The Right Shoes For Your Age

Not a great thought is it – ageing bodies! But once over the age of 35 it is unfortunately our reality. The shoes we wear are of huge importance in avoiding bunion formation, plantar fasciitis, back issues and knee pain... The good news is that middle aged women of the present day have better feet than our parent's did at this age! Thanks to a greater awareness of shoe comfort and foot health. 

Here are a few key factors to keep in mind when choosing a new pair of shoes:

You cannot be absolutely flat

An absolutely flat sole is a recipe for disaster! All feet need a slight elevation to take the pressure of your lower back when standing. A reputable factory will do their research and give their consumers a footbed that provides support, comfort, a little bit of elevation and an arch support. The pitch in our summer pump (Dapper) is perfect for all day standing and walking...

The Oooh factor

Nobody wants to stand on a hard footbed, no matter how pretty the shoes are! Look for a shoe that gives support, while still giving a soft feeling underfoot, and flexibility when you walk. If your budget allows it, a leather footbed is a great advantage as your foot will not get hot and sweaty on a warm day - so no slidy feet, or curling up your toes as you walk.

The age of bunions

Although mostly hereditary, bunions are exacerbated by narrow fitting shoes and steep heels (a heel with an incorrect pitch). Unfortunately from the age of 30 years onwards is when they start making themselves visible on your once-beautiful foot profile! A padded footbed is vital in avoiding unnecessary pain. Also make sure that you have some degree of "wiggle room" for your toes, and that the upper doesn't rub unnecessarily against your bunion. But it's not all doom and gloom and geriatric footwear. We have had a lot of women with bunion issues find success with this style...

Enough support

A supportive upper that holds the foot snuggly and securely whilst walking is essential. Sufficient arch support (that builds up the foot slightly in the arch area) is also very important, especially for individuals who suffer from painful feet, achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. Remember as well that a rubberised or non-slip bottom sole is golden! It will add to the overall comfort of the shoe and ensure that you don't find yourself slipping on a wet or shiny surface.

Each pair of Pesso's are handmade with the end user in mind. We aim to deliver a balanced range of well-made footwear with comfort at the forefront, while still encompassing a modern sense of style.

Author - Lou Holding