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As a football (the round ball kind) player and a wearer of orthoses I am constantly aware at just how difficult it is to find a boot that is wide lasted enough to accommodate both my "hobbit like" feet and my devices.
I am aware that I am not the only football player that suffers this curse and was wondering if anybody could provide some information on the type of boots that they recommend.
Obviously the Gel Lethal is a great boot and the new Ultimate provides for a lightweight boot that competes with the lower profile boots on the market, however I am concerned that this boot is designed for AFL and not football and many players may not wear them.
Is there a low profile boot with a wide last that can accommodate us hobbits in the community?
I've found that the Adidas 7406's come up quite wide. Below is a link to pro direct soccers boot room - they sell most boots that are currently available and also report information such as weight and width fitting
Andrea, not sure where you are located, but Adidas also have a custom fitting service known as mi adidas the site appears down at the moment. But in Australia they tour the fitting system through the athletes foot or in the UK at Harrods Sweatshop.
__________________ Stephen Tucker Calvary Health Care
Hi Stephen have you tried the mi adidas?? At the state conference I did. Unfortunately the shoes they reommended did not allow for the rule of thumb! I had to go up 2 sizes on their recommendation. My concern is that those buyers who do not know that the shoe should not jam against their longest toe will be purchasing shoes way too small?? Perhaps they have taken the advice on board and altered this flaw??
kind regards Heather
Football boots are designed to be narrow, to get a good feel of the ball in any kicking sport, that's why they are fitted with no room in the toe! Adidas make some excellent boots, like the 7406, but there's no chance of fitting a standard device to these or any boots. Boots like the Adidas Predator are like wearing an extremely tight sock, thus no hope of device use. This seasons Gel Lethal Ultimate is also a slightly narrower shoe making orthotic wearing interesting too!
I personally promote the use of a brand called Nomis. It's an Australian owned company that uses high quailty one piece Australian Kangaroo leather uppers in their off shore made boots. The boots literally fit and feel like Kid gloves. I believe that any leather or K-leather boot is going to be better than synthetics as it molds to the foot, wide feet included, but of course to support the foot, custom made devices need to be used!
With regard to upper materials, more money spent general dictates better quality materials. Cheap = synthetic whereas Costly = K-Leather (the David Beckham Predator is the anomaly here) I believe enforcing this notion with your patients will provide the best long term comfort for them!
Currently i work at Sims Sports Store in Moonee Ponds Melbourne (not intended as a shameless plug), but all the staff there know what boot works and what doesn't, which makes boot selection a lot easier as you're not left to your own devices to select a boot that's right for you.
To end i guess football boot specific devices need to be made. Thin carbon fibre plates that contour the arch custom made to fit a boot are an expensive option but ultimately the best to give the best on ground performance.
Hi - Trevor Prior and Greg Lever make soccer boots around the morphology of your clients foot. If you send them your orthotic they will scan that and build the shape and function into the shank. Also they will build the shoe to look like a Nike/Addidas etc. A number of Premiership players use their product but you would not notice the difference unless you were close up.
Constructing the shoe this way allows you to keep the same stand height and feel (going up two sizes up to fit an orthotic would drastically reduce the feel of the 'boot on ball' as well as foot hold)
We would hate to see their wages reduced now would we :)
Perhaps your foot orthoses are bigger than they need to be?
Over the last decade there appears to be greater acceptance of foot orthoses which are broader than the foot itself (over lapping medially and/or laterally).
To buy a shoe bigger than the foot to accommodate a foot orthoses, to me only confirms optimal efficiency of the balanced shell is not the primary concern of the laboratory based manufacturer. Condition of sale agreements which prevent practitoners from modifying foot orthoses may have created a culture where fitting a device to the foot is no longer important. Much easier to advise the client to get a bigger shoe.
However as we are governed by univrsal laws when a buttress effect is required a shoe modification would be far more efficient than an in-shoe foot orthoses.
Functional foot orthoses should only fit the dimensions of the foot and not the shoe. In relation to a frontal plane model management of the foot, the shell pressing needs only balance heel and forefoot planes through heel strike to propulsion. The arch component can be removed entirely as it serves only to tell left from right (the arch height is determined by the medial heel tilt), half orthoses made from semi rigid materials would function in precisely same way as oversized plates (and probably better). Certainly a slim orthoses would allow the foot to be fitted to a soccer slipper as a priority.
I always have a problem with orthodox foot orthoses (with posting) for anything other than flat surface walking. I would certainly prescribe devices for normal wear (to encourage middle range motion), but use neutral shells (no posting) for competition footwear. The simple reason being the player is not traversing over flat surfaces nor maintaining an even paced gait pattern.
In terms of sagittal plane management of the foot, (after heel off), an arch support would offer support against distal antipronatory turning forces coming posteriorly from the forfoot. A lot of the new boots will incorprate a reinforced arch shell within their structure obviating the need to have an arch support insock.
In the evolution of the soccer boot it is worth a mention that in the 80s there were more injuries documented when manufacturers tried to incorporate podiatric biomechanics into the structure of their boots. It was eventually abandoned and more sophisticated analysis of human movement led to quite a different concept of boot design which is more consistent with sagittal plane analysis.
My advice Andrea would be to buy a boot that fits your feet then trim your foot orthoses to fit the foot.
Perhaps your foot orthoses are bigger than they need to be?
Over the last decade there appears to be greater acceptance of foot orthoses which are broader than the foot itself (over lapping medially and/or laterally).
To buy a shoe bigger than the foot to accommodate a foot orthoses, to me only confirms optimal efficiency of the balanced shell is not the primary concern of the laboratory based manufacturer. Condition of sale agreements which prevent practitoners from modifying foot orthoses may have created a culture where fitting a device to the foot is no longer important. Much easier to advise the client to get a bigger shoe.
However as we are governed by univrsal laws when a buttress effect is required a shoe modification would be far more efficient than an in-shoe foot orthoses.
Functional foot orthoses should only fit the dimensions of the foot and not the shoe. In relation to a frontal plane model management of the foot, the shell pressing needs only balance heel and forefoot planes through heel strike to propulsion. The arch component can be removed entirely as it serves only to tell left from right (the arch height is determined by the medial heel tilt), half orthoses made from semi rigid materials would function in precisely same way as oversized plates (and probably better). Certainly a slim orthoses would allow the foot to be fitted to a soccer slipper as a priority.
I always have a problem with orthodox foot orthoses (with posting) for anything other than flat surface walking. I would certainly prescribe devices for normal wear (to encourage middle range motion), but use neutral shells (no posting) for competition footwear. The simple reason being the player is not traversing over flat surfaces nor maintaining an even paced gait pattern.
In terms of sagittal plane management of the foot, (after heel off), an arch support would offer support against distal antipronatory turning forces coming posteriorly from the forfoot. A lot of the new boots will incorprate a reinforced arch shell within their structure obviating the need to have an arch support insock.
In the evolution of the soccer boot it is worth a mention that in the 80s there were more injuries documented when manufacturers tried to incorporate podiatric biomechanics into the structure of their boots. It was eventually abandoned and more sophisticated analysis of human movement led to quite a different concept of boot design which is more consistent with sagittal plane analysis.
My advice Andrea would be to buy a boot that fits your feet then trim your foot orthoses to fit the foot.
Hey what do I know?
Cameron
Cameron,
It is absolutely true. If you would be able to put your comments into maths or using cryptic biophysical explanations you would become a new podiatric biomechanics guru.
>If you would be able to put your comments into maths or using cryptic biophysical explanations you would become a new podiatric biomechanics guru.
I have enough problems writing English, thanks javier. In any event there are enough podiatric biomechanics gurus about without me. I shall stick to shoes and sex , I think, its safer.
Cheers
Cameron
Chelsea, Liverpool and Man U are still in the draw.
I treat alot of Rugby players who often have hobbit like feet, and often after recommending the Asics Lethal, they say that the Canturbury and Mizuno brands are wider and more low profile which gives a better foot/ground feel.
Nike also have some nice wide ones however these are flaaat soled and no good on hard ground as the spriggs are very prominant underfoot.
I think Mizuno is available in NZ and Oz dont know elsewhere.
There is quite a difference between rugby and soccer, not to state the obvious, but players use their feet for different purposes as part of the game and hence boots are different in their appearance because they provide different functions. Depending on the positon the player takes up in the leather patch game will determine whether he (or she) stays in footflat position for critcal stages or in the case of wingers, sprints. The latter would find a braderr broader boat more useful.
Moves by manufacturers to integrate a cross discipline boot have met with limited success, universally . Blades or cleats which were originally introduced to reduce knee injuries in AFL (almost the only football code which recorded player's injuries), were quickly taken up by soccer players who found them an asset for turning and twisting on hard ground. The original trials when the boots were introduced were undertaken in Perth WA. Where you know it is hot and hard.
The limited editon boots sold so well to soccer players the cleat innovation was introduced down under long before it was available in the UK and Europe. Now of course there is mounting evidence cleats are the cause of serious wounds to other players.
Have a swizz at the previous correspondence relating to metatarsal fractures prior to and during the last World Cup. I still believe the soccer boot is as good now as it can technically become.
So, so Joe . About to start working in the far north of the state and will be involved remote Aboriginal Communities. Something I have always wanted to do and the opportunity has presented itself so took the chance. Never a dull moment. Appears as I arrive there is to be a hurricane, well you know me I like to make an entry.
How about yourself? Have you run into Althea Curruth yet? If so give her my regards. We enjoyed living in NZ a decade back and our only regret was we did not get out of Wellington, often enough.
I have been recommending Asics Gel Lethal for a while (Ever since your old boy Craig Dowd came in with a very old pair taped together with duck tape).
I only recommend them for training.
Three or four Wasps players started using then on match day causing knife wound injuries while rucking. The blade may be great in league and Aussie rules but can dangerous in Union - there is a call for them to be banned here in the UK.
I think Tim Payne (Prop/Eng/Wasps) was cut very badly around the knee while being rucked and was out for several weeks with the cut and resultant infection.
I am sure that NZ will look into these injuries now the AB's have decided that forwards need to be mongrels and get back into the engine room and get the ball :)
Perhaps your foot orthoses are bigger than they need to be?
Over the last decade there appears to be greater acceptance of foot orthoses which are broader than the foot itself (over lapping medially and/or laterally).
To buy a shoe bigger than the foot to accommodate a foot orthoses, to me only confirms optimal efficiency of the balanced shell is not the primary concern of the laboratory based manufacturer. Condition of sale agreements which prevent practitoners from modifying foot orthoses may have created a culture where fitting a device to the foot is no longer important. Much easier to advise the client to get a bigger shoe.
However as we are governed by univrsal laws when a buttress effect is required a shoe modification would be far more efficient than an in-shoe foot orthoses.
Functional foot orthoses should only fit the dimensions of the foot and not the shoe. In relation to a frontal plane model management of the foot, the shell pressing needs only balance heel and forefoot planes through heel strike to propulsion. The arch component can be removed entirely as it serves only to tell left from right (the arch height is determined by the medial heel tilt), half orthoses made from semi rigid materials would function in precisely same way as oversized plates (and probably better). Certainly a slim orthoses would allow the foot to be fitted to a soccer slipper as a priority.
I always have a problem with orthodox foot orthoses (with posting) for anything other than flat surface walking. I would certainly prescribe devices for normal wear (to encourage middle range motion), but use neutral shells (no posting) for competition footwear. The simple reason being the player is not traversing over flat surfaces nor maintaining an even paced gait pattern.
In terms of sagittal plane management of the foot, (after heel off), an arch support would offer support against distal antipronatory turning forces coming posteriorly from the forfoot. A lot of the new boots will incorprate a reinforced arch shell within their structure obviating the need to have an arch support insock.
In the evolution of the soccer boot it is worth a mention that in the 80s there were more injuries documented when manufacturers tried to incorporate podiatric biomechanics into the structure of their boots. It was eventually abandoned and more sophisticated analysis of human movement led to quite a different concept of boot design which is more consistent with sagittal plane analysis.
My advice Andrea would be to buy a boot that fits your feet then trim your foot orthoses to fit the foot.
Hey what do I know?
Cameron
Thanks for the advice Cameron
I actually have very low profile Carbon fibre shells which as you suggested are posted intrinsicly.
The issue I generally have is that the last of the boot is not wide enough and as a result I get significant bulging of my foot over both the lateral and medial borders of the last irrespective of the brand including an Asics Gel Lethal (this occurs with or without my orthoses - as I said I have a hobbits foot ).
I also find that natural leather uppers (Adidas Copa Mundial, Andrea's etc) have more elastic property than the synthetics and can accommodate the width of my feet, however due to having a pronated foot which is unfortunately laterally unstable, I find myself sliding off the last laterally, irrespective of how firm the heel counter or upper is. Not wearing a device is not an option as I then suffer with lateral ankle soreness associated with increased compression forces over that area.
In the end I have purchased a pair of Andrea's (Italian made boot not widely distributed in Oz) in which I am able to comfortably accommodate my foot and orthoses. How do I support my foot laterally and prevent sliding or inversion forces? Very tight laces and stengthening of my peroneal complex
I am an Aussie Rules player and have always had trouble finding adequate boots; my wide feet make it difficult finding football boots, especially when i attempt to fit my custom orthotics inside.
Every year I try all the boots, but always end up buying the Gel Lethal Ultimates. This years model is lighter weight again and slimmer. The only problem with these boots I have found this year, compared to other years, is the boot flexes excessively in the area of the mid/distal longitudinal arch. My orthotic stretches long enough to add rigidity to the sole, so this does not appear to be a major issue as yet, although time will tell.
Adidas and Puma boots are all very narrow, fit like a 'sock' as previously described. Nomis are quality boots, more width but firm fit, but have trouble fitting orthotic in-shoe. Nike can have extra depth, so can fit an orthotic in some cases, but still quite a narrow boot. I tried some Blades (X Blades) on, they have more width, but still not the best fit, but found them to fit the best 2nd to the Asics.
There are so many 'groovey' looking boots which I would love to strut on the footy field, althouh fitting into them is a total different story :( . Ah well someday....
2 bob's worth.
For quite a few years I've been using a medial inflare on orthoses for Football (soccer) players. This means that the devices are narrower in the mid foot than at the forefoot as it is the mid foot where the fit problem mostly occurs. The boots are designed to wrap tightly around this area of the foot and an inflare device works in with that quite snugly.
Cheers
Hi to Cameron and Joe
Shane
I have just recently had a device manufactured that fits the contour of the boot exactly. Made from Carbon Fibre and made with a slightly less "functional" prescription I get the support required and I get to wear a boot that I want. Win Win really.
Football/Soccer Boots suitable for wide feet
Re: Football/Soccer Boots suitable for wide feet
Re: Football/Soccer Boots suitable for wide feet
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