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Suzie's Gear Corner
Footware
Xero Shoes
Shoes are a hard one. You want a pair that works with every kind of outfit AND provides walking comfort to last all day. I'm not sure such a thing exists. That means no matter how hard I try, I end up having to pack multiple pairs of shoes. One pair is for long walking and protection, one is for just knocking around, and one is for dress up. I'm always on the lookout for the lightest, most comfortable offerings that will meet my needs in each category. Here's a company that makes a darned good pair of shoes for that second category, and possibly the first. Xero Shoes is based out of Boulder, Colorado. (So of course, they are exceedingly hip.) Their shoes are light, flexible, washable and great for traveling. To compare a pair of their shoes, even their hiking boots, with the weight and size of my go-to walking shoes (Danskos) -- well, it's a David and Goliath kind of comparison. Last spring/summer, I purchased a pair of canvas, closed-toe shoes called Lena. I loved them. Their canvas upper provided light, breathable protection around the upper part of my feet. The minimalist sole allowed each foot to move, bend, flex and grip almost as if I was walking barefoot. They were great for warm days when I didn't want to have on my hiking boots and had on casual clothes. In fact, my typical outfit for the day quickly became tunic/short dress, leggings and Lenas. If you look now on their website (https://xeroshoes.com/), you'll see they've discontinued the Lena in favor of the Hana, which has a bit heavier canvas and is more structured. As soon as they come up with a few more colors, I'll be ordering a pair. (I left my Lenas in a hotel room by mistake. Darn it.) I'm also keen to try Xero's hiking boots. I'm absolutely sold on the barefoot-but-protected model of shoeware. I've given Xero shoes four skeins instead of five for a rating. They may not provide an adequate level of comfort and support for everyone. To someone who is used to walking on the softness of Crocs, Tevas or Chacos -- or with the structure found in more traditional shoes from Dansko, Ecco or Clarks -- they may not work. You'll have to purchase a pair to find out if they're comfortable for you. And though Xero shoes aren't outrageously expensive (hint, hint, Wolky), they aren't cheap either. I recommend walking in them for a few weeks to test prior to travel. One of my cardinal packing rules is always and only take gear and clothing along that you KNOW works well for you Even if Xero's shoes don't work for travel or for spending a great deal of time in, I think they are fantastically fun. Sometimes a heavy shoe is just that: heavy, and therefore a bit of a drag. With these shoes, you can be on an almost-barefoot walkabout.
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