You can watch my YouTube video for an in depth review of the Vionic Uptown loafer. Or you can get the bulleted blow by blow below if you’re in a hurry. One thing is sure; I’m keeping these and foresee lots of wear this fall in classroom as I substitute teach at my son’s high school.

Update autumn 2025: I’m still reaching for my Vionic Uptowns whenever I need to cover my toes due to chipped pedicure and general distaste of my arthritic feet! The soft suede is kind to my sensitive toes and instep. The arch support is just right and they go with all my casual outfits.

Here’s the lowdown:

• Toe box is generous but doesn’t look wide.
• Softest suede or leather uppers are forgiving of bunions and hammertoes.
• No irritating seams on the inside.
• Enhanced arch support.
• Good traction.
• Flexible outsole.
• True to size.
• Extended sizes, wide widths available.
• Versatile style.
• Comes in 11 colors.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: M & W • Price: $54-145 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos, Amazon & Nordstrom( find a deal on eBay).

Pick up a pair for the man in your life while you’re at it!

**The brown and white stripe dress was a lucky find at Amazon for under $30 And it has pockets!

The post Vionic Uptown Loafer: Arch Support in a Low Profile Loafer! appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

1. Vionic Orinda flat: I review this sweet flat in leopard here and also in my 5 Graceful Flats with Arch Support article. I also mention the Vionic Alameda mary jane if you have narrow heels and need a strap to keep them on (or just get a pair of cheap heel grips).

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: N, M & W • Price: $58-145 from Vionic Shoes, Amazon & Nordstrom

2. Vionic Uptown loafer: So kind to the bunions and hammertoes–the soft suede uppers are fabulous. Arch support is just what you’d expect from Vionic. Reviewed quickly in my video here and more in depth here.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: M & W • Price: $87-145 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos & Nordstrom

3. Taos Crave boot: Over the last few years I’ve seen Taos Footwear issue new, more updated boot styles, but I love my trusty Craves. They may not be available in as many colors and patterns as they used to (remember the plaid ones??) but they do come in wides now! See my original review here.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Widths: M & W • Price: $250 from Taos Footwear, Zappos & Amazon • Mini version available here

4. Sorel Out N About Wedge bootie: Clearly I’m not wearing these for an all-day traipse around town with my arthritic 57 year-old feet, but they work well for a casual outing where I want to look a little more put together. The toe box is rounded with a good fit at the ankle and a hidden 1 3/4 wedge heel for manageable lift. And they’re waterproof!

• Sizes: 5-12 • Width: M • Price: $85-130 from Sorel, Zappos, & Amazon

5. Topo Athletic Atmos: I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: I’m sold out for Topo Athletic Shoes. The wide and roomy toe box is heaven for my arthritic toes and accompanying bunions and hammertoes. And the snug fit at the midfoot and heel keeps the shoe secure. The Atmos model is incredibly lightweight yet offers excellent support and a rocker sole to keep the foot rolling forward through the stride taking pressure off the forefoot.

• Sizes: 6-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $108-165 from Zappos & Amazon

6. Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof boot: Great for non-technical hikes (I say this because I’m not a technical hiker and I’m sure there’s better boots out there for serious hikes). But, these Merrells serve me well for wet fall outings on our White River trail–my feet stay supported, dry and secure.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $99-170 from Merrell, Zappos & Amazon

The post 6 Fall Shoes for the Feeble-Footed 2025 appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

No worries—I’ve got you! I’ve researched and found 10 shoes that blend comfort, style, and professionalism effortlessly. From cushioned flats to modest heels and sleek boots, here are some office-friendly heroes your feet will actually thank you for:

Although you won’t want to trudge down the sidewalks in these modern square-toe flats by Franco Sarto, they’re the perfect “change-up” shoe to keep at the office. The Adalina features a cushioned footbed with extra padding at the heel and arch and a flexible rubber outsole. Customers state that the shoe runs large, so order accordingly.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $99-110 from Franco Sarto, Nordstrom, Zappos & Amazon

“I work in a medical office and these keep me comfy all day – no blisters or sore feet. The tumbled wheat color goes with everything. Love them!” – Glynnis, Dansko customer

The Dansko Lorrie is a polished dress-casual loafer versatile enough for an office setting and weekend wear. Featuring Dansko’s signature Natural Arch® technology, a cushioned removable insole, and a flexible rubber outsole makes it ideal for days when you’re on your feet but still want to look put-together. A half-inch heel provides a little lift.

• Sizes: euro 36-42 (5.5-11.5) • Width: M • Price: $80-145 from Dansko, Nordstrom & Zappos

“These shoes are a great fit and meet my needs for professional footwear. As a principal I’m on the go regularly and need to be comfortable. I’m able to wear these with my falling arches and plantar fasciitis and have no pain at the end of the day.” – Amazon customer

This day in age, it’s a blessing when you find a quality-made, comfortable and stylish shoe for under $80, but that defines the Clarks Juliet Palm loafer to a T. A pair of elastic gores and a curved topline make for easy on and off (and a secure fit). The Ultimate Comfort footbed features Ortholite cushioning and added arch support.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: N, M & W • Price: $50-84 from Amazon, Zappos & Macy’s

“They are super comfortable and look good with pants or a skirt. It’s hard to find cute shoes in a narrow width, and these are a winner!” – Nordstrom customer

The sweet Softwalk Valdivia mary jane features a square toe, removable cushioned footbed with moderate arch support, hook and loop closure (velcro), and a mini wedge heel (1/2″).

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: N, M, W, WW • Price: $134.95 from Nordstrom

“Good for the office as well as a coffee run. Highly recommend.” – Nordstrom customer

The Wonders Ballet Flat is a sleek, Spanish-made flat made up of soft leather or suede, a memory-gel cushioned insole, and a flexible rubber sole that moves naturally with your foot. The arch support is minimal.

• Sizes: euro 35-42 (5-11) • Width: M • Price: $168-194 from Nordstrom

6. Abeo Cadence Ballet

“I have some hammertoes that need surgery. I needed shoes I could wear all day for a funeral. The Cadence Ballet was very comfortable. For a change I went the entire day without even thinking about my feet. The small hidden heel on the inside is better for me than totally flat.” – The Walking Company customer

The ABEO Cadence Ballet flat includes built-in orthotics in two styles: Neutral for medium arch support and Metatarsal for forefoot pain and added support. You’ll also find a more spacious toe box than typical for a ballet flat and an elasticized topline that doesn’t dig into feet. A hidden one-inch wedge gets those heels off the ground (great for plantar fasciitis or achilles issues).

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $164.95 from The Walking Company & Nordstrom

The Born Pandora is a two-tone Mary Jane flat that gives you that handcrafted Born comfort with a little vintage flair. It has a cushioned footbed, soft leather interior, and a flexible rubber sole with 1/3″ heel. The adjustable strap helps keep your foot secure without rubbing, and the leather upper comes in pretty color combos that make it feel unique.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $84.95 from Born Shoes, Dillards & Zappos

8. Ecco Sculpted LX 35 Bootie

The sleek ECCO Sculpted LX Bootie features super-soft premium leather uppers, a cushioned removable insole, and ECCO’s Fluidform sole technology—meaning it absorbs shock but still feels flexible and natural when you walk. The low block heel (1.5″) gives a little lift without any wobble, and the inside lining is soft with no irritating seams.

• Sizes: euro 35-42 (4-11.5) • Width: M • Price: $164-184.95 from Nordstrom, Amazon & Zappos

“These were my first pair of heels from Ara. I can’t wear super high heels anymore but want some height. The first time I wore these, it was for work party and four hours later, my feet felt great. Highly recommend!” – Nordstrom customer

Classic, comfortable and quality-made describes the European Ara brand. The Ophelia pump features an almond toe, extra ball-of-foot cushioning, slight arch support and a modest 2″ block heel.

• Sizes: 5-10.5 • Width: M • Price: $90-185 from Nordstrom & Amazon

10. Clarks Kataleyna Gem

The kitten-heeled Clarks Kataleyna Gem is a pointed-toe pump that’s way more comfortable than it looks. It features Clarks’ Ultimate Comfort footbed—5 mm of cushioning, moderate arch support, and a breathable lining that helps keep feet from overheating. Reviewers love that it’s dressy enough for work or special occasions, yet soft and flexible enough to wear all day without limping by lunchtime. Many mention the insole feels pillowy and makes standing or walking for hours much easier than expected.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $60-66 from Zappos, Amazon & Macy’s

The post 10 Comfortable & Stylish Office Appropriate Shoes 2025 appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Have you struggled to find sophisticated shoes that will actually relieve pain? Podiatrist-designed Frankie4 Footwear is here for you and your bad feet. Modern styles using the most luxurious leathers make Frankie4 a desirable brand but it’s their innovative removable and replaceable Sole Hero® footbed that sets them apart. You can see in my video what it looks like–this is no chintzy, flimsy insole! It’s densely cushioned with heel, arch and forefoot support.

A Sole Saver Pack® is included in the box to help you get the best fit possible for your unique foot shape. Take out the full-length footbed and insert the half-length if you need more room at the forefoot. If you need to snug up the fit for narrower feet or heels, add the forefoot cushions under the full-length footbed. Genius!

Watch my video review of the Frankie4 Foxx loafer for more information on fit and feel.

• Sizes: 6-13 • Width: M • Price: $198 from Frankie4 & Nordstrom

Good news for educators! Frankie4 offers an exclusive 15% off each order of their stylish and supportive footwear.

Want to try Frankie4 for a fraction of the retail price? Visit my curated collection on eBay!

The post Frankie4 Footwear: Luxurious Shoes with Customizable Insoles appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

“Excellent arch support. Super comfortable on toes.” -Taos Footwear customer, Tracy

The first pair of most comfortable mary janes in our round up, the Taos Ultimate, will win over problem-footed gals. The generous toe box, removable footbed with enhanced arch and high quality leathers sooth and support achy feet.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $185 from Taos Footwear & Zappos

“This is a great shoe for dressing up or down. It’s got a wonderful support insole that’s also easily removed for a custom orthotic. This will become my go-to work shoe.” – Satisfied Earth Shoes customer

We love a good cork midsole for stability, support and shock-absorption and the round-toe Kalece mary jane by Earth has it and more! Structured arch support and an adjustable hook and loop (velcro) strap add to its all-day comfort.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Width: M & W • Price: $68-129 from Earth Shoes, Nordstrom & Amazon

A Dansko that comes in wides! The Stacy mary jane features a removable cushioned footbed with arch support–it should accommodate your orthotic. A slip-resistant rubber outsole makes these comfortable mary janes secure on most surfaces.

• Sizes: Euro 36-42 (5-12) • Widths: M & W • Price: $135 from Dansko, Zappos & Nordstrom

“They are adorable. If you have wide forefeet with bunions, they are a dream. They run short and narrow- the Birkenstock website has regular/wide (C/D) sizes in some colors. I got a 42 wide and I usually wear a 41 in sandals but they fit so well and they do not look like clown feet.” -Barking Dog Shoes Facebook follower, Cynthia

Of course if your feet crave mary janes with arch support, Birkenstock’s got you! The Tracy features a contoured cork-latex footbed that molds to your foot, soft leather upper, and adjustable buckle strap for a snug fit. If you’re between sizes or prefer extra space, the regular width is a safe bet.

• Sizes: Euro 36-42 (5-11.5) • Widths: N (narrow-medium), R (medium-wide) • Price: $139.95 from Birkenstock USA, Zappos & Amazon

Criss, cross, applesauce, these are cute! The Taos Exhale features a removable footbed with enhanced arch and metatarsal support. Soft leather uppers comfort bunions and hammertoes while an elasticized topline and criss-cross straps keep the shoe secure.

• Sizes: 6-11 • Width: M • Price: $160 from Taos Footwear, Zappos & Amazon

I have the loafer version of the Vionic Uptown and love how they support my arches, so I’m tempted to spring for a pair of the mary janes. The arch support insole is removable and can accommodate an orthotic, plus they’re APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) approved!

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: M & W • Price: $58-135 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos & Amazon

“Most ballet flats with support look very chunky and do not appeal to me. These are different. They have hidden support and I have been able to wear and walk in them comfortably.” – Fitflop customer Cerise

We admire Fitflop’s dedication to designing footwear for feeble feet. Based on the popular Delicato flat, this comfortable mary jane features soft leather uppers and cushioned insoles with arch support. As of now, the Fitflop Delicato MJ is only available via Nordstrom, but the reviews of the ballet flat version of the shoe are excellent.

• Sizes: 5-11 • Width: M • Price: $84-125 from Fitflop, Zappos & Amazon

Stylish, comfortable mary janes that come in three widths are hard to find but here you go! The Vionic Alameda features the on trend square toe and comes with two pair of insoles (one has higher arch support). Board-certified foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Michelle Allen Morse (aka “Dr. Elite Feet on Instagram) rocks the Vionic Alameda in this Instagram reel, “The Vionic Alameda Mary Jane Flat caught my eye for its vintage charm, but what really impressed me? The built-in biomechanics.” I agree wholeheartedly as I own the similar Vionic Orinda that I review here.

• Sizes: 5-13 • Widths: N, M & W • Price: $145 from Vionic Shoes, Zappos & Amazon

“I have a bunion on my right foot so I like the wider toe box, but the straps mean I can tighten the back part of the shoe where my foot is quite narrow.” – Mary, Rothy’s customer

Most Rothy’s flats are a bit too flat for all-day support, but if you’re searching for an attractive mary jane that will conform to bunions, this one is it! The Rothy’s Double Buckle Mary Jane features a soft, flexible upper, slightly cushioned removable insole and two adjustable buckles for a snug fit–plus they’re machine washable!

• Sizes: 5-13 • Width: M • Price: $129-165 from Rothy’s & Nordstrom (had a computer glitch that sent wrong size, now corrected)

Podiatrist-designed Frankie4 footwear is chic, modern and foot-friendly. Each pair comes with a Sole Saver Pack® of adjustable footbeds and forefoot cushions for a customizable fit. We love the silver metallic Hepburn mary jane, but it comes in neutrals too! See our review of the classy Frankie4 Fox loafer for more information on the comfort features of this brand.

• Sizes: 6-13 • Width: M (but customizable fit pack creates extra width or snugs up for narrower feet) • Price: $198 from Frankie4.

The post Most Comfortable Mary Janes Ranked 1 to 10! appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I picture Goldilocks trying on these Clarks loafers and saying, “Ahh, just right.” The lug sole isn’t too chunky, the toe box isn’t too wide and clownish. The arch support is neither too aggressive (Birkenstock) or too flat (dare I say Rothy’s flats?). The cushioning is noticeable but not marshmallowy. I was drawn to this Clarks loafer mainly because of its price point, good looks and 5 star reviews for comfort.

If you’re looking for a stylish, affordable loafer for a dress casual environment, the Clarks Westlynn Bella is worth a try! Note that if you plan to wear with socks, ordering up a half size may be your best best.

I highlight the comfort features, fit, feel and sizing in my video review.

• Sizes: 5-12 • Widths: M & W • Price: $61-95 from Clarks, Amazon & Zappos

The post Clarks Westlynn Bella Loafer: A Goldilocks Shoe “It’s Just Right” appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I love a chunky wedge slide with soft leather vamp to cover the bunions! The ‘90s-inspired Gwen platform sandal features a 2.75″ heel, 1″ platform, cushioned footbed and rubber sole. Customers comment that the Gwen runs slightly wide. Available in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $159.95 from Miz Mooz, Nordstrom and Amazon.

Do you have a special occasion to attend this summer but can’t manage a towering heel?The demure Miz Mooz Bela sandal will carry you through the day into evening comfortably with its 2½” block heel, cushioned leather insole, and wide bunion-concealing straps. Its adjustable ankle buckle ensures a secure fit, while a durable rubber sole keeps you steady. The Bela is available in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $159.95 from Miz Mooz, Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos.

For a more narrow foot, consider the Miz Mooz Symone with an adjustable buckle forefoot strap. Versatile, minimalistic with a touch of hardware, the Symone features a lightly cushioned footbed and a low one-inch block heel. Available in sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $139.95 from Miz Mooz, Nordstrom, Zappos and Amazon.

Cover up the bunions and other imperfections in the Miz Mooz Dylan ruched leather sandal. Functional dual side zippers make for easy on and off. Available in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $159.95 from Miz Mooz, Nordstrom and Amazon.

A modern Mary Jane with a soft leather upper, cushioned footbed, and edgy grommet strap with real buckle. Customers love the flattering V-cut vamp and supportive fit that works well for all-day wear. Find the Miz Mooz Zephyr in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $159.95 from Miz Mooz, Nordstrom and Amazon.

The Miz Mooz Kimmy

A great option for feet that are wider at the toes and narrow at the heels! The Kimmy features a generous toe box (for a flat) in soft forgiving leather and an elastic band at the heel to keep the shoe secure. Available in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $129.95 from Nordstrom, Zappos and Amazon.

A classic lace-up oxford with a low heel and cushioned insole. Crafted from smooth leather that softens with wear. Reviewers appreciate the “dress shoe look with sneaker comfort” and often buy it in multiple colors. Find the Letty in euro sizes 36-42 (5.5-11) for $159.95 from Nordstrom, Zappos and Amazon.

Full of vintage charm, the Miz Mooz Louise envelopes the foot in supple leather for all-day comfort. Customer reviews mention that the boot makes large feet look smaller! Available for $199.95 from Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos.

Born in New York in 2001, Miz Mooz crafts retro-inspired, fashion-forward footwear designed in NYC and produced in small, family‑owned European workshops in Italy and Portugal. The brand emphasizes ethical sourcing, using high‑quality, buttery-soft leathers from responsibly minded tanneries. Each pair features cushioned footbeds, rubberized soles, supportive stacked heels and adjustable closures—prioritizing comfort without sacrificing style. Skilled artisans hand‑burnish and add unique detailing for an individualized finish. Customers and reviewers praise the supple leathers, break‑in comfort, distinctive vintage charm and reliable real‑life wearability.

The post Spotlight on 8 Beautifully-Hued Miz Mooz Shoes appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I was searching for a comfortable classic beige ballet flat and stumbled across this newer style by Fitflop–the Delicato. These Fitflop flats are feminine, soft, lightly cushioned and even have a removable footbed with minimal to moderate arch support. The slightly squared toe and soft forgiving leather makes bunions and hammertoes happy. The Delicato is quite flexible, so if you have metatarsalgia or hallux rigidus, these probably aren’t for you!

The fit is almost true for my size 10 medium width feet. The length is good and my toes have room, but the sides gape a little–better for a wider foot? Maybe. The heel fits better than the other Fitflop flats I had a few years ago (the Allegro style slipped off my heels). Watch my video review for more details on fit and feel! A rubber sole with slight 1/4″ heel give your heels a little lift off the ground.

The post Fitflop Delicato Ballet Flat Review from a Fifty-Something with RA appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

Vivaia Shoes: Feedback on comfort and support:

• Good for bunions – Stretchy material helps accommodate bunions in some styles, especially flats.
• Mixed arch support – Some users found the Walker styles comfortable for plantar fasciitis, while others needed extra arch support.
• Walker styles fit and feel better – Shoes labeled as “Walker” styles, which have a small wedge, provide better comfort and fit.
• Flat styles lack support – Some users felt the standard flats lacked sufficient arch support compared to other brands like Rothy’s.
• Sport Sandals better for hallux rigidus – Vivaia sport sandals have a thick outsole, soft straps and cushioned, supportive insole help with forefoot conditions.
• Boot styles work for some better than flats – the lug boots are forgiving of bunions, have good insole and minimal heel incline.
• Rigid and uncomfortable for some – A few users found the flats stiff and uncomfortable, returning them.
• Runs narrow – Many users reported that the toe box is too small, particularly in pointy-toe flats.
• Widths– Some styles come in wides.
  
  

Quality & Durability:

• Machine washable – Users appreciated that Vivaia shoes can be easily cleaned.
• Lightweight – Many found the shoes to be super lightweight.
• Mixed opinions on construction – Some found them comfortable, while others thought they felt cheap or stiff.
  

Customer Service & Returns:

• Mixed return experiences – Some had a smooth return process, while others faced confusion over refunds.
• Issues with order management – One user accidentally placed an order in their sleep, but customer service successfully intercepted and refunded it.
• Trust Pilot score: A quick check of Trust Pilot indicates a 4.7/5 overall score for Vivaia.com.
• 
  

I just noticed a style called “All-Day Standing Flats” which purport to have two times the arch support as the regular flats (they’re also water-repellent). Let me know if you’ve tried this style!

Most Vivaia styles are available in whole and half sizes 5-11 (I saw a few size 12s) medium and wide widths for $79-129 at Vivaia.com. Some styles are available through Nordstrom and Amazon.

The post Vivaia Shoes: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly appeared first on Barking Dog Shoes.

I actually said these words last night to my husband, “I’m scared of spring because of my toes.” Some of you will catch my drift immediately. But with a little bit of Jergens Natural Glow and a breezy pair of Vionic Pismo sneakers, I will march forward with confidence into a new season. I’m waiting on my order, but wanted to get the word out about the Vionic Pismo as I predict it will sell out quickly. And thank you, Vionic, for bringing back this beachy-vibe sneaker as I thought it was gone forever! I will update this post when I have the shoes on my feet. In the meantime, let’s hear how the Vionic Pismo fits and feels from heel to toe based on customer reviews.

• Heels: this shoe fits snugly at heels mainly due to the elasticized no-tie laces that turn it into a slip-on and the close fit at the ankle.
• Instep: Due to the stretch cotton no-tie laces, the Pismo may fit tight over the instep, which is good if you have a low volume foot, but may cause some discomfort if your foot is high volume (more information about low volume/high volume feet here).
• Insole support: If you’re familiar with Vionic’s trademark orthotic-like arch support, the Pismo may let you down. Think of it this way, this casual beachy-vibe shoe is not meant to be a walking shoe, rather a more supportive alternative to Keds, Vans, Sanuks and Toms. 73% of Zappos reviewers feel the Pismo offers moderate arch support. The insole is removable, but probably won’t accommodate a full orthotic well due to its snug fit and low profile, however I did read that someone was able to wear the Pismo comfortably with her 3/4 orthotic under the insole.
• Insole cushioning: some reviews mention that the cushioning is minimal.
• Toe box: while the shape isn’t overly wide, the Vionic Pismo should accommodate a medium to slightly wide forefoot with no problem. If you have moderate to large bunions, you may find the toe box too narrow. Note the stitching at the bunion could cause irritation.
• Fabric: soft ethically-produced cotton and recycled jersey textile. Machine washable.
• Sole: TPR outsole (thermoplastic rubber).
• Fit: most customers state that the Pismo runs true to size and best fits a slightly narrow to slightly wide foot.

The Vionic Pismo is available in a variety of colors, sizes 5-12, medium and wide widths for $66-70 from VionicShoes.com, Zappos, and Amazon.

Vionic Pismo

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