Before Sex in the City, it is accepted that women like fancy shoes, with high heels. Men are not any more practical. Men what boot to look and feel macho. Both are not necessarily the best approach to buying shoes.

21st century has taken over, even the shoe industry. I am sure many of you have see the TV commercial that suggests you don’t have to go to the gym. All you have to do is wear this certain brand of tennis shoe.

Over the years I have went from wearing tennis shoes, heavy engineer boots, hard black leather dress shoes, to sandals. At home I walk around barefooted. When I am out and about I wear sandals. That is when I can get away with it.

There should be some basic considerations before heading out the door to buy shoes. I would recommend you write down your wants and needs in a shoe before you head out the door.

The Shoe Must Match Where Your Feet are going. Shop for the shoe that  matches where you are going and what time of walking you are going to be doing. Women don’t wear those high heels to work. Especially when you know that you are going to be walking a lot. Get a low hear and something that is comfortable. Men, tennis shoes for work on a construction site may seem comfortable. but they will do to protect you feet if something heavy falls on it.

Comfortable Fit – Shoes are like any other piece of clothing. Fit is not the same from one manufacture to another or style to another. Put both shoes on. Then walk back and forth for at least 20 feet a few times. Then try the next size up.

Realize one style of shoe may not be a good fit for you. Try another style of shoe that is designed for the same type of activity.

The best time to buy shoes is either late in the afternoon or early in the evening. Realize it or not, your feet swell during the day. They are at their largest during late afternoon. Thus making it the best time to try on shoes.

Health Considerations - Do you have a health condition that requires a special shoe? Foot injuries, low or high arches, back problems and even diabetes will require certain type of shoe.

Several years ago I was surprised to learn that people with diabetes need special shoes. Diabetes is one medical condition that you would not think requires special shoes. There are many foot problems associated with long-term or poorly controlled diabetes. For more information on this subject I refer you to eHow.com. They have a good introduction on diabetics need for special shoes.

Style and Fashion – Last but often put in first place, what styles and looks do you want in a shoe? Younger folks more so than older want shoes that are in fashion and look good. However, if a shoe looks good and does not work you when you are going to be wearing it. It is a waste of money.

Tags: Buying Guide, eHow, Sex in the City, Shoes, tennis shoes