When Pandere offered to send me samples of their expandable shoes, I was thrilled because, as a woman over 50, my feet have become more uncomfortable with age. Aching arches, sore heels, and occasional swelling are all part of growing older. I want comfortable shoes that fit and adjust to whatever my feet decide to torture me within any given day.
But, as a woman who doesn’t want to look like a clodhopper in “granny” shoes, it’s always exciting when you can find expandable shoes that don’t look ugly and are stylish as well.
The Barista Shoe
I ordered two styles to try on. The Barista Shoe caught my eye immediately. This style is gorgeously crafted with soft durable suede leather and stretchy neoprene. I can slip them on without untying them and they provide excellent arch support.
The memory foam in the sole of the Barista felt immediately comfortable as soon as I slipped them on. They’re supportive enough to wear without orthotics and the rubber bottoms are slip-proof which is important for anyone over 50 who wants to avoid a fall at all costs.
Pandere shoes are made in Portugal with European styling and I think they’re classy. For expandable shoes, they aren’t clunky at all and you can wear them and look chic with just about any activewear outfit.
The Barista Shoe comes in four colors; Slate Grey, Classic Black, Cool Blue, and Burgundy. I chose Burgundy because I almost always go with black and wanted something that would stand out for a change. My Barista’s fit the bill. They are truly gorgeous and so well made. I would be proud to wear them anywhere.
The Neo Shoe
My second selection was the Neo Shoe. It has ankle support and a Velcro strap but still manages not to crunch my arches like most other high cut shoes. This style only comes in black but doesn’t look dorky like many strapped shoes tend to do.
The Neo, like the Barista, is made with stretch neoprene and has memory foam soles with anti-slip rubber bottoms. It’s an “easy to slip on” shoe that’s perfect to wear at the airport when you’re passing through security.. You can easily take them on and off without missing a step.
No need to break them in
I typically wear shoes for at least a week before they’re broken in enough to go on a long walk without getting blisters. You don’t have to do that with Pandere shoes. They’re so expandable and comfortable right out the gate that you won’t have to worry about aching feet or blisters.
My only concerns about Pandere Shoes
The company doesn’t offer half sizes at this time. I wear 8.5 and they sent me size 9. I was a little worried they’d be too large, but they seem to fit fine. The fact that they are expandable shoes is probably a factor. It’s recommended that you purchase one size larger if you wear a half-size.
Because they are expandable, be aware that the support on the sides feels a little loose but the soles are sturdy and resist skidding.
Why you should give them a try
Currently, Pandere offers five styles for women and two for men (one of which is male/female). They are only available online for now and at one retail store in New York.
If you have frequently swollen ankles, as many older people do, these shoes are perfect for you. They will adjust to any foot issue whether it’s swelling, corns, or bone-spurs, and still, look chic. I love my Pandere Shoes and believe they’re worth every penny. Visit their website here.
Pandere sent me two pairs of shoes to try on. However, my opinion is my own.
What do you look for in comfortable shoes? Please leave a comment below.
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