the go to shoe

The go to shoe. Everyone has one. The staple. The shoe that never gives you blisters and matches everything. For me that shoe is the Dansko Trixie. A nice little freebie from our Dansko rep last year. In all honesty I had thought I had given them away to one of my Dansko fanatic friends but we were reunited a few weeks back while clearing out the closet for a Soles4Souls shoe drive. Trixie, my dear, how I have missed you!

Soft black nappa leathers from the Dansko Left Bank collection. The modest 3 1/8th heel makes it the perfect shoe for work and the sassy strap fits flattering on the foot. The only bummer is that I don't think Trixie made this years collection. However, it is still available from etailers like Zappos.com and Onlineshoes.com. Snap up a pair while you can - Trixie will not disappoint!

shoegirl

oops! I tweeted!

I suspect I was one of the last 30 year olds to join Facebook. I joined only days before my mother in-law and grandmother. I created a Twitter account not long after only to discover that every person I have every met or dreamed of meeting was already tweeting. Am I a disgrace to my generation? My profession?

If you can empathize with my situation perhaps you too were busy trying to make a postcard mailer campaign profitable or maybe attempting a new eblast format while the social media revolution was taking over the world. In the last couple months I have read a few Seth Godin books, streamed, tweeted, liked and blogged. I can type one sentence and have it automatically sent to five different social media sites. How cool is that?! Snaps to me for making up for lost time.

As I'm sure you know by now I work in the comfort shoe business. The business of sheepskin, physiological footwear and patchouli scented Chaco wearers. Its a true trail mix of styles and ideologies but the main ingredient is comfort. Not only is comfort footwear online and cleverly disguised as women's fashion shoes (read my favorite comfort shoe blog Barkingdogshoes.com) it now features digital scanning technology and can tell you what you need in seconds.

Folks, I present to you the Aetrex iStep. With state-of-the-art digital scanners and pressure sensors, iStep accurately measures feet and determines foot type and pressure points. This patented technology then immediately recommends appropriate footwear and orthotics. In seconds. Literally. You step on the scanning platform and voila!

Aetrex Worldwide is headquartered in New Jersey but you can follow the inventors on Twitter @aetrex and learn about technological advances and random shoe information daily. You can also follow almost every shoe brand. @antishoe @merrelloutside @earthfootwear just to name a few. Twitter and other social media platforms are connecting the dots and increasing the rapid flow of information to the people who are wanting it. And increasing sales opportunities.

Even though I was late to the party I am definitely having a great time socializing with my fellow shoe fanatics and marketing imagineers. I'm also very proud to be working in such a progressive industry. Check out your shoes you may very well be wearing a pair of comfort shoes. If you're not - pick up a pair at Takken's Shoes. Or at least follow us on Twitter.

let's hear it for the boys

Lets talk men’s shoes. Some research I’ve done over the last couple weeks has opened my eyes. Previously, I assumed a lot of men were just apathetic when it came to fashion. I no longer believe this is the case.
I have spent the last couple weeks trying to find a Men’s Spring 2009 style guide with very little success. I have found things claiming to be style guides, but 9 out of 10 ended up being photographs of one specific designers spring runway show. This is neither diverse, nor particularly helpful. Where is the men’s version of the ‘get this celebrity look for cheap’ that I love so much from fashion magazines? I didn’t find a single shoe recommended to the fashion conscious man for under $400.
The second obstacle standing in the way of fashionable men is the selection. I know there are good looking men’s shoes out there. I have seen men wearing shoes I did not think were ugly. I did not realize they were so incredibly hard to find. I know a suprising number of men who like to shop and browse through product endlessly, but even so they are the minority. Most of the men I know like their shopping to be efficient and satisfying. Even if a man already knows whether he’s a trainer, boat shoe, or wing tip kind of guy; the process of sifting through to find a good one is ridiculous. I know there are ugly women’s shoes out there, but the quantity of attractive women’s shoes is much higher.
I am now going to do something I never thought I would do. I am going to attempt to put together a very basic, rudimentary guide to men’s shoes for the Spring. My qualifications are sparse (or non-existent), being limited to the fact that I look at shoes all day every day, like visually pleasing things, and have a fairly no-nonsense approach to shopping. With that said, here goes nothing.

The Number 1 rule to remember when picking out a pair of shoes (and with anything to do with anything, really) is to go with your gut. If someone tells you something is smoking hot right now, and you can’t stand it… Don’t wear it. If you do not feel good in it, it is unlikely you will look good in it. Also, the shoe really could be a guaranteed win in the fashionable column but if it does not suit your personal style, its not the shoe for you.

Hanging Out

The first and most frequent social setting a man needs shoes for is the casual one. Here in California, that can mean anything. Flip-flops are common. I have seen a few guys pull off slippers (not recommended for fashion beginners). You basic skate or casual athletic shoe will cover a lot of bases as well. My recomendations would be the Converse Chuck Taylor (loads of colors to choose from), any Reef Leather Sandal, the DC villian (or Loaf from Simple for you green guys), and the Teva Tamur for the outdoorsy type who might just need to climb a mountain on a moments notice. The nice thing about casual attire is that you get to let more of your personality hang out. The rules for casual are very flexible.

9 to 5

What is and isn't acceptable for work obviously varies depending on what you do, but I generally consider 'work' shoes to be footwear that is appropriate to wear to an interview. Interview shoes can also double for appropriate footwear in those tricky not quite formal but definitely not casual occasions like dinner out with your significant other's parents. The 'Business' from Ecco is a classic and a safe bet. They're not going to stand out and make an outfit, but they also won't stand out and give a bad impression either. The Born Jackson is closer to the casual end of things, but still a very nice looking shoe. The Clark's Unstructured Un Seal is also a great option that has a lot of hidden comfort features. If you're not sure how formal or professional a situation is, always go more formal rather than less.

Pimpin'
There comes a time in every mans life when he wants to look like a playboy. This is the trickiest thing to pull off, and requires some advanced knowledge of your personal style and what sets you off the best. When in doubt, ask a woman or gay man you can count on to tell it to you straight. Shoes for pimpin' have to be fantastic, and is acceptable if they are a little over the top. The Steve Madden Serpant and Novo are a good starting indicator of the attitude these kind of shoe needs to possess, but by no means encompass the whole genre.

Those three social settings cover most of the occasions a man will run into. I haven't covered the Formal setting, because honestly... if you've proven to be unfit to dress yourself, whoever invited you will probably assign someone to steer you in the right direction. In the extreme unliklihood that they do not, sales girls who work in formal menswear are very well equipped to put you into something respectable and attractive (with healthy commission returns).

Thats it for today. I hope it was helpful, and if not helpful at least entertaining.

Black Friday

Before I began working in the retail industry, I had always thought Black Friday was a bad thing. I had never had it explained, but I had heard about Black Tuesday and the crash of the stock market. It created an idea in me that Black + Day of the Week = National Tragedy. Since switching over to the other side of the consumer/retailer relationship, I have found that many things are backwards and opposite to what I originally thought they were.

In retail black is good, and red is bad. The day after thanksgiving represents (on average) the first day when retail business finally get ‘in the black’ in accounting terms. Roughly a third of a typical retail business’ sales will be generated from the day after Thanksgiving to the day before Christmas. Think about that. One month for 1/3 of sales. Eleven months for the other 2/3. Black Friday is a very important day in retail terms.

Black Friday is also a very important day in shopping terms. Not only does it serve as a bonding experience and time honored tradition for many families across the nation, it is also an incomparable opportunity for early risers to snag sweet deals on otherwise full price items. Department stores and independent mall stores alike will often have door buster and early riser promotions allowing you to get holiday presents and things you’ve had your eye on at sometimes significantly below retail value.

As the day draws closer, I’ve been thinking more and more about Black Friday as it means to me now, and as it used to mean to me before. It’s no secret that a recession/depression is upon us. Many, if not all, of us are tightening belts and cutting down on frivolous spending. The retail industry is holding its breath waiting to see how hard the blow will be. Why am I talking about this? Shoppers who choose to continue the tradition despite the economic climate may find themselves reaping the rewards of a very nervous retail industry. Sales and discounts are almost guaranteed to be better than ever. Companies will be trying to unload inventory that they can no longer guarantee they will sell during what could be a mediocre Christmas rush.

You might have a moment’s remorse about rubbing your hands together in anticipation at the panic driven deals you’ll find on November 28th. Don’t. The retail industry needs you to purchase, and they’re willing to meet you half way to make it worth your while. Take advantage of the opportunity to be on the strong arming side of the supply and demand this holiday.

That’s all I’ve got for you today. For those of you willing to brave the economy and the malls this Black Friday, I wish you happy hunting!

Ugg Boots: Not all sheepskin is created equal…. Part 2

Alright. It's that time again. It took me a little longer to get back around to the sheepskin rundown than I thought it would. It turns out that some of you took my advice, and the UGG rush has hit earlier than ever. Thanks to all of you. You're making my Christmas very merry.
So! UGG Australia and Koolaburra. When talking about "The Real Thing" in terms of sheepskin boots, a boot from one of these two companies is what people are referring to. There's a lot of legal history and bad blood between these two companies, but I couldn't find an unbiased source for information on the dispute, so I'll be leaving the politics out and focusing solely on the shoes.

This brings us to the big defining question: What's the difference? Koolaburra's are more expensive. UGG's are in higher demand. Why are both of them so much more expensive than the others? We will start with what is the same.

• -Both originated in Australia, and found success in the U.S. (specifically California) prompting them to move their headquarters to Santa Barbara County in California.
• - Both UGG and Koolaburra use twin (or double) face sheepskin. This means the bond between the sheepskin and the fleece in your boot is stronger because the fleece was never disconnected from the sheepskin.
• - Both companies only use the highest quality of sheepskin in the construction of their boots.

The differences are a little harder to lay down. We'll start with the elephant in the room:

All Koolaburra boots are made in Australia. UGG boots are made in New Zealand and China, depending on which style you're purchasing. For some people the country of origin is important. For some people it isn't. If you're looking for a strictly Australian sheepskin boot, Koolaburra is going to be your answer. If you're not comfortable with a Chinese guy making your Australian boot, but you're o.k. with a Kiwi overseeing its creation, you'll be fine if you stick to the "Ultra" product line of UGG. They're all made in the New Zealand factories. UGG's classic line is manufactured in China, which you will see if you check the "Made In" label. If you don't care what nationality slaved over your boots as long as they get under your tree by Christmas, you can view the next batch of information objectively to help you make your decision.

Lets compare apples to apples:

Koolaburra Classics vs. UGG Classics.
The description for Koolaburra in these comparisons is going to be largely repetitive, but hey.. don't fix what isn't broken. Koolaburra classics are, as mentioned, all double faced sheepskin. UGG Classics also use twin-faced sheepskin, but the inside is then cemented to a cow leather outside to make it more durable. What you wind up with when comparing them side by side is a soft supple boot inside and out (Koolaburra) and a boot that is soft inside, but a little more rigid and durable on the outside (UGG). Depending on the lifestyle of your recipient, and level of care you can expect them to take with their boots, that might be an important factor in your decision.
Koolaburra Classics have a removable insole. UGG Classics do not. This can also be a factor worth paying attention to. With all fleece lined footwear, the fleece will start to compress as you wear them. If you bought them large or just right on the first wear, they will be too big after a few more. Changing out the insole to one with unsquished fluff can help if you didn't preplan for the compression.
Comparing costs, UGG Classics retail for $130 for the shorts and $160 for the talls this season. Koolaburra shorts are going for $165 and the talls are retailing at $190.

UGG Ultras vs. Koolaburra Excaliburs.
These would be the boots with the Australian/Tasman braiding up the back. (Some Koolaburra classics have the braiding up the back as well, so don't use the braid as an indicator with Koolaburra.)

• - Removable insole? Check.
• - All sheepskin throughout? Check.
• - All weather sole with reinforced toe and heel? Check.
• - Manufactured in a country with a 'downundah' accent? Check.
• - Retail price this holiday season? Short: $180 Tall: $200

As you can see, they are almost identical.

When it comes down to it, its a matter of style and personal preference. Koolaburra markets themselves as the little guy still holding strong to its roots. (Incidentally, so does Emu.) UGG markets itself with celebrity endorsement and a high fashion slant, the height of comfortable quality sheik. Fashion is one of the most reinforceable ways to display your individuality and personal identity. When trying to choose which label should be on the boots under your tree this year, look at the person you're buying for and what they value. And when it all comes down to it, if you're in a panic just remember: You can't go wrong with sheepskin boots. The details are just the icing on the cake.

Preventable Foot Ailments Part 7 : Gout

This blog is not for the faint of heart. Gout is a very serious, and painful disease. The picture to the right is a James Gillray (1799) drawing. The artist memorably illustrates the excruciating pain and swelling that are symptoms of the disease. And in my research the least disgusting picture of gout I could find. It is interesting to note that according to http://www.medicinenet.com/gout/article.htm Gout "has the unique distinction of being one of the most frequently recorded medical illnesses throughout history."

So lets get down to the nitty gritty, What is gout? Gout defined by wikipedia (also where I found this picture) is a disease created by a buildup of uric acid. In this condition, monosodium urate or uric acid crystals are deposited on the articular cartilage of joints, tendons and surrounding tissues due to elevated concentrations of uric acid in the blood stream. This provokes an inflammatory reaction of these tissues.

According to http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gout/DS00090 "Gout is a complex disorder that can affect anyone. Men are more likely to get gout than women are, but women become increasingly susceptible to gout after menopause. Fortunately, gout is treatable, and there are ways to reduce the risk that gout will recur."

What are the signs or symptoms of gout? Interestingly enough gout usually attacks the Big Toe (about 75% of first cases) however, it also can affect other joints such as the ankle, heel, instep, knee, wrist, elbow, fingers, and spine. In some cases, the condition may appear in the joints of small toes that have become immobile due to impact injury earlier in life, causing poor blood circulation that leads to gout.

Treatment for gout according to several medical web sites usually consists of medication. The medications you and your doctor choose will be based on your current health and your own preferences. Medications for gout include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs may control inflammation and pain in people with gout. NSAIDs include over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen (Aleve, others), as well as more powerful prescription NSAIDs. NSAIDs carry risks of stomach pain, bleeding and ulcers.
• Colchicine. Colchicine controls gout effectively, but may cause uncomfortable side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. If you're unable to take NSAIDs, your doctor may recommend colchicine.
• Steroids. Steroid medications, such as the drug prednisone may control gout inflammation and pain. Steroids may be administered in pill form, or they can be injected into your joint. Side effects of steroids may include thinning bones, poor wound healing and a decreased ability to fight infection. Steroids may be reserved for people who can't take either NSAIDs or colchicine.

Many of the articles I read state hereditary as one of the main factors of getting gout. If you do have relatives that have had or have gout changing your diet can help reduce the chances of contracting the disease yourself. For instance according to wikipedia "consumption of beer is associated with a 49% increase in relative risk per daily 12-oz serving." The point many sites make is to cut down on the uric acid you consume and or increase the level your body uses a day. Diet should be low fat and low protein.

If you believe you have gout please see a doctor immediately!

If you would like to read my other posts about foot problems and their solutions please click on the links below:

Bunions
Hammer toe
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel Spurs
Flat foot
Calluses, Corns, and warts
Gout

Ugg Boots: Not all sheepskin is created equal…. Part 1

You may be thinking the middle of July is a strange time to talk about sheepskin products, the demand for sheepskin is usually more of a winter craze. As the #1 Independent Retailer of UGG Australia products, Takken’s employees know exactly how crazy it gets. It has gotten to the point that, much like in demand concert tickets or a venue for your wedding, sheepskin boots for the holiday season are best snagged months in advance. For those of you who know Australian sheepskin boots will be on the Christmas lists of your loved ones and want to make sure you can be the holiday hero, purchasing them in October, September, and even August is not unrealistic. By the time you get to November, the craze is in full swing and availability will be scarce.

The first thing to realize about sheepskin boots is that they are not all created equal. You’ve probably already noticed that some brands are upwards of $200 and some are sitting right around $30 for what appears to be the same boot. The motivation for owning a pair of sheepskin boots can help you determine how much you should expect to shell out. If you’re buying the boot for someone who just wants the look, then the $30 pair will work out just fine. If you’re buying the boot for a label conscious trendsetter, you’re going to want to limit your perusing to the UGG Australia options. If you’re buying for someone who wants the more traditional benefits of sheepskin boots, you’re going to want to go with quality, and for that you need Koolaburra or the UGG Ultras.

Cheaper sheepskin boots are cheaper for a couple reasons. The first is usually that there aren’t any actual sheep products involved. The fleece is almost always synthetic, and the outside of the boot is either a canvas or cheaper leather substitute. If the person on your list is environmentally conscious or a fledgling member of PETA, go for the cheap version. Your animal lover will be heartbroken to realize that her UGGs or Koolaburra’s are in such short supply because the fleece is never separated from the animal’s skin in traditional Australian construction (twin-faced sheepskin, to use technical terms), and there are only so many sheep in the world. In the case of UGG classics they actually require the use of two different animal’s skins, but I’ll get into that a bit further on. Mind you, these companies aren’t out there slaughtering sheep left and right for fashion. They work in close partnership with the meat industry, ultimately causing less waste by utilizing the entire animal rather than just its food source offerings. Maybe that makes you feel better, maybe it doesn’t.

To be really well rounded (since I know the direction this blog is headed), I should give you information about the lower end boots and which brands make them. Unfortunately for my journalistic diversity, I don’t like to write about things I don’t have personal experience with and we only carry UGG Australia and Koolaburra here at Takken’s. I will say that prior to working here I owned a pair of Emu brand boots ($39 when I bought them). They gave me the look I wanted, and they seemed very comfortable. Never having worn an UGG or Koolaburra, I was not disappointed in the product I received. At least not until the 3rd or 4th wear when I realized they didn’t fit anymore because all the fluffy parts squished down and the boot started rattling back and forth on my foot. That, however, is a problem of all sheepskin boots regardless of price. My Emu’s did it. My UGG’s did it. My Koolaburra’s did it. If you want them to last, buy them small. One size down is a good idea, two isn’t out of the question if you want to be wearing them for a long time. (For children who’s feet are still growing, buy them true to size. They’ll stretch with their feet as they grow.)

I’ve got a lot more to get into before I’m done on the sheepskin topic, but I can already imagine your eyes glazing over at the sheer length of this blog. I’m going to cut this off here, and pick it back up a little later on. In the next installment, I’ll go over the differences between UGG Australia and Koolaburra.

Shuru Out.