If the shoe fits.....



Foot health is not just for the local bunion chiseler, it's a priority! If you don't take of your feet, your feet won't take care of you. How can you expect to function as a productive member of your survival group if you can't even keep your own feet in good condition?

Rule No. 1 of foot care: Make sure your boots fit. Many foot problems originate in poorly-fitting shoes. There are lots of different brands of boots out there, and there is no time limit at the store for trying them on. This is probably the most important article of clothing that you'll own in a collapse situation, so spend the time to get the best fit! Things to know:

Shoe size changes as you get older, or after a pregnancy, or even during a particular day!
Go to the store after a day of walking, when your feet are a little larger than other times.
Most of us have one foot that's larger than the other. Make sure your boots fit both feet (the larger one especially).

Each part of your foot should be comfortable in your new boots. The ball of your foot should fit the widest part of the shoe without issue. There should be about 1/2 inch or so from the end of your toes to the end of your shoe. The upper part of the shoe should be flexible enough to not cause discomfort on your instep. Your heel should not slip up and down when you walk. Soles should be thick Vibram. Highcut boots will help prevent ankle sprains by giving more support and will protect against the occasional snake bite.

Don't buy shoes that are too tight and expect them to stretch. They might, but you'll go through a lot of discomfort to get them there. You might be used to buying shoes online but you really should walk in a shoe first before making any purchase decisions.

Heavier boots, like steel-toed, are great if you're chopping wood (you get to keep all ten of your toes) but are heavy. Remember that an extra pound of weight in your boot is like 5 extra pounds of weight on your back! Getting soft, flexible uppers will help. If you have a favorite pair of boots, but a spare pair or two now when they are available, unless you can count "shoemaker" as one of your survival skills.

An old saying goes: A 1000 mile journey begins with the first step. In a collapse, put your best foot forward!

Dr. Bones