Yet another new pair of sneakers

I decided to give Asics a run!

As I wrote in my last post on sneakers, I was still on the hunt for a second pair, looking for a pair that offered the cushioning and support my feet needed, especially as I train for longer runs.

I started my  running journey a few months ago, just barely making it through a mile. I completed my first race, a 4 miler on New Years, and now am working my way up to a 10k.

Crossing the finish line for my first race in my Saucony Grid Shadow Genesis Running shoes

The Saucony sneakers I own have the support I need and are super light weight. I am happy with the amount of cushioning but wondered if I would do better on longer runs with more.

After recommendations from friends, I decided to try Asics, as I heard their gel cushioning was great.

 I choose to order online through Famous Footwear because they had a wide selection and even though some pairs weren't discounted, you still got their rewards.

I ordered a few pairs, and decided to keep the Gel Cumulus 17, which I paid $90 for.

The quest for new sneakers

Finally found sneakers! Nike and Mizuno in @rackroomshoes More info to come on throughthesole.blogspot.com @nike @mizunorunning #sneakers #shoes #shoeshopping #shopping

A photo posted by Through the Sole: A Shoe Blog (@throughthesole) on Mar 16, 2015 at 7:37am PDT

I recently read in the New York Times that after years of sneaker manufacturers trying to create shoes that imitate running barefoot the pendulum had swung the other way, and the new trend in running shoes was maximum cushioning, so-called maximalist shoes.  These sneakers are designed with extra cushioningthat some believe helps to prevent injuries. However, the scientific jury is still undecided.

Given the new trend, I thought I would be in good shape looking for sneakers. I deal with heal pain and tend to be hard on shoes, so I prefer cushioning and support in my sneakers.

My current sneakers are 3 years old and after being in them all day, my feet hurt. They were perfect, unfortunately, I just wore them out.

My old sneakers, the Nike Zoom Vomero +5 which after over 3 years were worn out

Five stores and dozens of pairs later, I was stumped. I had tried 3 different brands and various styles but couldn't find the right amount of cushioning and the right fit.

Despite the growing trend towards more cushioning, many brands were still focused on light weight barefoot type sneakers.

Finally, I tried a new shoe store for me, Rack Room Shoes. They had a large selection of various brand, most at a discount, and were even having a buy one get one half off (bogo) sale.

Dozens more pairs later, I had two winners.

Mizuno Wave Prophecy 3

I originally didn't want to try on Mizuno cause I was unfamiliar with the Japanese sporting good company and honestly, they did not look so nice. However, I was intrigued by the cutouts on the bottom and decided to give them a spin. I'm glad I did. From the front to the heel, they were ultra cushioned making me feel as if I was walking on pillows.

This shoe is designed for heel to toe cushioning that does not weigh you down. According to Mizuno, it is for high mileage runners with a neutral gait.

The Mizuno Wave Prophecy 3 is unfortunately discontinued but still available from many stores. It lists for $209.99, which I know is quite pricey, but you get ultra cushioning. The good news is you can also get them at a discount, like I did. Rack Room Shoes was $109 plus the bogo.

If you are having trouble finding them, the latest version, the Mizuno Wave Prophecy 4 is also now available.

New, free shoes with rewards points

You've heard of using miles to get free plane tickets or using credit card points to get money back, but how about earning free shoes?

I recently headed to Famous Footwear to return shoes that unfortunately did not fit right. While there I couldn't resist peeking at the shoes they had in stock, especially since clearance was buy on get one 50 percent off.

In my size, I saw black flats with buckles by Dr. Scholls. I had owned the same shoes in metallic silver and after some time wore them out. They were the perfect fit and comfortable.

Now I needed another pair. I found red pointy-toed heels by Life Stride that were a lower heel and padded, making them comfortable. The style was classic, if also a bit safe. They were marked $10, so I figured for $5, how could I go wrong?

Shoe Inserts for Comfort

Some times a shoe insert, such as a insole or a heel grip, can make the difference between comfort and pain. Recently, I have found thick and thin insoles, and heel grips that have saved my feet.

Dr. Scholl's for Her 16 Hour Insoles

I love Dr. Scholl's shoes, especially the Jute and June styles that have these great foam insoles. The Dr. Scholl's for Her 16 Hour Comfort Insoles give me the same feel and can go in many pairs of shoes. While I like this line of Dr. Scholl's shoes, they are on the casual side and limited. These insoles give me the same sensation, but can go in many shoes. I especially like them in boots, including Ugg type boots and my slippers.

These Dr. Scholl's flats from TJ Maxx are super comfortable due to a foam insole.

Boot Shopping at Marshalls and Famous Footwear

#fabfound #myvictory



I live in boots when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, after a season, I often find my boots get pretty dead, so each season I am on the hunt for new comfortable and stylish boots.

This year I was looking for flat booties and flat tall boots. My job often requires many hours on my feet, so I want to be comfortable and stylish.

I hit up two of my favorite discounters, Marshalls and Famous Footwear and walking away with 3 pairs of boots.

Marshalls:

I picked up these Nine West fringe booties in Marshalls for $25.

As I previously shared, Marshalls is a great place to find boots.

Most booties have high heels, which are very difficult to walk in. These are nice and flat. The fringe adds a fun touch. They are more on the casual side, but with the right outfit can be work appropriate, depending on how formal your office is. These booties work great with pants or work well to dress down skirts and dresses. The color works with black and brown.

I have been wearing them a ton as a fall transitional shoe. However, I do wish they have more padding. My feet tend to become tired by the end of the day. I have been adding very thin insoles to help.

As I have revealed before, I often shop in the kids section for boots. Its a great way to get stylish boots from great companies for less. These Nine West boots are kids. The size 4 is a size 6 womens'. Great tip for those of us with small feet!

The difficulty with Marshalls is that selection is sometimes limited, lacking a full range of sizes. Items are often from the season before. However, the thrill of a find for a steal is amazing!

Famous Footwear:

Famous Footwear has a much larger shoe selection than Marshalls. Unlike Marshalls, you can also shop online. If you find a shoe in store that they don't have in your size, be sure to check online.The shoes are also usually same season. The downside is they offer less of a discount. Be sure to join their rewards club to earn points towards rewards certificates (free shoes!) and other coupons.

Hurricane Sandy: Unfortunately More than Shoes Were Destroyed

This was the view from my stoop in  coastal Staten Island the morning after the storm

When I post by last blog entry at 7:49pm on Monday, October 29, I had no idea how things were about to change in a span of about 15 minutes. At just past 8pm I was called to the door by a family member. The street I had walked up and down so many times had turned into a angry river with 10ft of water that gradually increased. I stood on my stoop in disbelief as the car I has driven only hours earlier was snatched from me. First, the lights went on, then the trunk opened, finally the car spun around and started traveling down the river that invaded my block. My basement soon began to fill with water stopping inches from filling the first floor. As the initial disbelief wore off, the journalist in me grabbed my camera and sought to document the wrath of mother nature.

In the wake of the storm Internet and power outages prevented me from sharing these pictures on my blog. I managed to, in brief moments of cell phone signal, get a few pictures out on Facebook and Twitter. I also needed time to adjust to reality of life after the storm, a basement in desperate need of cleaning and drastically increased commuting times. Yet, all along I planned on sharing my experiences among the devastation that affected thousands along the east coast and beyond.

But first, my heart goes out to all those affected. In the wake of the devastation, houses completely destroyed and lives lost, I know I am one of the fortunate ones. While my family lost cars and possessions and our home was damaged, we remained safe and together. Our house still stands and luckily only the basement flooded.

I am also very thankful for the help and support of those around me, including strangers who volunteered their time and donated supplies to help my family in the recovery effort. While Staten Island is often the forgotten borough, starting a few days after the storm the outpouring of support has been astonishing.

The recovery efforts continue to this day, over 2 weeks after Sandy hit. In some ways I wonder if this area will ever be the same. Yet progress has been made and I would like to share how the storm affected us through pictures.

Since this is a shoe blog, I would be amiss if I didn't mention how my shoe collection faired.   Luckily, the shoes I most commonly wear were on the second floor and away from the water. However, I did have shoes I wore less frequently or was planning on donating that were destroyed. Unfortunately, that is one damage I did not photo document. 

My sneakers have been a symbol of the damage to my area. When faced with the water and dirt in my basement and the mud and debris on the streets I decided to only wear my old sneakers. While they lack the cushioning and support of my new sneakers, they have gotten so dirty I will happily throw them away when the cleaning is done.

On the left you see my sneakers before the storm. The right hand side shows the dirt and mud.

Unfortunately more than just sneakers or shoes were destroyed. These before and after pictures show my block during the afternoon of Monday October 29 and the after pictures are either from that night or the next morning. The before pictures show the results of some wind damage but nothing like the damage that was about to come. 

My car before and after it was spun around and floated down the street. Also note the cars on top of each other across the street. 

New Nike Flyknit Sneakers: More Sock than Shoe

Continuing with the recent sneaker theme on Through the Sole, Nike has just released information on a new line of knit sneakers, which are unlike any shoes currently on the market.

The new sneaker line, the Nike Flyknit, is designed to be feather light, formfitting, and almost seamless.

The shoe was designed with runners in mind. Nike sought to completely re-imagine the sneaker and, with feedback from runners, came to the idea that the new shoe should be more like a sock, according to Nike.

Comfort and Style: The Success of New Designs by Crocs

An ad for Crocs new designs, showing their comfort and style.

One of my biggest goals when shopping is to find comfortable and stylish shoes. I want to be fashionable but don’t want foot pain by the end of the day. Also, living in New York where rain is fairly common, I strive to have waterproof shoes. While rain boots do the trick, they look silly when it’s sunny and can be warm and inappropriate for some occasions.

Crocs has moved in and tried to fill this niche with expanding its line to include more style conscious but still comfy and usually waterproof shoes. The expansion has been profitable.

The brand was created in 2002 by three boating enthusiasts who wanted a lightweight material that was waterproof and slip-resistant. After a few years of profitability, in 2008, profits began to fall, partially because people disliked the look. For example, there is a Facebook group “I don’t care how comfortable Crocs are, you look like a dumb***”, and a website dedicated to their elimination.

However, starting in 2010, profits began to rise again, according to Andrew Adam Newman of the NY Times. It is projected the company will make over $1 billion in 2011. Only 45% of that profit comes from the traditional model, showing the success of Crocs expansions.

Happy 2nd Birthday Through the Sole!

Through the Sole was started on February 8, 2010, after its second year, I wanted to look back at the highlights. I have written about a wide array of topic, from the economy to shoes made of cheese.

This year, the number of readers of Through the Sole has greatly increased, spiking during the late April and early May posts about the shoes of the Royal Wedding. Through the Sole was one of the first sites to show pictures of Kate Middleton’s wedding shoes. Seeing my readers’ interest in the Princess of Wales, I continue to produce related content, such as Kate’s other shoe choices, the shoe choices of guests, such as Victoria Beckham, the shoe choices of other royal brides, and even her sister, Pippa’s shoe choices.

The shoes of celebrities have been a big draw to Through the Sole, with Lady Gaga’s shoes also being a popular read.

In the past year, I have expanded my review of shoes, focusing on being budget-friendly while still providing comfort and style. Thus, I have reviewed lines for Target and shoes from Lands End. I have also shared my finds from discounters, like T.J. Maxx and outlet stores.

The High Heel Index: Does Heel Height Predict the Economy?

We’ve talked about how Michelle Obama fashion choices can influence stock prices, but are high heel heights correlated to the well-being of the economy?

Researchers at I.B.M. used social media to determine that high heel heights are dropping. In fact, the median high of heels mentioned in 2009 was seven inches and fell to two inches in 2011. I.B.M. believes this information suggests that the economy may begin to come back, according to Eric Wilson at the NY Times.

Comfort or Style? I Found Both with Dr. Scholl's Metallic Flats

I have cute black flats, but unfortunately by the end of a long day, my feet hurt. Thus, I set out to find cute and comfy flats. Not just comfy, supportive. Previously, I talked about the dilemma of finding comfortable and stylish shoes.

After some time shopping, I was successful. I bought metallic Dr. Scholl’s flats from Famous Footwear for $31.99. The shoes are a pewter color in between silver and gold, so they go with everything and are on trend for the season. I also like with the metallic color that they can be both dressy and work friendly. They have a round metal buckle design in the front and are cut low, so you get a hint of toe cleavage.

Great Boot Shopping Deals at Marshalls

Recently, I decided to prepare for the upcoming wintery weather by searching for new boots. Luckily Marshalls provided tons of options at prices that could only considered deals. They had a wide selection from top designers. I walked out with short casual brown Michael Kors boots and grey slightly slouchy Unlisted boots. Ok, now I’ll let you in on a secret, they were from the kids department, but fit me perfectly.

Awesome and Stylish Aussie Dogs Boots

I recently received two pairs of Aussie Dogs brand boots and they may actually make me excited for the upcoming chilly weather. In general, the boots are comfortable, stylish, and seem to be warm. (Ithaca weather has been surprisingly mild so far and I can’t say I’m wishing for a cold front.)

I have two pairs, including a classic sheepskin-style black tall boot, which is from the Aussie Girl line and is completely man-made! As a vegetarian and an animal rights activist the availability of well-made, comfy, and stylish shoes without animal products is very exciting. The other pair is the La Croix style in cream. This boot is mid-height and made of sheepskin with a rubber sole. The boot has fur detail and fringe on the side.

Cute, Comfy, and Classic Ballet Flats from Lands’ End

Even though its summer and time for flip-flops and sandals, sometime you want ballet flats, even if it’s just to hide an old pedicure.

Unfortunately, while a lot of flat shoes seem sensible and good for your feet, they often lack support, leading to fallen arches and foot pain (Vansickle, n.d.).

Thus, I ordered Lands’ End’s Emma Classic Ballet Shoes because promise arch support and cushioning. They are now selling for only $15.19 and come in summery colors like silver, light red, and yellow.

Cheap Summer Fun! Miss Trish of Capri for Target Summer 2011 Collection

If you want fun and cute summer shoes, check out Miss Trish of Capri Summer 2011 collection for Target. After popular previous collaborations, this collection of wedges, sandals, and dressy flip-flops is playful, well-designed and comfortable.

The materials are cheaper than the regular designs but come a sharp discount. The designer’s shoes can be upwards of $300 while the Target collection tops out at $30. This is much cheaper than even when you find Miss Trish shoes in discounters, such as Daffy’s.

 I happened to check out my local Target and found them on clearance for 50 percent off. I purchased a pair of green wedges with flowers for $15 and my mom purchased blue flowered flip-flops for $10. The selection of styles was limited but there were many sizes available. Online more styles are available but they have not yet been marked down.

Shoes for Spring: What to Wear When it Rains

My inclement weather collection.

In Ithaca, it seems like it’s been raining for weeks without end. To survive I have a collection of cute, waterproof, and comfy shoes to stay stylish and dry.  Although rain boots, or wellies, are traditional and I have owned many pairs, sometimes I want something different. Also, when it starts getting warmer I find rain boots sweaty and hot.

In general, from rainy days you should wear a study and waterproof material like rubber, pleather, treated leather shoes. Save suede and light colored fabrics from sunny days.

My Collection:

Rain Boots:

For early spring and major storms, nothing beats rain boots. They keep your feet and the bottom of your pants dry, so you can splash in puddles and run through mud. Especially if you’re not wearing them to work, go crazy with color to make a dreary day more fun. My current pair is the above black and white check from the Talbots Clearance Outlet, but I have had bright pink plaid and sunflowers.

Shoe Shopping: T.J. Maxx and Talbots

My recent shoe buys from T.J. Maxx and Talbots

I recently got the chance to do some shoe shopping for spring and I want to share my purchases.

At the Talbots clearance outlet, I picked up peep-toed black pumps. They have small round silver studs all around the opening. They are made of leather and have a crocodile-like texture. The heel is thicker, which I find makes them sturdier and more comfortable. They were on sale, so I paid around $25, which seemed like a great deal. I find the Talbot’s clearance outlet a great place to get classic comfortable high-heels. Have you ever shopped for shoes there?

Shoes for Winter Weather: My Boot Collection

My winter boot collection at college.

This winter Mother Nature is giving the Eastern United States the worst of winter to deal with—blizzards and subfreezing temperatures. Choosing the right footwear in winter is an important task. Having cold wet feet or slipping because your shoes lack traction are some of the consequences of poor footwear choices. I am pulling on my own experiences as a college student in the winter wonderland known as upstate New York’s Finger Lakes, and research to help you have the appropriate footwear.

Nose Jobs, Liposuction…Now plastic surgery for feet

Botox, tummy tucks, face-lifts, breast augmentation, limp plumpers, nose jobs, and liposuction: we are surrounded by stories of people using plastic surgery to change their appearances. Now, the trend is really from head to toe with a growing number of women opting for cosmetic surgery to make their feet look better and sometime to make high-heels more comfortable.

Some observers are calling the trend the 'Sex and the City' effect after the supposed obsession with shoes the show caused (Dakss, 2005).

The procedures can costs up to $3,000 and foot plastic surgery industry is estimated to be a $45 million business, according to ABC News’ Nightline. 

The Controversial Ugg Boot

My imitation Ugg boots

The weather has all of a sudden turned chilly, and although they are worn almost all year, Ugg boots are being seen all around. Uggs and all their copies are quite controversial. While they are praised for their warmth and comfort, they are disliked for their looks. For many they put the “ugg” in ugly.

The page Ugg boots are ugly has 1,882 Facebook “likes,” while the official Ugg Australia page  has 1,773 fans. This highlights the close debate.