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Ecco Posted by turrbo [Email] (#8) [Profile/Gallery] (more from turrbo) on Thu, 15 Mar 2007 17:53:58 In Reply to: Shoe suggestions?, steve, Thu, 15 Mar 2007 17:20:21 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Merrells are great for trail, but not for lots of walking on pavement, since they use a rubber sole with some "air cushion" inside." Don't even bother with Rockports, they're made only for the low price point. Red Wings makes decent work boots, that's about it. Also don't even bother with Nike, New Balance, etc. for walking...great sneakers, but not for walking.
What you need is an Ecco shoe. You need a polyurethane sole with built-in shock absorbing plugs. PU will not wear out like rubber, but allows tons of cushioning and support to be built right in. Most Ecco shoes use direct injection technology so that there is no stitching, this allows for greater flexibility. Also, since they are European made, they fit wider at the toe and grip from the vamp to the heel, which lets blood circulate to your toes. Without proper blood circulation, you're feet feel fatigued quickly. The Ecco Seawalker is the most comfortable walker. If you have a deep arch, the Ecco Cross is better. Don't let anyone tell you that Eccos don't fit wide or narrow feet, because they do. Prices range from $130-$180 for the walking styles.
Another alternative that's equally as comfortable is SAS. They're ugly, though, so you may like the style of the Ecco better. Also, Mephistos are amazing, but also ugly and more expensive than Eccos. Clarks/Privos are good if you're looking for a lower price, but won't be quite as comfortable or last as long.
There is a brand called MBT that has suddenly gained some market share. It's a very odd shoe that incorporates a thick sole that forces you to continually rock and adjust yourself. Over time, this strengthens muscles and forces you to walk correctly. They have tons of shock absorption in them, and good cushioning. Supposedly these are very comfortable, though you must SLOWLY work yourself into them. Not good for knee or ankle problems. Around $260.
I've worked in the footwear industry in various forms since I was 15 years old (I'm almost 22), so I know what I'm talking about. There's no such thing as a cheap shoe that will be comfortable and durable. Ecco leads the industry in comfort technology, and is widely recognized as the leader in comfort. Try a pair on, make sure you're fitted properly by someone that knows what they're doing. They are sized by the metric scale, so make sure you have the proper size. If it's not comfy as soon as you put it on, don't buy it, try a different style. Shoes stretch somewhat, but never in length. Ecco makes awesome sandals too.
No, I don't work for Ecco. I don't even sell shoes anymore, I work in the business office.
*Steps off soap box*
_______________________________________ ¯_(ツ)_/¯ -turrbo My babies: 1995 9000 Super CS 2001 9-3 SE Convertible (gone but still in the family) 2004 9-3 Aero Convertible (sold but in good hands) 2007 9-3 Aero SS 2008 9-3 Aero Convertible
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