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What we’ll cover
  1. Why do I need the right footy boots?
  2. 1.  You get what you pay for.
  3. 2.  Rule of thumb.
  4. 3.  Seek professional help. 

Footy boots – finding the right fit

Why do I need the right footy boots?

Choosing the right footy boots is crucial.  Footy season is upon us and whilst you may not be able to prevent the bumps and tackles that happen on the field it’s easy to get the basics right so that your body is fit and ready to go. You can apply up to 5 times your body weight through your legs when you play AFL and this is transferred straight through your feet. Therefore, it’s very important to find a shoe that is not only comfortable during training and game day but also for injury prevention. New shiny boots might be eye catching, but a comfortable and well fitted boot can enhance your performance.

Finding the right footy boots

Our podiatrist, Camilla Phillips has put together her top 3 tips for finding the right footy boots.

1.  You get what you pay for.

 To help your game sometimes it means spending more on the right pair of boots.

Consider the following features when choosing…

  • Upper materials: The upper needs to be strong to support your foot when changing direction. Kangaroo leather is a material used in high end footy boots as it’s light and molds well to your foot. Synthetic material is usually cheaper and will work great for kids.
  • Stud configuration: Some boots have different stud patterns to accommodate different playing surfaces. If you are a more elite football player, consider boots with moulded studs for dry days and a set with screw in studs for wet days. It’s important that the base of the front of the shoe is flexible to allow for toe off and to allow smooth contact with the ball.
  • Lacing configuration: Most AFL boots have lacing placed in the center of the boot whereas some boots have the lacing slightly off center which is generally for soccer players.

2.  Rule of thumb.

 To fit your shoe, make sure there is a thumb width between your longest toe and the end of the boot. Make sure you wear socks when trying on football boots and beware that your foot will slightly swell when playing, so allow space for some expansion. Lastly, if the studs are in the wrong place they can aggravate the foot leading to blisters and callus, so make sure the configuration feels comfortable beneath your feet.

3.  Seek professional help. 

If you are still unsure of what to buy it’s worth speaking with someone who can guide you through the features and find the best fit for you. Maybe you’ve experienced pain in your boots previously? Foot orthoses can be helpful but keep this in mind before you buy the boots. To fit an orthotic you will most likely need a deeper fit.

Some final advice…

Make sure you gradually increase the amount of wear in your boots by ensuring they have been worn for at least two training sessions before a game. If you require any further help make sure you seek assistance from a Podiatrist.

Please feel free to contact Malvern East Podiatry on 9571 6888. Our podiatrists; Camilla Phillips and Sally Child are always happy to help!


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Last week our team celebrated another great year. 

Whilst Melbourne’s weather had its own plans, we were still determined to keep with the theme of ‘Italian Summer’. We let our hair down to master the art of mixology 🍸🍹followed by an Italian feast. Friday morning Run Club with the team. Practicing what we preach!

Staying stronger, healthier and happier. This time last week, our team was nervously completing their final preparations for @melbmara . 

Congratulations to our physiotherapists and ME community who ran on the day.

Dilen and Michael completed their first marathons. Abbey and Lizzie smashed out their first half. Last Sunday, our team headed down to see our own Matt Warren win a premiership in the VAFA Premier Men’s Competition. Last week our team dedicated a full day to professional development and team building. At ME Physio we pride ourselves on collaboration to put you at the centre of everything we do. 

Our team covered the latest treatments for back pain, financial well-being and finished off the day with salsa dancing. 

Many thanks to our guests including James Schomburgk from @the2ndvisitphysio , Financial Planners Tony Vikram & Cameron Bishop and the @salsafoundation At ME Physio, our focus is on helping you get stronger so that you can keep doing the things you love.

For Tony and Joan, healthier and stronger is being able to navigate the iconic Coast to Coast Walk in the UK! We recently had the pleasure of hosting Elise Bujor from Women’s & Men’s Health Physiotherapy to discuss women’s health issues across the lifespan. 

Our team pride themselves on staying up to date to ensure you’re able to stay healthier, happier and stronger. Huge milestones over the past few weeks with both Tom and Jude from @delasallefc doing their first bit of running in their rehab. 

Tom is on the return from an ankle dislocation whilst Jude is putting in the hard work following a knee reconstruction. Last week our team enjoyed some friendly rivalry at the footy. 

With finals around the corner, some of our team can now safely make holidays plans for September. We recently had the pleasure of hosting the podiatry team from @sespodiatry. 

Our physiotherapists Michael and Abbey presented on rehabilitation following Achilles surgical repair and ankle surgery. Last weekend some of our team got together to complete the 10 km run @runmelbourne. There was no finish line picture as some were keen to run another 15 km!

Whilst running wasn’t for some - brunch was well received by everyone. Shoulder impingement can be incredibly frustrating and painful. 

Tony has been working closely with our physiotherapists Vernon and Dilen to get on top of his shoulder pain. His treatment plan has included hands-on physiotherapy and individualised exercises in our hydrotherapy and strength programs.

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