Thread: Shoes Board: Oblivion / Ship of Fools.


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Posted by Gwai (# 11076) on :
 
I asked in the general question thread how long people expected a pair of shoes to last if they wore just the one pair. Many people said a year to two. Brenda said better shoes last longer. Some people noted how hard it is to find proper shoes. I wanted to answer again too, so I've started a thread:

I absolutely detest shoe-shopping because it's something I have to do so often. I have relatively flat feet* and maybe I walk funny, but most of my shoes last less than six months before something falls apart. I used to buy $80 dollar shoes, but they still broke in six months. I've since started thrift shopping my shoes or buying cheapo shoes, but they last the same amount of time on average. Maybe if I weren't choosy this would be okay, but I have weird feet, so unfortunately I really am.

I do walk a number of miles every week, so my friend says this is all to be expected, but I swear shoes are a bother. Do you find them easier, or do you have tips?

My weird bucket list item is to have a custom pair of shoes made, but that's very expensive, and for all I know they wouldn't last longer anyway.

*Used to absolutely need inserts, but have changed the way I walk so that I don't anymore.
 

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Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :
 
I hate shopping for shoes. Almost every pair I've ever had have caused me blisters or worse until my feet have been broken in, which usually takes c. 2-3 weeks, half a packet of sticking plasters and the thickest socks I can find, and it still doesn't always work.

I also need a wider fitting these days so most pairs of shoes on sale are going to be too tight. I've resorted to buying flat, comfortable, inexpensive, all-purpose ones when I find them.

I would really love to wear glam shoes, something feminine, colourful and smart, but it's not worth the hassle.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
The other question is whether you can find a better fit by finding shoes of a different type. Can you wear sneakers/trainers/athletic shoes? They are often made sturdier and certainly fit differently. I have found that walking sandals are a very different animal than ordinary sandals. There is also a perceptible difference between shoes made for men and for women. Men's shoes are always wider, often sturdier, and the toe box is wider. If your female feet are big enough that a small men's size can fit you, it might be worth shopping on the other side of the aisle.
I have never bought custom shoes through here, but they have been recommended to me by several people:
Custom shoes
 

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Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on :
 
I will pay £100 to £150 for my primary pair of shoes and wear them almost exclusively. For this I expect them to last a minimum of 18 months and upto to three years.

I will generally by walking shoes or ecco ankle boots, gortex lined because I hate wet feet, usually leather uppers and most importantly - with vibram soles (good grip & last longer). I walk unevenly and can tell when my shoes are getting knackered because they start to squeak. I'll usually wear them till they a) squeak and b) start to go at the seams.

I never buy second hand shoes, I had it dinned in to me as a child that shoes mould to your feet and wearing second hand shoes will hurt your feet.

Generally speaking I am always willing to pay more for shoes than I will for clothes. I think of them a bit like glasses, having a physical impact on my long term health. I almost never wear heels or court shoes for this reason - I know they damage your feet and strain your back.
 

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Posted by no prophet's flag is set so... (# 15560) on :
 
I have found that better quality shoes that actually fit last 6-8 years. I happened across Blundstones about 15 years ago. I can wear them outside in the winter, with a suit, casual. I've had the 500s and 550s, actually I still have all three pairs I've ever bought in 15 years. They are about $180 I think these days. The soles on the first pair are worn, so I leave them at work, just in case I show up in runners. A little shoe polish and they're good. I think people often think of them as a man's shoe, but my wife who teaches at university tells me that she sees them at least as often on women.

I also have some light waterproof hiking books which cost more than the Blundstones, and last about as long. Salomon.
 

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Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on :
 
[crosspost]

(I used to work as a sales assistant in a mountain shop and have been trained to sell shoes. I know that fit varies hugely by make, and there are differences of fit by gender - in particular ankle position is slightly different.)

If it takes weeks for your shoes to break in, and you get blisters, then they have not been fitted properly.

However, one way of avoiding blisters is - rather than a thick sock - using lined socks. The double layer mitigates the rubbing.

[ 11. May 2015, 20:14: Message edited by: Doublethink. ]
 

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Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on :
 
In the past I have had shoes resoled, but my experience is that the price of having vibram replacement is just not really economic.
 

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Posted by Doublethink. (# 1984) on :
 
Crockett & Jones full bespoke handmade leather shoes, from your own last, take six months and cost from 3000 euro upwards
 

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Posted by Amanda B. Reckondwythe (# 5521) on :
 
I've discovered ebay as a good source for both new and pre-owned shoes. Prices are generally lower than in the stores, there's no sales tax, and many merchants do not charge for shipping (those that don't are worth seeking out).

I have two pairs of dress shoes, one brown and one black. I don't remember when I bought them -- it's been at least five years -- but I wear them infrequently and they've lasted and lasted!

I have one pair of Timberland boots that again I wear infrequently -- bought them used on ebay -- and I expect them to last at least two years.

I also have two pairs of sneakers, both bought on ebay -- one new, one used -- that are the shoes I wear primarily every day. I expect they'll last for at least a year -- the new pair longer than that.

As a young adult I wore size 10-1/2 but now in my dotage I can't get into anything smaller than a 12. Depending on the style and brand, I have to go with a 12-1/2 sometimes.
 

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Posted by Hazey*Jane (# 8754) on :
 
In what way do your shoes wear out most frequently? That might give you some guidance as to what features you need to look for.

Depends on your style, but I've found Doc Martens of all varieties to be extremely durable. The soles last very well even with lots of walking. I miss having them in my wardrobe at the moment.
 

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Posted by marzipan (# 9442) on :
 
I walk around a fair bit each day (but not too much) and I find that I'm lucky if I can get a pair of shoes to last me a year. Part of my problem is that I probably don't pay enough, but often expensive shoes have lasted about as long as cheap ones. Although I have fairly normal size/shape feet, I think my shoe preferences are non fashionable at the moment as I have trouble finding ones I like which don't cost a fortune. My most recent pair of boots are lasting quite well though - they're RED ankle boots with a low ish heel, I've had them six months and I've only had to have them re heeled once (generally the heel the cobbler puts on is better than the original anyway!)
My last few pairs of shoes have broken by the upper coming away from the sole, which seems quite common due to how they are fixed together, but is super annoying when you're walking around a rainy city most of the time!
Eta: my shoes have to look good enough to wear to work as well as be able to walk about in so I tend to get 'fashion' shoes or boots rather than walking boots or doc martens etc

[ 11. May 2015, 22:44: Message edited by: marzipan ]
 

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Posted by blackbeard (# 10848) on :
 
It's years - decades - since I bought any shoes from a shoe shop. I am shod thus:

casual wear - trainers, from a sports shop. Really casual, and around house, Crocs (if anything), also from a sports shop

smart leather shoes - are actually deck shoes, from a yacht chandlery. I even have a pair in black, suitable weddings/funerals.

Serious walking - boots, from an outdoorsy shop.

I always check to see a. plenty of toe room, and b. that shoe does not bite into back of heel (Achilles tendon).

Totally agree with Doublethink, I don't believe in extended "breaking in" (beyond a brief introduction shoes/feet).

How long do they last? Years! but I'm fairly light on my feet... except that there's a catch with trainers - the foam plastic underfoot can break down after a while, and the shoe loses its cushioning effect even though the sole might still look OK; when this happens it's time to retire the shoe, from running at least.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
If you go to Ebay, you can refine your shoe search: by size, by new, even by new in box with labels. The key is to be sure of what you want; it is worth knowing the brand and size in advance. I have acquired Birkenstocks this way at significant savings.
 

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Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :
 
I'm another one with difficult feet, precious little flowers that they are.

Last year I discovered Finn Comforts, and when I first stood in them, my BFF saw the look on my face and knew that I finally had comfortable shoes on my feet! They're very pricey, but very well made and I expect them to last a nice, long time.
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
I own one pair of tennis shoes (trainers, whatever) and one pair of decent-for-funerals shoes. That's it, bar a pair of ballet slippers. The reason is that the forefront of my foot (you know, the bit that's supposed to be covered by the tongue and laces of a tennis shoe?) is about an inch higher than normal people's. Which means that unless the shoe has virtually no upper, it will crash against the bone there and hurt like hell. What do you call that, tall-footed? thick-footed? Whatever it is, it's a disaster for a woman who is required to wear non-laced closed toes work-formal shoes (i.e. pumps). I go straight to the men's department and most of those don't work either.

This is all made much much worse by the fact that I have to wear custom orthotics in my shoes, which raises the height of the foot one inch more. My mother says I should just wear the shoebox and be done with it. Thanks, Mom.
 

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Posted by Gee D (# 13815) on :
 

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Originally posted by Doublethink.:
Crockett & Jones full bespoke handmade leather shoes, from your own last, take six months and cost from 3000 euro upwards

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quote:

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Originally posted by Baptist Trainfan:
I think one of the problems in Britain is of shoes made for the Continental market and sized according to its norms.

I am basically a British size 10, which is half-way between a Continental 44 and 45. But the latter are often marked as 9 1/2 and 10 respectively - which they're not. The best fit for me are the British-made Hotter; the lovely German-made Rohde and Siebel shoes just aren't quite right.

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quote:

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Originally posted by la vie en rouge:
AIUI shoes last longer if you don’t wear them every day, i.e. if you only have one pair of shoes and wear them all the time they might last a year. If you invest in buying two pairs at once and alternate them, they will last three years between them.

(I admit this is a little academic in my case because I am one of those people who enjoy shoes and have ahem, several pairs.)

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
Why would shoes last longer if not worn all the time? I believe it could be true, but it doesn't make any sense to me.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Jengie jon:

quote:

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Originally posted by Baptist Trainfan:
I think one of the problems in Britain is of shoes made for the Continental market and sized according to its norms.

I am basically a British size 10, which is half-way between a Continental 44 and 45. But the latter are often marked as 9 1/2 and 10 respectively - which they're not. The best fit for me are the British-made Hotter; the lovely German-made Rohde and Siebel shoes just aren't quite right.

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The difference is the width of the last as there are differences between the average width of feet in different nationalities. Italians tend to have narrow feet when compared with the British.

Jengie

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
Some people though are saying that shoes get more uses when they are worn less often.

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OK, possibly because they get the chance to dry out in between uses from body heat/rainy days, revert to their natural shape, not get too stretched by constant use, etc.

Incidentally do most other people wear shoes indoors? I always leave mine in the hall.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
I have indoor shoes (slippers, scuffs, etc.) and outdoor shoes. This preserves the hardwood floors and carpets, also keeps things like leaves from being tracked in. I also have a couple pairs of shoes I keep at the office. Like many women with ordinary-sized feet I have an inordinate number of shoes, for all occasions, all weather conditions, all activities. I sincerely sympathise with all of you who have odd-sized feet.
 

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Posted by Penny S (# 14768) on :
 
Indoors I have bare feet in summer, socks in winter - can't be bothered with slippers, and in fact rather find them prone to living up to their name, and having two flights of stairs, regard them as risky.
 

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Posted by Pomona (# 17175) on :
 
I have the opposite problem to a lot of people here - I have narrow feet, with high arches/instep . I basically have feet like a Barbie doll! However, while some high street shops do wide fit shoes, nowhere does narrow fit shoes now that Clarks have stopped doing their narrow range. I also need arch support, so ballet flats are out. I usually find trainers/sports shoes and Dr Martens to be the most comfortable. I recently got a pair of Red Or Dead sandals in a sort of strappy Birkenstock style (reduced in the Schuh sale). I wear a 5.5 normally, but these are a 5 and enormous on me! I think the style makes them wide.
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
My feet are British size 2 1/2 and wide and flat, which means I have to wear size 3 as size 2 1/2 are very rare and if actually found are children's shoes and ridiculously narrow by any standard. Not all high street brands sell size 3 either.
My current shoes are wonderfully comfortable rubber soled Mary Jane's by Red or Dead; I have them in 3 colours I always buy several colours if I find shoes that fit well. I expect these to last a good few years as they are well made with thick soles.
My husband finds shoes only last him 6 months to a year with constant wear.
eta Pomona, we must be describing the same shoes!

[ 12. May 2015, 20:33: Message edited by: Heavenly Anarchist ]
 

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Posted by Pomona (# 17175) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
My feet are British size 2 1/2 and wide and flat, which means I have to wear size 3 as size 2 1/2 are very rare and if actually found are children's shoes and ridiculously narrow by any standard. Not all high street brands sell size 3 either.
My current shoes are wonderfully comfortable rubber soled Mary Jane's by Red or Dead; I have them in 3 colours I always buy several colours if I find shoes that fit well. I expect these to last a good few years as they are well made with thick soles.
My husband finds shoes only last him 6 months to a year with constant wear.
eta Pomona, we must be describing the same shoes!

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quote:

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Originally posted by Ariel:

quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
Some people though are saying that shoes get more uses when they are worn less often.

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OK, possibly because they get the chance to dry out in between uses from body heat/rainy days, revert to their natural shape, not get too stretched by constant use, etc.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:
I own one pair of tennis shoes (trainers, whatever) and one pair of decent-for-funerals shoes. That's it, bar a pair of ballet slippers. The reason is that the forefront of my foot (you know, the bit that's supposed to be covered by the tongue and laces of a tennis shoe?) is about an inch higher than normal people's. Which means that unless the shoe has virtually no upper, it will crash against the bone there and hurt like hell. What do you call that, tall-footed? thick-footed?

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quote:

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Whatever it is, it's a disaster for a woman who is required to wear non-laced closed toes work-formal shoes (i.e. pumps). I go straight to the men's department and most of those don't work either.

This is all made much much worse by the fact that I have to wear custom orthotics in my shoes, which raises the height of the foot one inch more.

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Aravon shoes have removeable footbeds so you can put your orthotics in. They sell low-heeled pumps with a low vamp (the vamp is the part of the shoe that would go up over the instep if it had a high vamp). Something like this.

I have high arches and high insteps and plantar fasciitis, and the Aravon sandals I got in March are unbelievably comfy.
 

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Posted by Kelly Alves (# 2522) on :
 
(another person with arch issues here) those are a damn revelation!

Judy: I would be all over these.

[ 13. May 2015, 02:02: Message edited by: Kelly Alves ]
 

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Posted by Leaf (# 14169) on :
 
My taste in shoes tends to the monastic. I have three pairs of shoes, all black: sandals, oxfords, and pumps. That's pretty much it. Oh and one pair of white runners (sneakers, whatevs). Although I must admit that recently, in a fit of spring madness, I blew my mind and annual shoe budget on an outrageous pair of Fluevog heels.

I make up for the lack of quantity with quality. My oxford-types are either Ecco or Mephisto. This sort of thing. Yes, the name, I know, but I think of it as treading the devil underfoot. The Mephistos are expensive, but I wear them every day, all day for years on end. My current pair is two years old, unbefrickinlievably comfortable, and I'll probably replace them next year.
 

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Posted by Palimpsest (# 16772) on :
 
I have foot problems, wide feet and need orthotics.

If your orthotics and instep problems are not as bad as mine, it's worth finding a shoe store that carries orthopedic extra depth and extra wide shoes. They cost upwards of a hundred dollars, but they are usually well made.

They don't fit me so I need $1000 custom shoes which I get from a shoemaker in San Francisco. I think most of his clientele are diabetics who get one pair paid on the Kaiser health plan. I get a prescription but I have to foot the bill and get to San Francisco to get measured. I can pay for it with a pretax health flexible spending account

The good news is that the shoes last several years and I do a fair amount of walking and am very heavy. Mine finally wore out enough that there was a tear in the upper, but my local shoemaker repaired them when he resoled them. They get reheeled about every 6-8 weeks now that they have a new durable heel. I'm going to have to get a new pair this year.

Another thing that's very helpful are Thorlo padded socks. They come in various paddings that make them comfortable. They last a very long time. They are synthetic, and they need to be washed with fabric softener or they get hard.

[ 13. May 2015, 05:20: Message edited by: Palimpsest ]
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 

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Originally posted by Pomona:

quote:

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Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
My feet are British size 2 1/2 and wide and flat, which means I have to wear size 3 as size 2 1/2 are very rare and if actually found are children's shoes and ridiculously narrow by any standard. Not all high street brands sell size 3 either.
My current shoes are wonderfully comfortable rubber soled Mary Jane's by Red or Dead; I have them in 3 colours I always buy several colours if I find shoes that fit well. I expect these to last a good few years as they are well made with thick soles.
My husband finds shoes only last him 6 months to a year with constant wear.
eta Pomona, we must be describing the same shoes!

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These are my sandals. I wouldn't call them Mary Janes though!

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Originally posted by Arch Anglo Catholic:
I 'rotate' my pairs of shoes, never wearing one pair for more than a day at a time, and they last much better.
I have four pairs and the four will last about 5-7 years. Good shoes will stand re-soling regularly and do require regular cleaning and polishing, but you do get what you pay for!

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Originally posted by RuthW:
High instep.

Aravon shoes have removeable footbeds so you can put your orthotics in. They sell low-heeled pumps with a low vamp (the vamp is the part of the shoe that would go up over the instep if it had a high vamp). Something like this.

I have high arches and high insteps and plantar fasciitis, and the Aravon sandals I got in March are unbelievably comfy.

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Thanks for the correct term! I'll have to see if I can find some. Unfortunately, my instep is so high that I couldn't even wear that comfy-looking pair you linked to, I can tell already. I need virtually no vamp. After googling I am informed that the next step up is a club foot
--Off to google that now, as my mother was just diagnosed with a slight degree of that at age 70.
 

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Posted by Gwai (# 11076) on :
 
I love that idea of a lifetime guarantee. I would pay so much more for a pair of shoes with even a five or ten year guarantee. (Yes, I have looked at the couple companies that I know even sort of do that ll bean, and eddie bauer. Neither sells many women's dress shoes. Clarks guarantees their socks, but not as far as I can tell their shoes.) Considering the odds that people would forget to use their guarantees, I bet the added customer service value would be easily worth it. Heck, I've just given free publicity to the companies when I mentioned them just now.

All I can guess is that most people must actually enjoy shopping for shoes. Otherwise they'd stop changing their really successful shoes so that those of us who liked them and would rebuy them could!

[ 13. May 2015, 13:26: Message edited by: Gwai ]
 

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Posted by bib (# 13074) on :
 
I find it very difficult to buy shoes in my size as it is rare to find a shoe shop carrying half sizes and our top shop in the city also had nothing wider than a C fitting (I like a D) as they claimed that women don't have feet that wide! Maybe I'm really a man.
 

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Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
Decorative and functional lacing.

[ 13. May 2015, 15:43: Message edited by: lilBuddha ]
 

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Posted by Pomona (# 17175) on :
 
Ruth and LC, I'm also in the high instep/high arch club! Fortunately my feet seem healthy otherwise, it just makes shoe shopping a pain. Old lady shoes for me I guess!

I would definitely recommend the Red Or Dead sandals I linked to for women with wide feet - they're not described as wide-fitting but they definitely are! They're comfy but so huge on me, though I guess that's better than too small.
 

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Posted by JoannaP (# 4493) on :
 

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Originally posted by Ariel:
Incidentally do most other people wear shoes indoors? I always leave mine in the hall.

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quote:

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Originally posted by JoannaP:

quote:

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Originally posted by Ariel:
Incidentally do most other people wear shoes indoors? I always leave mine in the hall.

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I do most of the time; as a child I was not allowed into my mother's sewing room without shoes on, in case there was a pin on the floor, and the habit has stuck.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Arch Anglo Catholic:
I 'rotate' my pairs of shoes, never wearing one pair for more than a day at a time, and they last much better.
I have four pairs and the four will last about 5-7 years. Good shoes will stand re-soling regularly and do require regular cleaning and polishing, but you do get what you pay for!

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quote:

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Originally posted by Hazey*Jane:

Depends on your style, but I've found Doc Martens of all varieties to be extremely durable. The soles last very well even with lots of walking. I miss having them in my wardrobe at the moment.

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I think Docs used to be really durable - I have a pair that I got second-hand from my cousin more than twenty years ago,which are still fine (and they're the vegan ones, not even leather), but I bought a pair of [url= http://www.drmartens.com/uk//Men%252527s-Boots/Dr-Martens-939-Ben-Boot/p/11292001]these[/url] in February for work, thinking they'd be worth the money and last. Stupid. It rained yesterday, and I ended up with wet feet. The sole has split in the middle where it's glued, so there's a gap. They're still wet today, and I'm working today, so I will spend the whole shift with wet feet, and I can't afford to replace them at the moment.
Not impressed.

On a totally different note - how's about Godzilla heels?
 

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Posted by luvanddaisies (# 5761) on :
 
Oh, sorry. that's weird. The coding using the URL button didn't work, and I didn't look until after the edit window was over. I tried it again just now in this post, and it won't let me use the URL button to do it. If I'd known I'd have used tinyURL. Sorry.
Another reason Docs are crap
 

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Posted by Pomona (# 17175) on :
 
I think that Dr Martens are no longer made in Britain, except for ones specifically labelled as made in Britain - these are marketed as 'heritage' ones and cost more. However mine are the cheaper, not made in Britain sort and I've not had any problems.
 

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Posted by BessLane (# 15176) on :
 
I spend 8-12 hours a day standing on a concrete floor so I appreciate the value of a good pair of shoes. After much trial and error, I found on particular style of running shoe that works well for me and keeps my feet and back happy. The local clothing store keeps several pairs in my size in stock at all times since I'm usually only able to get about 3-4 months out of a pair before they start giving me problems. My current pair (a hideous bright pink color btw) are finally about shot so I'm going tomorrow to get a new pair, hopefully in a much more subdued color.
 

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Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :
 
I once tried on a pair very similar to these. A few steps later they'd taken the skin off the back of my heels and were busy cutting through to the bone, but I did enjoy wearing them until then.

I'm getting fed up with sensible dark shoes which are based on comfort and practicality. I want something fun and colourful for a change, before I'm too old.
 

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Posted by Tree Bee (# 4033) on :
 
I bought these sandals in the blue colourway last Saturday and look forward to wearing them. They are comfy and oh so pretty.
 

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Posted by Pigwidgeon (# 10192) on :
 

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Originally posted by Tree Bee:
I bought these sandals in the blue colourway last Saturday and look forward to wearing them. They are comfy and oh so pretty.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
Some people though are saying that shoes get more uses when they are worn less often.

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I'm sorry if this has already been answered; I didn't get to finish reading before I responded.

I used to sell shoes, and being the nerd that I am I read up on the subject so I could sell more.

Shoes need to dry out after each wearing. Even though it may be freezing outside, and even if your shoes fit snugly, there's always a bit of friction inside between foot and sock and shoe, and that causes heat, and that causes perspiration. Also, I think I remember reading that something like a quarter of all your sweat glands are in your feet -- but don't quote me on that. Still, you shoes absorb this moisture (especially if your socks are doing their job correctly and wicking it away from your skin), and so need time to dry out. One way you can reduce the amount of moisture is to wear a good wicking sock. Try wool, if you haven't already -- yes, even in summer. They're pretty awesome. And soft.

Another reason is that a shoe bends every time you take a step. This constant bending back and forth begins to wear out the materials. Leather can take it a lot longer than many other materials, but the glues and stitches that attach the uppers to the lowers generally cannot (and that's also where the constant moisture starts to work first).

I buy the best pair I can possibly afford (and will stretch just to buy the good ones), because with shoes it seems that you get what you pay for. Merrells and Clarks have always worked very well for me, but I don't need a special size. I also start looking for sales before I actually need a new pair, so that I have more time to shop. Then the oldest "good" pair I have gets relegated to yard work and the yard pair gets thrown away.

Whether you end up with two pair or one, you can buy shoe trees to put in them when you aren't wearing them. I invested in cedar because the wood helps dry them better and helps get rid of any odor. I'm particularly careful to put them in my dress shoes. It helps them keep their shape, too. If you get your shoes especially wet, put them in a warm place (but not hot) and stuff newspaper inside. Change the paper once or twice if needed, and then put them away when they're dry to the touch. If the insoles come out, pull them out as well. Never put shoes in the dryer unless they're the yard shoes, because the heat will melt the insole and glues.

And that's way, way more than you ever wanted to know about shoes.

ETA: I wouldn't reccommend this for shoes you intend to wear more than once a week or so, but you can actually get shoes stretched. We used to have a stretcher in the stockroom and could do it in anywhere between a few minutes to overnight, depending on the amount needed. It generally only works with leather shoes, though, and can't change the length. But if you absolutely must have that pair of pumps for a wedding or weekly business meeting and simply cannot find your size, try a stretch.

[ 16. May 2015, 00:46: Message edited by: Barefoot Friar ]
 

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Posted by Eigon (# 4917) on :
 
I used to be the "Saturday girl" at a vintage clothes shop, and I remember one lady trying on a pair of 1940s vintage high heels. She was delighted - she said she couldn't wear modern high heels, but these were really comfortable. (I'm afraid I don't remember what make they were)
 

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Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
I'm amazed that a Barefoot Friar wears shoes, let alone sells them
 

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Posted by Barefoot Friar (# 13100) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
I'm amazed that a Barefoot Friar wears shoes, let alone sells them

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We all have our worldly temptations, don't we?
 

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Posted by The Intrepid Mrs S (# 17002) on :
 
Another one with funny feet here - broad, rather flat, with occasional bumps on joints - oh, and chilblains ow ow ow. I wear a lot of Pavers or FlyFlot shoes and sandals, especially the clog/mule type as that saves me from having badly rubbed heels. As for breaking in new shoes, my feet always give in first so if the shoe isn't comfortable straight away, forget it.

Normally the clogs have a little bit of heel, but for Miss S's wedding I had a fab pair of Clarks fuchsia pink suede court shoes with high heels (and a little bit of a platform) and they were surprisingly comfortable, or maybe that was just the excitement .

Am I the only person who dislikes seeing girls in ballet flats? They can't give any support at all - will the poor things all have plantar fasciitis in later life?

Mrs. S, no-one hates shoe shopping more than me
 

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Posted by Drifting Star (# 12799) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Mrs. S, no-one hates shoe shopping more than me

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quote:

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Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
I wear a lot of Pavers or FlyFlot shoes and sandals, especially the clog/mule type as that saves me from having badly rubbed heels.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Drifting Star:

quote:

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Originally posted by The Intrepid Mrs S:
Mrs. S, no-one hates shoe shopping more than me

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We should go shoe shopping together. We could glance in the direction of the shoe shop and then go and have coffee instead.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Yangtze:
Presumably not just that the heels or soles have worn down because shoes can be re-heeled and re-soled.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
...re-soled for $40...

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Yikes. Round here it's about £10 for re-soling and £5 for re-heeling.

(Actually I think I paid £18 for re-soling one pair recently but there was something special about them, though I forget what right now! Maybe the pair with an actual hole in the sole.)

[ 19. May 2015, 20:09: Message edited by: Yangtze ]
 

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Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
LC--

quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:
I own one pair of tennis shoes (trainers, whatever) and one pair of decent-for-funerals shoes. That's it, bar a pair of ballet slippers. The reason is that the forefront of my foot (you know, the bit that's supposed to be covered by the tongue and laces of a tennis shoe?) is about an inch higher than normal people's. Which means that unless the shoe has virtually no upper, it will crash against the bone there and hurt like hell. What do you call that, tall-footed? thick-footed? Whatever it is, it's a disaster for a woman who is required to wear non-laced closed toes work-formal shoes (i.e. pumps). I go straight to the men's department and most of those don't work either.

This is all made much much worse by the fact that I have to wear custom orthotics in my shoes, which raises the height of the foot one inch more. My mother says I should just wear the shoebox and be done with it. Thanks, Mom.

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Much of that is similar to me. I can't wear shoes where the opening is cut like ballet slippers, because it cuts into the high curve of my foot. I can wear loafers, sneakers (aka tennis/running shoes), some sandals, and some boots. I also need good balance and good traction. So I generally wear sensible shoes--Reebok's, Timberland, Ecco--with flat, thick, textured soles. I also tend to have just one pair at a time, because my feet have a hard time adapting between pairs.

ETA: Oh, and cost is a big issue. I go to discount outlets (like DSW), and look for sales there. I used to also go to stores like Timberland. I've also bought second-hand shoes--workable, if they're in good condition and you use a skin-safe, low-toxicity disinfectant. Or, if washable, put them through the washer, and dry on low heat.

[ 20. May 2015, 05:06: Message edited by: Golden Key ]
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
It was really annoying because I used to work for a boss who wanted "femininity" grrrrr in the women who worked under him, and that is simply not possible when your choice is tennis shoes (not allowed) or the only pair of man's formal shoes that fit in the whole freakin' city (not much of an exaggeration, that). I was so sorry to disoblige him (no I wasn't) but it was certainly one element in our disintegrating relationship. Heels he wanted, and heels he didn't get. (nor skirts, nor home-baked goodies, nor any of the other crap he expected from a professional)
 

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Posted by Penny S (# 14768) on :
 
Could women faced with dress codes that demand unsuitable shoes cite elfin safety and submit papers on the damage that ensues from incorrect footwear, pointing out that employers wouldn't really want legal cases about it, would they?
 

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Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
Lamb Chopped: what you're describing is called a high instep - not uncommon, not a deformity and there is a not too expensive solution.

Go to a shop that sells shoes for theatrical productions and ballet shoes: they will be used to producing made-to-measure shoes in a variety of styles. Go through the stuff they can produce and get them to make you a pair - they'll ensure they fit you properly and you should get a choice of styles.

If such a beast doesn't exist on your side of the pond then there are two firms in London, both of which do mail order: these are Annello & Davide and Freed of London.

A&D in particular may be of interest since they do theatrical/historical made-to-measure shoes (their styles start at pre-Roman and go through to 20th century, plus middle Eastern!). I'm pretty sure you'll find something to suit, although it may be pricey - but then something that fits properly will last longer in any case.
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Thank you!
 

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Posted by Jane R (# 331) on :
 
Lamb Chopped There are laws against that kind of behaviour in the EU, though they are not always rigorously enforced.

Penny S:

quote:

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Could women faced with dress codes that demand unsuitable shoes cite elfin safety and submit papers on the damage that ensues from incorrect footwear, pointing out that employers wouldn't really want legal cases about it, would they?

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quote:

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Originally posted by Jane R:
Lamb Chopped There are laws against that kind of behaviour in the EU, though they are not always rigorously enforced.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Firenze:
In fact this one and this.

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Really hope that they give you happy feet, Firenze!

Mrs S, who will feel guilty if they don't
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
I have been reading this with interest. I have flat feet, very flat and a fallen arch on one foot. Getting shoes which are comfortable on both feet is hard.

I always wear flat shoes, never heels, often with a strap over instep. Last night I walked a few metres from tap to table and could hardly put my right foot to the floor when I reached table.

Right shoe has spectacularly and suddenly died. It had come apart upper from sole, down inside length. There was a crack across part of the under instep, large portions of the sole appeared to have been chewed by a dog and left across the floor. Sole under heel was thinking of disintegrating.

These are about eight years old and have had a lot of wear. They were not expensive.

I am not complaining, I have had my money's worth. I am just surprised at the sudden overwhelming demise. I have others about the same age so will inspect regularly and carefully.
 

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Posted by Pine Marten (# 11068) on :
 
I too have been reading this with interest. Currently I get my shoes from Cosyfeet , which was recommended on the Diabetes UK forums.

I have had surgery for bunions in the past, and as I also have type 2 diabetes I need to take extra care of my tootsies. Cosyfeet have very wide fitting shoes, soft seams, and they also do socks and hosiery. I despaired of finding shoes that fit before I discovered them - and if you have a chronic condition you don't have to pay VAT
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Thanks Pine Marten for the link. I have ordered some warm soft boots for winter here. Will get more if these are fine for me.
 

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Posted by OliviaCA (# 18399) on :
 
Love this thread.

I have practically given up on "serious" shoes, and tend to wear knitted-boot-slippers or men's sandals indoors, and trainers or men's sandals outdoors.

I did have a pair of red leather kickers bought second-hand ( nearly new ) which lasted ( about 5? ) years, and a pair of ( single-strap/mary-jane ) black caterpillars which lasted ditto, but haven't found anything like them since, so trainers it is, because cheap and comfortable.

Luckily I don't have a job with dress-code.

My sister gave me a pair of classy italian leather hiking boots last year which I dubbined, ( they need scraping though; I got a little too enthusiastic with the grease :lol ), but I'm almost afraid to wear them in case they wear out just before I need them for something serious.

At a wedding a few years back I was reduced to wearing tiny black-canvas-gym-dance-slip-ons.

The sort of shoe most women seem to wear to events/with smart clothing don't seem to belong in the same universe/dimension as my feet. :?



[ 22. May 2015, 14:12: Message edited by: OliviaCA ]
 

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Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
Depends on what you buy. I'd be very disappointed if my DocMartin AirWare shoes lasted less than 5 years.

Handmade shoes can last for years, for example, people take their children to a shop in Totnes especially to buy handmade shoes which can be stretched after 1 year to a larger size.
 

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Posted by Baptist Trainfan (# 15128) on :
 
The children, of course, stretch themselves without much help except for feeding.
 

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Posted by Penny S (# 14768) on :
 
The subject came up when I went to a friend's for lunch. She had even investigated bespoke shoes, but they would have cost £1000 for the first pair (including last making) and £500 thereafter. she is currently wearing shoes from Aldi.
 

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Posted by Firenze (# 619) on :
 
Heavens. I remember my uncle telling me how he and my grandfather decided to make their own boots one year- quite successfully, I understand. For years our household impedimenta included a cobbler's last (which we used as a kind of mini anvil for cracking nuts).
 

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Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by OliviaCA:
I did have a pair of red leather kickers ...

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quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:

quote:

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Originally posted by OliviaCA:
I did have a pair of red leather kickers ...

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Of course I read this as red leather knickers...

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quote:

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Originally posted by Penny S:

quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:

quote:

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Originally posted by OliviaCA:
I did have a pair of red leather kickers ...

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Of course I read this as red leather knickers...

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I think I may have seen a pair of those in M&S sale yesterday.

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Sure it wasn't a S&M sale?
 

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Posted by Chocoholic (# 4655) on :
 
Another pair of funny feet checking in! Little and wide and if I wear more than a loafer type heel for any time get quite a bit of pain around my big toe (even after I take them off as I've a small bunion). They also swell at the smallest provocation so I can sit down for dinner with one size feet, stand up a bit later and they've grown! So cue funny walking with suddenly tight shoes.
I love my Birkenstocks and crocs sadly neither are allowed at work.

I did find some gorgeous fuschia faux suede ballet pumps at M&S a few years ago with a blingy bow, they are almos wearing through the sole now but I'm it sure I can get the resoled, I'd love to find some more though.

I've also had some blingy thing sandals from there, I can't usually wear those at all but these are so thin they are ok.
M&S wide fit range have kept me shod for a fair few years now

[ 23. May 2015, 11:24: Message edited by: Chocoholic ]
 

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Posted by Ariel (# 58) on :
 
Fun morning trying on summer sandals in a variety of shops. The pair I particularly liked didn't fit, unfortunately, and the other pair I thought about would have been ankle-twisters but still pretty enough to make me regretful.

That and the quest for a new summer handbag will probably keep me entertained over the bank holiday.
 

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Posted by OliviaCA (# 18399) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Firenze:

quote:

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Originally posted by Penny S:

quote:

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Originally posted by Lamb Chopped:

quote:

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Originally posted by OliviaCA:
I did have a pair of red leather kickers ...

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Of course I read this as red leather knickers...

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I think I may have seen a pair of those in M&S sale yesterday.

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Sure it wasn't a S&M sale?

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:lol
... :rofl!
... ...
.

[ 23. May 2015, 13:05: Message edited by: OliviaCA ]
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
I love my Fit Flops

I have two pairs of the flip flop ones and a pair of the clogs which are never off my feet in the house.

In the evenings I can be found five inch heel gorgoeus MissKG shoes, which I will be wearing for my son's wedding. So I am wearing them in and practicing wearing heels again as it's ages since I did!

I also have a pair of kitten heels wich will go under the twin's pram for when I can wear them no longer - I will let you know how long I last! (The wedding is on June 20th)

[ 23. May 2015, 13:23: Message edited by: Boogie ]
 

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Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
Now, Ship of Fools - I blame you!

I went on the KG site to link the shoes I bought for the wedding, wandered into the sale section and ordered a pair of boots!

Very nice too
 

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Posted by Pyx_e (# 57) on :
 
I made my own shoes last week.
One a day course, these but blue........

Very interesting experience and very comfortable shoes, I too have a high instep and as these are tailor made they are the best fitting shoes I have.

I never wear the same shoes 2 days running and have MANY shoes. sigh.
 

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Posted by Brenda Clough (# 18061) on :
 
Wow, those look wonderful but are spendy.
 

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Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Pyx_e:
I made my own shoes last week.

I never wear the same shoes 2 days running and have MANY shoes. sigh.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Pyx_e:
Actual Shoes

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Drool.
 

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Posted by Lothlorien (# 4927) on :
 
Pine Marten suggested Cosyfeet for comfortable, adjustable shoes. Lsat Friday I had an email re despatch of a pair of soft boots with straps around the ankle. I had ordered them four hours earlier. Today, Friday again, I am wearing them. They are very comfortable and I love them. Pretty good service to get to Sydney, Australia in a week from ordering.
 

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Posted by Pine Marten (# 11068) on :
 
Glad to oblige, Lothlorien! Hope they last well
 

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Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :
 
I buy good walking shoes from the Cotswolds shop, and I signed up for free to their scheme where they take my details, give me a card, and I get a two year guarantee on the shoes. These are my main shoes, and I often walk several miles a day, and I expect them to last two years or I will get them replaced. They have lasted eighteen months so far.
 

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Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :
 
I should add that the brand I buy is Salomon, and they cost £85. And I have odd-shaped feet - very wide, high and short, with very high arches, and normally shoes don't last me more than six months. But these are good. Merrell is a good brand too - the staff in the shop are good at recommending what is good for your needs, if you go to a shop that specialises in outdoors gear. I asked for trainers and they recommended walking shoes instead, and they were right. I find walking shoes better than trainers because they are firm and supportive, and my ankles twist easily. And because I walk - I don't run. I always buy waterproof shoes, because there's lots of rain where I live.
 

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Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :
 
I was reading the other day that Doc Martens have certain shoes and boots that come with a lifetime guarantee - the 'for life' brand. I've never tried Doc Martens, but it intrigued me - apparently they will continue to repair or replace them whenever they wear out. Seems a good investment.
 

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Posted by Curiosity killed ... (# 11770) on :
 
You mean the Dr Martens For Life range. But they do make heels, flowers and fun boots, plus shoes, but I haven't been able to wear the shoes.
 

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Posted by Fineline (# 12143) on :
 
Ah yes, I meant 'range', rather than 'brand'. They have both boots and shoes in the 'for life' range:

For women
For men

I think I would find the boots more comfortable than the shoes, although I've never tried either, so don't know.
 

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Posted by daisydaisy (# 12167) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Tree Bee:
I bought these sandals in the blue colourway last Saturday and look forward to wearing them. They are comfy and oh so pretty.

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quote:

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Originally posted by daisydaisy:

quote:

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Originally posted by Tree Bee:
I bought these sandals in the blue colourway last Saturday and look forward to wearing them. They are comfy and oh so pretty.

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Thank you for finding these - I have ordered the fuschia colour pair online because my nearest 2 shops aren't stocking them.... I don't usually buy shoes online because my feet are so fussy, but these look like they'll do the trick.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
...I have at least found a brand of shoes I like and can wear at affordable prices.

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quote:

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Originally posted by Gwai:
*whine* Why oh why will nobody put a for life type guarantee on any kind of shoe I could even maybe wear into an office? Even a two year guarantee. Boy would they keep all my business */whine*

On the other hand, I have at least found a brand of shoes I like and can wear at affordable prices. My husband will have to put up with me having a spare pair of shoes in the closet. (For a man who doesn't have any shoes besides dress shoes and winter boots, me having winter boots, sandals, other pair of sandals someone gave me, black dress boots, brown dress boots, and backup black dress boots is a huge number of shoes.)

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