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Comfort Shoes

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated November 05, 2009

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These comfort shoes are designed to provide comfort and cushioning for those who are on their feet all day, or are designed to relieve various kinds of foot pain. Some comfort shoes use patented technology and rely more on testimonials than research. Others have won the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). Because the causes of foot discomfort vary, no one design can relieve all problems. If you have foot pain, it is wise to consult a foot health expert to get a recommendation for your specific problem.

1. ECCO Mobile Shoes

Ecco Mobile ShoeCourtesy of Pricegrabber
I am a big fan of ECCO shoes and boots for comfort at work. This model is a lightweight, flexible leather shoe with an anatomic footbed and moisture-wicking lining. These shoes would be great for going from standing to taking a few laps during your lunch or breaks. This model received the APMA Seal of Acceptance.
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2. Etonic DRx™ Trans Am

Etonic DRx Trans Am Walking ShoeCourtesy of Pricegrabber
These are very comfortable, well-cushioned shoes that are also lightweight and flexible - excellent for walking comfort. The Trans Am model is "orthotic ready" with inserts and shoe liners designed to be removed to be replaced with a prescription orthotic.
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3. Rockport Walker

Rockport Pro Walker ShoeCourtesy of Pricegrabber
Most Rockport shoe designs have won the APMA Seal of Acceptance. I have generally found Rockports to be too stiff in the sole to promote proper roll-through of the foot when walking. But for a comfort shoe for standing/walking these designs may be appropriate.
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4. MBT Sport Walkers by Swiss Masai

MBT Sport Walker ShoesCourtesy of Pricegrabber
MBT©, Masai Barefoot Technology mimics the way the Masai tribe walks barefoot. These shoes have a stiff fiberglass in the sole. MBT shoes have no heel, forcing you to really roll through each step from heel to toe, enforcing good walking technique. They are heavier shoes and can take some getting used to. The makers claim that the design can make you feel better from head to toe. If you have problem feet and have tried many different solutions, MBT shoes are one more option.
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5. Z-CoiL

Z-CoiL Freedom ShoePhoto courtesy of Z-CoiL
Z-Coil shoes are super-cushioned by a spring in the heel and major cushioning in the forefoot, plus a stiff orthotic. Testimonials abound for them helping conditions such as plantar fasciitis. They also have a big market among those who must walk and stand all day on concrete surfaces - such as nurses, store clerks, etc. They are individually fit by a distributor to ensure proper fit. The drawbacks are that they are heavy and rather odd looking - but you can get them with an enclosed heel. They have styles for comfort walking as well as fitness walking and trail walking.

6. Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Birkenstock Arizona SandalCourtesy of Pricegrabber
Many of my friends with problem feet finally found comfort when switching to Birkenstock sandals with their negative heelbed. While I take testimonials with a grain of salt, I can point to many people who will only wear Birkenstocks due to their great experiences.
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7. Earth Shoes

Orion Earth ShoeCourtesy of Pricegrabber
Earth Shoes feature the KALSO® Negative Heel™ Technology, which they claim promotes the natural way of walking, like you are walking barefoot in sand.

8. SAS Shoes

SAS ShoesPhoto © Wendy Bumgardner
For many years, volkssport walkers throughout the USA swore by SAS shoes. These were in fact the only shoes I could wear at work to prevent aching, tired feet when my job required constant standing and moving short distances. SAS Shoes are not sold on the internet. They are best found at SAS Factory Outlet stores at factory outlet malls, or at comfort shoe stores. They are well-cushioned and flexible, great for walking but a bit hot.

9. Nike Free 5.0

Nike Free 5.0 Run and ZenPhoto © Wendy Bumgardner
Nike Free shoes mimic walking barefoot and fits like a glove. The extreme flexibility from the grooved sole allows your foot to move as it wishes, not how the shoe wishes. The shoes come with a recommended training schedule to slowly build your time in them, as your feet and body adjust to the extreme freedom. Unlike the other comfort shoes listed, these have minimal cushioning and are extremely lightweight.
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