With the holidays right around the corner now’s the time to take the proper steps to ensure that you make it through the season merry and healthy.  And by “proper steps” we’re talking about wearing the right shoes when you’re out-and-about getting your gift list checked off.  Most of us pay very little attention to the type of shoes we wear, usually making our buying decisions on style rather than substance.  Here are a few tips to consider the next time you go shoe shopping, which should be the first item on your list:

Sneakers should be purchased from a running shoe store.  These specialty stores have the qualified staff to help you make an informed buying decision.  Depending on your foot type a particular model of sneaker will work better to give you the best fit and functionality.  Buying a pair of sneakers from a department store is like buying an engagement ring from a pawn shop: you don’t know what you’re getting and you’re probably going to pay for it down the road!

Boots are not designed for prolonged periods of walking.  With the weather turning colder and snowier it’s easy to reach for a trusted pair of boots to keep your feet toasty and dry.  This is fine as long as you don’t wear them while being on your feet for hours shopping.  You’re better off wearing your boots until you arrive at your destination then putting on a pair of sneakers until you’re finished spending more time and money than you planned.

Most women’s footwear is not feet-friendly.  There’s a reason your feet hurt during or after wearing those cute pair of shoes you picked up on sale: they are not good for you!  If a shoe has a high heel, a closed toe box, or a strap on the back it usually is going to cause problems, especially if you have a certain foot type e.g. flat feet, high arches.  So leave those shoes for special occasions or when you know you’re going to be off your feet.

Ignoring pain in your feet can lead to bigger problems.  The feet are the foundation of the entire musculoskeletal system.  Not only does pain in your feet mean that there’s tissue damage in that area but compensation for the pain will lead to additional problems in other bones, joints and muscles.  That’s why it’s important to take care of your feet by choosing the proper footwear and to seek professional medical care if the pain continues to persist.