Any time you work in a physically demanding field that requires you to wear boots, you need to choose your boots carefully. The wrong fit or style can cause a lot of discomfort. If you're new to having to wear work boots, you may not really know what to look for when you try them on. Here are a few things to consider as you're shopping for your next pair of boots.
Make Sure Your Toes Have Space
When you try on work boots, it's common to think that they need to be snug around your toes. Unfortunately, if they fit like that, they're going to actually crunch your toes a bit when you're walking. Remember that your feet will shift a bit in the boots when you're walking, so consider that when you're trying them on. Slide your foot as far forward as you can in the boots, then try to slip your finger between your heel and the back of the boot. You should be able to fit one finger between them. This gives you enough room for movement without having so much that you're likely to get blisters on your heels.
Consider How The Heel Fits
The shape of the boot around your heel can have a significant effect on how the boot feels and fits around the heel. Walk in the boots when you try them on to make sure that your heel isn't being cramped in the heel space. At the same time, it also shouldn't be so loose that your heel rubs and slips against the boot. Try on a few different styles until you find the heel shape that best fits your foot.
Don't Assume Discomfort Will Get Better
A lot of people dismiss discomfort in brand new boots assuming that a break-in period will ease it and make them more comfortable. Unfortunately, while your boots will break in a little bit, that's not going to do much for ill-fitting boots from the start. Make sure that the boots are comfortable when you try them on. If they are a little bit stiff, that will ease up as you wear them, but if they aren't comfortable, they aren't really going to become comfortable. Choose wisely so that you get a pair of boots you'll be happy to wear.
These tips will help you to choose a pair of work boots that will serve you well on your long shifts. Don't rush the choice. Make sure you get a pair that fits and feels right.
