Ever found yourself walking unevenly because one shoe seems higher than the other? It’s a surprisingly common issue that can affect comfort, posture, and even long-term health.
Whether it’s due to a medical condition, shoe damage, or simply a mismatch, evening up your shoes is more relevant than you might think. Addressing this problem can help you walk more confidently and comfortably.
In this article, we’ll guide you through practical steps, helpful tips, and insightful solutions to help you even up your shoes the right way.
How to Even Up Your Shoes: A Complete Guide to Shoe Levelers
What Does It Mean to “Even Up” Your Shoe?
If you’ve ever worn a walking boot, a thick medical sandal, or dealt with a shoe built up on one side, you know how awkward and uncomfortable it can feel. Often, one shoe is higher than the other, which may result in back pain, hip strain, or even an altered walk. “Evening up” your shoes means balancing your height on both sides so you can walk comfortably and safely.
A common, effective solution is a shoe leveler or lift—devices designed to add adjustable height to the sole of your non-injured foot. This article will guide you through understanding, choosing, and using a shoe leveler like EVENup, as well as provide practical advice and tips to make your recovery easier.
Understanding Shoe Levelers
What is a Shoe Leveler or Lift?
A shoe leveler is an external device worn over your regular shoe to add extra height. If you are wearing a medical boot, for example, your injured leg will likely have a thicker sole. A shoe lift placed on your healthy foot helps “even up” your stride, so you can move with confidence and mitigate pain caused by imbalance.
When Do You Need a Shoe Leveler?
You might benefit from a shoe lift if you are:
- Wearing a cast, walking boot, or post-surgery shoe.
- Dealing with leg length discrepancies (temporary or long-term).
- Experiencing discomfort due to imbalanced gait.
- Seeking to prevent compensatory pain in your hips, knees, or back.
How to Even Up Your Shoe: Step-by-Step
Let’s walk through the process of evening up your shoe, ensuring you choose and use the right type of shoe lift for your needs.
1. Assess Your Needs
Start by looking at your footwear:
- Are you in a bulky walking boot or post-surgery sandal?
- Does one shoe feel significantly higher than the other?
- Are you experiencing back, hip, or knee pain?
If yes, a shoe leveler is likely needed.
2. Choose the Right Shoe Leveler
There are several shoe levelers available, such as those from EVENup, which are designed for compatibility with a wide range of shoe types. Here’s what to consider:
- Size: Shoe levelers typically come in sizes like Small, Medium, and Large. Choose based on your regular shoe size.
- Adjustability: Some models offer height adjustments, often with removable layers.
- Compatibility: Check if your shoe (sneaker, flat, running shoe) fits well with the leveler.
- Ease of Application: Look for designs with straps and a non-slip bottom for security.
3. Apply the Shoe Leveler
Here’s a simple step-by-step method:
- Put on your regular shoe (the one without the medical boot).
- Place the shoe leveler flat on the floor.
- Slide your shoe, with your foot in it, onto the leveler.
- Secure the leveler using provided straps or fasteners, making sure your shoe is snug and won’t slide.
- Double-check that the height feels comfortable and you’re walking evenly.
4. Practice Safe Walking
- Walk a few steps inside your home to get used to the lift.
- Notice your posture, balance, and comfort.
- Adjust the straps or layers as needed.
If your device allows, customize the height so your hips and back are level when standing.
Key Benefits of Evening Up Your Shoes
Utilizing a shoe lift offers several advantages during your recovery period or for long-term support.
Improved Comfort
- Reduces soreness in your back, hips, and knees.
- Decreases limping, which can take pressure off other parts of your body.
Better Stability
- Helps prevent trips, stumbles, and falls by making your stride smoother.
- Supports better posture and alignment when walking.
Enhanced Mobility
- Makes it easier to perform daily activities, both indoors and outdoors.
- Promotes a more natural, confident gait.
Minimizes Secondary Pain
When your legs are uneven, your body compensates, often causing pain in previously unaffected areas. A shoe lift helps distribute weight evenly, minimizing this risk.
Common Challenges (And How to Manage Them)
While shoe levelers are simple, you might encounter obstacles.
Fit Issues
Sometimes, the shoe leveler may not fit all types of shoes perfectly.
- Try shoes with a flat, supportive sole for best results.
- If your shoe keeps slipping, retighten the straps and check the position.
Height Mismatch
You may need to experiment with different layers to get the most comfortable height. Start with less and add more thickness if needed.
Walking Adjustment
It might take a short period to adjust your walking style, especially after an injury. Go slow and steady at first.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Enjoy the best experience by following these suggestions:
- Choose Stable Footwear: Pair the lift with sneakers, athletic shoes, or supportive flats.
- Keep it Clean: Wipe the lift regularly, especially if you’re using it both indoors and outside.
- Inspect for Wear: If you notice fraying straps or worn treads, it may be time to replace the device.
- Listen to Your Body: If using a lift causes pain, consult a medical professional.
- Try Before You Walk Far: Wear the leveler around the house before heading out for the day.
Cost-Saving Tips
Shoes levelers can be an investment, but here are ways to save:
- Shop Around: Compare prices at pharmacies, medical supply stores, and online retailers.
- Insurance: Check if your medical insurance will cover assistive devices after surgery or injury.
- Shipping: Some suppliers offer free or discounted shipping. Consider local pick-up options if available.
- Buy Second-Hand: Some people resell gently used lifts online. Make sure they are clean and undamaged.
While costs can vary, expect a quality shoe leveler to typically range between $20 and $60, depending on size and features. Buying directly from medical supply outlets often ensures you get products that meet safety standards.
Additional Advice for Getting the Most Out of Your Shoe Leveler
- Follow Instructions: Each brand or type may have unique installation steps. Follow included instructions carefully.
- Adjust as Needed: Your needs may change as swelling subsides or your walking improves. Readjust the height or fit as you heal.
- Monitor Your Walk: If you find yourself limping or favoring a side, reevaluate your shoe setup.
- Consult with Professionals: Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend the best product based on your injury and footwear.
- Use Only on the Healthy Foot: Never place the lift under the injury or surgical shoe.
Who Should Use a Shoe Lift?
Shoe lifts benefit a variety of people, including:
- Patients recovering from foot, ankle, or lower leg injuries.
- Anyone using a cast, orthopedic boot, or thick-soled medical footwear.
- Individuals with temporary leg length differences due to surgery.
- People suffering from chronic leg length discrepancies, as advised by a healthcare provider.
Other Types of Shoe Levelers
While devices like the EVENup shoe lift are popular, there are alternatives, such as:
- Custom orthotic insoles (placed inside the shoe).
- Temporary foam lifts (for short-term use at home).
- Custom-built shoes with added soles (for permanent leg length difference).
Generally, for recovery after injury or surgery, an external adjustable shoe leveler is the easiest, most practical solution.
Conclusion
Balancing your stride after an injury or surgery can make a world of difference in your comfort and recovery. Even up your shoes by using a reliable, adjustable shoe leveler over your regular footwear. Doing so allows you to move with less pain, better balance, and improved mobility.
Remember to choose the right size, fit it securely, and pay attention to your comfort as you adapt. Investing in a quality shoe leveler is a simple choice to significantly enhance your everyday activities while recovering. Always consult your medical provider if you are unsure or experience pain while using a shoe lift.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I choose the right size of shoe leveler?
Most brands offer shoe levelers in sizes like Small, Medium, and Large, based on typical shoe size ranges. Measure your foot or check your regular shoe size, then follow the size chart provided with your chosen product. If you’re between sizes, pick the one that matches your shoe’s width and style.
2. Can I use a shoe leveler with any type of shoe?
Shoe levelers work best with sneakers, athletic shoes, or sturdy flats. Very flexible or high-heeled shoes aren’t ideal. Make sure your shoe fits securely on the lift platform—and always test your setup at home before prolonged use.
3. How high should the shoe lift be?
The lift should match the sole height of your medical boot or specialty shoe as closely as possible. Start with less height and gradually add layers if your lift is adjustable. The goal is for your hips and lower back to feel level when standing.
4. How do I clean my shoe leveler?
Most shoe lifts feature easy-to-clean rubber or synthetic surfaces. Wipe them with a damp cloth and mild soap, then air dry. Avoid soaking the straps or submerging the device. Regular cleaning helps extend their lifespan—especially if you wear them outdoors.
5. Should I use the shoe lift on my injured foot?
No, shoe lifts are designed to be used on your healthy foot to balance the height difference caused by a boot or medical shoe worn on your injured foot. Never use a lift under your injured or operated foot unless specifically directed by your doctor.
Evening up your shoes is a simple, effective step toward safer, more comfortable mobility during recovery. With the right knowledge and product, you can move forward confidently—one step at a time!