shoe review Archives - Frank’s Custom Shoe-Fitting

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.

SAS Shoe Overview For 2025

Today, we’re going to do a quick SAS shoe overview. You’ll learn a bit about some of their sneakers, a bit about their sandals, and some of their dress shoes. Take a look at the video.

In the shoe industry, there is a company that stands out in its commitment to quality, comfort, and style. That is the San Antonio Shoe Company, or SAS Shoes.

SAS was established in the mid-1980s and has carved out a nice little niche as a family shoe company.

And they manufacture all of their shoes right here in the United States.

One distinction from other companies, SAS shoe sizes are the right size and don’t run down a full size, so you get the right fit every time.

What Are Popular Models?

As for the types of shoes they have, there is quite a range. Today we’ll be talking a bit about that.

As for the athleisure shoes, the Journey is one of the most popular for men and the Tour for women.

These shoes come in a number of colors and are well built with great heel support and a very comfortable fit.

As we approach warmer temperatures, SAS Shoes also has a line of sandals perfect for spring. There is a sandal to fit every foot in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.

SAS Shoes also has a line of fashionable flats for men and women, so there’s a shoe to suit every occasion.

What makes SAS unique is their dedication to manufacturing their shoes in the USA.

Their commitment to craftsmanship and quality is obvious, and it shows through their entire shoe lineup.

Whether you need a stylish and comfortable pair of shoes for everyday wear or you need something for a special occasion…

SAS Shoes has something for everyone.

And here at the store, we are happy to provide a good selection of their shoes for you.

If you’d like to try a pair on to see what they’re all about, scroll down below and schedule an appointment.

Hoka Bondi Versus Gaviota

In this post, we’re going to dive into the Hoka Bondi versus the Gaviota. You’ll discover not just what makes both of these shoes so popular but also the differences between the two and which may be better for you.

The Bondi and Gaviota are two of the most popular Hoka models.

So let’s start with the Bondi.

As in previous posts and videos, you’ll see how the Bondi has plenty of cushion, plenty of support, and removable insoles.

It’s the type of shoe that works well for a lot of different people.

It’s a good training shoe, walking shoe, casual shoe, and is one of the most popular shoes that help our customers with foot pain.

I also find that the Bondi 7 is actually a better shoe than the Bondi 8. And you can see why here.

As for the Gaviota, it too has plenty of cushion, support, and removable insoles.

But there are a few key differences.

The first is that it has a wider toe box to allow for your toes to spear out more.

The second big difference is that it has a medial support system, which ads more support on your arch when your foot pronates.

And the fit is a little different than that of the Bondi.

Plus, it’s a few dollars more because there is a bit more material with the shoe.

Either way, both shoes are solid.

If you’re looking at which one is better, it just comes down to how they fit on your feet.

And if you’d like to know which one is a better “fit” for your feet, scroll down and schedule up a time to come to the store for a fitting session, and we can find which one is right for you.

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 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.

ASICS METARACER™ Review

Here is a video with the ASICS METARACER™ review.

If you’re a runner and you’re looking to get the most performance out of your shoes when it comes to training and racing the ASICS METARACER™ is going to be a great option.

ASICS is now using some newer technology in their shoes (as are other running shoe companies) that are really pushing the limits of what is considered a “performance” running shoe.

There are some very unique features to the METARACER™. And in the ASICS METARACER™ review below you’ll get to see what those features are.

If you’re a runner then these shoes are something to definitely take a look at.

If You’d Like To Try The ASICS METARACER™ Stop By The Store Or Schedule An Appointment Below

The Topo MT Shoe Review

The Topo MT shoe is one that has really found and defined a little niche for itself. There has been a lot of good feedback from people about this shoe. So I wanted to put together a really quick review of this shoe and why people like this.

So take a look at this quick shoe review video below.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf_UbNVR_0k?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

Feel free to leave a comment below.

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