He also cautions that built-in arch support can be hit or miss. “Any side-to-side bending is a clear indication of lack of support, which could contribute to eventual discomfort or pain.” The only bendable part should be the ball of the foot.
“I tell my patients if they can wring their shoe like a washcloth, they aren’t getting any support,” Hill says. One at-home (or in-store) test for support is to try twisting the shoe.
