Last Updated on July 31, 2021 by Ellen Christian
When I was younger, I was a huge fan of super high heels. I had no problems at all standing on a 3″ heel all day. My daughter is the same way now at 18. Unfortunately, at 45, I have seen the error of my ways because I’ve developed problems with my feet and my back that make heels impossible at this point for more than an hour or so.
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New Mary Jane Sandals from Soft Star Shoes
I knew nothing about foot health when I was younger. All I cared about was the latest fashion statement. Had I realized that in countries where footwear is not used, studies show an almost total absence of adult foot problems, I may have made different choices. Of course, you can’t walk around barefoot all the time. First, it’s cold out there sometimes and stores and restaurants frown on you wandering inside in your bare feet.
Giotto Kids Non Slip Barefoot Water Shoes Aqua Socks for Swim Beach Pool (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid), Pink, 34-35
Vibram Women’s VI-S Fitness and Yoga Shoe, Black, 39 EU/7 M USMerrell Women’s Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner, Chili, 8 M US
Soft Star shoes offer a barefoot-like comfortable feel shoe for both adults and children. While I’ve seen Soft Star shoes for children mentioned before, I had no idea that they made shoes for adults as well. Their shoes are designed specifically for natural movement- with flexible, wide, soft soles and breathable, natural materials.
I recently received a pair of Mary Jane sandals that are intended for adults. These sandals are made from premium, formaldehyde-free leathers. They have a flexible, minimal Vibram rubber sole that will mold to your foot and a velcro closure to make it easy to take them on or off. You can customize them with your choice of colors and cut outs to give them your own special style.
Lucky Women’s Emmie Ballet Flat, Black/Leather, 8 M USToms Women’s 10009711 Dip Dye Alpargata Flat, Fuchsia, 12 M USAvaCostume Women’s Chinese Embroidery Casual Mary Jane Travel Walking Shoes Black 43
Now I completely admit that if you are expecting a shoe style that is similar to what you find in the department stores, you’ll be surprised. You’re not going to find a high gloss patent leather with a 3″ heel. When I first took mine out of the box, I wasn’t quite sure what to think. I decided to give them a try and wear them for a while and WOW. These are so super comfortable. They really do feel just like you’re walking around barefoot but with the added benefit of being warmer and protecting your feet from sticks, stones or whatever you may kick while not paying attention inside.
If you’re looking for a super comfortable pair of natural shoes, they don’t get any better than this. Even better, they are handmade in the USA!
Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
These are absolutely the most comfortable and cute shoes I own now! I just received a pair of the Merry Janes in the chocolate color this week and they're all I've had on my feet. I've been a fan of Soft Star shoes for over a year now and none of the styles I own have disappointed. Their Rambler shoe is also a good, comfortable, multi-purpose option. The Phoenix boot is warm and so much nicer than the Uggs you see everywhere. I use their RunAmoc style with a trail sole on all of my hikes. The "Elves" at Soft Star are so pleasant to deal with. They'll answer all of your questions and make sure you're satisfied with your shoes.
I transitioned to minimalist shoes a couple of years ago and my feet have been so happy since then. A weak ankle I've had since high school field hockey no longer gives me problems – no sprains! I'm trying to get my kids to switch, but it's hard to get them out of their Crocs!
These are on my wish list for the next year. We bought my 4 year old softstar ramblers several months ago and loved them so much that I got some for myself. They are the only shoes I've worn in the past couple of months, and I'm not looking forward when I'll have to trade them for something warmer when the snow starts accumulating (I live in Maine). My husband and I are minimalist runners and interested in softstars running shoes, though I've run in my ramblers and enjoyed it. Anyway, all that to say, I'm a bit jealous that you have these! I expect them to be really great go-to shoes for a busy mom.
Those look really comfy! I love that they use formaldehyde-free leathers!