by Bridget Webber

Created on: January 22, 2009

If the way that you shop for shoes is anything like how the average man does then you may well be making some unwise decisions. Most men see a pair of shoes that they like the look of, check the size on the bottom of them, purchase them and then rush out of the shoe shop pleased with their new purchase. That is until they actually attempt to wear them and discover how uncomfortable they are. Either that or they put them on, happy as Larry, only to be told by a more discerning female that they just don't match any clothing that they own.

The way to shop for shoes is to first have an agenda before you hit the high-street. Understand what type of shoes you will be looking for. Are they shoes to wear to a wedding? To a party? To relax in? The answers to those questions should have a strong bearing on the kind of shoes that you choose.

The next thing to do is to put on clean black socks. This is because you will be trying shoes on. Black is a good background color to help you get a good idea about how a pair of shoes really look, and obviously you want the socks to be clean and hopefully hole free, because you will be in a public place.

When you find a shoe shop stop and consider whether you really know the proper size and shape of your feet. The assistant will be happy to help you use one of their measuring gadgets to finally ascertain whether you have a high instep or a wide foot. It helps to know these things as the actual size alone isn't really enough if you want to find very comfortable shoes that will be supportive for your feet.

When glancing around the shoe racks think about color as well as style. You want the shoes that you buy to suit your personality and your wardrobe. There is just no point in purchasing bright yellow sneakers if you are a business man who never goes for a run in the dark.

When you are ready to try shoes on be sure to walk up and down the shop in them to find out how they feel as you move about. Bend and stretch in them to see if the backs of them ride up and down on your foot heels, or remain firmly in place as they should.

As you pace up and down look down at the shoes. Do they gape at the sides as you walk? If so then they are not a good fit and you need to try a pair that is more narrow across the width.

While making your choice think also about how the shoes are fastened, unless they are slip on. Do they have laces? Side zips? Or buckles? If so will you be happy to deal with those on a day to day basis? Or will they end up getting on your nerves?

Finally, think about the material that the shoes are made from. If they are made from natural materials then they will be more likely to mould themselves comfortably to the shape of your feet. If they are made from man made materials then they may be far cheaper. They may also make you feet a little smelly in hot, damp conditions.

If after reading the above you are thinking that you would rather just grab a pair of shoes off the rack and take your chances then think again. Remember that once you have begun shopping the right way for shoes your feet will be so happy. You will end up saving money by not purchasing the wrong shoes all of the time and you will walk better because your shoes will fit you.

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