Footnotes: The Official Blog of Footwear etc.

Fabulous New Shoes for Spring from BeautiFeel and Naot!

When it’s cold and sloppy outside, I like to think of how wonderful the warmer weather will be.  With warmer weather comes great new shoes! Seeing the new styles from BeautiFeel and Naot is a real morale booster and really makes me look forward to the spring. Need to indulge in a warm weather shoe fantasy? Here are a few models to help you get in the mood for Spring:

BeautiFeel is known for superb quality and outstanding comfort, and they don’t disappoint with the Stefania sandal. Available in Black or Champagne Luminous Suede, this slingback sandal is sure to become one of your favorite dress shoes. The footbed is pillow soft, and the latex rubber sole provides a comfortable and durable base. I really love the luxurious suede upper with its decorative button. This is an elegant style for those special occasions. I’m ready to use these for a night out on the town!

 An elegant flat from BeautiFeel is the Skyler. What sets this beautiful flat apart from the masses is the heel-to-toe footbed, which is anatomically contoured so that it reduces shock and stabilizes your arch. It’s like walking on memory foam! The anti-slip outsole is flexible and durable as well. This may be your most comfortable flat, and the gorgeous styling makes this a versatile show that can go with a variety of outfits. You can’t beat the quality of BeautiFeel shoes; check them out and see how they can change your life!

I absolutely LOVE Naot shoes. I have two pairs of sandals and I can’t wait to expand my collection with some of the new styles for the spring. A beautiful platform slide that is appropriate for both dressy and casual wear is the Enchant. Available in Polar Sea/Navy Patent Leather , Black Rave/Black Crinkled Leather, or Mirror/Metal Leather, the Enchant is an incredibly versatile shoe. As with all Naot shoes, there’s an anatomical cork and latex footbed that provides outstanding support for your feet . I love the 2 ¾” height of the heel yet the wedge makes it so easy to wear.

Need a shoe that looks great with dresses as well as jeans? Check out the Naot Revere. This Black Raven/Black Patent Leather shoe is perfect to go from a casual day at work to an exciting evening out. The 2” heel height is just high enough to be girly, yet low enough to be easy to wear. I love the cut-out details on the upper, they visually lighten up the shoe and provide some extra elegance. I rely on arch support and deep heel cups for comfort, and this shoe contains both. I’m excited to try this out!

Indulge yourself in some exciting shoes from BeautiFeel and Naot. I look for any ways that I can pamper my feet, why not do so and improve your mood at the same time?

 

If You Like UGG’s Classic Cardy, You’ll LOVE the New UGG Leland!

There’s an UGG boot for everyone. I love how the cardy is like a warm sweater for your feet. Now, you have another option in that realm: the UGG Leland. It’s even more luxurious, and why not pamper your feet this winter?

The Leland is a wool/cotton blended and lambswool/cashmere blended boot. You’re not just putting on a sweater for your feet, you’re putting on a bit of luxury! The Leland not only has that warm and cozy “knitted” shaft, it also has a cushioned foam insole with a sheepskin sock that keeps your feet comfy and dry. I love the versatility of this boot; you can wear it up (like knee socks), fold it down, or even slouch it down for an informal look.

Leland also has four side buttons on its 8” shaft, and a suede heel (for durability). As always with all UGG products, it contains the highest quality sheepskin liner, which holds up great over time and wicks away moisture to help keep your feet comfortable.  Available in Black/Charcoal Cotton Knit, this boot is sure to be a hit in your household! Check it out while it’s still available!

Remember Earth Shoes? Now there are New Types for Everyone!

I remember the Earth shoes from the ‘70s. They had a negative heel, and were fairly clunky-looking. But they were popular and comfortable, and reflected the fashion sense of the day. Earth shoes are back, and updated for today’s tastes in fashion and comfort. There are actually three Earth brands available: Kalso Earth Shoes (the original wellness shoes with a negative heel), Earthies Shoes (very fashion  forward wellness shoes), and Earth Shoes (contemporary designs for the everyday working woman).

Kalso Earth shoes feature a negative heel, setting your heel slightly lower than your toes. Why is this a good thing? It helps you improve your posture and reduce stress on your joints. It also allows you to emulate the feeling of walking barefoot in sand, which is optimal for not just your feet but your entire body. The positioning of your body makes a world of difference in how your joints feel, so Kalso Earth excel in that realm. These shoes are available for both men and women, in a wide variety of styles!

For women, I particularly like the Kalso Earth Women’s Daily. It’s a great all-around shoe for everyday wear. It’s an easy to wear, slip-on shoe with a soft leather upper. You could wear this to work with dressier attire, or with casual clothes. Available in Black, Navy, Almond and Rosso, this could be your next favorite shoe!

A great shoe for men is the Kalso Earth Men’s Classic Too. Available in Bark Leather, this lace-up shoe is versatile enough to go with most of your wardrobe. It also doesn’t look clunky, so you can get all the benefits of the negative heel and have some style as well.

If you like feminine-styled footwear, you’ll love Earthies shoes. They are really stylish, fashion-forward designs that feature cupped heels, cradled footbeds, and a graduated arch support. Women can feel confident that they’ll get great support and comfort in very cute shoes!

The Earthies Cristiana is a gorgeous bootie with cutouts in the upper and a peep toe. This suede shoe has a 3” heel and a zipper in the back for easy on-off. Yet even with that heel, the cradle toe area distributes your weight away from the toes, and the anatomic arch provides outstanding support . Who knew that a shoe this beautiful could feel good on your feet?

Earth Shoes are designed for the everyday working woman. These contemporary designs include dress shoes for work, and casual shoes for the rest of your life. I particularly like the fact that they are stylish but don’t have huge heels, and are versatile enough to wear with most of my wardrobe! Comfort is key in this brand; each shoe contains a padded heel area to displace shock, reinforced arch support for stability, and multi-density latex cushioning to really pamper your feet.

My current favorite Earth Shoe is the Wisteria in Bat Leather. The footbed feels really soft and comfortable, yet supportive, and I love how the leather straps are actually two different shades of brown. The 2” heel makes this shoe really comfortable and easy to wear and I can spend an entire work day in these shoes with no issues at all. It looks good with dress slacks as well as jeans too!

The Earth brand – meaning Kalso Earth, Earthies, and Earth Shoes – covers all your footwear needs. Find a pair that makes you happy today!

The UGG Bailey Button Mini: the Perfect UGG for ME!

I love UGG boots but I’ve always had some minor issues. The talls and the shorts don’t fit my calves properly, I can’t get the Bailey Button Triplet because my daughter has one of those (and heaven forbid we actually have the same style boot!), the Bailey Button has been an option, but now I have an even better choice for me: the UGG Bailey Button Mini!

What makes this boot perfect for me is that it’s just tall enough to keep my feet and ankles toasty warm. I tend to not wear pants tucked into boots, so having something taller is really unnecessary for me. I’m also really pleased that UGG Australia listened to its customers who had issues getting their feet into the Classic Mini boots; the seam around the top can make it a little challenging to get on and off. The Bailey Button Mini eliminates this issue; the boot is easy to get on and off because of the button closure and the side seam on the boot. It’s cute, stylish, and warm. What’s not to love?

As with all UGG boots, the Bailey Button Mini contains the highest quality twinface sheepskin available. This genuine sheepskin wicks away moisture and helps keep your feet warm and dry. They are durable, light and flexible, and contains an elastic closure with a wood button to keep the boot closed. The boot shaft height is 5”, perfect for keeping your ankles warm and not getting in the way of your slacks. Yet the boots also look great with any attire, like leggings or the like. I’m thrilled that there’s an UGG boot that is absolutely perfect for my needs! It’s available in a variety of colors, like chocolate, chestnut, boysenberry, sand, black, and tea rose. There’s a color for every outfit in your closet!

Definitely check out the UGG Bailey Button Mini. You’ll love how it makes your feet feel, and how it complements your wardrobe.

 

Clogs that are Lightweight and Slip Resistant? Yes!

I’m a big fan of clogs. They’re always comfortable and I’ve had great luck with them helping my feet and back feel better. I love the support, and the different styles. Now there’s a new kid on the block with not only the great style and comfort I’m used to, but outstanding slip resistance: footwear by Klogs!

Actually, Klogs Footwear makes more than just clogs. They also make Mary Janes, and clogs with open or closed backs. There are even unisex models to choose from!

What sets this brand apart is the superb slip resistance of the sole. Klogs actually exceed the standard set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) under dry, wet, and oily surface conditions. Isn’t it great to have peace of mind while you work that your shoes can help you avoid slips and falls?

All Klogs have cushioned, removable footbeds with deep heel cups that provide great shock absorption and support. The outsoles are non-marking, and the shoes are washable and durable. Available in either polyurethane or leather, they provide outstanding softness and comfort. You can even pop out the footbed to use your own orthotics or inserts. The polyurethane Klogs are even made in the USA!

I love the variety of styles available for men and women.  For an open back style, the Unisex Dusty is a great choice. This polyurethane model wipes clean with soap and water, and is a great all-around clog for extended wear. It’s available in a variety of colors, including white, chestnut, forest, and even “splatter.”

Fans of closed back shoes will love the unisex Naples. Comfort is assured with side elastic gores and a padded collar around the ankle. It’s available in a variety of colors and patterns, like lavender print leather, or taupe suede tapestry. There’s something for everyone in this model!

If you like Mary Janes, check out the Women’s Ashford. It has an adjustable hook and loop strap with a faux button detail to help you have a custom fit. As with the other Klogs models, the Ashford has a fantastic footbed that provides great arch support with antimicrobial, odor resistant properties.

Note on sizing: for unisex sizing, women should order their normal sizes. If a woman is a half size, go one half size UP. Men should order a full size up and WIDE. If a man is a half size, order up 1.5 sizes up and WIDE.

Not all clogs are alike! Take a look at the fantastic comfort and slip-resistant properties of Klogs Footwear. You’ll love how they feel over the course of the day!

Athletic Shoes for the New Year!

Isn’t everyone’s standard New Year’s Resolution to lose weight or get fit? Seems like this is an annual event for many of us! If you actually plan to DO this, you need to have comfortable, supportive shoes for the activity you choose. Why not treat yourself to a new pair of athletic shoes? Footwear etc. has a wide variety of shoes that would be perfect for all of your exercise needs.

I need motion control in my athletic shoes because I tend to overpronate. I also need outstanding stability and support, since my feet are prone to stress fractures. New Balance has just come out with an update to their popular 1123 model, the 1540. Available for both men and women, this shoe excels in stability for runners and is also a great shoe for walkers. The big difference between this model and the 1123 is that the 1540 is lighter. I love the fact that these are so easy to wear, I might even get up off the couch to do so! As always with New Balance shoes, there’s a nice high, wide toe box and great ventilation so that your toes aren’t squished and your feet stay cool and dry. They’re even certified under Medicare as a Diabetic shoe, so you know that they’ll be good to your feet. And they’re made in the USA!

ASICS makes some fabulous running and walking shoes. For walkers, the Gel-Tech Walker Neo 2 is a very supportive shoe that will make exercise walking or strolling very enjoyable. These are lightweight yet highly supportive shoes, and even have the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association. They are designed to enhance your foot’s natural gait while providing maximum comfort. Definitely worth a try! ASICS also makes some outstanding running shoes, for your neighborhood or the trail. Check them out!

Need new hiking shoes? You can’t go wrong with Merrell products. They were designed for great support and rugged durability. I really like the Moab – my favorite version is waterproof and can take whatever trail has to dish out!  The anatomical footbed keeps your feet supported, while the breathable bellows tongue and mesh upper keep your feet cool and comfortable. The Moab is available in an oxford style as well as a mid-boot for both men and women, and are fantastic for those weekend outings.

Fans of Barefoot running shoes will be thrilled by the choices from Vibram Fivefingers. The KSO model for both men and women is a particularly nice all-around shoe, suitable for running, water sports, yoga, and other fitness activities. They’re flexible, are slip-resistant, and really let you feel the pavement under your feet. If you don’t know anything about barefoot technology, definitely check them out to see if they are right for you! Many runners swear by these shoes. If you don’t want a lot of support, these could be the answer to your prayers!

These are just a few models from some of our favorite brands to help entice you off the couch this year. Stay motivated, and treat your feet kindly with some new athletic shoes!

 

Not all Shoe Laces are Created Equal!

If you’re like me, you never think about shoe laces until one breaks on you. But when it does, keeping your shoe on properly becomes a big hassle. Footwear etc. carries several brands of laces, which can work on all sorts of shoes!

Need dress shoe laces? Check out the Mephisto replacement shoe laces in black. These 80 cm long cotton laces are specific for dress shoes and are a round, braided style. They’ll look great with all sorts of dress shoes!

For casual or walking shoes, Mephisto also makes replacement laces in tan, and black. These are 90 cm long and are flat and woven from 100% cotton. You can also get them in Birch or Espresso in 90, 115, 120, and 130 cm lengths.

Ecco also makes replacement shoe laces that are suitable for many types of casual walking shoes. Available in white and black in 32” lengths, these round braided laces are treated with wax for extra strength.

Cadillac has an interesting type of lace, called the Comfort Lace. These black rope-shaped laces are 30” long, but contain collapsible knots. These knots produce “tension zones” at each eyelet, which helps you maintain tension in particular areas. These laces eliminate the need to keep retying your shoes due to slippage. The Comfort Lace shoe laces are a great choice if you find you need to re-tie your shoes more than you’d like to.

Don’t be fooled by cheap knock-offs; the Mephisto, Ecco and Cadillac laces are very high quality and hold up well over time. Consider any of these when you need a new pair of laces!

 

Support for those Sheepskin Boots!

During these cold wintery months, loads of people love to get sheepskin boots for the holidays. I don’t blame them, I love the warmth and coziness of sheepskin. My feet, however, balk when there’s no arch support in my shoes. That’s why I love the insoles and orthotics from Superfeet and Lynco.  If you’ve got good quality sheepskin boots, you can swap out the insoles they came with and insert one of these products.

Superfeet makes the Unisex Wooly White Insole. They are a fantastic addition to any sheepskin boot, slipper, rain boot, or even regular shoes that have removable insoles. These insoles can help align the body and decrease foot pain. The firm footbed really provides terrific support, and the merino wool top cover helps keep your feet comfortable and dry.

Lynco makes the L900 Sheepskin orthotic. They contain a shearling fiber top cover that provides wonderful shock absorption and cushioning. Available for both men and women, this orthotic helps stabilize your feet and are specifically designed for medium and high arches.

You don’t have to suffer from poor arch support with sheepskin boots. Try the Superfeet Wooly White or Lynco L900 Sheepskin Orthotic. Have some cozy support in your boots this season!

 

You Can Never Have Too Many Socks!

I don’t know about you, but I always need new socks. Sometimes it’s because they disappear around the house (or from the dryer). Other times, they’ve fallen apart. Until now, I’ve usually purchased cheap socks from the local big box store. The socks I’ve purchased from Footwear etc. (all Hot Sox), however, have held up very nicely; but I really could use some nice, solid-colored socks for myself and for gifts. Enter Socksmith and Monarch Socks to the rescue! No more lousy quality socks for me, now I’m getting some great quality at reasonable prices.

Socksmith’s basic roll-top solid socks come in both knee high length as well as trouser length. They come in a variety of colors, and fit women’s shoe sizes 5 ½ – 10 ½. With 66% cotton, 32% nylon and 2% spandex, these socks are breathable and comfortable so that you can feel great throughout your day. These are certainly going on my holiday gift list!

Monarch socks are exclusive to Footwear etc. and are the ultimate in comfortable dress socks for men. Available in black, brown, taupe, navy and charcoal, these socks are sure to please even the most discriminating of wearers. They are lightly cushioned to provide comfort and softness. Made from 70% cotton, 25% nylon and 5% spandex, they are also breathable and durable. Monarch Socks fit men’s sizes 8-13 and are a fabulous choice.

Need socks? Consider the choices from Socksmith and Monarch Socks. I’m stocking up on these!

Holiday Party Shoes!

‘Tis the season for those holiday parties. I love having an excuse to dress up, and I love having the excuse to break out the fancy shoes. As you navigate this holiday season, consider updating your dressy wardrobe with some new, gorgeous shoes from Footwear etc. Here are a few of my current favorites to go with my fancy attire:

The BeautiFeel Women’s Payton is a strappy sandal with a cute little rosette on the top of the shoe. This handmade shoe is made from the highest quality patent leather, and has a cushioned insole for superior comfort. The 2 ¾” heel looks great with my dressy dresses, but isn’t too high to be comfortable. This timeless classic is perfect for any fancy gathering, whether it’s during the holiday season or during the rest of the year.

Earthies has some adorable dress shoes out now. I really love the Cristiana. It’s a suede shoe with a peep toe and peek-a-boo cutouts.  You wouldn’t expect a shoe this pretty to have an anatomic arch and a cupped heel to set the foot into the proper supported position, but it has all of these features. The 3” heel adds elegance to this design, and the zip up the back allows for easy on-off.  It’s also a great excuse for getting a pedicure!

Need a dressy flat? How about the Indigo by Clarks Tori Anne. You could wear this flat with your fanciest outfit or with a pair of jeans! That’s phenomenal versatility! The pleading detail at the heel adds visual interest, while the printed leather makes it look really elegant. Available in Burgundy, Chestnut, or Black, it’s a wonderful little all-around flat.

A really interesting shoe is the Pikolinos Women’s Romana Slip-on. I love the tapestry look to the upper, which is also augmented with an embroidered leather detail. There are hidden elastic gores to make this shoe easy to get on and off. Even the topline of the shoe is scalloped for more visual interest. I could see wearing this with a dress, skirt, or even dressy pantsuit. This is a really unique-looking shoe, and the hand-sewn details really pop. The 1 ¾” heel is also very comfortable.

Holiday parties are a great excuse for some retail therapy. Check out the beautiful dress shoes at Footwear etc. Your feet deserve to celebrate too!

 

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