Comfortable shoes that don’t compromise on style
Just because one is over 60, it doesn’t mean that being stylish is abandoned – it’s still an important consideration. But, as we reach our 60s, comfort and safety become increasingly important. Unlike our younger years, the after effects of wearing the wrong shoes can be quite damaging and painful. For example, wearing high heels to a party can leave you in agony for days or wearing completely the wrong shoes while travelling and walking on various surfaces – think cobble-stones – can leave you in all types of pain.
One thing is certain when it comes to shoes in your 60s: What type of shoe should I wear? Well it goes without saying that sadly stilettos simply aren't good for our feet, joints, posture or musculoskeletal systems. But before you resign yourself to a life of clunky, comfortable but not so aesthetically appealing shoes, let us tell you there are many lovely shoes out there that are stylish and elegant and styles that will get your podiatrist’s tick of approval. You just have to know how to walk the fine line between comfort and style. And luckily we have two fabulous brands to tell you about that tick all of these boxes. Do you know of any other great brands?
Ziera
With a history in foot care that dates back to 1933, Ziera have been at the forefront of the industry for a long time. Combining the perfect fit with underfoot comfort, balance and stability and high quality, Ziera shoes do not compromise on style to create their supremely comfortable shoes. Offering a wide range of shoe types – think ballet flats, sandals, sneakers and small heels – as well as a plethora of styles within each category, this New Zealand brand really have women covered when it comes to supportive shoes.
FRANKiE4
The concept was borne out of podiatrist and physiotherapist Caroline McCulloch’s desire to help treat her patients without compromising style. Caroline’s husband, Alan, is also a podiatrist and has a knowledge of footwear developed through working in the technical department of a major footwear brand and many hours in footwear factories. As a result, the FRANKiE4 Footwear range really does deliver unparalleled comfort and foot supporting benefits. Caroline and Alan work together to oversee the manufacturing process that results in a product that not only looks great but is good for you too.
Angela Roper, the Head Designer of Ziera Shoes says: "When shopping for shoes it’s always important that they’re correctly fitted but even more so as you get older. Once your bones are not as young, it’s easier to damage your feet so comfort and the right fit is a must but never give up on style. We work really hard to ensure that Ziera offers you the best fit, underfoot comfort, balance and stability and of course quality."
Top things to look for are:
- Wriggle room – is there enough room for all of your toes?
- Underfoot cushioning – feel the footbed and make sure it has bounce that will support your feet
- Soft & Natural Materials – supple elather allow your feet to breathe as well as mould to your shape
- Durability – check your soles are slip resistant and hard-wearing, that way your new favourites will last the distance