June 03, 2005

Choosing The Right Shoes, Golf Shoes, Wedding Shoes And Other Footwear!



Wearing a comfortable pair of shoes is very important if you spend much time on your feet. Whether you’re standing, walking or running, all of your weight falls directly onto the bottom of your feet. That’s why the shoes you wear are critical to the long term comfort and health of your feet and ankles.

Whether you’re wearing sandals, boots or running shoes it’s crucial that your feet are supported and comfortable. Shoes with support and shock absorption will help reduce pounding on the rest of your body as you walk or run.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of shoes are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Choosing The Right Shoes, Golf Shoes, Wedding Shoes And Other Footwear!
by: Mike Yeager

Wearing a comfortable pair of shoes is very important if you spend much time on your feet. Whether you’re standing, walking or running, all of your weight falls directly onto the bottom of your feet. That’s why the shoes you wear are critical to the long term comfort and health of your feet and ankles.

Whether you’re wearing sandals, boots or running shoes it’s crucial that your feet are supported and comfortable. Shoes with support and shock absorption will help reduce pounding on the rest of your body as you walk or run.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of shoes are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

We’ve chosen from only the best suppliers of shoes. Whether you’re looking for women’s shoes, men’s shoes or wedding shoes, you’ll find absolutely any style your looking for on the internet. You can be confident that your personal choice of shoes will arrive quickly right to your door.

About The Author

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/
mjy610@hotmail.com

June 3, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 02, 2005

Quality Birkenstock Shoes And Sandals



Wearing birkenstock shoes is like wearing no other pair of shoes. Johann Adam Birkenstock was a shoemaker in Germany in the late 1700’s. The birkenstock shoe was designed with an understanding that a person’s shoes should reflect the shape of their feet. If the shoe is contoured and shaped like a human foot, comfort is sure to follow. For many, many years birkenstock shoes have done just that. Comfort, style and durability have all been a part of every pair of birkenstocks.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of shoes are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Quality Birkenstock Shoes And Sandals
by: Mike Yeager

Wearing birkenstock shoes is like wearing no other pair of shoes. Johann Adam Birkenstock was a shoemaker in Germany in the late 1700’s. The birkenstock shoe was designed with an understanding that a person’s shoes should reflect the shape of their feet. If the shoe is contoured and shaped like a human foot, comfort is sure to follow. For many, many years birkenstock shoes have done just that. Comfort, style and durability have all been a part of every pair of birkenstocks.

In prehistoric times skins or hides were probably tied around the foot for protection and warmth. The sandal, probably the earliest form of shoe, was worn in Egypt, Greece, and Rome; an early form of the boot was also known in Greece and Rome. The characteristic shoe of the Middle Ages was the soft, clinging moccasin, which extended to the ankle. It was highly decorated and was of velvet, cloth of gold, and, increasingly, of leather. Today the choices of shoes are great…wonderful styles and comfort.

Whether its birkenstock shoes, birkenstock sandals or clogs, each pair is beautifully designed and crafted for easy wear and fashionable.

We’ve chosen from only the best suppliers of birkenstock shoes so that you’ll find absolutely any style your looking for on the internet. You can be confident that your personal choice of birkenstock will arrive quickly right to your door.

About The Author

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-shoes-4u.com/
mjy610@hotmail.com

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Five Ways to Break In Party Shoes



1. Wear them around the house for at least 2 days, with a pair of thick white cotton athletic socks, using either sandpaper or a sidewalk to slightly scuff the bottom.

2. If they're leather, waterproof the outside of the shoes, then soak the entire pair underwater for about 2 minutes. Wearing a pair of thick white socks, walk around your house until dry. The shoe will mold to your foot. Caution: Don’t try this with an expensive pair, or light-colored shoes.

3. Purchase a pair of Dr. Scholl’s Heel liners, available at you local drugstore, and place them on the inside heel of the shoe. The liners help not only to break in the shoe, but also to keep your heels from slipping and rubbing.

4. If the shoe is particularly tight or stiff, grab it by the heel and gently knead it back and forth to loosen the sole, being very careful not to break the sole.

5. If all else fails, purchase a shoe stretcher, a device similar to a shoe tree that helps stretch tight shoes. This device can be purchased from your local shoe repair shop or shoe store.

Five Ways to Break In Party Shoes
by: Kathryn Finney

1. Wear them around the house for at least 2 days, with a pair of thick white cotton athletic socks, using either sandpaper or a sidewalk to slightly scuff the bottom.

2. If they're leather, waterproof the outside of the shoes, then soak the entire pair underwater for about 2 minutes. Wearing a pair of thick white socks, walk around your house until dry. The shoe will mold to your foot. Caution: Don’t try this with an expensive pair, or light-colored shoes.

3. Purchase a pair of Dr. Scholl’s Heel liners, available at you local drugstore, and place them on the inside heel of the shoe. The liners help not only to break in the shoe, but also to keep your heels from slipping and rubbing.

4. If the shoe is particularly tight or stiff, grab it by the heel and gently knead it back and forth to loosen the sole, being very careful not to break the sole.

5. If all else fails, purchase a shoe stretcher, a device similar to a shoe tree that helps stretch tight shoes. This device can be purchased from your local shoe repair shop or shoe store.

About The Author

Kathryn “The Budget Fashionista” Finney is the founder and Editor in Chief of Kate Magazine and The Budget Fashionista- two popular online shopping magazines. She is also the Chief Shopping Officer of TBF Group, LLC, an internet based company focused on providing the best shopping and fashion advice on the web. Known as “the stylist to the cheap,” Kate has been around the world searching for the best bargains on designer goods, and is willing to get the bargain by any (legal) means necessary.
thebudgetfashionista.com
kathrynfin@thebudgetfashionista.com

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Looking For Womens Dress Shoes? Then Online Shoe Stores Will Have What You Want



Today finding a womens dress shoe doesn't have to be the daunting and exhausting store to store hunt. Online shoe stores have brought you the greatest selection of womens shoes without all the drudgery of the mall rat race.

Dress shoes come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes and fashions. Choosing the right pair for any occasion shouldn't be stressful. The process should be pleasant and fun ultimately leading you to buying the pair of dress shoes you want or need. So stay at home, view shoes online and have them delivered right to your front door.

Looking For Womens Dress Shoes? Then Online Shoe Stores Will Have What You Want
by: Bowe Packer

Today finding a womens dress shoe doesn't have to be the daunting and exhausting store to store hunt. Online shoe stores have brought you the greatest selection of womens shoes without all the drudgery of the mall rat race.

Dress shoes come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes and fashions. Choosing the right pair for any occasion shouldn't be stressful. The process should be pleasant and fun ultimately leading you to buying the pair of dress shoes you want or need. So stay at home, view shoes online and have them delivered right to your front door.

Understand that shoe stores online make it convenient, cost effective and even fun to shop for womens shoes. You can view hundreds of shoes within a very short period of time while sipping a cup of your favorite tea.

For those of you women who are always in the market for a stylish pair of dress shoes you will want to know where the best shoe stores are. You will want to compare prices, selections and styles. Once again just thinking about doing this the old fashion way can leave you exhausted. So when you know the occasion don't waste your time and energy at your local mall, take a small walk over to your computer and start your search for that perfect pair of womens shoes.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Choosing A High-Quality Pair Of Womens Dress Shoes



Let's face it, women love shoes. And most women spend more money than they sometimes want to on womens dress shoes. Well, it is no secret, you don't have to spend a fortune on dress shoes to buy a quality shoe that fits comfortably. The only pre-requisite is you know what to look for.

Ensuring Fit in Your Dress Shoes

Follow theses tips to help you in your quest for the perfect fit in womens shoes:

Be sure to ask your friendly salesperson to measure both your feet, because as you know, many times the right and left foot sizes differ slightly. You are also creating a rapport with this person. He or she will then be more willing to help you find that perfect fit in the nine west shoes or the dsw shoes.

Try on shoes with socks of appropriate thickness. If you will be wearing nylons, bring nylons, depending on the type of dress shoe you're thinking of buying a thicker sock might be more suitable. When looking at the selection of shoes for women keep in mind each pair of womens shoes will almost always be different in size. Example: the 7 in dc shoes will probably fit different than the 7 in the steve madden shoes.

Choosing A High-Quality Pair Of Womens Dress Shoes
by: Bowe Packer

Let's face it, women love shoes. And most women spend more money than they sometimes want to on womens dress shoes. Well, it is no secret, you don't have to spend a fortune on dress shoes to buy a quality shoe that fits comfortably. The only pre-requisite is you know what to look for.

Ensuring Fit in Your Dress Shoes

Follow theses tips to help you in your quest for the perfect fit in womens shoes:

Be sure to ask your friendly salesperson to measure both your feet, because as you know, many times the right and left foot sizes differ slightly. You are also creating a rapport with this person. He or she will then be more willing to help you find that perfect fit in the nine west shoes or the dsw shoes.

Try on shoes with socks of appropriate thickness. If you will be wearing nylons, bring nylons, depending on the type of dress shoe you're thinking of buying a thicker sock might be more suitable. When looking at the selection of shoes for women keep in mind each pair of womens shoes will almost always be different in size. Example: the 7 in dc shoes will probably fit different than the 7 in the steve madden shoes.

This almost goes without saying, but you need to walk around the shoe store. Especially with dress shoes on and feel how they fit around your heels, upper sole, insteps, balls and toes. Women's shoes, as said before almost always have a different feel between shoe stores and manufacturers.

Now for the most important point to selecting dress shoes for women. The dress shoes should feel comfortable from the start; yes, I know, but there so cute. Today shoe stores an manufacturers have come a long way and are producing cute women's shoes that are built for comfort.
Guaranteeing True Quality In Designer Womens Dress Shoes

Steps for quality control in your dress shoe:

Take a long hard look at the sole to make sure it is securely attached to the shoe. Here is a quick tip to keep in mind. Some soles on dress shoes for women are cemented to the upper shoe and others are stitched. Either type is acceptable, just knowing the difference will help you in your selection.

For women's shoes Checking the heel is very important. High-quality dress shoes have leather heels, which many times, come equipped with a layer of rubber or nylon on the back edge of the heel. On the other hand, heels on high-heeled shoes for women are usually made of plastic and then have a protective layer of leather. And of course, the higher the price, the higher quality of plastic being used. In dress shoes for women you certainly get what you pay for.

A true interior inspection is a must. Because, not all interiors of dress shoes are created equal. Leather interiors absorb foot moisture best. Good-quality womens shoes are lined from front to back and side to side.
Finally, a rule of thumb to live by when buying dress shoes:

With an inspection of the eye, you shouldn't find a bit of glue anywhere on the shoe.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

How To Walk In High Heel Womens Dress Shoes



Although many women love high heels, others don't wear them very often. Womens dress shoes, especially high heels, are very intimidating. But, high heeled shoes for women don't have to have this effect on your decision to wear them.

So, when a "high heel occasion" presents itself, many women will run and hide making every excuse in the book why not to attend the event. These famous heel high shoes for women don't have to send you running for the hills. Don't let fear keep you from wearing the dress shoe of your choice and having a great timeout dancing the night away! Walking in high heels doesn't have to be such a challenge and with a bit of practice, you'll be stepping out and dancing in the high heels of your choice in no time.

How To Walk In High Heel Womens Dress Shoes
by: Bowe Packer

Although many women love high heels, others don't wear them very often. Womens dress shoes, especially high heels, are very intimidating. But, high heeled shoes for women don't have to have this effect on your decision to wear them.

So, when a "high heel occasion" presents itself, many women will run and hide making every excuse in the book why not to attend the event. These famous heel high shoes for women don't have to send you running for the hills. Don't let fear keep you from wearing the dress shoe of your choice and having a great timeout dancing the night away! Walking in high heels doesn't have to be such a challenge and with a bit of practice, you'll be stepping out and dancing in the high heels of your choice in no time.

Stepping Out In High Heels - Shoes For Women:

First practice just standing in high heels. Put yourself in front of a full length mirror, standing for a while, then turning slightly from side to side. You will not only be able to check your posture and profile, but just standing in high heels will help remove some of your apprehension and let you get accustomed to the extra inches in the heels. A woman's dress shoe is about feeling comfortable in her own minds eye.

Try the high heel out by taking a few steps. If possible, do this at first on a hard floor or in a room with low carpeting. Then if possible try them out on thicker or padded carpeting. But, keep in mind this is a progression, don't just jump right to thick carpeting. High heel dress shoes for women are fun once you learn how they feel.

OK, now as you walk in high heels, remember to keep your legs straight and as close together as possible. Start yourself off with slow, determined steps at first, being extra conscientious of each step and the placement of each foot. As your confidence and experience build, walking in high heels will become much more natural. Walking in high heel shoes for women will become second nature the more you walk in them.
When it comes to actually walking comfortably in your womens high heels - practice, practice, practice is what it will take. Wearing high heels is a totally different walking experience, and if you take it for granted or think you know how, you'll not only end up with sore feet, but possibly an injury. And if your first experience is bad will you ever return for a second try? Most likely not, leaving you doomed to flats forever. So, when your are shopping for those designer dress shoes like stuart weitzman and claudia cuiti remember to buy the ones you like and have fun!

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Searching Tips For Womens Casual Shoes



Casual shoes for women are without a doubt the most comfortable shoes you can ever put on your feet. It doesn't matter what kind of foot pain you may be suffering from -corns, flat feet, fallen arches, once you find the right pair of womens casual shoes; you're not going to want to ever leave home without them.

Casual shoes for women could be the most versatile shoe you can have in your closet. Casual shoes can virtually be worn with any type of clothing. This includes, but is not limited to tee shirts, shorts, jeans, sweat suits, sweaters and yes, even swim suits.

Searching Tips For Womens Casual Shoes
by: Bowe Packer

Casual shoes for women are without a doubt the most comfortable shoes you can ever put on your feet. It doesn't matter what kind of foot pain you may be suffering from -corns, flat feet, fallen arches, once you find the right pair of womens casual shoes; you're not going to want to ever leave home without them.

Casual shoes for women could be the most versatile shoe you can have in your closet. Casual shoes can virtually be worn with any type of clothing. This includes, but is not limited to tee shirts, shorts, jeans, sweat suits, sweaters and yes, even swim suits.

So, the million dollar question - where do women look when looking for designer casual shoes and what is considered comfortable? There are many factors to consider when looking for casual women's shoes but they depend on your lifestyle needs as to what factors are important to you. Whatever your choices may be, the ultimate goal is to find that perfect casual shoe which is most comfortable to you.

Casual Shoe Considerations

The first consideration in your search for the right shoes is finding the proper fit. If you are an odd size, you shouldn't settle for any other size. There are many manufacturers of women's shoes, if you stay persistent on your search, you can find the exact size in casual shoes and settle for nothing less. The internet is now fast becoming a place to find the right designer casual shoe with the right fit. Remember, trying to wear a shoe in a size that is either too narrow or wide, or too short or long, will only create the opportunity to cause you pain with your feet.

The next consideration to make is what is your lifestyle and what type of activities do you perform on a daily basis. For example, if you are a women on the go then women's shoes such as mules and slip-ons are an excellent choice. They bring you fashion, comfort and ease of use that a casual pair of shoes are know for. Women's casual shoes such as sandals offer an excellent shoe for the summer season.

And third, your climate is to be considered. You'll find that the most comfortable women's casual shoes for you are the ones that respect the climate in which you live in and keep your feet either cool or warm respectively. So, when looking for that perfect casual shoe remember where you live. If you live in a climate that is often cold and damp, you will want a women's shoe that not only protects, but keeps your feet warm. Warmer climates, such as San Diego California or South Beach Florida will only require a lightweight sandal.

The most comfortable casual shoes for women you can purchase are the ones that meet all of the above considerations. But there's even more to consider when you go shopping for casual shoes. Some of these considerations are: do you need shoes that offer needed support. If the answer is yes, then you should choose a women's shoe that has a high - topped leather or canvas upper. This list could go on and on, but I think you get the point.

So, no matter what your lifestyle, or the climate in which you live in, and whatever might be your fashion needs, you can always find the most comfortable women's designer casual shoes. Try to steer away from discount places that produce inferior products with inferior materials.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Is There Room In Your Closet For Women's Casual Shoes?



Many women ask the question - What's wrong with sneakers? Aren't they considered women's casual shoes?

There really is nothing wrong with tennis shoes, after all they are categorized as the traditional casual shoes.

Although sneakers are casual shoes, women are moving towards reaching for a pair of casual shoes for women and particularly womens designer casual shoes. The fancier more stylish look is just a tad dressier, even when your favorite wear is jeans and a t-shirt.

Putting Your Best Casual Women's Shoe Forward

Is There Room In Your Closet For Women's Casual Shoes?
by: Bowe Packer

Many women ask the question - What's wrong with sneakers? Aren't they considered women's casual shoes?

There really is nothing wrong with tennis shoes, after all they are categorized as the traditional casual shoes.

Although sneakers are casual shoes, women are moving towards reaching for a pair of casual shoes for women and particularly womens designer casual shoes. The fancier more stylish look is just a tad dressier, even when your favorite wear is jeans and a t-shirt.

Putting Your Best Casual Women's Shoe Forward

Women across the country have to admit, there's an element of excitement to sliding on a pair of comfortable, yet stylish pair of casual shoes for women. This is not limited to, but includes such shoes as clogs, nine-west, steve maddens, mules or mary-janes that makes women feel a little more prepared and ready for what the day might place in there path. These women's designer casual shoes are fast becoming the shoe of choice due to there comfort and style. These casual shoes are delivering a feeling that life hasn't tore you up and spit you out, and even on those more relaxed days, you've still got a bit of fashion on your feet.

So, for those of you live in jeans, there are so many great womens casual shoe options, the possibilities are endless, and the choices can be fun and exciting to look at.

The Proper Casual Shoe Heel

As a general rule of thumb, when you're choosing to dress casually, leave the high heel shoes or flashy footwear at home and in the closet. Make your selection from your casual shoe selection and leave the high and pointy heels for those going out and dancing nights. Casual shoes for women are just that, casual.

Here are a few tips to help you decide which heel is appropriate for your casual women's shoe day:

With a longer pant leg choose a pair of womens shoes that has a small heel. Letting the hem of your pants drag on the floor is even a bit much for "casual" and has a tendency to look a bit sloppy.

For the average length and slightly shorter jeans choose a pair of casual shoes that have a small or no heel. This allows the hem to be slightly above the floor eliminating the sloppy look.

The whole point to "going casual" is to be comfortable and stress-free, but look good while you are at it. So, when making that perfect decision on your women's designer casual shoes remember the tips above. Casual womens shoes can have style, fashion and feel comfortable on your feet.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Online Shoe Stores Carry A Wide Variety Of Womens Athletic Shoes To Choose From



Women who are excited about sports whether it is running, softball or volleyball need the right kind of athletic shoe. This is especially true when it comes to running. There is a wide selection of womens shoes to choose from when looking for an athletic shoe.

The purpose of an athletic shoe is to protect the foot from the stresses of your sport, while permitting the athlete to achieve her maximum potential through maximum effort. This of course is accomplished much better when you have selected the right shoe from the right shoe store.

Online Shoe Stores Carry A Wide Variety Of Womens Athletic Shoes To Choose From
by: Bowe Packer

Women who are excited about sports whether it is running, softball or volleyball need the right kind of athletic shoe. This is especially true when it comes to running. There is a wide selection of womens shoes to choose from when looking for an athletic shoe.

The purpose of an athletic shoe is to protect the foot from the stresses of your sport, while permitting the athlete to achieve her maximum potential through maximum effort. This of course is accomplished much better when you have selected the right shoe from the right shoe store.

Despite the fact that in some parts of the world athletes run and participate in sports barefooted, most of us require and benefit from the use of sport specific shoes. An athletic shoe that is built and designed with the sport in mind.

The concept of "Sport Specific Shoes" is an important one. It means that if you are a sports fanatic and participate in multiple sports you need an athletic shoe that is specific to each of those sports. If you lift weights, play tennis, perform aerobics, run 20 miles per week, cycle, play golf and mountain climb, do yourself a big favor and don't try to make your cross trainers do it all. Just skip the cross trainer and get yourself shoes that are specifically made for each sport.

Online shoe stores offer any and all kinds of athletic shoes that will cover all your sports needs with the convenience of making that selection from home. But, don't forget to do your homework and understand your sports shoe need before the selection and purchase.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)

Choosing The Right Womens Athletic Shoes - (Part 1)



The days that women laced up their only pair of womens athletic shoes to go running, play tennis or play volleyball are over. With todays technology and a better understanding of human conditioning, womens shoes come in a wide variety serving many purposes. Owning more than one pair of athletic shoes for women is now a must if you do more than running.

As women go shopping for a pair of athletic designer shoes today they must understand it is a whole new ball game and another world. The mantra "One size fits all" doesn't work anymore . The multibillion-dollar industry offers an overwhelming number of styles, brands, colors, attributes and prices to choose from.

Choosing The Right Womens Athletic Shoes - (Part 1)
by: Bowe Packer

The days that women laced up their only pair of womens athletic shoes to go running, play tennis or play volleyball are over. With todays technology and a better understanding of human conditioning, womens shoes come in a wide variety serving many purposes. Owning more than one pair of athletic shoes for women is now a must if you do more than running.

As women go shopping for a pair of athletic designer shoes today they must understand it is a whole new ball game and another world. The mantra "One size fits all" doesn't work anymore . The multibillion-dollar industry offers an overwhelming number of styles, brands, colors, attributes and prices to choose from.

Should you run out and splurge on the latest pair of Adidas athletic shoes? Are they really better than the Reebok, Brooks or Puma athletic shoes? Not necessarily — the more expensive a pair of womens shoes are doesn't mean the shoes will fit you better and be comfortable. Women should pay special attention to comfort, not design or price. When choosing the right pair of shoes from your favorite athletic shoes store that basing your selection on comfort will save you pain and money in the long run.

The Internals Of An Athletic Shoe

Now let's run down the internals of an athletic shoe. Understanding these parts will bring you a clarity to what you are looking for in that perfect running, tennis or soccer shoe.

Insole - This is the portion of the sole that fits inside the shoe to provide cushioning and arch support.

Last - This component of the shoe is the footprint that the shoe is built around. The last comes in a curved, semicurved or straight style.

Outsole - This the outermost portion of the sole, hence the name, that makes the contact with the ground and is treaded for traction.

Upper - Top part of the shoe where the laces reside, fancy designs and bright colors that keep the shoe intact and keeps it wrapped around your foot during your athletic activity.

Midsole - Is usually the only real padded region that lies between the insole and the outsole and provides your foot with comfort, cushioning and shock absorption.

Counter - This region is located around the heel of the shoe and is rigid that provides the stability of the athletic shoe and keeps the heel of the foot in its proper place.

Toe box - Located at the tip of the shoe that gives the toes wiggle room.

Heel tab - Notched area of the ankle collar that reduces stress on the Achilles tendon.

Ankle collar - The region that is around the ankle and is padded for fit and of course comfort.

So, with this information you are now armed with some basics that should make your search at the athletic shoes stores to be more productive.

Remember, comfort in your designer athletic shoes should be priority number 1. With this in mind it should be such a mystery as to what athletic shoe for women is right for you.

Stay tuned to part number 2, where we will go into further detail and tie it all together as to what shoes are right for what athletic activity.

About The Author

Bowe Packer is the Webmaster and content provider for http://www.clothes-4u.com. His website: http://www.clothes-4u.com is dedicated to providing free fashion advice and tips for women. Offering excellent tips and strategies for women to look good in the areas of Casual, Petite Size, Plus Size clothing, as well as dress, athletic and casual shoes. You can reach him at: bowe@clothes-4u.com.

June 2, 2005 in Shoe Articles | Permalink | Comments (0)