Comfortable Shoes & the Features You Need to Keep a Spring in Your Step

Unique technologies are used in shoes designed for comfort. These technologies help keep your feet dry, supported and energized through long days of both work and play. But how are comfort shoes made and what features should you look for to keep that spring in your step?

Comfort shoes are more nuanced than just shoes that feel good. There are comfort shoes geared specifically at an array of different activities. There are comfort shoes designed for people who stand still all day and comfort shoes for walking. There are even comfort shoes for those who require a dressier look; these include pumps for women that use comfort technologies. Sandals that use comfort technologies to cradle the foot are also increasingly common and a welcome change from plain old flip-flops.

When looking for comfort shoes, there are several key aspects of the shoe you'll want to examine including the shave of the shoe as a whole, the construction of the insole and the materials out of which the shoe is made.

First let's look at overall construction. It's important a comfort shoe provides you with proper arch support and that it doesn't cramp your toes. For a woman's pump designed for comfort look for a somewhat boxy toe and a wedge or at least thick, relatively low heel -- this will help make sure that you don't put too much pressure on any one area of your foot. Even if you are looking for a flat comfort shoe, it is important that your heel is at least slightly elevated in order to avoid strain on your calves and shins.

Next consider the insole. Is it cushioned? Thick? Breathable? Well-made? Is it joined to the rest of the shoe neatly to make sure you are not at risk for blisters? With proper fit does it keep your foot from slipping in the shoe? Does it support your arch while also cradling your heel and toes?

Finally, it's time to look at materials, which may be the most important part of a comfort shoe. First and foremost a comfort shoe should be made frombreathable materials. This will help prevent your feet from sweating and keep you free of blisters and other discomforts. Breathable materials should either be natural leather and fibers or high-tech materials specifically designed to let air pass into and out of the shoe. These days most comfort shoes come with tags and literature addressing their materials and engineering -- if a shoe you are interested in doesn't, be sure to ask a salesman or search online. Next, look at the sole -- is it made from flexible yet durable materials?

Don't forget that a comfort shoe should also be light weight to prevent your legs from getting tired. Look for cork, foam and other synthetic materials that trap air and pillow your foot.

While advances in technology have allowed comfort shoes to become ever more stylish, a good fit is critical for a comfort shoe to do its job well. Remember that feeling good is looking good and vice versa!