Orthopedic shoes carry a reputation of helping correct foot
disorders but in a very unattractive way. That was true when
orthopedic shoes came on the scene in 1906 until 1990.
Orthopedic shoes were not made to look good. Their only purpose
was to correct any abnormality of the feet that were caused by
medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Children were
fitted with orthopedic shoes to correct certain birth defects
such as a club foot, or metatarsus varus (pigeon toe).
The days of ugly orthopedic shoes are long gone. Orthotic shoes
are available in a wide range of styles and colors while
providing support and comfort. You will find wide fitting
orthopedic shoes in specialty shoe stores or on the Web.
Orthopedic lifts help to end pain in the heel, knee, back, and
legs by elevating the foot by 4 degrees in the rear. Orthopedic
shoes are also used to improve posture.
There are many shoe companies that specialize in comfortable
shoes that promote good foot health and relieve pain. We will
examine five companies and their products.
Kickers
This shoe brand was created 40 years ago for the “jeans”
generation. Kickers have a line of shoes for men, women, and
children. You can have a customized pair of shoes within 15
days. Customized shoes provide better fit and support.
Dr Martens
This shoe company began in 1947 when a German army doctor, Klaus
Martens, designed a more comfortable boot than the army issue he
wore when he injured his ankle. His boot had air-padded soles.
The original Dr Martens are being manufactured again and are
sold on the company’s website.
Dansko
Dansko shoes started out as a Danish clog. A husband and wife
team discovered the clog, fell in love with it instantly, and
wore it constantly for 2 years and found it to be virtually
indestructible. This brand offers comfortable shoes for
professionals in clogs, boots, and sandals for women, men, and
children.
Clarks
Englishman Cyrus Clark began the shoe line sewing sheepskin
slippers on a first generation Singer sewing machine. This began
a family-owned shoe manufacturing company that has made
comfortable shoes for 179 years.
Alpro
This line is made in Germany and is famous for the foam they use
in their shoes and for their molded soles.
This fashionable line of footwear provides exceptional comfort
and superb functionality. Professionals enjoy wearing Alpro
shoes during work hours and Alpro mules in leisure time.