Friday Findings and Feet
I finally saw a physical therapist about my shin pain and it turns out I don’t have what is technically referred to as shin splints. I have Tibialis anterior tendinopathy which is an inflammation of the anterior tibialis tendon. It’s from overuse in lousy shoes, just like shin splints would be but I don’t have the microscopic bone injury that shin splints have. I guess this is preferable but it still hurts a lot so shoes are top of mind for me.
Shoes and sandals that require me to grip my toes while walking are out of the question, for now, so I hobbled down to Nordstrom and bought these sandals. They have a cushioned insole and since they buckle on, are much better than any other sandal I brought. I have lots of comfortable, supportive sandals…just not with me. These aren’t something I’ll wear with a knee-length dress or skirt, but probably under a maxi dress.
I’m sort of crazy about how comfy my new Tulip shoes are. I’ve eyed them for years but always thought they were sort of goofy looking. Well, in the hunt for comfy shoes, goofy takes on a whole new meaning and I now choose to see these as creative. I love the colors this Flex style comes in and think the raspberry or fuschia will be perfect for fall. They come in 6 colors. I was told to size up, then warned they stretch so I bought ones that fit but are not loose. How fun are these leopard print ones?
MORE TULIPS
On the hunt for comfy shoes, I came across this company which has amazing reviews! Their shoes are light and airy, machine washable, and made with Eucalyptus Tree which is a renewable resource. This is the Tree Runner style which comes in 12 color combinations and is their everyday sneaker. They also make a boat shoe style here.
I will be hunting down more comfortable shoes going forward. This injury isn’t permanent, but it reminds me that my body isn’t nearly as resilient as it once was.
What sneakers do you like?
I have awful feet but I’m kind of a fitness person, so I also swear by Asics for working out. I do barre, HIIT classes, rowing, and circuit training, and I walk two crazy dogs daily, and the Asics provide good support for all. I read this post last week and was wandering Marshalls and found a pair of the Tulip shoes there (in my size!) for only $33! Snapped them up, love the feel, and the look is growing on me. FYI, Sierra Trading Post also has them at reasonable pricing. Not sure if I’m allow to post those stores here, so if not, edit away! Thanks for your blog; I enjoy your content!
Thank you
For walking, I’ve discovered that the Asics brand works best for me. I can walk many miles in them in complete comfort. I have one pair for the treadmill and a second pair for outdoors. They’re not cheap, but since I want to do lots of walking, the expense is well worth it.
Good, supportive shoes are worth the price
Y’all have to look up the angry orthopod calf stretches. He explains everything about all these feet problems, there is an anatomical reason related to what else- aging!! His stretches have saved me. I have been doing these for past four years. Takes nine minutes a day.
In the past, I could walk about 3 miles before burning and pain started. Now, I can (and have) walked allll day.
I still have to be careful with shoes. Naot, Altra, New Balance are great for me.
I will check him out! Thanks, Nancy
Sketchers are probably the most comfortable casual shoes for me. My running shoes are UnderArmour and I’m so impressed with them, good support and very comfortable.
Clark’s are probably my first choice for dressier shoes. It definitely seems that the older I get the more important comfortable and supportive footwear is
I have orthotics made by a podiatrist. Can’t be without them in my exercise/walking shoe. For summer I swear by Mephisto sandals..they have awesome arch support. And very stylish. I volunteer at a hospital charity shop and on my feet all day in Mephisto. I have had cortisone shots in my foot for Morton’s neuroma, believe it or not no pain from the needle due to an amazing tool the podiatrist has.
My podiatrist also recommended a sturdy sole that doesn’t bend in half., and of course orthotics. I exercise a lot, I use superfeet insoles in my Nike sneakers and dance shoes. I have had luck with Abeo, Clark’s, Ecco,Naot., Munro. I can’t wear Dansko, or any rubber based insoles, I am allergic to rubber, so some brands like AGL, and Aquaitalia, etc, had to be returned, too bad, they are well made shoes. If I walk flat Abeo clog type shoes are all day comfortable. If I walk stairs or hills in Europe, they didn’t work well, you need a bit more flexibility on those surfaces. European brands make sturdy brands because of cobblestone.
The current shoe styles with a long top aren’t good for my feet. When the top of the shoe hits my ankle, I clump around like I am wearing clown shoes and end up with tired muscles in both feet and shins. For me, being in style now also means my face doesn’t reflect suffering feet. I am heading toward shoes I can be graceful in…Trotters, Munro, and SAS.
I agree about sore feet and our faces:) It’s just not worth suffering
I’ve had several foot surgeries and bouts of plantar fasciitis in both feel. No flat shoes and no flip flops that cause gripping with the toes. For tennis shoes, I swear by ASICS, but DO get the mid range or above. The retail on the better ones is around $100 and up. The $39 ones are ok, but not nearly good enough. I also recommend sleeping in night splints when your fasciitis is flaring. Arch supports in as many shoes you wear as possible.
I have a dropped foot thanks to a spinal injury so have real trouble with shoes. I find Skechers, Ecco and Birkenstock Mayari style to be the best. I can’t wear any sort of mule or flip flop as I just kick them into the air. Very flat shoes are no good as they affect my hip and back. We also have a brand called Ziera here in NZ which are excellent and they offer a good online service. Hope you get better soon.
I had to laugh at your description of “I just kick them into the air.” Exactly what happens to me also. I didn’t have surgery but I had a serious infection in my lower back that resulted in neuropathy in one foot. I miss wearing slides. But, I’m also very thankful I’m still alive and able to walk. Thank you for the chuckle!
That sounds very scary. I’m sorry to hear about your neuropathy. I have some in my left foot and it’s so uncomfortable.
Brooks shoes for walking, Vionics for dress. I switch my Good Feet supports to my booties and dress boots and any other shoes I want to wear, even slippers. I still get plantar faciitis from time to time but not nearly like I used to!
Jennifer,
I, too, have been dealing with foot issues for a long time. I’ve had bunion surgery on one foot, and have had bouts of plantar fasciitis through the years. Finding “comfort” shoes is a challenge for my size 10 feet, often looking so clunky that I feel frumpy and unstylish. I’m a walker and after seeing a podiatrist for my last bout of p f, he recommended Brooks and Hoka for walking shoes. I also had custom orthotics made, (expensive) which I use in all my athletic shoes, but I have had some luck with over the counter orthotics, Protalus (onlne) and Dr. Scholl’s for other shoes. With sandals and other casual shoes, I’ve had good luck with Joseph Seibel, Ecco, Clarks, Naturalizer, and Naot, but the most comfortable around the house flip flops are OOFOS, available on Amazon or from Zappos. And thank goodness for Zappos free shipping, allowing me to order several pairs of shoes to try on, and sending back the ones that don’t fit! I so appreciate you for addressing this issue and any recommendations you offer…thank you!
If our feet aren’t happy the rest of our bodies suffer! I have found that if I wear my custom orthotics in my sneakers I have pretty good !luck. Gave up flip flops and anything between my toes years ago. Caused a Morton’s neuroma between my toes also planters fasciitis. You just have to find new ways to look cute.
As someone who has had foot problems and eventually surgery on both feet, my orthopedist has told me never to wear a shoe/sandal that is perfectly flat or very flexible….you must have soles that are thicker and have a structured arch, or you will continue to have issues and foot pain.
Mine too. Also said the shoe needs to have structure – so no Allbirds or things with mesh tops….
My podiatrist likes sandals (and shoes) where you cannot bend the soles completely in half. For comfort for me, nothing beats Clark’s. For sneakers, New Balance (from a running store, not a discount store … they are not the same, nor are Clark’s from there) or Brooks. Ecco makes great shoes, but I find they vary in size so I have to try them in store. When looking for sneakers, get fitted at a running store. You will be absolutely amazed at how well they can get you fitted for a shoe that is comfortable and supportive. They even look at your gait and how you position your foot as you stride.
Thank you, Jennifer, for publishing this topic and for being up front with your readers about foot problems. As a very active early 60s woman, I have been reduced to a hobbling specimen this summer due to plantar fasciitis. Naot and Hartjes sandals are saving me, to a degree, but I am seeking further medical help to improve this situation. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Seek out a good physical therapist. The one I met with here is more knowledgeable than many foot doctors I have seen at home in the US. If you are in the Vancouver area, I can send you his contact info
Thank you Jennifer, but I live outside Toronto, Ontario.
I walk a lot for exercise. I have planter fasciitis in one foot and morton’s neuroma in the other. It took me two years to find shoes to walk in comfortably. Ascics Nimbus 22 are what is working for me. I’m buying another pair soon before they’re fased out.
Now I’m looking for booties with arch support for fall.
I’ll let you know what I find for booties and I hope you will keep us posted on what you find too.
Vionics makes booties with arch support and they also make slim fit insoles that I use in booties that don’t have arch support. You may need to size up a half size to get them in, but they have been a life saver for me.
I have plantar fasciitis and do very well with Asics tennis shoes, Ecco soft 7 sneakers and Taos and Ecco sandals. Also wore Dansko clogs when I was working. All of these keep my foot issues at bay.
Thanks, Linda. I used to wear Dansko when I worked on my feet all day and they really saved my feet and back
Jennifer – I have had excellent comfort/performance with Dansko’s Reece sandal. I just purchased my 4th color. Check them out.
I have been suffering in pain for months and I have not received a diagnosis. How were you diagnosed? I think I have the same.
A very smart physical therapist, then I did a lot of reading online to confirm for myself
So glad you are posting about finding comfortable shoes. For everyday I like Clark’s, Skechers and Revere sandals. They are very comfortable. However, I do need to find comfortable evening shoes! Any ideas?
Not yet but I will keep you posted. I do know Beautifeel makes lovely ones. I use to have several pairs.
I hope the Allbirds work for you. I love the look of them, and really wanted to support their company. After wearing them for a day and literally limping home, I have given up on them. I have never had that kind of pain from a shoe before. My go tos are Hoka and SAS…haven’t gone wrong with these yet!
Oh no. We all have such different feet.I will look into Hoka
My running shoes are Hoka! The running store had equipment and expertise to scan my foot, watch my stride, and recommend those. I’ve been running and walking in them for two summers. I too have plantar fasciitis and arthritis, but these are my miracle workout shoes.
If you are still in Vancouver BC there are a couple of very popular women’s sports stores with some expertise in helping to source appropriate shoes. I am planning to visit them in the near future. I have learned that walking in shoes that are not suited to my gait and walking style contribute to lots of leg and foot issues. Age may be a contributing factor too:-)
I am still here. Which stores do you recommend?
I just purchased a pair of Munro slip on sandals. I had purchased a pair of strappy sandals from Munros years ago and I was able to wear them all day without any discomfort! These new ones I feel will be the same. We are going to Hawaii and will do a lot of walking so I think these will be great. I have had shin splints before and was told it was from not stretching before speed walking. Rested up a couple weeks and they were gone. I’ve also had two great toe joint replacements (just like knee replacements except for big toes) and because of those surgeries I ended up with ruptured plantar plates. So my feet aren’t in the best shape. These Munros are worth it. They may be a little expensive but your feet are worth it!
I love my Munro booties and I have one pair of sandals. They are sooo comfy. I totally agree, our feet are worth it.
I am a huge fan of FitFlop, and have been wearing their sandals, sneakers and loafers for years. They use biomechanics in the engineering of their footwear, and so comfort is first and foremost. I have hip and knee issues and I can walk all day in their shoes with no pain. My husband and sister-in-law both have plantar fasciitis and have become converts to this brand.
I will try them. Thanks, Roberta. I wonder if I could get my husband to wear them too. He has knee issues.
Love my airbirds.
I have narrow feet and in my area of Canada next to no stores carry narrow sizes. I have found for sandals they must have adjustable buckles of strong elastic straps. For running or hiking shoes the lacing has to start very close to the toes. I look for these features before even trying on a pair of shoes. Along with brands mentioned I have found some cute, comfortable sandals with these features in the Remonte and earth brands, less clunky than most buckle sandals.
Narrow feet can be a problem as can wide ones. I haven’t heard of Remonte…thanks for the recommendation
What I have found extremely helpful with my feet issues are custom orthotics for my tennis shoes. They really have been a game changer for me. Unfortunately they can’t be used in sandals so I have become pretty selective about the brands and styles of shoes I wear now. I have had success with Birkenstocks and Taos. I also have a couple of pair of Vionic shoes that I like. We have tile floors in our house and my podiatrist has told me not to walk barefoot in our house anymore. He recommended Oofos. I had never heard of them, but I thought I’d give them a try and that’s all I wear in the house now. My husband is even wearing them! I’m always on the lookout for comfortable shoe brands. Will definitely check out some of the ones mentioned in this post.
Hope you have a speedy recovery Jennifer! Always enjoy reading your posts.
I’m going to need better things to wear at home now too. I’ve never heard of Oofos either. I’ll google them. Thanks so much
Thanks for covering this important topic. I have had surgery on one foot for arthritis, but still love walking for exercise and travel. Highly recommend Naot casual and dressy sandals. Have been wearing them for years. Very comfortable.
For serious walking I recommend Oboz or Salewa. I switched from New Balance to these brands for walking shoes after surgery and they have worked wonderfully!
Best wishes for your recovery!
Thanks for sharing those brands with us, Colleen. I’ll check them out. I did buy a pair of Naot today and am excited to see how they work for me
Clarks, some Skechers that aren’t too wide, Birkenstocks in the narrow width and my trusty athletic shoes that I used to wear to the gym are my favorite shoes for walking around. Some of the hiking shoes that look like sneakers are also good and much cuter than what used to be available. They all wear out eventually, even if they still look good on the outside. This usually happens on vacation. 😉
I love my Ilse Jacobsen shoes. I don’t even have to wear my arch supports with them. Hope your feet and calves feel better soon. We never realize how much we rely on “healthy” and painless feet.
So true!! I took my feet for granted
I am sorry about your health issues. I wear and orthotic and also like Hoka recovery tennis shoes and ABEO from the walking company. But heels are no longer an option. I will be eager to see you future fashion choices since so much is driven by foot fashion.
Indeed. My fashion choices are driven by footwear, too. I can no longer wear heels (back issues) need wide width (bunions) and a supportive footbed (most ballet flats and loafers don’t) And then a couple of years ago I had pain in the balls of my feet. Couldn’t wear my Birkenstocks or Dansko’s, Hoka sneakers were my salvation. And eventually I found ABEO – they have specific insoles for specific foot issues. I get so frustrated with my limited choices. I’ve learned some new brands that I will check in to.
I think we have all learned some new brands here and I am so very grateful for my readers sharing here
I wear Brooks athletic shoes and Naots for casual wear.
I also like my Brooks for athletic endeavors! Great arch support and can walk miles in them without discomfort or after pains. Naot has cute styling and are comfy but most are either too wide or too narrow for my feet 🙁
I have very wide feet and as I’ve gotten older I realize how important good -fitting shoes are. Anything too tight or narrow is out of the question. Also, I have to spend the extra money for quality — which to me is worth every penny.
I’ve had luck with Aravon, Clarks, Cobb Hill, and Skechers. I discovered Spenco Orthotic sandals this summer and am very pleased with them as well. I’m shopping for new walking shoes and I’m going to spend the extra dollars to get a proper sizing.
Comfortable shoes are worth the price
Taos hands down are my favorite sneakers! They have several styles and colors. I can wear them all day and my feet feel great. I also have a couple pairs of their sandals and a bootie they no longer make. My feet are beat up from running long distance races so I can’t compromise on shoes. I can wear a couple of pairs of cute sandals if I’m going to dinner and home.
I wish you a healthy recovery!
Thank you so much
Wow, great post , I appreciate all the comments and will check some out. My daughter just moved from NYC, and I found Eneslows shoe store to be the biggest store of comfortable shoes. They have the serious orthpedic brands, but had tons of European brands that are actually made for walking .. a wonderful selection. Many brands I have never heard of, and nice to be able to try on so many types. If you are in NYC, I would recommend checking out. I bought shoes that I could wear all day walking in NYC. Which is my highest level of comfort rating 😉
The other big thing that helped was to stop walking barefoot in my house..
I appreciate the “real” posting. I get frustrated by “mature ” fashion bloggers who post only themselves in shoes that have no support. I wonder, do they really walk around all day in those shoes/sandals? How do they still have fat pads on their feet? Do they take the shot and then put on comfy shoes to do their real life?
I am now on the hunt for supportive, cushioned slippers or house shoes. I spend so much time at home, I need the right shoes. I wonder about other bloggers’ shoe choices too. It makes the outfit look fab but their feet must be in much better shape than mine.
Hotters out of England have very comfortable shoes that hold up well. They also have excellent sales and prompt delivery. They are my go to brand and I love their boots.
I agree 100%!
After foot surgeries these are the real deal!
Correction on my spelling of plantar instead of planter. Oops!
I have several pairs and styles of Allbirds. They are the most wonderful shoes for travel and walking. I don’t wear them with dresses or skirts but they’re perfect with jeans, shorts or casual pants and come in many colors. I highly recommend!
I have several pairs of Allbirds also and have been very pleased. With the removable insoles they accommodate my custom orthotics, a blessing!
I have a narrow foot. The shoes that fit the best for me are Skechers, Clark’s, B.O.C., and New Balance. I however, like Grasshoppers. These work well for my feet and provide a good arch for my planters fasciitis flare ups.
Good luck with you injury now that you have some very cute, new shoes. Hope you will be well soon.
My Clarks are very comfy and I love New Balance too! Thanks Lin
I have rheumatoid arthritis and have had surgery on both feet. I’ve tried most every brand and wear many, but, by far, Naot (for both casual and dressy sandals), is my favorite, plus they are cute and fashionable.
For casual only Ecco Yucatán’s offer terrific comfort and support. I even have a pair I use only for indoors since I can’t walk barefoot on floors anymore.
For exercise walking tennis shoes, New Balance 840 were the ones recommended by my podiatrist and rheumatologist.
Good luck healing your injury.
Thanks for these recommendations, Jan
I wear Alegria shoes. They have a lot of support and their TRAQ sneakers are the most comfortable thing I have ever put on my feet. Also Clark’s are great as well.
At this point in my life comfortable shoes are a must. I wear Brooks sneakers, but I’ve been considering the Hoka brand. They are not really attractive, but I’ve heard they are wonderful for walking. I have also had great luck with Naot or Birkenstock sandals as well as the Ecco and OluKai slip on sneakers.
Thank you for all the information you give us!
Thank you for sharing your resources and experience with us
I have tendon and arthritis issues in my left foot and I’ve had issues for years. If I don’t wear the right shoes, look out!
I absolutely love BZees brand sandals!! Also some of the ones mentioned already are great too. Vionic, Clark’s, some Skechers, ASICS and new balance for tennis shoes.
Vionic’s!!!!!!!! Great support
ASICS Nimbus for walking/exercise tennis shoe
I agree with others , shoes with good arch support are what will work for most feet , leg, back, and hip problems. The ladies have given some good suggestions. Shoes that are flat with no good arch support are not going to work for walking, just sitting .
Athletic shoes for lots of walking on concrete , etc. I wear cute sandals if I am going in somewhere to sit. There are comfort sandals out there that look good and feel good , just have to see what works. I hope you find good shoes that help your feet. Vionic, Clarks,Ecco, and others have some nice styles.
Those Ilse Jaacobsen tulip shoes are fantastic and getting more popular every season. They make a slightly different style that I prefer and it comes in so many colors: https://www.softsurroundings.com/p/chic-sneakers/40/?gclid=CjwKCAjwsNiIBhBdEiwAJK4khgOcpKH5f244LQKG-zj1LC0A0fpq8jZlQQlSbPvcBHV0T4w2Ya1OIRoCRIwQAvD_BwE
After successful bunion surgery in my 40’s, I realized I would always have sensitive feet and I would be buying comfort shoes. I went to one of those shoe stores that look like it’s all orthopedic – and their salespeople are trained to know which shoes work for your foot issues. I don’t mean places like The Walking Store – I mean those dusty looking shops in a strip mall. They told me what to look for in a shoe and brought me the right ones to try on. Wow. What a difference! I didn’t like the ones they brought and didn’t buy them, but I learned what to look for.
Rainsong Shoes in Mendocino and Healdsburg have an especially good collection of very fashionable looking comfort shoes – better than anywhere I’ve been to in Northern CA. I bought my first pair of Tulip Shoes there the first year they had them!
I agree, there’s a big difference in stores who really know their stuff about what are the best shoes for our unique feet
Chacos!
Ecco soft 7’s! I have them in four colors, but I wear the white leather pair more than any other shoe in my closet. I’m in my mid-sixties and still teach high school full time. It’s imperative that I have comfy footwear! Still, I’m very mindful that shoes can date a person or make an outfit, and I’m acutely aware that my 16-18 year old students are checking me out. And that’s part of how we connect, so it’s worth consideration. When my students compliment my footwear, I know I hit the mark on all counts! i wear Fryes, Eccos, Birkenstocks, Bussola, Uggs, some Everlanes, a Margaux pair I learned about from Jennifer. I rarely wear my Jack Rogers anymore. At home in addition to the above, I also wear Tevas, the occasional Danskos, Aetrex. I’m very careful about trying on footwear too, because not all styles work for me. My feet, legs, hips are very happy with my footwear!
I have been curious about the Everlane footwear.. It looks so comfy
Wow! What a fabulous forum for such useful information about our hard working feet.
I have just had jabs under both feet to relieve the searing pain of Morton’s Neuroma. Must send a letter to my podiatrist about the positive change. So relieved.
Love my Ilse Jacobsen Tulip shoes…have 4 pairs… they might run a tad small…but honestly, do stretch, so beware. Not suited for a long walk, as mentioned previously. A structured walking shoe is best for that.
I have short (7/37) wide feet with short toes so an ample foot box is very important .
So happy to see others enjoying my other favourites.
Clarks Cloud Steppers are a dream for summer , as are Vionics for a step in sneaker ( somewhat like a boater) with style.
Naot make an excellent ankle boot… light, amazing construction. Worth the price.
One caution…I tend to change my shoes throughout the day as my feet appreciate the difference in pressure points. Walking barefoot is a problem, except in my garden while watering. The lawn is so comforting.
Jennifer ,I feel your pain. Painful shins happen to me, for the same reason. Takes professional information, and patience… and good footwear!
Looks like you are doing all of those things.
I just bought a pair of Naot sandals today and eyed a few pairs of their boots. Very cute. I’m not overly patient so hopeful the right footwear will help
I don’t know how anyone can wear shoes or sandals without good arch supports and they’re hard to find. Vionic have great styles, Fitflops are great. Otherwise, it’s a desert out there. As we age, our feet require lots of TLC and an investment in quality.
Jennifer I hope the pain subsides. We need our legs and feet for everything we do so good shoes are most important. Another reader (Eve) pointed out that she buys shoes that fit from the start and she is so right. I don’t get it when people say they need to break them in. I read reviews for department store purchases and many women say ” a bit tight but they will stretch out”. That’s a NO for me.
Clarks served my problem feet well at the airport I worked at and most airline workers favored them. Sperry makes good arch support shoes too.
Your new shoe choices are not the old lady look. Take care.
I refuse to let me feet take a beating to stretch out a shoe
For years I was a big fan of Brooks sneakers but my daughter suggested I try Hoka brand sneaks which I had never heard of. So this time when I needed new sneaks I tried on both the Brooks & the Hoka’s-and I am so so glad I did! The cushioning in the Hoka is unbelievable! Yet it is still supportive. My feet and knees are so grateful!
My physical therapist suggested Hokas today, so I will be checking them out.
As a senior ballroom performance dancer, I’ve experienced a variety of foot “defuga;toes” over the last 20 years, so cushiony shoes are a must and most good manufacturers are getting the message. I just wish the ballroom shoe designers would too! I always order my dance shoes with a double padded sole but “foot abuse” happens. I’ve had good luck with Clarks for everyday shoes and sandals and New Balance for my walking shoes. With the right shoes, you won’t be thinking about your feet so much!
I do love many of the Clarks styles. Thanks, Kathleen. I love the idea of double padded insoles.
Like so many of you, I have multiple foot problems. And a ginormous shoe collection–many of which I can no longer wear but which I’ve held onto for stupid reasons (mostly because they were really expensive). It’s been on my to-do list to pull them all out, try them on or look them over and make some solid decisions. I appreciate all the recommendations of brands to investigate. A plaintive request to shoe companies: I wear a 5.5/35.5 (as measured with a Brannock device). I don’t understand why shoe ranges usually skip this size–they will be supplied as 5,6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, etc. (I know it’s true at the upper end, also, they skip 10.5). Allbirds has one style, its flat, that comes in a 5.5–for the other models, they recommend sizing up. That doesn’t work–I’ve tried both their 5 and 6, and neither fit. Vionic is the same for their shoes. For companies that pride themselves on fit, I find this baffling. I used to make shoes ‘fit’ with various bits of padding, but it’s not worth it to me any more. Instead, I wear a lot of Naot.
I totally agree that finding wuality comfortable shoes in small sizes is nearly impossible. I too wear size 5.5 ( in US sizes) and 35.5 in European sizes. A lot of site say a 5.5 equate to a 36. Not so. I walk straight out of the 36’s. Many brands just don’t make small sizes.!
So I wear Clarks sandals ( wedges in different heights) and New Balance 460’s. Hard to find, but the arch placement is perfect. For regular closed shoes I search for style first ( still!) but they have to be soft leather that will conform with mu bony feet. Does anybody else have the problem of a bone on the top of the foot that protrudes? It makes any loafer or espadrille type shoe ( with a high top part of the shoe) impossible to wear.)
I am a 9 1/2 and most brands don’t make it!!
I agree that many manufacturers do not make 9 1/2 because that’s my size. I have Vionic ballet flats I love and spent more than I wanted on a pair of their thongs when my plantar fasciitis was acting up….it was worth every penny. I also bought Vionic slippers which, though expensive, are better than a flat slipper. I like FitFlop but they also do not make 9 1/2. I have two pairs in size 9 and one fits better than the other; the size 10 is just too large. Good luck!
I wear FitFlop shoes a LOT. Love their sneakers! No, I don’t work for them or get any sort of kickback, but here are the current women’s sneakers they offer in the US: https://www.fitflop.com/us/en/shop/womens-sneakers-us
I didn’t know they made sneakers! Thanks, Barb.
I think those shoes are kind of cute. I always went for form over comfort but not anymore. I’m all about comfort now since I’ve been walking a lot. I’ve been happy with Asics and Nike lately. I have some Clarks sandals that I like too.
Ouch! Good luck on your healing journey. Have you ever heard of euroSoft by Sofft? I found a wonderful pair of sandals by this brand. I have a corn so I bought a wide in this brand and it was perfect. Another brand that seems super comfortable to me is SAS Tripad comfort. Good luck!
Those shoes are cute and cushy but are flat and still don’t have the arch support so many of us were recommending. Lots of good brands were recommended – give some a try! Lots of cute styles to choose from.
I usually don’t go by name or price when it comes to shoes. I try them on. I wear Keds and Sperry topsiders most of the time. Sometimes, just the addition of a new innersole can make an old shoe fit right again. I don’t believe in buying a shoe that isn’t comfortable right off the bat. Some do get a little looser over time and that’s where the innersole comes in. I pay attention to width in particular. If the width doesn’t feel right, they will always be uncomfortable. Cloud steppers by Clark’s is a great sandal. Cole Haan and UNI make great booties.
Cute offerings! Glad you got a good diagnosis and are on the mend. I am more focused on shoes that are comfortable. On the sneaker side, I got a pair of Vionic sneakers and love them. I also found a pair from Vince Camuto. I just got a pair from Cariuma; these have a cork footbed and are really fun. Allbirds are wonderful. I found a great pair of Mephisto sandals in the Nordstrom sale. Some Steve Madden sandals have good padding.
Thank you for such good information on good supportive and comfortable shoes. I was diagnosed with arthritis in my feet. This has been so helpful.
Oooh, that sounds painful! I am glad you are finding relief. As someone who has had foot problems, one thing you might want to ask the physical therapist or a podiatrist about any shoes you get going forward is whether or not you benefit from a flexible or an inflexible shoe. Some people do better in shoes with a very flexible sole, like the Tulip shoes. Others, like me, need a more supportive shoe with a relatively inflexible shoe, that doesn’t flex much when you twist it. It all depends on your foot and your issues, but it can make a big difference. Fortunately, these days it is possible to find a variety of shoes with good cushioning, especially sneakers, in both types. Best of luck!
You might try Aarvon sandals. I’m not crazy about the look on the closed toe. I need narrow width so that affects my choices.
Due to my knee replacement, I have spent the summer in my keds slip ons. I love the prints. I also have been wearing a Clarks mary jane that is suede with a perforated toe. Both have been great for therapy and walking.
Hi Jennifer, I love Vionic and Taos shoes for great support and comfort. I have multiple pairs of each brand. Bionics has multiple types of heels, if you want dressier shoes. These days I lean toward flats and very low heels.
Altra shoes for a great basic running shoe. They have a zero drop and wide enough to let my toes wiggle and accommodates my custom orthotics. These were recommended by my naturopath and foot doctor.
For sandals it Birkenstock’s or Vionics. This summer I found a Tory Birch sandal that has a support similar to my Birkenstock’s, what a great find!
Also, I found a great support group for Plantar Faciitis on Face Book. Many people raved about these stretches on YouTube by “Frank Ng”. I started the stretches and felt better within a couple of weeks. They totally saved my feet and overall well being!
Good luck!
I feel what you are going through. Several years ago I had heel pain. It was from too flat shoes. I have found Clarks unstructured are good. Not cheap. I even know to not go barefoot in the house. My daughter even got it from a weekend away wearing flip flops. She had to stay away from flat shoes for almost a year. Good luck. I like the sandals in the post I think they would go well with dresses.
I agree with those who have suggested Vionic. I have numerous foot issues and they are the only ones that have helped me. Their slippers are also great instead of bare feet. Hope you heal quickly.
Hi Susan, I have the Oldbirds, I mean Allbirds! Tree Runners and have found these to be thee best walking shoes for my 70 Y/O feet. They provide great support for my feet and no back pain either upper or lower after I walk up to two miles. I highly recommend these shoes.
Glad your feet and legs are feeling better! As a retired cosmetologist, standing on my feet for over 42 years, I have found Taos shoes the best for me. Arch support is the key. Your physical therapist is right about the toe grip being a bad thing, I had to have my big toe fused because of wear and tear by wearing sandles/flip flops that caused me to grip with my toes.
Take care of you, xoxo
Oh goodness, Peggy, that sounds so painful
I love my Allbirds…they have been washed, they dry quickly, they are lightweight, and have great support and no break-in period. I have 4 pairs. Also love the Ecco Soft 7 sneaker shoe, which I have in multiple colors… they have been a great shoe for travel. I only wear flip flops at the pool, as I hate the smacking sound on the heel as you walk. Hope your shin pain is gone soon!
I do love my Ecco Soft 7 sneakers too…why did I leave them at home?:)
Well, thanks for doing so much research for us, but since it is because of your injury, not so great. I have discovered the Vionic flip flops in pretty styles, and have replaced all the others. They just feel so flat now, and the arch support in the Vionic ones feels so natural. I have never been able to wear the slides, so that is out of the question anyway. Those tulip ones look like fun to wear with jeans, but I am still having a problem with finding feminine low heal shoes to wear with dresses and skirts. For me, I have never been a sneaker and skirt type of gal. Wishing you much comfort and wishes for a full recovery.
I’ve never been a sneaker gal either so I’ve got lots of work ahead of me and quite possibly a change of style.
Jennifer, Hello from one with a plethora of foot problems, most of them inherited from a Mom with truly bad feet…One comment above mentioned seeing a Pedorthist who will make a ‘mold’ of your feet: Don’t go the route of ‘foot specialists’ who have you stand on a digital machine (looks much like a weight scales) and make an insert based upon pressure points. No. That’s a big waste of $600 or more dollars. Good Pedorthist will make a ‘removable footbed’ to place in your shoes that footbeds to remove. Don’t fall for the ‘drop in’ Orthotics, either,another big waste…. To enable myself to keep walking and traveling (I am now 73 yrs.), I selected one mfgr. of shoe that had many, many styles with ‘removable footbeds’. For me, that was Israeli-made brand, ‘Naot’….You can go onto the online order company, Zappos, and view the line of Naots. If you ever tended to go barefoot around the house, stop that practice. I ruined what little health I had of my genetically-predisposed foot problem feet by wearing heels in my 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, by wearing high heels and by going barefoot. OH, also by wearing Dr.Scholl’s sandals with a WOODEN sole! For the last 15-18 years, I purchase Naots with removable footbed. Have the Pedorthist ‘re-make’ your custom insert about every 5-7 years, as with age, the configuration of the bottom of your foot changes… You have the capacity to ‘halt’ the progress of foot problems, but it means giving up bare feet, flip flops, and backless mules…Nothing in the world limits one more than painful foot problems which steal much joy of activities in the 65+ age category. Sorry this is so long but perhaps it could help others who are on the verge of serious foot disorder: plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, fallen arches, bunions, arthritis or osteoarthritis of the feet, and ‘diminishing fat pad on bottom of foot’, which occurs with aging. If this post is geared for the too drastic foot disordered woman, I won’t be hurt if you choose not to post it, but make a few notes as at this point in your life: your problems could be kept to a rather painful minimum.
Thank you for this information! It’s so helpful!
Totally agree with you. Vionics, Taos, Naots, and Berkinstocks are my go tos.
Naots are the best! As a retired teacher, I’ve been wearing them for years.
I just bought of pair of Naots today and am hoping they work out for me.
Thanks for sharing this. I have been loosing the fat padding for several years which just makes them ache. I will look for a specialist when I get home. My arches are flattening and I want to stop the progression.
Thanks for all the info..
Hope the new shoes help your pain. Ages ago, you recommended the Eco soft 7, and they helped my foot pain so much. I, also, have been buying Arcopedico shoes which are wonderful, too.
I love Arcopedico too! Sadly mine are at home.
There are many supportive fashionable sandals and shoes for day-to-day activities and outings.
I wear the flimsier ones for “sit down” outings like going out to dinner and visiting.
Looking forward to your shoe ideas in future posts.
Agreed. I call those restaurant shoes:)
I have a bunion and also plantar fasciitis and have basically removed all the high heels & flats with no support from my closet 🙁 and replaced them with Naturalizer, Birkenstock and Vionic shoes. They have better fit and support for walking for my feet. I find that some shoes, even though very comfortable for walking are not supportive enough (Skechers for example) and I am still in pain at the end of the day. I recently saw a pedorthic doctor (specialist in orthotics) they sell the Vionic flip flops in their office and he suggestedI get an orthotic to help with my issues. They are made so slim now you can put them in just about any shoe that you can remove the insole.
My old orthotics were so clunky I could get them into any of my shoes. I’m glad to hear they’re improved.
I have had similar problems so I can relate to your issues. When I asked my doctor when I could return to wearing flip flops or slides, she said, “Uh….never.” So I donated all of them and my feet are happier. Love Ilse Jacobsen shoes (although don’t wear them for super long walks as you will start to grip your toes as the shoes stretch) and love, love, love Allbirds. Luckily, sneakers are in style! Also like Gentle Souls (affordable comfort) and some Ecco, Eileen Fisher, and Josef Seibel. In winter (I am in a colder climate), I live in my Blundstone boots. Don’t worry, you will find a good assortment of “comfort” shoes that still look stylish. In fact, I look forward to your updates on your purchases!
Check out Vionic for flip flops, they have the arch support and will probably help you!
I think I’ll be in the same boat. Gripping is bad for me. I love Gentle Souls too. Munro is great. I will be keeping everyone posted.
I feel your pain! I am on the hunt for comfortable, supportive fashion sneakers. For walking/exercise I LOVE Brooks Adrenaline. They are so good that I bought two pair–one to keep for wearing in the house and one for outside. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
Thank Lori. We’re on the same hunt
Thank you for your always very informative blog!
As we spend most of our retired time now in Denmark I am a fan of “Ilse Jacobsen” design! Shoes are comfortable and jackets / pullover have a lovely design.
Also like to recommend “nature shoes”, danish design, handmade in Portugal. Bought several pairs for our long beach walks. They are stylish, but most important for me : super “bequem”!!
All the best to you!
Yours Angela
Great recommendation, thank you! What a great place to spend your retirement
Oh Jennifer, I hope you heal up fine! Sounds quite painful! On your post you mentioned lousy shoes. In my early thirties I injured myself badly with flip flop style (no back) sandals, and after seeing two doctors I swore off backless shoes forever(no flip flops or mule styles ever again!)Having to grip toes on stairs going up or down can be dangerous I learned the hard way!
I hope you’re healing and thinking of your dear feet!
I guess I’m lucky. I listened to similar advise about backless shoes and gave them up before I had a bad experience. There are lots of stylish shoes choices out there with good support and comfort.
I hope you are right about Tulip Flex shoes stretching. I’m still waiting for mine to give a bit to accommodate my wide feet.
That sounds very smart. I’m going to rethink my shoes and go through them all when I get home. Thank you
Hi there! Long time reader first time poster. The Allbirds are fantastic you should get them. The liners are wool and you can replace them when they wear out extending the life of your shoes. I have the Tree Runners and Wool loungers which I wear as house shoes in the winter. So cosy! I’m thinking of getting a third pair actually. 😀
Thank you, Anne! Now to narrow down a color 🙂