topic Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up? in Shoes

Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

FranandZoe — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 08:00:50 GMT

Like this

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

Desertdi — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 08:24:16 GMT

They are made that way because we "supposedly" walk with a rocking motion. Like with a "spring in your step".

I, personally, firmly plant each foot on the ground...............

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

World Traveler — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 11:36:14 GMT

The curve helps keep your walk propelled forward. The Alegras seem to have those the most of what I have seen.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

phoenixbrd — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 12:11:08 GMT

@FranandZoe often promoted as healthy/supportive/comfort shoes...vionic, alegria, dansko etc

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

Peaches McPhee — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 14:30:01 GMT

If a hard-soled shoe did not flip up, you'd trip becaus you foot could not bend as you walk. You'd have to stomp around like Hermann Munster, and that is not a good look.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

Foxxee — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 15:38:56 GMT

If a sole is so hard it doesn't flex with the foot, I'm not buying it. Our feet were made perfectly for walking. Our toes bend accordingly.

If our maker wanted our toes to be in a constant upwards position, they would have been designed that way. I see this as a sales gimmick that too many manufacturers have copied.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

Sooner — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 16:02:35 GMT

All I know is I simply cannot wear them. My feet hurt after no time in them. I don't find them comfortable to walk in either.

I have worn shoes a very long time without having the toe flip up like elf shoes and walked happily and comfortably and safely. I just avoid these.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

BirkiLady — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 22:44:06 GMT

@FranandZoe So glad you asked! The responses have been great fun to read.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

FranandZoe — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 10:53:14 GMT

Thanks everyone!

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

SunValley — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 17:19:10 GMT

I discovered Alegria this year and have found their footbed and rocker bottom to be the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn—can walk the mall concrete floors or run errands and my back doesn’t hurt. I usually kick off my shoes as soon as possible, but not with these. With a very high instep, all the adjustability is a plus too. I only have their low heel sandals so cannot speak to the higher heel or enclosed styles.

I’ve also bought Vionics and Clark’s. The arch in the Vionics is too extreme for me, and hurt like heck, so quit purchasing. I like the Clarks cloud steppers, and the designs keep improving—some of their casual sandals are pretty cute. Spenco is also a good footbed for me and at a good price point.

Re: Why do the fronts of some shoes flip up?

so so — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 17:47:21 GMT

Oh Peaches........I just belly laughed. I have two pair of Clarks shoes, and they are the most comfortable shoes, but they do flip up in the front. they feel like slippers. the best shoes i ever purchased.