Blog
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How To Clean, Protect, And Revive Your Shoes
It’s all well and good to go and purchase some quality, comfortable shoes, but if you don’t know how to protect and clean them properly, they won’t look good for long!
We share some products we stock at Grundy’s Shoes, to help clean, revive and protect your shoes.
Before using any of these products, it’s best to lay down a towel or newspaper where you’ll be working, to prevent any damage.
Brush any surface dirt and dust off of your shoes, and remove the laces, to prevent them from getting stains or product on them.
El Naturalista SeaCream - $19.95
The El Naturalista SeaCream is made of natural waxes, vegetable oils and algae. It is ideal for reviving the colour and touch of your shoes, while softening and regenerating them at the same time. If your shoes are starting to lose their glow, use some of this and you’ll be pleased with the results!
Please note the original shade, texture and colour of the leather may slightly change due to the moisturising of the leather, and should only be used occasionally.
How to use: First, remove dirt and dust gently using a brush or cloth. Dab the provided sponge into the SeaCream and rub in circular motions, all over the upper of the shoes. Leave to dry naturally.
El Naturalista SeaCream - $19.95
Waproo Suede and Nubuck Nylon Brush - $8.80
This little gadget is one of our favourites, as it’s a versatile rubber and bristled brush, specifically designed to clean suede and nubuck leathers.
How to use:
Bristle side - Use to clean and raise the nap of suede leather
Rubber pile side - Use to clean and raise nap of nubuck leather
Ribbed edge - Use for cleaning hard to reach areas (eg. where shoe upper meets sole)
Round chisel edge - Use to erase marks from suede or nubuck
Waproo Suede and Nubuck Nylon Brush - $8.80
ECCO Care Cream – Transparent & Black - $14.95
This gentle, water-based cream is light enough for daily use, and can be used on all smooth, grained and aniline leathers.
It preserves and restores the colour to leathers, and leaves a protective finish against dirt and stains.
How to use: Using the sponge applicator, rub in circular motions over the shoes to restore and protect the leather.
ECCO Care Cream - Transparent & Black - $14.95
ECCO Universal Waterproofer - $19.95 In Store only
This waterproofer protective spray helps keep shoes clean, dry, and free from stains. It provides an invisible and breathable protective coating, and is suitable for use on smooth leather, suede, nubuck, and fabric.
How to use: Ensure all surface dirt and dust is wiped off with a soft cloth first. Spray 25cm away and leave for 15 mins to dry. Repeat process.
ECCO Universal Waterproofer - $19.95
Waproo Suede and Nubuck Cleaning Block - $12.95
A nifty little rubber cleaning block, used to remove stubborn marks from suede and nubuck leather.
How to use: Rub Waproo’s Cleaning Block over the area to be cleaned, then brush lightly to remove residue.
Waproo Suede & Nubuck Cleaning Block - $12.95
We hope this has helped, and given you some insight into how to care for, and rejuvenate your shoes!
Check out our other helpful blog posts, like Fitting Your FRANKiE4’s & Different Ways To Lace Your Shoes, here.
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Top 10 Winter Boots For Men & Women
As we head into the colder months, where all we want to do is rug up, it’s important that we have a comfy (and stylish!) pair of boots to wear, to make it a bit more bearable!
Grundy’s Shoes have a wide range of comfortable boots available, including orthotic friendly styles, for both men and women. These are available from brands including: FRANKiE4, ECCO, Ara, Eos, Pikolinos, Hispanitas, Birkenstock, Rieker and R.M. Williams.
Here, we give you 5 options each for men’s & women’s boots to get you through the winter season.
FRANKiE4 - HARPER
While FRANKiE4 have a wide selection of winter boots, the FRANKiE4 Harper boot is a new style, with unique laser cut detailing, a side zip and elasticised gusset.
Combining both style and comfort, it has a leather upper and lining, a stable 5.5cm stacked block heel and durable rubber sole, and a podiatrist and physiotherapist designed removable functional footbed with heel and arch support and forefoot cushioning. Available in wheat and black, she is a must-have!
ARA - MUNCHEN
Perfect for those EXTRA cold days, the ARA Munchen boot comes up a little higher so your ankles don't get cold. It has a synthetic faux-fur border with synthetic wool lining which also contains a GORE-TEX® waterproof construction, to ensure your feet stay dry and toasty warm, all day long!
EOS - WILLET
A classic style, the EOS Willet boot has rouched styling and a slip-on closure with twin ankle zips, and rubber soles for traction on a variety of surfaces. These beauties can be paired with any outfit, as they come in classic, neutral colours, including this chestnut tone.
PIKOLINOS - WIU-8590
The WIU-8590 Pikolinos ankle boot has an outer zip with a fashionable tassel, and the perfect 4cm heel height. These boots are classic and chic and available in both black and garnet, meaning they can take you from day to night in comfort, and style.
HISPANITAS - HI99141
Made in Spain, this Hispanitas HI99141 5cm block heel is made from quality leather, is of course comfortable, and super stylish too. It features contrast materials of suede and leather, as well as a diagonal zipper embellishment for an on-trend look.
It also features the new Hispanitas TRIFLOW technology, which cushions each step, providing flexibility and comfort on the tread. Available in neutral black and taupe colours, this heel can be paired with anything from dresses and skirts to a pair of classic pants!
MEN
PIKOLINOS - M6E-8320
A sleek men’s boot from Pikolinos, the M6E-8320 is made in Spain with quality leather. It features a removable padded footbed, as well as a lightweight synthetic sole, eliminating the clunky feel of a lot of boots. Available in a classic black and a dark tan, this is a must have for any man looking for a winter boot.
PIKOLINOS - M6E-8320 - $275
BIRKENSTOCK - DUNDEE PLUS
A new arrival to Grundy’s Shoes, the Birkenstock Dundee Plus boot features a suede leather upper, which is made with premium cowhides that are split to produce soft, thick, matte leather.
They also have a removable insole, and a thermoplastic rubber sole for great traction on a variety of surfaces. We have these available in both men and women’s’ styles in different colours.
BIRKENSTOCK - DUNDEE PLUS - $216
ECCO - 440374 SOFT 7 MEN
A shoe that can be considered both casual and dressy, the ECCO 440374 Soft 7 Men boot is perfect to wear both day and night. It has a nubuck leather upper and a full anatomical last shape for an extremely comfortable fit, while featuring a removable, leather-covered insole with the ECCO Comfort Fibre System® which provides a cool and hygienic environment in the shoe.
Available in brandy and black, these are a classic to add to the collection.
ECCO - 440374 SOFT 7 MEN - $269
RIEKER - 13930
The Rieker 13930 boot can be worn in both a business or casual environment, and is a classic lace up with a hidden gusset, for easy on-off wear. It’s lined with a light fleece, meaning it's warmer, and the padded footbed with shock absorption has Antistress technology for extra comfort.
RM WILLIAMS - DYNAMIC FLEX CRAFTSMAN BOOTS
A pair of R.M.’s is probably on the list of many men, and it’s no wonder why, as it’s an absolute classic and can dress up any outfit. We stock the Dynamic Flex Craftsman in both chestnut and black in the H – wider fit. It’s made with yearling leather upper and a chisel square toe for that classic style. It also features a removable cellulose insole board for extra comfort, and the fibreglass shank reinforces the shape of the boot and supports the arch.
Plus, the sole features a sewn welt with composition leather and rubber for flexibility, durability and traction on a variety of surfaces.
RM WILLIAMS - DYNAMIC FLEX CRAFTSMAN BOOTS - $595
And there you have it! Hopefully this has given you some ideas about potential boots to add to your collection for winter.
Check out our blog post on the best work shoes for men and women here.
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Best Work Shoes For Men & Women
Finding a pair of work shoes can be hard work! Depending on your industry and the requirements they have, it can be a painful process (no pun intended) to find something suitable. Of course, you want them to be comfortable, stylish, work – and often – orthotic friendly too.
Here, we’ve broken down a range of occupations, and some styles of shoes we sell at Grundy’s Shoes that may be suitable for you.
CHEFS/SURGEONS
MEN & WOMEN
BIRKENSTOCK PROFI BIRKI
The Birkenstock Profi Birki is specifically designed for professional use, so is perfect for chefs and surgeons, and those in slippery working conditions. It has a waterproof upper, a removable anatomically contoured Birki-foam footbed which will mould to the shape of the foot, and a PU sole which is non-abrasive and resistant to grease, acid, oil, chemicals and lye, with a pronounced heel and deep tread pattern for maximum slip resistance.
Compliant with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2210.3, they also have a hand washable outer so you can easily keep them clean!
BIRKENSTOCK PROFI BIRKI - $124
BIRKENSTOCK LINZ
The Birkenstock Linz has a smooth leather upper that will resist stains and dirt, and an adjustable Velcro strap for extra security and a custom fit. It also has a closed heel counter, and a slip resistant and oil and grease-resistant super grip rubber sole, with a natural heel profile and deep heel cup which keeps the natural padding of the foot where it belongs and offers support for long work shifts on your feet. Not recommended for full-time kitchen use, but can be suitable for chef work depending on dress code and duties.
CORPORATE/OFFICE
If you need the standard black heel or flat, but want something stylish and comfortable, FRANKiE4 has a selection of styles to choose from.
For a flat option, FRANKiE4 AiNSLEY is your classic, pointed toe sandal with an adjustable ankle strap and an elasticised inner gusset for that extra bit of flexibility. The standard F4 functional footbed has heel and arch support and forefoot cushioning, as well as a durable rubber sole so you get lasting wear out of them.
CHARLOTTE is a t-bar flat with studded detailing for added style. This one comes with the removable footbed and FRANKiE4 custom fit assembly, enabling a wide to narrow fit according to what you need. It also has padding and cushioning as well as the durable rubber sole.
For heels, the TESSA has an appropriate 65mm heel, and are so comfortable, that you won’t be dying to throw them on the floor at the end of the working day. TESSA has stylish crossover straps and a classic pointed almond toe, as well as an adjustable ankle strap which is also elasticised underneath. The supportive and cushioned F4 footbed means your feet will be thanking you, with an additional 4mm of cushioning under the footbed, and a total of 7mm forefoot cushioning.
Another t-bar style but in a 6mm block heel, this beautiful Hispanitas HI99429 heel also has some perforated detailing on it to break up the heaviness of the black. This style also has an elasticised buckle, and the Hispanitas TRIFLOW technology, which cushions each step, providing flexibility and comfort on the tread. A perfect office shoe!
NURSES
Specifically created as part of the FRANKiE4 ACTiVE collection, this leather mary-jane style ADDi, has an adjustable velcro strap, and is ideal for nurses who are on their feet all day. It comes with the F4 custom fit assembly, removable functional footbed with heel and arch support and forefoot cushioning, as well as a slip resistant dual-density PU sole.
Another part of the F4 ACTiVE collection, WiNNiE is a sneaker style, with a soft and flexible leather upper for you to easily move around in, as well as flared midsole, which provides a more stable base and improves weight distribution. Of course, she has the F4 removable footbed with heel and arch support and forefoot cushioning, as well as a slip resistant rubber sole. So if you are on your feet all day and need something supportive, but also want to be stylish, WiNNiE is a go to!
This ECCO shoe has been a favourite by nurses for a long time, those who need a sturdy, all black lace up shoe. It has a leather upper, full anatomical last shape and a removable padded inner sole with ECCO Comfort Fibre System which provides a cool, hygienic environment so your feet don’t get too hot!
HOSPITALITY
One of the favourites for hospitality workers, this PTC OXFORD style has a water and stain resistant leather upper and KEEN.PROTECT toe guards for the best protection. Not only that, but they have a moisture wicking textile lining, and a removable KEEN.CUSH footbed which is a blend of PU, cork and memory foam that contours to the foot and gives you the cushioning you need for a long day on your feet. It has a KEEN.GRIP oil and slip resistant rubber outsole, and meets or exceeds the ASTM F1677-96 Mark II non-slip testing standards.
WiNNiE – As mentioned for nurses, WiNNiE is a sneaker style, with a soft and flexible leather upper for you to easily move around in, as well as flared midsole, which provides a more stable base and improves weight distribution. Of course, she has the F4 removable footbed with heel and arch support and forefoot cushioning, as well as a slip resistant rubber sole. So if you are on your feet all day and need something supportive, but also want to be stylish, WiNNiE is a go to!
We also have a shoe which has been recommended by flight attendants, which is the ARA 12-13436 ORLY, at an appropriate 5cm heel height. It has a leather upper and lining with the ARA HighSoft Flex Technology, for flexibility and padded undersole lining, as well as rubber soles, which is what you need if you’re standing all day.
FOR THE MEN
ROSSI 301 ENDURA (UNISEX) – HOSPITALITY
Most people are aware of the classic ROSSI 301 boot, suitable for all day wear, on the farm, or even in the hospitality industry. They have an easy slip on closure with elasticised gussets, and a removable PU footbed, as well as air cushioned slip resistant soles which are protected by nitrile rubber, protecting you from fats and heat rated to 300c.
ECCO CALCAN – OFFICE
If you’re a corporate or office worker, you might need something classic but of course, comfortable. The ECCO Calcan has a leather upper and lining, and a removable padded inner sole with ECCO Comfort Fibre System, providing a cool, hygienic environment so your feet don’t get too hot. It also has a ECCO direct-injected PU with TPU heel flick and leather welt construction, with FLUIDFORM™ - a direct injection process that uses fluid materials to follow one-of-a-kind anatomical lasts and form the most comfortable base for your shoe, so you can be on your feet all day long in comfort and class.
We hope that’s given you some help when finding a work shoe that is of course suitable and comfortable, but most importantly, also stylish!
Check out our other blog posts, including Our Top 5 Men's Orthotic Friendly Shoes.
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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.
