Blog » orthotic
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Are Birkenstocks worth it?
You’ve all heard of them; you may even own a pair or two already; but the main question everyone focuses on; “Are Birkenstocks worth it?”
Originating in 1774, the iconic German shoe manufacturer was brought to the US in 1966, Birkenstock sandals became heavily associated with hippies and ‘Flower Children’ in the 1970’s. Introduced to high fashion in the early 90’s by supermodels and actors; the demand for the iconic core sandal has increased significantly.
Con: Sizing
We understand the sizing of Birkenstocks can be daunting for a new customer, our staff have extensive knowledge and years’ experience in fitting footwear to ensure for the best fit. On our website and social media, you will find Birkenstock Shopping Guides & Size guides for extra help, with a trouble-free return experience if the wrong size was purchased. Note, the Birkenstocks are available in a regular and narrow width, the regular has an outlined foot illustration on the innersole whereas the narrow fit has a filled foot illustration.
Pro: They are unbelievably comfortable!
Birkenstock use premium quality cork to provide orthopaedic contours of the feet, for maximum comfort. Cork is a natural, lightweight and shock absorbent material that derives from the cork oak trees, which is completely renewable. Firstly, the cork footbed can be quite tough at first; wearing them around the house is a great and easy to way to allow the cork to mould and shape with every step.
For those who find the initial ‘wearing in’ stage of Birkenstocks, here at Grundy’s Shoes we offer various styles with a Soft Footbed. The Soft Footbed is padded with an anatomically pre-formed foam insert, this is made up of tiny air bubbles that contribute to a softer and unique wearing experience.
Pro: They are long lasting!
The natural materials of Birkenstocks allow a hot and cold insulating effect to promote a healthy foot climate for overall foot health and long-lasting footwear. These materials allow for all day wear as the natural cork footbed will not deteriorate with age; for older pairs of Birkenstocks that need some TLC, you are able to get them resoled at Birkenstock approved repairers.
Con: Pricing $
Birkenstocks pricing varies due to the materials used, from EVA rubber, synthetic leather, Vegan, Suede, Oiled and Smooth leathers; the pricing of Birkenstocks can vary from $91, all the way to $320. For the following reasons, we can assure you they are popular and priced for the right reasons!
Pro: Fashionable & Comfortable for work & home!
Here, at Grundy’s Shoes we stock a range of Birkenstocks in both core and seasonal collections, including work approved footwear for various industries such as healthcare, hospitality, and fashion. We stock core styles that are available to shop all year round, with the option to shop our limited-edition seasonal styles that are often brighter colours and unique designs for Birkenstock lovers!
Ensuring an optimum level of comfort and support, healthcare workers often go for Boston, London & Linz as they are our closed toe styles and allow for protection in a medical environment and meet the requirements of most healthcare dress codes. Our Super Birki & Profi Birki styles are made from Polyurethane which allows for a waterproof upper and a non-abrasive and slip resistant outsole, perfect for Professional use.
For those wearing their Birkenstocks around the house and running errands, we stock various colours and materials to suit your personal style. The Zermatt, Amsterdam (restock coming soon!) and Shearling Suede ranges are perfect for around the house; allowing your feet to be comfortable, supported whilst the soft uppers are gentle and breathable on the skin. The classic Arizona ‘two strap’ sandal style, is often paired with denim for a minimalist and timeless look for both men and women.
Please note: Stock and styles vary between each Grundy’s Shoe stores. There has been a worldwide shortage of Birkenstocks since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have Birkenstock deliveries at all times of the year. Sign up to our Newsletter and keep an eye out on our social media for all restock updates.
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What are the best shoes for walking?
Finding a pair of comfortable, high end quality walking shoes can be difficult. Depending on the level of activity amount of walking you’re doing, your feet need to be supported and secure.
We have a wide range of orthotic friendly shoes, comfortable every day wear and stylish colours here at Grundy’s shoes.
The women’s Ara Munchen’s are weather resistant with their Gore – Tex lining, with a synthetic upper and faux fur border, the wool blend lining will prevent abrasions from all day wear. The rubber soles provide flexibility with the way you walk and create traction on a variety of surfaces which would be suitable for light walking. These are orthotic friendly, they come in a variety of colours, with or without a zip.
A popular style for men, the Keen Targhee are designed with carefully selected leather to last, the leather and performance mesh are waterproof. With a removable EVA foot bed and dual density EVA mid sole will provide superior comfort and extra support. Cleansport NXT offers a process that controls the natural odour within footwear, this is activated when the sweat contacts with the material.
A fan favourite, Ecco’s Biom Fjuel (unisex) have leather perforations for breathability; making it easy to wear whilst wearing all throughout the day, even when exercising. The lace up closure provides an easy on-off wear and a secure personalised fit, the low to ground construction will provide a natural position for each foot for ultimate walking comfort. Biom Fjuel vary in cashmere, sangria pink and a variety of black shades.
With a variety of unisex options, Propet Travelfit are a suitable for gentle walking and travelling; easy to pack in a suitcase and to wear whilst exploring. The firm heel of these sneakers will help reduce foot fatigue as well as the padded collar supporting your feet. Made with high performance rubber and EVA midsole; provides comfort, flexibility and durability on a variety of surfaces. Suitable for orthotics and for the wet and dry climates, available in shades of grey and black.
If you are unsure of what shoes are best suited for you, visit us in-store for our expert fitters who are happy to help find you the perfect shoe. We also have other blog posts available on foot health, general shoe care and even what shoe best suits your profession!
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Ecco Spring/Summer 2020 Range
The warmer weather is just around the corner, which means we’re starting to receive in all of our Spring/Summer stock – yay!
One of our most popular brands here at Grundy’s Shoes is Ecco, who sell a lot of orthotic friendly, comfortable and stylish footwear.
We have selected some sandals, sneakers, casual and dress shoes in the men’s and women’s range for you to get a taste of our Spring/Summer collection. Feel free to check out our website or head in store to see the full range!
ECCO - 836424 ST.1 HYBRID - $369
SANDALS
271833 - CORKSPHERE SANDAL
A trendy style with a woven design, this fashionable sandal doesn’t just look good, it’s also packed with comfort. It has a full-grain leather upper, and an adjustable elasticised buckle and padded cork footbed, which adapts to the shape of your foot for a unique fit. Perfect to wear with a dress on a nice Summer's day!
ECCO - 271833 CORKSPHERE SANDAL - $229
069563 – OFFROAD WOMEN
The classic women’s Offroad sandal, in a brand-new vibrant colour! It has a neoprene lining, with 3 adjustable Velcro straps, a lightweight footbed, and a rubber sole. A great sandal for Summer, to wear on both indoor and outdoor terrain!
ECCO - 069563 OFFROAD WOMEN - $219
243963 - FLASH
The classic Flash style has always been a bestseller for us, because of its simple design, yet functional style. It has a leather and synthetic upper and lining with two tone straps, and a padded leather covered moulded footbed with superior cushioning.
SNEAKERS
835314 - EXOSTRIDE
This athleisure men’s sneaker has a sporty look, with a leather upper, FLUIDFORM™ Technology and a foot-fitted last, providing anatomical support for the foot. It also has a durable rubber sole, for traction on a variety of surfaces.
ECCO - 835314 EXOSTRIDE - $239
831383 - COOL WOMEN
Everyone loves a chic white sneaker, so you can’t go past our Cool Women style. Made with yak and full grain leather upper and a GORE-TEX® SURROUND® waterproof technology, it will take you wherever you want to go in both comfort and style.
ECCO - 831383 COOL WOMEN - $329
836234 - ST.1 M
This sporty athleisure men’s sneaker has been a hit with our customers. It has the contrasting panels for an on-trend look, and incorporates the FLUIDFORM™ technology, for anatomical foot support that lasts all day, as well as advanced ECCO SHOCKTHRU technology, embedded in a stylish platform sole for increased shock absorption.
292303 - FLEXURE RUNNER WOMEN
This ultra-modern sporty long lace sneaker will be a go-to if you’re on your feet all day. Made with premium ECCO nappa leather upper, and a leather and textile lining which offers breathability, it also has the FLUIDFORM™ Technology and foot-fitted last, which provides anatomical support for the foot. A durable, lightweight PU sole means you’ll feel even lighter with every step.
ECCO - 292303 FLEXURE RUNNER WOMEN - $239
CASUAL
536204 - COLLIN 2.0
This casual men’s sneaker comes in three colours, and has perforated side detailing and suede panels, as well as a removable inner sole with the ECCO Comfort Fibre System®, providing a cool, hygienic environment and a lightweight sole.
ECCO - 536204 COLLIN 2.0 - $209
660454 - RECIPRICO
A classic boat shoe perfect for the warmer weather, with elasticised gussets for easy on-off wear, and perforated detailing for added breathability. A stylish pebbled nubuck leather upper provides an added element of class, and a padded leather insole means you can wear these all day long and not have sore feet at the end of it.
ECCO - 660454 RECIPRICO - $249
450933 - SOFT 8 WOMEN
Wanting a change from the classic ECCO bestseller - the Soft 7 430003? This Soft 8 style is made with full-grain DriTan™ leather, for a soft feeling, yet a premium look. The classic black with a white sole means that while it is a casual shoe, it can be dressed up or down for day or night.
ECCO - 450933 SOFT 8 WOMEN - $289
DRESS
836424 - ST.1 HYBRID
This classic men's dress shoe has a leather upper for breathability with perforated detailing, and a unique VITRUS™ shank which is integrated into the design, allowing P.U. to flow in and around it for a shape that follows the natural contours of the foot.
The ultra-light PHORENE™ uses FLUIDFORM™ Technology to deliver an even softer, lighter midsole, with more energy return. A timeless shoe that has modern elements, for class and an on-trend look.
ECCO - 836424 ST.1 HYBRID - $369
216633 - FELICIA SANDAL
This women’s wedge sandal has a combination of full-grain leather uppers, a slip-on closure with two adjustable Velcro straps for easy on-off wear, and a highly padded, leather covered footbed with superior cushioning. At a 4cm height, it can be worn with a casual outfit during the day, or dressed up for a night time event.
ECCO - 216633 FELICIA SANDAL - $229
And there you have it! That is just a taste of our Spring/Summer 2020 Ecco collection, which is packed with a variety of styles to suit everyone.
Check out our blog on How To Clean, Protect, And Revive Your Shoes here.
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Our Top 5 Men's Orthotic Friendly Shoes
At Grundy’s Shoes, we have a selection of orthotic friendly footwear for men, which are not only comfortable and supportive - but stylish too.
Here are 5 orthotic friendly styles we have on offer in our men’s shoe range.
ECCO SOFT 7 430004
The ECCO SOFT 7 430004 is a bestseller because it’s orthotic friendly, trendy, and can be worn as both a casual everyday shoe, or even paired with a dressier outfit. It has a premium leather upper with a full anatomical last shape and a soft and breathable, leather and textile lining.
It features a removable leather insole which has the ECCO Comfort Fibre System®, keeping the feet staying fresh and dry which helps prevent rubbing, so you can wear them all day long. Of course, these can be taken out to accommodate custom orthotics too!
ECCO - 430004 SOFT 7 MEN - NAVY - $259
ROCKPORT EDGE HILL
A classic and reliable shoe, the ROCKPORT EDGE HILL comes in black and brown, and has a full-grain leather upper for breathability, and a padded tongue and collar to help protect from excessive rubbing and assisting in the prevention of blisters.
It also has a removable, sponge EVA insole with conforms to the shape of the foot. There is also the option of adding your own orthotic if needed. Rockport’s Walking Platform Construction helps provide a wide base of support for the heel and forefoot flexibility, so these are perfect for all day wear and travelling. A rubber sole also means they have excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
ROCKPORT - EDGE HILL - BLACK - $249
KEEN AUSTIN
The KEEN AUSTIN sneaker is waterproof, and can be worn travelling, or for everyday wear. The cushioned metatomical footbed and last are anatomically designed to provide better support. This is because they are built around the overall shape of the foot and cradle the natural contours of the foot.
With a removable insole and a roomy KEEN toe box, these are great for those who wish to put in their own orthotics, and need that extra bit of room!
KEEN - AUSTIN - CHOCOLATE - $229
JOSEF SEIBEL ANVERS 08
JOSEF SEIBEL ANVERS 08 is a popular shoe here at Grundy’s, for the man who wants to be comfortable, and cool. Not only is it orthotic friendly, but it also has an extra wide fit which is a bonus for those who need the additional width in a shoe.
They also have a removable insole, which provides the option to put in your own orthotics if needed. But - if you want to keep in the padded insole that’s already in there, that’s totally ok too! A lightweight PU sole also makes them easy to pack away for travel – win!
JOSEF SEIBEL - ANVERS 08 - TAUPE - $239
PROPET TRAVELFIT MENS
Propet are a leader in comfortable shoes, and the PROPET TRAVELFIT is no exception. It has an easy slip on closure with a back pull-tab bungee cord system and adjustable toggle laces.
It has a generous 3E width, are super light, washable, and the sole exceeds Australian slip resistant assessment standards. It also has a padded collar and a firm heel counter, which reduces foot fatigue.
It also features a Rejuve Motion Technology™ removable footbed (a U-shaped design built into an advanced sole system which is contoured to provide a stabilising force that supports the natural gait).
PROPET - TRAVELFIT - CHARCOAL - $129
We hope some of these suggestions help in choosing an orthotic friendly shoe that’s right for you.
To check out some of our favourite orthotic friendly shoes for women, click here.
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Christmas Gift Guide
It's the most wonderful time of the year! To help you find the perfect gift for that special someone, Grundy's Shoes have put together a gift guide, to make it that little bit easier.
