good non-sneaker, non-dress shoes

[achooloco]

well the title is basically what i'm looking for.

a little backgound, i have very flat feet. so flat to the point that a doc a few years ago told me that i should get arches or i run risks of ... well to be honest i dont remember but it wasn't good. but i'm going to the podiatrist (have had a bad pain for a couple months and pretty sure its because of worn down shoes). i know i'll at least get arches. i'll also be getting new shoes because the current ones have lasted 2 years through a lot of walking here and abroad. will the arches force me to get a bigger shoe size?

i really like my current Born shoes but can't find them in austin. least not any of the casual or sport styles (i've checked half the fitting stools stores in austin and they all only have the dress shoes or the sandals). what other well made shoes are there out there?

i'll admit i dont know very much about nice shoes except the borns seem well made and i want something of equal or better value. i'm willing to spend (this pain really sucks right now) just not anything crazy. i looked online but considering i dont know the effects of arches, not sure if buying on the web is wise for this one purchase. any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!

 

[Not that Bob]

Man, I hate to admit this. It's so stereotypically "Austin", but I have good luck at "In Step." You have to get past wearing Birkenstocks...which isn't easy. There is a brand called "Foot Prints" which are comfortable, but they still look like a Birkenstock. The absence of foot pain takes some of the sting out of being mocked for wearing Birks. Plus you can always get that lesbian fantasy working while you shop in there.

 

[1990txgirl]

Geox just opened a store at Barton Creek. The soles are aerated. My husband had some loafers by them that he really liked. The women's dress shoes are also surprisingly comfortable for being fairly stylish.

Have you been to Karavel? They have a large selection of comfort brands. They also have a "wellness center" and are staffed by fit and comfort specialists. The customer service is very good.

 

[johnny chimpo]

Check out Keen and Merrill at REI. Comfy, and look good with jeans/khakis.

 

[Brak]

In reply to:

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[chuychanga]

One of the big stores in Barton Creek Mall carries a fair variety of Born Shoes. It might be Dillards. I can't remember; if not check Foleys, Macys, etc..

 

[Skipper]

I like my Rockport walkers a lot. Forget the model name, but they're lace up and come in black and brown. Very comfortable shoes, wear them to work every day. Want to say they're about $87 at most stores. Second the motion for Karavel; Cabela's also carries them.

 

[judgroybeanbag]

go barefoot, or wear redwings, otherwise you are a puss.