[La lamy]

OOFOS flip flops 90% of the time. They are AWESOME. The rest is pickleball shoes on the courts.

[badkarma318]

Hoka, Merrell, Salomon, Oakley, Lowa, etc.

Have never worn Birkenstock/Crocs, never will.

Don't ever wear flip-flops when you're out and about.

[Tathom]

Always Brooks! Great support, has different shoes with medium to high support. Cushion, breathable, comfortable and available.

[PugMom]

great thread! mostly i wear Ryka orthopedic sneakers with shorts or jeans. when wearing skirts or dresses, it's a rockport mule-type covered toe shoe

[PugMom]

Originally Posted by OrangeBlossomBaby

I LOVED my Abeos. I need a wide, non-pointy toe box and metatarsal support, because I have a neuroma. But getting "wide" width shoes wasn't a good option because my heel isn't wide. I'd just keep slipping out of them.

The inserts that the Walking Company sells are the best. They're inflexible arches with metatarsal pads and a nice well-cushioned heel cup. If you have dropped arches or pronated ankles, nothing's better in my opinion.

I've been wearing Merrell's hiking shoes (from Fleet Feet). Not happy with the style I picked this time around, the toe is too tapered and it's irritating my neuroma. But the last style I picked was amazing.

I also wear Birkenstocks. Another shoe I really miss is Earth Shoes, with the negative heel.

I have a pair of Skechers but I can barely wear them. Their insole is fixed and not removable, so you can't add orthotics without it raising your foot higher than it should be, and that causes irritation around the seams.

try using the Spenco 'boot-style' inserts. my dr recommended these years ago & i have a pair in every shoe. don't be alarmed by the boot-style, it fits all shoes and has better support. you may have to get then on amazon

[Katheelee]

I am still teaching so I am on my feet throughout the day. I used to live in blowfish canvas sneakers. My new go to is hobibear barefoot shoes. These have a wider toe bed and slip on ( covered elastic adjustable bands on top) I now have 3 pairs because they are so comfortable!

[Topspinmo]

Why I hardly ever wear Sandals and flip flops

AI Overview quote

Yes, certain types of sandals, particularly those with little to no support, can negatively impact your feet. They may lack the cushioning, arch support, and stability needed for comfortable and healthy walking, potentially leading to pain and injuries.
Here's a more detailed look at why some sandals can be problematic:
Lack of Support:
Minimal Sole and Arch Support:
Many sandals have thin, flat soles and lack adequate arch support, leading to increased stress on the feet and potential pain.
Poor Stability:
Sandals with little to no ankle support can increase the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries, especially when walking on uneven surfaces.
Toe Rubbing and Blisters:
The design of some sandals, like thongs, can cause constant rubbing against the toes, potentially leading to blisters and other skin issues.
Potential Health Issues:
Plantar Fasciitis:
.
The lack of cushioning and support can contribute to plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.
Tendonitis:
.
Insufficient support can strain tendons in the foot and ankle, leading to tendonitis.
Stress Fractures:
.
Prolonged wear of sandals without adequate support can increase the risk of stress fractures in the foot.
Bunions and Hammertoe:
.
Inadequate support and the way sandals fit can put pressure on the joints of the feet, potentially worsening existing conditions like bunions and hammertoe.
Tips for Choosing Sandals:
Look for good arch support: Choose sandals with a contoured footbed and firm midsole for proper arch support.
Consider a heel cup: A secure heel cup can help stabilize the foot and provide better support.
Opt for cushioned soles: Choose sandals with a good amount of cushioning to help absorb shock and reduce impact.
Select sandals with ankle straps: Ankle straps can provide additional stability and prevent slippage.
Avoid sandals with thin, flat soles: Thin soles offer minimal protection and cushioning.
Consider your activity level: Choose sandals that are appropriate for your intended use, such as walking short distances or participating in sports.
When to Seek Professional Advice:
If you experience persistent foot pain or have concerns about your foot health, consult a podiatrist. They can assess your foot type, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide guidance on how to maintain healthy feet

Here's why flip-flops can be harmful:
Lack of Support and Cushioning:
Flip-flops typically lack arch support, shock absorption, and heel cushioning, which can strain the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot) and lead to pain and inflammation.
Toe Gripping:
The open design of flip-flops forces your toes to work harder to grip the shoe, which can lead to hammertoe and other foot deformities.
Impact on Posture and Gait:
Wearing flip-flops can alter your natural walking pattern, potentially causing pain and discomfort in your ankles, knees, hips, and back.
Increased Risk of Injury:
The flimsy nature of flip-flops can increase your risk of stubbed toes, cuts, and infections.
Worsening Existing Conditions:
Flip-flops can exacerbate conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis.
While flip-flops might be fine for short-term use, they should not be worn regularly or for prolonged periods:
Choose supportive footwear:
Opt for shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and a snug fit for everyday wear.
Consider foot-friendly options:
If you enjoy the comfort of flip-flops, look for styles with more support and a thicker sole.
Don't compromise on protection:
Avoid flip-flops in activities that require stability, protection, and support, such as driving, gardening, or working with tools.

Why hard to get appointments at foot doctor…

[ValPal216]

My go to’s are Hoka’s. Clifton or Bondi models for serious walking. Solimar for everyday casual. They come in Wides. I had bunion surgery in December 2024. Took a trip to France in April and walked about 14k steps a day, wearing my Bondi 9s, without a care in the world.

[Sherkugawa]

Originally Posted by mbene

My go to has been New Balance for everyday but since retirement I've been in flip flops mostly. Now, as I'm "maturing", I'm looking for a shoe I can comfortably walk in.
The New Balance aren't doing it anymore and the flip flops just don't have the support plus I've tripped in them a few times and don't want to fall.
What's your go to for everyday wear?

For everyday wear I’ve switched to Skechers and they are fine for short walks at least. For longer walks I went to Fleet Feet and was fitted. Found a pair of shoes that are very comfortable and great for my longer walks.

[Velvet]

Something sexy but comfy, my requirements. Crocs are great in water, good traction but def not sexy.

[manaboutown]

Ferragamo.

[JMintzer]

Originally Posted by Topspinmo

Why I hardly ever wear Sandals and flip flops

AI Overview quote

Yes, certain types of sandals, particularly those with little to no support, can negatively impact your feet. They may lack the cushioning, arch support, and stability needed for comfortable and healthy walking, potentially leading to pain and injuries.
Here's a more detailed look at why some sandals can be problematic:
Lack of Support:
Minimal Sole and Arch Support:
Many sandals have thin, flat soles and lack adequate arch support, leading to increased stress on the feet and potential pain.
Poor Stability:
Sandals with little to no ankle support can increase the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries, especially when walking on uneven surfaces.
Toe Rubbing and Blisters:
The design of some sandals, like thongs, can cause constant rubbing against the toes, potentially leading to blisters and other skin issues.
Potential Health Issues:
Plantar Fasciitis:
.
The lack of cushioning and support can contribute to plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.
Tendonitis:
.
Insufficient support can strain tendons in the foot and ankle, leading to tendonitis.
Stress Fractures:
.
Prolonged wear of sandals without adequate support can increase the risk of stress fractures in the foot.
Bunions and Hammertoe:
.
Inadequate support and the way sandals fit can put pressure on the joints of the feet, potentially worsening existing conditions like bunions and hammertoe.
Tips for Choosing Sandals:
Look for good arch support: Choose sandals with a contoured footbed and firm midsole for proper arch support.
Consider a heel cup: A secure heel cup can help stabilize the foot and provide better support.
Opt for cushioned soles: Choose sandals with a good amount of cushioning to help absorb shock and reduce impact.
Select sandals with ankle straps: Ankle straps can provide additional stability and prevent slippage.
Avoid sandals with thin, flat soles: Thin soles offer minimal protection and cushioning.
Consider your activity level: Choose sandals that are appropriate for your intended use, such as walking short distances or participating in sports.
When to Seek Professional Advice:
If you experience persistent foot pain or have concerns about your foot health, consult a podiatrist. They can assess your foot type, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide guidance on how to maintain healthy feet

Here's why flip-flops can be harmful:
Lack of Support and Cushioning:
Flip-flops typically lack arch support, shock absorption, and heel cushioning, which can strain the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot) and lead to pain and inflammation.
Toe Gripping:
The open design of flip-flops forces your toes to work harder to grip the shoe, which can lead to hammertoe and other foot deformities.
Impact on Posture and Gait:
Wearing flip-flops can alter your natural walking pattern, potentially causing pain and discomfort in your ankles, knees, hips, and back.
Increased Risk of Injury:
The flimsy nature of flip-flops can increase your risk of stubbed toes, cuts, and infections.
Worsening Existing Conditions:
Flip-flops can exacerbate conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis.
While flip-flops might be fine for short-term use, they should not be worn regularly or for prolonged periods:
Choose supportive footwear:
Opt for shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and a snug fit for everyday wear.
Consider foot-friendly options:
If you enjoy the comfort of flip-flops, look for styles with more support and a thicker sole.
Don't compromise on protection:
Avoid flip-flops in activities that require stability, protection, and support, such as driving, gardening, or working with tools.

Why hard to get appointments at foot doctor…

Waaay too much generalization in that essay...

[Topspinmo]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

Waaay too much generalization in that essay...

But Amit it, made fine career off Sandals and flip flops…..

[Furnier]

Originally Posted by mbene

My go to has been New Balance for everyday but since retirement I've been in flip flops mostly. Now, as I'm "maturing", I'm looking for a shoe I can comfortably walk in.
The New Balance aren't doing it anymore and the flip flops just don't have the support plus I've tripped in them a few times and don't want to fall.
What's your go to for everyday wear?

I like Hoka brand. There are different models and it is best to go to a store where they will fit you with a different model and see what works with your foot.
I see them on a lot of other seniors too.

[tophcfa]

Crocs or barefoot.