If it’s time to make the trip to the shoe store for spring shoes, you’re not alone. Whether you are shopping for your child’s sports shoes or searching for a comfortable pair of sandals, now is the time. While you may love shopping, are you doing it the right way? As podiatrists, we have a few boxes that we think you should check.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC Dr. Anant Joshi is committed to helping patients make changes at home and in the stores that could provide long-term benefits for their feet and ankles.

Here are three suggestions:

Wear comfortable shoes

Would you believe that many people are wearing not-so-comfortable shoes while shoe shopping? Yes, it happens. Prepare for a shoe shopping day by wearing supportive shoes. There is a chance that you may be visiting multiple stores. Wearing comfortable shoes is a top recommendation, but do you also consider how easy it is to take them off and put them back on? That’s right — you’re trying on shoes. Make the process as stress-free as possible.

Walk around the store

Congratulations! You found the shoes of your choice. Have you walked around the store? With all the excitement of finding a shoe that fits, many people forget to put both shoes on and walk around the store. Does the left shoe feel as comfortable as the right one? Sitting down with a shoe on is very different from taking a walk around the store. Also, make sure you are wearing socks while trying on shoes that require them.

When in doubt, ask questions

Unfortunately, we have learned of people settling for a shoe size a half size too small simply because they didn’t see the box in the store. Ask the store representative to see if the size is in the back of the store. Perhaps it is available at another location nearby? Please don’t settle for the wrong size. We also recommend asking about reviews on shoes. What have other people said?

Before you put on your shopping shoes, follow our tips: