The Orthofeet Blog

 Learning how to choose hiking boots properly can transform your outdoor experiences from painful endurance tests to enjoyable adventures. The best boots provide the foundation for comfortable hiking, offering support, protection, and stability that allow you to focus on the trail ahead rather than your aching feet. With countless options available, understanding what features matter most helps you make an informed decision. Quality hiking boots serve as your connection to the trail, affecting everything from your balance and safety to your overall enjoyment of the outdoors. Whether you're planning day hikes on well-maintained trails or multi-day backpacking trips through rugged terrain, the boots you choose play a crucial role in your success and comfort. Understanding these essentials becomes even more important when comparing different styles of hiking boots suited for various terrains and foot types. Why the Right Hiking Boots Matter for Foot Health Hiking boots play a crucial role in protecting your feet, ankles, and joints during long hikes or challenging terrain. Unlike smooth, predictable surfaces, hiking or backpacking in the mountains involves uneven ground, rocks, roots, and varying inclines that can cause discomfort in your feet when standing for extended periods. Quality boots provide the stability and protection needed to navigate these challenges safely. Even in colder seasons, understanding cold-weather walking benefits can help hikers maintain circulation, reduce stiffness, and stay active year-round. The consequences of poorly fitting or unsupportive boots become magnified during hiking activities, leading many people to question whether boots are good for their feet. Blisters that might be minor annoyances during daily activities can become debilitating on the trail, potentially ending your hike prematurely. Arch pain from inadequate support intensifies over miles of walking, while ankle strain from insufficient stability can lead to sprains or falls on uneven terrain [1]. Many hikers also appreciate learning winter hiking tips to stay safe and comfortable when trails become icy, snowy, or less predictable. Choosing the right hiking boots can prevent fatigue, injuries, and long-term foot problems, and orthopedic boots are especially worth considering for those with sensitive feet or existing conditions. Hikers with conditions like plantar fasciitis need boots that provide superior arch support and cushioning to prevent painful flare-ups during long hikes. The cumulative stress of hiking in inadequate footwear affects not just your feet but your entire kinetic chain. Poor support can lead to compensatory movements that stress your knees, hips, and lower back. Quality hiking boots help maintain proper alignment and reduce stress throughout your body. Orthofeet hiking boots for women and men’s hiking boots combine comfort, support, and durability for hikers of all levels, recognizing that foot health is fundamental to hiking enjoyment. Advanced features like orthotic insoles and ergonomic design help ensure that your feet remain comfortable and supported throughout your hiking adventures. Key Features to Look for in Supportive Hiking Boots Understanding the essential elements that make hiking shoes and boots comfortable and supportive helps you evaluate options and make informed decisions. These features work together to create a comprehensive support system for your feet during hiking activities. Arch Support for Proper Alignment Proper arch support in hiking boots helps reduce strain and maintains correct foot alignment during the varied movements of hiking. Your arches act as natural shock absorbers, but they need support to function effectively under the stress of carrying a pack and navigating uneven terrain. Quality arch support distributes pressure evenly across your foot and helps prevent the collapse that leads to overpronation. Effective arch support also improves your overall stability on uneven surfaces. When your feet are properly supported and aligned, you have a more stable platform for balance, reducing the risk of ankle rolls or falls on challenging terrain. Cushioned Midsoles for Shock Absorption Cushioned midsoles provide essential shock absorption and comfort on rocky or steep paths where each step can create significant impact forces. The repeated stress of backpacking downhill or walking on mountainous, rocky surfaces can be particularly hard on your feet and joints. Quality midsole cushioning absorbs these impact forces before they can travel up through your legs. Hikers often seek practical ways to enhance comfort, leading many to explore methods for making boots more comfortable before embarking on longer trails. Modern midsole materials offer varying levels of cushioning and responsiveness. Softer cushioning provides immediate comfort but may compress over time, while firmer materials offer better longevity and energy return. The best hiking boots balance these characteristics to provide both comfort and performance. Ankle Support and Stability Ankle support and stability features help prevent rolling injuries and provide confidence on uneven terrain. High-cut boots offer maximum ankle protection, while mid-cut designs provide moderate support with increased flexibility. The choice depends on your hiking style, the terrain you'll encounter, and your personal preference for flexibility versus protection. Proper ankle support becomes particularly important when backpacking or hiking on loose or uneven surfaces. The additional weight of a backpack raises your center of gravity and increases the forces involved if your ankle begins to roll. Breathable Yet Water-Resistant Materials Hiking boots need to balance breathability with weather protection to keep your feet dry and comfortable in various conditions. Breathable materials allow moisture from perspiration to escape while preventing external moisture from entering. This balance is crucial for maintaining foot health during long hikes where moisture management becomes critical [2]. Proper insulation and moisture control also play a crucial role in keeping feet warm in cold weather, especially during long winter hikes. Water-resistant treatments and materials protect against trail conditions like stream crossings, morning dew, or light rain. However, completely waterproof boots may trap moisture from perspiration, making breathability even more important in the boot's design. Durable Traction Soles Quality traction soles provide safe grip on different terrains, from smooth rock to muddy trails. The sole pattern, rubber compound, and overall design affect how well your boots grip various surfaces. Deep lugs work well in soft conditions like mud or loose dirt, while smaller, closer-together patterns provide better grip on hard surfaces. The durability of the sole material affects both safety and boot longevity. Softer rubber compounds typically provide better grip but wear faster, while harder compounds last longer but may not grip as well on smooth surfaces. Roomy Toe Box Design A roomy toe box allows natural movement and reduces pressure on your toes during long hikes. Your feet can naturally swell during extended activity, and a cramped toe box can become uncomfortable or even painful as your hike progresses. Adequate toe room also prevents black toenails and other injuries that can result from your toes hitting the front of the boot on steep descents. The toe box should provide enough space for your toes to move naturally without being so large that your foot slides around inside the boot. This balance is crucial for both comfort and proper foot function during hiking. These features work together to improve endurance and reduce pain during long treks, allowing you to enjoy your time on the trail rather than struggling with foot discomfort. How to Find the Best Fit for Your Hiking Style Achieving the perfect fit requires attention to both the physical characteristics of the boots and how they match your specific hiking needs. Proper fitting techniques and understanding different boot categories help ensure you choose boots that will serve you well on the trail. Fitting Techniques for Optimal Comfort Try hiking boots with the same socks you plan to hike in, as sock thickness significantly affects fit and comfort. Hiking socks are typically thicker than regular socks and may have cushioning in specific areas. Testing boots with your actual hiking socks ensures you get an accurate sense of how they'll feel on the trail. Measure your feet later in the day when they are slightly swollen, simulating how they'll feel during a long hike. Your feet can naturally swell throughout the day and during physical activity, so trying on boots when your feet are at their largest helps prevent boots that feel tight during actual use. Ensure adequate toe room by checking that you have about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the front of the boot. This extra space prevents your toes from hitting the front of the boot during steep descents, which can cause painful bruising or black toenails. Check for a snug but not tight heel fit to prevent blisters and maintain control of the boot. Your heel should not slip up and down as you walk, but the boot shouldn't be so tight that it restricts circulation or creates pressure points. Testing Boot Performance Walk on an incline or uneven surface when testing boots to evaluate their stability and comfort under hiking-like conditions. Many outdoor retailers have ramps or test areas that simulate trail conditions. Pay attention to how the boots feel during uphill and downhill walking, as these movements stress different areas of your feet. Test the flexibility of the boot by walking through a full range of motion. The boot should flex naturally at the ball of your foot while providing stability through the arch and heel areas. Excessive stiffness can cause fatigue, while too much flexibility may not provide adequate support. Choosing Boot Types for Different Activities Lightweight trail boots work well for day hiking on maintained trails where maximum flexibility and comfort are priorities. These boots typically offer less ankle support but provide better breathability and lighter weight for less demanding terrain. Mid-cut hiking boots provide moderate ankle support while maintaining reasonable flexibility for varied terrain. This style offers a good balance for hikers who encounter mixed conditions or carry moderate loads. High-cut boots offer maximum protection and support for rugged terrain, heavy loads, or multi-day trips where ankle stability is crucial. The trade-off is increased weight and potentially reduced flexibility, but the added protection can be essential for challenging conditions. Best Hiking Boots for Common Foot Conditions Different foot conditions require specific features in hiking boots to ensure comfort and prevent problems during hiking activities. Understanding how your foot characteristics affect your boot needs helps you choose footwear that supports your individual requirements. Boots for Plantar Fasciitis Hikers with plantar fasciitis need boots with strong arch support and heel cushioning to reduce stress on the plantar fascia during long hikes. The repetitive stress of hiking can aggravate plantar fasciitis if boots don't provide adequate support. The best boots have a firm arch support that maintains your foot's natural arch shape and prevents excessive stretching of the plantar fascia [3]. Heel cushioning becomes particularly important for plantar fasciitis sufferers, as heel impact can trigger pain. Quality heel cushioning absorbs impact forces and reduces the stress transmitted to the plantar fascia with each step. Boots for Bunions and Hammertoes Hikers with bunions or hammertoes benefit from boots with wide, stretchable toe boxes that accommodate foot deformities without creating pressure points. Standard width boots can compress these areas and cause significant pain during long hikes. Look for boots specifically designed with extra width or stretchable materials that adapt to your foot shape. The toe box should provide enough room for your toes to move naturally without pressure on the affected joints. Some boots feature asymmetrical toe boxes that better accommodate bunions on the big toe side of the foot. Boots for Flat Feet Hikers with flat feet need boots with contoured orthotic insoles that provide stability and prevent excessive pronation. Flat feet tend to roll inward during walking, which can create strain on the inner foot structures and affect your overall stability on uneven terrain.  Motion control features in the midsole can help limit excessive foot movement and provide additional stability. These features work with proper arch support to maintain better foot alignment during hiking activities. Boots for Diabetic Feet Diabetic hikers need boots with soft, seamless interiors to reduce friction and prevent hot spots that could develop into serious problems. Diabetic feet are more prone to injury and slower to heal, making prevention of pressure points and friction areas crucial. Extra depth and adjustable features allow accommodation of diabetic insoles or custom orthotics while maintaining a comfortable fit. Breathable materials help maintain foot health by reducing moisture that could contribute to skin problems. Orthofeet's collection of supportive hiking boots is designed to keep every step comfortable and secure on the trail, with specific features that address common foot conditions while providing the performance characteristics needed for hiking activities. Whether you're dealing with specific foot conditions or simply want the most comfortable hiking experience possible, choosing the best boots with the right combination of support, cushioning, and fit features ensures that your feet remain comfortable throughout your hiking adventures.   [product-group-tile] Sources: [1] Knapik JJ, Reynolds KL, Duplantis KL, Jones BH. "Friction Blisters: Pathophysiology, Prevention and Treatment." Sports Medicine. 1995;20(3):136-47.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8571000/ [2] Geng J, Dong J, Ni H, Lee MS, Wu T, Jiang K, Wang G, Zhou AL, Malouf R. "Ginseng for cognition." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2010;12:CD007769.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21154383/ [3] American Podiatric Medical Association. "Plantar Fasciitis." APMA,https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=978

Hiking during the winter offers unique rewards, from pristine snow-covered landscapes to crisp, invigorating air. However, hiking in cold conditions requires proper preparation and gear to ensure both safety and comfort. Whether you're dealing with plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, arthritis, or general foot sensitivity, staying warm and taking the right approach to winter hiking can help you enjoy the outdoors year-round. Why Comfort Matters: Impact on Your Feet and Posture Comfort isn't just a luxury during winter hiking - it's essential for safety and performance. When packing for a winter hike, prioritize gear that keeps your feet warm and supported, especially if you’ll be on a long snow-covered trail. When your feet are uncomfortable, it affects your entire body's alignment and balance, potentially leading to injuries or forcing you to cut your hike short. Cold temperatures and snow can exacerbate existing foot conditions. People with plantar fasciitis may experience increased stiffness and pain during cold weather walking, while those with neuropathy might have reduced sensation, making it harder to detect pressure points or injuries [1]. Arthritis sufferers often experience joint stiffness that worsens in cold conditions, affecting mobility and comfort Poor-fitting or inadequate footwear can lead to blisters, pressure points, and foot fatigue. These issues become magnified in winter conditions, where you can't easily stop to address problems. If you plan to tackle a snowy or icy trail, make sure your pack includes supportive footwear and layers to help you stay warm from start to finish. When your feet hurt, you naturally alter your gait, which can strain your knees, hips, and back, creating a cascade of discomfort throughout your body. Comfortable feet contribute to better posture and balance on uneven, potentially icy terrain. This stability is crucial for preventing falls and maintaining confidence on winter trails. Being mindful of the cold and snow throughout your hike and keeping your pack stocked with warm essentials can make a significant difference in how safe and comfortable you feel every step of the way. How to Prepare for Winter Trails Staying safe on a winter hiking trail starts with preparing for snow, ice, and unpredictable cold weather. Layering your clothing helps you stay warm and dry, while moisture-wicking fabrics prevent overheating on long trails. Choosing the right winter hiking gear, especially supportive insulated footwear, is essential for maintaining balance and comfort on slippery paths covered in snow or hidden ice. Quality footwear designed for winter conditions keeps feet warm, dry, and supported over uneven terrain. Pair it with layered outerwear, durable socks, and reliable gear to protect against the cold and sudden temperature drops. Before heading out, always check trail conditions and pack extra warm essentials so you can hike confidently and safely, regardless of how challenging the winter trail may become. Key Factors in Making Boots Comfortable when Winter Hiking Choosing the Right Fit and Size Knowing how to make boots more comfortable is essential when taking on trails. Proper boot fit is the foundation for health when hiking in the winter. Your feet naturally swell slightly during physical activity, and in cold weather, you'll likely wear thicker socks, so your boots need to accommodate these changes. Measure both feet, as they often differ in size. Shop for footwear boots later in the day when your feet are naturally more swollen to simulate hiking conditions. When trying on boots, wear the same type of socks you plan to hike in - typically wool or synthetic thermal socks. Check for adequate toe room by ensuring you can wiggle your toes freely. There should be about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the boot's end. The heel should feel secure without slipping, and the boot should feel snug around the midfoot without pinching.For those with conditions like bunions or hammertoes, look for orthopedic boots with extra depth and width to prevent pressure points that can become painful during long hikes. Opting for Cushioned Insoles and Padding Quality insoles can transform an average boot into a comfortable hiking companion. They absorb shock with each step, reducing the impact on your feet, knees, and back. This shock absorption is particularly important for people with plantar fasciitis, as it reduces strain on the plantar fascia. Orthotic insoles provide targeted arch support, helping maintain proper foot alignment and reducing fatigue. For those with arthritis, the extra cushioning can help absorb impact that might otherwise stress painful joints. Look for removable insoles so you can replace them with custom orthotics if needed. Memory foam or gel insoles conform to your foot shape, providing personalized comfort and pressure relief. Selecting the Right Materials for Comfort Winter hiking footwear boots should feature waterproof, breathable materials to keep feet dry while allowing moisture to escape. Wet feet become cold feet quickly, and prolonged moisture can lead to blisters and fungal infections. Knowing how to keep your feet warm in cold weather is essential when maintaining your health. Insulation is crucial, but avoid over-insulating if you'll be active, as this can cause excessive sweating. Look for lightweight insulation that can keep you warm without the extra bulk. The boot's interior should feature soft, seamless lining to prevent hot spots and pressure points. Padded collars around the ankle provide additional comfort and help prevent snow from entering the boot. Tips for Making Your Boots Even More Comfortable Breaking in Your Boots Effectively for Winter Trails Never wear brand-new boots on a winter hike. Proper break-in prevents blisters and ensures that shoes conform to your feet. Start by wearing your boots around the house for short periods. Gradually increase wear time over several days. Take short walks, then progress to longer hikes on easy terrain before tackling challenging winter conditions. Wear your hiking socks during break-in to simulate actual hiking conditions. Pay attention to any pressure points or discomfort, and address these issues before your winter hiking adventures. Note that many high-quality orthopedic hiking boots, including those from Orthofeet, are designed to be comfortable immediately and require minimal break-in time. Using Comfort Inserts and Arch Supports Additional comfort inserts can address specific issues. Arch supports help distribute weight evenly across your foot, reducing pressure on any single area. This is particularly beneficial for people with flat feet or high arches. Heel cushions can provide extra padding for those who experience heel pain, while metatarsal pads can relieve pressure on the ball of the foot. For those with plantar fasciitis, inserts with targeted heel and arch support can significantly reduce pain. Consider carrying backup inserts on longer hikes, as they can shift or wear down during extended use. Best Orthofeet Boots for Ultimate Comfort Orthofeet boots are specifically designed to address the comfort needs of people with foot conditions while providing the protection and performance required for winter hiking. The Ortho-Cushion™ System features multilayered orthotic insoles with anatomical arch support, reducing pressure on sensitive areas and promoting proper foot alignment. The extra-depth design accommodates custom orthotics or provides additional room for swollen or sensitive feet. Wide toe boxes prevent cramping and pressure on toes, particularly important for those with bunions or hammertoes. The ergonomic sole design features mild rocker bottoms that promote natural foot motion and reduce stress on joints. Orthofeet's women's boots and men's boots incorporate these comfort technologies while providing the waterproofing and insulation needed for winter conditions. The lightweight construction reduces fatigue during long hikes, while breathable materials help regulate temperature and moisture. Soft, padded interiors prevent irritation, making these products suitable for people with sensitive feet or conditions like neuropathy. Winter hiking doesn't have to mean sacrificing comfort for adventure. With proper preparation and quality gear, such as hiking boots for men or women’s hiking boots designed for winter trails, you can enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably. The key is choosing footwear that supports your feet while protecting them from harsh winter conditions.   [product-group-tile] Sources: [1] Arthritis Foundation. "Weather and Arthritis." 2023. Accessed January 20, 2025.https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/managing-pain/understanding-pain/weather-and-arthritis [2] American Podiatric Medical Association. "Cold Weather Foot Care." 2024. Accessed January 20, 2025.https://www.apma.org/patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=985 [3] Mayo Clinic. "Plantar Fasciitis." 2023. Accessed January 20, 2025.https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354846

I fell in love with hiking during the pandemic, since it was pretty much the only activity I could do during lockdown and social distancing. Now, I‘m not talking about climbing Mount Everest, but just being outdoors surrounded by untouched nature was enough to unwind me and provide my body with the exercise it needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  However, I also suffer from plantar fasciitis, which definitely isn’t compatible with any strenuous activity on the foot, often causing sore feet and heel pain, especially on uneven terrain. One of the main causes of plantar fasciitis is participation in physical activities that put a lot of stress on the heel and attached tissue, or a sudden and rapid increase in levels of physical activity. It brought up questions like “Does plantar fasciitis ever go away?” In other words, hiking and walking with plantar fasciitis can exacerbate the condition if I didn’t take any specific action to prevent and comfort it. Treating plantar fasciitis symptoms is not difficult and most of the time the condition will improve over time with the right shoes, orthotics, and care. Luckily, I was able to continue hiking despite my plantar fasciitis, thanks to comfortable hiking boots and other plantar fasciitis footwear made by shoe brands that really know what they are doing and specialize in problem feet. I was fortunate enough to test some styles out so that I can share my experiences hiking with plantar fasciitis with you.   Do I need waterproof boots when hiking with plantar fasciitis? [product-tile="/products/hunter-black"]  If you're dealing with plantar fasciitis and planning to hit the trails, you might be wondering if waterproof boots are necessary. The answer depends on the environment and conditions you're expecting. Waterproof boots can keep your feet dry in wet or muddy terrain, which helps prevent additional discomfort caused by soggy or cold feet—something you’ll definitely want to avoid when managing foot pain. Here are some of my favorites: Delta (an orthopedic boot for women) or Hunter ( an orthopedic boot for men) received an incredible upgrade to the construction, material and sole. [product-tile="/products/delta-brown"]  Orthofeet’s waterproof shoes are made with waterproof leather that is durable and super easy to clean. The construction of the boot is sealed in the seams, even where the tongue connects to the boot, to ensure nothing seeps through, keeping your socks and feet dry. The sole is made with special rubber and includes many grooves that channel away liquids to prevent slips and falls on virtually any surface. Knowing this gave me peace of mind and increased confidence when trekking on wet trails. The Ortho-Cushion System featured in the boots made my plantar fasciitis flare ups non-existent and allowed me to enjoy being active without any pain or discomfort.  A premium orthotic insole supported my arch, while the air and foam pockets within the sole cushioned my heel and surrounding area. As with plantar fasciitis, a wide toe shoe was much appreciated for much little bunion and I was still able to comfortably wear a thicker outdoor sock.  A generously padded heel counter felt like a pillow against my heel and ankle area, and provided supportive cushioning and protection for all day wear.  I give the Delta a 10 for being the best women’s boots for plantar fasciitis! Should I be using specific orthopedic hiking boots? [product-tile="/products/glacier-gorge-581-black"]   Glacier Gorge For those of us looking for a more classic looking boot that can transition from trail to paved ground, Glacier Gorge is a fantastic choice. The pebbled full grain leather upper makes this boot a timeless classic that can be maintained and cleaned, even after a stroll in rugged terrain. Yet, the leather is super pliable and provides a lot of give to accommodate every foot shape. The two hook and loop straps make putting them on and taking them off a snap. The upper design is unique and allows the tongue to completely open for easy foot insertion. You can literally step into them, which is rare when it comes to boots. And of course the straps are adjustable to create a custom fit and secure grip, based on your preference and foot shape. Glacier Gorge , one of our men’s hiking boots is designed with extra depth that runs from the heel to toe area, which then leads to a wide, round and tall toe box construction. These features ensure a pressure free fit, allow for maximum toe movement and are very accommodating to bunions, hammertoes and wide or swollen feet, making them the best hiking boots for bad feet.  And how do these help with Plantar Fasciitis? The built-in anatomical plantar fasciitis insole and substantial shock-dispersing materials ensure the plantar fascia is not overworked and is comforted and protected from all angles. Ryder [product-tile="/products/ryder-brown"] Ryder is one of the most innovative boots I have come across and is ideal for those of us who don’t like or have trouble tying laces, or want quick and easy on/off wear.  They look like regular lace boots, but when you turn them around you will discover two zippers at the heel. And yes, even though they are men’s boots, I was able to test them out in my size! Adjust and tie the laces once (when you put them on for the first time) according to your grip and instep, and never tie them again! And now for the best part: pull down both zippers at the back to create a wide opening that allows the foot to slide in easily. This was extremely beneficial as I was running in and out of the house and didn’t have to fuss with tedious lacing. The built in orthotic insole keeps the plantar fascia in check by controlling the foot rolling inwards and maintaining an aligned body. The rocker bottom sole further facilities proper foot motion and really improves walking. A seam free interior that is generously padded with foam provides a smooth, gentle and protective environment for the foot. The wide, round and tall toe area gives the toes the freedom to move around without overlapping others, potentially causing additional foot conditions. A slip-resistant sole completes the package, allowing one to venture on the off beaten path. Ryder is available in a rustic brown and classic black. Is it okay to hike with plantar fasciitis? Seeing as plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury caused by strain, it’s best to start with easier, shorter hikes and gradually work your way up to longer ones. Listen to your feet. If you start feeling any type of foot pain or discomfort, know you’ve reached your limit and it’s time to rest or stop the hike. I found my feet feel and serve me so much better if I take it easy at first and build my way up, starting with simple foot exercises for plantar fasciitis, and if I wear the right hiking boots and socks, of course. There are a few design features you should look for in hiking boots if you have plantar fasciitis. Recommended hiking boot features for plantar fasciitis Arch Support  Boots for plantar fasciitis need to provide superior support under the arch so that when the plantar fascia (runs under the bone from heel to toe) flexes and flattens with each step, it is not overly strained, which can lead to tearing, inflammation, and pain. Cushioning  Since the heel is also involved and pain presents there, it is important that your trail shoe for plantar fasciitis have substantial cushioning throughout, but especially at the heel, where the foot first strikes the ground. Any shock forces from the initial strike will be dispersed and deflected for a softer landing. The best hiking boots or travel walking shoes will have both cushioning in the insole and outsole, made from several layers, thicknesses and shock absorbing materials.  Ergonomic Sole  To improve and facilitate the walking motion of the foot, an ideal supportive hiking boot with a low heel and a slightly curved sole, otherwise known as a rocker bottom, does the trick. Keeping the foot close to the ground prevents extra pressure being placed on the forefoot and arch, while the rocker bottom ensures smooth motion propelling the foot forward with minimal joint movement.