WHY IS FOOT HEALTH AND PODIATRY SO IMPORTANT?
Many people think that it is normal to experience foot pain whenever you spend too much time on your feet.
However, foot pain doesn’t have to be a regular part of your life.


Feet are a complex mechanical wonder with 26 bones, 38 joints, a network of muscles and ligaments as well as metres of blood vessels and nerve fibres.


The average person walks up to about 160,000 kilometres in their lifetime, enough to walk around the earth 4 times.


By the age of 50, our feet have lost up to half of the shock-absorbing capability of the natural foot pad.
THE ZIERA DIFFERENCE
In 1946, two podiatrists measured over 10,000 women’s feet to determine what makes the perfect fit. Backed by this research and expertise, Ziera was founded so women could walk in superior comfort without sacrificing their style.
We are, and have always been, passionate about how our shoes look, fit and feel, bringing together design and engineering to create shoes that women-and their feet-love.
We are proud to announce that an extensive range of bestselling Ziera shoes are now endorsed by the Australian Podiatry Association (APodA), including the first and only endorsed range of sandals.
WHO ARE APODA?
The Australian Podiatry Association (APodA) is the largest and oldest peak body representing podiatry and promoting foot health in Australia.
APodA has built a reputation on trust and integrity over the past 80+ years. It is a trusted brand that members and consumers rely on, to help inform, educate, develop and guide them through a range of foot health challenges.
APodA is committed to the advancement of podiatry to improve foot health in the community. The positive impact of podiatric care changes the lives of one in five Australians who suffer from foot pain.
APODA ACCREDITATION | WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
To gain APodA endorsement a product must pass the Product Assessment process and fulfil a detailed list of stringent requirements.
Products that are put forward for endorsement are presented to a panel of four independently practising Ahpra-registered podiatrists (four year trained, in clinical practice for a minimum of 5 years and currently in clinical practice).
APODA ACCREDITATION | KEY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA


Heel Support
Presence and suitability of the heel counter, referring to rigidity, dimensions & and position.


Forefoot Flexion
Position and amount that the shoe flexes. Correct flexion should occur at the forefoot and be sufficient for the joints to be able to extend.


Contoured Arch
Contoured arch support may be present from either the insole, upper or both.


Torsional Stability
Refers to the amount of “twist” of a shoe.


Fastening Device/s
Positioning of both laces and fastenings that minimise irritation.


Toe Box
Good shape that replicates foot morphology in width and depth.


Cushioning
Factors such as construction material and durometer may be referred to.


Removable Insole
Presence and suitability of the heel counter, referring to rigidity, dimensions and position.