Some of the best shoes for standing and walking on concrete all day are Skechers, ASICS, Rockport, New Balance but there are also many other shoes that suit your needs. In this guide, we will be looking at the best walking shoes for standing on concrete for men and women.
In case you have not realised it, your feet are the foundation of your body and their health is essential to your overall health. This highlights the importance of good footwear so that your feet are in as good a shape as possible. Feet are fairly complex structures of bones, muscle and joints as well as soft tissue which is fragile.
Your feet and ankles are crucial to your body’s stability. Any injuries or excessive wear and tear will affect your stability. That may be temporary but on occasions, damage is irreversible.
Human movement, simply walking, is a more complex subject than you might imagine. As you walk, your weight is constantly being transferred. That includes being largely on heels and toes at different times and on different feet at different times.
When you are walking on hard surfaces such as concrete, there is no give so your feet, ankles are the first to feel pressure. Ultimately your legs, hips and backs are affected as well.
This alone is a persuasive argument for buying the best shoes for every occasion. If you spend significant time in your daily life on your feet, you should buy something that provides maximum comfort and support.
Plenty of people spend their days on their feet. Some will be constantly on the move and in most cases, that means they spent plenty of time on their feet. Others may simply be standing for most of the day. In some ways that is equally tiring and puts pressure on their feet.
That is particularly the case when the surface they are standing or walking on is hard. Concrete comes to mind immediately. There is no ‘’give’’ from concrete or similar hard surfaces. Feet get no cushioning from hard surfaces.
Your arches are very important to your feet and your ability to walk around comfortably. Each of your feet has three arches, one each on the inside and outside of your foot and the third across the ball of that foot. Each must function properly to maintain the health of your feet and their ability to bear your weight.
Your genes define some things in your life. Some negative conditions in your feet are hereditary, things like flat footedness. However, hard surfaces will cause excess stress with your arches being subject to that stress. If you look closely at all forms of footwear, even flip flops have some form of support for the inner art but not for either the outer arch or the ball of your feet.
There are general requirements in footwear but also things that are particular to you. It makes your purchasing decision on footwear can be individualistic in some ways. However, proper arch support is a prerequisite to comfort and should be one of the first things you look for in a shoe. Take away any pain in your feet and you may find that elsewhere in your body, pain that you used to feel after spending significant time on your feet has gone.
The expression ‘’fallen arches’’ is widely used. Also known as ‘’flatfoot’’ it is easy to recognise because the gentle arch in the foot begins to drop or flatten. It leads to tiredness in the foot happening more quickly than normal. The foot can swell at the same time, making your shoes uncomfortable. That swelling leads to pain that spreads up into your legs, hips and back.
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The Shoe Industry
The shoe manufacturing industry reflects consumer demand. That demand is for comfort and support, just as much as it is for fashion. Considerable sums have been, and continue to be, spent on research and development. Results have included new synthetic materials that are both durable and lightweight. Such materials are ideal for making comfortable footwear to counter the potential effects of standing all day, or walking distances thereby putting pressure on feet and limbs.
The global footwear market is over US$350 billion and is to be more than half as much again by 2027. Recent growth reflects the fact that many people want a range of shoes in their wardrobe to suit every occasion. While shoes are very much a fashion item, they are also practical to provide comfort and support for feet during their daily lives. While some people put minimal pressure on their feet, those who perhaps spend their day in an office, others put pressure on their feet because of how they spend their time.
The main players in the shoe industry, particularly those concentrating on things other than fashion, market footwear that claims to provide all the comfort and support needed to reduce pressure on feet. Your feet age as you do, and they can change. It is often the case that from middle age onwards, your shoe size or width can change. That is a reason alone for manufacturers to produce different widths for the same size.
A closer look at some of the shoes in this sector of the market is a useful exercise to help you decide how best to look after your feet when you are faced with time standing or walking on hard surfaces such as concrete.
How to choose the best shoes for walking on concrete
Each of the brands mentioned below has made its mark in the shoe industry. Some start from the sports angle and others have been mainstream in the everyday show market. The latter has recognised that there are subtle differences between what feet require in different situations. There is still a place for high heels in some places. Those places do not include concrete surfaces if you are going to spend day after day standing or walking on such surfaces.
It follows that you are not going to find a pair of high heels in the following alternatives. Indeed, one thing that is common to all of them is a good heel because flat shoes are of little use on concrete floors. They provide no cushioning to counter the hardness of the floor.
You need to narrow your choice down based upon your own priorities, consider the following:
- Comfort is very important for anyone on their feet all day. Throwing off your shoes as you walk through the front door after a long day suggests that something is wrong. The longer that is the case, the more damage you may be causing to your feet. Before you buy, think about the amount of cushioning and support those shoes are offering. Are the insoles removable in order to ‘’refresh’’ them? Do they provide you with enough arch support? Are they durable and breathable?
- Stability is essential if you are to be able to spend long days standing and walking on hard, concrete surfaces. Part of that aspect is the traction that they will give you. Are the soles slip resistant on wet surfaces?
- Support is the other important aspect to consider. Is the heel and arch support adequate?
If a shoe gives you the right answer to these issues, buy it. Read on and make up your own mind. There is plenty of choice.
Best Shoes for Standing and Walking on Concrete All Day
Based on my research, tests, and overall customer reviews, here are my top 23 choices on the best shoes for walking on concrete.
1. Skechers Men’s Segment Walking Shoe For Concrete Surfaces
Skechers is one of the largest footwear companies in the USA. Based in California, it is almost 30 years old and concentrates on casual footwear which is a market that has grown enormously in the intervening years. It regularly uses celebrities to promote its range, confident that consumers will enjoy the comfort and quality of a Skechers shoe.
This Loafer has a leather upper, good padding and a rubber sole. The foam in the inner provides plenty of cushioning against the rigid qualities of hard surfaces such as concrete. Double stitching adds to the strength of the Loafer which is very competitively priced.
This loafer is designed to be a practical shoe to help its wearer to feel comfortable. However, if you are on their feet all day, why not wear Skechers which is also a fashion brand? It adds to its appeal.
Getting the balance between style and comfort is the challenge that shoe manufacturers face as they develop their products. Skechers meet that challenge head on and overcome it. The pull-up tab makes it an easy shoe to put on and take off. At the end of a long day, you will not need to take them off to let your feet breathe and rest because your feet will still be in good condition.
PROS
- Comfortable leather upper conducive to creating a comfortable fit
- Well-padded with good, gel-infused cushioning on hard surfaces such as concrete
- Competitively priced in its sector
- A fashion brand as well as being a practical shoe
- A durable shoe with double stitching
- Available in brown, dark brown and black
CONS
- The foam padding has a tendency to compress.
- Sizing can be an issue is a common review topic, suggesting buying half a size less than normal
2. Skechers Women’s Squad SR Food Service Shoe For Concrete Surfaces
Many women work in the hospitality sector and that involves their being on their feet for much of the day. In such sectors women still want to look their best so a fashion brand like Skechers that sells practical footwear is a popular choice for many.
Skechers started in 1992 and has established itself as an important international brand. The Squad SR Food Service Shoe is synthetic with good support provided for the arches which come under pressure on hard surfaces. Think lightweight, flexible and durable and you have this shoe.
The sole is slip resistant which is important in areas where spills and therefore slippery surfaces are common occurrences. Women in the hospitality sector may be everything from waitresses and barmaids to sales personnel and personal assistants. They generally have long hours on their feet whatever their jobs. It means that they require good shoes that are both practical as well as looking good.
Skechers’ success in the marketplace suggests that it has achieved that balance as far as women are concerned.
PROS
- Competitively priced
- A very practical shoe for women on their feet all day
- Good traction to avoid problems on slippery floor
- Lightweight yet durable
CONS
- The cushioning may compress
- Sizing can be a problem
3. Skechers Men’s Glides Calculous For Concrete Surfaces
Skechers is a Californian brand established in the early 1990s. Its range of leisure and sport-orientated shoes have taken a slice of the market to the extent Skechers is among the top brands in today’s market. This model is made in Vietnam.
These leather loafers from Skechers have a rubber sole with a prominent heel of 1.25 inches. This product came onto the market in 2015 and has remained one of Skechers popular shoes. It comes in a size range between 6.5 and 14 with an extra wide width as an alternative.
The sole will not mark the floor and provides good traction, even on slippery surfaces. That is essential if you spend any significant time on your feet on surfaces that are less than ideal. Towards the end of a busy day, you may tire and not be as alert as you were earlier.
The gel and memory foam work well, keeping feet both cool and dry. Your working day will be much easier if you are comfortable in your shoes and keeping your feet cool and dry is an important part of that.
PROS
- Leather can easily be polished so you can keep them looking good for longer.
- Good traction from the rubber sole.
- Prominent heel for maximum support
- An extra wide fitting is available
CONS
- Soft backs can make them a little difficult to pull on
4. Alegria Women’s Classic Clog For Concrete Surfaces
Alegria Shoes are a relative newcomer into the footwear market. This Californian brand is less than a decade old. Its founder’s aim was to produce a range of shoes that were both comfortable and fashionable. They are all lightweight including the Women’s Classic Clog, but they are also durable.
Attention to fashion equates to brightness and colour. There is a range of colours in this Classic Clog so you can have a pair, or more, based on your wardrobe.
The design of the sole achieves a unique feature whereby wearers will feel a ‘’rocking motion’’ as they walk. That motion helps to develop and tone calves to help reduce fatigue during a long day on hard, concrete surfaces. The built-in arch uses foam and latex.
With an adjustable buckle at the side and a slip-resistant sole, Alegria is offering all you might want in a shoe. Incidentally, you also have a choice of widths in this Classic Clog.
PROS
- Combines a balance between comfort and style
- Range of colours available to match your wardrobe
- Lightweight but durable
- Good traction
- Side buckle for good fit
CONS
- Questions on accuracy of size chart
- Be certain you like the bright colours and pattern before buying
5. Alegria Women’s Keli Professional For Concrete Surfaces
Alegria recognised the size of the footwear market and the opportunity that presented. It is a brand that was launched in 2012 aiming at both the women’s fashion market but also recognising that there was significant demand for comfort and support for feet. In common with most shoes in this specific sector, the range from Alegria is both lightweight and comfortable.
California where the brand originates is known for its brightness and quality of life. Alegria’s use of colour while prioritising comfort and support has allowed the brand to establish itself in under a decade. The Keli comes in a number of colours and patterns so you can buy a pair to suit your favourite dress. Indeed, you can cover several of your outfits if you buy two or three pairs.
This slip-on shoe is slim and stylish with plenty of padding and an insole which is replaceable. The heel is two inches providing plenty of support if you are spending time on concrete surfaces.
The Keli comes in both synthetic and leather, the latter being very easy to clean which is important if your working environment is not always clean.
PROS
- Colourful and stylish
- Slip-on and easy to put on and take off
- Supportive and comfortable
- Well-padded with a replaceable insole
CONS
- Possible issues with size accuracy
6. ASICS Gel-Contend 5 SL Men’s Concrete Walking Shoes
This Japanese sports brand began in the middle of the 20th Century, changing its name to Asics in 1977. Footwear is just one of its range with tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic its most important sponsorship celebrity.
The original company began by marketing basketball footwear and although there are other products in the Asics range, footwear represents two-thirds of its business. Japan is its strongest market but North America and Europe create significant sales. The penetration into the USA market came via an agency which developed into the Nike brand after commercial disputes.
These men’s walking shoes have been designed to ensure you will be comfortable while you are on the move. Those properties also apply to men who are just on their feet throughout the day. That can be in many different working environments.
These shoes are comfortable, flexible yet well-cushioned and lightweight. Breathable mesh and synthetic uppers are just two of its features. The tongue on this lace up model is also padded.
Asics offers a shoe that is moisture resistant, very supportive and comes in two widths. The foam midsole is durable and helps to minimise the impact of hard concrete flooring.
PROS
- Comfortable and supportive with excellent cushioning
- Lightweight yet durable
- Will keep you dry because of the materials used in manufacture and the inner mesh.
CONS
- Tendency to be a little too spongy
- Issue with accuracy of the sizes
7. Rockport Men’s Eberdon Loafer Walking & Standing Shoe On Concrete
Rockport was founded in Massachusetts, New York half a century ago after the collapse of Hubbard Shoes due to overseas competition. Its initial source of footwear was Brazil. As it grew the brand was sold to Reebok in the UK and was absorbed by Adidas who sold the brand to an affiliate of New Balance. Despite having filed for bankruptcy, the Rockport products remain on the market despite retail outlets closing.
Rockport’s initial shoe shows the logic behind the brand; the ‘’Comfort Shoe’’ which was aimed at the sports market but became an all-purpose shoe. ‘’The Walking Shoe’’ from Rockport promoted the idea of walking as a good form of exercise. That shoe was introduced in the 1980s and Rockport hand walking has been synonymous ever since.
The Eberdon Loafer for Men is stylish and as comfortable as shoes come with its level of cushioning. These are leather pull-ons which take seconds to put on and take off. No shoelaces to trip over here! The rubber sole provides good traction whatever the surface. Many working environments, especially factories and outdoor jobs, have wet surfaces. No problem with these loafers. The mesh lining is very breathable, so you have no worries about your feet getting wet.
They come in two colours, brown or black and look impressive even if you are in a working environment but need to look good as well.
PROS
- Breathable leather
- Colour options in brown or black
- Good traction provided on all surfaces
- Comfortable cushioning
CONS
- Need a while to break in so beware initial blisters
8. Timberland PRO Men’s Powertrain Walking & Standing Shoe On Concrete
Timberland manufactures outdoor wear, footwear, and subsidiary products. It originates from New Hampshire in the USA and currently employs over 5,000 people worldwide. Timberland opened in Boston in 1928.
The name ‘’Timberland’’ has always been associated with strength and durability. That certainly applies to the Powertrain. It has a synthetic upper with mesh lining that promotes breathability and helps to prevent odours developing. The midsole is designed to counter any shocks.
This lightweight footwear is ideal for people who spend long hours each day on their feet. Concrete floors provide the biggest challenge, but common opinion suggests that Timberland’s PRO Men’s Powertrain beats the challenge.
Its rocker sole minimises impact and is slip resistant. Many hard working surfaces are either dirt or wet or both. The Powertrain takes such surfaces in its stride.
PROS
- Strong, durable yet lightweight
- Provide good traction on all surfaces
- Comfortable insole
CONS
- The insoles are not designed to be removed
- Suggestions that you should buy half a size bigger than normal
9. Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoe
This brand which began in 1996 has its headquarters in Baltimore with additional offices worldwide. It was the brainchild of Kevin Plank who sought to develop a sports jersey that would stay much drier than the ones currently on the market. The word spread quickly after he succeeded. The brand’s shoe range followed much later but uses a similar principle of using material that will remain dry and therefore comfortable.
The shoe range developed after a deal with NBA star Stephen Curry switched from Nike to Under Armour.
Charged Asset 8 Running Shoe is made from leather and textiles and has a synthetic sole. The mesh in the upper promotes breathability so your feet will stay dry. The leather helps in keeping your foot stable with the cushioning within the shoe ensuring you are comfortable.
The cushioning insole will mould to your feet to help you feel comfortable despite long periods walking or standing on hard surfaces. The sole gives good traction even on wet or dirty hard surfaces.
PROS
- Breathable uppers with mesh lining
- Leather promotes stability and comfort
- Cushioned insole
- Excellent traction
CONS
- Size issues – suggestions you need to buy a larger size than normal
- Questions about the hardness of the back of the shoe
10. Columbia Men’s Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot
Footwear is just one of the products marketed by Columbia which was founded in Washington County, Oregon just before the outbreak of World War II. Originally these German immigrants bought a hat company having fled Nazi Germany. Over the years, Columbia’s focus was very much on the outdoors, so footwear was an obvious sector to consider. It went into footwear by the acquisition of the Sorel brand in 2006. It employs approaching 9,000 people.
The Newton Ridge Hiking Boot certainly helps those who want to enjoy time out in the lovely natural environment of Oregon. It is also just as good for those in other parts of the world who enjoy hiking. Hikers need comfortable footwear but so do the people who spend time on their feet every day, sometimes for long hours.
These leather suede boots with a mesh lining for breathability and rubber sole have a strong supportive heel. The Boot is both lightweight and durable. It is waterproof and the midsole is designed to provide maximum comfort to its wearer. At the same time, the outer sole provides good traction on all surfaces. That goes from the ice and snow on a difficult winter trail to wet and dirty concrete surfaces in a working environment.
PROS
- Stylist yet very practical
- Excellent traction on all surfaces
- Mesh lining for breathability
- Lightweight and durable
CONS
- Questions over size accuracy
11. Fila Men’s Memory Workshift Slip Resistant Concrete Work Shoe
Even though Fila is now Korean owned, it began in Piedmont, Italy just before the start of the First World War. For a short period this century it was American owned. Its early products were largely aimed at the Alpine market, but expansions and acquisitions now give it a much broader base. Bjorn Borg, the famous Swedish tennis player gave the brand real impetus during the 70s when he dominated Wimbledon. Tennis remains a priority for Fila that has held an impressive list of stars promoting the brand over the years including Boris Becker and Kim Clijsters.
Today, it holds a majority shareholding in Acushnet, one of whose brands is the dominant golf name, Titleist, which is the leading manufacturer of golf balls worldwide.
This leather work shoe with rubber sole balances comfort for the needs of wearers who need protection from their environment. Where that is an industrial or hospitality environment, its challenge to provide its wearer with confidence.
The foam and midsole supplies comfort while perforations make the shoe breathable and keep your feet dry. It has a lace-up front which helps you to get a good and secure fit.
PROS
- Anti-slip sole to counter wet, dirty, or uneven surfaces
- Lace-up front to achieve good fit
- Midsole foam for a comfortable fit
- Breathable to help keep your feet dry.
CONS
- Difficult to clean
- Sole design does not stop it gathering dirt and debris from difficult surfaces
12. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Concrete Walking And Standing Shoes
Many large corporations begin in a specific sector then spread their activities into areas where they see a specific link. Do you see the link between heavy industrial machinery and shoes? Well, Caterpillar began in 1925 with two companies merging to create a tractor company and it is an important stock in the Dow Jones Industrial Average. Caterpillar is the world’s largest construction equipment manufacturer. It knows a bit about working environments, hard surfaces, traction, and rubber.
This may be more than one step removed but working environments require workers who must be suitably dressed to do their jobs and that includes having footwear that is durable, with traction, support, and comfort. Caterpillar’s range of working boots offer those things and more.
The upper is 100% leather with a synthetic sole that is moulded as Caterpillar would mould a tyre. There is a substantial heel which provides plenty of support. Support also comes from the padded ankle.
These working boots have a steel toe that is a great feature for those working in potentially hazardous environments. The sole has good traction even on wet or oily surfaces. You may become complacent about working in an environment that has a poor, or even potentially dangerous surface. The Caterpillar Boot can be one of your guard against complacency.
This is stylish footwear that looks almost too good for a dirty working environment. Should you need it, extra standard insoles will add additional comfort if you are spending long periods of time on your feet.
PROS
- Synthetic sole that gives good traction even on oily surfaces
- Leather upper for style and comfort fit
- Good heel to provide stability
CONS
- Issues reported on the width of these boots
13. RYKA Women’s Dash 3 Walking Shoe
The RYKA brand launched in 1987 with the aim of providing consumers with a good athletically designed shoe for women. Its founder, Sheri Poe. Part of her motivation came as a result of her crusade to improve every aspect of female life including health. Ten years on, RYKA merged with Global Sports and two steps on, Caleres owns the brand, one of many in its portfolio. That company’s history in footwear is impressive so it certainly has the expertise to offer a walking shoe to meet consumer demand.
RYKA offers a well-priced textile shoe with a synthetic sole. The breathable mesh helps to keep your feet dry while the moulded insole provides the comfort you are seeking if you are standing or walking on concrete all day.
This is a lightweight shoe with good traction even on difficult surfaces. Both durable and flexible, they are designed with a high instep so ideal for those with a high arch. You can machine wash them without seeing any discernible deterioration.
PROS
- Comes in choice of colours
- Machine washable
- insole moulds to your feet
- Good traction for any surface
- Lightweight
CONS
- Issues with width, especially at the toe
14. Reebok Men’s Rb4041 Sublite Cushion Safety Toe Athletic Work Industrial & Construction Shoe
Reebok is an Anglo-American company, now a subsidiary of Adidas as it has been since 2005. It is almost 40 years since Reebok designed its first athletic shoe. In subsequent years, it has created a huge impact in several sports, notably basketball, tennis and athletics. Adidas acquired Reebok without any plans to drop the well-established brand name.
These rubber-soled shoes have a sleek athletic look. The insole, which is replaceable, will adapt to the contours of your foot. You get plenty of support from the cushioning in this lightweight shoe, notably in the heel where it is extra important. The alloy toe is extra wide so you will not get any pinching at the front of the shoe.
The mesh helps to make this Reebok model breathable and hence your feet will remain dry all day. A further property is that the Reebok is slip resistant even on wet surfaces.
PROS
- Breathable shoe to keep your feet dry
- Removable insole that moulds to the contours of your foot
- Wide toe
- Good heel support
CONS
- Tendency to be stiff and needing breaking in
- Insole wears out quickly
15. RockRooster Newland Outdoor Hiking Boot
The origins of RockRooster go back to the early 30s and the Great Depression. The Brooks brothers from Nelsonville, Ohio, USA worked in the footwear business, but both lost their jobs. They acquired a rent-free property to make and sell shoes, initially making 300 pairs a day. That quickly rose to 2,000 pairs per day and expanded further with demand for military boots for World War II and the Korean War.
Into the 70s, times were hard, but this was the time that the ‘’Rocky’’ boot emerged with orders coming from the military but also police and other industrial workers enjoying this comfortable and practical product.
The range of what is now Rocky Brands includes this Outdoor Hiking Boot which is both waterproof and lightweight. Its construction aims to combat fatigue while providing support. The rubber sole is non-slip while offering the wearer cushioning against hard surfaces both outdoor and indoor.
You have a 4-inch heel on this suede leather waterproof boot. The inner foam helps to reduce vibration while helping to disperse weight evenly.
The inner lining is both waterproof and windproof yet at the same time this is a shoe that breathes. It is durable and provides all the protection your feet need in any environment despite being lightweight.
RockRooster has a money back guarantee that is not common in this footwear sector.
PROS
- Waterproof and windproof
- Lightweight but durable and sturdy
- Strong support from the heel
- Comfortable insole that helps weight distribution
- Money back guarantee
CONS
- A little tight at the toe
- Be certain on size issues
16. Merrell Women’s Encore Ice 4 Sneaker
Merrell’s first shoe was a hiking boot made in Italy with an eye on the Alpine Market but its subsequent development really began when Wolverine World Wide bought the brand in 1997, with the headquarters of that brand in Michigan, USA. One of Wolverine’s most famous shoes is the Hush Puppy whose reputation for comfort is a match for anything on the market.
The Encore Ice 4 Sneaker for Women takes advantage of the pig suede used in Hush Puppies. It is well lined and breathable with an inner sole that is both comfortable and stable. The good traction provided by the rubber sole makes this sneaker ideal for women working regularly on concrete and other hard surfaces.
These comfortable shoes are easy to slip on and off. They have plenty of arch support and come in a wide range of colours.
PROS
- Comfortable soft suede leather
- Rubber sole providing good traction
- Easy to put on and take off
- Range of colours
CONS
- Issues with size
- Can loosen with wear
17. Merrell Men’s Encore Gust
Merrell entered the footwear market forty years ago by introducing hiking boots which were manufactured in Italy. In 1997, Wolverine World Wide bought the Company which makes its base in Michigan, USA. Today, its range goes far beyond hiking boots to include athletic shoes. Wolverine’s expertise in the footwear market made the acquisition logical; Wolverine includes in its brands Hush Puppies.
Hush Puppies use breathable suede which Merrell adopted to try to penetrate the athletic/running market more effectively. It succeeded with Merrell now selling worldwide.
The Encore Gust has a leather upper with a mesh lining which reduces odour and has certainly proved to be durable. Odour reduction is a result of the solution applied to the lining to absorb smells.
The insole is replaceable, and the overall impact of the padding and cushioning makes it a very comfortable shoe. You can wear it all day even if you are permanently on your feet without any noticeable fatigue.
Merrell also offers great traction in the Encore Gust whilst cushioning your feet from hard surfaces. The slip-on style makes this shoe easy to put on and take off. The strong heel provides excellent support and will actually make you look taller than you do in other footwear.
PROS
- Very breathable
- Good traction, even on slippery surfaces
- Removable insoles
- Combats odour extremely well
CONS
- Some question on its traction has been mentioned in reviews
18. Clarks Women’s Everlay Elma Oxford
The UK Brand, Clarks, dates back two centuries so there is little the company does not know about footwear. Its headquarters are still in Street, Somerset, where it all began. The Brand is available worldwide and has achieved significant penetration into such large markets as India and China.
Last year, this family business had to enter a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) due to financial difficulties. As a result, Lion Rock Capital, which is an equity company based in Hong Kong, invested £100 m and the majority shareholding is now held by a Chinese company, Viva China Holdings. Clarks are now made in Brazil, Vietnam, India and of course China.
Over the years, Clarks’ fame increased because of iconic products like its Desert Boots. They were fashion symbols for the Beatniks, the Mods and rioting Parisian students, all over half a century ago. The Shoe Museum in Street has 1,500 exhibits telling the story of the history of shoes since Roman times. The Everlay Elma Oxford is far too modern to be in there yet.
Clarks has a reputation for comfort and that is especially important for people on their feet all day, especially on concrete surfaces. This shoe is low-wedge, very comfortable and stylish. It is lined with soft fabric and has a very soft insole. The upper itself is leather, and therefore very durable.
The sole provides good traction and the 1.5 inch heel helps the wearer to avoid any problems in leg or back.
PROS
- Durable leather upper
- Good shock absorption
- Comfortable wedge heel
- Soft insole
CONS
- The insole is not designed to be taken out
19. Clarks Women’s Sharon Dolly Concrete Standing Shoes
Few footwear brands can match the longevity of Clarks which still has its headquarters in Street, Somerset, UK, where it all began nearly two centuries ago. That said, Clarks is now under Chinese ownership with production in China, India, and Brazil. It is truly a worldwide brand that has a reputation for producing comfortable footwear.
This loafer with a smooth wedge-shaped heel goes away from Clarks traditional look but retains its style. It is a fabric synthetic combination with a synthetic sole. The inner is comfortable and supportive, and the padded lining adds to that support. It is very lightweight and easy to take off and put on.
PRO
- Soft leather offer style
- Lightweight
- Comfortable with excellent cushioning
CON
- More support in the heel than toe
- Questions of sizing and width
20. Dansko Women’s Professional Clog
This Pennsylvanian brand is a husband and wife team. They began their business in 1990 shortly after a holiday in Denmark where they saw clogs which they thought would be suitable for their farm where they trained horses. In the end, having brought clogs back from a few visits, they decided to market them themselves. By the end of the decade, the Dansko brand was recognised as one of the USA’s fastest growing private companies.
Move forward another decade and the majority of Dansko footwear is manufactured in China with the remainder in Italy. By that time, the brand had developed a market beyond the borders of the USA.
This Dansko is leather with a polyurethane sole. It has a prominent heel, and the padded instep ensures the wearer is comfortable for walking or standing on hard surfaces. There is plenty of room in the tow and you can expect good stability because of the wide heel.
This shoe is designed to absorb the possible effects of walking or standing on hard surfaces such as concrete. The foam is breathable so your feet will never feel too hot while they will always stay dry.
PRO
- Breathable foam ensures your feet do not get hot
- Padded instep for added comfort
- Wide heel ensures stability
CON
- Do not ‘’give’’ with time so be certain you order the right size initially
21. Dansko Women’s Paisley Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker
Peter Kjellerup and his wife Mandy Cabot ran a farm in Pennsylvania where they trained horses when a visit to Denmark in the late 1980s changed their lives. They saw a clog which they thought was ideal for work around the farm and brought them back. Within a couple of years, they decided to start a footwear company marketing clogs. Without any obvious local skills available for manufacturing, it was clear that they would have to import the clogs.
This they did, ordering their products mostly but not exclusively from China. Their idea worked from the outset and a natural progression from marketing clogs into a wider range of footwear was logical.
This very colourful sneaker certainly catches the eye. It is one of a range that shows Dansko’s expansion over the years. The fibre used means that your feet will stay dry while any odour is expelled immediately. The uppers of leather are waterproof, and the sloe offers good shock absorption.
Dansko’s Paisley Sneaker is suitable for all weathers and able to handle all surfaces, inside and out.
PRO
- Colourful and stylish
- Waterproof uppers
- Odour free
- Shock absorbent
CON
- Not the cheapest for what they are.
22. New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 Industrial Shoe
New Balance is a Boston-based company specialising in footwear, clothing, and equipment in the sporting sector. It is over 100 years old but today’s company employing around 5,500 people worldwide is far removed from its early days. It is towards the top end when it comes to pricing but justifies that by pointing to the scientific research that goes into every product it sells. When it comes to footwear, New Balance points to its gel inserts, the range of widths it offers and its heel counters.
The New Balance Men’s Slip Resistant 626 V2 is designed especially for people wanting support, protection, and comfort from their footwear. This Industrial Shoe is 100% leather upper but rubber soled. Leather is easy to keep clean, looking good. This model comes in three colours, black, brown, and neutral.
The end result is a durable shoe that can handle a working or leisure environment where it is fully tested. It passes that test.
You will already have gathered that cushioning is a very important factor in spending significant time on hard surfaces. New Balance has pads that will help your heels absorb the pressure such as concrete flooring provides. This shoe will mould to your foot as you wear them. The days of your coming home and the first thing you want to do is take your shoes off have gone.
Shoes must give you grip as well so you must get some feel from the surface you are standing or walking on. New Balance’s answer to that is to provide a slip resistant sole that will handle hard or difficult surfaces. Hard surfaces are just part of the problem. It is important to have traction on wet and slippery surfaces as well.
There may be water, oil or other liquids on the floor making it a little difficult to guarantee your footing. New Balance’s 626 V2 Industrial Shoe counters that problem comfortably and has been tested against nationally recognised standards.
The shoe also offers internal support to assist with its being comfortable all day whatever you are doing. Remember the subject of your arches and how important they are to your feet, comfort and ultimate health.
PROS
- Available in multiple widths
- Good heel cushioning
- Slip resistant on wet surfaces
- Leather upper for added comfort
- Excellent inner support for your arches
CONS
- At the high end in terms of price
23. New Balance 626V2 Concrete Work Shoes for Women
New Balance is a USA company with a worldwide reputation. It now specialises in the sports sector after originally opening over a century ago. With sport in mind, its footwear is sleek. As a result of research, New Balance has identified the aspects that give the wearer the best possible experience. Customers have to pay for that expertise, but it is a price worth paying when the result is comfort throughout the day.
New Balance offers gel inserts, heels with optimum cushioning and a comprehensive range of widths.
These 626 V2 Work Shoes for Women prioritise giving support, comfort and protection for the wearer. The Shoe has a 100% leather upper which helps to guarantee comfort and a good fit. Leather is easy to keep clean so you can expect both comfort and style when buying this shoe.
The sole is rubber and moulded in such a way that it provides good traction. It is important not to sacrifice grip for comfort. The soles of the 626 V2 are slip resistant which is important especially on surfaces that may have patches of oil, water, other liquids or debris. New Balance has thoroughly tested every feature of its footwear range to recognised standards so it can confidently give its consumers promises of quality.
New Balance’s internal padding counters the effects of standing or walking on hard surfaces all day. This shoe will mould to your feet while the insole is removable if necessary. Your heels will absorb the pressure such surfaces put on your feet day after day You will get internal support as a result of both its design features, and the use of leather for the upper.
The pull-up loop makes it an easy shoe to put on and once one they are very breathable.
PROS
- Comes in several different widths
- Cushioning in the heel
- Wet surfaces such as oil and water no problem
- 100% Leather upper facilitates comfort and good fit
- Removable inner soles
CONS
- More expensive than some of its competition
- Tend to need to break them in longer than most shoes
- Advisable to buy a size more than normal
Why Do You Need Good Shoes for Concrete Surfaces?
Concrete surfaces are primarily hard on your feet but ultimately on your body as well. Even though you may simply be standing and not expending any energy, the longer you stand, the more tired you may feel. Rather than fatigue, it is actually strain. The strain is initially on your feet, but it moves up through your legs until it affects your back and hence the whole of your body.
There are occasions in life when standing on a hard surface for an extended period may be necessary. It may be part of the job, but it could also be standing on a terrace at a sports event or concert. It may be queuing for any number of reasons.
If your job entails standing on hard concrete surfaces day after day, it is essential that you do all you can to minimise the impact of those concrete surfaces. Just because you do it regularly, it does not necessarily mean you get used to it and concrete surfaces make no impact on you. It is in fact likely to be the reverse in some ways. Your feet and overall health can gradually suffer.
Good shoes are a priority if you spend any amount of time on hard surfaces such as, but not exclusively, concrete. If your shoes are comfortable and provide you with support, your feet and lower limbs can benefit enormously. Once you achieve that, you should be able to forget about developing any back problems because of standing on hard surfaces.
It does not get any better if you are walking around all day on concrete surfaces. That puts strain on your heels and your joints, ankles and knees primarily but also on your hips and back.
There is footwear especially manufactured to provide comfort and support for people who spend time on hard surfaces. By all means take periods of rest as well by taking your weight off your feet. Stretch your feet, twiddle your toes periodically as well.
You need something with a good heel and not completely flat footwear. You need to help your feet to absorb the pressure that concrete surfaces put on your feet. That means good support for your arches and plenty of cushioning. It goes without saying that your shoes need to be a good fit.
Durability is a major requirement of suitable shoes. Hard surfaces will try to cause damage to your footwear simply because of their properties. The soles need to be resistant to abrasion as far as possible but also provide good traction to interact effectively with the concrete. At the same time, the upper part of your shoes needs to be made of material that helps your feet breathe and therefore keep cool and dry.
Health Effects of Walking on Concrete All Day
The whole point about concrete is that it is hard and durable. Its use for flooring is widespread even if in homes and offices, you will often find carpeting that provides a cushioning effect. Concrete itself provides no cushioning and it is therefore hard on your feet.
Several working environments involve concrete flooring. Workers who spend all day on their feet, whether walking or mostly standing still often find that they are tired by the end of the day, even if they have not used much energy at work. That is largely because of the effects of hard flooring on their feet.
With no flexibility under foot, it will come as no surprise that your feet can get sore over the day. That leads to sore shins and legs, pressure on knees and potential back problems. Over the years, that can result in chronic problems in knees and back. That is something that has a lasting effect on a person’s health and regularly leads to time off work.
You might think that this is a depressing picture and indeed it is. It highlights the need for quality footwear that is designed specifically to provide both support and cushioning for your feet. You should take time in selecting your shoes and ensure that they are a good fit. Insoles are also worth considering to provide an extra level of comfort and cushioning.
Today’s shoes are so much better than those from years ago. You can expect to find shoes that will be both stable as well as lightweight. The result is that they will also help with reducing tiredness in your feet.
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Conclusion
Top quality footwear manufacturers spend significant sums of money on research and development. The rewards for establishing themselves in the huge footwear market are substantial. Different shoes suit different occasions, so most people have a few pairs in their wardrobe.
The priority for those who spend a significant part of the day on their feet is comfort and support rather than appearance. Hard concrete floors pose significant problems for people whose regular week involves standing or walking on hard surfaces. Those surfaces initially put pressure on your feet and heels but as the day drags on, that pressure will move up into your legs and even your back.
The best shoes for those situations are ones that provide you with support while cushioning your feet from the solid surface below. The strain that you feel from solid concrete flooring hits your feet and heels but much more. Your lower legs are the next to feel the strain, but it does not stop there. By the end of the day, you will feel tired mostly because of the strain that floors have put on your feet, legs, hips and back. You will feel a level of pain and stiffness that will get worse over time.
It is not just pain and stiffness; you will cause damage to your joints over time as well. Indeed, you may ultimately have chronic conditions that will certainly reduce the quality of your life.
You should forget buying anything that has not got a stable heel. Completely flat shoes are actually little better than high heels, however. Stable heels will spread the load in your feet while the shoes themselves should give you cushioning and support, especially for your arches. An additional inner sole is often a good idea as well.
Your shoes need to be durable but that does not mean they cannot be both breathable and lightweight. Modern synthetic materials provide all those things, so you have plenty of choice from the top manufacturers.
Plenty of time and money has been invested by most shoe manufacturers looking to satisfy consumer demand for comfortable footwear. While shoes are very much a fashion item, there are some styles that are completely unsuitable for particular occasions and environments.
If you spend a significant amount of time on your feet each day, you will be putting pressure on your feet which provide you with stability. Research and development have identified how best to address that problem. There are still differences from shoe to shoe, but all understand the need for comfort and support. Hard surfaces are hard on your feet because they do not ‘’give’’ in any way. It is down to the design and components in the shoe to alleviate the problem as far as possible.
Consumers often have brand loyalty once they are satisfied with a pair of shoes that they like. That means comfort and support as well as appearance. Every shoe that has sold well and gets repeat sales does so because of satisfied customers. It is time and money well spent by a company that can get a slice of the huge footwear market.
Remember that your feet need help if your day involves being on your feet for hours in the day. That can be standing, walking or both. Good supportive footwear is your ally and the ones mentioned above each offer something to help your feet.