91��������

Not all boots are created equal, and the same goes for other types of footwear. 

It’s something podiatric surgeon urges visitors to the to bear in mind as they hit the grounds by the hundreds of thousands over the course of the annual 10-day rodeo and entertainment event, putting on the miles as they hike up and down the largely pavement terrain for hours and even days on end. 

With inadequate footwear that kind of pavement pounding can lead not only to sore, blistered feet but also to such painful, debilitating afflictions as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis.

“The Stampede grounds are primarily concrete and with harder surfaces we need comfortable, supportive footwear,” says Manji, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at 91��������'s . “The key features for quality footwear would be good, comfortable arch support, stiffness in the sole and slight elevation in the heel. You generally want to avoid flatter footwear as well, as that doesn’t provide a whole lot of arch support.”

Of course, at Stampede time the cowboy boots come out of the closet as the footwear of choice for the western themed event. How do they fare on the grounds?

“Well constructed, good quality cowboy boots can be quite appropriate to wear for long periods of time,” says Manji. He adds that primary factors in a suitable cowboy boot would include “adequate space in the toe box, a well-constructed heel and a fit that ensures there’s no areas of friction, allowing the foot to fit comfortably within the boot for extended periods of time.”

But because most Stampede-goers only wear their cowboy boots at this time of year, the history of the boots should always be a consideration. “Comfort is not typical with a boot that’s brand new,” notes Manji. “It takes time to break them in. Conversely, overuse, with many years or miles on the boots tends to wear them down. You can usually notice wear along the outside of the heel, and if the heel is too worn out it will cause the boot to sit unevenly on the floor in a standing position. When that’s the case it’s probably time to look at either replacing the boot or having it repaired.”

These check points can also be applied to other forms of footwear that will be found on the Stampede grounds, including shoes, sandals, flip-flops, and even high heeled shoes or boots.

Manji adds that with flatter footwear such as flip flops or certain types of sandals and shoes, a stiff sole is essential. “In these cases, I recommend testing the soles because stiffness in the sole provides the needed support for long periods of walking,” he says. “If the sole feels flimsy, it might be a good time to replace the shoe."

Despite their bad reputation for female discomfort, high heels don’t have to be off-limits either. “Surprisingly, heels are not the worst thing and sometimes they can actually be quite protective for the foot and ankle,” Manji says. “When you’re wearing a heel, it reduces strain in the back of the foot and ankle, and it relaxes the tissues in that area. But it also brings more pressure to the front of the foot and that’s where the focus has often been. But a good pair of heels can be very comfortable for some people.”

With heels, as with other types of footwear, the discussion should include such considerations as the amount of time one plans to spend on their feet and the environment on which they’ll be standing.

“Heels might be the perfect footwear for an hour or two in the day," says Manji. “It might be a good Stampede strategy to switch your heels out for something more supportive later in the day.”

It’s always a wise idea to consider one’s individual experiences with foot wellness and plan accordingly, he adds. “We’re usually aware of the areas of our feet that may need more protection and support. Choosing the appropriate footwear for the activities we’re planning is never a bad idea.”

If extra foot support is needed, over-the-counter orthotics might also be helpful, in some cases.

“There are many options which can give people the flexibility to enjoy as much Stampede time as possible.”