An ensemble is never complete without the right footwear. Whether it is sporting gear or a wedding outfit, to look your very best and to enhance your productivity you need to wear the right pair of shoes or sandals as the case may be. Sure, we all end up buying shoes because of the way they look, because they are a popular brand, or because they are a certain type of shoe (e.g. aerobic, walking, running, or court shoes). But it is important to keep in mind that purchasing a shoe on the basis of its brand, type, price, or look won't guarantee it's the best shoe you can buy. After all, your shoe must ensure that while your feet look trendy and smart, they also feel comfortable. Remember, any eenie-meenie discomfort your feet experience could translate into undue stress for the rest of your body. "A good shoe is one which does not give any stress to your feet and leaves you feeling comfortable as you go about your jobs," says Upasana Sarin, director, Finesse, a shoe store chain across the city. Whether you are picking party pumps or office wear sandals, keep in mind that proper support, flexibility, and protection as well as comfort and durability are the key pointers to any good shoe purchase.

Shoe Facts

Any shoe has four main parts: the heel counter, the toe box, the upper, and the mid-sole, explains mhhe.com. It's important to consider all of these parts when selecting a shoe. A heel counter helps prevent the foot from rolling when the heel strikes the ground. The toe box should give the toes enough room to comfortably fit in the shoe. The upper is the body or the top part of the shoe. Uppers can be made only of leather, or of leather and nylon, which stabilise the shoe. They can also be made of nylon or nylon mesh, which is more flexible and has more give. The mid-sole, at the arch of the foot, should have adequate cushioning, since great stress is placed on this area.

Before shopping for a shoe, consider what activity the shoe will be used for. Are you looking for a shoe or sandal to wear to work, are you looking for party pumps or are you buying shoes for an adventure trip.

While Buying Shoes For Work Wear

Wearing the right shoe to work is not only a dress code requirement but also a comfort thing. Imagine if you have to attend an important meeting and you heel snaps or if you have to take a trip on the factory floor with your CEO and your shoe decides that today is pinch-your-toes day? In order to avoid such scenes, it is best to segregate your work footgear from party one. The topmost criteria while considering purchase of work shoes should be comfort. It is always a good idea to opt for leather or suede instead of canvas, which is looks sportier while choosing work wear footgear, suggests stylephyle.com. Avoid anything that looks too much like a slipper. You don't want to look like you're padding around the house while you're at work. Choose a slight heel - even a half-inch is better than a totally flat skimmer. "But stilettos are out, especially if you are not used to wearing them. Restrict your workplace heels to a maximum of two-three inches," suggests Upasana.

While Buying Shoes For Exercising

"While buying a shoe for sporting activity, keep in mind whether it is flexible, durable and lightweight," says Lokesh Mishra, of Woodland Shoes. He also suggests that one should opt for comfort over design while choosing a shoe for action wear. Another point to keep in mind is to choose a shoe in accordance to the sport you play. While multi-purpose shoes such as cross trainers may be a good alternative for those who want to combine several sports or activities, such as bicycling and weight training, in a single workout, if you are a one spot person who, say, likes jogging or playing tennis only, then it is best to opt for a shoe that is specific to the sport you play.

If you have high-arched feet, typically you will need shoes that have a greater tendency to absorb shock while those with flat feet require shoes with less cushioning but greater support and heel control. "When you go shopping for shoes, bring along the type of socks you'll be wearing during your athletic activities," advises mhhe.com.

While Buying Shoes For A Special Occasion

We all love to buy shoes that are pretty but not all that practical. Once you have chosen the pair you want, make sure you break them in before you wear them out on your big date or a grand party. "While choosing a pair of party shoes, it is always a good idea to pick a pair that can be worn with both Western and Indian outfits," suggests Upasana.

It's important to buy shoes that fit correctly. If the fit isn't right, you may develop pressure sores, calluses, or blisters. The best time of day to try on shoes is afternoons or evenings, when your feet have expanded. Some simple checks you can perform when buying a new pair of shoes include: Ensure the shoe is well ventilated, always try out both shoes Stick with these simple basics and you are sure to purchase footgear that will help you sail through the toughest day easily.

Trends for Spring-Summer 2005

Flat sandals with or without tie-up strings are going to be really hot this season, says Upasana Sarin, director, Finesse. Wedge heels, bright colours and shoes or sandals with fabric or jute will also be seen on the shelves. “ As far as formal footwear for women is concerned, strappy sandals, vibrant hues, rhinestones, diamantes are all. Essentially the bejeweled look will takeover from where sequins left off,” she adds. You will also see a lot of sandals in dull metallic shades like burnt gold, copper, bronze with dull embroidery, ‘dabka’ and ‘zardozi’ work on them. Since summer is around the corner, another key element in any shoe shopping expedition should taking care of the comfort factor, stresses Upasana. The lining or padding of the shoe should be such that it does not encourage sweating of the feet. Style with comfort is the mantra this season.