Wellington boots are sometimes a problem for people who have an allergy to rubber. Some are available lined in cotton. Breathable Wellington boots are also available.

If you arebuying two pairs of different sizes, some shops give a discount off the second pair. Ask the manager if this is possible

There is a range of equipment available to assist with a variety of dressing tasks. We recommend that you seek advice from an occupational therapist before buying equipment, or try them out at your local Equipment Demonstration or Independent Living Centre. You are advised to seek a dermatology (skin) test to identify what chemical or material you are sensitive to, as this will guide your future choices. Manufacturers may provide information on any chemicals or materials used in the structure or manufacturing of their shoes on request. The degree of swelling can be decreased by raising the feet for periods during the day, accompanied by as much exercise as possible - movement of the calf muscles encourages the return of blood to the heart and so helps to minimise the retention of water in the feet and legs. Wide waist: Many riding tights have an extra wide waistband, which is essential if you refuse to comprise on comfort. Prescribed orthopaedic footwear or insoles should be available through the NHS, but waiting times can be significant. Private orthotics services will charge for the assessment and the provision of any insoles, supports or footwear.

Choosing the right shoes is important: they provide your feet with support and stability and protect your feet from the environment. Choosing the wrong type or size of shoe can be damaging to your feet, or can make existing foot problems worse. For some of these items, practice and correct technique is needed to ensure you can use them effectively. People with poor grip or shoulder function may find pulling the tights up over the hip difficult. Pulling up with hands crossed over the body reduces the amount of shoulder movement required. Any shoe that needs adapting should be of reasonable quality and well made. To make some adaptations the shoe will have to be taken to pieces and re-made - a poorly constructed shoe may not be able to withstand this. Fit: The soft and stretchy material of these riding tights provides a great fit and feels supportive. The waistband is deep and comfortable. They don’t sit quite as high up on the waist as some of the other leggings tested, but I didn’t have to keep pulling them up. 4 starsOnce on your leg all you see is the soft fine finish, more like a freshly shaved leg than hosiery. Ideal in summer to give the impression of a perfect tan, or in the cooler months to keep you just a little warmer with a short skirt or shorts. There should be enough width in the shoe to accommodate your whole foot - there should be no pressure on the joints on the sides of your foot