When listing staples of a visit to the Calgary Stampede, you can’t get far without mentioning cowboy boots.
According to one UCalgary doctor, though, the local favourites may not be the ideal footwear for a long day walking on pavement.
Dr. Karim Manji, a podiatrist from the Department of Surgery at the Cumming School of Medicine with the University of Calgary, said that when mapping out Stampede attire, supportive and well-fitting shoes should be a priority.
I’ll fitting shoes can lead to sore, blistered feet or more severe conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon issues, according to Manji.
“We’re at a point now where we can say that function and fashion can be synonymous,” he told LWC.
“Key features should be well-constructed, stiff-soled shoes with a good arch support and a little bit of a heel. We’re trying to avoid those flat shoes that are not supportive and flimsy.”
For cowboy boots specifically, Manji said that they can be comfortable as long as they’re well constructed and not worn out.
“Sometimes when we’re seeing that heel wear, it might be a sign that it’s time to consider new boots,” he said.
Yza Bautista, a frequent Stampeder who consistently wears her boots, said her everyday boots are right in the worn-in sweet spot.
“I bought them from a thrift shop, so it’s broken in already, I can get through the day,” she said.
Bautista said that she’d consider wearing comfy shoes, as long as they fit the vibe. Even if her feet get a little sore after a few days, Bautista said she’ll continue wearing boots for the ‘gram.
Similar to Bautista, Spencer Tobooro said that comfort is a mid-level priority.
“I’m wearing (Timberland boots) and they’re versatile. You can wear them during winter, summer, or anything that you like, because it’s comfy even though it’s heavy,” Tobooro said.
Quality, fit matter more than shoe style
Manji said there is no perfect shoe. Instead, when choosing what to wear or purchase, considering when and how you’ll be using it is key.
“You really want something that fits well, that has a good arch support, good stiff sole, and provides some space for the shape of your foot,” he said.
“There’s no specific good or bad choice. Not all sandals are bad, not all cowboy boots are bad. In fact, there are very good sandals and cowboy boots out there.”
For Ilia Balanetchi, another Stampede-goer, cushioned running shoes work perfectly.
“I’m here for the entire day and (cowboy boots), they’re just super expensive,” Balanetchi said, adding that he had no complaints about his comfy shoes.
Manji said that he put serious thought into his own footwear, a pair of low-top sneakers, before leaving the house.
“I did spend a significant amount of time looking for something that was going to work well for me today,” he said.
“It’s something that is going to give me the arch support that I need and provide me the comfort that I’ll need on the grounds to spend the afternoon here.”
