How does one’s footwear affect the SFST performance?

Footwear plays a significant role in influencing an individual’s performance during the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFST). Inappropriate footwear can hinder balance and mobility, which are crucial for successfully completing these tests. For example, high heels, flip-flops, or other types of shoes that do not provide adequate support or grip can negatively impact a person's surefootedness and overall stability.

When conducting tests that evaluate motor skills and coordination, such as the Walk-and-Turn or One-Leg Stand, wearing proper footwear is essential. Shoes that are too tight, have slippery soles, or provide inadequate ankle support can lead to missteps, loss of balance, or difficulty in executing the required movements. This can create a false impression of impairment due to alcohol or drugs, rather than attributing the performance issues to unsuitable footwear.

Understanding the impact of footwear emphasizes the importance of a fair assessment during SFSTs, ensuring that any observed difficulties are reflective of the individual’s capabilities and not external factors like improper shoes.