TOMS Shoes are my "Kick of the Week", not because of their incredible comfort or brilliant design, but because this company was founded JUST to give shoes to needy kids around the world. Blake Mycoskie, CEO (self titled: Head Shoe Giver) of TOMS Shoes gives a pair of shoes for every pair he sells, cheers to that. Thanks Current TV (check it out if you get it) for the YouTube clip. If you'd prefer to listen to a radio piece you can do so HERE, from Marketplace on American Public Media.
Kick of the Week
July 25, 2007
May 23, 2007
20 million Aussies can't be wrong...can they?
Could this be the worlds most practical boot? Lightweight, tough as nails, weather resistant (personally I say waterproof) good fit (for a slip on) and not a bad looker either, all the ingredients to make for a great piece of footwear. Add a good after market insole to these and you've got a hard to beat package for everything from a day in the garden to a day on the job to a trip to dinner with your girl (put a little elbow grease into 'em first). The boot you see here is a good evolution from the original "Blunnie" most of us have seen before. They have taken today's technology and added super durable TPU (thermo-polyurethane) outsoles to a proven upper design. Once again, a company keeping it simple and making a stellar product.
April 26, 2007
KEEN, sans toe bumper?
I never thought it would work, a KEEN without an obnoxious toe bumper. Just as some were skeptical of KEEN when they first began, I was skeptical of this freak of the KEEN line, almost an abomination daring to go where no keen has gone before. The KEEN Sarasota for women and Daytona for men has become an overnight hit in our shop. These babies combine KEENs neoprene lining, elastic lacing system and waterproof leather upper with a leather lined cork latex blend footbed (similar, sort of, to that of a Birkenstock) to make a great mix that works for almost everyone who has tried it on. Never thought KEEN would have such a great sandal without their ubiquitous toe bumper.
March 10, 2007
One of a kind...whew!
Sorry about this one. I have access to an awful lot of shoes in my business so it's funny that I end up wearing one pair almost exclusively. One pair that fits just right, feels just right, works for my needs and has lasted (with a bit of repair and modification) for over 12 years now. Not to say I NEVER wear anything else but these are my favorite. You will never find another pair quite like them and that is well, quite lucky for you! Here's a short history...
In the beginning there was a Birkenstock London, and it was very good. However, Birkenstock soles are not ideal in every situation. Answer: Vibram Kletterlift sole. A little stiff to start off with these took a bit of getting used to. Once used to the stiffer thicker sole I felt like I needed a little more arch support. My answer: Tatami footbeds from Birkenstock. Tatami is an off shoot of Birkenstock and they had sandals with a higher arch. So I took my beloved shoes down to their elements and replaced the footbeds (not like removing and replacing a pair of insoles, more like replacing the engine in your car). Feels great! I think I've found the perfect shoe. I just wish that they were easier to get on and off. No problem, I cut the backs off to make them a clog. Now don't get any ideas here, they are NOT for sale. So don't even tempt me with your offers! Do you have a favorite pair of shoes you just can't give up? Let me know!
February 01, 2007
Kick of the Week
So far I have focused on men's shoes more than the ladies but this shoe just hits all the right chords for me. They have also been very well received by my customers (to my relief after going quite heavy on my spring order). This week it is the Keen Calistoga. Mary Jane's are almost always a winner with Keen, and Keen has hit the mark here. The Calistoga has the usual chunky Keen sole, yet this model is a bit lighter in weight and has a slightly less obnoxious toe bumper than it's predecessors. There are three great colors and of course classic Keen comfort.
January 25, 2007
Solid!
The Vasque Breeze Low is my "Kick of the Week". For men and women this sucker is a SOLID performer. At about $90 (non-Gore version), it's
about as much shoe as you can get for the money. Nice stiff thermoplastic midsole plate, durable Vibram outsole, breathable leather and nylon mesh uppers, all come together in a solid package that is incredible lightweight. Perfect for day trips, travelling, walking, or anyone who needs a shoe that is an obvious step up from your everyday tenny.
