In a private hospital once lamented that finding the perfect shoes for You is more demanding than looking for a partner. besides working long shifts, you also spend hours on your feet. Here are some tips that can set you off for a comfortable walk down the wards. 1. Know your feet Take a good look at your feet. Measure both feet while standing. There will be a slight difference in the size of one foot over the other. Use the measurement of the larger foot when you shop. Do you have wide feet or flat arches? Or do you have any special foot conditions? If so, you might want to look at orthotic insoles to supplement the chosen shoes. The right insole comes with interchangeable arch supports for a good custom fit. Choose the right fit for your feet. Make no compromise; go for the right size. Some people go for a smaller size just because they like the design and their size is not available. 2. Go for comfort The shape of the shoes should fit the natural contours of your feet. What type of footbed best contours to the shape of your feet? Does the insole have enough cushion in the heel? Is the padding too thick or harsh? Choose those that include shock absorbent technologies, such as air cushioning. Go for good quality material and take a few test strides in that pair before you buy. 3. Go for something light A good pair of shoes should be light but not flimsy. Most shoes designed specifically for active people are made from modern lightweight materials. These are durable too. Can you imagine having to drag your feet with shoes that weigh you down? Each time you lift your feet, you are actually adding on to the weight of your shoes on the feet. You definitely would not want shoes that restrict your mobility and slow you down. 4. Get shoes with a good grip Opt for shoes with high slip resistance. This is a must-have. Your footwear should be hardy and able to take to all sorts of surfaces. Make sure your shoes meet slip resistance standards. Most anti-slip shoes are silent. You can’t afford to have a pair that constantly announces your arrival with that disturbing ‘clock’ sound. 5. Be practical – choose shoes that can hold up stains In a healthcare environment, occasional spills and splashes are inevitable. Make sure your shoes are washable and that they do not shrink with each wash. Shoes designed for nurses in mind come with washing instructions. As a nurse, you need to consider hygiene issues too. 6. Opt for antistatic soles It is wise to choose shoes with antistatic soles. Antistatic shoes help to dissipate the accumulation of static electricity from the body, while providing a reasonable level of resistance to electrical hazards from live circuits. 7. Ensure protection for feet Nurses can be exposed to heavy or sharp objects, and this may pose a risk. It may be helpful to consider toe caps which are usually made from steel or aluminium. The steel would increase the weight of your footwear but if you get very light shoes, strong toe caps will not be a burden to your feet. Modern safety shoes for people in healthcare settings have this built-in shield, and they comply with appropriate standards. 8. Style does matter, too Health care professional shoes can be just as soft and stylish. With careful selection, you should be able to get yourself comfortable and fashionable shoes. It will not only protect your feet but also protect your savings as a good pair will beat the wear and tear of constant walking over an extended period of time. Finally, the perfect fit will always give you that special magic. Source
