Barking Dog Shoes

Soul of Africa Shoes: My Review

Two weeks ago I featured Soul of Africa shoes and even ordered a pair for myself. I've been wearing my new tangerine Umfowethu's to the store, playground and around the house for the last 14 days. Aside from being shoes with a good cause, they are incredibly comfortable. While the shoe is handstitched by previously unemployed South African women, the actual sole was designed by Froggie Shoes of South Africa.

All Froggie shoes have a unique gel cushioning technology that was created by a leading podiatrist. I can definitely feel this layer of extra cushion with every step.

I'm not sure what possessed me to order bright orange shoes, but I figure the louder the shoe, the more inquiries into the Soul of Africa initiative, and that's a good thing.

Bunion-Friendly Shoes Part 2: Not Your Grandma's Orthopedic Shoes

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

After scouring customer comments at Zappos and relying on my own experience with bunions, I've collected eight shoes (from dressy to casual) that received highest acclaim for relieving pain. I am by no means endorsing any one pair as the cure for bunion pain as I'm not a podiatrist. These are suggestions of shoes that could work for you and your problem feet. Remember, if you're dealing with Zappos, you can always return/exchange for free.

• Gentle Souls (by Kenneth Cole) Struttin' Sally: Anonymous from Denver, CO says, "I have a problem with bunions, but since the leather is so soft and supple, I can forget the bunions exist." $164
• Clarks Henna: Jean S. from San Diego, CA, " This pair works because they are cut higher up on the inside allowing the leather to completely cover the bunion instead of cutting into it." $74
• Ros Hommerson Angelina:  Customers like the soft leather as it doesn't irritate the bunion. $79
• Onex Puffy: Anonymous from Fullerton, CA states, "They are really comfortable...I have problem feet...flat arches, bunions, plantar fasciitis..." $74
• Dansko Lotus: Anonymous from Vermont, "This one is magic, plenty of room for bunions or tender spots. " $124
• Naturalizer Creston: Anonymous from Colorado, "These are so soft my bunions and arthritis don't bother me." $69
• Keen Isabella: Anonymous from NC says, "I have a bunion and can't wear too many kinds of shoes, but this one is great." $96
• Mephisto Allrounder Niro: Many customers like how this walking shoe fits comfortably over bunions and has a roomy toe box. Comes in many fun color combinations. $169

Do you have a special shoe that looks great and accomodates your pesky bunions? Please leave a comment and share with the rest of us!

Related Post: Stylish Shoes for Bunions

Frye Cheryl Triple Ring Clog: $29.99 at Soft Surroundings Outlet

If you're a size 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7 or 9.5, head on over to the Soft Surroundings Outlet to pick up a pair of Frye Cheryl Triple Ring clogs for $29.99 (marked down from $148).  While you're over there, check out the discount jewelry, handbags and home decor.

Prada Crisscross Wedge vs. Naturalizer Wow Wedge

Most true Prada fashionistas would never deign to wear Naturalizer, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to feature these two (dare I say?) similar wedge slingbacks. Is there really a difference in cork quality? It's CORK for cryin' out loud!

Although I do favor the delicate metallic straps of the Prada, for $500 less the wider bands on the Naturalizer will do just fine.

Naturalizer Wow Sandal: $69.95 at Shoes.com with free shipping and returns. Use promo code MARSAVE  for  10% off any purchase until the end of March.

One More Time with the Bunny Shoes: Hoppy Easter!

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping down the bunny trail. Hippity Hoppity, Easter's on its way!

Happy Easter to All!


Shoes courtesy of BC Footwear