Replies

1. 
   TomMGTC | Feb 09, 2004 04:38am | #1

   Birkenstock clogs. Best thing I ever bought for my feet.

   Tom

   Douglasville, GA

1. 
   Novy | Feb 09, 2004 06:16am | #2

   I love my Birkenstocks but to advise somone to wear them in the shop is ..................................

    That being unsaid I have caught myself in the shop with them and caught myself catching a drawer that got knocked of the bench on the top of my foot. It hurt for many days !!!! I was very lucky I did not break bones. Real safety footwear is also designed for being on your feet all day as well as safety!

    I wear Doc Martin Industrial shoes & my feet love me !On a hill by the harbour

1. 
   TomMGTC | Feb 09, 2004 02:55pm | #5

   Sorry but I don't see any problem with Birkenstocks as a shoe for working in a woodshop. I doubt very much that the instance of toe or foot injuries in a woodshop, at least the shops that are usually discussed here,  is very high. I wear industrial safety shoes at work all the time and and have tried every brand out there nothing compares to the birkenstocks.Tom

   Douglasville, GA

2. 
   Tao | Feb 09, 2004 06:27am | #3

   Wolverines with the durashock soles.  A little pricey, but the best I've found in may years.

   Michael R.

1. 
   bill_1010 | Feb 14, 2004 02:41am | #29

   I hope you had better luck then I did with thouse wolverines.  I wont buy anymore of them because cracks will develop in the sole causing air to enter and escape when i walk.  It was the most annoying sound ever, next to fingers on a chalkboard......

1. 
   UncleDunc | Feb 14, 2004 03:09am | #30

   >> ... causing air to enter and escape when i walk.

   Shoe farts?

3. 
   notDusty | Feb 09, 2004 06:34am | #4

                       hey jazzdogg ,

           Red Wing makes a shoe they call the concrete shoe . When I worked on concrete they helped my back problems as well as having happy hush puppies .

                                                 dusty

4. 
   JeffKurtz | Feb 09, 2004 04:16pm | #6

   If you have something more like a work boot or casual shoe in mind, one brand I can think of is Foot-So-Port.  Just check with any store that sells "orthopedic shoes" and they should have them or something like them.  (Any nurse should be able to direct you there.)

   Jeff

1. 
   PlaneWood | Feb 09, 2004 04:46pm | #7

   I wear Rockport orthopedic shoes.

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)PlaneWood

1. 
   jagwah | Feb 12, 2004 02:07am | #20

   I agree Rockports for me. 

1. 
   Elcoholic | Feb 12, 2004 11:53pm | #21

   I like to wear spongy flip-flops in hot weather,  but don't recommend them for obvious reasons.  I do recommend Doc Martins with gel inserts, in fact I'm wearing them now.  I'm not surpirised they are now made in China.  Most name brand sport shoes are made in Korea.John O'Connell - JKO Handcrafted Woodworking

   Life is tough.  It's tougher if you're stupid - John Wayne

5. 
   hitai | Feb 09, 2004 08:27pm | #8

   I've gone through everything and settled on ECCO shoes. They've got some kind of sole that does not compress .RE Birkenstocks.... you should see my big toe even 25 years lafter I thought that they were OK for "just shop use"....  if you have not yet figured out out to drop something on your toe,,, you will eventually.

   Other tips.....   make sure that you do not have other considerations. IE accumulated tension , spasm  in your legs, calves. (massage, Yoga).  Pronation....  orthotics,,, if you have instabilities in your foot structure, shoes are a secondary consideration.

   Get yourself checked out by a good chiro- or osteopath to make sure that your legs are same length and that there are no other structural problems. Middle age brings out things that were once minor and cartilage compresses over time.

   Finally ,,, soften that floor,,,!!!! get mats for where you work most. Concrete is a killer.  I took 1/2" strand board and hot glued small pads on the bottom to produce real nice bouncy walkways and work stations. Cheap and really effective.

   This is something you have to solve as it will only get worse. I had quite the run and was losing the use of my legs before I figured it out.  I'm doing great now  but keep aware of all the little things that can add up to problems.

   Good luck!!

   Aloha  Tai

1. 
   jackplane | Feb 09, 2004 08:44pm | #9

   Redwings! Made for concrete and come with a steel toe.Of course, Doc Martens with a soft gum sole could be nice.

6. 
   mousejockey | Feb 09, 2004 09:22pm | #10

   Wolverine Durashocks, like wearing slippers.

   Myles

7. 
   robert1 | Feb 09, 2004 10:35pm | #11

   My feet like Rockport Chukka boots.

8. 
   billballeza | Feb 10, 2004 06:50am | #12

   First, some background:

   I roll everything.. TS, Jointer, Planer, DP, Router table, DC.. and have rolled everything into the front of my toes.

   I drop everything.. sheet goods, tools, lumber.. right on my toes.

   And I was doing all this toe banging/smashing while wearing Nike cross trainers, which were very comfy but offered no protection.

   One day I went to Sears and bought some steel toe construction boots.

   Big, black, ugly.

   Bought some running shoe gel inserts from Athlete's Foot and shoved 'em in.

   Now I've got a reasonably comfortable shoe that makes my toes smile.

1. 
   SDBaker | Feb 10, 2004 07:04am | #13

   Wolverine Durashocks are unbelieveable! Feel just a comfortable as my Asics gel running shoes but with steel toes.

1. 
   billballeza | Feb 11, 2004 12:24am | #15

   I got the Caterpillars.. a bit clunky, yes, but with the gel insoles and a little breaking in.. not too bad.

   And my toes are happy, happy!

   Edited 2/10/2004 4:32:39 PM ET by bill

9. 
   mrles | Feb 10, 2004 09:27am | #14

   I walk a lot on concrete and have found Rockport and Clark to be the best for me. A few years back I was walking 4 miles every eveing in an hour. I really had to be careful what I put on my feet.

   Gods Peace

   les

10. 
    Napie | Feb 11, 2004 07:07pm | #16

    Doc Martins! It is just to bad that they are now made in China, (and the price didn't drop either....)

1. 
   Novy | Feb 11, 2004 08:05pm | #17

   I just checked my Doc Martins ( Industrial Division ) & the sole is stamped made in England. 6 months old maybe ?On a hill by the harbour

2. 
   jazzdogg | Feb 11, 2004 08:09pm | #18

   My heartfelt thanks to all of you who so generously replied.

   I've been visiting shoestores to try on your recommendations and let my feet cast the final ballot.

   It's nice to know there are so many kind souls willing to take the time to share their experience and expertise on such a pedestrian subject.

   Thanks a million,-Jazzdogg-

    Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

1. 
   bleubassplyr | Feb 12, 2004 01:47am | #19

   Hey Jazzdogg,

   I wear New Balance running shoes after I've run in them for about 6-8 months. They still have plenty of cushion and feel great. I don't remember the last time I dropped anything on my foot in the shop. It's a natural reaction to pull your foot away if something falls anyway. Good luck.There are more old drunkards than old doctors.  Ben Franklin

1. 
   JohnWW | Feb 13, 2004 03:05am | #23

   Pulling your foot away only works (sometimes) if you see it coming. 

   These days steel toe shoes are often no more expensive than regular boots and steel toes are just as comfortable to wear as regular shoes, so why not have the extra protection?

   John W.

1. 
   Tao | Feb 13, 2004 03:32am | #24

   I work way too many hours, and I  used to wear out a pair of boots every six months or less.  Tried a different brand each time.  Red Wings were comfortable but heavy.  Doc Martins were very comfortable but fell apart fast.  Running shoes were good for about a month of 80 hour weeks.  Rockports didn't even last six months. When the midsoles and insoles start to break down they make my back and feet hurt. 

   I'm well over a year on the Wolverines with the Dura-shock soles, and they really beat all the others hands down for me.  Light, comfortable, durable.  They'll probably go another year.  They feel like a walk on the beach.

   Not trying to sell anything, just trying to share a good thing.

   Michael R.

11. 
    DougF | Feb 13, 2004 02:52am | #22

    My orthopaedist recently recommended SAS (San Antonio SHoes) shoes and they have been a lifesaver.  The high-end model which has support for the heel and the ball of the feet is not cheap at about $120; but, when you consider the option, not a bad price.  I also wear these shoes to work now and keep a pair for the shop.  SAS does not sell through other retailers, only their own stores.   

    Doug

12. 
    TomS | Feb 13, 2004 04:00am | #25

    Birk clogs would be alright, they have a closed-toe style.  Now, the sandals are another story.  I've posted before about dropping a 1 1/4" Scarey Sharp chisel on my big toe---in Birks.  Five hours, some stained towels and 9 stitches later.......

    Tom

13. 
    pockethole | Feb 13, 2004 06:28pm | #26

    I reviewed the Birkenstock website and noticed they have a hiking boot that sells for $239 (very steep).  They could possibly be used as workboots.  Anyone have experience with these? 

14. 
    jazzdogg | Feb 13, 2004 09:08pm | #27

    Hello all,

    I spent yesterday visiting shoe stores and thought I'd let you know what I bought after trying on more than a dozen pairs of shoes and boots.

    I should disclose that some of the boots/shoes you so kindly recommended seemed really great, but they just didn't fit my high arches well enough.

    I ended up with a pair of Florsheim Comfortech shoes with steel toes. All of the inside surfaces are generously padded, they provide ample arch support, they comfortably support my entire foot, the toe box is unconstricted, and the outsides are plain black leather - inconspicuous and easy to maintain.

    I found mine at Industrial Shoe Co. here in San Diego. They cost $140.

    Thanks for your advice and encouragement,
    -Jazzdogg-

    Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.
1. 
   Novy | Feb 13, 2004 11:47pm | #28

   Jazzdog,

    So the moral of the story " If the shoe fits, wear it"

    When I bought my Doc Martins I said to myself " My search is over"On a hill by the harbour

15. 
    SawdustSteve | Feb 15, 2004 06:26am | #31

    My feet are as flat as the top of my tablesaw and almost as wide (EEE).  I've had my best luck with Rockports.  The inner footpad comes out and I can put in my orthotics.  Unfortunately, Rockport discontinues some shoe styles every 3 years or so.  When I find a style and size I can use I usually buy 3 pair at a time.  I'll re-heel the shoe after 4-5 months then re-heet/sole the shoe 4-5 months later.  I repeat until the shoe is totally shot.  usually 3 or 4 cycles.  Then I open the next box.

    Depending on your feet and style of shoe you can wear, Knapp shoes are also good.  Two friends with 'normal' feet swear by Knapp shoes.  Both of them are on their feet all day on concrete surfaces.  

    SawdustSteve

16. 
    CarpenterJC | Feb 19, 2004 07:58am | #32

    After having a vise fall from a 36in high bench onto My foot and breaking several bones....I wear nothing but steel toe boots...ever try to rip a 4x8 sheet of plywood with crutches?...its not pretty....LOL

                                                                JC

1. 
   jazzdogg | Feb 19, 2004 09:36pm | #35

   "ever try to rip a 4x8 sheet of plywood with crutches?"

   Carpenter,

   Nope. I usually use a tablesaw (sorry, I couldn't resist).

   -Jazzdogg-Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

1. 
   CarpenterJC | Feb 20, 2004 04:34am | #37

   LMAO.....walked right into that one didnt I...steel hrad hat may be next if I walk into anymore...LOL...

                                                     JC

17. 
    Badjeros | Feb 19, 2004 09:06pm | #33

    Hello, Jazzdog,

    I suggest being fitted for orthotic inserts for your choice of footwear. If you can get past the first week getting used to the inserts, you will never go without them again. Get the type that are removable so that you might transfer the orthotic inserts from your work shoes to your running shoes, etc.. . I tried various high-end footwear to no avail, that is until I was fitted for orthotics. The downside is that orthotic inserts are quite expensive, mine cost over $400.00 Canadian money, but now I would not do without them.

    - None -

1. 
   jackiechan | Feb 19, 2004 09:25pm | #34

   None,

   An alternative to the $400 orthotics (assuming that they were purchased through a physician's office), would be to go to a high end (alpine) ski shop or custom ski boot fitter.  I have been skiing for my entire life, and raced competitively for a number of years, and as such, needed my boots custom fitted.  This included custom orthotics that could withstand the forces that I inflicted on them.  At most, I spent $200 (US), and was able to work with the technician to tweak the inserts to an absolute perfect fit.

   Dan Kornfeld, Owner/President - Odyssey Wood Design, Inc.

   Edited 2/19/2004 1:27:48 PM ET by Jackie Chan

2. 
   jazzdogg | Feb 19, 2004 09:47pm | #36

   "I suggest being fitted for orthotic inserts for your choice of footwear. "

   None,

   There's a high-end (based upon prices) store here in San Diego called "The Walking Store" that sells "orthotics." I went in looking for shop shoes and they immediately tried to steer me toward (HARD SELL) their $60 off-the-shelf insoles.

   The sales pitch started by having me stand on an array of sensors that were hooked up to a PC with which my feet were measured and insoles were "prescribed." I found it remarkable that, despite the fact that the data displayed on their PC clearly showed marked differences between my two feet, the insoles they prescribed were identical - no difference at all between the left and right insole. I couldn't help but wonder if they're filled with "snake oil.'

   How long do genuine orthotics last, in your experience? They sound like a terrific idea - once you can find someone competent and trustworthy to provide them.

   Thanks for the feedback,-Jazzdogg-Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

1. 
   Badjeros | Feb 22, 2004 12:56am | #38

   Hello, Jazzdogg,

   I was fitted for orthotic inserts after having being referred by my family doctor. I had initially sought out my doctors help because my feet were killing me. My doctor suggested that I had plantar facilititis(sic), a function of aging and concrete floors; as well as having very flat feet. I was referred to a podiatrist's clinic where I was given a " gait report" which sounds very similar to your snake oil salesmen's computer system. I walked over a pressure pad, one foot at a time, which generated via computer the gait report. The clinic then molded the inserts from the gait report data; and as you noted the data was markedly different from left to right foot. Then, two weeks later, the inserts were ready to be final fitted to my footwear. Sure enough, even a layman such as myself could clearly see the inserts were quite different left from right.

   The orthotic inserts take about two painful weeks to get feet, legs, and lower back into proper alignment , perhaps more or less time depending on how much alignment is required for comfort. I can not express adequately how wonderful these inserts have been for me and my comfort. I can work all day on concrete floors with no foot or leg pain.

   As to your original question, my experience with orthotic inserts is that they last about five years. However they can be reconditioned by the clinic for about one third the initial cost provided your prescription has not changed significantly.

   By the way, I do not sell orthotics nor am I a podiatrist, I am just a pain free believer.

   -None-

1. 
   jazzdogg | Feb 22, 2004 07:08am | #40

   None,

   Thanks for your testimonial; even the slickest sales person in the world can't top honest feedback from a satisfied customer.

   Here's to happy feet,-Jazzdogg-Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

18. 
    JerBear | Feb 22, 2004 04:23am | #39

    I go from muddy construction site to shopworking all day and have found the best shoe to be Wolverine Durashocks.  Been wearing them for around 6 years and it's all I will wear.   I could care less about the price, comfortable footwear is too important and worth every penny.  They come in extra wide triple E  which is a plus.  You get what you pay for.