What is Your Foot Type?

Your body is unique to you—and that includes your feet! Your foot type, underlying conditions, and activities combine to create distinctive needs for footwear. The shoes your friend or workout buddy loves may not be right for you. Avoid wasting money on shoes or inserts that don’t work for you, and ask your APMA-member podiatrist to guide you to footwear that supports your feet and your lifestyle. Learn why before you buy!

From there, select shoes that are appropriate for your activities—don’t play pickleball in a running shoe, for example.

You can learn more about the proper shoes for various activities at www.apma.org/playitsafe.

Seek your podiatric physician’s advice about shoes and/or inserts to accommodate foot and ankle conditions or injuries you may have.

The APMA Seal of Acceptance recognizes footwear found to promote good foot health. To earn the seal, each product is reviewed by a committee of APMA podiatric physicians. Ask your physician which Seal-Accepted shoes, socks, and insoles are the best options for your feet!

Know why before you buy. For more information, visit www.apma.org/why

Choosing an Athletic Shoe

Podiatrists typically recommend you begin selecting shoes based on your foot type. There are three basic foot types:

For feet with low arches (flat feet): Choose a supportive shoe that is designed for stability and motion control. These shoes help to correct for overpronation.

For feet with normal arches: Choose a shoe with equal amounts of stability and cushioning to help absorb shock.

For feet with high arches: Choose a cushioned shoe with a softer midsole and more flexibility. This will compensate for the poor shock absorption of a high-arched foot.