03 may 2021

Practical advice & expertise

HOLLOW FEET? FLAT FEET? WHICH SHOES ARE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Choosing the safety shoe that's right for you is no easy task, because safety shoes can be chosen on the basis of a large number of requirements: safety standards, work environment, additional requirements and more. The one thing you should never compromise on is your comfort when you’re wearing the shoe! At Parade, customer comfort in our safety and work shoes is our priority! Wearing safety shoes that are appropriate for your foot shape will make your walking more pleasant and give you overall comfort while keeping you safe.

Remember that not everyone has the same foot shape and there may even be differences between left and right feet. That's why in this article we're going to give you a few pointers to help you choose the right shoe for your foot type.

First, we're going to help you recognise the shape of your feet. Next, Parade Protection will give you its advice on choosing shoes for flat feet, and then for hollow feet. Following these tips, you'll find a selection of shoes to suit every foot shape: flat or hollow. Finally, we'll explain the benefits of Parade Protection technologies.

1. KNOW THE SHAPE OF YOUR FEET

Before buying a new pair of safety shoes, you need to know and understand your foot shape.

Take a look at the arch of the foot. This is the hollow, curved part of the sole of your foot, which takes the shape of an arch, hence its name.

It is normally divided into three categories:

-A low arch means you have a flat foot
-A medium arch, you have a so-called regular foot
-A high arch, you've essentially got a hollow foot

If your foot is "flat", the arch is non-existent. A flat foot changes the distribution of weight on your foot. This is called "pronation", which means that your foot lands on the outside of the heel, then curls up and transfers the weight to the inside edge of the ball of the foot. This poor weight distribution can cause some discomfort.

If your foot is "regular", its arch is normal, which allows the weight to be distributed evenly.

Finally, if your foot is "hollow", the arch is very pronounced. A hollow foot reduces the points of support and alters the distribution of weight on your foot. This weight distribution can also cause discomfort and increase the risk of injury.

To find out about the structure of your foot, dampen your foot and step on a piece of cardboard, then you'll see your footprint.

If the footprint has the shape of the whole foot (on the far right of the diagram), it's quite possible that you have flat feet. On the other hand, if the footprint is of a foot where your arch does not appear (in the centre of the diagram), it is likely that you have hollow feet.

2. WHICH SHOES TO CHOOSE FOR FLAT FEET?

For people with flat feet, choose safety shoes:

> with a high shaft to support the ankle and back of the foot

> with laces or Velcro to adapt the opening of the shoe and tighten the shoe to the shape of your foot.

> with reinforced heels

> with a polycarbonate or composite protective toe cap. These materials are thicker, making the toe cap and the tip of the shoe wider, so there's more room for your toes.

> with good arch and foot support

> with a flexible sole. Go for safety shoes with fabric anti-puncture plates, more flexible than steel plates, which are more rigid.

Selection of safety shoes for flat feet:

3. WHICH SHOES TO CHOOSE FOR HOLLOW FEET?

For people with hollow feet, choose safety shoes:

> with a wide fit so that the toes are not compressed. Safety shoes with polycarbonate or composite toe caps will be wider.

> with arch support

> with a sturdy heel counter to support the foot at the back and keep the ankle in place. The heel counter is a piece that consolidates the shoe and keeps the heel of the foot in place.

> with a thick sole for better shock absorption

> with an adjustable opening with laces or Velcro to adjust the shoe to the shape of your foot

Selection of safety shoes for hollow feet:

For hollow feet, we recommend safety shoes with our "JUAN" insole. In fact, the safety shoes in this range have a very high suspended arch thanks to Parade VPS technology, which provides good support for a hollow foot.

4. PARADE TECHNOLOGIES

Parade has developed 3 exclusive technologies to make our safety shoes even more comfortable; these technologies support the foot or absorb shocks. If you have flat or hollow feet, these technologies can relieve these conditions.

- The VPS System is a technology which, thanks to the ergonomic shape of the sole, hugs the arch of the foot and helps to maintain the natural arch shape. This support reduces premature fatigue and provides unparalleled comfort. VPS is designed more for hollow feet. It may be suitable for "normal” feet but it supports the natural arch shape. Very good for hollow feet when standing.
- The Parade Air system is an air bubble in the sole that absorbs vibrations and micro-shocks. This technology offers very effective cushioning. It is designed for people who walk a lot and need a little cushioning.
- The DRS (delete resonance system) is a half-dome located in the heel area that dissipates shock waves and therefore trauma. DRS is intended for "active" people who, for example, jump from a ladder. It allows the shock to dissipate.

Whether your feet are thin, wide, hollow or flat, wearing safety shoes that are right for your foot shape will make walking more pleasant and give you overall comfort while keeping you safe.

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