Recommendations Requested: Good men's shoes for work and walking
 

Like most business travellers, I like to pack as light as possible for trips. I try and only bring one pair of shoes when I fly. I used to wear just regular black leather business shoes, but earlier in the year I had a problem with Metatarsalgia, which is basically a pain in the ball of your foot brought on by over-use. One of the issues my doctor said was because I was doing so much walking in my business shoes that offer little in the way of arch support.

I am now looking for a new pair of shoes. I would like something that are good for walking in, but also can pass in a business environment. I have tried just outfitting regular leather shoes with sports insoles, but it isn't great support and I still get foot pain that way.

Any recommendations? I have seen Mephisto described as the finest walking shoe, but they are also really expensive so I'd like to hear some experience with them first. Any other suggestions?

Thanks,
Greg

I recommend taking a look at ECCO. They're not inexpensive, but they're definitely a great value for what you get. Lightweight, comfortable, look good with anything from jeans to a suit.

I tried some Mehisto's and was underwhelmed given the price. I've been a long-time Rockport wearer and have been very happy. Dansko is starting to make more men's shoes and I know many women that rave about the shoes -- I may give those a shot.

I'm not familiar with that condition but if your problem persists you may wand to ask your doc whether it would be worthwhile to get fitted for custom orthotics.

I like Rockport. They offer a range of dressiness, but all the pairs I've had have been very comfortable for walking in. And they're cheaper than the other brands mentioned so far, although maybe a little less stylish.

I second Ecco. Best-looking comfortable shoes that pass for dress.

Ecco and Rockport are good. I also love my Timberland waterproof oxfords, which are pretty versatile as well (and darn comfortable).

I bought a pair of Eccos in Tallin, I don't think they're that comfy. And actually they were ugly too. They were neither European nor American cool.

You know what I've never had a pair of Rockports, BUT I have been fooled a handful of times at Nordstrom at how good/trendy they can look. But I still wouldn't buy something that my dad wears...!

>I would like something that are good for walking in, but also can pass in a business environment.

I'm fond of Timberland:

http://www.timberland.com/

Again, not cheap, but meet your requirements.

Cheers,
Geoff Glave
Vancouver, Canada

Definitely Ecco. ^

I got a pair of ECCO 'SEAWALKER TIE' this spring, and wore them constantly on my trips to Munich, Prague and Vienna this summer, and again to Italy this fall. I loved them - very comfortable, and look great with either jeans or casual wear (Dockers, etc). I did buy a pair of Dr. Sholl's 'jell' insoles to put in them, and it was like walking on clouds!!!

Another vote for Timberland. ^

They are incredibly comfortable and quite durable. Got a pair on a good deal at the Timberland outlet and have walked probably a thousand miles in them. I don't understand why they're so comfortable. There's no obvious reason for it. But there you have it. Very happy feet. ^

That is what the advertisements say, but reality is not that. I have had two pairs of Mephisto's, and I have to say that Rockports are much more comfortable. Mephisto's comfort, durability and craftsmanship do not warrant the price. And, the Mephisto styles that USA stores carry are not the most stylish; Mephisto stores in France carry many more styles. So, go for Rockport.

Most recent pair of Rockports I bought don't set off metal detectors, although a bunch of airports still require me to take them off. Sold on Rockports which are pretty cheap at Rockport outlet stores (where if there isn't a huge discount currently active, your AAA card will usually get you one).

I like Cole-Haan's

I have both ECCO and Rockport but the high-end Rockport called I-Travel. They have an excellent arch support and good walking sole. I don't know how broadly available they are but worth checking out on their website.

Ironically I got the I-Travel shoes for free when I joined Ameniti. They are probably the most used "free" product I have ever received.
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