The Story Behind Merrell Shoes and How They Came to Be

You’ve loved Merrell boots for years, but how much do you know about the company’s history? While the brand has not been around as long as some of the competition, the evolution of Mer-rell is one that will help you appreciate those boots even more. Here are some of the things you should know about the Merrell Company and why it will continue to be around for a long time.

In the Beginning

Merrell shoewear has been around since 1981, but the story actually begins a little before that. Randy Merrell al-ready had experience in the footwear industry. Specifically, he was trained in the art of shoe making. he decided to take that training and try his hand at coming up with designs for hand-made cowboy boots. The response got him to thinking: what about starting a company that could offer great hiking boots?

With his reputation, it didn’t take long for word to spread through the industry. When he decid-ed to team up with John Schweizer and Clark Matis to form Merrell Shoes, they had a winning combination. Randy brought his experience in the industry up to that point. Clark was an all- American Olympian with experience in the ski industry. John was also a professional athlete with an eye for performance and comfort.

Each brought additional skills and abilities to the table. Design was Randy’s forte. Clark had pro-duction management experience along with a talent for marketing. John understood how to run a business and had connections that would serve the new enterprise well. By combining their talents, they came up with ways to design and market boots that quickly developed a reputation for quality, comfort, and support.

One factor that set their boots apart from the rest was the pricing. While not compromising on quality, they were able to produce the boots at more cost-effective rates. Some of that savings was passed on to customers in the form of more affordable prices.

New Owners

By 1986, the company had sold it’s 25,000th pair of boots. While the company was successful, Randy wanted to move away from the hectic schedule and get back to the basics of designing custom boots. After he sold his shares, it was just a matter of time before a major player in the industry made an offer for the company as a whole.

Karhu was that player and the acquisition was completed the following year. Production was moved to Asia and the expanded manufacturing process allowed the company to continue grow-ing. During the calendar year of 1988, Merrell shoes for sale exceeded the $4 million USD mark for the first time in the company’s history.

During the 1990‘s, the company became a truly international enterprise. Divisions remained in the United States and were joined by facilities in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Scandinavia. The company continued to maintain facilities in several parts of Asia.

1997 saw the company being acquired by Wolverine. Like Josef Seibel shoes, Merrell continued to expand under new ownership, eventually becoming available in more than 150 countries around the world.

Reaching Milestones in the 21st Century

The new century sees the company continuing to reach new heights. Along with boots, the company now offers a like of Merrell women’s shoes and Merrell sandals for men and women. Different types of apparel are now sold under the brand. For the first time ever, annual sales exceeded $20 million USD in calendar year 2010.

While the history of Merrell is fascinating, it’s not completely written yet. Keep enjoying those boots, shoes, and sandals. While you are at it, watch for the next big thing from this company. You may find even more reasons to keep buying their products.

Top 5 Things You Should Know About Ara Shoes

Creating the right type of footwear for women requires more than replicating the styles already on the market. It involves paying close attention to the design elements, the feel, and the quality of the final product. The team at Ara Shoes know this and have come up with a winning approach. That’s why they pay so much attention to every aspect of the production of Ara shoes for women. From Ara shoes for the workplace to Ara boots designed for warmth as well as appearance, the quality control process leaves no facet of the design or production process unaddressed.

If you’ve never tried a pair of Ara shoes before, it’s time to change that. Here are a few things you should know about this brand and what it has to offer.

They’ve Been Around for a Long Time

Did you know that Ara shoes have been around for almost eight decades? That’s a long time to participate in any industry. When it comes to footwear, the longevity lets consumers know the company knows what they are doing. Through all the changes in tastes and styles over the years, the company continues to come up with designs that please the eye, feel great on the feet, and motivate customers to keep coming back.

Quite a few things have changed since the first half of the 20th century. There are different methods for shoe production today. Over the years, options for materials have opened up a world of possibilities for manufacturers as well as customers. Enhancements to quality control have made it possible for manufacturers like Ara to maintain and sometimes even exceed the level of quality that allowed them to become leaders in the industry. All of those benefits are passed on directly to you.

The team designing Ara shoes and Ara boots don’t just follow whatever fad is emerging. In some cases, the company has been in the forefront of tapping into trends that are projected to be around for a long time. Combining traditional design elements with new ones that provide a contemporary look isn’t always easy. In fact, many competitors have tried and failed. Part of the success of Ara shoes for women is the combination of high quality and incorporation of new design elements that ensure last year’s footwear will still look great this year.

Plenty of Casual Designs

You’ll find that Ara shoes offer a number of designs that work well with all your casual outfits. From beautiful springtime prints to fun tops and shorts in the summer and all the way to cozy sweaters for the autumn, Ara will have footwear that fits right in. You think of the season and the occasion, and there’s at least one Ara casual design that will look perfect with the outfit.

One of the hallmarks of Ara shoes for women is that the casual styles are designed to allow your feet to breathe. This doesn’t mean the feet are not covered adequately for any activity you have in mind. It just means that on the hottest day of summer, you can expect the feet to remain comfortable.

This quality found in Ara shoes also holds true with Ara boots. When you want something suitable to wear in the autumn or the winter and they need to have a more casual look, you can rest assured your feet will remain comfortable and warm. Even so, the air circulating around your feet keep them from feeling dried out no matter how low the temperature should become.

Whatever the time of year, think of Ara shoes for women as your ideal solution for casual footwear in any season. It’s not just a matter of finding one pair of footwear to carry you through the winter, spring, summer, or fall. You can find several options that will work for any time of year that one can imagine, In other words, you can’t go wrong when you choose Ara.

There’s Business and Formal Designs Too

There are also plenty of Ara shoes that will work perfectly with your business attire. From beautiful and stylish heels to ankle and knee length boots, you will have no trouble coming up with footwear that looks great with all your office outfits. When you need something that will dress up an outfit on a casual day, there are business casual designs that will do the job.

The designs for business footwear will work in a number of different settings. Perhaps you work in an office that is very conservative when it comes to business attire. You will find Ara shoes that fit right in with the dark colours and simplistic styling that is often considered ideal in such a setting. Whether your office dress code requires that you wear dresses, business skirts with matching blazers, or darker colours that are considered more traditional, there will be at least a few pairs of Ara shoes that will work with everything in your collection of business attire.

For those who work in what is normally called a business casual setting, there are plenty of designs and colours for Ara boots to consider. The colour selection will be a little more varied, and the opportunity to invest in a pair of shoes that fit the dress code and still have a few additional design elements is definitely there.

Some of the designs will also take you to more formal occasions. If you have a wedding reception to attend, a formal business dinner, or some other event that calls for dressing up, rest assured that Ara has what you need.

The goal of Ara shoes for women is to ensure that there is never any question about what sort of footwear is right for the occasion. From shoes or boots that you wear on a daily basis to those that only come out when some special occasion occurs, Ara has you covered.

Style and Comfort Together

All that style does not mean you have to sacrifice comfort. When you slip on a pair of Ara shoes, be prepared to enjoy plenty of arch support. The cushioning eases stress on the soles. The closed-toe designs also provide plenty of space in the toe boxes, allowing your toes just enough room to feel comfortable. Thanks to the high quality construction and choice of materials, you can enjoy the comfort for a long time.

Wrap all that support and comfort in an exterior that includes classic designs suitable for all sorts of occasions. The more classic styles ensure that you have something on hand that will work with just about any outfit one can imagine. Your collection of Ara shoes will provide a timeless look to the outfit and signal everyone in a subtle way that you do know what it means to dress tastefully.

You’ll also find styles for Ara boots and shoes that are up to the minute in terms of style. While never crossing over into the realm of being a fad, these options for Ara boots and shoes blend traditional elements with contemporary ones in a way that is sure to please the eye. Instead of being able to wear them for a single season, many of these designs will remain in vogue for several years. That’s a feat that few competitors can achieve and certainly makes different styles of Ara shoes for women an important part of your wardrobe.

Some of the Best Prices in the Industry

One look at the pricing for Ara shoes and you will realize how favorably the cost compares with other brands. When you factor in how well the shoes wear and the amount of use you will get from them, the deal is all the better.

Unlike some competitors who release budget lines and select lesser materials for those lower-priced offerings, you can trust that your new pair of Ara shoes or Ara boots are made using the same high-quality materials and with the same care as the rest of the company’s offerings. This is important since you can depend on Ara shoes for women providing all the benefits that you expect in terms of quality, support, and comfort.

When you factor in the potential to find a pair of Ara shoes that are currently on sale, that good deal just became even better. Along with running company-wide sales from time to time, it’s not unusual for selected online outlets to offer flash sales or even season specials that make the competitive pricing even better. Think of how nice it is to visit your favourite shoe outlet and find that one or more pairs of shoes by Ara are currently on sale. Even if you won’t be wearing one of those pairs until next season, buying them now is definitely worth the time and investment.

Why wait any longer? Try your first pair of Ara shoes and see what you think. Remember to take a look at different styles of Ara boots as well. It won’t be long until you decide that owning a few more pair of Ara shoes is a great idea that you will be proud of having for a long time to come.

7 Reasons Why Dental Professionals Need Comfortable Footwear

Wearing comfortable shoes in the workplace, especially if you are a dentist or other staff member, is one of the smartest moves you can make. While you do want to project a professional image, that doesn’t mean your feet have to suffer. If you think that choosing footwear for looks only and with no regard for cushioning and support, consider these seven reasons for wearing only comfortable shoes. At least a couple of them are bound to apply to you.

Avoid Feet Tingling During the Workday

Shoes that are too tight, have no spare room in the toe box, and offer no real support will eventually lead to some degree of nerve damage. Many people note that the first signs of trouble appear when they notice a slight tingling between the big toe and the next toe. If you keep wearing those shoes, the tingling will occur sooner in the day and spread to other areas of the foot. Head off this problem by finding comfortable shoes that look fine with your uniform and fit properly.

Minimize Leg Pain

Being on your feet most of the day takes a toll. That’s especially true when you’re walking on hard surfaces and keeping a brisk pace between exam rooms. Eventually, you’ll notice that your lower legs are beginning to ache a bit. Since sitting down for a time is not always possible, the best solution is to choose comfortable shoes for dentists that prevent the leg pain in the first place.

A More Confident Gait

Patients look to dentists and other staff members for reassurance that root canals, extractions, and other procedures will go well. It’s hard to maintain an air of confidence when your shoes hurt the feet. Instead of being able to confidently stride through the office and present an image of perfect composure, you find yourself limping or holding onto the wall as you make your way from room to room. For the sake of your patients as well as yourself, go out any buy some sort of dentist footwear that will help you set and maintain the right impression.

Less Opportunity for Blisters

No one is fan of blisters. They hurt even after you apply ointment to them. Continued irritation to the blistered area will only make things worse. They may become so irritated that they pop. When that happens, you’re really in for a full dose of pain.

If you are tired of having to place adhesive bandages over your blisters before slipping on your shoes for work, it’s time to dump the old pair and find something new. This time, place more emphasis on support, proper size, and cushioning and less on how trendy those new shoes happen to be.

One Less Reason for Fatigue

You’re tired at the work day, and it’s not just because of difficult patients or being on the run for most of your eight hours. It’s not even the time you had to stand for an hour or so while taking care of a patient. Your choice of footwear has a lot to do with the fatigue.

Since you chose to go with shoes that look great but offer little in the way of support, your legs got tired. That in turn put a greater strain on the rest of the body. By the time the last patient goes home, even your brain feels worn out. Before enduring another day like that, spend some time finding dentists shoes that will ease the stress on your feet and in turn the rest of your body. It’ll make quitting time even more pleasant.

Keep Your Mood Balanced

Have you ever made the connection between physical discomfort and your mood? The fact is that if your feet are hurting, your legs are aching, and your lower back is beginning to feel the effects of those attractive but bad choice of shoes, it’s only a matter of time before your happy mood is out the door.

Will comfortable boots for a dentist really make a difference? The only way to know for sure is to buy a new pair that’s comfortable and takes the stress off your feet and legs. In a day or two, you’ll notice that little things don’t bother you as much, and it’s easier to exercise patience with a co-worker or a patient who would get on your last nerve in the past.

You Can Still Go Out After Work

A whole day of wearing uncomfortable shoes doesn’t leave much energy for anything after work. The only thing you want to do is get to the car, take off those horrible shoes, and drive home. At best, stopping at a fast food place and placing an order at the drive-through window is the sole after work activity you want to engage in.

Along with the lack of safety that comes with driving without shoes, there is no reason why you have to put off errands or meeting friends for a drink or meal until the weekend. Buy a pair of new work shoes that provide the right amount of support and gently massage your feet throughout the day. You’ll find that when it’s time to go home, you feel up to going out for a little while first.

Your feet are intended to last a lifetime. Why create hardship by wearing shoes that may look great but could cause short-term pain and long-term problems with them? If you find that it’s necessary to soak your feet every night, it’s time to make some changes. Compare different types of shoes that are in line with the office dress code, choose a pair known for high quality and plenty of support, and add them to your collection. After wearing them for a week, you’ll be amazed at the difference.

These 3 New Sorel Styles Will Be Big in 2018

As Sorel nears it’s 60th anniversary, the brand shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, 2018 promises to be another year of exciting designs that will surely please their loyal customers. If you are planning on purchasing something for yourself or for someone you love, it pays to know more about what Sorel has in store for the coming year. Here are three exciting styles that will sure to please.

These 3 New Sorel Styles Will Be Big in 2018

Boots for the Discriminating Woman

Boots have long been an area that few brands can do as well as Sorel. The styles for the upcoming year are no exception. You will find that a pair of Sorel womens boots are ideal for just about any setting one can imagine.

For the active woman who loves to be outside, there is no doubt that Sorel’s Whitney line is the ideal choice. You’ll find color options that range from basic black to red. The easy lace up design makes it simple to ensure the boots are snug without being overly tight. You’ll find that the liners are just right for keeping your feet warm even when you have to trudge through the snow or ice.

Best of all, you will find the Whitney line is one of the most affordable designs on the market. The quality will easily match or exceed anything else you find in stores or online. Add in the fact that the shells resist staining and are easy to keep clean, and you have a true winner for the coming year.

Shoes for Any Occasion

Even if your plans are to be in the city during the colder months, you still want to look your best. Women who need something that offers ample protection with a bit of style will want to check out the Winter Fancy in black. Made using full-grain leather, the fleece lining provides a hundred grams of insulation. The addition of a rubber outsole helps make it easier to remain upright on slippery surfaces and also alleviates the shock on your legs as you make your way to and from the office. Of all the Sorel shoes on the market, this is one that you definitely want to have on hand in 2018.

There’s Something for the Guys Too!

There are also Sorel mens boots that you can check out. The Buxton lace-up is definitely the type of rugged and practical boot that men will need during the winter. Considered a durable snow boot, it offers all the protection you will need to deal with ice and snow. With 200 grams of insulation, the boot is lighter than you would think, making it all the more comfortable to wear even if you are not out in the snow. The upper is made using waterproof suede that gently wraps around the ankle for support without limiting the range of motion. The molded thermal-rubber shell ensures that your feet remain warm in temperatures as low as -32 °C. This is one boot that will see plenty of use until warm weather returns.

Why wait any longer? Many of the top Sorel options for the coming year are on sale now. Take a look at these and other designs and see which ones are right for you. By the time the New Year arrives, you will have the right shoes and boots for any type of winter weather.

Check Out What’s New for the New Year from Geox, Rockport, New Balance, and More!

The New Year will be here soon and that’s reason enough to invest in new shoes or boots. There will be plenty of excellent choices in the year to come. In fact, some of them are already available and waiting for you right now! Here are some brands and styles that you can order today and be all set to step out in style during the year to come.

Check Out What's New for the New Year from Geox, Rockport, New Balance, and More!

Geox

For over 20 years, Geox had offered top of the line shoes for casual and other occasions. One of the hottest tickets in the coming year will be the brand’s line of casual shoes for women. While always an excellent choice for support, the styles are classic enough to fit in with any casual outfit while having that little extra that sets them apart from the rest.

Take a look at the Nebula line for women’s casual shoes. Unlike the typical color ranges, you’ll find choices that are ideal for customizing an outfit. Consider going with the coral or taupe as a way to dress your look a little. If those aren’t quite what you had in mind, take a look at the Nebula in a beautiful shade whimsically named watersea.

You will also find some great choices for Geox mens shoes. The casual designs are great for the golf course, taking a walk, running errands on a weekend, and hanging out with friends. Designed for comfort as well as style, you will find basic colors like black and white. The Nebula line for men offers selections in navy blue and an attractive grey. All the casual men’s shoes will look great with jeans. The Nebula in black is also a good choice for casual day at the office.

Women who are interested in a new pair of heels will find plenty to consider. The Callie is available in black and taupe and sports beautiful lines that end in a pointed toe. If something with a lower heel is your preference, check out the Floralie or the Jamiolah in basic black. Any of these options will be ideal for work and are stylish enough to dress up your casual outfit if you like.

New Balance

With over a century of experience, the folks at New Balance Shoes know how to make casual fun and practical at the same time. Perhaps your plans for the New Year include getting back into shape. You’ll find that this brand offers some excellent choices for running shoes. Take a look at what the W990GL3 and W990GL3 in grey suede has to offer. You’ll have plenty of heel support as well as support for your arches. The cushioning ensures that your feet and legs are not jarred as you make your way around a jogging track or run along the sidewalk.

If you are in the market for a great pair of men’s running shoes, you’ll find the same designs offered for the guys. Also available in grey suede, they offer style as well as comfort as you walk and run your way to better health. The M3040BK1 in black is also a running shoe that will take you from the track straight into the gym if you want to follow your run with a quick workout

Rockport

Rockport has long been one of the most sought after brands when it comes to shoes for the workplace. You can easily find something for just about any taste. When it comes to shoes for men, you can go with the traditional look of the TM Dress Cap in black. This simple lace-up style will work with just about any type of office attire you can imagine. For those who would like a slightly more contemporary touch, consider the RSL 5 SO in black. The clean lines will blend right in and offer plenty of comfort as you go about your day.

Your typical Rockport shoes outlet will also have plenty of choices for women. A favorite that is sure to remain in style in the coming year is the Rashel Buckle in stone. With a medium heel, this low boot sports just enough ornamentation to be interesting, but not enough to take away from the rest of your outfit. If you would prefer a lower heel, consider the Sharleen MJ in black. Don’t let the open design fool you; this shoe will provide plenty of support during the workday. Once you leave the office, this shoe is comfortable enough to wear while you have dinner with friends or take care of some quick shopping on the way home.

Other Footwear You Need for the New Year

Along with these excellent choices, there are other brands and styles to consider. Depending on what you have in mind, you can go with something that’s colorful, simplistic, ornate, or classic. All it takes is knowing where to look and how that style will fit in with your plans.

Cobb Hill offers a delightful selection of boots for women. From short and sassy to designs that will be perfect for a weekend at a ski lodge, you can find all sorts of colors that are sure to please. Teal, blue teal, spruce, and red are just some of the options you can consider. Almond and black are there to give you options that will look great at work and do equally well with any of your winter casual outfits. Some of the boots are lined and will be great for cold weather. Others have thinner liners and will be ideal for the spring and autumn.

Now is the perfect time to think about what you would like to wear in the coming year. Spend some time checking out the newest offerings from these and other fine companies. No matter what the occasion, it won’t take long to find a pair of shoes or boots that will be look great, provide plenty of support, and fit neatly into your budget.

4 Reasons Birkenstocks Remain Popular

Since the first pair of Birkenstocks appeared on the market in 1774, they’ve been a staple in many wardrobes. There are people who would not think of getting by without owning at least one pair. The enduring popularity of the brand is no fluke. In fact, there are some solid reasons why Birkenstocks thrive when so many other brands have fallen by the wayside. Here are a few reasons to ponder.

4 Reasons Birkenstocks Remain Popular

The Comfort Factor

Ask anyone who owns a pair of these shoes why they like them and comfort will be mentioned. People who have difficulty finding footwear that offers support and feels good at the same time often turn to this brand. Imagine what it would be like to stand all day and have to deal with the stress on your legs, ankles, and feet. Thanks to the way this brand fits the contours of the feet so well, a lot of the pressure is alleviated.

During the day, you will notice that your feet don’t seem to hurt and your legs don’t get as tired. That goes a long way toward making it easier to remain on your feet and get the job done. The fact that their feet don’t hurt at the end of the day endears them to the shoes and ensures they will always be in the market for one more pair.

Imitated But Never Matched

There is no doubt that many other manufacturers have attempting to duplicate the look and success of Birkenstock. So far, none of them have managed to undermine this brand to any great degree.

Some have tried to imitate the look and come close. Unfortunately, they rarely come close to providing the same level of comfort. Manufacturers who do manage to make their offerings comfortable don’t quite capture the design and support offered by Birkenstock.

Without a doubt, others will try. If the past is any indication, they may come up with close imitations but never anything that is better.

Remembering the Good Old Days

Many people buy their first pair of Birkenstocks early in life. That sets a pattern for all the years to come. Every time they slip on a pair, their minds are taken back to days past when things seemed to be so much simpler.

It’s not unusual for Birkenstocks to conjure up memories of the teenage years or the college years. Some may associate them with meeting a future spouse or wearing them for certain activities. Few brands have the power to trigger nostalgia the way Birkenstock can bring back the good old days.

The Quality

Along with comfort and support, the fact that Birkenstock doesn’t use inferior materials is a huge plus. In an age when many things are considered disposable, having something that is dependable and lasts for years is a treat. The fact that they are easy to care for and will remain in great shape for decades makes them worth every penny.

If you have never tried a pair of Birkenstocks, now is the time to change that. Once you do, there will be no going back.

Top 4 Reasons to Spend More For Higher Quality Shoes and Boots

Finding a cheap pair of shoes is easy. All you have to do is look inside any discount store to find just about any style one can imagine. The problem with those less costly shoes is that they are cheap in more than one way. You would do well to spend your hard-earned money on footwear that is higher in quality. Here is what you will get by sticking with something that costs a little more but provides a wider range of benefits.

Top 4 Reasons to Spend More For Higher Quality Shoes and Boots

Designed With Care

Cheap shoes do come in plenty of attractive designs. In spite of the style, there no guarantees about how well the design will hold up. Many of those inexpensive shoes are made using processes that leave little time for quality control. The result is that seams may split, accessories may become loose, and heels may begin to separate.

With higher quality choices like Sorel shoes for men & women, you can rest assured that the designs do involve attention to detail. Before the footwear is offered to the public, the designs undergo rigorous testing to ensure nothing will work loose, split, or fail due to normal wear and tear. That means you won’t have to worry about your dress shoes beginning to come apart in the middle of an important business presentation.

Better Materials

It’s not all about the design. You want shoes or boots that are made using the best materials. You can rest assured they provide the comfort necessary to get you through any type of weather. They will also protect your feet from the elements without any apparent damage to the material.

You could try to save money and go with something that seems to offer comfort and protection, but what happens when the shoes begin to hurt after a month or so? Will you still be happy with the purchase if the shell does not protect your feet from the rain or allows your feet to freeze during the colder seasons?

Instead of running the risk of ending up with low quality footwear, go with something like the Joan of Arc Sorel boots. You’ll love how the material feels and the ways it protects your feet.

Enhanced Fit

There’s a definite difference between cheap shoes that do not offer proper support and better shoes that gently cushion your feet and keep the arches in alignment. Try wearing a cheap pair for one day and notice your your feet feel. Do the shoes seem to rub against toes and the instep? Perhaps they aren’t as snug as you would like or they are too snug.

Now try wearing a better quality pair of shoes for a day. Notice how they fit without pinching. You’ll find they don’t rub the heel or your instep, but they do offer arch support that keeps your feet and legs from growing tired as the day progresses. If you don’t see any other value in spending more for quality shoes, this one feature will make the cost worth it.

Longer Lasting

Did you know that one pair of higher quality shoes can outlast three or even four pair of cheap shoes? Add the cost of several pair of discount shoes and compare that to what you will pay for one higher quality pair. You will immediately see how spending more up front saves a lot of money.

Your feet are too important to skimp on quality. Take a look at different styles today and go with a brand known for excellent quality. You will find the investment is worth every penny.

4 Essential Qualities Active People Want in Winter Boots

Everyone needs at least one pair of winter boots. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors during the colder months require boots designed for more than walking the short distances from heated vehicles to their front doors. If you work outside or like to spend time outdoors during the winter, there are a few qualities your boots must provide. Here are some examples.

Top 4 Signs You Need a New Pair of Winter Boots Now

They Must Be Comfortable

Active people who are on their feet most of the day need boots that provide a lot of comfort. During the winter months, it’s not just about providing good arch support. There’s also the need to keep the cold away from the feet.

Along with a durable shell that prevents exposure to moisture, you also want thick liners that trap the heat inside. Many people find that Sorel Caribou Wool liners are ideal. The material does keep the feet warm while still allowing the air to circulate. That helps to reduce perspiration and avoid the clammy feeling that would otherwise result.

They Must Offer Plenty of Support

Proper support is important on more than one level. Boots that support the natural contours of your feet do help to ease the stress that comes with being up and around for most of the day. At the same time, that support also makes it easier to remain upright when you walk across snow or ice.

A proper sole combined with arch support makes it easier to keep your balance. The sole provides the traction needed to find your way across slippery surfaces while the arch support makes it easier to balance your weight and the weight of anything you are carrying. The result is reduced potential for an accident and less chance that your legs will feel tired at the end of the day.

They Must Be Easy to Maintain

No one wants to spend hours cleaning a pair of boots. Choosing a design that includes a durable shell is the answer. From natural materials to synthetics, there are options on the market that can be cleaned easily. You’ll fully appreciate that quality the first time you need to remove semi-frozen mud or slush from the bottoms and sides of the boots.

The Price Must Be Right

Not everyone has unlimited funds to invest in new boots. While you want a pair that provides all the qualities you need, finding something that is in your price range matters too. One way to find the perfect solution is to focus on brands with a reputation for high quality and reasonable prices. Take a look at what Sorel has to offer. You are likely to find more than one pair that’s right for you.

Remember that the ideal pair of winter boots will protect your feet in all sorts of weather. Think about how much time you spend outside and what sort of activities you engage in each day. Doing so will make it easier to evaluate different designs and settle on the one that’s will get you all the way to spring.

4 Reasons Why You Should Choose Winter Boots With Care

Winter is on the way. Are you prepared? Specifically, do you have at least one pair of winter boots that will get you through the season? If not, now is the time to start looking. As you compare different brands, remember that grabbing the first pair you see will not do. Put some thought into what you want and it will be easier to find the right boots. Here are some examples to help you get started.

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You Want to Keep Your Feet Warm

When you come across a pair of boots that seem to be right, take a good look at the materials used in the construction. Your first concern is the type of shell used for the boot. Is is made using something that will not absorb moisture as you walk through the snow? Ideally, the shell will repel moisture and help keep your feet dry. That quality will go a long way toward preventing the feet from getting cold.

The next feature you should consider is the type and quality of the lining. Is it made of materials that will hold your body heat in while keeping the cold at bay? Synthetic as well as natural fibers may be used for the liners. As long as they are rated highly, your feet will remain warm even when the temperature dips into the negative range.

Remember that choosing a design with removable liners is a good idea. Make sure the manufacturer offers replacement sets that you can insert when the liners need to be laundered. That ensures you always have a set that smells fresh and prevents your feet from getting cold.

You Want to Remain Upright

Another feature that the new winter boots must provide is sufficient traction. Attempting to walk on icy sidewalks when you are in a hurry is dangerous, especially when your footwear does not grip the surface that well. As you begin to compare different types of high quality footwear for cold seasons, take a good look at the boot design’s outer sole. Will it provide a reasonable amount of traction and keep you from landing in a heap on the sidewalk? If so, that pair is worth considering further.

You Want to Avoid Leg Pain at the End of the Day

Proper arch support is another must for your new pair of winter boots. You want the design to provide more than cushioning that helps to absorb the shock of walking across hard surfaces. The support to your arches will also help minimize the impact of being on your feet all day. When you arrive at home each night, your legs and feet won’t feet fatigued. There is also less potential for you to develop cramps that keep you from sleeping.

You Want Something That Cleans Easily

Winter boots are exposed to quite a bit of dirt and grime. It won’t take long until you need to clean them in order to remove some of the residue collected during the day. Make sure the shell of those new Sorel winter boots can be cleaned quickly and easily. Doing so ensures that you always have a pair that looks fresh and ready to go in the morning.

While appearance is important, your choice of winter boots should offer more. Pay close attention to the way the boots look, feel, the support they provide, and the potential to keep your feet safe from the elements. With a little time and effort, you can find a pair that will serve you well for the entire season.

5 Reasons Why a Pair of Keen Shoes is Perfect for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

As the brainchild of Rory Fuerst and Martin Keen, Keen shoes came into being in response to a question: “Can a sandal protect your toes?” The duo set out to answer that question and came up with a solution. Founded in 2003, the brand is popular in many areas of the world today. Part of the appeal is the way the shoes are ideal for all sorts of outdoor activities. Here are five of the qualities that make them such a hit with customers.

5 Reasons Why a Pair of Keen Shoes is Perfect for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Plenty of Support

Many outdoor sports and other activities call for spending a lot of time on your feet. It makes sense that you would want footwear designed to provide lots of support. Like Naturalizer shoes, Keen designs offer what it takes to ensure your feet do not begin to ache as the day wears on, even when you are involved in strenuous outdoor activities.

Support for your arches and other parts of the feet play a significant role in how your lower legs feel throughout the day. By reducing stress on your feet, you minimize the possibility of cramped muscles or pains that keep you awake at night. Who wants to spend the day enjoying a camping trip only to be up all night with aching legs?

Remember that your goal is to enjoy your outdoor activities and possibly use them to keep fit. Taking proper care of your feet now will reduce the potential for problems in later years. By choosing a brand that provides plenty of arch and other forms of support, you will spend less time with a podiatrist in the decades to come.

Comfortable Fit

Next to support, comfort is often one of the most important factors in choosing a shoe brand and design. With this one, you can rest assured that the ideal combination of protection and comfort is included. Your feet will feel as if someone is gently massaging them as you walk or run. Even if you are attempting to scale a hill, the shoes will still conform to your feet and make you almost forget that you are wearing any type of footwear.

Think of what this means when you are enjoying outdoor activities like a run in the morning or evening. The shoes have enough cushioning to absorb the shock of running on pavement. If you happen to run in a local park or are in a wooded area for your run, they will also provide the cushioning needed to absorb the shock of running across densely packed earth.

Allowing the Feet to Breathe

One of the reasons the shoes feel so comfortable is that they do not restrict air circulation around your feet. That can be important when you are enjoying some sort of outdoor activity. Instead of the feet feeling overheated, they will remain at a comfortable temperature.

Have you ever been in the middle of doing something fun and found that you hated the moist sensation that seemed to be trapped in your shoes? The degree of air circulation that the Keen designs allow also minimizes perspiration. That’s important since it helps to reduce the amount of foot odor. You’ll find that this feature is much like the circulation benefits that come with brands like Hunter shoes. At the end of the day when you pull off your shoes, the fact that you don’t have to set them outside to air out will be a plus.

Sturdy Construction

No one likes to buy new shoes for outdoor workouts and other activities every few months. You need footwear that is constructed using materials that hold up well to a lot of use. The fact that the shoes also provide protection because of the sturdy materials is also a plus.

Consider what you need with a pair of hiking boots. The soles must be capable of providing support and protection as you move over rocky terrain. The upper part of the shoe must be strong enough to protect your feet from brambles and other types of flora in the area. You also want a design and construction that will protect your feet from changes in the temperature. With KEEN, you get all of these qualities and more.

The same is true if you are looking for a quality pair of walking or running shoes. You need the construction to hold up well in all sorts of weather conditions. Whether it’s the middle of summer or in the dead of winter, the footwear must protect your feet, provide the traction necessary to avoid slipping, and allow your feet to move naturally. Shoes that provide all of these qualities will allow you to get more from that walk or run and eliminate the need to buy replacements every few months.

An Affordable Cost

You don’t mind paying a little more for footwear that is easy to clean and holds up well to a lot of use. While there are brands out there that provide what you need, some of them come with higher prices. Wouldn’t you like to invest in a pair that offers the same high quality but happens to come with a more affordable price tag?

With Keen, you can purchase shoes that will last for a long time and will not break the bank. You actually benefit financially in two different ways. The first is the initial purchase price. Since it is so reasonable, you save money on the front end. You also get the benefit of having footwear that outlasts many of the other brands on the market. When you get to wear the same pair twice as long as some of those competing brands and the cost is more affordable, you certainly get your money’s worth, plus a little more.

Never settle for a lesser brand when you can have quality paired with a great price. Take the time to learn more about Keen shoes today and compare the different styles they offer. You will have no problem finding shoes that are perfect for whatever outdoor activities you enjoy on a regular basis.