Safety Toes - Choosing the best fit for you

While there are many different work boot types, there are also a variety of different safety toes in those boots. Beyond the traditional steel toe, there are plastic composite toes as well as aluminum and titanium alloys. So what is the difference between all of these different options and which one is best for you? Lets take a look at each one:

Aluminum Toe


The aluminum toe is a type of work boot safety toe and meets and/or exceeds the ASTM standards for compression and impact testing of I-75/C-75. The aluminum toe is important in the workplace because it protects the foot from sharp or heavy objects that might fall onto the foot while at work. While many safety toe shoes are traditionally made with a steel toe, it is beneficial to use aluminum instead of steel because aluminum is lighter. Aluminum also makes it more comfortable to move around in the boot while maintaining necessary safety standards.

Rogan's Shoes models that carry the aluminum toe include:

Men's: Carolina 9508 and 9559, Red Wing 6707
Women's: Skechers 76348

Titanium Toe


Just like the aluminum toe, the titanium is known for providing ASTM rated safety toes, but with a much lighter weight. Timberland has profected the titanium alloy by implementing it into its Titan models (hence the name).

Rogan's Shoes models that carry the titanium toe include:

Men's: Timberland
26063, 40044, 22082, 26078, 50506, 47019
Women's: Timberland 26388

Composite Toe


Boots featuring a composite toe have an insert that can be comprised of kevlar, carbon fiber, and plastic, making the boot lighter than a typical steel toe. Even though the toe is made with all of these different materials, composite toe styles still do comply with ANSI/ASTM safety requirements. Materials in a composite boot are also non-metallic and non-magnetic. Because of this, workers who frequently pass through metal detectors will do better with a composite toe. Finally, anyone working outdoors during winter may want to consider a composite toe because the plastic material does not retain the cold like a metal steel toe will.

Rogan's Shoes models that carry the composite toe include:

5520, Wolverine 2372 and 3805 (insulated), Timberland 53534, Converse 4777
Women's: Converse C446, Nautilus 1361 and 210

*All of these are available at Rogan's Shoes along with many many more styles!!!

Visit http://www.rogansshoes.com/ or http://www.rogansworkboots.com/ to see our entire stock of safety toe boots and shoes.

Extend the Life of Safety Shoes with Insoles

You can extend the life and comfort of safety shoes with replacement insoles. Most insoles of shoes are removable and can be taken out easily.

Once your safety shoes are worn for 6 months or more you probably have compacted and wore down the original insoles in your boots. You can restore comfort and support to the shoe or boot with purchasing new insoles.

There are a large number of replacement type insoles on the market. Most offer additional arch support and added cushioning. Spenco is a good choice and makes a number of different insoles.

How To Fit Safety Shoes

Here is a guide on how to fit safety shoes and boots. Some very good information to make sure you get a good fit and comfort.

Before You Try the Boot On

1.) The best time to buy boots is in the afternoon or early evening when the foot is at its largest.
2.) Bring the socks you plan on wearing with you when you try on boots.
3.) Make your decision based on fit more than style.
4.) Get your foot measured. You need to know the correct length and width to get a proper fit.
5.) One foot is often larger than the other - size for the larger foot (get both feet measured).

When You Try the Boot On

1.) Try the boot on, push your toes to the front until they touch, your index finger should fit in behind your foot.
2.) Make sure that the ball (the area of protrusion at the base of the big toe) of your foot fits well at the widest part of the shoe.
3.) Steel toe boots need to be fit about a half size larger than normal footwear. Since there is a steel toe cap there is no stretch in the toe box area. You do not want your toes to the end of the boot!
4.) Lace the boot up, look at the laces, is there a bit of a bulge in the middle? There should be. If the laces progressively narrow the boot is to big or two wide.



5.) Are there any areas of the boot, which seem to be tight on the foot? Snug is good, tight is bad! Don't expect steel toe footwear to stretch to fit your feet. If it does not feel new, it probably will not later.
6.) Walk around the store and get a feel for how the boots feel. You should keep the boots on your feet for about 15 minutes. Flex the boots to make sure they bend in the correct place and do not dig into your foot. How much room is behind the foot? It should be close to the width of the finger. Are there any areas of irritation?
7.) If the boot does not fit comfortably and provide enough room to wiggle the toes then try another model. Size may vary between brands and styles, rely on fit not the size on the box. Footwear may even vary slightly within the same style.

In Conclusion
Many of the problems with fitting safety footwear result from poor fitting! Take the time to get your foot measured and find a quality boot that fits your foot with comfort.

We hope this helps you get a good fit with your safety boots. If you have any other questions please feel free to Ask The ShoePro.

Skechers Shape-Ups

Check out the video on Skechers Shape Ups. They really do work!

Avi-Motion Exercise Shoe

Exercise shoes are in vogue. New models are coming out from a number of different manufacturers. One we just received is the Avi-Motion from Avia. And the feed back from our customers has been great. The fit and comfort is very good and the double rocker sole really seems to work the muscles in the legs and buttocks. The other great selling point is the price $84.99 about $15-$20 less than other brands. So if you want to try a pair of the Avi-Motion shoes click on the image below.
Features:
The iburn double rocker difference.

Avia Leaf Spring Archrocker™
Technology creates a Double-Rocker Sole.

Negative Heel Engineering

Promotes muscle activation and mimics sand-like walking.

Low density forefoot PU pod

Engages greater muscle activity during toe off that mimics sand-like walking.

Performance AIR MESH

For maximum breathability.

Light Weight

Rock & Tone!

Give your walking regimen an extra boost of energy and fashionable flair with rock&tone! The 1442's cutting-edge rocker bottom tones your muscles and burns extra calories while you walk, and the attractive and stylish synthetic and mesh upper is based on the ever-popular 442 lifestyle shoe. NB's rock&tone shoe helps you get fit and fabulous as you go through your day--you can even feel it working! Click below to check them out.

Womens New Balance 1442sb

Here is a review of the shoe from Blogfully:
"I personally enjoyed the Rock and Tone Shoes by New Balance (a bunch). From the second I slipped my foot in each shoe I fell in love. There was a noticeable difference between these and other shoes I’ve worn in the past. The comfort level was remarkable and the arch; the high arch gave me the support I’d been missing from my other brands. I actually didn’t want to take them off at the end of the day. I loved how they made me feel. I loved that my feet felt no aches, no pains and most importantly, no discomfort. Only time will tell on the calorie burning. I intend to use them all the time so I’m hoping to see results in the future. For now, I’ll just go on how I felt on my very first day. It was a great feeling and I can’t wait to see where these shoes will take me."

Avi-Motion "New Exercise Shoe From Avia"

Exercise shoes are in vogue. New models are coming out from a number of different manufacturers. One we just received is the Avi-Motion from Avia. And the feed back from our customers has been great. The fit and comfort is very good and the double rocker sole really seems to work the muscles in the legs and buttocks. The other great selling point is the price $84.99 about $15-$20 less than other brands. So if you want to try a pair of the Avi-Motion shoes click on the image below.
Features:
The iburn double rocker difference.

Avia Leaf Spring Archrocker™
Technology creates a Double-Rocker Sole.

Negative Heel Engineering

Promotes muscle activation and mimics sand-like walking.

Low density forefoot PU pod

Engages greater muscle activity during toe off that mimics sand-like walking.

Performance AIR MESH

For maximum breathability.

Light Weight

Athletic Shoes Made In The USA!

Are there any athletic shoes made in the USA any more?
It does not seem like it. But there are still a couple that are made in the United States. We can thank New Balance for it's commitment to American workers.
New Balance has five American facilities:
Boston, MA
Lawrence, MA
Norway, ME
Norridgewock, ME
Skowhegan, ME
They produce a total of about 30,000 pair of shoes a day!
New Balance has proven that high quality athletic footwear can be made in America. Here are four examples of that quality and craftsmanship that have been become synonymous with the company.


Heritage Running Shoe 993, that runners have relied on for years. By using  Adzorb DTS and an Acteva midsole, it provides a stable platform and smooth transition, while delivering comfort  and performance.

The 1123 is a high mileage trainer for the athlete who requires maximum motion control and cushioning. It features a multi-density foot bed and full length Adzorb and Rollbar.

The 811 fitness walker. A performance walking shoe for those who need additional stability of the Rollbar system.
Mens 811:

Womens 811:

The industry leading  motion control walking shoe 926. This motion control walker offers superior comfort technology the Rollbar, Phantom Liner, Adsorb SBS and lightening dry lining.

New Balance has proven that high quality athletic footwear can be produced in America. So next time you go to buy an athletic shoe look for a New Balance that has the hang tag or box sticker that says made in America!

Different Types of Running Shoes - What One Do I Need? Cushioning

Go in to any shoe store and you will see the amazing selection of running shoes available to the consumer. With so many types of running shoes out there, it's hard to know which one you may need. So to make it easier, I have split them into 3 main groups; Cushioning, Motion Control, and Stability. This article will concentrate on Cushioning Shoes. I will talk about their construction and also what kind of traits you may have that would indicate you may need a cushioning shoe.

Cushion shoes are the most flexible of running shoes, compared to motion control and stability control ones. Cushioning shoes are built on a last that is curved inward. A runner with a normal to high arch and who's foot rolls towards the outside (under pronation) would need this type of running shoe. So by having a inward curving last the runner is allowed a natural motion (natural pronation) that they would not normally have. A cushioning shoe will allow the runner to gain more cushioning with their gait (motion of walking) by creating a natural pronation as they run.

Having a natural pronation absorbs shock that the legs would normally take. These shoes have nylon uppers and their soles are made entirely of phylon and/or blown EVA. Some may also have a plastic web underneath the arch of the shoe. There are many different levels of flexibility, and degrees of cushioning available to fit the runner's needs. Having a knowledgeable sales person measure and properly fit you is always recommended. By choosing the right shoe you will have a smoother and more enjoyable run, and also have less chance for injuries.

Shoes and feet are what Rogans Shoes know. For the best customer service from a family owned shoe company visit http://rogansshoes.com./

Here are some of our favorite Cushion shoes:
Asics Gel Cumulus 11

Nike Air Pegasus 25

Saucony Progrid Ride 2

Different Types of Running Shoes - Stability Shoes

Go into any shoe store and you will see the amazing selection of running shoes available to the consumer. With so many types of running shoes out there, it's hard to know which one you may need. So to make it easier, I have split them into 3 main groups; Cushioning, Motion Control, and Stability. This article will concentrate on Motion Control Shoes. I will talk about their construction and also what kind of traits you may have that would indicate you may need this type of shoe.

Motion Control shoes are a special type of running shoe that needs some special attention. People who need this type of shoe make up about 12% of the running population. If you switch the words of motion control around, it explains the shoe, "Controls Motion."

Motion control shoes are made for runners that have flat arches or are a heavier build (180+lbs) and need extra control and durability. These runners have lost the natural cushioning that the gait roll provides with a runner's stride. They are the most rigid of the running shoes and limit the inward rolling of the foot and ankle. The inward motion of the foot is called over-pronation. These special shoes are built on a straight last and usually have a medial post for extra support.

To figure out if you need a motion control shoe, you can do a wet towel or brown bag test. To do this, you step in water the place your foot on the towel or brown paper bag. If your foot looks square in shape, then you have a flat arch. If you have curvature in the arch area then you need a neutral or stability shoe. Another indicator is the classic double ankle look in which there is another bump or swelling under the ankle bone. This usually is the result of ligaments which are loose which inhibits the ankle and foot to support the roll, causing over-pronation.

Traditionally people with orthotics have been told to use motion control shoes. The orthotics give the support of motion control shoes. Putting orthotics in this type of shoe is referred to as "doubling up." For someone smaller or lighter in weight, this might be too much support. A bigger, heavier person can still get a natural roll by doubling up. As long as you get fitted by a professional, doubling up should not be a problem.

Here are a couple of Stability Shoes:

Shoes and feet are what Rogans Shoes know. For the best customer service from a family owned shoe company visit http://rogansshoes.com.

Bunions Symptoms and Treatment

A bunion is a type of structural deformity which is most generally associated with the joint between the big toe and the rest of the foot (metatarsal joint). This deformity is usually formed by some enlarge tissue or a bone mass. The mass tends to force the big toe to turn in toward the space occupied by the other toes.

It is often recognized by redness and swelling or just general discomfort of the joint. It is a malady which is most often passed on through genetics or from an arthritic deterioration of the metatarsal joint (see pictures below). A person may also develop this issue as their foot becomes more flat footed which tends to put more strain on the big toe in general. It is often thought that ill fitting shoes may cause bunions but in reality it may actually just speed up the process.

There are many different ways to treat a bunion but you must remember that they are just that, a treatment, not a cure. There are bunion pads to provide cushioning for the joint; orthodics try to take the pressure off of the joint; toe spacers to try to straighten the joint along with a host of other remedies. Along with these treatments, regular icing of the joint also helps.

The only true corrective procedure would be surgery by a trained podiatrist. However, surgery is not always 100% effective. Typically this is only done in cases of severe deformity or discomfort. To surgically repair the joint, the doctor will either remove the bony mass or structurally realign the toe with the metatarsal joint. Recovery is normally 6-8 weeks accompanied with crutches and potentially a walking boot.

Shoes and feet are what we know. For the best customer service from a family owned shoe company www.rogansshoes.com

Share
|

Do Skechers Shape Ups Really Work?

The newest trend in fitness shoes are shoes that help you exercise by just wearing the shoes. Is this really possible? We will explore this and see if Skechers Shape Ups really do tone you up as you walk in them.
I work in retail and we have sold hundreds and hundreds of these shoes. So far we have customers coming back and telling us they love the shoes. They say besides being very comfortable they can feel they working of the muscles in their legs and buttocks. We have had quite a few people come back and purchase a second pair because the first ones worked so GOOD!
In my opinion from selling these for a few months I would say they appear to work as advertised. How much they actually Shape Up your body that is debatable. But customers who buy them seem to love them. Below I have included some customers testimonials that were from the Skechers web site. Also there are some pictures of the shoes below and a video that tells about the Shape Ups.

"I just got this pair yesterday. I suffer from Plantar fascitis and when I wear the shape ups my pain is immediately gone. I was able to walk for over five hours with no pain afterwards. This morning no new pains and my feet didn't hurt when I woke up. I am looking to purchase a pair for my son and another for myself. I've even got my father who NEVER wears Athlete shoes and walks every night interested."

"I'm 45 yrs old and my mom is 67 yrs old. We both bought a pair and we both love them. My mom is enjoying walking her dog all over town again. She has less back and leg pain and has more energy. After I had an ACL injury it was painful to run on my treadmill. Now I'm back working out every night without being sore the next morning. Both of us are looking our best in a very long time."

"As I never workout (but am on my feet walking back & forth all day at work) I ordered the Sketchers shapeups-fitness junkie so I wouldn't have to set foot in a gym. I only wear them every other day cause, who worksout every day. I have only worn them 2 days and already see a difference in my calves, thighs, buttocks, waist. My pants fit different! What a great idea for those of us that do not take the time to hit yhe gym! Thanks Sketchers, you had me in mind when you designed these shoes. Great looking shoe too!"

Skechers Shape Ups Pictures:

Check out the video:

Fitting Kids Shoes Tips

Getting your kids fit in the correct size and shoes can be a real challenge. First of all trying to get the kids to co-operate can be a challenge. Once you get them ready to try on shoes here are some tips to make sure you get as good fit.

1. Get their foot measured. A Brannock device is used to measure feet. A special kids version is used to measure kids feet. Have them place there foot one the device with their heel all the way to the back (use left or right foot you can turn the device around to to adjust for either foot). Have your child stand up on the device. Move the adjustment for the ball of the foot to match the ball of the foot (the bump on the outside of the foot near the base of the big toe). You now can look where their toes go on the device to find the length also check the length of the ball on the left. Now you can determine the proper length. Let's say the length said 12 and ball said 13. I would start trying on 12.5. This is just a guide to start since all shoes fit different. Before you have your son or daughter take their foot off the device you need to also look at the width of the foot. There is a little slider on the right slide this slides in to the out side of the foot. This will give you a width. This is displayed in a letter width. A-EEE. A being very narrow and EEE being very wide. The C-D width would be a average. If possible get a sales clerk to help you it will make the process easier. Ask questions and watch so that next time you can do it yourself.

2. Now it is time to try on some shoes. Remember we measured their feet and received an estimated size. I say this because all shoes fit different and you may wear different sizes in different styles of shoes. Pick out a couple pair to try on (I suggest to try on multiple shoes). Once you have the shoe on your son or daughter have them stand up now we need to see where their toes are in the shoe. Press down on the front of the shoe and see where the end of their longest toe is (this may not be the big toe). You should have about the width of your thumb from the end of the toe to the end of the shoe. This may seem like a lot but kids grow in spurts and fitting a shoe smaller could result in the child out growing the shoe prematurely. If your son or daughter have narrow feet you may not be able to have this much space at the end of the shoe. You may have to fit them a little smaller to compensate for their narrow feet. Also is your child has wide feet you may need to go a little longer this will give them a little more width in the shoe. Not many kids shoes come in widths. Ask the clerk to show you what does come in wide or narrow widths and try them but your selection will be limited.

3. The next step after making sure the length of the shoe is good is to make sure the heel of the shoe does not slip. have your son or daughter sit down and take their foot with the shoe on and pull on the heel to make sure there is no slipping. Now have them take a stroll around the store and ask them if there is any part of the shoe that rubs or is to tight. The shoes should feel good before you leave the store! If you are not 100% sure of the fit take them home and have your son or daughter wear them around the house for a while to make sure they are comfortable before wearing them outside.
My final advice would be to go to a store where there is plenty of selection kids can be picky and having a good selection will help ensure that you get a pair that fits GOOD. Also make sure you go where their are clerks to measure your kids feet and help you fit the shoes correctly. You can use some of these tips to assist you in making sure the proper steps are taken to ensure a good fit. If you have any comments please post and sign up to follow my blog.
Thank you.

Share

How to Fit Running Shoes!

The Start
It is very important to make sure your running shoes fit correctly. You will be investing a fair amount of money in your shoes so you need to make sure they fit correct. Most people fit their running shoes too small! Please read this article and if you have any questions please comment and I will answer all questions.

1.) Make sure you try on all styles of running shoes (even within the same brand)
Sizing can vary more than you think. It is not uncommon to see a difference of a whole size. Make sure you have at least a quarter of an inch of room from the end of your longest toe (may not be your big toe). Having room in the toe box is essential for comfort in shoes that you will be putting lots of miles on! Try both shoes on and walk and run a little in the store. Make sure there are no areas rubbing or pinching. Try multiple brands and styles to find the running shoe that fits your foot. Below are some more technical details for fitting specific types of running shoes and specific arch types.

2.) Wet Test for Arch Type:
1. Pour a thin layer of water in a shallow pan.

2. Wet the sole of your foot in the pan.

3. Step onto a shopping bag or a piece of heavy paper.

4. Step off and look down at the mark on the bag or paper.

3.) Determine Your Arch Type
Normal Arch (medium)
If you see about half of your arch, you have the most common foot type and are considered a normal pronator. Contrary to popular belief, pronation is a good thing. When the arch collapses inward, this "pronation" absorbs shock. As a normal pronator, you can wear just about any shoe, but may be best suited to a stability shoe that provides moderate arch support (or medial stability). Lightweight runners with normal arches may prefer neutral-cushioned shoes without any added support.

Flat Arch (low)
If you see almost your entire footprint, you have a flat foot, which means you're probably an over pronator. That is, a micro-second after foot strike, your arch collapses inward too much, resulting in excessive foot motion and increasing your risk of injuries. You need either stability shoes, which employ devices such as dual-density mid-soles and supportive "posts" to reduce pronation and are best for mild to moderate over pronators, or motion-control shoes, which have firmer support devices and are best for severe over pronators, as well as tall, heavy (over 165 pounds), or bow-legged runners.

High Arch
If you see just your heel, the ball of your foot, and a thin line on the outside of your foot, you have a high arch, the least common foot type. This means you're likely an under pronator, or supinator, which can result in too much shock traveling up your legs, since your arch doesn't collapse enough to absorb it. Under pronators are best suited to neutral-cushioned shoes because they need a softer midsole to encourage pronation. It's vital that an under pronator's shoes have no added stability devices to reduce or control pronation, the way a stability or motion-control shoe would.
Shoe Types:
 Cushioning Shoes (neutral): A Neutral Cushioning shoe is best for runners with a high arch who do not pronate effectively. These shoes do not have medial supports but are more concerned with mid-sole cushioning. The mid-sole will provide the extra shock absorption that the lack of pronation is missing. Along with a runner who does not over pronate, Neutral Cushioned shoes also work well for mid-foot and forefoot strikers.

4.) Determine Your Shoe Type
Cushioning Shoes (neutral)
A Neutral Cushioning shoe is best for runners with a high arch who do not pronate effectively. These shoes do not have medial supports but are more concerned with mid-sole cushioning. The mid-sole will provide the extra shock absorption that the lack of pronation is missing. Along with a runner who does not over pronate, Neutral Cushioned shoes also work well for mid-foot and forefoot strikers.

Asics 2140

Stability Shoes
Stability shoes are for runners who have normal or medium arches who are mild to moderate over pronators. These shoes have some medial support and good mid-sole cushioning. Because normal or medium arches are the most common foot type, most runners will need Stability shoes.

New Balance MR769

Motion Control Shoes
Motion Control shoes are for runners who generally have a low or flat arch and are moderate to severe over pronators. These shoes employ extra support devices on the medial side to slow excessive pronation and tend to have wider and flatter outsoles. Heavier runners who need extra support and durability may also want Motion Control shoes.

Brooks Beast

Trail Shoes
Trail shoes are for runners who desire better traction and durability for off road runs. These shoes tend to be more weather and water resistant. They also have a little stiffer construction for better stability on uneven terrain. Trail shoes can be neutral, motion control, or stability shoes.

Saucony Grid Excursion TR2

More tips
1.) Focus on the ride. Once you know the type of shoe you need, whether motion-control or stability, then you need to be sure there is no pinching, or a seam that is pressing against your foot. Finally, we recommend people run or walk in the shoe and really focus on the ride, or how the shoe feels from the point when the heel hits the ground to when the toe lifts off it.



2.)Line up the ball. When you try your shoe on, the ball of your foot (the widest part) should line up exactly with the widest part of the shoe. If that fit is right, everything else should line up--from the toes to the heel.

3.) As for width, when you're standing in the shoe, your foot should rest gently against the sides of the shoe, rather than jamming up against them or not touching at all.

4.) Be sure your toes aren't being pinched from the side. Room in the toe box is essential in good fit for running shoes. Too many people fit their running shoes too SMALL! 
Do not go by your regular size! Running shoes tend to fit small, Some brands can fit up to a size or more small in length. If ordering online call and ask how the shoe fits. Get advice from customer service.

If you have any questions or additional information about fit please comment. Thank you.

Walking Shoes... What Makes a Good Walking Shoe?

What makes a good walking shoe? Below we detail what makes for a good walking shoe with some of our favorite shoes for walking.

There are two ways to go when purchasing new walking shoes. One would be to buy regular walking shoes. They are designed for the forward walking motion and are light weight. The problem with so called "walking shoe"s is they lack cushioning and support that can be found in other shoes. Specifically RUNNING SHOES. Running shoes make great walking shoes. They are light weight, they have superior cushioning, and plenty of support. So next time you go looking for walking shoes try on some running shoes and compare the features and comfort. I think you will see what we are talking about. Here are a few of our favorite styles to try:

Remember Rogans Shoes knows shoes and service visit us @ www.rogansshoes.com 

Should I get my Foot measured?

The one common mistake most people make is not getting their foot measured on an regular basis. This will help you make sure that your shoes fit properly and will help eliminate fitting mistakes that cost you comfort and money. The next time you go to a shoe store ask to get your both of your feet measured. Yes both feet! No one has an exact matched pair of feet. Most people have one foot that is a little larger than the other. It is very important to find out which foot is larger and always make sure you fit your shoes properly for the larger foot. The device you measure feet with is called a Brannock. See image below. There are Brannock's for Men, Women, and Kids.

Make sure they measure the length of your feet and the length of the ball of your foot. Both of these will determine the size you wear. If your length is a 10 and the ball measures a 11 you may try on size 10.5 or 11. If the ball fits incorrect the shoe may flex in the wrong spot and you will not get the proper comfort. Also if the length is to long or short the fit will also be compromised. Get your feet measured by a person who knows how to measure feet!

Once you have your unique feet measured, you can look for the right fitting shoes. Here are some more tips for finding shoes that will fit properly:

    * Sizes vary among shoe brands and styles. Don't select shoes just by the size marked inside the shoe. Judge the shoe by how it fits on your foot. Make sure you select a shoe that conforms as nearly as possible to the shape of your foot.
    * Stand during the fitting process and check that there is adequate space (3/8" to 1/2") for your longest toe at the end of each shoe.
    * Make sure that the ball of your foot fits snugly, but not too tightly, into the widest part (ball pocket) of the shoe.
    * Don't purchase shoes that feel too tight or short, expecting them to "stretch" to fit. Most modern shoes are designed for rigid support, and they will not stretch to conform to your feet. If your shoes are too short, they will always be too short; shoes do not stretch lengthwise. There's a difference between a "snug", comfortable fit and a "tight", uncomfortable fit.
    * Your heel should fit comfortably in the shoe with a minimum amount of slippage.
    * Walking on carpeting and a hard indoor surface will help you to decide whether a specific size and style of shoes fits and feels right. Fashionable shoes can be comfortable!

If you have any comments please post them. Thank you. ShoePro