Casual, go-anywhere styles… strappy, dressy sandals: I love them all! Because these summer staples get more wear than any other shoe at this time of year, we make sure that all of our sandals are “FootSmart”. We evaluate thousands of styles to select only great-looking sandals that deliver exceptional foot comfort. You can be sure that each one has one or more of the following features: anatomical footbeds, flexible uppers with adjustability, orthotic-friendly footbeds, superior shock absorption, superior arch-support and leg toning / strengthening benefits. Look for these foot-pleasing features from favorite brands like Easy Spirit, Merrell, SoftSpots, Naturalizer, Clarks and many more. 

Q: When Spring gets here, and the days are longer, I find myself busier than ever: running errands, Spring cleaning and socializing more with friends in the neighborhood. Are there any shoes you could recommend that will keep my feet feeling comfortable and energized all day?

A: While we may not be able to reduce the number of items on your “to do” list, we can certainly keep your feet pain-free and feeling great! The Crocs Prepair clog has an innovative, lightweight design that reduces muscular effort while walking or standing—an escape for your tired, achy legs and feet. If you’re looking for something a bit more pampering, new Privo by Clarks Silana fisherman-style shoe has a Soleassage footbed that absorbs shock and massages your foot with every step. The new KEEN Whisper fisherman sandal with a quick-draw elastic cord lacing system features a foot-cushioning EVA footbed and excellent arch support. All-day, long-lasting comfort is easy with the new Propet Sparkle lace-up sneaker that is made of washable leather. Whether you prefer a shoe that slips on or ties, you’ll find plenty of all-day comfort options—no matter where your feet take you.

 Shoes featured in this post

Spring Must-Haves: Huaraches

A warm-weather favorite for years, Huarache sandals are known for their strappy, woven leather uppers, a design that originated hundreds of years ago in Mexico. Today’s designs keep many of the traditional style elements, but our selection takes them further with the comfort and technology features that you crave. Look for gentle support, pillow-like cushioning and features like the Air Circulation System to keep feet dry and comfortable. You’ll find styles from favorite comfort brands like SoftSpots, Easy Spirit, Brand X, Clarks and more in the season’s best colors. Wherever your Spring adventures lead, Huaraches carry you with ease!

Q: I loved wedges last year… they were one of my favorites for Spring and Summer. Do you know if they will still be in season during 2010?

A: You’re in luck! Wedges are one shoe trend that never seems to go out of style, and you’ll find a great selection of comfortable and attractive wedges at FootSmart. From casual to dressy, wedges come in all styles and just as many heights! The best part? They’re versatile enough to wear with pants, skirts or dresses. New at FootSmart, the Trotters Marcy is a peep-toe slip-on with a soft leather upper and a comfortable 2” heel. You’ll think you’re walking on air with the Clarks Artisan Trophy Place. The cushiony soft footbed, with an almost weightless feel, is topped with a leather upper. The New Easy Spirit Orrell is an excellent choice for comfortable year-round wear with the leather upper and Anti-Gravity technology. A casual leather slide, Walking Cradles Lansing slide wraps your foot in breathable comfort, while the dual action footbed massages and supports with each step.

Shoes featured in this post

On-the-Go Shoes

Q: During the holidays, it seems like I’m always on my feet. If I’m not shopping, I’m decorating the house, or baking or running errands. Do you have any suggestions for comfortable, yet great-looking shoes that I can wear just about anywhere?

A: Don’t let your feet take the brunt of your holiday stress! Your holiday errands can feel pain-free in shoes that will keep your feet comfortable all day long. Consider Privo by Clarks Batten Slip-Ons, soft nubuck leather shoes with Soleassage™ footbeds that massage your tired feet with every single step. If you prefer the comfort of clogs, check out Merrell Encore Chill Stitch Clogs with sheepskin and wool fleece linings. They keep your feet toasty, while aligning your stride for maximum walking comfort. Another easy way to keep your feet from getting tired when you’re out and about is to slip on a pair of lightweight Easy Spirit Dragar Loafers. With classic styling, they look so great, you can wear them anywhere. Finally, take a look at the SoftSpots Tace Slip-Ons. This athletic-looking walking shoe feels like you’re wearing pillows on your feet! You might get tired when you’re running out for more gift wrap or hanging one more strand of lights, but your feet will feel comfortable for hours!

Shoes featured in this post: 

Q: I’m traveling this summer and want to wear sandals instead of sneakers. What are the most comfortable shoes for walking that won’t leave me with sore feet at the end of the day?

A: You wouldn’t believe how many people have this question. What you want to look for is anything that is going to give you good support underfoot and I’d have to say that Merrell is the No. 1 answer here. They have contoured footbeds and supportive constructions. You could wear Merrell shoes sightseeing on your vacation instead of sneakers and you won’t ache. They’re cute, they’re colorful and they feel great, even if you wear them all day long. If you’re the more active type or you’re going to be splashing around in creeks or the beach, sandals from Teva are perfect for you. And for dressier nights, take along Clarks Artisan Lucena Sandals. These have a nice wedge, a great fit and are really fashionable and super versatile. Go on vacation in style!

Sandals featured in this post

Q: I have bunions but I still want to wear fashionable shoes! Isn’t there something that’s comfortable yet stylish? 

A: I feel your pain and, I promise you, you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. If you need something really dressy for work, the FootSmart Stretchables Chelsea Pumps look super and feel even better. They offer great stretch with soft leather that molds around your foot. You can keep in step with this season’s gladiator sandal trend if you choose a roomy toe box like that found in the Clarks Artisan Dusky Hill Gladiator Sandals or choose huarache sandals which are also very popular. Look for soft leather that wraps gently around your foot, like those offered by SoftSpot huarache styles. For more casual, yet still fashionable looks, try the FootSmart Stretchies made with spandex and neoprene for incredible comfort. They’re available as slip-ons and Mary Janes for women and as stylish slip-ons for men. Similarly, the Merrell Pesaro Slides have a nice stretch neoprene lining that is soft against your bunion. See? You can look great and feel good at the same time.

Shoes featured in this post

FootSmart Stretchables Chelsea Pumps	Clarks Artisan Dusky Hill Gladiator Sandals
FootSmart Women's Stretchies Slip-Ons	FootSmart Women's Stretchies Mary Jane Slip-Ons
FootSmart Men's Stretchies Slip-Ons	Merrell Women’s Pesaro Slides