Katie Neary, 39
Pediatric dental hygienist, Long Island, NY
Wearing: FitFlops.
For fashion or function? Both. They have arch support, which most sandals don’t have.
How did you first hear about these shoes? Through patients’ parents.
Have they delivered on their wellness promises? It’s toning you can feel.
How often do you wear them? One to two times a week.
Was it worth the investment? Yes.
Would you recommend these shoes? Yes.
Where did you buy them? Online, at FitFlop.com.
Is wellness footwear a fad? It’s a part of my wardrobe now because of the arch support. I have to wear orthopedic shoes, so these are perfect, as are Reebok EasyTone sneakers, which I wear to work every day. You can really feel them toning your hamstrings.
Catheryn Smith, 53
Publishing/advertising, Miami
Wearing: FitFlops.
For fashion or function? Both.
How did you first hear about these shoes? My daughter picked up a pair in Europe for me before they came out in the States.
Have they delivered on their wellness promises? They’re incredibly cushioned and comfortable, and therefore great for walking. The padding is incredible, and you don’t realize you’re working out. You can feel something in your calves, a sort of soreness. Originally I bought them for toning, but now I wear them for comfort.
How often do you wear them? Pretty often, about three times a week.
Would you recommend these shoes? Yes. My daughter stole the first pair I bought because she liked them so much.
Where did you buy them? I bought these at Jildor for $65.
Is wellness footwear a fad? Because of the comfort, it’s not a fad. I can wear these every day in Miami.
Tamara Doherty, 33
Nurse, Brazil
Wearing: Skechers Shape Ups
For fashion or function? Both. They add height and are comfortable. I can wear them all day during work.
How did you first hear about these shoes? I was looking for comfortable work shoes and found them on Zappos. They’re the only ones I’ll buy now. I want to be taller and comfortable. I have them in every color.
Have they delivered on their wellness promises? Yes. My calf muscles are much more toned.
How often do you wear them? Every day. I have one pair for work and another for going out.
Were they worth the investment? Very. They are expensive, but they’ll last forever.
Would you recommend these shoes? I recommend them to everyone.
Where did you buy them? Zappos, for $100.
Is wellness footwear a fad? No. There’s no better work shoe. I’ve been walking for four hours now and nothing hurts.
