Footnotes: The Official Blog of Footwear etc.

Category Archives: Plantar Fasciitis

MBT Jambo – A Great New Shoe for Casual Wear!

Written on May 30, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Here at Footwear etc. we get lots of calls from customers extolling the virtues of MBT shoes. They help with a litany of joint problems, foot problems, back problems, and fans of these shoes can’t say enough positive things about them. Many customers really like the models with the lower-profile soles; they provide all the benefits of MBT’s rocker-sole technology, yet don’t look clunky like the older models. I really like the improvements MBT has made in the appearance of its new models, and I have to say that one of my favorites is the new Jambo for men and women.

If you like the look of canvas lace-up shoes, you will love the Jambo. It’s casual, yet comfortable and versatile. I love the fact that it provides all the benefits of rocker-sole shoes, but doesn’t really LOOK like a rocker sole shoe. You definitely feel the rocker when they’re on your feet, but to just look at them you’ll notice that it’s very subtle and unobtrusive in appearance.

 I also really like the fact that the shoe is fairly lightweight. Many rocker-sole shoes can be heavy, and while they provide great benefits to your body, I prefer shoes that don’t weigh a lot. These fit the bill. I also really like the fact that the toe box is slightly wider than in many of the new MBT models; it gives my toes a little breathing room. And they’re cute; I can’t wait to take these on vacation!

 Available for women in Red, Black, and Military canvas, and for men in Black and Navy canvas, the Jambo is a great shoe for many occasions. Have fun with MBT’s stylish canvas shoe!

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

Finnamic by Finn Comfort – Rocker Bottom Shoes with Stability and Hand Craftsmanship!

Written on April 22, 2011 — 3 Comments Leave a comment

Toning shoes are typically designed to create natural instability, which helps you utilize muscles your body hasn’t been using already. This instability forces you to stand a little straighter, get more of a muscular workout in your feet and legs, and many customers have reported outstanding results from wearing these shoes. But the typical rocker bottom shoes aren’t for everyone. If you require exceptional arch support, a deep heel cup, etc., you won’t find these features in most toning shoes. If you crave the outstanding quality of a handcrafted shoe, your options have been nonexistent. If you want the benefits of rocker bottom shoes yet have stability issues of your own, you haven’t been able to get them. Until now; Finn Comfort has come to the rescue.

Finn Comfort is known for its outstanding quality shoes. Each pair is handcrafted in Germany. The orthopedic footbed is anatomically designed to provide exceptional support and comfort.  But now the Finnamic collection features a mild rocker sole to gently help you improve posture, alleviate stress on your joints, and tone your muscles. This is the first stable rocker sole shoe I’ve ever seen, and these shoes are incredibly comfortable!

The Sausalitois a cute summer sandal that you won’t want to take off! The hook and loop straps customize the fit around your foot, and the cork footbed provides phenomenal support. Who knew you could get all that in a rocker bottom shoe? These are incredibly comfortable and I can see wearing these as I trek around on my summer vacation.

The Ikebukuro is a comfy oxford that again gives you the best of both worlds: stability and rocker bottom toning properties. This is a great all-around shoe that you could wear every day! Why not treat your feet to something feels GREAT, with styles that go with all sorts of outfits?

If you’re looking for some stability and support while getting rocker bottom benefits, check out the Finnamic collection by Finn Comfort. They are unique, and amazing!

Also posted in Arch Support, Comfort Shoes, Finn Comfort Shoes, Finnamic, Footwear etc., Insoles, Muscle Toning Shoes, Sandals, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Got Plantar Fasciitis?

Written on February 14, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

One of the ailments we hear about the most is Plantar Fasciitis. It can hit you completely out of the blue; one morning you can just wake up with tremendous heel pain. Pain can occur at any time of the day, but it tends to be most prevalent when you first wake up – even before your feet hit the floor! Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by inadequate arch support, obesity, stress on the feet due to walking and standing, and even running. Inflammation of the Plantar Fascia sheath (which runs from the heel to to the toes) can be debilitating! This is a very common problem, and Footwear etc. carries a lot of products that address this issue.

Toning shoes like MBTs, Skechers, and Sano by Mephisto are extremely helpful in terms of keeping the plantar fascia stretched as you walk. This can alleviate the pain in your heel and arch, and can dramatically improve your quality of life. Other types of shoes that are helpful include rocker sole shoes, including Dansko, Aravon, Alegria, and FitFlop. Shoes with outstanding support (thus protecting the arch and having deep heel cups for comfort) include Orthaheel/Dr. Andrew Weil, Mephisto, and Naot. You’ve got lots of choices of styles to choose from.

 A specific product that many doctors recommend is the Strassburg Sock. This sock keeps the foot flexed, so that the plantar fascia can remain in a stretched position. The ideal time to wear this product is at night, so that pain can be alleviated first thing in the morning. Some users even report that the Strassburg Sock helps them heal faster!

The Strassburg Sock is essentially a tube sock with adjustable straps that keep your foot in a neutral (or slightly flexed) position. It’s easy to use, and over time can actually help strengthen the arch of your foot. An especially nice feature is that the Strassburg Sock does not lock your ankle in any one position so that you can move the joint around as your comfort level requires you to.

Another product that many find helpful in alleviating symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis is the Pedag Holiday ¾ Insole. Pedag products are endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association, so you can feel confident that they’re good for your feet. This particular insole is thin enough to fit into most shoes, yet has a firm longitudinal arch. The soft heel cushion relieves pressure on the heel, soft pads support the metatarsal area, and the overall design helps relieve pronation and flattening of the foot. This product is highly recommended for those with Plantar Fascia since it provides excellent support and helps keep your feet in alignment. Definitely worth a try to see if it helps you!

You don’t have to suffer from Plantar Fasciitis. Consider these products to help you get back on your feet again – without pain!

Also posted in Alegria Shoes, Aravon Shoes, Arch Support, Comfort Shoes, Dansko, Dr. Andrew Weil, Footwear etc., MBT Shoes, Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, Naot Shoes, Orthaheel, Orthotics, Pedag, Sano Shoes, Shoes, Skechers Shape Ups, Strassburg Sock, 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, Mary-Janes, Men's Shoes, 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., Mary-Janes, MBT Shoes, Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fit Flops: Not Just “Thong-style” Shoes anymore!

Written on December 29, 2010 — 2 Comments Leave a comment

FitFlops are great toning shoes. And until just recently, the styles were pretty much limited to “thong-style.” Wonderful for warm weather, a little more challenging to use during cool, damp months. Fortunately, FitFlops are now available in a variety of styles that you can enjoy year-round!

The Supertone is FitFlop’s foray into the sneaker market. And you don’t have to advertise that they are “toning” shoes; FitFlop has specifically designed this shoe to utilize its patented Microwobbleboard technology yet not look like a toning shoe. The upper is available in Pewter, White or Black leather, and looks great with all sorts of casual attire. It’s perfect if you don’t want to look like you’re wearing a toning shoe!

Boots are also a welcome addition to FitFlop’s catalog of models. The Mukluk, as indicated by its name, combines the Microwobbleboard technology with a comfortable, warm, sheepskin upper. Here’s your go-to boot for cold weather! Available in Black or Smoke, the Mukluk will keep your feet toned and toasty all winter long.  And for sufferers of Plantar Fasciitis, finally here’s a warm boot that won’t hurt your feet!

Another great looking boot is the Superboot Short. These leather, pull-on boots are very stylish and work well with skirts or jeans. The soft, flexible fit will keep your feet and ankles comfortable while you walk, and the midsole will keep you toned! Choose Chocolate or Black leather for all your wardrobe needs!

So keep FitFlops in mind when you choose shoes during the winter. Be stylish and warm as you tone!

Also posted in Boots, Comfort Shoes, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Shoes, Thongs | Tagged , , , , , ,

Arch Support for your Favorite Sheepskin Boots from Superfeet!

Written on November 16, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Lots of boots are great for the cold weather, but do little to support your feet. And for those of us with “tempermental” feet, that can be uncomfortable after a while. I am absolutely delighted to see that Superfeet has come out with the Wooly White Unisex Insole. Finally, an insole that is supportive AND warm!

The Superfeet Wooly White Insole can fit into your favorite sheepskin boots, or even rain boots or other casual footwear in which you might want a little extra warmth. The great part of this insole is that it truly provides support for your feet. Ordinarily with many sheepskin boots, the insole can flatten out over time, and your feet will feel like you’re walking on an uncomfortably hard surface. Not so with the Wooly White. As with all Superfeet insoles, you can feel the difference in the heel cup and arch area. The extra support can help alleviate pain from plantar fasciitis, and assist those with overpronation issues. They can also help you keep your body in proper alignment, and therefore reduce stress on muscles and ligaments. A warm and fuzzy insole that’s good for your feet?! What’s not to love?

Covered with 90% Merino Wool, the Superfeet Wooly White Insoles will help keep your feet warm, dry, and supported. What a great gift you can give this holiday season, whether you’re giving new boots or not!

Also posted in Arch Support, Boots, Comfort Shoes, Footwear etc., Insoles, Men's Shoes, Shoes, Superfeet Insoles, UGG Australia, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , ,

Fit Flops – Not Your Everyday Flip Flops!

Written on October 28, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I don’t know about you, but I like to wear flip flops year round. There’s nothing better during warm weather, and they’re so easy to slip on when the weather is cool and you just want to run out to get the newspaper. But I hate flip flops that have no support, and fall apart easily. My feet were so happy when I discovered FitFlops; they are everything I love in flip flops.

Let’s face it, most flip flops are boring. But FitFlops are anything but boring! Where else can you get shoes like this with interesting metallic leathers, or patent leather, or even suede? There’s a style for every look in your closet! And you don’t sacrifice comfort for style. In fact, you may want to stay in them all day long!

Thanks to its Microwobbleboard technology, FitFlops create muscle toning properties while also providing outstanding support. They actually increase the amount of time that your muscles are engaged as you walk, and therefore allow your muscles to get a better workout than in conventional shoes. They also absorb shock, and can help reduce foot pain and pressure from plantar fasciitis. You can feel the arch support, which I really love. And they’re fun to wear!

The FitFlop Walkstar 3 in Bronze is a particular favorite of mine. Who knew that there could be dressy flip flops that provide toning properties? I love that you can have dressier attire and still have flip flops to go with your outfit! Perfect for a night on the town. Another favorite is the Oasis in Chocolate – the suede is soft and feels great on my feet. These are wonderful all-around flip flops, great for any occasion or attire.

Don’t sacrifice comfort and potential toning properties just for the ease of a flip flop. Check out the great styles and colors of FitFlops. You’ll never purchase a pair of no-support flip flops again!

Also posted in Arch Support, Comfort Shoes, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Muscle Toning Shoes, Sandals, Shoes, Thongs, 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, Mary-Janes, Muscle Toning Shoes, New Balance Shoes, 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., Mary-Janes, Shoes, 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.