Healthy Feet

Manikins Get New Slippers

Wed, 22 May 2024 10:52:00 GMT

Health & Social Care students at Strode College in Somerset have kitted out the lifelike manikins on their simulation ward with slippers made by local footwear manufacturer, Cosyfeet.

Situated close to the college in the village of Street, Cosyfeet make slippers and shoes for people with swollen feet and were delighted to help out when Health T Level Course Manager, Jodie Chorley, reached out to them.

The anatomically correct manikins, known as Pete and Felicia, ‘live’ in the college’s realistic simulation ward. They are a valuable learning tool, supporting students in gaining essential skills towards their Health & Social Care qualifications. The manikins needed slippers just as actual patients would, and Cosyfeet were delighted to supply their Richie and Holly slippers in response.

“Our students love working with our manikins Pete and Felicia,” commented Jodie Chorley. “You can just tell they’re feeling a million dollars in their new slippers and we’re grateful to our friends at Cosyfeet for their help.”

Cosyfeet specialise in comfortable footwear for people who need an extra wide fitting, and take great pride in supporting local and national causes whenever possible.

“We have huge respect for the vital contribution made by Strode College and its students to the community,” commented Cosyfeet Managing Director, Nick Brine. “We’re very happy to be able to help.”

For more information on Cosyfeet visit www.cosyfeet.com

Friendly Shoes join the HFG-a warm welcome to you.

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 10:13:00 GMT

Introducing Friendly Shoes, the UK’s first fully adaptive footwear brand

Designed by an occupational therapist, Friendly Shoes are so easy to put on and take off that they have been called "game changers" by their customers.

This innovative company is on a mission to make footwear as accessible as possible. Since its launch in the UK in 2021, Friendly Shoes has helped thousands of people who have previously struggled to find shoes that are comfortable, functional and that they’re proud to wear.

What makes Friendly Shoes different? All the shoes are easy to put on thanks to a unique zip opening. Open the zip up wide and slide the whole foot (and an orthotic) in easily.

As well as being easy to put on and off, the shoes are wide-fitting, have removable memory foam insoles, are sensory-friendly, lightweight, have anti-slip tested soles and are padded and supportive.

The UK’s first fully adaptive footwear brand is proud to have joined the Healthy Footwear Group, after all its styles (adults and children’s) aligned with the guidelines.

Friendly Shoes are available in a variety of colours and patterns (from black to pink leopard print!) and sizes (K10 to adult 13) so there really is something for everyone.

You can buy Friendly Shoes online at www.friendlyshoes.co.uk. Or for more information, to stock Friendly Shoes or request flyers please contact hello@friendlyshoes.co.uk.

Cosyfeet achieves platinum in US and UK

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 11:56:00 GMT

Cosyfeet Achieves Platinum in US and UK

Cosyfeet, the Somerset-based retailer of premium footwear for people with swollen or extra wide feet, has attained a Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for both their US and UK operations.

Although the company achieved their first Platinum Award for the UK in 2020, their newer US operation has achieved the coveted Platinum Feefo Award for the first time this year, giving the company a top Feefo rating on two continents.

“Feefo is all about customer service and that’s number one priority for us,” says Head of Marketing, Angus Lewis. “Our customers have very specific footwear needs, so we respond with expert guidance and make ourselves a genuinely great company to deal with.”

Feefo Awards are unique as they are based purely on feedback from real customers. This means they are a true reflection of commitment to outstanding customer service.

To qualify for a Platinum award, retailers must achieve a Feefo Gold standard for three consecutive years. To receive a Gold Trusted Service award, businesses must have collected at least 50 reviews with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 4.9 between 1^stJanuary and 31^st December in the previous trading year.

About Cosyfeet

Specially designed to fit and flatter extra wide and swollen feet, Cosyfeet footwear is wider, deeper and roomier than the wide fitting footwear you’ll find on the high street.

This small, caring company has over 40 years’ experience of fitting swollen feet and legs. Their diabetic-friendly footwear has been reviewed for suitability by the College of Podiatry and UK healthcare professionals recommend Cosyfeet footwear to their patients nationwide.

Cosyfeet is a member of the Healthy Footwear Guide and offers a No Quibble Money Back Guarantee and free UK returns, so that customers can order with confidence.

About Feefo

Feefo is a leading global customer reviews and insights platform on a mission to empower its clients to fully understand how their customers experience their product or service.  

The Feefo suite of software, combined with its technical solutions expertise, enables its clients to gain a deeper understanding of customer sentiment, behaviour and intent, empowering them with insights to make better business decisions and improve their return on investment. With 96% of customers relying on reviews to purchase, Feefo also creates trust between consumers and businesses by adopting a unique approach to only collect verified reviews from real people. 

Cosyfeet wins Platinum with Feefo

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 13:30:52 GMT

Cosyfeet Wins Platinum with Feefo

Cosyfeet is the proud recipient of a Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award for 2022. The Trusted Service Awards are unique as they are based purely on feedback from real customers. This means they are a true reflection of commitment to outstanding customer service.

To qualify, Cosyfeet achieved a Feefo Gold standard for three consecutive years. To receive a Gold Trusted Service award, businesses must have collected at least 50 reviews with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 4.9 between 1^st January 2021 and 31^st December 2021.

“We’re thrilled to receive this award from Feefo”, says Liz Quartley, Shop Manager with Cosyfeet. “It means a lot because it’s based on feedback from our customers and, ultimately, keeping them happy is why we come to work each day. The award also recognises just how hard our staff have worked in really challenging circumstances. We’re fully committed to the highest quality of service, so it’s vital for us to listen, understand and respond to all our customers.”

The Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award means even more following another difficult year. Online interactions have soared since the start of coronavirus. People are now 40% more likely to leave feedback after a purchase. This has made it very difficult for many businesses who struggled to respond effectively. 43% of people now believe that companies have become less effective at dealing with negative feedback in the last year.

Congratulating Cosyfeet, Kim Burgess, Head of Customer Success at Feefo, said: “The Platinum Trusted Service Award is an extremely tough challenge. Winners go above and beyond to provide the very best customer experience.”

-Ends-

About Cosyfeet

Specially designed to fit and flatter extra wide and swollen feet, Cosyfeet footwear is wider, deeper and roomier than the wide fitting footwear you’ll find on the high street.

This small, caring company has 39 years’ experience of fitting swollen feet and legs. Their diabetic-friendly footwear has been reviewed for suitability by the College of Podiatry and UK healthcare professionals recommend Cosyfeet footwear to their patients nationwide.

Cosyfeet is a member of the Healthy Footwear Guide and offers a No Quibble Money Back Guarantee and free UK returns, so that customers can order with confidence.

About Feefo

Feefo is a leading global customer reviews and insights platform on a mission to empower its clients to fully understand how their customers experience their product or service.  

Anti-Fatigue Footwear

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 12:37:00 GMT

Let’s walk a day in the life of a typical worker. A healthy start to the day involves morning exercise, a one hour walk or run. If your job involves a lot of standing or walking, there is another eight to twelve hours on your feet.

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The role of footwear in preventing slips, trips and falls in the workplace.

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 16:16:00 GMT

A fall in a public place or at work can be a very distressing and humiliating event. It can become a serious issue in the workplace when injuries occur as a result of slips, trips and falls. Over 20% of all accidents in the workforce are classified in the slips, trips and fall category, with over half of these being caused by environmental agencies.

Environmental factors can include slippery surfaces following rain or spills, poorly designed or maintained walkways and poor lighting. Feeling sure footed in the workplace is essential. Wearing appropriate footwear is the most effective method of ensuring a safe workplace to prevent slips, trips and falls.

So, what are the critical features of a shoe to prevent workplace injuries?

1. It must be Fit for Purpose

When selecting and purchasing footwear for work, you should make sure it is fit for purpose. Ask yourself the following questions when trying on shoes:

- What type of environment will I be working in?

Are you working inside a factory, or out in the field? How often are you on your feet? Do you need protection from the elements, or is ventilation important to prevent over heating?

- What floor conditions will I be working on?

Is it smooth and firm, or loose terrain? Is the ground dry or can it sometimes be wet?

- What materials or liquids might I come in contact with?

Do you come in contact with oils and soap? This can provide more of a slippery surface than water. Do you work with chemicals that degrade certain materials quickly?

2. It must have the appropriate level of slip resistance

The majority of slip accidents occur on wet or contaminated surfaces. Footwear alone will not eliminate slip on contaminated surfaces, making it impossible to make footwear ‘non-slip’ or resistant to slip under all conditions. Selecting footwear with an appropriate tread pattern or surpassing a slip rating, however, will help minimise the risk of slipping.

3. It must be comfortable

Our feet are the only point of contact that we have with the ground, and the forces from the ground can be felt all the way up our legs to our back. Comfortable, supportive footwear can reduce the stress in our muscles and ligaments. Not only that, but footwear with anti-fatigue properties allows you to work on your feet for much longer periods. Look for the following attributes to reduce fatigue and minimise the risk of falls.

- Good Cushioning
It is ideal to have multiple layers of cushioning under the heel and forefoot. Avoid shoes that are too soft and provide little support.

- Stable Platform
A firm heel counter and stable midfoot allows the shoe to work with the foot during the gait cycle. Good torsional stability protects the foot from excessive pronation.

- Flexibility

The shoe needs to flex in the correct place at take-off. All too often footwear does not meet this need and can be the cause of Plantar Fasciitis.

4. It must be the correct fit

Having shoes that meet all of the above requirements will not make a difference if the shoe does not fit correctly. A shoe that fits too large can be a cause of tripping, and too small will cause damage to your feet. Take the following things into consideration when trying on shoes:

- Foot Length (heel to toe measurement)

- Arch Length (heel to ball of foot measurement)

- Width

- Foot Shape

It is always best to have your foot measured by a professional using an appropriate measuring device.

The Ascent range of Work shoes have an impressive array of stability and cushioning features. Ascent is a proven, innovative Australian born and bred footwear brand that started with a sporting shoe heritage. Ascent have put this high level of cushioning and support into their work shoes to provide Comfort for Hard Working Feet!

www.ascentfootwear.co.uk

It’s what’s on the inside that counts!

Can shoes be comfortable, functional, healthy AND attractive?

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 16:11:00 GMT

Thirty or forty years ago, you might have struggled to find good-looking, wide-fitting shoes. Back then, wider fitting shoes were not necessarily attractive. They were functional, but often a little frumpy. Those men and women who had developed wide feet, either naturally or due to medical conditions, were destined never again to buy elegant shoes. How things have changed! Making wide-fitting shoes comfortable and safe is one thing, but making them fashionable and desirable is another.

During the last two or three decades, British footwear companies have concentrated on developing comfortable footwear for the wider foot, but with deeper toe boxes and with slimmer silhouettes. Today, podiatrists and end users can easily find shoes, slippers, boots and sandals with widths from 2E to 8E or in flexible, variable fittings, available in an extensive range of sizes and styles, for both men and women.

Since 2010, many wide-fitting shoe styles have been recognised by the Healthy Footwear Group in its efforts to improve the foot health of the nation. A case in point is casual style Stanley, a sporty, contemporary sneaker in a variable 2V fitting, in ladies sizes up to size 9.

Many trendy boots styles have also been awarded the Healthy Footwear Symbol, such as style Rochefort, a sporty style, in casual suede with attractive contrast details. The padded ankle collar gives extra support. It opens wide for easy access and laces securely.

You can also look for the symbol which denotes ‘healthy shoes’ in men’s footwear. A prime example is men’s style Lambeth, a smart formal shoe, with traditional Oxford-style lacing and brogue detail.

So, there are no excuses anymore. There’s a wealth of interesting shoes out there, in a variety of colours and profiles – and they’re healthy too.

Give the Gift of Slippers this Christmas

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 22:05:22 GMT

Give the Gift of Slippers this Christmas

Tis the season to be gift giving, and if you are anything like me then you will be stuck with what to buy the older members of the family. I always struggle with what to buy my nan and end up buying some “smellies” that I wonder whether or not they get used or just languish in a drawer somewhere.

On average a third of over 65’s will suffer from a fall each year. This is down to a number of reasons, such as loss of muscle tone and proprioception (Perception or awareness of the position and movement of the body). A research paper published by the British Medical Journal concluded that properly fitted slippers, such as those carrying the Healthy Footwear Guide logo, could reduce the risk of falls in over 65’s by around 36%. As an extra bonus it has been estimated that preventing this number of falls could save the NHS in the region of £2.3 billion per year. Alongside this it would save other unwanted side effects for our loved ones. A single fall can have significant consequences for that person. They can cause injuries, fractures, loss of confidence, hospital admissions and a loss of independence.

When shopping for slippers, always try to adhere to the Healthy Footwear Guide’s features:

A stable heel of approx. 25cm
A good, sturdy heel counter that provides good cosseting
Good retention of the foot by way of a fastening
Made of a good material that allows a healthy climate inside the shoe
All areas of the shoe offer adequate width and depth to allow normal foot function
The sole is grippy and allows normal foot function

So, when you are doing your Christmas shopping this year, spare a thought for your older relatives this year and give them the gift of slippers, a present they will really appreciate, and will benefit their wellbeing and the nation as a whole!

Enjoy the health benefits of wool

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 15:26:00 GMT

Wool may not be the first fabric which comes to mind when you think of footwear but with natural and sustainable materials gaining popularity, it’s gradually being seen as an excellent alternative to leather.

One of the key features of a healthy shoe is that its climate should promote a healthy environment and wool does the job of that perfectly. As well as being naturally soft and warm, wool is breathable, odour-resistant and wicks away moisture, so your feet stay healthy, fresh and dry. It also has natural climate control, so you can wear it all year round and it’s great for sensitive skin as it’s hypoallergenic.

What makes wool an ideal material for footwear?

Feels soft and comfortable next to bare skin.
Helps feet stay warm in winter and cool in summer due to its natural climate control.
Feet stay healthy and dry as wool is breathable and wicks moisture away from the skin.
You will also sweat less than in a shoe that is made of a synthetic fabric.
Forms to your feet for a comfy fit thanks to the natural elasticity which allows the fabric to gently stretch. In fact, the longer you wear a wool shoe, the comfier it gets.
Ideal for sensitive skin as it’s hypoallergenic.
Feet stay fresh as it’s odour-resistant and resistant to bacteria, mould and mildew.
Complex structure of wool makes it extremely resilient and hardwearing
Naturally renewable resource as each year sheep produce a fleece. The process of shearing sheep also uses less energy than it does to produce synthetic materials.
Easily recycled as it’s biodegradable.
Easy to care for as it can be washed on a wool cycle.
Natural protective outer layer helps prevent stains from being absorbed. And because it tends not to generate static, wool attracts less dust and lint.

Click here to find out more about the Purewool™ range available from Cosyfeet

Summers coming

Wed, 30 May 2018 20:09:00 GMT

So, summer is here and as we cast off our sensible winter shoes, we cast our eyes over our summer footwear and even look to the shops for new inspiration. There’s nothing like “getting your feet out” after a long winter cooped up in closed in shoes and boots, especially after the winter we have just had. However, it’s going to be a summer of foot pain and badly fitting shoes as you can’t get fashionable summer shoes that are good for your feet, or can you? If you keep in mind the Healthy Footwear Guide’s features, then you can apply these to summer footwear too:

A stable heel of approx. 2.5cm.
A good, sturdy heel counter that provides good cosseting.
Good retention of the foot by way of a fastening.
Made of a good material that allows a healthy climate inside the shoe.
All areas of the shoe offer adequate width and depth to allow normal foot function.
The sole is grippy and allows normal foot function.

An increasing number of manufacturers such as DB Shoes, Cosyfeet, Hotters, Padders, Ascent and Vionic, see the importance of healthy fitting summer shoes and have an increasing choice of HFG approved “healthy” footwear. Why not pop along to your local stockist and have a pair properly fitted to see just how comfortable they can be.

But what about insoles if you wear them? Well there are a number of options available. You can purchase summer shoes and sandals which have a removable foot bed allowing an orthotic to be comfortable and discretely inserted in its place. An increasingly popular option is to have custom fitting summer shoes made. They can either be CAD/CAM milled or 3D printed then finished by hand. As they are custom made they can be built to adhere to the HFG guidelines. These surprisingly affordable footwear have to be prescribed so would require a visit to your local friendly Podiatrist/Chiropodist.

If you don’t have orthotics but feel you need an extra bit of support, then there are multiple manufacturers that now sell sandals with arch support built in. Vionic are extremely fashionable and popular and offer great arch support, as well as the newly introduced to the UK Ascent Footwear, have some great sandals.

Whatever you decide to do, it’s comforting to know that summer doesn’t have to be a painful time of the year for your feet. They can be accommodated in properly fitting/ supportive shoes.

What to look for in ‘post sport & work’ recovery footwear

Tue, 03 Apr 2018 07:39:00 GMT

What to look for in ‘post sport & work’ recovery footwear.

Whether it is track and field, netball, cricket, football or even in the workplace, there will be a specific shoe to enhance performance and prevent injury. But what about recovery footwear after sport, or after a long day at work?

We all know the feeling of wanting to get out of enclosed footwear and let your feet breathe. But walking barefoot on hard floors isn’t ideal, particularly when you’re experiencing aches and pains.

As the foot fatigues, the arch tends to flatten out and the ankle rolls in. You also have stressed ligaments, tired muscles, swelling and sensitivity in your feet. The plantar fascia is often stretched as the arch has elongated, and the Achilles can also be strained. How painful!

So considering these factors, what are the requirements for the ideal after sport/ work footwear?

Open footwear

A scuff or thongs/flip flops allow the feet to breathe. A closed in shoe can be constrictive when the foot is swollen and sensitive after rigorous exercise.

Ample support

Orthotic thongs have proven to be popular as after sport footwear. Thongs or Scuffs with a moulded foot-bed can have a significant effect on foot pain, function and foot health.

Soft Cushioning

Stressed ligaments and tired muscles need good cushioning to recover. Whilst a corrective foot bed is important to maintain structure, a soft top layer will help reduce sensitivity in your feet.

Heel to toe drop

Footwear with some elevation at the heel can ease pressure from the Achilles tendon. Most sport shoes will have between 4-12mm drop from heel to toe. Going from a structured sport shoe to barefoot while the foot is cooling can be a recipe for injury. The ideal recovery thong will have a similar heel-toe elevation.

Plantar Fascia relief

With so much stress underneath the foot, recovery footwear should avoid applying too much pressure on the plantar fascia. A plantar fascia groove carved into an orthotic foot-bed can provide the necessary support while reducing pressure underneath the foot.

The Ascent Groove is a dual density orthotic thong that meets all requirements for recovery footwear. The firm base layer is engineered with a 12mm offset and a plantar fascia groove. The top layer is super soft for maximum comfort. The Groove sets a new benchmark in after sports footwear:

www.ascentfootwear.com.au/groove

So, what is Plantar Fasciitis?

Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:06:00 GMT

Whilst we are keen to ensure that everyone wears healthy footwear, we appreciate that sometimes you just want that pair of shoes that just look “oh so good”! Whilst we would not want to dissuade you from making this style statement perhaps you should consider the health of your feet before you make that final purchase decision...

Did you know that the single most common cause of foot pain is Plantar Fasciitis? A staggering 10% of people in the UK are suffering from it right now, that’s 6m people in pain.

So, what is Plantar Fasciitis? The Fascia is a ligament stretching from the heel to the toes. Plantar just referred to its position in the foot (the Plantar surface). During everyday activity this ligament continually stretches and contracts, however where the ligament inserts into the heel it can become inflamed and because when walking or running our heel strikes the ground first this pain is exacerbated. Over time the body can try to compensate for this pain by forming a bony “protective” growth over this insertion point, causing a” heel spur”, which in itself causes further pain on walking.

“So, what has this to do with footwear?” I hear you ask. Simply put, poor quality shoes may not give your feet the support they need to prevent this painful condition; footwear that cannot accommodate a simple supportive insole (or medical grade orthotic) will prevent you inserting a device that can help to realign your feet (stopping excess pronation – inward rolling of the feet), thereby allowing the pressure you feel as you stand to be directed towards the outside of your feet where it should be felt; similarly, you may not be able to use cushioned heel supports or padding to offload some of the discomfort. So the shoes you select and ultimately wear can have a significant impact on your future comfort.

Your doctor may be able to give some advice but remember that a podiatrist is a specialist trained entirely in treating medical conditions affecting the foot (whether skin, bone or soft tissue related). So, if you have heel pain consider seeing a podiatrist to get a formal diagnosis.

If you are diagnosed with this painful condition, then all is not lost: Purchase good quality footwear which conforms to the standards as laid out by the Healthy Footwear Guide. Use orthotics or supportive insoles as recommended by your podiatrist to compensate for any poor foot alignment. Follow a regime of compression and stretching exercises provided by your podiatrist to help manage any painful symptoms. Consider ice therapy to reduce the swelling and bring welcome relief from the pain.

Take spring & summer in your stride

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 17:36:00 GMT

Take spring & summer in your stride

The end of winter is just around the corner and when the weather warms up, we can finally let our feet enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. However, although it can feel liberating to kick off your sturdy winter boots, spring and summer shoes are not always the most foot-friendly footwear.

During winter, we tend to wear stronger and more supportive footwear. During the warmer months, it can be tempting to put convenience ahead of the health of your feet. Flip flops, for example, with their no-frills design, are easy to throw on and go with almost any outfit but they were never really intended to be worn beyond the beach or pool. That’s because they don’t offer any arch or heel support and you have to grip them with your toes to keep them on. This can contribute to one of summer’s most common foot injuries, metatarsalgia. This is when the ball of the foot becomes inflamed and it can be extremely painful. Flip flops are also easier to trip in which can lead to bumps, bruises, sprained ankles and even broken toes.

If you want your feet to stay cool, comfy and protected, then a decent pair of sandals is your best bet. A healthy sandal should provide support, protection and cushioning. It also needs to have adequate width and depth for correct foot function. If warmer weather causes your feet to swell, then look for sandals with a lace or touch-fastening strap which can be adjusted over the course of the day.

Many sandals are designed with an open toe, but they may not be suitable if you have sensitive or unsightly toes. If you want to protect or conceal your toes, there are plenty of ‘shandal’ styles around which offer the ventilation of a sandal with the protection a shoe.

If you need to wear an orthotic, it’s still possible to wear sandals. Look for styles which have a closed back and sides. The closed sides will allow you to wear a half or full length orthotic while the closed back will help to hold the orthotic in place.

Maintaining good hygiene can also help to ensure healthy feet during the spring and summer months. One of the recommendations from the Healthy Footwear Guide is to choose footwear which promotes a healthy environment within the shoe. Genuine leather shoes or sandals allow your feet to breathe and sweat to escape, whereas synthetic styles trap perspiration and don’t allow the foot to breathe. You may also want to look for sandals which have a sanitised footbed. This will hinder the production of bacteria and stop unpleasant odours from developing.

Another common problem associated with wearing sandals and flip flops is severely cracked and dry heels. When shoes don't have a back, and nothing is cupping the heel and holding the fat pad on your heel in place, it tends to splay out. The skin follows suit and eventually cracks. If you tend to suffer from dry heels, look for sandals with a closed back.

January sales.

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 17:41:07 GMT

Now the excitement of Christmas and fuzzy heads of New Year’s Day have passed, most people’s thoughts turn to the January sales and the bargains to be had there. Browsing the shops, you might find the perfect shoes for you and they are a bargain at 50% off. Only trouble is they have every size except the one you want. Never mind you think, I will squeeze into a size smaller or make do with a size larger, they are a bargain after all! But how much of a bargain are they really?

Squeeze into a smaller pair and rubs and blisters quickly develop and if left untreated can go on to form corns which will require expensive Podiatric treatment. Any bunions would be squeezed which would lead to worsening in pain and maybe even an increase in deformity. On the more painful end of the spectrum, the pressure from the shoes could lead to neuromas and ingrowing nails which can only be treated by expensive surgeries.

Conversely, loose fitting shoes would undoubtedly cause blisters as the foot slops around inside the shoe which have the potential to become infected if not kept in check, which is especially dangerous for diabetics. As the foot is not properly supported, it will move round freely when it shouldn’t which could lead to a buildup in callus (hard skin) on the feet. More worrying than this, an unsupported foot could lead to pain in the ankles, knees, hips, back and neck!

But you are probably saying “it’s only a pair of shoes, how can they cause that many problems?”. Our feet are the only point of contact with the ground our body has, much like tyres on a car. If they are not properly supported and allowed to be misaligned, then this will have a knock-on effect on other parts of the body. So, before you jump in and buy that bargain pair of shoes, think and ask yourself are they THAT much of a bargain?

Always try to adhere to the Healthy Footwear Guide’s features:

Toe box allows normal foot function.
Adequate width and depth for foot function.
Sole encourages normal foot function.
Soft flexible upper and lining.
Stable heel of approximately 25mm.
In shoe climate which promotes a healthy environment within the shoe.
Shoe provides reasonable cosseting.
Shoe retains its’ fitness for purpose.
Shoe must offer good foot retention.
Availability of product advice.
Outsole grip meets industry standards.

Selecting the right house shoes

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 16:13:00 GMT

Whilst it might be tempting to just kick off your shoes when you arrive home after a busy day, there are lots of very great reasons for wearing good, supportive footwear around the house. Shiny laminated flooring and ceramic floor tiles can look beautiful, but can be slippery. Stairs, especially uncarpeted stairs, can be lethal - so too can scatter rugs. Accidents can happen so easily, but many falls can be avoided by wearing correctly fitted, supportive footwear.

House shoes need not be 'clumpy' and inelegant - there are many attractive silhouettes, colours and styles available on the internet or at specialist retailers nationwide. House shoes can look and feel just like slippers, (many are made from soft, plush fabrics), but the best are designed in the style of a shoe, to give added support and comfort.

Wearing supportive house and slippers is especially important for people with foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, corns, callouses or bunions. The key, of course, is to find just the right style and fit for you. While there are lots of house shoes and slippers available on the High Street, many offer little or no support and can actually be dangerous if they are of flimsy construction. So what are the particular features that are worth searching for in a house shoe?

Look for a hard-wearing, lightweight sole, which is capable of all day wear, both inside, and if necessary outside, so that there's no need to keep changing your shoes if you pop out. A wide flat sole provides a stable base for walking.

Search for house shoes with touch-fastening straps that open up for easy foot entry. Touch-fastening straps can be positioned longer or shorter as required, so that they adjust to your foot. Some even have elasticated straps for optimal flexibility.

Look inside the house shoe to see if the insoles are removable. Removing insoles creates extra depth if needed or allows you to insert your own orthotics if required.

Look for manufacturers who offer variable fittings, which are designed to give you maximum fit flexibility and are ideal if your feet swell or change shape during the course of a day.

Search for styles with few internal seams and seam-free toe boxes, especially if you are shopping for people who suffer from diabetes-related foot problems. A seam-free shoe interior will reduce the possibility of rubbing and chaffing.

Make sure that the house shoe features a back stiffener built into the back panel for added stability and support. Without a stiffener, the shoe fabric can crumple and fold.

Obviously, do try to choose styles that have been recognised by the Healthy Footwear Guide. The HFG recommends only 'healthy shoes'.

Winter-Proofing Your Feet

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 16:09:00 GMT

It’s that time of the year again when we all look at our closets and ruminate if the flowing dresses and thin cardigans ought to be replaced by woollen jumpers and thermals…However, not all of us consider the importance of our shoe rack with the seasonal change!

Our feet are some of the hardest working areas of the body, capable of taking our weight in a small surface area while keeping us mobile. It’s easy enough to overlook it but as with other parts of us, it does need attention.

With the change in weather and temperature, open footwear such as sandals and flip flops should be put aside or thrown away and sturdier, closed shoes made more prominent in our wardrobe. We might have that comfortable pair of boots that we use year in, year out but it’s time to see if that is enough to ensure our feet stay protected this cold season.

So what should you do? Here’s some handy tips to check if your shoes are ready for winter:

Check the soles. Are the treads still prominent or has too much use smoothed them out, thereby making it easy for you to slip in icy weather? It’s good advice to have them professionally repaired/re-soled if that’s the case. Are there any areas where the sole is coming apart from the upper – that is where the rain water is going to get in. In this case, a new pair would be more appropriate.
Make sure the fastenings (laces, strap fastenings, zips) are in good condition. They are a major support for the top of the foot and ensure your feet are kept snug in your shoes.
Waterproof your shoes. As with the variable (British) weather, rain and snow is a given. Water is a major enemy of leather – and its variants suede and nubuck – and too much moisture makes them degrade further. No one wants wet feet! A good waterproofing spray is available in most shoe stores and there are different ones for whatever material your shoes made of. Make sure to spray them regularly but in a well-ventilated area.
Have you developed any foot problems such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, or hammer toes? Then it might be time to go to a dedicated specialist footwear shop where they can advise you whether the Old Faithful is still the right pair of shoes for you. Remember to take any foot orthoses with you if you have had them prescribed.

It also helps with insulation for your feet to wear good quality merino wool based socks, which provide warmth but are made of natural fibres to ensure that enough air circulates to prevent smelly feet. Toes are quite susceptible to the cold, and if not well-protected can get numb and then painful.

Keeping your feet happy and healthy means you can stay on the dance floor longer during your Christmas parties!

Visit us over the next two days at Foot Health Kettering

Tue, 20 Jun 2017 10:05:20 GMT

We are stand 30 over the next two days 20th and 21st June at Foot Health Kettering.

Visit the HFG at Foot Health 2017 Kettering

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 16:06:07 GMT

Foot Health is now well established as the largest independent conference for podiatrists in the UK attracting over 1000 visitors. FootHealth 2017 will return to centrally located Kettering Conference Centre.

Invited delegates include Podiatrists, Physiotherapists, GPs and other interested health professionals.

Visit the HFG at Foot Health 2017

Confirmed speakers include:

Ivan Bristow, Nat Padhir, Val Edwards-Jones, Heidi Swanson and James Welsh.

Kettering Conference Centre has a large FREE CAR PARK and Kettering main line railway station is a short taxi ride from the centre.

Both Days - 12 hours CPD (£22.00) + VAT
Day 1 - 6 hours CPD (£14.00) + VAT
Day 2 - 6 hours CPD (£14.00) + VAT

To book a place at the conference click here

New Company joins the HFG

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 14:03:00 GMT

The HFG would like to welcome Luke Bevis and Ascent footwear to the Healthy Footwear Guide. Ascent is a proven, innovative Australian born and bred footwear brand.

The brand started with a sporting shoe heritage and has taken this technology into categories of footwear that have not previously had this type of comfort and support; School, Business, Walking, Work and Safety shoes.

Ascent works very closely with special interest groups along with Podiatry, Physiotherapy, Amputee & Diabetes associations to make sure their footwear yields therapeutic benefits or aids in the management or prevention of various foot ailments.

They are currently selling their children’s footwear in the UK and had a very successful launch in August 2016. They plan to extend their UK range (into Adults) in mid-2017

https://www.ascentfootwear.co.uk/

http://www.ascentfootwear.com.au/

Fit not frumpy conference.

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 19:34:53 GMT

The Society of Shoe fitters and the Healthy Footwear guide held their first ever joint conference at The University of Northampton on Monday 19^th September 2016. The event attracted approximately 80 delegates and considered the importance of shoe fit. Recent research was presented which supported the need for shoe fitting, provided guidance to inform the shoe fitting process and to offer some insights into developmental work in the footwear industry. Additionally, presentations were given from expert shoe fitters based on their experiences in the industry to show why professional shoe fitting is so important for the health of the Nation. The conference was relevant to shoe fitters, clinicians working with footwear and those undertaking research on footwear and shoe fit. The conference was generously supported by the University of Northampton and the University of Salford. The conference was opened by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Northampton Professor Nick Petford and there were concluding remarks from Dr Steve O’Brien, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, The University of Northampton.

The programme summary can be found below;

Welcome and Introduction (Professor Wesley Vernon OBE, President, the Society of Shoe Fitters)

“If the Shoe Fits: A footwear choice toolkit”. Keynote Lecture (Professor Victoria Robinson, Director of Learning & Teaching / Professor of Sociology, York University)

“The importance of Fitting Adults Footwear” (Gwenda Carter, Orthopaedic Footwear Consultant [retired], Council Member, the Society of Shoe Fitters)

“The work of the Society of Shoe Fitters” (Laura West, Secretary, the Society of Shoe Fitters & Tanya Marriott, Council Member, the Society of Shoe Fitters)

“The Healthy Footwear Guide Scheme” (Assoc. Professor Mike Curran, the University of Northampton, Chair, the Healthy Footwear Guide Scheme)

Orthotics: “Myth busting!” (Veronica Newton, Lecturer, the University of Salford)

“Faced with Orthotics that don’t fit” (Rosemary Gray, Council of the Society of Shoe Fitters)

New technology in footwear design (Professor Chris Nester, the University of Salford)

“Leather as a footwear material” (Rachel Garwood, Director of the Institute for Creative Leather Technologies [ICLT])

“Footwear: A fitting design” (Chris Hill, Senior Lecturer in Footwear and Accessories, the University of Northampton)

“What kind of animal is a Faux?” (Amanda Michel, Director of Leather Wise Ltd)

Footwear in diagnosis: The use of wear features of shoes” (Professor Wesley Vernon OBE, President, the Society of Shoe Fitters)

There was also a trade exhibition supported by the following;

Shoe Med, DB Footwear, Pedag,The Cordwainer, Hotters, Ecco, Treflex and Cosyfeet

Dr Mike Curran Chair of the HFG stated that the feedback from the day was excellent and it was hoped to have further events held with the Society of Shoe fitters.

Healthy Feet

Manikins Get New Slippers

Friendly Shoes join the HFG-a warm welcome to you.

Cosyfeet achieves platinum in US and UK

Cosyfeet wins Platinum with Feefo

Anti-Fatigue Footwear

Download article

The role of footwear in preventing slips, trips and falls in the workplace.

Can shoes be comfortable, functional, healthy AND attractive?

Give the Gift of Slippers this Christmas

Enjoy the health benefits of wool

Wool may not be the first fabric which comes to mind when you think of footwear but with natural and sustainable materials gaining popularity, it’s gradually being seen as an excellent alternative to leather.

What makes wool an ideal material for footwear?

Feels soft and comfortable next to bare skin.

Helps feet stay warm in winter and cool in summer due to its natural climate control.

Feet stay healthy and dry as wool is breathable and wicks moisture away from the skin.

You will also sweat less than in a shoe that is made of a synthetic fabric.

Forms to your feet for a comfy fit thanks to the natural elasticity which allows the fabric to gently stretch. In fact, the longer you wear a wool shoe, the comfier it gets.

Ideal for sensitive skin as it’s hypoallergenic.

Feet stay fresh as it’s odour-resistant and resistant to bacteria, mould and mildew.

Complex structure of wool makes it extremely resilient and hardwearing

Naturally renewable resource as each year sheep produce a fleece. The process of shearing sheep also uses less energy than it does to produce synthetic materials.

Easily recycled as it’s biodegradable.

Easy to care for as it can be washed on a wool cycle.

Natural protective outer layer helps prevent stains from being absorbed. And because it tends not to generate static, wool attracts less dust and lint.