The Best Socks and Shoes To Wear According to Our Experts

With foot health, don’t underestimate the power of choosing the right socks and shoes. Proper footwear enhances comfort and plays a vital role in preventing various foot conditions and injuries.

At Eazy Foot & Ankle in Los Angeles, California, our experts understand the importance of selecting the right socks and shoes for optimal foot health.

Here’s what you need to know when shopping for socks and shoes, courtesy of Albert Elhiani, DPM.

It all starts with a good pair of socks

Shoes protect your feet from the elements, dirt, and lacerations, but good foot health starts with a good pair of socks. Wearing the right socks can significantly impact your foot comfort and prevent issues like blisters, calluses, and sweaty feet.

Here are the top recommendations from Dr. Elhiani regarding socks:

Choose wool socks

Opt for socks made from moisture-wicking materials like wool. Cotton may be great for your bath towel because it pulls in water, but that’s not what you want for your socks. Wool socks, especially merino wool, repel water, meaning your feet stay drier.

Wool naturally has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce your risk of infections and pesky foot odors.

Wool isn’t very stretchy; you may see wool-blend socks with Lycra or acrylic. You can wear wool socks for running (even in the summer), hiking, or daily use. Wool keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Wear socks with cushioned soles

Look for socks with cushioned soles or extra padding in the heel and ball of the foot. This extra cushion helps with shock absorption and reduces pressure points while walking or running.

Choose socks with a seamless design

Choose socks with a seamless toe or flat seams to prevent friction and minimize the risk of blisters and irritation. This step is important whether you’re hiking, running around the block, or taking a slow leisurely walk with your dog.

Make sure they fit right

Ensure your socks fit properly, neither tight nor loose, to promote healthy blood circulation and prevent constriction. Your socks shouldn’t leave indents or marks when you take them off.

Shoes for optimal foot support

Now that we’ve narrowed the criteria for the best socks, let’s look at the best shoes for you. The “best shoes” aren’t a specific brand. Instead, the “best shoes” can provide support and stability to prevent foot problems like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and arch pain.

Here are the shoe recommendations from Dr. Elhiani:

Shoes with adequate arch support

Look for shoes that offer adequate arch support. A supportive arch helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the ligaments and tendons in your feet. If your feet hurt right after trying on a pair of shoes, take a pass.

Consider the toe box width

You should select shoes that allow your toes to spread like with a wide toe box. This extra room helps prevent conditions like bunions and hammertoes caused by excessive pressure on the toes. Avoid shoes that are too narrow, pointy, or cram your toes together. Pointy shoes may be en vogue, but it’s never worth sacrificing your foot health!

Shoes with cushioning

Shoes with ample cushioning in the soles provide shock absorption and reduce the impact on your feet, especially during high-impact activities like running or jumping.

Wear shoes made of breathable fabrics

Choose shoes made from breathable materials like mesh or leather to allow proper ventilation and prevent excessive sweating, which can lead to fungal infections. In general, fabrics like polyester, acrylic, and nylon aren’t as breathable, and in hot weather, this can mean your shoes trap odors and bacteria.

Always get your feet measured

Ensure your shoes fit properly, with enough room for your toes to move freely. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, blisters, and other foot issues. Always try your shoes on before purchasing since one size in Brand A doesn’t necessarily mean the same size in Brand B will fit you.

Beyond the shoes: get comprehensive care for your feet

At Eazy Foot & Ankle, our experts, led by Dr. Albert Elhiani DPM, emphasize the importance of choosing the right socks and shoes for maintaining healthy feet. Remember, investing in the right socks and shoes is an investment in your foot health, so make informed choices and prioritize the long-term health of your feet.

If foot issues arise 一 even if you wear the right socks and shoes 一 remember, we’re just a call or click away. Ready to visit us here in the Pico Robertson area of Los Angeles, California? You can schedule an appointment online or call us at 424-375-6348.