Here is a subject that I can pretty much guarantee you've never considered as it relates to carrying a concealed weapon; shoes and boots. Yes, the choice you make in the footwear you put on every day is just as important as choosing the correct holster for your weapon. Here's why:
Consider how many hours each day you wear your shoes or boots. Also take into consideration how many of those hours you are actually up and walking. Then consider the fit and material of the foot wear. Add all of that up and you begin to see how important the choice of footwear is. It is very important to chose the correct footwear when you consider all the information you've gathered from above and then add to it the weight of the weapon you'll be carrying. Generally the weight of a weapon can be from 1 pound up to 3 1/2 pounds. If you're going to walk any distance at all for any extended length of time you'll begin to understand that being comfortable in the foot wear you've chosen has a direct bearing on how long you'll actually wear your weapon. The weight of your weapon is something you must get used to. It takes time and proper placement. If you then have to also try to get used to footwear that doesn't fit correctly, is too hard soled or has no support it all begins to break down your comfort and suddenly you begin to wonder why your back hurts, your feet hurt and you just can't seem to get comfortable.
If you're a woman the problem is multiplied. You have fewer choices in footwear due to fashion and environment. You might work in an office or walk to different meetings each day. You might have to be in and out of your vehicle while wearing a dress, skirt or business suit. It all adds up to making the choice of footwear one that is more difficult than it is for a man. Man just puts on his shoes and heads out the door. You, as a woman, must wear shoes or boots that fit your outfit for the day. Now add into the equation the fact that you're carrying a concealed weapon somewhere on your person and it just gets more difficult.
Would you really want to be wearing this type of shoe if you're carrying a weapon on your side that weighs up to 3 pounds? No, I didn't think so. The style is nice but just not made for extended periods of weight bearing sessions. If perhaps the heel was shorter it could work but I believe it would be to your advantage to chose something with a low heel and some arch support. Trust me, you're going to need it.
Well, that is enough to chew on for today. I hope by now that you understand that you can't just put on your holster, cover it up with a shirt or jacket and head out the door. 8-10 hours from now you'll regret not having put some serious thought into your choice of footwear.
Think about it for a while and we'll be back to visit you again very soon. Until then be safe, be well and watch your back.
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