Our Top 10 Shoe Brands That Make For Happy Feet
Style is no longer the most important thing in people’s lives. These days, it’s overpowered by comfort and functionality. Well, for the most part at least. We propose both: Finding a shoe that allows you to walk for miles while looking fabulous and fashionable at the same time!
Best Local Shoes For Your Feet
Veldskoen: The Sole of South Africa
Meaning ‘field shoes’ in Afrikaans, this shoe style became popular amongst the Dutch settlers and native Khoisan many moons ago. Fast-forward to the modern era where they use reversible full-grain leather that is lightly buffed on the inside, and you’ll never look back! These shoes take on the shape of your foot, making them incredibly comfortable. The rubber soles allow for functional grip and durability, whilst also being waterproof.
Jim Green
Locally sourced and handcrafted, Jim Green originated in KwaZulu-Natal in 1992. These shoes are designed for the tough, rugged and adventurous. They are particularly favourable in hiking and farming communities as they are durable, yet comfortable. Also known for being hardy, these shoes boast good protection for your feet. You can wear your Jim Greens for a whole day without even realising how long youve been on your feet for.
Froggie
Also hailing from Durban, Froggie has been around since 1978. These high quality leather shoes were initially curated for business women. Recently, they expanded their range to men and children too. Further to this, Froggie has also been on a drive for producing school shoes that nip adult foot problems in the bud. With their Barefoot Technology, the brand curates shoes that allow for natural movements and accommodate foot growth in children.
Bathu: Walk Your Journey
Named after the slang word for shoe in South African townships, Bathu started in Alexandra, Johannesburg in 2015. With over 32 stores nationwide and over 300 employees – predominately youth – Bathu is a proudly South African fashion brand. Walking your journey with them means having heel and ligament alignment whilst being effortlessly youthful and fashionable. Their Switch 1120 Sneaker flips traditional technology for a more modern approach that leaves your feet happy.
Flowers For Society
Determined to create a new era for footwear, Flowers For Society is big on ethical and sustainable production and design. With a breathable upper mesh, a secure and comfortable fit and with a focus on traction and durability, these sneakers are stylish, yet functional.
Best International Shoes For Your Feet
Sketchers
Sketchers are the ultimate shoe for your feet as they are podiatrist-recommended and affordable. With over 14 comfort technologies at play, Sketchers offer specialised shoes for different needs. They offer different fit styles, including arch, cozy, massage and stretch among others. In addition, their shoes are also breathable, featherlight, machine washable, vegan and waterproof, while also offering protection for your feet. They have all sorts of styles too: Walking, running, court and classic are just a few.
Clarks
Clarks are known for their cushioned footbed, soft leather upper and supreme arch support technology. Redefining happy feet, Clarks’ shoes are softer than the norm, allowing the shape to adapt to your feet. They also come in both regular and wide widths to accommodate natural foot structures. Having been in the business of shoemaking since 1825, Clarks has perfected their craft when it comes to both style and functionality.
Birkenstock
With a super supportive footbed, wide straps for added security and fashionable designs, Birks are the must-have summer (and even winter) staple. Made using cork and other natural materials, Birkenstocks are also environmentally friendly and sustainable. These shoes’ footbeds have deep heel cups, arch support and an indented toe area. The shoe also adapts to your foot shape overtime, which allows comfort for days on end.
New Balance
With superior arch support, great cushioning and shock absorption, customisable fit and width options and enhanced stability and motion control, New Balance puts your feet first. Whether you are looking for a running shoe or a fashionable sneaker, the brand caters for all. Their arch support helps to stabilise the ankle and decreases the risk of twisting or spraining, whilst shock absorption prevents shin splints. In addition, the wider styles minimise the chance of blisters or bunions from forming. All in all, every foot is considered when it comes to New Balance.
GX&Co
South Africa’s much-loved Green Cross recently rebranded to GX & Co. Known for their school shoe range, they are a favourite for children. However, they also have a vast range of casual and business footwear for both men and women. These shoes are orthopedically designed to ensure the bones and muscles of your foot are well protected and supported. Their international brands include Green Cross, Jana, Caprice, Saudi, IGI&Co, Scholl, GX&Co, Tamatis and Geox – all brands that put comfort before fashion.
Common amongst all these shoes are their comfort and functionality without compromising on fashionability. If you love your feet, treat them to a pair of the above and enjoy walking comfortably, but in style.
