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Understanding your foot shape for true comfort

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At Mikko Shoes, you’ll know that our team are incredibly passionate about finding the right fit for every foot that walks through our doors.

It’s why I launched Mikko in 2013 - because I know first-hand how much both fashion and function play an integral part in how we feel overall. 

When it comes to finding the perfect footwear fit, there are many factors that create a comfortable shoe – from the centuries of perfected design and honed craftsmanship, to using premium materials, and integration of clever modern technology.

Another factor of equal importance, but often overlooked, is choosing the right style to fit the specific shape of your feet. 

There are three main factors to consider:

1.         Understanding your general foot shape
2.         Matching the right shoe styles for your foot shape
3.         Addressing any unique needs to optimise foot comfort

1. Understanding your general foot shape

The shape, alignment and length of your toes determine your foot shape and there are three main shapes that are universal: Egyptian, Roman and Greek. (Note that these names are less about genetics and ancestry, and are based on historial observations in art from these ancient civilisations).

Take a look at our guide below and compare each example to your foot - which shape looks most like yours?

different feet shapes

2. Matching the right shoe styles for your foot shape

Footwear comfort is related to finding the right toe shape.

Quality shoe design generally features one of five toe box shapes:

different toe box shapes

Now that you have identified your foot shape, see our guide below to find the most comfortable shoe shape for your feet.

This guide by no means rules out other styles for you, but you will probably find better comfort in a shoe shape that suits your foot shape.

styles for different shapes

3. Addressing any unique needs to optimise foot comfort

Many of us will have additional unique requirements to consider for our feet. Below are just a few additional factors worth keeping in mind when selecting a new shoe, to ensure the most comfortable fit possible:

If you have bunions or wider feet, lean towards a rounder and wider toe box.

If you have a naturally high arch, look for high tech styles that provide specific arch support, and pick a mid or block heel for added stability.

If you have flat feet or a particularly dropped arch, look for a combination of a wider toe box, arch support, and a mid to low heel height.

If you suffer from a diagnosed foot pain, rocker style wedges may ease discomfort and you’ll want to pick styles that are orthotic friendly.

If you suffer from back pain, you’ll want to stick to a heel height recommended by a professional. As weight distribution across the shoe is integral for comfort, consider a block heel or wedge for added stability.

If you’re unsure – we can help! Our friendly and professionally trained team are here to support you with in-person fittings. For those who can’t make it to our stores, we encourage you to give us a call to talk you through the variety of options. We have a generous exchange policy and complimentary shipping on all purchases of $100 or more.

Our seasonal collection, is, as always, thoughtfully curated with a broad range of shoe shapes and styles on offer. With a variety of brands that take different approaches to design and fit, we have a diverse offering to suit almost every foot shape.

We look forward to seeing you in store soon.

Michaela and team,
Mikko Shoes founder

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About Mikko
In 2013 we launched Mikko Shoes to offer an extensive range of European hand selected and handcrafted quality shoes for New Zealand women that want style and comfort in their footwear. More than just a stockist of stylish shoes that will go the distance, our team at Mikko are professionally trained in fitting and styling, ready to help you find your perfect pair. We have footwear that is orthotic and wide feet friendly. Mikko is a New Zealand, family-owned business.

Enjoy free shipping with all online orders of $100 or more! Read more about how it works on our website here.

Like our Facebook and Instagram page to see the latest European styles as they land in NZ and be the first to know about our regular competitions. Visit one of our 5 stores to experience the Mikko difference or shop online, and for our new Men’s offering, pop over to Mikko Men’s!

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