paying once and crying once when it comes to shoe shopping.. (money, old) - Frugal Living - Page 2 - City-Data Forum

tijlover · 10-11-2010, 10:28 PM

I just hate to shop. And when I do, I make sure I won't be returning for years, literally.

I went on a used shoe/sandal-buying spree a couple years ago, went to three thrift stores, bought 15 pairs, any number of them expensive name-brand shoes.

I've got enough shoes to last me 10-15 years. Maybe 20.

I do the same with pants, shirts, other clothing. One big mega buy and it will be years before I return.

jlawrence01 · 10-11-2010, 11:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tijlover

I went on a used shoe/sandal-buying spree a couple years ago, went to three thrift stores, bought 15 pairs, any number of them expensive name-brand shoes.

I've got enough shoes to last me 10-15 years. Maybe 20.

I am in that boat also. Buy a number of good quality shoes at the thrift store for < $5. Keep the ones that are comfortable, ditch the ones that are not.

I have gone the expensive shoe route and have found that they are no more comfortable than the others.

Good insoles are the key.

pvande55 · 10-18-2010, 01:08 PM

I read that more expensive shoes are actually associated with a higher rate of injury. Maybe because the more expensive, the longer you go between replacement.

jtur88 · 10-19-2010, 09:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pvande55

I read that more expensive shoes are actually associated with a higher rate of injury. Maybe because the more expensive, the longer you go between replacement.

No, it's because the more expensive shoes cost more because of the fashion design that is in them, rather than their utility as a shoe.

I suspect that more "injuries" arise from wearing new shoes, than old. An old shoe has formed to fit your foot and your walking style.

beachmouse · 10-19-2010, 10:31 AM

I'd be interested to see the injury breakdown between women's heels and shoes in the loafers/flats category. A lot of high heeled shoes are not gentle on the legs if you have to walk much in them (see the women who wear sneakers on their mass transit commute in major cities, and then change into heels in the office).

OTOH, I've had nothing but happy legs when wearing my Ecco loafers.

plaidmom · 10-20-2010, 04:00 PM

As I once told my daughter "we're too poor to buy cheap shoes!"

christine12 · 10-30-2010, 06:35 PM

If you have foot problems like me, best to have your shoes fitted by a podiatrist or physical therapist. Custom made shoes can be pricey but in my experience, last a lot longer and give me the support I need. Plus, you can also have just the heels changed if they wear out.

lottamoxie · 10-31-2010, 09:42 PM

Good orthotics and support is key, along with a wide enough toe bed. Shoes are an investment--they can help prevent low back pain and other structural problems. Don't scrimp on good shoes. Work with a podiatrist and a professional shoe person if you have foot or arch issues.

SifuPhil · 11-02-2010, 09:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jtur88

I suspect that more "injuries" arise from wearing new shoes, than old. An old shoe has formed to fit your foot and your walking style.

If this is true, as I believe it is, then what does that say regarding buying used shoes? They've already been "formed" to someone else's foot, and I don't believe they would re-form...

LABART · 11-02-2010, 11:35 AM

I don't have a lot shoes. A pair of sandles. A pair of Nikes--I just bought these about five months ago. I have tried to buy cheap sneakers, but my feet are just too sensitive. I also have a pair of Merrell light hiking shoes that I only wear in winter. I have had these for about 3 1/2 years now and I've only had to replace the laces.
I have thought about buying used shoes, but to me it's like wearing used underwear, I'd rather go without, unless I had no other choice.