2017 Winter Boot Guide
Will you be shopping for a new pair of boots this winter or giving a pair as a gift? Winter boots are seldom in good condition after a full season of use and are best replaced annually. Here are some tips for a successful purchase from podiatrist Dr. James M. McKee.
- Shop at a store that offers professional fitting. If it’s been more than a year since your feet were professionally measured, it’s time to get them checked. Foot size can change with age, pregnancy, even season. Go late in the day, when feet are typically a bit more swollen and at their largest. Bring the socks you’ll be wearing with the boots to the store. if you have orthotics, bring those, too.
- Shop for comfort and safety. Winter boots are not the place to make your fashion statement. Skip the pointy toes, which can lead to ingrown toenails, and high heels, which are a frequent cause of foot and ankle injuries.
- Choose boots with rubber soles and wide treads with deep grooves. This will provide the best traction and keep you safe from falls. Avoid rigid soles which prohibit natural movement and smooth soles which can be slippery when wet.
- Keep feet warm and dry by selecting an insulated, waterproof pair of boots that are fully lined and allow plenty of room for thick, wool socks. Boots made of natural materials such as leather will allow for airflow to keep the feet dry and prevent fungal infections.
- Ignore any advice from the salesperson about how the boots will stretch with use or that they need time to break in. Any new shoes should be comfortable as soon as you put them on your feet. If they’re not, try another pair.
If foot or ankle discomfort is making it hard to wear winter boots, it’s time to see the podiatrist. Call Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment in our comfortable and modern Solomons Island office in Annapolis, MD. James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS will bring decades of experience and professionalism to your care, offering a thorough examination, accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plan, and ongoing follow up.