The Most Comfortable Shoes are no Longer Ugly or Chunky

Brooklyn, NY (ContentDesk) June 15, 2006 -- What comes to mind when you think about comfortable or orthopedic shoes? Thick soles? Ugly styles? Chunky designs? Yes, "comfortable" shoes have been given a bad rap and are habitually associated with a lack of style in exchange for comfort.

Well, a new online shoes site, www.Most-Comfortable-Shoes.com, is giving this theory a run for its money."It's the ugly or chunky-shoe stigma," Drew and Charlotte Waters, founders of Most-Comfortable-Shoes.com, explained. "Consumers will gladly pay for a good pair of comfortable shoes as long as they pass the style test.

"Manufacturers are aware of this stigma and are updating their styles and re-branding names. What used to be "orthopedic," is now "pedorthic" meaning anatomically correct or posture enhancing.While the variety of comfortable shoes can be overwhelming, the Internet has enabled Most-Comfortable-Shoes.com to bring together the best brands and styles of shoes, boots, sandals and clogs in one place. The site offers reviews and recommendations and once a visitor has made their selection, they are referred to the best online shoe stores where they can pick up their choices at the lowest guaranteed prices.

Recommendations are given for men's, women's and children's comfort styles."Ten years ago it was a choice between Birkenstocks and Doc Martens," Drew said. "Now the options are staggering. European manufacturers like Dansko, Ecco, Born, Naot and Mephisto have expanded into the U.S. marketplace; and, U.S. manufacturers like Merrell, New Balance, Keen and Rockport have redesigned and increased their output to meet this growing demand for comfortable shoes."Much of the footwear on the market today is neither comfortable nor good for the feet.

In fact, The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recently reported that 50 percent of Americans, aged 18-60, suffer from some kind of foot ailment; 12 percent of these ailments are related to wearing incorrect shoes. At Most-Comfortable-Shoes.com, consumers will find recommendations for the most comfortable brands available.

With an increasing awareness of how lifestyle choices affect health and longevity, people are looking for ways to enhance their well-being and comfortable shoes are part of this equation."We offer consumers that elusive blend of great style and supportive comfort," Charlotte explained. "We also refer them to the best online stores and the most competitive prices."Within its first few months online, the Most Comfortable Shoes site has gained a steady following, drawing over 2,000 visitors per day.

The site also shares tips on how to gain the most comfortable fit; determine foot type; and choose the most appropriate shoes for walking, running, hiking and travel activities."Our customers are business people, retail workers, hospitality and healthcare professionals, travelers, walking enthusiasts and a general public that is becoming aware of the benefits of wearing comfortable shoes," Drew said.The site was born out of a personal love for shoes and a quest for comfort. Both Drew and Charlotte worked in occupations requiring long hours on their feet; Charlotte was an associate producer for CBS News in Europe; and Drew was a freelance-documentary cameraman.

Both extensively researched orthopedic technology and consulted podiatrists about shoes that best support the feet."The most common phrase we kept hearing from professionals was 'people need to choose shoes that fit their feet, not make their feet fit the shoes,'" Drew said. "We wanted to compile all of our knowledge and personal research and offer it to other consumers." As a result, Most-Comfortable-Shoes.com recommends shoes that have features such as heels no higher than two inches; a wide-toe box that won't cramp or restrict the toes; cushioned footbeds that mold to the shape of the foot; and materials that allow the feet to breathe.

The site also recommends orthotic insoles and extra comfort shoes for people with arthritis and diabetes.Comfortable shoes with great style no longer have to be chased down; and, all shoes come with free shipping and free return shipping if shoes need to be exchanged for correct sizing.Concluded Drew, "Quite simply, our name really conveys what we do, we offer recommendations for the most comfortable shoes available."For more information, visit: http://www.most-comfortable-shoes.com All trademarks acknowledged..

Long Distance Running Tips for Novice Runners

Your heartbeat pounds in your ears, your eyes focus straight ahead and you only feel the thumping of your feet striding the path as the wind rushes by.

Yes, the experience of running can indeed be described as spiritual or poetic, but unfortunately many new runners find the experience to be boring, painful or even the cause of a serious injury which turns them off running altogether.

If you are interested in running for health, recreation or to train for a marathon supporting your cause, it is wise to take time to develop a healthy routine that will protect your body and create an enjoyable running experience.

STEP ONE: PREPARE TO RUN

It is crucial for a runner to invest in a proper pair of running shoes. Not doing so will put you at an increased risk of pain and serious injury. You will also quickly notice that a proper pair of running shoes gives you more cushion and support which will make running easier than using regular street shoes or those developed for another sport.

Hydration is also important for running. Staying hydrated will help you endure the run and keep your body in prime condition.

If you are training for a long distance race you will want to keep a log of your distance and/or time. You may also wish to log your style of training, any discomfort or feelings about the run if it suits your needs.


STEP TWO: WHERE TO RUN

Concrete sidewalks are NOT the place to run. Harder than asphalt and full of cracks you should make the effort to find a more suitable running surface.

Tracks are usually safe, but can be boring. If tracks are the only option try taking a friend to encourage you to stick to your routine.

Smooth dirt paths are the best option. Grass can work as well but watch for obstructions or uneven surfaces. You can ask local runners or a running store for recommendations for places to run.


STEP THREE: HOW TO RUN

There are various training methods for long distance runners, including interval training and speed training. However, for beginners there are a few basic suggestions to get you started.

Begin every run with a warm up walk. This gets your muscles ready to move. Take a walk break every ten minutes to rehydrate and extend your endurance.

Don't forget to breathe. You should be able to talk while running unless you are going for a fast run which is not usually suitable for a beginner. If you are gasping for breath you need to slow down. You will build endurance with time. It is better to start out easy and build up than wear yourself out.

STEP FOUR: HOW TO FINISH THE RUN

You should always walk for a minute or more after a run to cool down. Stretch your muscles for 10-15 minutes within about 15 minutes of completing your run to keep them from contracting and causing discomfort.

Ice packs or cool water on your legs will also reduce inflammation and help keep your body in good condition for the next run. Not taking these steps can lead to severe injury.

Enjoy your run and take care of your body and you may find that you enjoy the mental benefits of running as much as the physical!