Tuesday, July 1, 2008

My Never-Ending Search

For a sandals that are comfortable, relatively cushioned and supportive and cute. Relation to running? Well, before I started running, I'd walk anywhere in any shoe. Walking miles in 3 inch heeled boots, flip-flops, or ill-fitting shoes was probably a big contributor to my serious bouts with IT-band syndrome while training for my first 2 marathons. Since I gave up heels (I'm working on flip-flops), no IT problems.


Here are the criteria for the elusive comfortable and cute sandal:

  • Can't be just a flip-flop. Podiatrist says flip-flops are one of the worst things for your feet.
  • Must have some sort of ankle strap or extra strap across the foot to keep shoe in place.
  • More than 1/8 inch between my foot and the street. Must have some sort of cushioning.
  • Preferably some degree of arch support.
  • Not orthopedic grandma shoes.

Here's what I've come up with:


Sundance Aurelia Sandals, $58. They're promising: ankle strap, arch support, comfy cork sole. But are they cute enough. I can picture them working with certain outfits, but not sure about dresses.







Clarks Thunder Perf, $74. Arch support and cushioning are good. No ankle strap, but that extra strap across the top looks like it would help keep the shoe in place. Cute? Meh.







Mephisto Affia, $184. Similar to above, only more expensive. Maybe slightly cuter because of buckle detail? Too expensive anyway





Teva Conchita Thong, $69. I have the sister sandal of this, a regular flip-flop. These have that extra strap across the top that looks like it would add some support.




Comments? Suggestions? What do you guys wear on your feet during the summer?

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

I tried on the Clarks and they are not very cute. Sort of orthopedic looking. I am also on this quest, so let me know what you find...

As far as flip flops, I know they are bad, but at least Reefs have decent support... Do Rainbows or Reefs make anything with an ankle strap??

TNT Jim said...

What about Birkenstocks? I think they make some fashionable sandal type thingy. Or dare I suggest...Crocs?

Dawn said...

Ya know, I was decididely anti-crocs and anti-birkenstock, but I've been seeing some people rock a metallic birkenstock, and it doesn't look that bad. As for crocs, the only ones I might consider are the ballet flats, but no arch support. I just don't look cute in wide, bulky shoes.

Anonymous said...

CROCS ARE THE MOST UNCOMFORTABLE SHOES I'VE EVER TRIED ON. They are rubber!!! My feet sweat in them!!!!

I also tend to shy away from birks but....

JuneH said...

Dear Daughter, They are all ugly. Please keep looking. I have to replace all my "bad" shoes also. I'm afraid I did this to you. So sorry. I'm paying for it with my own pain. Love ya!

Dawn said...

Mom,

Of course you comment on the shoes. Not the little boy who is learning how to walk again. Shoes. Not the tribute to dad and our family's story. Shoes. Of course.

Just kidding! You know I love you and your taste in shoes!

Dawn said...
This comment has been removed by the author.