Footwear & Orthotics

I used to think sweaty feet and blister hotspots were just part of being on my feet a lot — an annoying trade-off for an active life. After years of testing different shoes, routines and products, I discovered that many blister and sweat problems can be dramatically reduced by simple swaps in socks and insoles. Here I share the practical, research-backed changes I use and recommend to clients and readers. These are the swaps that actually make...

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I get asked a lot: “How do I find walking shoes that actually fit my wide feet?” It’s a question I’ve lived with — part frustration, part detective work — and over time I’ve learned that finding the right pair is less about chasing trendy designs and more about understanding a handful of shoe features that make everyday walking comfortable and sustainable.What “wide” really meansWhen people say they have wide feet, they can...

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I’ve helped many people figure out practical ways to ease foot pain, and one strategy I keep returning to is the humble night splint. If you’ve been waking up with a stabbing heel pain from plantar fasciitis, a night splint can feel like a small miracle — but they’re not instantly comfortable or intuitive for everyone. I want to explain clearly how night splints work, who might benefit, and practical tips to actually tolerate wearing one...

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I help readers keep their feet comfortable and functional every day, and one of the simplest ways to spare yourself pain, blisters, and wasted money is to make sure your shoes actually fit. I’ve measured hundreds of feet—my own included—and learned that a few careful steps at home will get you a reliable measurement for length, width, and volume so you can pick shoes that feel good from the first wear. Below I share practical,...

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I often hear people ask whether plantar fasciitis is “from my shoes” or “from my posture.” It’s a great question because the answer isn’t always either-or — both can contribute. Over the years I’ve worked with clients and tested routines on myself, and I’ve learned to look for certain patterns that point more strongly to footwear problems versus biomechanical or postural issues. In this article I walk you through those...

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I’ve helped many people with foot pain and puzzling discomfort over the years, and one question I hear a lot is: “Can an over-the-counter (OTC) orthotic help my high arches?” The short answer is yes — but only if you choose the right one for your foot shape, activity level, and symptoms. In this article I’ll walk you through practical steps to pick an OTC orthotic that supports high arches comfortably and effectively, without...

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I remember the first time I tried a pair of minimalist shoes: the excitement of feeling the ground again, and the nagging calf tightness that followed a few days later. If you’re curious about minimalist footwear but worried about pain or injury, this six-week plan is the exact, practical approach I wish I’d followed from the start. It’s grounded in gradual loading, mobility work, and simple strength habits you can do at home. I wrote it...

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When I first started experimenting with toe spacers and silicone splints, I was looking for small, practical steps to ease bunion-related discomfort without jumping straight into surgical options. Over time I learned how to use these simple devices safely and effectively alongside gentle exercises, better footwear choices, and pacing strategies. Below I share a clear, research-informed approach to choosing, fitting, and using toe spacers and...

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