Frank Giannino, Author at Frank’s Custom Shoe-Fitting

Why Orthotics Fail

Want to know why orthotics fail? Watch this video…

Many times over the years I’ve heard many new customers say…

“The old custom orthotics I had done somewhere else don’t work.”

Or they’ll say…

“The orthotics I have never worked and it was just a waste of money.”

In a lot of situations, they’re absolutely right.

That’s because their orthotics failed them.

And when I look at their orthotics it’s pretty easy to see why.

Many times the mold in their customer orthotics is wrong.

Or the over-the-counter orthotic is the wrong type for their foot.

But there is also one BIG reason why orthotics fail that most people never take into consideration.

And no, it’s not the person or business that provided their last pair.

Although, sometimes it is.

It has to do with their foot, and the shoes that they’re using with their orthotics.

And in the video above, you’ll see exactly what it is with their foot and shoes that causes many over-the-counter orthotics, and custom ones to not work for them.

If you’re thinking about getting a pair it’s important to understand why orthotics fail so that way you know exactly what to look for.

If you’d like some help finding or choosing what would be right for your feet, then scroll down and

Many times over the years, I’ve heard many new customers say…

“The old custom orthotics I had done somewhere else don’t work.”

Or they’ll say…

“The orthotics I have never worked, and it was just a waste of money.”

In a lot of situations, they’re absolutely right.

That’s because their orthotics failed them.

And when I look at their orthotics, it’s pretty easy to see why.

Many times, the mold in their custom orthotics is wrong.

Or the over-the-counter orthotic is the wrong type for their foot.

But there is also one BIG reason why orthotics fail that most people never take into consideration.

And no, it’s not the person or business that provided their last pair.

Although, sometimes it is.

It has to do with their foot and the shoes that they’re using with their orthotics.

And in the video above, you’ll see exactly what it is with their foot and shoes that causes many over-the-counter and custom orthotics to not work for them.

If you’re thinking about getting a pair, it’s important to understand why orthotics fail so that you know exactly what to look for.

If you’d like some help finding or choosing what’s right for your feet, then scroll down and schedule an appointment.

This will ensure that you don’t end up with a pair that are wrong for you.

A Typical Big-Box Shoe Store Experience

So I had a little experiment done recently.

I had someone I trust head on over to a big-box shoe store to buy a pair of shoes.

I asked them to report back to me what the experience was like.

And what they reported back to me was something I wanted to share with you.

But before I share it…

Just be aware that it’s a little long, but definitely worth the read.

And it’s kind of funny.

So here it is.

My Big-Box Shoe Store Experience

“The first thing I noticed was the number of shoes they had on display.

There were a lot to choose from.

But getting any help from an employee was like trying to find a gas station when your car is running on fumes. They’re nowhere to be found.

Once you track down an employee, they just ask what shoe you are interested in and what size.

Then they scan the shoe and tell you if it’s in stock.

If it’s not in stock, they don’t make any other recommendations. They just stare at you and wait for you to say something.

And that’s it.

Luckily, they had my size (or what I thought would fit) in stock.

Then the employee turned and walked away without saying anything else.

So there I was, just standing there with no idea what was going on.

Five minutes go by, then ten minutes.

And all of a sudden, another employee appeared through these doors, carrying a stack of about 10 shoe boxes.

He was even pulling a wagon with more boxes in it.

What happened next was really interesting.

It was like you were in a shark tank and someone dropped food into it.

People from all corners of the shoe department swarmed this employee with a vengeance.

His face was priceless.

It was a mix of annoyance and a mix of, “Holy hell, back up before I start throwing shoes at you.”

It was actually funny.

What wasn’t funny was that he had the job of trying to figure out which one of those shoe boxes went to which person.

While I was waiting for him to find my shoes, I realized how this store operates.

You find your shoe, you tell an employee what shoe and size you want to try on, and they send a message to another employee in the stock room to bring that shoe out.

And they wait in the stock room until they get a bunch of shoe requests. That way, they can make one trip instead of multiple.

This means it takes quite a while for anyone who is waiting to try on the shoes.

And the people around me were getting frustrated. Especially the ones with kids.

So once this employee appeared through the door, people jumped on him.

Do you know what it was like?

It was like when you’re on a plane and it taxis up to the gate and the captain turns off the seat belt sign.

Everyone gets out of their seat, but then they stand in the aisle for 10 minutes, go nowhere, and get annoyed.

Then, once the line starts moving, it’s a mad dash to get your carry-on luggage out of the overhead bin so you don’t anger the people behind you even more.

Anyway, back to the report.

Once I got the shoe, I tried it on and walked around a bit.

Of course, the shoe didn’t fit.

So what did I have to do?

I had to wait 7 minutes until I saw another employee.

When I did, I started to approach him.

Then, out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a bunch of other people doing the same.

As I walked faster to get to the employee, they did the same.

That’s where my race-walking powers kicked in.

I felt like I had to get there first.

Unfortunately, we all arrived at the same time and then had to wait until he got to each one of us.

At no time did he ask how he could help us. It was just, “What shoe and size are you looking for?

If you had questions about the shoe as I did, he would simply look down at his handheld device and look for the answer.

Which he didn’t have unless it was what was in stock.

Luckily for me, they had the same shoe in a different color (that I liked) in the next size up.

So I told him to bring that one out.

And of course, the waiting cycle repeated itself until my happy face emerged from the stock room.

After fighting off the soccer moms and the angry teenagers, I was finally able to get the shoes.

Oh, and I forgot to mention that there were so many people that I had to walk to a completely different section of the shoe department just to find space to try the shoes on.

As I got them on, I realized they fit better.

But I still had questions about other shoes that were similar and how those would be.

Although, after dealing with all of this, I just wanted to get my shoes on and get out of there.

Unfortunately, there were two small issues

One was that I still had the first pair of shoes I tried on.

I didn’t know what to do with them.

There was no one around, and I didn’t know if I should just leave them where they were or not.

So I had to wait again.

The second issue was that the checkout wasn’t in the shoe department.

I didn’t know if I paid someone in the shoe department or had to walk to the other end of the store to pay.

Eventually, the mythical employee graced me with his presence, and I handed him the box of shoes that didn’t fit, and he told me where to pay.

So in the end, that was my experience.

It is something I don’t ever want to do again.

At no time was there any significant help, nor did I feel like I was even cared for.

But it did make me realize a few things.

This store didn’t have (or couldn’t find) enough employees.
These employees were just order takers.
Even if employees could help, they had zero knowledge about the shoes, let alone answer in-depth questions.
The general population really needs help being educated about shoes and what options are right for them.
If you have even the slightest foot issue, NEVER, EVER go to a store like this.
People think this is a normal shoe-buying experience in this type of store. They are willing to wait, get no help, and take whatever they’re given. Even if it’s wrong for them.
It made me appreciate so much more what you offer and do for people.

So to wrap all this up, I won’t be getting shoes from a store like this again.

The experience was almost worse than going to the DMV.

Although it would be interesting if the DMV sold shoes. It would probably be the same experience as the big-box store.

Anyway, I hope this was helpful for you.”

So there you have it.

That was quite a report, huh?

I did laugh when he called the one employee Mr. Happy Face.

The sad truth is that this is not an uncommon experience. Especially on busy days.

But there is one thing I can promise you if you visit here:

I will help you, I will answer any questions you have, and I will work with you to find the perfect solution.

And if that sounds even slightly better than going through the big-box shoe store experience…

Then I’ll be here when you’re ready.

How To Alleviate Top Of Foot Pain With This Lacing Technique

Let’s talk a little bit about how to alleviate top-of-foot pain. We’ve all experienced it at one time or another when we’ve tied our shoes too tight and the laces are pressing down on the top of the foot.

When that happens, you loosen the laces, and it feels better.

But some people have a high instep.

This means that they have a thicker foot from the arch to the top of the foot.

This thickness adds more pressure against the tongue of the shoe and the laces.

This causes constant pressure, pain, and hot spots.

So just loosening the laces doesn’t remove the pain.

So you have to do something different.

And that means relacing the shoe in a different way so it removes any pressure from the top of the foot.

In the video above, I’ll walk you through a lacing technique that will do exactly that.

It’s quite different from the standard lacing that we all know.

But it works really well to alleviate top-of-foot pain that you can experience, especially if you have a high instep.

So take a look at the video, then lace your shoes just like it shows, and see how much it helps.

And if you still have pain, then scroll down and schedule an appointment so we can find the solution.

How Shoe Offset And Width Can Hurt Your Feet

Did you know that shoe offset and width can hurt your feet?

Let’s explain.

Shoe offset is the height difference from the heel to the toe. The bigger the offset, the higher the heel, and vice versa.

The width of the shoe is pretty self-explanatory.

In this situation, we are focusing specifically on the toe box.

That’s the area where the toes sit in your shoe.

When that is too narrow, that can also lead to not just pain but structural issues in the foot.

So the offset and width play a crucial role with your feet.

In this video, you’ll see exactly what the offset and width can do, and how you can tell whether a shoe is too narrow for your foot just by using the insole.

And if you’re currently in pain and you have tried just about everything else, scroll down to the calendar below and schedule an appointment.

You’ll be taken through a simple process that will help alleviate your pain, so you can feel better in no time.

How To Know Your Shoes Are The Wrong Size

Do you know if your shoes are the wrong size?

It may seem obvious when the shoe is tight or loose, but there are a few other key ways to know for sure if the shoe doesn’t fit.

And just so you know, you could have the perfect size, but that still doesn’t mean it fits right.

In the video you see above, you’ll learn a few other major ways to pinpoint whether your shoes are the wrong size.

If you’d like to know for sure if your shoes are the right size, scroll down and select a time in the calendar to schedule an appointment.

We’ll take you through our shoe-fitting process and help you find the perfect size for you.

Also, we will address any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.

What’s The Secret To Our Orthotics?

Today we’re going to talk about what the secret to our orthotics is.

In the world of foot orthotics there is no shortage of ways that podiatrists, pedorthists, and other prosthetic professionals use to create orthotics.

As technology advances there is a bigger push to rely on digital processes.

And here at the store we’ve used and tried just about every thing out there to try and create the perfect orthotic.

But after thousands of happy customers, we have one process that works better than anything else we’ve tried.

And that process is using the slipper cast method.

Now, this method isn’t anything new.

In fact, it’s been around quite a while and it’s messy, and can take a bit of time.

But the way we’re doing it here at the store, and then how the actual orthotic is made is the key.

And in the video on this page, you’ll see how this process is done, and the secret to how our orthotics are made.

Video Highlights

– 00:03 Experimenting with different insert ideas and orthotic companies for 28 years.

– 00:06 Encountered Labs that generate subortholene and other plastic types.

– 00:16 Found Labs that offer three-dimensional foot scans.

– 00:24 Explored heated moldable type inserts that mold to your foot.

– 00:33 Northwest Podiatric Laboratory excels in this field.

– 00:39 Northwest Podiatric Laboratory is the time-tested model for other orthotic systems.

– 00:48 Precise casting process capturing the perfect shape of the foot.

– 00:57 Using the sub Taylor ankle joint neutral position for the foot cast.

– 01:16 Deep Freeze molding process creates the most ideal orthotic shape.

– 01:39 Orthotics from Northwest Podiatric Laboratory have prevented arthritic conditions.

If you are in pain or in need or custom orthotics, scroll down to schedule an appointment.

Red Wing Boots Overview

So we now have Red Wing boots!!!

In this video, you’ll see an overview of a few of the models we have in stock.

You’ll learn a bit about the…

Red Wing King Toe Boot

The 606/608

Logger boots

And one of their Moc toe boots.

We’ll even dive into a few of the different features of each of the boots, and what makes each model different.

One of the things we’ve realized when it comes to finding good work boots locally, there is a void.

So we’ve stocked up quite a bit to fill that void, and Red Wing is the latest brand we’ve brought in.

Also, we work with larger companies to provide work boots for them and accept vouchers.

So if you’re looking for Red Wing boots, we’ve got them.

To try a pair on, scroll down and schedule an appointment.

Superfeet Black Versus Blue Orthotics

Today, we are going to dive into the Superfeet black versus blue orthotics breakdown.

Like the previous articles and videos we did…

Superfeet green versus orange

Superfeet green versus blue

I will explain the differences between the two and what type of feet work best with them.

You’ll also learn about when to use the black orthotics versus the blue ones.

To see the full comparison, make sure to watch the video above.

And if you’d like to see the breakdown and some more details of what is included in the Superfeet black versus blue orthotics video, take a look at this.

– The Black Orthotic is the thinnest and lowest volume with stabilizing pillars in the back.
– The Blue Orthotic has a plain pane system to accommodate the arch.
– Both arches are broad across the middle and very light and shallow.
– The Blue Orthotic is recommended for cleated situations like soccer and football.
– The Black Orthotic is a universal option for lower-volume shoes.
– Both orthotics are recommended for flatter lower-arched foot types.

Lastly, if you’d like to try blue or black orthotics, scroll down and schedule an appointment.

Superfeet Green Versus Blue Orthotics

Today we’re diving into Superfeet Green versus Superfeet Blue orthotics and what the differences are.

Just like in the previous post about Superfeet green versus orange insoles, you’ll learn which type of foot will work better with these.

You’ll also see how the activities that you participate in will play a role in determining which one is best for you.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s in the video above.

Green is the #2 seller, and blue is the #3
The green orthotic has a deeper cup, a tighter belly, and steeper arches.
Blue tends to be broader in the arch and a little shallower in the cup.
Green goes well with a higher to normal arch, and blue works well with a normal to lower arch.
Green is suitable for running and walking with a normal to high arch.
Green’s tighter fit across the belly and the more generous arch are great for cleated use.
Blue is good for court sports because of its broader arch and shallower heel.
The difference between the two is specific to their use.

So in this battle between the Superfeet green versus blue orthotic, there are some key factors that you have to know about your feet so that you can choose the right one.

To know for sure what those factors are, scroll down and schedule an appointment. In that appointment, we’ll go through the type of foot you have, and which orthotic would be best for you.

Superfeet Green Vs Orange Insoles

Today we’re going to dive into Superfeet green vs orange insoles and what the differences are between the two.

You’ll also learn the type of feet that would match best with these.

If you didn’t know, Superfeet is one of the most popular orthotic brands you can find.

They have a variety of styles and fits that are all color coordinated.

And the green and orange are some of their more popular styles.

To learn which one is better for certain feet, we’re doing the Superfeet green vs orange comparison.

Below is a more detailed breakdown of the two orthotics.

The orange insert has more forefoot cushioning, a deeper heel cup, and a more aggressive arch than the green insert, which has a patented orthotic form with wide sides and a deep heel cup.

Both provide wide arches and narrow heels that effectively align the lower limb, which is advantageous for the knees, hips, and back.

A person with a higher arch and a narrower heel who desires better response from the ankle to the knee, hip, and back may benefit from the orange insert.

But to really know for sure which one is right for your feet, you’ll have to try them.

To do that, scroll down, and schedule an appointment.

If you want to learn how Superfeet orthotics compare to Dr. Scholls, click here.

If you want to see how they compare to Powerstep orthotics, click here.

Video Summary:

Green and orange Superfeet are over-the-counter footbeds with different features
Green insert has a patented orthotic shape with a deep heel cup and narrower sides
Orange insert has added forefoot cushioning, deeper heel cup and more aggressive arch support
Both Superfeet help align the lower extremity better for positive effects on knees, hips and back
Recommended for people with higher arches, narrower heels, and looking for better reaction on ankles, knees, hips, and back

How To Stop Heel Slip

Want to know how to stop heel slip?

Check out the video below…

One of the biggest challenges people have when it comes to new shoes or boots is heel slippage.

The boot or shoe could be the correct length for your foot, but as soon as you try it on, you notice that your heel slips.

That’s something you don’t want to happen.

One big reason why is it can make existing foot issues worse. It can change the entire dynamic of how your foot moves. The more that happens, the worse the issues become. It could even cause foot issues that didn’t exist before.

Blisters are just one small example of what can pop up.

When your heel slips, it’s generally a sign that the shoe isn’t the right fit for you. It could be that the shoe is simply the wrong size, the toe box is too big, or the shoe is too wide.

There is a whole host of reasons why your heel could slip.

Whatever the reason, you want to lock your heel in place.

And the most important part of that is to make sure the shoes fit the right way when you buy them.

That’s why it’s so important to go through an actual shoe-fitting process, and not just order a pair of shoes sight unseen online.

But what do you do if you already have shoes and your heels are slipping?

Well, in the video on this page, I go into a few strategies you can use that will help with this issue.

Now, if you are still dealing with this issue, and have tried everything in this video, then there’s something else going on that needs to be looked at.

If that’s the case, scroll down below and schedule a time with me so we can get everything squared away.

In the meantime, make sure you try the techniques in the video.

Filling The Boot Void

Let’s talk a little bit about filling the boot void. First, what do we mean by the “boot void”?

Well, over the past few years with COVID and what it’s done to the shoe industry, a bunch of local stores were forced to close.

Many of those stores had work boots. Since those stores are no longer around, it has been harder for people to find work boots locally.

More and more have turned to the internet to find the boots which has helped, but there has been one big challenge with that.

That is, people have no idea if the boots will fit and how they will feel.

So it’s become a shot in the dark. When they order the boots, they’re hoping the boots will fit and be comfortable.

But they’ll only know that once the boots arrive.

Plus, depending on the boot, the company, and where the boots are ordered from, it could take quite a while for the boots to be delivered.

It’s only once they arrive and they try the boots on will the person know if the boots are right or not.

If the boots don’t fit, they have to send them back and wait for the replacements to arrive. Which can be a real pain. And there’s no guarantee that those will fit or feel any better.

What can make it even more challenging is that boots are not like sneakers. They are rigid, stiff, and can have a much longer break-in period.

So the fit and feel of a boot is that much more important. Especially when trying them for the first time.

To help with all of this, we’ve been focused on filling the boot void.

We have more work boots in stock than ever before, in all sorts of different brands and styles.

And in the video above, you’ll see how we are filling that void, and you will see some of the different types of work boots we offer.

So if you need work boots that are high-quality, comfortable, and easy to get, we’ve got them. There’s no worrying about whether or not a boot will fit or if it will hurt your feet.

We have multiple brands and styles that you can try on, and you’ll know instantly which boot is right for you.

If you’d like to see what we have, and want to try the work boots on, scroll down and schedule an appointment.

That way we can make sure you end up with exactly what you want.

Video Breakdown Of Filling The Boot Void

“Filling the Void Left By Traditional Retailers: Meeting The Need For Work Boots In Our Area”

One of the things I want to talk about today is how we are trying to meet the need for work boots in our area, now that many traditional retailers are no longer distributing them. We have added a wide variety of work boots to our inventory, including hikers, loggers, and light hikers, all of which are waterproof, slip-resistant, and have a variety of souls.

Hiker Work Boots

We have a wide selection of hikers, including those with and without safety toes, and many are oil-resistant and are weatherproof. People tend to prefer the lightweight comp toe, as it is easier to wear on the job.

Logger Work Boots

We also have a variety of logger work boots, which come in a variety of colors and with or without steel. These boots are made in the USA, and are great for those who need a rugged soul but balanced on high bars.

Traditional Boots

We have been selling boots by Danner for a long time, which are great for those who need a more traditional soul but with a balanced heel. We also have a selection of boots by Thorogood, which are great for those high-steel guys who need that indoor soul.

To try these on scroll down and schedule an appointment.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis And What Helps It?

So what is plantar fasciitis? Well, in short, it’s one of the most common causes of foot pain. It’s estimated to impact around 2 million people in the United States each year. And one-in-ten people will have to deal with it during their lifetime.

As for who gets it…

Anyone can develop it. It’s not just runners or athletes. Although there is a higher likelihood of developing it if you’re active.

It is most common in people between the ages of 40-60, and obesity has been found to be a factor because of the added weight and stress placed on the ligaments and tendons of the feet.

If you have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis is there anything related to shoes that can help?

Absolutely, and the video above will break down what to look for and what to stay away from if you’re dealing with it.

Plus, the video will explain what is going on with your foot and how that is triggering the issues.

So if you’d like to know more about what plantar fasciitis is and what you can do about it, make sure you watch the video.

If you need further help with this issue, then click here to schedule an appointment with us.

Mephisto Harrison Review

Today I have the Mephisto Harrison Review.

Just like the other Mephisto shoes that I carry, such as the…

And the Romea…

The Harrison’s are extremely high-quality.

As well as the other models, they are also hand-made.

And you’ll be able to see the quality and things such as double stitching, brass eyelets, and quality leather in the video.

On top of that, the Harrisons are also pretty comfortable.

And this is a big deal…

They are stylish, and they look really nice.

Oh, there is one other important thing to know.

That is, they run large.

So you will probably have to size down at least one size if not more.

In fact, I am two sizes smaller in some of their shoes.

So these are definitely a pair of shoes you will want to try on to know for sure.

And if you’d like to try them on, scroll down to the calendar below and schedule a time to come in.

I’m pretty sure that you’ll like these shoes.

To learn a bit more, make sure you watch the Mephisto Harrison review video above.

Powerstep Inserts Versus Superfeet Inserts

Today we’re going to dive into PowerStep inserts versus Superfeet inserts.

Just like shoe companies, each insert company approaches how they do things a little bit differently.

Both PowerStep and Superfeet have been around for quite a while.

They are two of the bigger players in the market.

Between the two companies, there are quite a few different offerings with their inserts.

That allows them to cater to various types of feet and/or issues.

And in the video on this page, I break down the approach these two companies take with their inserts, and…

What makes them different.

Even though I’ve carried Superfeet for over 20 years, I wanted to bring PowerStep into the mix because they provide a good product.

And their inserts have been able to help quite a few people.

If you want to know more about the PowerStep inserts versus Superfeet inserts, check out the video on this page.

And if you’d like to see which would be better for your feet, schedule an appointment by using the calendar below.

Mephisto Ylona Review

Today we’re diving into the Mephisto Ylona Review. This is the fourth shoe in the Mephisto video series.

Up to this point, we’ve done reviews of the Mephisto…

Edlef

Raine

And Twain.

All of these have either been slip-on shoes or boots.

But the Ylona is different and it’s specifically for women.

It’s the first “sneaker” that I’m reviewing for Mephisto.

And it’s not just a lace-up sneaker but also zips up as well.

Which you’ll see more about in the video.

To see all the other features of this shoe and why it’s a good one, check out the Mephisto Ylona review video above.

If you’d like to try a pair of the Ylona’s, then click here to schedule an appointment.

Mephisto Twain Review

This is the Mephisto Twain review. Just like the overviews of the Mephisto Raine, and Edlef we are going to break down the top features of this shoe and what makes it a high-quality shoe.

The Twain is specifically for men and it’s similar to the Edlef in that it is a slip-on shoe. It’s a casual shoe, and is quite stylish.

To learn more, make sure you watch the video.

And if you’d like to try a pair on, set up an appointment by choosing a day and time with the calendar below.

Mephisto Raine Review

Here is the Mephisto Raine Review.

This is the 2nd review video of the Mephisto brand shoes that are in the store.

If you’d like to see the first review video of the Mephisto Edlef, click here.

As for the Raine, it’s a bit different. It’s not a shoe, it’s a boot. And it’s made for women.

And this boot is not the “rough and tumble” utility boot like the Danner Vicious, or Hoss Bronc.

The Raine is more of a casual ankle boot.

And in the Mephisto Raine review, you’ll learn about some of the features and benefits of the Raine and what makes it a good boot.

So check it out.

If you’d like to try a pair on, click here to schedule an appointment, or scroll down and use the calendar below.

Mephisto Edlef Shoe Review

Today we’re diving into the Mephisto Edlef shoe review. In this quick overview, you’ll learn about what makes this loafer a higher-quality shoe.

We will dive into the stitching, the insole, what type of support the Edlef has, and the style.

If you’d like to try the Edlef you can click here to make an appointment or scroll down to the calendar below and select a day and time.

With that appointment, you can get a professional shoe fitting that will help you determine the perfect size.

You will also learn what can enhance the fit of the Edlef shoe and we can look into any foot pain issues if you’re having them.

But before you schedule an appointment, make sure to watch the Mephisto Edlef shoe review first.

How Shoes Should Fit

Let’s talk about how shoes should fit. The first thing to know is that most people are wearing the wrong size shoe.

Most of the foot problems I see stem from shoes that are the wrong size for a person’s foot.

So knowing how shoes should fit can prevent quite a bit of potential foot problems down the road.

The other thing to know is that the fitting process involves a bit more than just making sure you have room at the end of the shoe.

You have to know the size of your foot.

That means not just the length.

You have to consider the width.

And you have to see if you have a thick foot or not.

That’s not all.

To dive into the rest of it, I put together a short video above that shows how shoes should fit.

That will show you how the process works, and what you should look for when trying on new shoes.

Knowing this will teach you how to find shoes that work for your feet.

But if you want the perfect fit, then you can always schedule an appointment with me so we can go through a shoe-fitting assessment.

Once we go through that, we can try different shoes, see what works best for your foot, and then go from there.

Either way, knowing how shoes should fit is the key to happy feet.

So make sure you watch the video.

And if you want help with any of this, feel free to schedule an appointment by clicking here or using the calendar below.

When To Replace Orthotics

Customers are always asking about when to replace orthotics.

They also ask about how to maintain and clean them so they can get the most out of them.

Well, the good news is that the technology and materials have improved over the years so a good pair of custom orthotics won’t just fall apart like they did years ago.

Of course, if you maintain them and clean them that goes a long way to keep them in great shape.

That being said how do we know when to replace orthotics?

In the video above I go into when to replace them…

And the simple ways to maintain and clean them.

I think you may be surprised by what you learn about this.

You’ll even get to see my personal pair of orthotics and what I do with them so I can get the most out of them.

So if you want to know when to replace orthotics and how to keep the ones you have clean make sure you watch the video above.

If you need orthotics please schedule an appointment by using the calendar below.

Are Slipper Cast Orthotics Better Than 3D Scans, Foam Impressions, And Other Types?

Are slipper cast orthotics the best, or are the foam, 3D scans, or other types better? Well, the first thing to know is as technology improves there will be more options for you to choose from.

But having all the options to choose from when getting orthotics will make it a bit more challenging to know what works best.

So in the video above, you’ll learn about which type of orthotic process is the best to create the most accurate orthotic.

Just in case you’re not sure what slipper cast orthotics are, that’s where plaster is wrapped around the foot, and then a bag is placed over everything, and the air is removed.

This creates a pressure mold of your foot.

The 3D scan orthotics process is exactly what it sounds like. A digital scan is made of your foot. From there, an orthotic is created based on that scan.

The foam process is generally where the foot is pressed into foam which leaves an impression. Then an orthotic is made from that impression.

There are also pressure mats, and other types of devices that you can stand on that create impressions of your feet.

As you can see, there are a lot of options.

So is the slipper cast orthotic the best? Or is it the 3D scan or other methods?

Check out the video to find out what will be best for your foot.

If you are looking for orthotics or are in any foot pain, feel free to schedule a consultation below.

Dr. Scholl’s Versus Superfeet Inserts – Which Are Better?

Who do you think would win in a battle between Dr. Scholl’s versus Superfeet inserts? Well, that’s what this video is all about.

Both companies are trying to solve the same issues. But each company approaches it from a different perspective.

In general, Dr. Scholl’s inserts focus on “cushion,” whereas Superfeet focuses more on the shape.

What is meant by “shape” is that the Superfeet inserts are designed around the shape of the foot.

And in this video , you’ll see how the shape and the cushion play a role in benefiting the foot.

On top of that, you’ll learn how the foot operates and how the inserts truly help the feet.

If you’re having foot pain then you’ll definitely want an insert that works with your foot.

If you’d like to stop by the store and see how we can help with any foot problems, or would like to try the inserts, then schedule an appointment below.

Lowa Renegade Boot Overview

Here is a quick overview of Lowa Boots. Specifically, I’ll be talking a bit about the Renegade model in the video above.

You’ll see what some of the features are that really make this boot stand out.

So if you want to know more about Lowa boots, and some on the Renegade model check out this video.

If you want to try a pair on in the store schedule an appointment below

Dunham Lawrence Overview

The Dunham Lawrence is a great boot. The video you’ll see above will be a quick overview of the features that make this boot stand out.

If you’re looking for a great boot, this may just be the one for you.

Check out the video to learn a bit more.

If you’d like to try a pair on just scroll down and schedule an appointment below.

Dunham Cloud Overview

Want to know a bit about the Dunham Cloud boots? Here is a quick overview of what the boot is all about.

You’ll discover some of the main features that make this boot really stand out.

So check out the video above to learn a bit more about the boot.

If you’d like to try a pair on schedule an appointment below.

The Shoe Breakdown – What We Carry

For years we were known as just a “running shoe” store. As time went on things evolved and different types of shoes would be added to the inventory.

Now, we cover all sorts of different types of shoes, styles, ranges, and so on.

There’s pretty much a shoe for any person.

And in the video you see here, I break down a bunch of different shoes that are actually carried here at the store.

It’ll give a good idea of what you’ll find here, and also even go into some of the “niche” specialty shoes.

So take a look at it.

Oh, and one last thing…

What you see here just scratches the surface.

There’s a lot more, I just wanted to keep the video from being too long.

If you want to try on any of the shoes you see in the video just scroll down and schedule an appointment.

What You Need To Know About Medical Shoes

The medical shoe segment of the footwear industry is a BIG one.

But it’s not one you hear too much about unless you have a specific medical or foot issue.

That being said…

A lot more attention should be paid to it because so many people are helped by it.

So I wanted to do a medical shoe overview or breakdown of what it’s all about and what is available.

This overview is important because there are quite a few people who can be helped by these shoes but don’t know where to start.

That’s because it’s not marketed or advertised as much as the “normal shoes.”

But there are quite a few options that can help with all sorts of foot and medical issues as you’ll see in the video.

And some of the shoes they’ve created are pretty cool.

Over the years they’ve even improved the look of the shoes as well so they’re not just the big ugly shoe that many of us think of when we think of medical shoes.

So if you’re curious about medical shoes or think you may need some this video will be perfect for you.

Even if you don’t need medical shoes the video is worth a watch because you’ll see how even the name brands can be used as medical shoes.

If you’d like to see what’s available here at the store or try some of them on then scroll down and schedule an appointment.

Altra Lone Peak 5 Review And Basic History

Above is a quick video that is the Altra Lone Peak 5 review. Plus, you’ll learn a little bit of history around Altra and how it came to be.

The interesting thing is the founders of Altra were asked to give advice about business and they both said “do not go into the shoe business.”

They never realized how tough of a journey it would be but they ended up creating the Altra brand which has become very popular, especially among the minimal community.

In the video you’ll see why I like this shoe and why it has benefits not just for people in the minimal community.

So check it out.

And if you want to try a pair on or are having foot pain or shoe related problems then just schedule an appointment below.

On Cloudace Shoe Review

The video above is the On Cloudace shoe review. This is a VERY short and quick video that will highight the benefits and features of the shoe.

I’ve been carrying the On brand at the store for a while now and it’s been solid. There are quite a few customers who love not just the On brand but the Cloudace as well. It’s definitely a different type of shoe, and has a different look from most others out there, but it is a GOOD shoe.

So if you want to see the biggest benefits and features of the Cloudace check out the video above.

And if you’d like to try a pair on, scroll down below and schedule an appointment. We’ll go through a full fitting proces so you can see what the Cloud Ace feels like and to see if it’s the right shoe for you.

Why Stiff Shoes Are Good!!!

It may sound a bit backward but stiff shoes are good. Most of the time, we think if we’re having foot pain or issues that a softer shoe will help.

And in some cases, it will. It always depends on the person.

But in general, stiff shoes are a good thing.

Think of shoes as the foundation to support your feet.

If you build a house and put the foundation on soft ground, or sand, then you’re house is going to have A LOT of problems.

The same goes for your feet.

Soft shoes are like a weak foundation.

So stiff shoes will be better for most people out there.

Now, when we say “stiff” we don’t mean stiff as a board, with no flex.

We mean shoes that offer solid support.

And in the video above you’ll see what type of shoes are good, plus you’ll see how important these stiffer shoes are in keeping your feet supported, happy, and healthy.

Lastly, if you’re having foot pain and need help determining what the issue is and want to alleviate that pain then schedule an appointment below.

What Makes A Shoe Good?

So what makes a shoe good? Ever walk into a shoe store or shop around online and actually ask yourself, “what makes a shoe good?”

Well, after being in the shoe industry for over 40 years what I’ve found is that most people shop for shoes based on what they need the shoe for first. It could be work, running, a casual event, etc.

Then once that is determined the next 3 criteria that decides what shoe they get are…

Fashion
Fashion
Fashion

Then, it’s finding the shoe in their size.

Which, a lot of times is usually the wrong size.

If they are looking at the shoe in person, then they’ll try it on and hope it fits.

And a lot of times the shoe won’t fit, but they like the look of it so much that they buy it anyway.

If they buy it online, they won’t even be able to try it on first. But they’ll buy it anyway and hope it fits.

If not, they’ll convince themselves it fits “good enough” or they’ll return it.

Almost nowhere in the shoe buying process do they stop to ask, “what makes a shoe good?”

But this question should be asked right after you determine what you need the shoes for.

Here’s the catch though…

Since shoe companies are not in the business of educating their customers most consumers don’t know what makes a shoe good.

So the video above, will explain the major areas for you to focus on to determine what makes a shoe good.

If you know what to look for, you’ll know more than 95% of the shoe buying population.

How The Foot Works With Shoes And Inserts

How the foot works and actually allows us to move around the way that we do is pretty amazing. It has to deal with constant pressure, uneven surfaces, and support the rest of your body. And it has to do that every waking minute for a lifetime.

So it makes sense that over time having some foot problems isn’t that uncommon.

But once those foot problems pop up, knowing how to fix them can be a tricky situation for you.

So understanding how the foot actually works is important.

Then knowing how shoes and inserts interact with your foot to provide a solution is the key.

In the video above you’ll see how the foot works with shoes and inserts to make everything play well together.

Everything You Need To Know About Shoes, Inserts, And Orthotics

A huge part of the process here at the store is helping to educate customers when it comes to shoes, inserts, and orthotics.

Normally, when you walk into any big box shoe store you’ll get a kid who brings out a pair of shoes when you tell them your shoe size.

Maybe they’ll put your foot in a measuring device (Brannock) but that’s about it.

So when you need real help with your feet there are a lot of unknowns and not too many reliable places to turn.

That’s why knowing what to look for shoes and inserts is so important.

And the video above is basic breakdown of that education process.

You’ll learn about…

How to know the basics of what a quality shoe is.
The different types of inserts and how to tell them apart.
And the custom orthotic process.

So if you want to know everything about the shoe, insert, and orthotic process check out the video.

And if you need help with any of this or are in pain schedule an appointment by using the calendar below.

How New Balance Shoes Are Made

This is a fascinating video that show how New Balance shoes are made. The interesting part is that it’s not all automated and a bunch of robots making the shoes.. There are actually multiple people that play a role in creating each shoe.

That’s one big reason why New Balance shoes are considered higher quality.

Not only that, there are 5 factories across Maine and Massachusetts that help to make the shoes.

Oh, and one other interesting note about this video…

You’ll learn what some of the model numbers actually mean.

So if you ever wanted to know how New Balance shoes are made you’ll like this video.

And if you’d like to try on a pair of New Balance shoes you can schedule an appointment by scrolling down and using the calendar below.

I hope to see you soon.