The leaves have begun to change and drop. Scarves, sweaters, and boots are pulled from storage to prepare for the next chilly day. But you realize as you look at your winter boots from last year that they actually were incredibly uncomfortable. Don't fret! Choosing boots wisely is a skill that grows through the years and with knowledge! Below, our professionals at Feet First Foot Care LLC have curated the most important tips to be on the prowl for when choosing winter boots wisely. 

How Much Room Should Be in The Toe of The Boot?

There is a lot of leeway with how much room you can have in the toe of your boot. You are fine as long as the flex point of your foot matches the flex point of the boot and your toes do not press against the boot. Your boots should fit slightly too tight when wearing your thickest socks and slightly loose with your thinnest socks. The boots will stretch to your lower extremities as needed if you don't feel any hot spots while walking.

How To Tell If Boots Are Too Big.

Your boots are too big if your foot moves forward in the boot and hits the front when walking downhill, if your heel moves more than ¼ of an inch, or if you have excess laces when you finish tying your boots.

How Should Boots Fit Around the Ankle?

Choosing winter boots wisely can be one of the most challenging parts. The fit of boots varies so much between thick and thin socks, but then you have to consider your ankles. Boots can be loose or snug around the ankle depending on how tall the boots are or how tightly you lace them. You do not want them to be uncomfortably tight. If they are new, don't worry, the leather will soften over time.

How Should Boots Fit Overall?

One way to test how much space you have in your boots is by placing your finger between the back of your ankle and the back of the boot. One finger should fit easily in the space, but the boots are probably too loose if you can fit two. If your toes feel jammed with a finger behind your ankle, they're most likely too tight.

Consequences Of Wearing the Wrong Boots.

You should always ensure that the shoes you wear fit you properly to avoid injuries and deformities such as bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. If you have any questions or concerns, call our Cromwell, Connecticut office at (860)-632-5499 to schedule an appointment with our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas.