Footnotes: The Official Blog of Footwear etc.

Category Archives: Mary-Janes

Clarks’ Unstructured Line: Ultimate Comfort in Contemporary Styles

Written on February 4, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I’ve always been a fan of Clarks shoes, and I’ve noticed recently many new models begin with “un.” Like “Un.Actual,” or “Un.Crow,” or “Un.Jib.” It seemed like a strange way to name shoes, so I did a little checking…

Turns out all the names of the shoes beginning with “un” are part of Clark’s Unstructured line. This particular class of shoes excels in keeping your feet cool and dry, with technology specifically designed to make you as comfortable as possible. The Clarks ACS (Air Circulation System)specifically brings in fresh air to your feet, while venting warm, moist air out of the shoe. And on top of that, the shoes are extremely flexible, lightweight, produce good traction, have very good shock absorption, and have really soft, leather uppers with lambskin linings. What’s not to love?

My favorite dressy sandal is the Clarks Un.Crow. With its stable 2 ¼” heel, the Un.Crow was great when I had to stand for hours at my high school reunion. My feet stayed cool and comfortable, even in heat and humidity! I also love the fact that I can wear them with both dressy clothes as well as casual clothes. A phenomenal all-around sandal that I wear year-round.

Like clogs? Check out the Clarks Un.Actual. It has a beautiful t-strap design, with all the comfort properties of the Unstructured line. Don’t be fooled by the wood-appearance of the sole; the outsole is made of lightweight PU with EVA filler and rubber strike pads. No heavy, clunky shoe here! Beautiful, easy-to-wear clog for any occasion.

My next sandal purchase will be the Un.Jib. I need another pair of casual sandals for warm weather, and the Un.Jib is fantastic. The two adjustable straps will give me a custom fit, and the soft leather insole and upper will feel fantastic. What a cool, comfortable, stylish sandal for everyday wear. I can’t wait to get my pair!

For the ultimate in casual comfort, check out the Clarks Unstructured Line of shoes. The hardest decision you’ll have is choosing which pair (or pairs!) to wear!

Also posted in Clarks Shoes, Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Dress Shoes, Footwear etc., Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , ,

Make No Mistake: Danskos Aren’t Just Clogs!

Written on February 3, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I love Dansko shoes. I even own 3 pairs of them. And each of them is wildly different from the other. Two of them are clogs (and each is radically from the other), but “one of these things is not like the others….” Yes, Dansko makes shoes that bear little resemblance to clogs! Yet with every Dansko product, your feet will have the same phenomenal benefits from these marvelously supportive shoes. What makes these shoes so special?

Rocker bottom sole – the back of the heel and the toe box are curved upward, so that as you walk, you rock forward. This takes pressure off your plantar fascia, and can alleviate foot pain. Yet this sole does provide outstanding stability, allowing you to stand for hours!

Superlative shock absorption – the wider heel provides lateral stability and more supportive heel strike. And the durable outsole actually provides shock absorption similar to that of athletic shoes!

Many models are certified slip resistant, and Danskos are endorsed by the American Podiatric Association. These stylish shoes are really good for your feet!

My first pair of Danskos is a Mary Jane style, similar to the Marcelle. I’ve been able to wear them with dressy clothes, with jeans, to work, out on the town, etc. I can stand for hours (and I have!) in these shoes. Their support is outstanding.

I recently got a pair of clogs that are different from any I’d seen before: the Kelsey. The outsole is more cushioned than any other clogs, and the insole actually has soft foam that conforms to my feet! These are phenomenally comfortable, and are the perfect casual shoe for everyday wear.

My all-time favorite, however, is Dansko’s flagship shoe: the Professional. I have it in Cordovan Cabrio Leather, which is a great color to wear with lots of different outfits. This is my go-to shoe for when my feet hurt. In fact, when I visited my podiatrist, these were the shoes she was wearing! I’ve also noticed these shoes on many medical professionals at our local clinic. The sole is fairly rigid, yet you can feel the support and they are incredibly comfortable even if you have to stand for long periods of time. I can truly understand why the American Podiatric Association endorses this shoe; my feet always feel better when I wear these. You can even choose colors and patterns to reflect your personality! (Green snakeskin, anyone?)

I am delighted to see that Dansko also offers boots, shoes that look like pumps, sandals and slides, and an assortment of shoes for men and kids as well! Dansko is always coming out with new styles, and I’m always excited to see what’s available. I feel like any style they come up with is going to pamper my feet, so I try to get styles to reflect my mood. Check out the wide variety of possibilities with Dansko!

Also posted in Arch Support, Boots, Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Dansko, Dress Shoes, Footwear etc., Kids Shoes, Men's Shoes, Plantar Fasciitis, Sandals, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , ,

New MBT Models for Spring!

Written on January 28, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

MBT fans can rejoice at the gorgeous new styles from MBT this spring. Long gone are the days of few choices; there are literally loads of shoes you can wear for all different occasions. Men and women both have many styles to choose from, so there’s a great feeling shoe for every occasion, and every person! And all of these shoes have MBT’s patented rocker sole, which takes pressure off your joints, creates natural instability to make you walk and stand straighter, help you tone muscles, and can alleviate many types of back, hip, and foot pain.

Women’s styles include:

Katika – a great little sandal for warm weather. You can get a truly custom fit from the hook and loop closures on top of the foot and around the ankle. It’s a sporty and versatile sandal available in black, brown, and birch.

Kesho Mary Jane – a classy-looking Mary Jane in soft nubuck leather you can use for sporty or dressy applications. This shoe is available in black, tan, and military to give you lots of fashion choices.

Mahuta – sporty athletic-styled shoe that’s perfect for those power walks, or even power shopping at the mall. Available in aqua and white mesh to keep your feet cool and comfortable.

Meli – rocker sole technology meets “boat shoe” style! Available in navy or tan, this shoe lets you have some fun with this very different style for MBTs!

Nafasi – a great little oxford that you’ll want to wear all the time. Pamper your feet in this stylish shoe that’s available in white or black with full and split-grain leather.

Pia – a dressy, streamlined sandal perfect for work or a night out on the town. Available in black and beige, the Pia offers a customized fit with hook and loop closures at the top of your foot and around the ankle.

Tabia – now MBT makes sporty slides! So easy to wear, so versatile for your wardrobe. Available in caviar black and tan, this comfy slide will be a summer favorite!

Men also have some fantastic new styles available:

Asante- if you love loafers, you’ll really love the Asante. It has the classic loafer style we all love, combined with MBT’s phenomenal rocker sole technology. This shoe looks great with a suit, or even with jeans. You’ll love this comfortable, versatile shoe that’s available in black full-grain leather.

Jawabu – a light and airy sandal that will keep your feet comfortable all summer long. Available in black and chocolate.
Mahuta – a great all-around athletic-styled shoe that you’ll love wearing anytime. Available in blue mesh or white mesh, this stylish shoe will have you looking forward to those fitness walks!

Meli – now you can have a “boat shoe” style for casual wear. Try them out in navy or sand for complete wardrobe versatility.

Nafasi – this casual oxford is available in several colors that you’ll love: black, white, charcoal, and syrup! You’ll have a hard time deciding which one you like best. Check out this fantastic new style for comfort anytime.

All of the Spring 2011 models are available for pre-order right now, and will be in stock and ready for delivery by mid-February. Get ready for warm weather with these great new styles! Your feet will love the TLC that these shoes provide. MBT is the gold standard for rocker-sole shoes; make the investment for yourself!

Also posted in Athletic Shoes, Comfort Shoes, Dress Shoes, Footwear etc., MBT Shoes, Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

True Balance Technology in New Balance Athletic Shoes, and for Aravon’s Riley and Ria!

Written on October 21, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I love New Balance shoes. They consistently fit my feet well, through a variety of styles and a variety of sizes as my feet have changed over time.

Now there’s another new style for me to love: New Balance’s True Balance. Another great toning shoe from my favorite athletic shoe company!

As with all New Balance shoes, the True Balance models come in narrow, medium, and wide widths. There’s no sacrifice in comfort here, there’s a width for everyone.

But the exciting part about these shoes is that they are terrific toning shoes! Using their True Balance Sole, these shoes create natural instability so that you unconsciously work a little harder with each step. The solid rubber outsole provides superior durability, and the balance board technology contains a spring system design that helps you tone as you walk. The ABZORB insert also provides great shock absorption, protecting all of your joints. We can all use that, can’t we? And True Balance technology also helps those of us with plantar fasciitis, keeping that sheath stretched as we tone our glutes and calves.

The New Balance True Balance shoes come in several styles, including: the WW850 (which comes in silver, white, black, or light blue mesh), and the WW1100 (which is available in silver with blue, silver with black, or white).

But it’s not just New Balance coming out with the True Balance technology; you can also get more formal shoes that utilize it as well. Enter the Aravon Riley and Ria for everyday wear!

The Aravon Riley (sneaker style) and Ria (Mary Jane style) utilize all of the True Balance benefits but in a shoe you could even wear to the office. The hook and loop closures ensure a custom fit, the antimicrobial sock liners help keep your feet dry and odor-free, and the removable Velocor footbeds allow you to use custom orthotics if you need them. Here are the toning shoes you can use for everyday wear, without them looking like they belong in a gym!

Discover the benefits of the True Balance technology in New Balance and Aravon shoes. There’s a toning shoe for every aspect of your life!

Also posted in Aravon Shoes, Athletic Shoes, Comfort Shoes, Footwear etc., Insoles, Muscle Toning Shoes, New Balance Shoes, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

Dansko Professional Pink Ribbon Clog for the Cure!

Written on October 11, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I love Dansko products. My Mary Janes have gotten me through work, and some long parties. The Kelsey is my ultimate casual comfort shoe. My go-to shoe for whenever my feet hurt (for any reason) is the Professional. And now, I have another reason to love Dansko. They’ve come out with a Professional in pink ribbon patent leather to support Breast Cancer Research.

For every pair of Professionals in pink ribbon patent leather purchased, Dansko will donate $5 to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, up to $25,000. Even your shoe choice can help support this incredibly important cause.

The Dansko Professional is the premier clog for all-around use. I regularly wear mine to work, with dressier clothes as well as jeans. I see lots of medical professionals and teachers wearing them; they’re great for when you have to stand on your feet all day. They are slip resistant, perfect for slick environments at work or during sloppy weather. They provide exceptional support and stability. Using the rocker sole has helped keep my feet stretched and alleviates my issues with plantar fasciitis. I love the soft, high-quality leather used for the upper, and the durability of the polyurethane outsole. And now, you can get them in pink patent leather to support Breast Cancer Research. Comfort shoes to benefit cancer research? How can it possibly get better?

Check out the stylish Dansko Professionals in Pink Ribbon Patent Leather. They’re not only good for your feet, they’re great for your conscience too. And who knows, maybe increased awareness to the cause might help someone you love.

Also posted in Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Dansko, Dress Shoes, Footwear etc., Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , ,

Need Some “Happy” Shoes? Try Alegria!

Written on September 20, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

We’ve all classified our shoes. There are the stylish shoes. There are the serious shoes. There are the utilitarian shoes. There are the athletic shoes. There are the shoes that go with your favorite outfit. But now, you can get “happy” shoes! Check out the bright colors and patterns from Alegria!

Who knew you could get shoes that can reflect your sense of humor? And not only are they fun to look at, they’re fun and comfortable to wear! Alegria means “happiness,” and you’ll definitely feel happy when you wear them. Alegria shoes don’t come in boring colors; they come in bright, exuberant colors and patterns. Yes, they come in patterns! How about shoes with peace signs and hearts? Or shoes with flowers? Alegria shoes are definitely not for the Dull at Heart!

Another great feature about Alegria shoes is the fact that it has a mild, rocker sole. It adds spring to your step! Many customers have reported that these shoes help their sore feet feel better, and alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis. The rocker action is mostly close to the toe box, but you can definitely gain some benefits from the rocker sole. Alegria shoes are also slip-resistant, so you can feel more secure if you wear them in wet places.

I especially like the Paloma in Sangria Patent Leather. The red patent leather is festive and youthful-looking. The Mary Jane style is very comfortable, especially since the Velcro strap can be easily adjusted to fit your foot. The insole provides very good support, and is nicely cushioned so that you can stand in them for a long time. They made me feel like I was wearing Dorothy’s magic shoes!

Another great style is the Seville, in Wine and Flowers. Here’s a nice, comfy clog with a beautiful floral-patterned upper. It also has great support and cushioning like all Alegria shoes. If these don’t look like happy, upbeat shoes, I don’t know what would be!

Don’t let your shoes drag your mood down, check out the happy shoes from Alegria. Color therapy plus comfort equals a shoe you can have fun with!

Also posted in Alegria Shoes, Arch Support, Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Insoles, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , ,

Drew Shoes: for when your feet need some TLC

Written on September 3, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Seems like everyone I talk to lately has some sort of issue with their feet. Plantar fasciitis, arthritis, diabetes, neuropathy; you name it, sore feet are everywhere. But I just discovered a brand of shoes that cater to “special needs feet”: Drew Shoes.

Recommended by many podiatrists, Drew Shoes are built with some special features specifically intended for those with different types of foot pain.

One of the most important attributes of Drew Shoes is the added depth in the toe box. This is especially nice for people with sensitive toes, such as those with diabetes or arthritis. The added depth also provides extra room for orthotics, if necessary.

Ever notice how when you have foot pain, you are less stable on your feet? Drew shoes can help add stability with their extended medial heel stabilizer, and steel shank under the arch. These help provide support, and allow for less slippage in the heel area. The wide shank and lightweight outsole give additional metatarsal stability.

The padded tongue and cushioned collar also make your feet feel pampered; these put less pressure around your Achilles tendon, and the top of your feet than in conventional shoes.

Just because these shoes are kind to your feet doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style.  In fact, there’s a wide variety of styles that both men and women can wear for very different occasions. Need casual shoes? Take a look at the Delite Mary Jane for women (I particularly like the gray version), or Atlas, for men. Need something dressier? Women can feel very formal with the Isabel Mary Jane, and the men’s Arlington can even go with business attire.

Just because your feet may need some extra care doesn’t mean they have to LOOK like they do. Drew shoes provide stylish comfort in easy-to-wear models!

Also posted in Comfort Shoes, Dress Shoes, Drew Shoes, Men's Shoes, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , ,

On Sale! Limited Availability! Get ‘Em While They Last!

Written on August 18, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Footwear etc. has a bunch of brands on sale that have limited quantities available. Check out these brands for some fabulous deals!

Acorn: these slippers are perfect for insulating your feet against cold tile, or even to just slip on when you go out to get the paper! Comfy and durable, these slippers contain Poliyou® open cell PU foam that is breathable, wicks moisture, and fights odor and bacteria with natural active carbon and Aegis® anti-microbials. The Wooly Scuff in particular is a wonderful all-around choice for a slipper.

Asgi: among the styles still available, check out the Carina bootie. The Soleplex technology provides comfort and a very unique look. This is definitely a great dress shoe! For Mary Jane fans, there are several choices available. I particularly like the Splendor Mary Jane; the strap comes across the top of your foot diagonally, which adds visual interest as well as comfort.

Dunham: men don’t have to be left out of a great sale. Dunham shoes excel in their waterproof and slip-resistant properties as well as support. For a slip-on, look at the Holyoke – it’s available in brown and black. For a lace-up shoe, check out the Oakdale Sport.

Teva: these shoes are well-known for being superb for the Great Outdoors. You won’t bat an eye if you get them wet while on the trail, or on the boat! The Women’s Cerellais a really cute “ballet flat.” Who’d have thought these could be so stylish?

Xsensible: the perfect shoes if you need a little “give” to the uppers, Xsensible’s claim to fame is that these shoes stretch if you need them to! If you get swollen feet during the day, these shoes can help alleviate the discomfort you might feel by the evening. Available in both casual and dressy styles, I really like the Esmerelda in Brown Stretch Leather – perfect for a weekend outing! Also check out the Style in Pampas Grass Leather/Suede – it has beautiful detailing and can give your wardrobe a new look!

Don’t miss out on these incredible prices! Check out these amazing deals while they last!

Also posted in Comfort Shoes, Dress Shoes, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Men's Shoes, Waterproof Shoes, Women's Shoes, Xsensible Shoes | Tagged , , , , ,

Fun In The Sun With Keen Sandals!

Written on June 21, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Fun in the Sun with Keen Sandals!

I’m so looking forward to more warm-weather activities, and Spring/Summer shoes can be very cute, but I often need something a little more rugged. I’ve noticed more and more families wearing Keen sandals, so I had to check them out!

Keens were originally designed as an alternative to traditional boating shoes – better than “river” shoes since they protect the toes, and very water and slip-resistant. The styles have expanded to include boots, Mary-Janes, slip-ons, as well as their extremely popular sandals.

I can see why my sister-in-law’s entire family wears them all summer long. They’re quick to get on and off, they can get wet/sandy/muddy with no consequences, you can go hiking in them, and your feet will have lots of support. Plus they’re cute!

Keen Venice H2 Earth SandalsI’m particularly fond of the Venice, which is casual yet incredibly versatile for all sorts of activities. The trademark look of the Keens has the rubber sole coming up over the toes, which provides protection, and I like the way it looks. The metatomical footbed provides great arch support and cradles the foot so it’s really comfortable too. But the absolute best feature to me is the Aegis Microbe Shield – which helps fight odors and deterioration caused by bacteria. (Ever notice how some of your warm-weather shoes just end up smelling bad after a while? Keens fight against that!) Always a good thing when you have an active family!Keen PTC Mary Jane Shoes

You don’t have to limit your Keens to strictly rugged outdoor activities; they make boots, Mary-Janes,  slip ons, and even lace-up shoes that you can wear to even dressier venues! So if you love the feel Keens, don’t limit them to just the great outdoors, there’s a shoe for almost everywhere!

Also posted in Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Keen Sandals, Men's Shoes, Sandals, Shoes, Waterproof Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Challenge #15: The Facebook MBT Giveaway Contest

Written on March 12, 2010 — 9 Comments Leave a comment

Footwear etc. Facebook Challenge

First of all, we’d like to thank all of those who entered Challenges #13 and #14 (the recent UGG Giveaway Contests). And congratulations to our winners @shopaholicchic and @DinaJ, who came away with free pairs of UGG boots. We loved the hundreds of entries, and are excited to follow it up with another contest to help you spring forward: Challenge #15.

Challenge #15: The Facebook MBT Giveaway Contest starts 3/12/10 and runs through 3/24/10. To enter, simply become a fan of our shiny new Facebook page, and give us a nice warm welcome. One courageous contestant will be rewarded a brand new pair of MBT shoes with a maximum value of $300.

If you’re new to the weekly Footwear etc.  Challenge, you can read the (very simple) rules here. If not, you’re all set: Become a fan of Footwear etc. on Facebook to get started!

Also posted in Athletic Shoes, Footwear etc., MBT Shoes, Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, Plantar Fasciitis, Shoes, Twitter Challenge, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
« Older Entries Newer Entries »

Categories

Privacy Policy | Customer Service | Employment | Track Order | Product Reviews | Contact Us

© Copyright 2010 - Footwear etc.       Become a fan on Facebook       Follow us on Twitter       Watch us on YouTube

what our customers are saying...

"I received my MBT Shoes yesterday. Tried them on and they are PERFECT!!!! I am so excited to have found your website. I will definitely be ordering more from you. Can't wait to share your site with other friends and family!" - Nanci P. - Click here to see more testimonials.