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Category Archives: Thongs

Feel Good About Your Choices with Vegan Shoes!

Written on September 5, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Animal products do not always have to be part of your shoes. For some folks, having vegan shoes is important to them. But what’s a “vegan” shoe? It’s a shoe made with all man-made materials; no animal products of any kind are used in the manufacturing of the shoe at all. The comfort properties of leather shoes (softness, breathability) are indisputable, but is it possible to have these properties in a vegan shoe? Absolutely!

Do vegan shoes look like they’re made for hippies? Absolutely not! In fact, Footwear etc. carries over 100 styles of vegan shoes in assorted brands, both for athletic wear and casual wear. Your choices aren’t limited in this genre of shoes at all! They’re available for both men and women, depending on the model. Here are a few examples of stylish and comfortable vegan shoes:

Dansko, known for its superior comfort and support, makes several models of vegan shoes. In its flagship Professional line, there are five different patterns you can choose from while obtaining that fabulous feeling of support. I love my Professionals; they are my shoe of choice if I know I need to be standing a lot during the day, or if my feet hurt in general. Somehow they always make my feet feel better. And the vegan models have happy-looking fabrics; I particularly like Vegan Blue Tapestry. I could wear that one with about 85% of my wardrobe! Other cute choices outside the Professional line are the Volley Vegan and the Veda Vegan – both of which have canvas uppers and are perfect for casual wear.

Interested in Barefoot Technology? These shoes emulate the feeling of walking without shoes, yet protect your feet from rough, hot asphalt, etc. Both the Vibram Fivefingers and the Merrell Barefoot Pace Glove models are made with all man-made materials and are washable, durable, and breathable for your comfort. These are fabulous shoes for running “barefoot.”

Birkis makes some terrific clogs that are perfect for wet, sloppy conditions. What I love best about them, however, is that they contain a cork and latex insole that molds to the shape of your foot. This is a great shock-absorbing shoe that you could wear all day long. And if the cork insole were to wear out after prolonged use, you can always pop it out and replace it, thus saving the price of an entirely new shoe. They’re economical AND eco-friendly!

Looking for a cute flip flop you can feel good about? Try the Olukai Amo. The water-resistant, synthetic leather straps are lined with jersey knit that dries quickly. The EVA footbed and midsole are anatomically-designed for superior comfort. The gum rubber outsole provides great traction as well. This is a great vegan shoe for anytime you want to wear a flip flop.

Don’t want to wear animal products? No problem – try out some of the many vegan shoes offered by Footwear etc. You can feel great about your choices without sacrificing style and comfort.

 

Also posted in Athletic Shoes, Barefoot Footwear, Birki, Clogs, Comfort Shoes, Dansko, Footwear etc., Men's Shoes, Merrell Barefoot Shoes, OluKai Footwear, Sandals, Shoes, Vegan Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , ,

FitFlops: The Choice of Travelers Worldwide!

Written on July 25, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Just got back from my first-ever trip to Europe, and among all the amazing sights, I noticed what people were wearing. Much to my surprise, the overwhelming favorite in footwear that I noticed, was… FitFlops! I saw them in the UK, in Norway, in Copenhagen, and even Estonia! I really shouldn’t have been surprised, FitFlops contain the perfect features for weary, traveler’s feet.

The patented Microwobbleboard technology allows you to work muscles you don’t usually use in conventional shoes, but still give some stability. You get the benefits of rocker sole technology, but the back part of the shoe does provide a stable platform. As a result, as you walk, you’ll be working out those leg and gluteal muscles! And being flip flops, they are the perfect summer sandals. Need to do some serious sightseeing? FitFlops will keep your feet comfortable while giving you a workout as you walk. Need to just kick back this summer? FitFlops are casual, cool, and oh-so comfy!

I really like the Oasis, which is available in Black, Stone, and Chocolate suede. Very stylish, and they can go with any casual outfit! This style was one of the most popular ones I saw on my trip!

The Electra is also a terrific model, which you can wear with dressier clothes! Available in Black, Bronze, and Pewter, these shoes provide excellent versatility as well as all the wonderful features that FitFlops provide.

Road tested all over the world, FitFlops are fantastic shoes for your active vacation, or for just kicking back at home.

Also posted in Arch Support, Comfort Shoes, FitFlops, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Muscle Toning Shoes, Sandals, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Flip Flops in any Color, for any Occasion!

Written on July 5, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Footwear etc. carries over 300 models/colors of flip flops. You could have a flip flop in your closet for each day of the week! You could have a flip flop for each color in your wardrobe. You could practically get a new flip flop each time your mood changes! There’s no shortage of comfortable flip flops in our catalog; here are a few that “called out” to me:

Want rocker sole technology in your flip flops? Check out the models by FitFlop. The Microwobbleboard technology activates muscles in your legs and helps you tone. FitFlops are also superior in shock absorption and help realign your body as you walk. The Walkstar 3 comes in neutral as well as fashion-forward colors and is a great addition to your wardrobe.

For a luxurious, cushioned feel, try the Clarks Latin Samba. It’s a flexible shoe that has extra cushioning and intake vents to help channel out warm, moist air to keep your feet cool. I also like it because it has a flower on the top – definitely a girly flip flop!

Think makes a beautiful flip flop suitable for dressy occasions. The Soso has really cute metallic accents, and a stylish 1 ½” heel. The cork/latex footbed is anatomically contoured for your comfort. You can feel the support and cushioning while you wear a fun-looking sandal.

Men have many choices in flip flops, including those from Olukai. The Ohana is a terrific casual flip flop with a comfortable nylon webbing toe post. The anatomical EVA insole provides support and feels great on your feet.

I also really like the Chaco Flip X Ecotread. This is a waterproof sandal that has a great arch support, and the outsole contains 25% recycled material. I feel so politically correct wearing these shoes! And they’re really cute!

The choices in flip flops are almost limitless, so check out what’s online at Footwear etc. and have fun!

Also posted in Arch Support, Chaco shoes, Clarks Shoes, Comfort Shoes, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, OluKai Footwear, Plantar Fasciitis, Sandals, Shoes, Think! Sandals, Waterproof Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Happy Colors to Brighten Your Mood!

Written on June 24, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

When I think of summertime, I think of great weather and bright colors. What better way to have fun in the sun than with some fun-colored shoes?

I love wedge sandals during the warm-weather months. Indigo by Clarks has an adorable shoe called the Long Pond, in burnt orange leather. The padded footbed provides long-lasting comfort, the cork-wrapped wedge is very fashion-forward, and the outsole gives you great traction and durability. This is a fantastic shoe for a night out on the town!

Aravon has really cute slide with a leaf pattern on the upper, called the Petra. Available in green patent leather, it’s a comfy, stylish summer shoe. This versatile slide is casual enough to wear to the beach, but dressy enough to wear to work. The cushioning in the forefoot makes for a shoe that you can wear all day long.

Orthaheel makes a lot of flip flops in a rainbow of colors. I particularly like the Orthaheel Tide in Plumberry Polyurethane. It’s an amazingly supportive and stable flip flop, and the beautiful purple color is bound to boost your mood! The podiatrist-designed footbed is so comfortable you’ll want to wear them for any occasion!

Need a really dressy shoe with a fun pattern? Check out the Beautifeel Alba in Leopard Suede/patent leather. Leave it to Beautifeel to find a way to combine exceptional quality and comfort with a fun yet elegant print. This is the perfect dressy shoe that can transition from work to an evening out.

My absolute favorite colorful shoe is the Think! Women’s 82337-9 Black Combi flip flop. The variety of primary colors always puts a smile on my face. The anatomical footbed provides superior support and comfort, with exceptional stability. This is a fantastic summer shoe, and who could be grumpy looking at this fun model?

Check out the bright colors and happy patterns available at Footwear etc. You can have your fun in the sun with exciting shoes!

Also posted in Aravon Shoes, Arch Support, BeautiFeel Shoes, Comfort Shoes, Drew Shoes, Flip-Flops, Footwear etc., Indigo by Clarks, Orthaheel, Sandals, Shoes, Think! Sandals, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , ,

More Sandals to Expand Your Collection!

Written on April 25, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Summer is approaching, and you can never have too many sandals, can you? I need casual sandals, dressy sandals, rugged sandals, in all sorts of colors and styles. A sandal for every mood? Why not? Check out these new models from Olukai, Dr. Andrew Weil, and Chaco!

The Olukai Kukuna is one of those exceptional shoes that you can easily wear for both everyday purposes and for a night on the town. I love the pattern on the leather straps! Those straps are also soft and comfortable since they’ve been oiled, tumbled, and distressed. The anatomical compression-molded EVA midsole provides comfort as you go about your activities. I’m looking forward to taking these to work and then out to dinner!

Olukai has also come out with the Men’s Kono, a spiffy slide for casual wear. The hand-sewn leather or nubuck upper has decorative stitching for visual interest. As with all Olukai shoes, the anatomical, compression molded EVA footbed provides great support. Added bonuses are the removable and washable PU sockliner, and the anti-microbial/anti-odor treatment applied to the microfiber suede lining and footbed cover. This is a great all-around slide for men.

Dr. Andrew Weil has a women’s flip flop called the Restore, which I love because it’s girly! You get phenomenal support benefits from all of Dr. Andrew Weil sandals, and now you can also get stylish and feminine styles! Dr. Andrew Weil sandals are recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association and feature a motion controlling footbed, recycled slip-resistant outsole, and orthopedic footbed. These cute flip flops blow the stereotype of what people think orthopedic shoes should look like. You get far more support and comfort from these than you would from many other flip flops. And they’re available in a bunch of colors! The men’s version of the Restore has all of the supportive features of the women’s version, in a more masculine style.

Chaco has also come out with some great sandals, with Vibram outsoles! The Z1 (for men and women) and Z2 (for women) with the Yampa outsole is a fun sandal you can use for all sorts of outdoor activities! They’re slip resistant, and the platform sole helps you keep your body in proper alignment and provides excellent arch support. It’s the perfect shoe for water sports, or for going to the beach, or …you get the idea!

Don’t wait to expand your Sandal collection; Olukai, Dr. Andrew Weil and Chaco have a lot of fantastic models to choose from so you can have a different model for every occasion!

Also posted in Arch Support, Athletic Shoes, Chaco shoes, Comfort Shoes, Dr. Andrew Weil, Dress Shoes, Flip-Flops, Men's Shoes, OluKai Footwear, Sandals, Shoes, Waterproof Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , ,

Do Your Shoes Reflect Your Sense of Humor?

Written on February 15, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

I don’t know about you, but I like my shoes to reflect my mood. I also like them to show that I’m not stuffy and like to have fun. Yes, this IS possible, you just have to choose the right shoe! Here are a few brands Footwear etc. carries that add some whimsy, lightheartedness and comfort to your wardrobe:

Think! shoes are particularly appealing if you want a unique style. They’re made with vegetable-tanned leathers and are hypoallergenic, toxin-free, and absorb moisture well. Think! shoes are very fashion forward, yet don’t skimp on style and fun. I particularly like the Think! 82337-9 in Black Kombi Leather. Not only is it colorful and happy-looking, its leather-lined cork footbed provides excellent shock absorption and helps reduce foot fatigue. It’s also a terrific shoe in terms of arch and heel support, and the durable outsole provides very good traction. What a fun, summery shoe!

You can really feel good about using El Naturalista products. The outsoles are made from recycled rubber, the footbeds are made from recycled polyurethane, and the leather is tanned in an all-natural process with vegetable extracts, tree bark and river stones. The Iggdrasil is an especially fun model. I love the whimsical stitching detail on the toe box! El Naturalista says that it makes shoes for people who embrace life as they walk, and you can really show off your personal style with this shoe. This shoe is available in black, Tibet (reddish color), and brown leather. It’s another happy shoe to wear on those happy days!

Show your sense of humor with some fun shoes, like those from Think! and El Naturalista. Wearing these is a great way to be comfortable, but not too serious!

Also posted in Comfort Shoes, El Naturalista Shoes, Footwear etc., Sandals, Shoes, Think! Sandals, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , ,

Keeping Your Body Realigned with Orthaheel/Dr. Andrew Weil Shoes

Written on February 10, 2011 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

As I took my car in for a realignment recently, I realized that keeping our bodies realigned isn’t something we tend to pay attention to until there’s a problem! Why we are so attuned to the stuff around us rather than our own well being will forever be a mystery to me, but I digress….so many of us have pain caused by basic alignment issues. As we compensate for biomechanical problems, we can end up with all sorts of join pain in our feet, knees, ankles, etc. All too often we wear shoes that we think look great but don’t actually provide the support and alignment we really need to be healthy. That’s where Orthaheel and Dr. Andrew Weil shoes save the day!

The premise of these shoes is to ensure that your feet are properly supported so that they can function optimally. Orthaheel and Dr. Andrew Weil shoes are designed with orthotic properties to help reduce pronation, stabilize the heel, absorb shock, and reduce stress on the joints.

Orthaheel makes a bunch of models in a variety of styles that are truly kind to your feet. Dr. Andrew Weil, an internationally-recognized pioneer in the health and wellness field, endorses Orthaheel products and actually came up with his own line of Orthaheel-made shoes as well.

Within the Orthaheel and Dr. Andrew Weil lines, there are so many different styles to choose from, you can definitely find a comfortable shoe for every situation. I do have to say that the flip flops are absolutely THE most comfortable I have ever worn. They have all the perks of traditional flip flops, with outstanding support. I could walk for hours in them! And you can even get slippers with all that support. Phenomenal!

I also really love the Orthaheel walkers. They’ve got full-grain leather uppers, with mesh to allow breathability. They offer all of the fabulous properties of Orthaheel shoes, and even have a mid-foot stabilizer to control the motion of your feet as you walk. The removable orthotic even has an antibacterial top cloth to help control foot odor! These shoes make walking easy!

Help keep your body aligned properly with Orthaheel and Dr. Andrew Weil shoes. You’ll really feel the difference!

Also posted in Arch Support, Comfort Shoes, Dr. Andrew Weil, Footwear etc., Men's Shoes, Orthaheel, Orthotics, 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., Plantar Fasciitis, 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, Plantar Fasciitis, Sandals, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , , , , , ,

Dr. Weil recommends: Orthaheel flip flops, slides, and sandals!

Written on April 6, 2010 — Leave a Comment Leave a comment

Now that winter is finally over, isn’t it fantastic to go out and enjoy the warm weather and give our feet a chance to breathe? No more confining winter shoes; it’s time to break out the flip flops and sandals! But do you have to wear flip flops or sandals with no support in order to be stylish? Absolutely not! Check out our new Orthaheel products!

 Orthaheel Seaside SlideDesigned by podiatrists and recommended by Dr. Andrew Weil on the Oprah show, Orthaheel flip flops, slides and sandals contain a built-in orthotic profile. The beauty of this is that they restore the natural alignment of your feet, which improves hip alignment and knee function. Orthaheels also reduce excess pronation – which can lead to flat feet. The deep heel cup provides Who wants to be in pain when you just want to dash out to the grocery store or go to the beach? I love the fact that they take literally 2 seconds to put on (the benefit of flip flops!) yet provide the comfort and style that I require! (And don’t we all require and deserve that?)

 Orthaheel Tide SandalWith their flexible soles yet outstanding support, they are not only great for your feet and joints, they look great too! From casual styles like the Tide (available in fun colors like green, pink, and denim) to more dressy styles like the Seaside (available in Brown or Black Croc Leather), there’s a flip flop or sandal for all kinds of occasions. I’m excited to see sandals that I can wear on weekends or after work, but I think I really love the Seaside in Black Croc Leather because it’s perfect for a night out on the town! And men shouldn’t feel left out of the equation; the Ryder and the Kinetic are great options for them.

 Orthaheels are endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), but you don’t sacrifice style for comfort. I have tried the flip flops, and they are light years more comfortable than any other flip flop I’ve ever owned. There are lots of new styles due out in April and are available for pre-order, so be sure to take a look! And don’t forget that there’s a 30-day money back guarantee, even if you have worn them outside! If Dr. Weil thinks they’re good enough for Oprah, aren’t they good enough for you?

Also posted in Arch Support, Celebrity Shoes, Comfort Shoes, Flip-Flops, Men's Shoes, Muscle Toning Shoes, Orthaheel, Plantar Fasciitis, Sandals, Shoes, Women's Shoes | Tagged , , , , ,
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