Every look is incomplete if you don’t wear the right shoes to compliment it. Apart from being a necessity due to the protection they provide, shoes are an imperative element to the overall fashion statement.
This might be why the footwear sector is faring so well for itself. As per Statista, in the US, the total revenue generated by the sector reached 91.1 billion USD in 2019! On average, approximately 277 USD was generated per person.
The fact that the sector is so profitable means that there are a lot of options for consumers to choose from. And considering the types and variety of shoes available, it is easy to get confused when you are out for shoe shopping.
To ensure that you select the right footwear, here are things you must keep in mind.
Quality
Who doesn’t love crazy discounts and sales? However, it is important not to be swayed by them to the extent that you don’t consider the quality of the shoe when purchasing it.
Regardless of what price you are paying, make sure that the quality of the footwear is worth the money spent. For instance, maybe PU leather-made shoes look like a good choice for you since they look visually stunning and are cost-effective. But, if you are planning to wear it every day, it will wear out soon!
So, make sure to match your frequency of usage to the quality of your footwear. Always opt for high-quality material to ensure that your shoes last a long time. Think of it as an investment. In the long-run, you will be saving up on the cost of replacing your shoes again and again.
Fit
Do you usually rely on a given shoe size when purchasing footwear? Well, this isn’t the right way to go if you want shoes that perfectly fit.
The chance of all brands you come across having the exact same sizes is quite less. Therefore, it is much better to try on shoes before purchasing them. And don’t just try the size you think is yours. Instead, try at least three sizes to see which fit perfectly.
Try it out and walk around the store to make sure that the size is perfect and comfortable. The salesperson might try to sell you an uncomfortable pair by saying that “they will wear in.” But, don’t opt for such shoes. You can never be sure if the shoes will get comfortable with time!
Moreover, some materials tend to expand a bit with use. Make sure to leave some room for this to ensure that you don’t end up with loose footwear. Only purchase the product once you are certain that it ticks the right boxes.
Sustainability
We are living at a time when we are clearly seeing the effect humans are having on the planet and the environment. According to a study by Quantis, the fashion sector (including footwear) accounts for over 8 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, and hence global warming.
While sustainable fashion wasn’t a big deal a few years ago, the rapid deterioration of the planet has changed the opinions of many. As per Grandview research, the global sustainable footwear market is estimated to have a market value of 7.5 billion USD in 2019.
Therefore, if you can afford it, it is better to opt for a sustainable shoe company. Such brands use sustainable material and energy-efficient production to deliver their product. This tends to translate to a higher price of the shoes. But, it is not a bad price to pay when you are contributing to sustainable living.
Workmanship
Regardless of how great and premium the raw material is, it doesn’t boil down to much if it is not handled and used properly. The workmanship should be impeccable to truly make shoes worth the price.
Analyze each product you like. See if you can detect any bad stitching or manufacturing error. An ill-designed shoe can end up causing you cuts and blisters. Similarly, heels that are not properly made can end up breaking off at the worst moments. And no one likes dealing with a broken heel!
So, don’t be afraid to turn into a detective when shoe shopping. You may seem like a nuisance to the salesperson, but you will end up with great footwear. And that is what matters the most.
Ending Remarks
You might have heard of the famous saying, “Good shoes take you to good places.”
This is surely true.
Sometimes even the most ordinary looks end up looking phenomenal because of the footwear chosen. And this can help you in making a lasting impact on everyone.
Consider the right factors when selecting your shoes, and you are most likely to make a decision you will never regret it!
Good luck.
