CDTraveler

SAS recently redid their website, and I think you can buy them online now. In a way, they had to do that because they've greatly updated their product line (for those who think SAS = Grandma's shoes, check out their site) and none of their stores are set up to carry the new pumps in all 8 colors and a million different size/width combos, etc. etc.

I agree on the SAS sandals. I have 3 pair and those are pretty much the only footwear (other than flip-flops to the pool) that I wear all summer. But some of the SAS casual shoes are equally comfortable.

KCZ

I highly recommend replacing supportless insoles with something like Sofsoles. They make different styles with differing amounts of cushioning, arch support, etc.

Travel K

Thank you all so much!! I have some shoe shopping to do! I want to get a couple pair and wear them a lot this summer so I have them broken in and to do a test run on them. I love the options though and there are so many I hadn't considered before.

gretchendz

Here's another vote for Hotter! Lot's of styles. True to size. I have never gotten a pair that wasn't comfortable.

bibbju

I recommend Air and Grace. They have memory foam insoles in all their footwear. I met the company founder Claire 2 years ago at a design show and was so impressed that I bought two pairs of shoes there and then.

I LOVE their Coachella boots so much that I have them in all 3 colours and I have never had to break them in (no rubbing at all). I also get lots of compliments about them.

https://airandgracelondon.com/

They are a UK (London) company but they ship to the US and EU, and offer a 10% discount if you sign up to their newsletter.

linsj

Thanks for the heads-up on the new website. I checked it out and was surprised to see so many new styles--and the new prices. (I haven't bought a pair in a decade since they last a long time even with heavy use, although I've been in the stores looking for something new.) But I would never order online since they don't offer free shipping and free returns. I've tried on enough different styles to know I can't wear many of them.

CDTraveler

SAS shoes aren't cheap, but I look at the price/year of wear. When a pair of sandals lasts for 8 years of heavy wear, paying $110 for them up front looks a lot better. I have a pair of their casual walking shoes that have 10+ winters of light wear and they still look almost new.

lb8001

Since my kitties were your kitties secret santas last year, I felt compelled to contribute to this . In addition to Ecco, I have some Reiker and some Gentle Souls shoes that might work really well for you. Got them both from zappos.

Tizzette

One thing to look for: take out the insole and feel if the midsole has any give. If not, you can try compensating with athletic shoe insoles. Just borrow some from your sneakers, and take them with you when you shoe shop. You will have to size up to use them, though. Another thing that really matters is a perfect fit. Your feet need to be able to spread out naturally. Get a bottle of Shoe Stretch and use it while breaking in new shoes. Also, invest in a shoe stretcher. You actually need less cushion when the fit is right. Many brands do not allow enough height in the toe, that is why your pinkie and tops of toes hurt. Mephisto allows the toe room you need and really can't be beat....cost $$$$ but last forever. Next would be Clarks Artisan line, Merrell, and Ahnu.

Hoyaheel

Which options of insoles have you tried? I've been looking at Birkenstock (my mother likes birki insoles better than her custom-made orthotics) But the So Soles are half the price of birkis. I've also been looking at Spenco.....

KCZ

I have custom orthotics but they aren't all that comfortable. I just broke in a pair of shoes and a pair of boots to take to Europe by removing their insoles and inserting the thin model of Sofsoles, then when they had stretched a bit, I replaced the thin Sofsoles with the athletic models which are thicker, squishier, and have better arch supports than the thin ones.

profnot

You need a wider size to accommodate your pinkie toes. And you need a taller shoe box to accommodate the thickness of your toes. Most shoes really skimp on this.

I have both needs so you get lots of sympathy from me! I buy shoes online (MarylandSquare.com and Zappos.com most often). When I find a pair that fits great, I buy 5 more pairs.

Try peep-toe or open-toe shoes to gain toe box room. Add sling back and you almost have a sandal but dressier.

Get rubber soles. Some people are allergic to synthetics and wonder why their feet are miserable and sometimes hot.

Try changing between two pair over the day.

If you have to woman a booth as part of the trip, order a gel mat for the floor where you will be standing most.

Good luck!

Hoyaheel

I want to do this so badly BUT when I work the trade show for my husband - we're demonstrating something that needs to roll in the booth and he won't let anything in the booth (no padding under the carpet either )

I am still deliberating between Spenco and Sofsoles but also trying to figure out which of my shoes they can work with......

MoreMilesPlease

Look at Alegria brand. I love these. If you have wide feet or high instep these are amazing. I have a nueroma on my left foot, small, wide feet with high insteps. These have become about the only shoes I can wear all day without a problem. I also recommend wearing runner compression socks to help the feet/calf. Really makes a difference.

lettezilla

I've noticed that if I wear shoes 2-3 days in a row without giving them a day off to air out and dry, I get blisters and weird rubbing even with shoes that are normally fine. So I'd suggest bringing an extra pair so you can alternate, giving each time to breathe!