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Why Best Shoe Lists Don’t Work

Ever see those ‘best shoe lists’ on the internet? You know the type, the top 10 best running shoes or the 5 best snow boots.

Well, they are easy to consume, and easy to read but they’re not always great when it comes to finding the right shoe for you.

So I put together a really quick video explaining why and what you should really look for in “the best shoe.”

Check it out below.

And if you’d like help finding the ‘best shoe’ for you scholl down and schedule an appointment.

You’ll be taken through our in-depth shoe fitting process where we’ll address any foot pain issues you may be having, and help you find the right shoes.

Rikki G.’s Customer Spotlight

Today we want to take a minute to spotlight Rikki G.

Over the years Rikki has had to overcome quite a few challenges with foot pain. In her spotlight video above, you’ll see how she went from almost giving up to getting her entire life back. It’s a great story, so watch the video above.

Meet Rikki

Rikki was born without a hip socket. Over her life it has caused some issues. But it wasn’t until a few years ago when foot pain started to show up. And when it did, it got worse very quickly.

So Rikki did what most people do when they start to have foot pain.

✅ She tried pain relievers like lidocaine.

✅ She used a heating pad.

✅ Different insoles.

✅ Knee braces because the pain started impacting her knees.

She even went to a physical therapist that professional athletes go to.

But no matter what she tried or who she saw, the pain never got any better.

It got so bad that she could barely move around her house and go up and down steps.

Just to do that, she had to use a cane.

And so she began to feel like “less of a person” and started wondering if life was “worthwhile anymore.”

It got so bad that she realized she couldn’t live in her house anymore and was actively searching for a new ranch-style home.

That way she wouldn’t have to deal with steps.

Her home was her sanctuary. It was where she was happiest, and it was her favorite place to be.

So the thought of giving up her home was devastating.

The final straw was when she and her friends had a big trip planned, and Rikki was thinking of cancelling because she didn’t want to be in pain and hold her friends back.

Right about this time, Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting was recommended to her.

Rikki was a little skeptical that Frank could help her because nothing else worked for her.

But she gave it a try.

Rikki’s Shoe-Fitting Experience

When Rikki came in and met Frank, she realized very quickly that this was going to be a different experience.

She immediately noticed the individual attention and care she was getting. Plus, she was getting an education on why her feet were having the problems they were having.

The thing that stuck out the most was when Frank watched her walk he knew immediately what the problem was.

And then he recommended that she needs a specific brand and type of shoe.

No doctor, no physical therapist ever recommended that to her.

Rikki said…

“I am stunned that no one ever told me that I was in the wrong kind of shoe. Not the doctors, not the physical therapists, no one.”

From there it was recommended that Rikki have a custom orthotic created.

Once the orthotic was created, there was one final piece that needed to be added to the shoes.

That was a splint/lift.

The moment that was added with the orthotic and the shoe…

Rikki’s pain drifted away.

Her pain, which was once above a ten and more like a 15 when she walked, was now a zero.

Now she could not only walk without pain…

She could go up and down steps…

Go to the stores…

And live her life without even thinking about the pain.

Plus, she no longer needed any pain relievers, braces, or patches and even stopped using her cane.

The best part was…

She didn’t have to sell her house and feels like herself again.

As Rikki said…

“Frank has changed my life.”

And as for the trip she was going to cancel…

She went on that trip, had a fantastic time, and walked an average of 10,000 steps a day without any issues.

What Can You Do If You Are Experiencing Pain Like Rikki?

If you have foot pain that won’t go away no matter what you try, then Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting can help.

Frank’s has helped thousands of people find relief from foot pain.

They’ve delt with everything from basic aches and pains to issues like plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, and everything else in between.

So if you’re tired of dealing with foot pain, then schedule a consultation with Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting by using the calendar below.

What Can You Put Inside Of A Shoe?

Most shoes on the market today have some sort of built-in or added cushion. Well, some dress shoes don’t, but others do. That being said, if there’s already cushioning then what can go inside of a shoe?

In the video below, we’ll explore some of the other options to help the shoe not just fit better but also help if there are some foot issues going on.

As you know, the human foot is a complex structure. It acts like a tripod, with 26 moving parts. This allows you to stay stable and move efficiently.

The problem is, most of today’s shoes don’t support this. They’re very “flat” on the inside.

Because of this, a lot of times your shoes can cause all sorts of problems and cause you to feel unstable.

If that’s the case, you will need extra support.

So then, what can you put inside of a shoe to help?

The first thing is…

An Over-The-Counter Insert

The over-the-counter insert is exactly what it sounds like. You buy any insert from a store and slide it into the shoe.

Two popular brands are Currex and Superfeet.

Depending on the brand, they can come in a range of sizes and shapes.

Also, some focus more on arch support, while others focus more on cushioning.

The challenge with the OTC inserts is that they’re generic and made for many people and may not work for your feet.

If you’re someone that needs a more specific solution to put in your shoe, then you’ll want to look into…

Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are specifically designed for your feet.

The orthotics that we make are high-quality and are extremely durable. In fact, the orthotic itself (not the top cover) can last most of your life.

The top cover can be made of different materials, such as EVA, neoprene, and even microsuede, and will have to be replaced once it’s worn down.

There is also a protective bottom cover that we add to give it even more durability.

Not only that, but we can add things such as a heel post for stability, a scaphoid or medial overlay to help the arch, and even a metatarsal bar for support towards the front of the foot.

Once the custom orthotic is completed, you can put it inside your shoe, and it will help with your specific foot issue.

The Importance Of Quality Materials

It’s crucial to use good materials for orthotics. Cheap plastics can break down quickly. They don’t provide the right support.

High-quality components are essential for the orthotic to be effective.

Lastly, investing in good materials means a better solution for your feet.

The Role of Filler and The Final Fit

Another thing you can put inside of a shoe is what is called “filler.” This is a layer of foam or EVA.

This layer can be thin, like a sixteenth of an inch, or thicker.

Sometimes we’ll even place custom orthotics on top of the shoe’s original insole to make sure there is a snug fit.

Because the goal is for your foot to feel “secure but not cramped.”

And to make sure your toes have plenty of room.

In the end, standard shoes often don’t support your feet properly.

The chances are you will have to put something inside your shoes.

If you need help figuring out what would be best, scroll down below and schedule an appointment.

That way we can give you the personalized attention you need and will help find the perfect solution to put inside your shoes.

What’s The Difference Between Walking Shoes And Running Shoes?

Did you know there are differences between walking shoes and running shoes? Some of the differences are minor, others are pretty significant. In the video below, you’ll see what’s different, plus, you’ll even learn a bit about boots for walking.

Let’s start by breaking down the different kinds of running shoes.

Running shoes are built to give you the most support, cushioning, and flexibility for high-impact movement. They fall into a few general categories, each designed to address different needs and desires.

The first category is…

Mainstream Running Shoes

Mainstream running shoes are the majority of what you see on store shelves. They’re what most people picture when they think “running shoe.”

They typically have about an 8mm heel-to-toe drop—i.e., the heel is a little higher than the front. These shoes are produced by large sports companies like Nike, Adidas, Brooks, New Balance, ASICS, Saucony, and Puma.

These shoes tend to have nylon uppers that provide ventilation and different midsole types.

One midsole type is cushioned to be comfortable.

The second type is cushioned with added arch support for more stability.

Mainstream sneakers are good for daily runs, casual workouts, or general fitness training.

They come in diverse levels of flex, thus allowing consumers to select a shoe depending on how they stride and their comfort needs.

The next category is…

Concept Running Shoes!

These shoes value efficiency and biomechanics and lean more toward depending on innovative elements.

For example…

Hoka and their Meta Rocker Technology

Their shoes typically have a meta rocker—an arcing sole that propels you forward. This encourages a more symmetrical gait and less effort on runs. Hoka shoes often have nylon uppers and a “J-Frame” construction, supporting the arch and heel of the foot.

Altra and Zero-Drop Design

Altra is famous for its zero-drop shoes in the sense that the toe and heel are even. This encourages a natural landing for the foot and more proper alignment. They have spacious toe boxes, which allow for spreading of the toes in a natural way. That creates a comfortable and stable stance for some people.

Oblique Toes and Unique Features

Some concept models feature oblique toe designs. They’re made for specific biomechanics, promoting comfort and reducing stress. They’re generally ideal for runners who want to optimize their form or those with specific foot needs.

Now, Let’s Talk About Walking Shoes.

Walking shoes differ from running shoes, primarily in their construction. They focus on stability and support for more repetitive, lower-intensity motion.

Walking shoes are typically constructed from uppers made of leather, which offer durability in addition to a more classic look.

They possess firmer soles that offer support in order to stabilize each step.

They also come in many different widths.

From narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide, and even double or triple extra-wide—to suit foot sizes of various kinds comfortably.

On top of that, walking shoes also have midsoles that are shock-absorbing and provide arch support, similar to running shoes.

Although the stiff sole makes the shoes less flexible. But that is ideal for walking.

One company that makes great walking shoes is SAS (San Antonio Shoe Company).

They are known for their comfort, durability, and quality. There are many models that offer excellent support in orthotic-friendly and water-resistant styles.

Most walking shoes are made with substantial cushioning, making them a joy to wear for the long hours on your feet. You also get styles that are designed for narrow to extra-wide widths, making it simple for everyone to find a great fit.

Flexible Cross-Over Walking and Running Shoes

There are shoes that can be used both for walking and leisure running. An example is Hoka, which has trail models to use as walking shoes because of their firm support and cushioned sole. Another popular model is Hoka Transport—easy to slip in, perfect for airports, commuter requirements, or a quick errand.

These cross-over models offer you flexibility, and therefore, you do not have to buy separate pairs for different activities. They are comfortable, give you support, and are convenient.

Walking Boots

Lastly, let’s talk about walking boots.

We have to mention these because sometimes people just don’t mesh with either running shoes or walking shoes. But they are perfect for boots.

As you know, boots are the best for outdoor activities like hiking or for those who need extra ankle support.

Some of the top brands to look at would be…

Vasque and Lowa Boots.

Both brands make very good boots. They’re durable, supportive, and ideally suited for uneven terrain.

They’re typically waterproof and made with long-lasting materials like leather or rough-textured fabric.

There are also numerous traditional waterproof shoes made in denim or the same type of material that has waterproofing with some light comfort. They appeal to individuals that need functional footwear but don’t want to compromise on style.

To wrap up…

Understanding the differences between running, walking, and hiking shoes helps you pick footwear that supports your health and fitness goals.

With so many options on the market, it pays to know what features matter most for your activity.

Prioritize comfort, support, and fit over style alone. When you choose the right shoes, every step becomes easier—and more enjoyable.

But sometimes picking the right shoe can be tricky.

That’s why I recommend always having your feet and shoes fitted the right way.

If you’d like to try walking shoes or running shoes and have them fitted properly, scroll down and schedule an appointment in the calendar below.

What Are The Differences Between Wide-Width Shoes?

Today, we are going to dive into what the differences between wide-width shoes. We will cover what brands do differently, what sizes they offer, and even the difference between wide-widths and wide toe boxes.

You can see all of it in the video below.

When it comes to wide-width shoes there’s been the standard of medium, wide, and extra-wide sizes for years.

But there has also been shoes made where width sizes range from AA all the way up 9E.

And just so you know, 9E is VERY wide.

On top of that, they now make shoes with what is called an ‘oblique toe.‘

Which is just a wider toe box that allows your toes to spread out and not be crammed in like a lot of the shoes you see out there.

This type of oblique toe shoe has become more and more popular for people. There are now many different options compared to just 5 or 10 years ago.

That being said the oblique toe shoe is not for everyone.

Actually, quite a few people have feet that don’t work with oblique toe shoes.

So you have to make sure you have your feet fitted correctly to know for sure.

For those who don’t want oblique toe shoes, or who’s feet don’t work with them, there are companies like Hoka, Saucony, and New Balance that can provide what you need.

These brands have shoes for many different types of wide feet and they all come with a good amount of support.

It’s Not Just Wide-Width Shoes Though

Another interesting note is that in today’s shoe market more and more companies are also starting to focus on depth as well.

For example, in the video above you’ll see a pair of New Balance 1540’s.

These not only come in wide-widths, but also have two sets of removable inserts.

This gives more options in the depth of the shoe so that it can fit better for certain types of feet.

As you can see, there are a lot of options for people with wide feet.

It’s very different than it was in the past and is a good sign that companies are actually listening to customers about what they need.

So if you have wide feet, and would like to know what type of shoe is right for you, scroll down and set up a time for a fitting.

You will learn whether or not you need an oblique toe shoe, a regualr wide-width shoe, a deep shoe, or a combination of all of them.

Sue M.’s Customer Spotlight

Today, we are happy to share with you Sue M.’s customer spotlight. To see her amazing story about how she was on the verge of giving up what she loved most to eventually being pain-free, watch the video below.

Meet Sue

Years ago, Sue was diagnosed with a degenerative hip issue in her left hip.

As time passed, the hip got worse, and other issues popped up in her back, knees, and feet.

The pain was becoming difficult to manage.

Eventually it got to the point where she had to have her hip replaced.

That helped with the pain quite a bit but over time, the pain in her back, knees, and feet started to get worse.

It got to the point where she was constantly thinking about how long she would have to spend standing in lines.

How far it was to walk for simple chores.

Basically, she started to avoid basic tasks because the pain was so bad.

Eventually, she visited a podiatrist who said she would need surgery on her feet.

But the worst moment for her was when she feared she would have to give up the thing she loved the most…

Hiking!

So she tried everything she could think of to find relief and avoid having surgery.

But nothing was really working.

That’s when a friend suggested for her to go and see Frank.

And that’s exactly what she did.

The Shoe-Fitting Experience

And when she sat down with Frank, she immediately knew things would be different.

The education, the individual attention, and the care she received were different from anything else she had experienced.

Sue said…

“You can expect exceptional care and concern, genuine compassion, and empathy…. He can gauge what you need right from the start and can kind of tweak whatever you need to be tweaked to make it work for you… In my experience, I have not found that to be the case anywhere else.”

And now, after working with Frank, she not only has relief from the foot pain, but Sue can do anything she wants without fear of how much it’s going to hurt.

Especially hiking.

As Sue said…

“He’s absolutely given me my life back.”

She’s happier, and back to being herself again.

And any time she needs any other tweaks to keep her doing what she loves the most, she continues to come back to Frank.

What You Can Do If You Are Experience Pain Like Sue

So if you are dealing with foot pain and have tried just about everything, but nothing has worked, Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting can help.

To get that help, simply schedule a consultation by using the calendar below.

Naot Footwear Overview 2025

Today, we’re going to do the Naot footwear overview, breaking down their best features and benefits. To see everything, make sure you watch the video below.

As you know, I’ve been fitting shoes for decades, and one of the brands that has always impressed me has been an Israeli brand called Naot.

What makes this brand so special?

First off, Naot is famous for their cork inner soles that can actually be removed from the shoe.

This is a big deal for long-term wear. That being said, the way Naot organizes their shoes is pretty clever.

They group their styles by collection names. For example, Utopia or Allegro.

Each collection is built on the same last (the foot-shaped mold they use to make the shoe) and contains the same type of insert.

The difference? Just the profile and colors.

This makes shopping easier once you know which collection fits your foot best.

What Type Of Models Are Offered?

Their range covers everything from adjustable sandals (slingbacks) to boots and oxfords.

Speaking of sandals, the adjustable straps you’ll find are great for really securing your foot properly.

For men, I personally love the Lappland model. I once ran a 5K in this shoe! That should say a lot about Naot’s.

Their boots deserve special mention.

They’re remarkably lightweight, feature that famous inner sole system, and often include smart design elements that make them easy to get on and off.

But what I really like is that Naot’s shoes are “orthotic friendly.”

This means the custom orthotics we make can fit perfectly into their shoes. It’s the best of both worlds – stylish shoes with proper support.

Where To Start With Naot?

I’m often asked which pair to start with.

My advice? It depends on your needs, but I typically recommend beginning with their classic styles that offer adjustability.

The more you can customize the fit to your unique foot, the happier you’ll be.

So if you’re looking for a high-quality shoe, sandal, or boot…

That is also stylish AND can work with different inserts and orthotics…

Naot’s can be a good option for you.

If you’d like to try any of what you’ve seen from the Naot footwear overview, scroll down and schedule a time to come in, and I’ll help you find the perfect pair.

Hoka Clifton 10 Shoe Review

Today, we’re going to dive in and do the Hoka Clifton 10 shoe review.

As someone who’s spent years helping people navigate the complex world of footwear, I’m excited to break down why I like this version of the Clifton’s.

Before we dive into some of the technical specs, let’s first talk about what I really like about the Clifton 10s.

The first thing I like, just like the previous model, is that there is quite a bit of cushioning.

Not as much as the Bondi, but there’s still quite a bit.

They are very comfortable, will fit a range of different feet, and offer quite a bit of support.

Plus, the upper now has a bit more of a snug midfoot and a roomier toe box compared to previous models.

It breathes well, and moisture is wicked away quickly.

On top of that, Hoka refined the heel as well. It’s been slightly redesigned to provide a better fit and keep things comfortable.

All of this was done to give it a bit more stable structure and feel.

One thing to note that I personally like is that the Clifton 10’s also come in wide and extra-wide widths to accommodate an even broader range of foot shapes.

Also, like the previous model and other models in the Hoka lineup, they have their patented Metarocker, which helps to propel your feet forward.

The Big Change

With all of the changes mentioned above, there is one that wasn’t mentioned.

And this is the BIG change that Hoka made.

That is that they’ve added a 3mm higher stack to the heel.

That means that the Clifton 10’s heel-to-toe drop went from 5mm to 8mm.

It seems Hoka did this because the heel compresses quite a bit compared to the forefoot, so they wanted to address that.

Some people may not like this 3mm increase, but this provides a more cushioned feel while maintaining a smooth transition.

This does add a bit more weight compared to the Clifton 9, but not much at all.

Depending on the size, the Clifton 10 generally weighs around 10oz for a size 9.5. The Clifton 9 weighs around 9.2 oz for the same size.

But you don’t really notice the difference.

So who is the Clifton 10 for?

Here’s a simple breakdown…

– Neutral foot mechanics runners

– Those recovering from previous injuries

– Long-distance enthusiasts

– Individuals battling daily foot fatigue

– Professionals spending hours on their feet, such as nurses, restaurant workers, and teachers.

What Are The Key Improvements?

They are…

– More responsive midsole

– Enhanced breathable mesh upper

– Improved durability in high-wear areas

– Subtle fit modifications for better comfort

Lastly, there is one final question to answer in this Hoka Clifton shoe review!

That is…

Is the Hoka Clifton 10 right for you?

Well, there’s only one way to know for sure.

That is to try a pair on.

But not just try them on like normal.

To know for sure if they’re right for your feet, you want to have them professionally fitted.

And you can now schedule a fitting for these by scrolling down and scheduling a time using the calendar below.

New Balance Shoe Overview For 2025

Today, we’re going to do a nice little New Balance Shoe Overview. We’re going to dive into a bunch of models here at the store and show you what they’re all about.

New Balance Running Shoe Overview 2025.

The first thing to know about New Balance is that they offer a huge range of options. Honestly, there is something for everybody.

Let’s get a closer look at some of their most popular models.

The Classic Favorites:

One of the most popular shoes here at the store is the updated version of the 1540. This classic shoe has been a favorite for over 30 years, thanks to its cushioning, roll bar, and excellent support.

With multiple widths and depths, it’s an excellent choice for runners of all skill levels.

Innovative And Classic Designs

If you prefer a shoe with a little more cushioning and a new rocker design, the 840 might be the right one for you.

The 840 comes in a variety of colors and has a comfortable fit that has been popularized by other companies like Hoka. Plus, it has extra depth over the next shoe we’re going to talk about.

That is the 880.

If you prefer something a little more mainstream, the 880 is a classic favorite that has been around for decades. This shoe features a cushioned sole and comfortable fit, ideal for daily wear.

It comes in several colors, making it an easily versatile option to go from the gym to the streets. It also has a lot of colors, sizes, and widths to choose from.

Specialized Collections

New Balance also offers a line of shoes for specific activities, such as tennis and pickleball.

The 806, a classic tennis shoe, features a herringbone sole that gives excellent court traction. New Balance has also led the pickleball category, offering sizes and widths that meet the unique needs of players in this growing sport.

Overall, New Balance has a great assortment of running shoes to choose from.

It just comes down to what you are looking for and what fits correctly.

How do you know which one is right for you?

When it comes time to find the perfect New Balance shoe, we offer a personal fitting service.

With this fitting service we will sit down with you and help you find not just the perfect shoe but also the perfect fit so that you will be happy.

To try a pair of these New Balance shoes on and to find the perfect fit, scroll down to schedule your personal shoe fitting.

2025 Boot Overview

Today we are going to do a nice boot overview of what we have in the store. You’ll see all sorts of different boots, from 6″ boots to police boots, and what makes each one unique for the job they are suited for.

In choosing the right work boots to wear, there are a number of options to choose from. In our store, you’ll find a bunch of 8-inch boots.

The 8-inch boots give more protection for the leg from rebar and other building materials.

These boots come in different styles, including steel toe, composite toe, and logger style with an inch and a quarter higher heel at the back for support.

One of the brands is Carolina, which has a defined heel that allows for easy ladder climbing and decent ankle support.

The boots are waterproof, insulated, and have composite toe versions available.

Danner

Another good brand is Danner.

Danner has a classic line of American-made boots that fit well and are available in 6-inch or 7-inch collections.

Some of the Danner boots are designed for high steel work, featuring a straight crepe sole for better traction and balance.

Boa

For ease, boots with the Boa lacing system are a popular choice as well. The Boa lacing system allows for fast tightening through a dial and easy loosening by popping out the dial.

Boa lacing systems are increasingly being utilized by various companies for their work boots.

If you are searching for durable and reliable work boots, you can try Redwing’s King Toe or Carolina boots that offer a sturdy design to endure rough working environments.

Irish Setter’s light hiker boots are also a perfect option for anyone who wants optimum protection and comfort.

Not only that, we also carry a range of police boots, including ones with side zippers and safety toe features. The boots are both waterproof and slip-resistant and come in many different styles to suit personal preferences.

With so many brands and styles available here at the store you are sure to find the perfect pair for your feet.

To give you even more options we have wide sizes available, and to really dial it all in we can do a professional fitting of these boots as well.

So if you’d like to try any of of what you saw in this boot overview, scroll down below and schedule a time to come in.