I need shoes for feet that hate shoes!

[Arianwen1174]

I hate wearing shoes and avoid it as much as I can. I feel that barefoot is best but sometimes that's just not practical. Not only can I not stand wearing shoes, my feet simply don't do well with most of them. I also have fibromyalgia and virtually every shoe I've tried eventually makes my feet ache way more than going barefoot might, especially when standing. Anything confining is out, my feet need to spread out. I also can't stand my feet being hot and that's another issue with more confining shoes. I know this is a lot to ask, but there must be a shoe for me. I've considered having these made because I'm such a barefoot gal (plus they're local to me and I love that ). I've also considered Keens and have looked a bit online at some others. As awesome as a pair of Vibrams would be for my feet, I can't stand the design, so those are out. Show me shoes for feet that hate shoes! BTW, I'm in Oregon and don't have to worry about terribly cold temps, and am not too concerned about my feet getting wet in the right shoes.

[coop_mom]

I saw the title of your post and immediately clicked so I could recommend Keens! But I see you have thought of them already

I own a few pairs of Keens and wear them most of the time during the milder times of year. I *love* them

Many of their styles have a pretty boxy toe and I find them very comfortable.

Good luck with your search!

--k

[mumkimum]

Those grown-up soft shoes look really cool.

I've seen yoga sandals that are similar to the vibrams with less of the 'weird look' to them. Like this. You could consider that.

I personally do earth shoes and birkenstocks - the earth shoes are less tiring on my feet so I'd recommend those more than the birks (though I wear those more often - they're nice and wide - usually do sandals, would love a pair of clogs). They are the sort of thing you'd want to try out first, imo - not everyone likes the way earth shoes feel but they're great for lots of standing/walking.

[lifeguard]

birks

[rhiOrion]

i have a friend who swaers by danskos for their arch support

[Drummer's Wife]

I have these Keens that I LOVE. I hate shoes, as well, and really dislike any that are confining or tight - I don't ever wear tennis shoes, for example.

Anyhow, my sandals are super comfy - I wear them every day. Never had any pain, even when walking amusment parks, hiking, etc.

[Arianwen1174]

Thanks, folks! Yep, definitely looking at Keens, especially because they look like they'd last well. I wore Birks for almost 10 years in the past but gave them up because I'm so hard on them and couldn't afford to keep having them resoled and even recorked more often than usual. I'm still considering them, just would have to make sure to have money in the budget for upkeep. The Earth shoes look good! I really like this one. I'll have to see if I can find a local store that sells them so I can try some on. The hunt is on! I have awhile because my birthday is 2 months and I want to put birthday money towards shoes.

[Arianwen1174]

LOL, rhiOrion and Drummer'sWife, you snuck your replies in while I was replying to the others. Thanks for more recs! I think right now it's between Keens and having the Soft Star shoes made. I could wear the Keens even in the winter here if I get a few pairs of soft wool socks to keep my feet dryer and warmer.

[texaspeach]

mephisto makes a really good shoe. the are pricey but you can usually find them for a good deal at the walking co end of season sale.

[texmati]

i heart my softspots.