What Makes a Good Sneaker? Why Some Sneakers Aren’t Good for Your Feet

Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, is a board-certified podiatrist specializing in women’s foot care in Manhattan and Westwood, NJ.

Not all sneakers are created equally. While some sneakers are designed for comfort many of them are too flat and lack the necessary features that promote foot health and overall well-being such as support  So, what makes a good sneaker exactly? You need a good shoe that is not only comfortable but is also supportive. Choosing a flat shoe that just feels good is like “junk food”- may taste good, but it isn’t good for you in the long run. There is a cumulative negative effect on feet and body, over time, from wearing unsupportive, flat shoes. Making small changes such as choosing proper shoe styles with Vionic’s Vio Motion technology can make a big impact on your overall skeletal health. This technology includes a deep seated heel cup, cushioned and flexible forefoot and arch support to help achieve whole body balance. 

Benefits of Wearing Supportive Sneakers for Different Activities

Before diving into how to choose a sneaker, let’s review the benefits of wearing quality sneakers. Wearing the right shoe for your activity is essential for enhancing performance, preventing injuries, and maintaining overall foot health. Whether you’re tackling a trail in hiking shoes, going for a jog in running shoes, or spending hours on your feet in a walking shoe, the right pair can make all the difference. A comfortable sneaker with proper cushioning and arch support helps absorb impact, reducing strain on your feet, heels, and joints. Vionic sneakers are a perfect example of how good shoes can elevate your daily activities. From versatile athletic shoes to the best walking shoe technology, our designs focus on providing the cushioning and arch support needed. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable shoe for everyday wear, Vionic offers the best overall combination of style, support, and functionality.

What to Look for in a Pair of Sneakers

What are the best sneakers? Here are some features to look for in a good for you sneaker:

Cushioning: Good sneakers should provide adequate cushioning to absorb impact during activities and walking. Over time, overuse of a lightweight shoe that lacks cushioning can lead to injuries and discomfort such as peroneal tendonitis, heel pain, neuromas and stress fractures just to name a few.

Arch Support: Proper arch support is important for maintaining foot alignment and preventing and treating skeletal issues. Sneakers that lack adequate support may also contribute to fatigue, discomfort, back, knee and hip pain.  The perfect comfortable sneaker should provide excellent heel, arch, and ankle support, ensuring you can stay on your feet all day without discomfort or pain. Most styles from Vionic have a removable insole which can be replaced with a custom orthotic when necessary.

Fit: A well-fitting sneaker is super important. The right shoe should allow for some wiggle room in the toes but be snug enough to prevent excessive movement and friction. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, calluses, and long-term foot problems. 

Durability: High-quality sneakers are designed to withstand regular use without quickly wearing out. Investing in durable and comfortable shoe can save you money in the long run.  (Make sure to replace old and worn out sneakers regularly.  Once shoes are worn they can tilt your foot as you walk. Think of a flat tire on a car!)

Vionic’s Winny Sneaker looks like a classic rubber-sole lace up and has timeless appeal.  It is a clean, minimalist shoe that can be dressed up or dressed down. The Vio motion technology makes it an easy choice for all day wear. 

The Importance of Choosing the Right Sneaker

Selecting the right sneaker is more than just a fashion statement—it’s a vital step toward protecting your foot health and enhancing your daily activities. Whether you need a walking shoe for long strolls, a running shoe for high-impact workouts, or a stability shoe for extra support, the proper shoe can prevent discomfort, fatigue, and injuries like heel pain or stress fractures. Remember, the right pair of sneakers can be life-changing—step into Vionic, and experience the difference today!

 

Author:

Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, believes in a holistic approach to foot care, guiding patients to discoveries that are related to every part of the body, not just the foot. She has practices at City Podiatry in Midtown Manhattan of New York City and Hackensack Medical Center at Pascack Valley in Westwood, NJ.  

After graduating from Fordham University in the Bronx, where she received bachelor’s degrees in biology and philosophy, Dr. Sutera earned her medical degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in Manhattan. She performed her residency at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens, where she served as chief resident. 

Dr. Sutera is a board-certified podiatrist and specializes in women’s foot care, giving her patients the opportunity to talk through ailments and help them understand how podiatric issues relate to their overall health. She’s one of New Jersey and New York City’s most trusted experts in the industry and has appeared in many national news outlets discussing and writing about foot care. Dr. Sutera approaches her practice with compassion, conscientiousness, and her unique wide-ranging base of knowledge and experience.

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