Chapter 11 - SAS Styles TOUR and JOURNEY

Sometimes we just want to fit in with everyone else. Since the Athletic Craze hit full force in the 80's everybody wants to wear them - sometimes all the time. I always like to remind people of one thing, that is they call them Athletic Shoes for a reason. Some are made for Basketball, some are made for running, some are made for jogging, etc., etc.  Most Athletic Shoe manufacturers specifically design their styles for specific sports and they are not designed for daily use. Also, they are usually only available in Medium Widths (which is O.K. if you wear a Medium Width - unfortunately many people do not).

　
SAS SHOEMAKERS introduced their ACTIVE COMFORT Shoes for both Men and Women in 2010. These shoes have been engineered to have the same comfort features as SAS's top selling Walking Shoes. All of these styles are available in SLIMS, NARROWS, MEDIUMS, WIDES and WIDE WIDE (with the except of Journey Grey with is not available in Slims yet) to ensure a proper fit.

TOUR (for women) is available in all over White Leather with light blue accents, Black Leather with grey accents, and a Leather Mesh Combo in White withs silver accents.

JOURNEY (for men) is available in all over White Leather with grey accents, all over Black Leather with grey accents, and a Leather/Mesh Combo in Grey. The accent colors are reflective.

TOUR for WOMEN (Shown in Leather/Mesh Combo)

JOURNEY for MEN (Show in White)

　

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Each box includes a Product Sheet that shows what SAS has put into these shoes make them exceptional. Let's start at the bottom and work our way up.

The outsole is a flexible, durable rubber compound that is designed to provide maximum grip and comfort. The outsole is non-marking.

The shoes have SAS Steady Trac Midsoles which are shock absorbing, lightweight with forepart stabilizer that provides lateral stability. The Arcfit heel stabilizer gives a firm yet gentle support to encourage proper heel strike on all types of surfaces.

The same as SAS's walking shoes their ACTIVE COMFORT shoes have the green odor resistant Tri-pad cushions that cushion the pressure points of the feet. These lie under the Ball of the foot and heel.

SAS's new CoolStep Footbed is the best footbed to date in my opinion. This one is designed to keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long. It has an anti-friction cover that helps prevent heat buildup. The bottom layer helps wick away moisture while cushioning every step you take. It is also antibacterial and washable which will help keep your feet healthier.

Now that we have covered the four layers of cushioning and shock absorption let's move on to the uppers.

The uppers are made of Durable, Soft, Supple, Breathable Leather with plenty of ventilation to help keep your feet cool and dry. The shoes are designed with the natural shape of the foot to provide all day comfort. They have a wide wraparound heel counter to help maintain stability and SAS's exclusive EZ Lace system.

I have been wearing the Women's Leather/Mesh combo for a couple years now. I love that they are lightweight, breathable and most of all comfortable. On top of that they look good (which is always an added bonus). I even worn them to visit the Mayan Ruins on Belize in 2009. We walked for several hours and I was the only tourist who did not complain about my feet hurting.

As always, it is important to make sure you buy the proper size. When buying athletic shoes you should always make sure that the shoes are wide enough to stay comfortable at the ball of the foot and roomy enough in the front so your toes are not cramped. The heel should be snug and should not slip while walking.


SAS will not allow their shoes to be sold over the Internet, and I agree with their policy. The size and shape of your feet do change from year to year. It is important to be fitted by an expert. If you're in or near the Nashville, TN area please come by and visit Ensor's SAS Shoes, 4022 Nolensville Road, Nashville, TN 37211 (615-834-7458).

　

Chapter 10 - Plantar Fasciitis

 Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common foot ailments that I deal with on a regular basis. I have listened to more people describe their symptoms that when I got it I knew exactly what it was. I can tell you from experience - it is not something that you ever want to have.


WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?  Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot. This tissue is called the plantar fascia. It connects the heel bone to the toes and creates the arch of the foot and when it's inflamed it HURTS.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS? The most common complaints are PAIN and STIFFNESS in the bottom of the heel. That pain can be sharp or dull and the bottom of the foot could also burn or ache. The pain is usually worse as you try to take your first steps in the morning, after sitting or standing for a length of time, when climbing stairs or after intense activity. The pain may develop slowly over time, or suddenly after intense activity. There can also be some mild foot swelling or redness.

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES? Plantar Fasciitis occurs when that thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused. Studies also state that Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles, foot arch problems, long-distance running, sudden weight gain, and tight Achilles Tendon increase your changes of having this problem.

 
Plantar Fasciitis is commonly thought of as being caused by a heel spur, but research has found that this is not the case. Heel spurs are seen in people with and without plantar fasciitis.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS? OH, that's a very good question and there is a very long list of answers. I'll start by telling what I do.

MY SUGGESTIONS:

1.....Get a new pair of shoes. Get shoes with good arch support and cushions (like SAS Walking Shoes mentioned in Chapter 9)

2.....Do some stretching exercises. I do a stretch exercise before I even get out of bed (see Picture 2) Through out the day I step on the edge of a step and then lower my body up and down. This pulls and helps loosen the Achilles Tendon and Calf Muscles (See Picture 3). This really helps me.

 

Picture 2 - Morning Stretch

Picture 3 - Stretching Exercises

 

3.....If my feet are really inflamed I might take an anti-inflammatory medication such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin. You might want to check with your doctor first about this.

OTHER TREATMENTS:

1.....Resting as much as possible for a week (who can do that?).

2.....Apply ice to the painful area. Do this at least twice a day for 10-15 minutes, you may want to do it more often in the first few days.

3.....Try wearing a heel cup, felt pads in the heel area or other shoe inserts.

4.....Use night splints to stretch the fascia overnight and help it to heal faster.

IF THOSE DON'T WORK a Health Care Provider may recommend:

1.....Wearing a boot cast for up to 6 weeks (looks like a ski boot).

2.....Custom Made Shoe Inserts (orthotics)

3.....Steroid Shots or injections into the heel (Ouch).

4.....Foot surgery may be necessary.

In almost all cases Non-surgical treatments will improve the pain and help your feet heal. I have never had Plantar Fasciitis more that 3 months, but for some treatment can last from several months to several years.

 
I have not had Plantar Fasciitis for over 4 years now. Why you ask? It's because I replace my shoes with the best supportive shoes I can find (SAS) at the first sign of back, knee or foot pain and I continue with my stretching exercises on a daily basis.

MY ADVICE:
1.....Your feet take you everywhere you go - take care of them.  Always wear proper fitting comfortable supportive shoes.

Chapter 9 - SAS Styles FREETIME and TIME OUT

 

 As we left Chapter 8 I stated that Chapter 9 would be about my recommendations for the best supportive and comfortable shoes for everyday wear.

 

 

In business since 1976 SAS (San Antonio Shoemakers) have consistly created footwear that stands well above most other brands.  They use the finest leathers, design their footwear for actual feet, and create a product that not only feels good but one that lasts.  All of their footwear in Hand Crafted in the United States.

 

Their styles FREETIME and TIME OUT are their top selling styles and there is no doubt why.

 

 

FREETIME and TIME OUT where designed for serious walkers. These styles have everything  walking shoe should have. And, although designed for walkers, these shoes are that and so much more. I recommend them for anyone that works on hard surfaces or does a lot of walking on their jobs. I also recommend them to people with foot pain and that's why so many doctors also recommend these styles for their patients. These styles have the added depth needed for Orthodics and Braces.

 

FREETIME for Women (shown in Mocha)

TIME OUT for Men (shown in Walnut)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I could write technical information here, but will just write what I tell my customers about them as I show them using my cut-in-half sample of the shoe.

 

 

1. They have a broad base for solid support underneath your feet.

 

2. They have a wide and deep toe box so your toes have plenty of room to spread out like nature intended.  Many people feel that the shoe is too big because of all the toe room but your toes should have enough room to turn flips, play the piano or anything else you can think of in there, AND trust me after about 30 minutes you will realize the joy of having all that toe room.

 

3. They have a wide wraparound heel counter for stability. This is what keeps your ankles straight and helps you keep balance.

 

4. There is extra cushioning underneath the ball of the foot and the heel (the main pressure points).

 

5. There is an extra layer of cushioning in the midsole. I love that extra layer.

 

6. The sole is a polyurethane material that has millions of air bubbles in it. (Supportive yet bouncy at the same time).

 

7. The soft cushioned removable insole with added arch literally molds to the feet.  Removable to accomodate othotics or any special inserts. This insole can and should be washed from time to time. Cleaning instructions are included in every shoe box. You can also buy replacement insoles at SAS Stores. By doing so you will help to extend the life of your shoes.

 

8. That's four (4) layers of cushioning and shock absorption underneath your feet which is not only good for your feet but the rest of your body too. Try a pair of these on and just feel the support and cushioning underneath your feet.

 

9. These styles are lightweight and well ventilated to keep your feet cool and dry.  Even the tongue of the shoe is ventilated.

 

10. They are also available in a wide range of sizes and widths

AND color choices (Black being the Number One color in both).

 

3W's available in Mens & Womens in BLACK ONLY

 

 

11. These styles are recommended by Podiatrists, Orthopedic Doctors, The American Diabetic Association, AND me (because I actually wear them).

 

FREETIME  (for Women) is available in White, Black, Bone, Mocha, Navy and Teak smooth leathers, and Charcoal Nubuck in all the Sizes and Widths shown in the Chart above. Black Smooth is also available in3W (WWW) in sizes 5 to 12

 

TIMEOUT(for Men) is available in Black, Bone and Walnut in all the Sizes and Widths shown in the Chart above. Black is also available in 3W (WWW) in sizes 6 to 13.

 

 

SAS also makes these styles in a Velcro Version that has all the same qualities and comfort as their Lace- Up versions.

 

ME TOO for Women (shown in White)

VTO for Men (Shown in Black)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ME TOO  (for Women) is available in White, Black and Mocha Smooth Leathers and is available in all the Sizes and Widths in the Chart Above. Black is also available in 3W (WWW) in sizes 5 to 12.

 

 

VTO (for Men) is available in Black and Bone. Black is available in all Sizes and Widths shown in the Chart above and 3W (WWW) in sizes 6 to 13. Bone is available in Narrow 10-13, Medium 7-13, Wide 7-13 and Wide Wide 7-13.

 

So, whether you walk for health, you walk or stand on your job, OR are just looking for the most comfortable shoe on the market you need to try these shoes on. Chances are while you're trying them on another customer will tell you how great they are. Our customers that wear these styles purchase them over and over and over. I'm even wearing Freetime in Charcoal as I write this blog.

 

 

SAS will not allow their shoes to be sold over the Internet, and I agree with their policy. The size and shape of your feet do change from year to year. It is important to be fitted by an expert. If you're in or near the Nashville, TN area please come by and visit Ensor's SAS Shoes, 4022 Nolensville Road, Nashville, TN  37211.

 

Chapter 8 - What to Look for In A Shoe

It's take Seven Chapters for me to get to this - the ultimate reason why I started this blog and now I am ready to start talking about shoes.

We established in Chapter 1 that your feet are your daily mode of transportation. We established in Chapter 2 that your feet serve as Shock Absorbers for the rest of your body. We established in Chapter 3 that you should take care of those feet. We established in Chapter 4 that the size and shape of your feet change throughout your lifetime. In Chapters 5 and 6 we explained how measuring devices help determine the length and width of your feet and therefore help determine a good starting point in getting a proper fit. In Chapter 7 we gave you a Width Conversion Chart to help with differences in width sizing. Now, we must move on.

The question now is: What do I look for in a pair of shoes? That's a very good question, but question back at you is: What type of shoes are you looking for? Do you want Dress Shoes, Work Shoes, Walking Shoes, Athletic Shoes, etc. ?

Let's start with our every day shoes and we will assume that everyone does a little walking and a little standing during the day. Your answer is:

(1) The first thing you need to do is to go to a Shoe Store that knows their products and know how to fit them.

(2) The first thing you look for is a shoe with a broad base that fits under your entire foot. One that solid - contoured.

(3) you look for a shoe that has a sole that is supportive and cushioned under the ball of the foot and the heel (your main pressure points).

(4) You look for a shoe that has a roomy toe box that gives you plenty of room to wiggle your toes.

(5) You look for a shoe that has a wide wraparound heel counter for stability around your heel.

(6) You look for a shoe that has plenty of venilation to help keep you feet cool and dry.

(7) You look for a leather shoe because you want the lightweightness, the softness and the breathability of leather.

You next question should be: How should these shoes fit? Your answer is:

(1) You intial fit should allow you the foot to settle naturally in the the footbed of the shoe.

(2) The arch should feel like it's in the proper place.

(3) The widest part of your foot (at the big toe joint) should be in the widest part of the shoe.

(4) You should have about 1/2 in of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, and your toes should have plenty of wiggle room.

(5) Lastly, they should feel comfortable. Even if you met 1 - 4 your comfort is the most important thing. If they don't feel just right as to try other sizes near your size to see if you can find one that's more comfortable.

You next question should be: Where can I find comfortable shoes? You answer is:

(1) If you live or around the Nashville, TN  area go to Ensor's SAS Shoes, 4022 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211 (615-834-7458), or an SAS Shoe Dealer near you.

You next question should be:  What styles would you recommend?  Your answer is: SAS FREETIME (for Women) and TIME OUT (for Men).  Chapter 9 will go into detail why these two styles set the level for ultimate support and comfort.  Hopefully, it will post shortly after this.

FREETIME (for Women)

TIME OUT (for Men)

　

Chapter 7 - Widths

Before I start this week's blog I have to add a little story.  I pretty sure that my now you know that most places that sell shoes only carry Medium Widths.  Why you ask?  Because most people think they wear Mediums.  YES, that is correct - most people think they wear Mediums.  I, on the other hand, wear Slims.

Twice a year I like to go to the most expensive, exclusive Department Store's Shoe Department and pick out the most beautiful and expensive style in the place.  I casually walk up to the Salesperson and ask for an 8 Slim.  I love to look at that person's face as they tell me they don't carry Slims.  I shake my head as disappointed and then say "alright, how about a 7 /12 Narrow (knowing full well they don't carry it either).  I know, it's mean but it's just the way I get my jollies.

Let's get to the subject at hand now - Widths.  It is true that most people do wear Mediums but there are a lot of us out there also that do not.  Shoe Widths used to be available in A, B, C, D, E, EE and EEE, but today most manufacturers have opted to use Slim, Narrow, Medium, Wide, Wide Wide and X-Wide.  Men's widths vary from Women's widths.  A Men's Medium is actually a D.  A Women's Medium is a B.

Below is a Conversion Chart:

Again, I have to say that none of this is an exact science.  It is only a beginning point to finding the proper fit.  Some shoes run Narrow.  Some shoes run Wide.  Some people have high insteps. Some shoes run Short, and on and on and on.  That is why it is important to find an EXPERT when it comes to footwear.  An EXPERT will know which of their styles run which way and what styles will work for you.

Next week we start talking about what to look for in shoes.  As always, thanks for stopping by and reading my blogs. 

Chapter 6 - SO, How Did Things Really Measure Up?

I could probably write an entire book on this subject but I doubt I could hold any one's interest for that long.  So, I'm breaking this down hopefully just enough to put enough detail to make it more easy to understand.

 I would like to mention at this point that your personal comfort is the most important thing and that measuring your feet is only the starting point in the process of getting the best fit.  None of what you read here is an exact science - it's just the beginning.  So here are the basics that we go by:

1.  The ball of your foot should fit in the widest part of the shoe.  This should put your arch and the break of the shoe in the proper place.  I recommend going by your arch measurement to assure this.

2.  The width of the shoe should be determined by the the length you choose. The shoe should fit snug enough at the ball of the foot and the heel to be comfortable but not to tight.  The width is also determined by the length you  choose.  If you choose a longer shoe you will most likely go narrower.  If you choose a shorter shoe you will most likely go wider. 

3.  There should be 1/2 inch between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.  This gives you plenty of room and helps avoid sore toes.

I always like to take into consideration what my customer is telling me when it is determined that maybe they are not in the correct size, but I also like to explain to them exactly what I am seeing too.  Somewhere along the way we meet to get that perfect fit.

As far as what measurement I start with it is always the arch measurement and the width that coordinates with it and then go from there.  I also measure my customers feet in a standing position.  As I stated in my last blog - there are so many variables in helping a customer get the proper fit, comfort and support they are seeking.  A high instep may increase the width, large bunions will most likely do the same thing.  All these things must be taken into consideration.

Remember, your personal comfort is always the most important thing.  Do not let your salesperson bully you into buying a size or pair of shoes that you are not comfortable in or with.  Instead of wearing new shoes out the door try wearing them at home on the carpet for a few hours.  That way if there is a problem you should be able to return them or exchange for another size or style. Most stores will not take back worn shoes.



I think in next week's blog I will go into detail about widths - so I'm not ready yet to send you out shoe shopping.  Stay tuned.

Chapter 5 - How Do Things Measure Up?

So far we have established that the foot is our means of locomotion and support.  We have also established that those feet need to be taken care of and that those feet seem to change during the course of ones life.

As we left Chapter 4 (Does Size Matter) we were discussing that everyone should have their feet measured as lease once a year by a professional.

The Brannock  was designed in 1927 by Charles F. Brannock.  The Brannock Device is available in Men's, Women's and Children's.  For a complete history of the device go to:  http://brannock.com/

The Brannock Device measures (1) Toe Length, (2) Arch Length, and (3) Width.  The device is designed to measure both the right and left feet by simply turning it around.  By using this device a knowledgeable salesperson can determine a starting point for properly fitting their customers.  In short, it eliminates a lot of the guess work.  While this device can determine the three most crucial measurements, it can not measure all the variables which will be explained further blogs in detail but include things like bunions, high insteps, and hammer toes.  A lot of those variables can be determined by a professional salesperson.

While most of today's shoes are designed and engineered to work with the Brannock device, each style is made on its own last.  That means that not all shoes will run true to the measuring device.  There are shoes that run narrow, there are shoes that run wide, there are shoes that run short, etc., etc.  That is why it is always important to seek out a professional.  You should always go to someone that has the Brannock Device, knows how to use it , knows to measure both feet, and knows the differences in the styles they carry.

Now, don't run out now and get your feet measured until you read next week's blog.  I will detail then how shoes should fit and again mention some of the variables that will make you sizes or width different.

Again, thank you for taking the time to read this.  I am always open to comments and questions.  Until next week -