MD Podiatrist Explains How to Assess Sole Stiffness

According to podiatrist, Daniel Michaels, DPM, if you are looking for a stylish slip-on sneaker that has good support, you should “make sure the sole is stiff, which will help with keeping the arch of the foot stable and not allow for added heel and foot pressure.”
 
How can you assess the stiffness of your soles? “Hold the shoe and make sure it does not bend or twist easily, which would cause the lower leg tendons to overwork and strain,” says Dr. Michaels. His other advice: “Look for a shoe with a heel counter [a small plastic insert located along the back seam of the shoe] that is stiff so that it can support your ankle, prevent you from slipping out of the shoe, and keep your toes from gripping too hard, causing corns.”