Footnotes: The Official Blog of Footwear etc.

Category Archives: Arch Support

Flip Flop Fans: You’ll Love the New Models and Colors from Orthaheel!

The most comfortable and supportive flip flops I have ever worn, bar none, are from Orthaheel. This brand excels in making flip flops that are actually GOOD for your feet, as opposed to most other flip flops you’ll come across. And not only are they exceptionally comfortable and supportive, they are really cute! Why anyone would choose anything less than the quality and style of an Orthaheel is beyond me.

Designed by a podiatrist, recommended by Dr. Andrew Weil, and recipient of the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, Orthaheel shoes are the ultimate in casual, comfort wear. The Tri-Planar Motion Control footbed contains a deep heel cup and a great arch support to help provide stability and support. This footbed helps you realign your feet and thus the rest of your body, which in turn alleviates stress on your feet and knees. Orthaheel shoes also provide outstanding shock absorption. Could these be the perfect flip flops and slides? Perhaps!

I really love the new Orthaheel Women’s Talia. Available in Camel and Turquoise, this adorable flip flop boasts a dainty flower on the top of the upper. It’s a dainty sandal you could wear with almost any outfit! Nobody would ever guess that this beautiful shoe actually provides orthotic comfort and support. This is definitely going on my wish list!

Like slides? Check out the Orthaheel Unisex Kiwi Slide. Perfect for both men and women, this slide will get you through the warm weather with style and comfort. If you tend to overpronate, Orthaheel products like the Kiwi will definitely help reduce that issue. The adjustable upper makes this slide a great choice whether your feet are narrow or a little wide.

Another dressy/girly choice is the Orthaheel Women’s Carla. The faux jewels and metallics really add some pizzazz to your footwear! Perfect to wear with jeans or shorts, or even for a night out on the town, the Carla is a great new addition to the Orthaheel line.

Fans of the Orthaheel Wave 2 and Kinetic can also rejoice in new colors available for these models. What a great way to expand the wardrobe!

Let Orthaheel’s new introductions of colors and models help you get excited for the warm weather. Maybe it’s time to plan that beach vacation…..

 

As Seen in Runner’s World Magazine: The New Balance 860SB2 Running Shoe

The folks at Runner’s World magazine know what they’re talking about when they rate shoes. After all, they are the ones who pound the pavement, and they understand exactly how important exceptional quality footwear is. The New Balance 860SB2 not only fits the bill, it’s actually an Editor’s Choice selection. What sets this shoe apart from the gazillion other running shoes out there?

It’s all about the support and cushioning. Having foam padding under the foot, a wide toebox for expansion, and outstanding support creates a stable and soft landing. This is especially useful for high-mileage runners, but every runner can benefit from these features.

One of New Balance’s most technologically advanced models, the 860SB2 contains New Balance’s most advanced shock absorption and cushioning materials in the midsole. The midsole is also 24% lighter than standard form. The dual-density medial post helps keep you from overpronating. The outsole is extremely durable, and the cushioning in the midfoot also adds to the shock absorption properties. Your feet will stay cool and dry yet supported with the synthetic/mesh upper. All of these phenomenal features put together makes the 860SB2 an outstanding shoe, which is nothing unusual for New Balance!

Available for both men and women, the New Balance 860SB2 gets superior reviews for a reason. Do your feet a favor and treat them to an outstanding running shoe. You’ll feel the difference around the house, or at mile 26!

 

Expand Your Dansko Collection with Great New Sandals!

I love Dansko shoes. I have 3 different pairs. They are my go-to shoes whenever my feet hurt. I love the support they provide, and the mild rocker sole action that occurs with every step. I’m really excited to see that Dansko has added several new sandals to its line, and I can’t wait to try them!

I can easily see myself wearing the Dansko Rowena with jeans or skirts. The Rowena is a causal style that is definitely feminine but not too girly. Available in Brown Crazy Horse Leather and Black Full Grain Leather, the Rowena makes a statement that the wearer is fashion forward and carefree. Even though the heel height is 3 inches, it’s incredibly comfortable. You can also count on Dansko to have a contoured fotobed and outstanding arch support in all of its shoes, and the Rowena is no exception.

For an easy-to-wear slide, check out the Sophie. It has a pillow-soft footbed for luxurious comfort, and two adjustable straps for a custom fit. This shoe migrates from your daily activities to your evenings out with ease, and you can be assured for comfort all day long due to its lightweight construction. Casual enough to wear with shorts, or dressy enough to wear with slacks or a skirt, the Sophie can easily become an integral part of your wardrobe.

Sometimes you just need to really pamper your feet, and the Dansko Tasha does that with ease. The upper is made with Veg Leather, which is a buttery-soft leather that has a rich luster. The upper is lightweight and molds to the shape of your foot. I particularly love the unusual styling of this shoe; the curved lines, cut-out in the heel, and 2 ¾” heel are elegant and beautiful. I also really love the soft, padded insole that provides great support.

The shoe I’m expecting to really take off this spring is the Dani. This is a really versatile, all-around sandal that can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood for your attire of the day. The 1 ½” heel provides outstanding shock absorption, and the sock lining wicks away moisture to keep your feet cool and comfortable. Available in brown or black leather, this shoe is something you could wear every day with almost anything. And as always, the Dansko quality and comfort makes this shoe so comfortable you’ll want to wear it all the time.

If you love Dansko shoes as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to check out these new sandals. If you’ve never experienced the outstanding ccomfort and style of a Dansko product, what are you waiting for?

 

Mephisto’s New Spring 2012 Collection is Here!

It may be February, but this is the time of year when all our favorite manufacturers come out with their new Spring lines. Mephisto is no exception, and has a bunch of cute sandals and slip-ons to help you gear up for the warmer weather. Men and women both have a variety of options; here are a few of my favorites:

The Mephisto Women’s Niza: the ultimate easy-to-wear shoe. It’s a great casual slip-on with a nubuck leather upper. Mephisto’s Soft Air technology provides great cushioning as the shoe provides the outstanding support you’d expect from every Mephisto shoe. The leather lining allows your feet to stay cool and comfortable. This would be a fantastic shoe to wear with jeans, or even casual slacks. Available in Black Pearl, Dark Brown Pearl, or Dark Grey Pearl nubuck, this classic design is sure to be a hit.

Looking for a casual sandal? Check out the Mephisto Women’s Altina. You can walk for hours in this shoe! The sole and footbed are specifically designed to absorb shock. The cork footbed also provides outstanding stability. This could be that perfect shoe you want to take on a vacation where you know you’ll be doing a lot of walking, yet it looks like anything BUT a utilitarian shoe. Enjoy the stylish comfort of this beautiful sandal.

Men, if you need a dress shoe, consider the Gaetan. It’s a gorgeous shoe that you could wear with a suit, or even casual slacks. The classic design is made with smooth leather uppers, leather linings, and a cushioned footbed for added comfort. I really enjoy the bicycle-toe styled stitching on this shoe, it makes the shoe look very classy. This may be your new go-to shoe for work and beyond!

For a great new warm-weather slide, men will enjoy the Mephisto Men’s Zach. It has a mild rocker sole that really helps diminish leg strain as well as provide outstanding shock absorption.  You’ll definitely feel the support in the cork and latex footbed, and the soft leather upper feels great on your feet.

This is just the tip of the iceberg for the new Mephisto styles. Check out the web site and see what else might call your name!

Experience VersoShock Trampoline Technology with Gravity Defyer Shoes!

You CAN have a spring in your step. Literally. That’s the beauty of Gravity Defyer shoes. With all the great technology out there these days, there is absolutely no need for you to put up with shoes that don’t have adequate shock absorption. Gravity Defyer Shoes are terrific in this respect; they have some of the best shock absorption properties of any shoes on the market. What makes them so special? Read on…

Each Gravity Defyer shoe contains VersoShock Trampoline technology. This means that there’s a spring in the heel, which absorbs shock on impact. It also propels you forward as the spring returns to its original position.  The twin stabilizers provide lateral stability, and the midsole creates a natural rocking motion that protects your metatarsal bones. The removable Comfort-Fit Insole is extremely soft and protects against irrigation, yet can be removed if you need an orthotic. This technology provides the ultimate in shock absorption, you’ll love the way it feels!

Gravity Defyer has some new models out that are great for everyday wear:

The Women’s Riley is an oxford-styled shoe with a brass buckle for visual interest. The leather upper is soft yet durable. Available in black or taupe, this is a terrific shoe for work, or casual wear.

Like booties? Check out the Women’s Emma. This model also features accent stitching and a prominent arch strap. It even adds 1 ¾” to your height!

Make the most of technology with Gravity Defyer Shoes. The spring in your step will feel great!

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?

 

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!

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!

 

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!

 

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