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Shoe shopping with hypermobility is something that us zebras dread. It’s so hard to find a pair of shoes that fit, are comfortable, affordable, and look good.
Even after trying the shoes on and being happy with them, we wear them on a walk, and they suddenly become the most uncomfortable things on earth!
Thankfully, there are some brands of shoes that are good for hypermobility, such as Dr. Martens. But it’s still crucial that you follow these shoe shopping tips too.
Where to shop
You’ll be relieved when shoe shopping with hypermobility to find that most shoe stores can accommodate you. But it is important to find a store that has a wide variety of shoes to choose from. The staff also need to be knowledgeable and able to help you find the right fit.
Some specialty stores that sell shoes for hypermobility include:
- The Orthotic Group
- Foot Solutions
- A Step Ahead
- The Walking Company
- New Balance
UK stores that sell hypermobility shoes
- ShoeFit.uk – This is a specialty shoe store that caters to people with hypermobility and other foot problems. They have a wide selection of shoes from different brands, and their staff is trained to fit people with hypermobility.
- Vivobarefoot – This store sells barefoot shoes, which are designed to mimic the shape and function of the bare foot. Barefoot shoes can be a good option for people with hypermobility, as they can help to strengthen the foot muscles and improve joint stability.
- Ecco – This store sells a variety of shoes, including shoes that are designed for people with hypermobility. Ecco shoes are known for their high quality and comfort.
- Clarks – This store sells a wide variety of shoes, including shoes that are designed for people with hypermobility. Clarks shoes are also known for their high quality and comfort.
- Boots – This store sells a variety of shoes, including shoes that are designed for people with hypermobility. Boots also has a wide selection of shoes from different brands.
Avoid the internet when shopping for shoes
I love shopping on the internet and buy almost everything online. But it’s hard to find the right pair of shoes for your hypermobility on the net.
Firstly, there’s no option to try before you buy. You also can’t get your feet measured beforehand, and you won’t have an expert shoe fitter on hand to check that the shoes support your feet properly.
Another problem is that you’re more likely to keep (and wear!) a pair of shoes that you’ve ordered online, even when they don’t fit you properly, because you don’t want to go through the hassle of a return.
Finding the right size and width
It is important to find shoes that fit snugly but comfortably. Your shoes should not be too tight or too loose, as this can lead to injuries. It is also important to find shoes that are the right width for your feet. If your shoes are too narrow, they can constrict your circulation and cause foot pain. If your shoes are too wide, they may not provide enough support for your feet.
To find the right size and width of shoes, it is best to have your feet measured by a shoe salesperson. They can use a Brannock device to measure the length and width of your feet and recommend the correct size and width of shoes.
Trying on shoes
When trying on shoes, be sure to wear the same type of socks that you will normally wear with the shoes. This will help you to get a good fit. It is also important to try on shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are at their largest.
Here are some things to look for when trying on shoes:
- Make sure that there is enough room in the toe box for your toes to wiggle freely.
- Make sure that the heel of the shoe fits snugly but comfortably.
- Walk around in the shoes for a few minutes to make sure that they are comfortable and supportive.
Features to look for in shoes
When choosing shoes for hypermobility, it is important to look for shoes that have the following features:
- Arch support: Arch support helps to keep your arches from collapsing, which can help to prevent pain and injuries.
- Stability: Stability shoes help to control the movement of your feet and ankles, which can help to prevent injuries.
- Cushioning: Cushioning helps to absorb the impact of your steps, which can help to reduce pain and fatigue.
You may also want to consider shoes with the following features:
- Removable insoles: Removable insoles allow you to insert custom orthotics, if necessary.
- Wide width: Wide width shoes are a good option for people with wide feet.
- Rocker bottom: A rocker bottom helps to propel your foot forward as you walk, which can be helpful for people with hypermobility.
Other tips
- Replace your shoes regularly: Shoes typically wear out after about 300-500 miles of wear. It is important to replace your shoes regularly to ensure that they are providing the support and cushioning that your feet need.
- Break in new shoes gradually: When you get new shoes, it is important to break them in gradually by wearing them for short periods of time at first. This will help to prevent blisters and other foot problems.
- Listen to your feet: If your feet hurt, take your shoes off and rest them. It is important to listen to your feet and not push yourself too hard, especially when you are first breaking in new shoes.
By following these tips, you can be sure that shoe shopping with hypermobility is a success. Plus, you’ll find the right shoes for your hypermobility that help to support your joints and prevent injuries.
