Recently, I decided to go for a jog after not running at all for more than [redacted] years. I did a half-marathon a couple of presidential administrations ago, so surely it would be fine? It was! Until the next morning, when I rolled out of bed, put my feet on the floor and felt a sharp pain in my heel.
Each step dumps impact equivalent to several times your body weight straight through your feet. Small problem: feet weren't designed for concrete. They evolved for dirt, grass, and uneven natural surfaces that absorb some shock. Pavement absorbs nothing. Your feet handle everything. That stabbing pain in your heel the next morning? Plantar fascia-the ligament running along your arch-got inflamed from repetitive pounding. Takes about 15,000 steps before it starts protesting. You went 10,000 past that point.
As a shopping editor, I'm always game to test new brands or try out a trending product, but in all honesty, I'm one of those people who likes to repurchase the same thing over and over again. What can I say? I'm a brand loyalist-when I find a protein powder, pair of jeans, or scented candle I like, I'll buy it time and time again, making sure that I'll never have to live a single day without my tried-and-true favorites.
FitFlop makes these dual-strap leather sandals that are low-key and not overtly a support shoe, even though that is exactly what they are. The arches are contoured to keep your foot in a good position and disperse pressure.
