2019 Footwear Trends for Men

Despite popular belief, men care just as much about fashion as women, especially when it comes to footwear. Over the years, there are fashion trends that come and go which is why it’s important to know what’s in and what’s not. Studies have shown that typical men between the ages of 20 and 30 spend between $500 and $600 on shoes annually. This is surprisingly more than most women spend on their footwear. What men wear on their feet plays an essential role in which every outfit they wear and can easily make or break their look. Here is a list of the current footwear styles for men. Some of these are new trends, while others never left.

Black Dress Shoes

The black dress shoe is a timeless classic that will provide you with a debonair feeling of sophistication. They will make you look and feel like a million bucks. Oftentimes, a person has trouble deciding if they should go with brown or black. The rule of thumb is, when in doubt, choose black. Black complements all dress attire.

Cowboy Boots

John Wayne wasn’t the only man who wore cowboy boots, which have recently seen a comeback. Every year or so, we see cowboy boots make a comeback. They are both fashionable and functional. Cowboy boots are rich in history and showcase a masculine blend of Americana and style. Cowboy boots, such as Ariat mens square toe cowboy boots, provide versatility and comfort, which can be easily paired with simple clothing or dress attire.

Converse Style Sneakers

People have been wearing Converse-style sneakers for more than 100 years, which was actually the first rubber shoe to be manufactured and continues to be adored by millions of people around the world. If you’re ever confused about what to wear, you should simply throw on a pair of Converse-style sneakers, which are comfortable, affordable, and easily identifiable.

Retro Nike-Style Sneakers

Your wardrobe isn’t complete without a pair of retro-style sneakers which is why you need a pair of old-school Nikes. There are a wide array of different retro-style and vintage-inspired sneakers which provide a timeless look that is impossible to recreate. Sneakers provide functionality and style; they have become a representation of the modern man. There is little that can separate a man from a good pair of sneakers. There is often a personal significance behind the shoe that cannot be replicated.

Leather Boots 

There is nothing a man loves more than a nice pair of leather boots, which add height, style, and durability. If conditioned properly, a good pair of leather boots can end up lasting for years. A study conducted by GQ Magazine has shown that most women love a man in leather boots, which is typically what they look for on a first date. They provide functionality and are made to be durable, which can typically withstand rain and snow. Rather it’s an ankle-high, lace-up, or military boot, they’ll provide you with an edgy, yet masculine look which can be worn for years.

Loafers

Loafers, which originated in Scandinavia, have become a staple in almost every man’s wardrobe. A pair of beige or brown loafers can complement a wide range of palettes, from casual to formal, which have become a great go-to shoe for any situation. There are many different varieties of loafers, including dress shoes and slip-on’s, which provides a comfortable look that can be worn year-round.

White Low Top Trainers

If you’re a fan of white sneakers, you should consider purchasing a pair of white low top trainers. Oftentimes, men are afraid to wear white, because white stains and shows dirt easily, but a pair of white low top trainers can be worn with almost any outfit. It will provide you will a minimalist, yet stylish look, which will easily complement your summer wardrobe.

Suede

Suede shoes aren’t a look that every man can pull off, which is a leather material often used to make belts and handbags. When a person imagines wearing suede shoes, the first thing to come to mind is more than likely Elvis Presley, but suede also can be extremely versatile and stylish if worn properly. Suede has seen a massive comeback this season, which includes jackets, pants, and even shoes. A pair of tan suede chukkas will definitely enhance your wardrobe.

ActiveWear for being Outdoors/Winter Elements #ActiveWear #GetActive

If you are an active family who likes to get outdoors no matter what the weather, we have some great options for you to check out this season.

Brooks Running, a favorite of ours, has recently put out the “Dash Hoodie”, which I am completely in love with. It has become a go to for me, one of those tops you reach for every time it is out of the washing machine. So soft (much softer then I’m used to in running gear and feather light) it is also warm and wicks moisture quickly. The material is breathable, and machine washable and dryer safe. It has a loose but flattering fit. I personally prefer to hand it to dry, I think it will last longer that way, but personal preference. It has thumb holes on the cuffs, and there is a storage pocket over the left hand that can hold your key, cash, or whatever your prefer. The hood is perfect for cooler weather, so you can use it until you get too warm on your run, then toss it off. Prices vary depending on what color you order (some of them are on sale), get yours at https://www.brooksrunning.com

running gear

Trek specializes in biking, bikes, and bike gear, and also has apparel for all sorts of active lifestyles. I’m currently loving the “Bontrager Vella Women’s Long Sleeve Thermal Cycling Jersey”, which is quite a mouthful. It’s a half zip, long sleeve collared top that is soft, lightweight, (are you seeing a theme here? Yes, really love soft workout gear) wicking, ventilated and offers the warmth you need with the comfort you want. It is very form fitting, really hugging your body. If you like streamlined gear, this is the top you will wear again and again. It also has reflective elements so that you can wear it day or night with added safety. Washing machine safe, and again, I’d hang to dry, but it dries very quickly.  $89.99

active wear

Keep the hair out of your face and your ears warm with the “Bontrager Vella Women’s Thermal Headband”, which you can get to match your jersey in color if you’d like. It’s warm (but not suffocating) and stays put when you head out.  It’s thin, so it can be worn under your helmet comfortably on a ride. Wash and wear. (I hang to dry.) $16.99

Get the gear at https://www.trekbikes.com

active wear

SAS shoes (this stands for San Antonio Shoemakers) looks to bridge the gap between comfort and style. These are orthopedic shoes, but not the ones that you are thinking of. When I think orthopedic shoes, I admit I think of those giant, black, clunky and awful things your grandparents would wear. SAS make shoes that are comfortable to wear, that offer support, but that are fun and funky as well. They make shoes for both men and women, from everyday sneakers to sandals and shoes for elegant occasions. Options are not few in number, and there is every color of the rainbow to choose from.  We took these out to two 5K’s, as well as regular, random everyday use (like hanging a swing, messing around with the kids, etc) and can tell you honestly that they hold up extremely well, and do offer fantastic support and comfort.

orthopedic shoes

Most of these shoes come with patented” SAS Comfort Outsole™, SteadyTrac Midsole, and Arcfit™ heel stabilizer work together to provide you maximum firm but gentle support (as well as the)  Tripad® comfort system (which) adds additional support to the three main pressure points of the foot, while SAS CoolSTEP™ foot bed and a leather and mesh upper make for a light design with no heat build up underfoot”. (*As per the company)

Head to https://www.sasshoes.com to choose the shoes that speak to you.

comfortable sneakers

 

 

Walking In A Winter Wonderland

The weather has been all over the place this winter, and that means so has your wardrobe been. Shoes are the hardest part to figure out- no one likes wet, cold, uncomfortable feet- that makes for a long day. We are loving this footwear, and we thing you will, too.

winter shoes for men

 

Waldlaufer has a huge variety of women’s shoes- but did you know they offer mens, as well? It’s a great time to check them out. We have been wearing the Men’s Jack Hayo Waterproof Oxford Schiefer shoes for about two months now, and using them for everything from daily wear to hiking and even to the gym a few times- they remain sturdy, easy to wear for long days out and about, supportive, and they do keep your feet dry.  They are a bit heavier then your average shoe, but they are also pretty rugged since they offer so much protection.  This ankle high waterproof boot will protect your feet all winter long- and beyond.  You won’t be leaving these in your closet when the season changes.  Since it is made with a waterproof membrane, it prevents moisture from entering the shoe.  The soles have great traction and durability as well as a supportive footbed. Get yours at https://www.waldlaufer.com for $190.

Perfect for winter (or any season but summer, I’d say) are the water-resistant and insanely comfortable new Luana ankle boots from Arcopedico.  These have very fast become my favorite boots, and perhaps my favorite shoes in general. So soft, so comfortable- and ethical as well. Made entirely of vegan materials (that never hurts, a “good for the environment” choice) they are easy to pair with almost any outfit, or to dress up and dress down.  These look like suede, but are actually Lytech with a self-adjusting side elastic for a super comfortable fit. With rounded toes and a slight wedge heel, these are actually machine washable as well. Really. Three colors available, Black, Brown, or Burgundy. Get yours for $105 at http://arcopedicousa.com

For something a little different then boots yet still transitional, check out the Stripe ballerina type flat. With a satin and cotton fabric upper, a rounded toe, rubber sole, and it’s lighter than air weight, this is a shoe you can live in once the weather warms up (and if you get someplace warmer for your vacation!) $115, available in three striped color options- Blue/White, Beige/White, or Black/White.

The Yulia Bootie is easy on, easy to wear, and you won’t want to take them off- by Beartraps. This bootie is fun to wear with skirts or pants, and is lightweight as well as comfortable. Casual and fun, it has a low heel and slight ruching on the top. Cute details at the strap detailing is eye-catching and adds interest. Easy to zip on and off from the side, you will find yourself wearing these constantly. Available in three colors- black, grey, and mushroom, for $80- but on sale now for $50, go take a look! https://www.footwearunlimited.com

Perfect for this time of year, but great year round (because when is mud not a thing, after all) the Detour BUGrip GTX are the perfect hiking or running sneaker- no slipping, super supportive, and no laces.  Instead of laces, these tighten up with a Boa® Closure System, which “provides custom comfort with smooth, even closure and no pressure points”. It’s actually pretty cool- you turn the little knob like circle on the tongue of the shoe, and it clicks until you reach the setting you like. Pull it up to release. Very neat. The  waterproof GORE-TEX® membrane keeps the snow, slush, water, mud, etc out and your feet dry- what’s not to love about that. The carbide studded, BUGrip outsole is great for ice and snow, though has no issues on pavement, wood floors, or anything else we’ve tired them out on- although people WILL hear you coming, they are not sneaking up shoes, with their “crunching” steps. No, they will not scratch anything- they just add traction.  Grab yours at https://us-shop.icebug.com/ for $230.

Headed out into the great outdoors? In this weather Just kidding- why not? Just bring your Metro2 Classic BUGrip, these are the hiking boots you won’t want to take off. Comfortable, keeping your feet warm and dry, and like all Icebugs, slip resistant with carbide studded, BUGrip outsoles. Soft “collar” around the ankles keeps you comfortable as you trek, just pull them on and zip them up. Soft, oily nubuck on the outside, fleece lined, with supportive insoles, they will keep your feet warm in temperatures up to -4 (Fahrenheit).  Let me tell you- these are nice. You are going to love them. Pick them up at https://us-shop.icebug.com/ for $200.

 

How to choose the best Orthopedic Shoe

If your day ends when you are tired, and your feet are aching, there are chances all these problems are coming from your shoes. When you have shoes that are not fitting well on your feet, you will end up with heel pain, hammertoes, bunions, back problems, and calluses. You will prevent foot pain if you use the right shoes. It is only a reputable dealer that understands the constituents of a good shoe that will possess it in the store. It is vital for both feet to have the right measurements from the toes, ball of the foot, and the shape of the foot.

As you continue aging, you need better heel fit and more toe room to ensure comfort and stability. A shoe is not supposed to hurt you, if it does, then it is not the right one for you. The fact remains that feet change with time. Arches continue to get weak, causing the toes to elongate. The room in the shoe needs to be evenly distributed to avoid stress. You can get brands that fit in many sizes and widths per style. However, you will find stores many having selected sizes and styles they can sell most.

Genuine orthotic shoes come with a firmness design in the arch, cushion and heel support to contour the feet, and promote comfort and proper balance. Authentic shoes will give you more stability and a more sure foot. Putting on the right pair of shoes will help the whole of your body, and not just the feet. The hips, knees, ankles, and back depends on the proper foundation that comes from stable shoes.

As a matter of fact, people will benefit from the additional stability that comes from their shoes regardless of whether they are pre-molded or custom orthotics. They also provide excellent support by adding orthotics that may or may not be of use. Each foot can be unique from the other. Many individuals who have comfort, stability and flat fee issues will benefit from orthotics as they offer a better-contoured footbed. An orthotic shop serves well it customers by having different proper fitting shoes.

What do you look for in the shoe while buying?

The recurring theme in the field of orthopedic shoes is purchasing the right shoe as it is a sound investment. The search needs to start with your own feet and what is in your closet. You need to stand barefoot on cardboard or paper to ascertain the actual shape of the foot. You can take all the shoes from your closet one by one and fit them on the drawing. It is most probable that the shoe will comfortably fit on the drawing. Shoes that cause pain are most likely heels for women and narrow and short for men.

Basically, you will not put on shoes that are too tight, too small, or too high. If you possess these kinds of shoes, you will have to put them on as infrequently as possible to reduce the risk of foot problems and pain. The less often you put on non-fitting shoes, the better for your health. It is crucial to possess several pairs of shoes so that so that you use low-heeled and comfortable pumps at casual gatherings and the office, and save the fancy, high-heeled ones for dressy events.

Types of orthotics

While various orthotic devices range from silicon tabs to inlays to heel caps, the most common orthotic types for athletes are insoles. While they are similar to insoles which come to the regular shoes, orthotic insoles feature a custom design that will give your feet support when needed.

  1. Custom Made Easy

You can find this automated system at many drug and grocery stores all over. It allows you to step on its mapping unit to get a recommendation for the right orthotic type that will give your foot the best results. The kiosks use the help of sensors to pick your foot shape including foot length, pressure point, and arch type. It will take a few minutes, and you will have orthotics inserts that will fit your feet perfectly.

  1. Hard to Soft

Several over-the-counter orthotics have soft materials that go flat immediately you step on them. You need to avoid these shoes. You need to go for the material that combines hard plastic or vinyl polymer which offers rigid support under the foot. You can also opt for the moldable insole option which blends with both custom-fit and OTC orthotics. These shoes allow you to mold the shape of your foot by use of heat treatment. The problem with the moldable orthotics is that you do not get proper implants that will make your insoles to be virtually useless.

Top health benefits of orthopedic shoes

Nowadays, finding orthopedic shoes is quite easy for enhancing the health of your shoes. There many valuable health benefits that you will get when you buy these shoes. They include:-

  1. They provide great support

These shoes have a design that will cater for your arches, help realign your foot, and cushion your heels. You can get frustrating problems like plantar fasciitis and flat foot without proper realignment and support of these shoes.

  1. Wearing these shoes encourages blood flow

Orthopedic shoes are vital for people who suffer from diabetic nerve pain. Those people suffering from diabetic neuropathy can also support their arch with great comfort. Diabetic neuropathy can cause you not to feel pain in your feet. Putting on orthopedics shoes will take your foot to a functional and healthy environment. These shoes can save diabetic people from losing their feet.

  1. Orthopedics cost less than foot surgery

Ignoring taking care of your feet will become costly in the long run. Putting on these shoes when you have foot problems can prevent you from going for a surgery that is eminent. These shoes will act as a preventive feature for the health of your feet.

  1. You can correct foot problems by use of these shoes

Since these shoes can help preserve arches and realign feet, the problems that you have been experiencing will be history. Most foot problems come as a result of wearing wrong shoes.

pediped® Reveals Limited Edition Web-Exclusive Styles @pedipedfootwear

baby shoes

Award-winning children’s footwear brand pediped® has just launched launching their Limited Edition style. You can purchase these limited styles on their website at www.pediped.com/limitededition.aspx

The Charlie Herringbone and Faith Snake limited edition Originals® baby shoes have a small run of 72 pairs each. Each pair in this exclusive series will come with an individually signed and hand numbered card.

Dressed in a brown and tan herringbone pattern with chocolate leather accents, Charlie is sure to bring a sophisticated and classic style to any baby’s wardrobe. Wrapped in sparkly and colorful faux snakeskin with a large black velvet bow accent, Faith exudes major chic attitude and is here to grab all the attention.

Don’t miss the opportunity to own one of these Limited Edition styles! The 144 pairs are expected to sell-out quickly so keep an eye on the pediped® Limited Edition webpage to make sure you grab your pair.

About pediped®
Exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort, and distinctive styling have made the award-winning company the fastest growing children’s footwear brand in the United States. pediped® footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for the promotion of healthy foot development, and preeminent orthopedic medical professionals, Dr. Mininder S. Kocher and Dr. Thomas W. Vorderer, deem pediped® shoes an excellent choice for parents/caregivers who want their children’s feet to develop naturally and healthily. pediped® has received numerous industry awards and accolades including recognition from Earnshaw’s, the premier media resource serving the children’s market. In 2015 pediped® was recognized by the Footwear Industry Awards as the Children’s Footwear Brand of the Year and Best Children’s Shoes by Prima Baby Magazine. In 2016 pediped received a National Parenting Product Award, the Cribsie Awards honored pediped with Best Toddler Kicks, Earnshaw’s recognized pediped® with an Earnie Award for Best Footwear, and pediped received a reader’s choice award for Best Footwear from Baby & Children’s Product News.

pediped® is sold in over 750 stores worldwide with an offering of more than 150 designs for boys and girls between its three lines, Originals®, Grip ‘n’ Go™ and Flex®. The award-winning footwear is available in EU sizes 17 to 38 (US newborn to 6 Youth). For more information, visit www.pediped.com or call 1-702-567-0311. LIKE on Facebook at /pedipedfootwear and follow on Twitter and Instagram @pedipedfootwear.

WIN Adorable NAOT Shoes or Boots

With the weather outside quite frightening- and good grief, it’s freezing!- you want shoes that are warm and comfortable, but that doesn’t mean you don’t want to look cute as well.   NAOT makes some adorable shoes, boots, and warm-weather-wear like sandals ( I know, can you even remember warm weather right now?) for anything Mother Nature might throw your way, or what climate you might happen to live in or travel to.

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I’ve recently been sent the NAOT VISTOSO, and I have to say I really like them.  Here is what I had to say from my review-

“When you are ready to head indoors, and need something a little less “outdoorsy” but still ready for winter festivities, the NAOT VISTOSO will be your go to boot. Zipping up the side, this ankle boot is too cute with a little bow across it (ready for the holidays!) It is padded for extra comfort, and has a memory foam footbed. As you wear it, the bottom bed and microfiber molds to your foot, making it more and more comfortable as you go along. The heel is sturdy, the sole is flexible, and you won’t feel like you are doing a balancing act all evening. These are boots you won’t feel the need to kick off quickly. Get them at http://naot.com or Amazon for about $200.”

Want to get a pair of your own?  I suggest you do, right away.  You can also enter to win a pair here, your options should you win are listed below-

http://www.simonsshoes.com/products/naot-vistoso

Please feel free to enter using the RC form below.  A winner will be chosen at random on Feb. 17, 2016.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

When It Cools Down, These Will Warm You Up

Now that the weather outside has gotten a bit frightful, we will need to bundle up a little more.  But that doesn’t necessarily mean adding bulk or ugly, clodding boots- check out these lovely layers from some of our favorite brands (that last longer then a season, too!)

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When it’s cold enough to need a little more then just a shirt, check out the Craghoppers ‘Swainby’ half zip fleece for the man and teenager boys in your life.  Classic, comfortable, and nearly impossible to stain in my own personal experience (really, my guy has not been successful yet, and I could swear he’s trying), it also washes well without all the ugly pilling that some fleece get. Besides it’s good looks and great function, it’s really very warm and comfortable.  My son loves it because it’s soft (and it retains it’s softness after repeated washings), has a large pocket, and easy to pair with anything. It is made with a cotton fleece blend, and has insulating technology built in. With it’s high collar that can be folded down or left up for additional warmth, and elasticated cuffs and hem, it’s wearer keeps extra body heat in. Too warm?  No worries- just undo the half front zip for some air.  Get yours for $60 at http://www.us.craghoppers.com

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When you need a little more then a sweatshirt, put on the Skipton Jacket by Craghoppers.  Water resistant, so good for those days that are snowy or a bit rainy, it’s also soft, super insulated, and nowhere near as thick as you would think it needs to be.  It’s thin- as thin as your spring jacket- but it’s been doing the husband good in 3o degree weather with no complaints to be had.  Not only is it lightweight, but it’s also made of soft wool and has a satiny-smooth lining that feels great next to your skin.  It’s very smart-looking, great for work or going out, a compliment to any outfit.  It has both a zipper and buttons, and you can use either one or both together for added wind protection. To top it off (quite literally) is an attached hood.  There are two functioning side pockets, big enough for your hands, a pair of gloves, your keys, or a cell phone- yes, they really do function.  Get yours for about $180 at sites like http://www.backcountry.com/

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When it’s time to head into the snow, no one wants wet, cold feet.  The Icebug Diana BUGrip boots are amazing in cold, wet, icy weather- not only are they nice to look at, but they really do help keep a grip on the ground. Besides keeping your feet warm and dry (and stylish!), the half-calf high boot is good for tromping about on snowy days and keeping your pants dry, too. Insulated with soft fleece, they feel good on as well as looking good. Easy to put on, they zip up with no issues as well as have a front lace for adjustment.  No wasted time or aggravation fiddling and fussing. The BUGrip outsole helps give traction in winter weather conditions- and it really works.  You can even hear it softly sticking as you walk, which is both amusing and reassuring. Get yours at http://icebug.com/us/ or at stores like Amazon for about $200.

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Still have cold feet?  Check out the St. Moritz Lite 200 I WP- a mouthful, but a cute, cute boot. These are insulated, water resistant, weatherproof, and have a cute faux fur top.  They come in black, brown, and gray, so choose your favorite color.  Each has a fleece lining that will keep your feet warm as you stomp through the snow. If you work up a sweat, not to worry- these are odor resistant as well, so you will not need to leave your boots outside the door like some people (you know who you are!) With Thinsulate insulation built in, you know you will stay warm, even when the temperature drops. The adorable St. Moritz will have everyone asking where you got them.  You can pick them up at http://us.hi-tec.com for about $100, by the way.

naot

When you are ready to head indoors, and need something a little less “outdoorsy” but still ready for winter festivities, the NAOT VISTOSO will be your go to boot. Zipping up the side, this ankle boot is too cute with a little bow across it (ready for the holidays!) It is padded for extra comfort, and has a memory foam footbed. As you wear it, the bottom bed and microfiber molds to your foot, making it more and more comfortable as you go along. The heel is sturdy, the sole is flexible, and you won’t feel like you are doing a balancing act all evening. These are boots you won’t feel the need to kick off quickly. Get them at http://naot.com or Amazon for about $200.

Disclosure- I received the above in order to facilitate this review.  All opinions are my own and honest.  For more, see “I Disclose”.

Pediped Kids Sandals Review and GIVEAWAY

Disclosure- I received the below in order to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own and honest. Please see “Disclose” tab for more info.

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With summer here, you know that I was looking for the easiest, most comfortable shoes for my little dude and our summer fun and travels. He’s not big on laces, so we are loving the Flex Canyon.

About Pediped:

Pediped’s motto is: Pediped, next best thing to bare feet.

These shoes are made with exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort, and distinctive styling. These shoes are award winning, and they are the fastest growing children’s footwear brand in the United States.

Awards:

  • American Pdiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for promotion of heathy foot development
  • Orthopedic Medical Professionals deem pediped shoes an excellent choice for parents/caregivers who want their children’s feet to develop naturally and healthily.
  • Earnshaw’s Earnie Award for Company of the Year and Best Footwear
  • In 2012, Earnie Award for Company for good

Pediped is sold in over 3,000 stores in the United States and 40 countries worldwide with an offering of more than 130 designs for boys and girls in their three lines.

  • Originals: 0-24 months

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