Tag Archives: comfort tech

Top 10 Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit

We’ve all made the regrettable decision to purchase shoes that pinch, rub, leave blisters, or are just too darn tight. Not only are these beautiful, ill-fitting monstrosities uncomfortable, they can really do a number on your feet as well.

How can you avoid them though? Follow our helpful tips below as a guide to find the perfect fit for your feet.

  • Measure your feet or try on shoes toward the end of the day when your feet are their largest.

We know gravity and physics aren’t easy concepts for everyone, so we’ll just cut to the chase. Your feet actually get bigger as the days goes on – as you walk and stand through the day, your feet expand under your weight.

 

  • When trying on shoes, make sure there is up to ½” of space left between the end of your big toe (or longest toe) and the end of the shoe.

Remember that tip about trying on your shoes at the end of the day? This is why… well, this is part of the reason why. The other half of the reason is due to the fact that when we walk, our toes create a slight back-and-forth motion. In order to protect your toes while they are in motion and make sure that you have enough room, you are going to want that half-inch space between your longest toe and the shoe, just trust us on this one.

 

  • Ensure that the toe box of the shoe is wide and roomy enough for your toes.

If your toes feel like they are being squeezed by a boa constrictor, then there’s a good chance that your shoes are too tight. On the plus side though, you’re probably not about to become the main course for a reptile today. Make sure that you have plenty of “wiggle room”, and that your feet are able to spread out comfortably. Don’t get shoes that cause you to have your toes overlap. You never know, they might get stuck like that!

 

  • Always shop for shoes depending on how well they fit your feet, not based on the shoe size.

Alright, ladies and gents. It’s time to get real about this issue. We have to stop the stigma that certain shoe sizes mean certain things. Smaller shoe sizes won’t make you any more “dainty”, and larger shoe sizes are not the best way to assert “dominance”. Be yourself, and get a pair of shoes that actually fit you properly. And for those of you out there that like to shop without trying on your clothing and attire, be warned: not all brands are created identically. What one brand deems to be a Women’s 8.5, could be another brand’s size 9.

 

  • Make sure there is enough room for the ball of your foot – it should fit comfortably at the widest part of your shoe.

 

The proper fit happens when the widest point of your foot (the ball) is located exactly in the widest part of the shoe. When that happens, the arch of your foot fits precisely with the arch of the shoe, giving you maximum support. In the SR Max® world, we like to refer to this area as the slip-resistant sweet spot.

 

  • Your heel should not slip up and down inside the shoe as you walk, they should be stable with minimal slippage as you move.

If your heel slips when you walk, this is either a sign of a shoe that is too large or a shoe that is simply not designed to fit the specific needs of your foot.

 

  • Don’t buy shoes that are too small, hoping that they’ll stretch out.

Let’s use some common sense with this one, guys. You can’t shove a larger object into a smaller one and expect it to fit. Now we get it, there are articles out there that tell you that you can make your shoes larger by sticking them in the freezer with water.  But we all know there’s only so much stretching that can occur here. Stick to the basics and just spare yourself the “cold feet” and get a pair of shoes that don’t require much effort to wear!

 

  • Spend time walking in the shoes to make sure the fit is correct and comfortable.

It’s true, some things in life require a test drive before purchase. Shoes should definitely be one of those items. While in the store (or even at home, if you ordered online) take some time to walk around on a carpeted, clean surface to get a feel for how the shoes will fit. Trust us, this will help you if you ever need to return them. 

 

  • Choose a pair of shoes that accommodate your arch type (ex. for flat feet, find a pair of shoes with extra arch support).

Some of us have high arches, some of us have falling arches, and some of us have flat feet. Make sure that you are choosing a pair that fit your arch type. Several brands will even call out this specific feature in order to help you make a more informed decision, while other brands are known to provide a certain level of arch support. When all else fails, don’t be afraid to try on different styles, brands, and sizes to figure out what suits you best.

 

  • Make sure the shoes you get will keep your feet comfortable if you have to stand or walk for long periods of time.

When your job has you on your feet all day, you will need to make sure that your slip resistant work shoes are up for the task. You need shoes that will provide you with enough support and cushioning in all the right places (especially your arches) to prevent you from having general foot pain and even blisters.

 

Easy, right? If you follow the simple tips above, you’ll be sure to find a shoe with the kind of fit you’ve always wanted.
Want to learn more about the comfort technologies that we offer? Check us out at srmax.com today!

Why You Should Take the Time to Get a Shoe Fitting

If you’re over the age of five, you probably know your own shoe size. You may not think that you need help getting your own shoes properly fitted by a professional because it’s common sense, right?

One would think.

But, there’s actually more to sizing than meets the eye. When you’re on your feet for eight hours a day, your shoes need to fit perfectly. Or else…the improperly fitted shoe demons will haunt you until you find yourself cursing the creator of the first ever pair of shoes (there’s a history lesson here that this writer knows nothing about). Let’s meet some demons that you’ll need to avoid:

The Piercing Pincher

Picture this: You arrive at work for your first day with your new pair of slip-resistant shoes. You’re feeling confident, safe, and looking great with all of the stylish swagger that your shoes provide.

Flash forward five hours: the toe of your shoe is so tight around your big toe that you’ve lost all feeling in it. Does your big toe even still exist down there? These are the questions you’re asking yourself while praying that the minute hand on the clock ticks faster to your next break.

This horrible scenario could have all been avoided if you had been fitted by a professional. They would know exactly where your big toe should be within the shoe while standing, and they’d feel it and double check with you before you ever leave the store or shoemobile. Next time, do this and don’t end up questioning whether your big toe is still there during your first day in your new shoes.

The Stinging Slipper

“But they felt ok when I tried them on in the store!” Those are the famous last words of someone who tried on shoes and didn’t bother to test them out by walking around the store on a carpeted surface before buying them.

Imagine: You’re walking into work with your new pair of shoes on and notice that they’re a bit big and slip when you walk. Oh well; you’re late for work and need to get inside to start your shift.

Flash forward three hours: the dinner rush is in full swing and your new shoe demons have created two or three blisters across your feet the size of Jupiter’s Great Red Spot! If one more customer asks you to walk the entirety of the restaurant for an extra napkin, you’re going to place the shoes in the parking lot and run them over and over until they become a part of the pavement.

Now, if you had gotten your shoes properly fitted by one of our experts, you would know exactly how long and wide the shoe should be to fit your feet. Our expert would explain to you that the ball of your foot should rest on the widest part of your shoe and would also have you walk around the store in the shoes to ensure that they don’t slip. Next time, do this and don’t end up making your new shoes a part of the pavement outside.

Any questions? Feel free to visit our sizing and fitting page here to read about specific shoe sizes and width letters.

 

Our Top 3 Greatest Shoes for Waiters

Whether you’re working part time to earn some extra cash or you’re a seasoned veteran to the serving game, you know that being a server can very rough on your body.

 

From carrying food to rushing in and out of a hot and busy kitchen, after your shift you can’t wait to kick off your shoes and prop your feet up. Because of this, having the right waiter shoes is even more important.

As a server, you want to keep a few things in mind when investing in a new pair of work shoes:

  • Cushion: Working a long shift is not only exhausting, but with improper shoes, it can also be painful. You want to make sure that the shoes you are wearing have the proper cushion in order to support and keep your feet comfortable through your whole entire shift.
  • Style: Now, this will depend on your restaurant’s environment. From upscale dining to a more causal and laid back setting, there are safe and comfortable shoes perfect for either atmosphere. You chose the one best for your work environment.
  • Arch Support: Arch support is crucial! Having a good shoe that supports the health of your foot will ultimately be more beneficial for you and your body.
  • Quality: Price may be your first concern, but buying better quality shoes actually saves money in the long run. Shoes that are constructed using the best materials and proper construction should serve you for well over 6 months, which means you don’t have to buy shoes as often.

 

Now that we’ve gone over the important things to consider when purchasing a work shoe, we decided to provide you all with a few examples! Here are some of our more popular slip resistant restaurant shoes.

Casual

To the left is our SR Max® Dover Slip Resistant athletic shoe and for the ladies we have the stylish Malibu women’s casual work shoe. This style comes in men and women’s sizes. This shoe is perfect for a more casual atmosphere.

Dover_SRM6100_SRM610-Pair 2MalibuSRM170-Profile

Dress Casual

The shoe on the left is our men’s SR Max® Providence Slip Resistant Dress Oxford. The shoe to the right is women’s SR Max® Bristol dress wedge. Both of these styles are appropriate for a setting that may be more of a business casual atmosphere.

Providence_SRM1800_SRM180-Pair2Bristol_SRM515-inside

 

 

Dress

To the left we have our men’s SR Max® Augusta dress shoe and to the right we have our women’s SR Max® Isabella shoe. These styles are perfect for more of a business professional atmosphere.

Augusta_SRM3020_Pair2Victoria_SRM525-profile

 

These are just a few of the wonderful style s that SR Max® offers for the typical types of restaurant environment. If the kind of shoe you need for your work environment was not listed, please visit our website and find your perfect shoe today!

Nurse Shoes

Best Shoes For Assisted Living Employees

Best Shoes For Assisted Living Employees

Working in an assisted living or nursing home facility can present a couple of hazards. It’s important to be protected with hand sanitizer, scrubs, medical equipment, and slip resistant work shoes so you can be prepared for anything that comes your way. With everything going on in the workplace, our goal is to keep you safe by equipping you with the best medical shoes for your busy day.

Out of your entire work wardrobe, we believe that your shoes are one of the most important pieces and we have dedicated ourselves to help you find the perfect shoes for you.

With constant running around, trying to meet immediate needs that some patients may require, your feet may be hurting by the end of the day.  We can’t provide you with an electronic foot massager for those days you are always on your feet, but we can give you the most comfortable and safest shoes in the workplace.

A couple of key points you want to take into consideration when it comes to your shoes are posture and safety. Take a look at these shoes that are both comfortable and slip resistant.Assisted Living shoes
Our Dansko clog is the leading shoe in the healthcare industry. It isn’t just a great shoe, for the construction of it is fantastic. They are specifically designed to help alleviate back pain that comes from walking all day. Dankso clogs have also been awarded the Seal of Acceptance  from the American Podiatric Medical Association. The SR Max® Dansko clogs are even equipped with our patented MaxTrax® outsole, which provides an exceptional slip resistant bottom.  You will be safely working in style and in comfort.

Nursing home shoesIf you are looking for a shoe with more flexibility yet still slip resistant, this is the shoe for you. Walk into work with these Skechers shoes, and your co-workers will not believe that they are your work shoes! With the technology and durability of the iconic Skechers brand and our top-performing slip resistant outsole, this shoe will not leave you disappointed. This shoe is equipped with full-length memory foam footbed that will make you feel like you are walking on clouds.

 

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF TOP SHOE STYLES FOR ASSISTED LIVING EMPLOYEES. 

What is MaxTrax®?

At SR Max®, we talk a lot about MaxTrax®, our highly effective, patented, slip-resistant shoe outsole. But have you ever wondered what goes into making the sole that Works Where You Work? Well, wonder no more. We want to share a few of the things that make our MaxTrax® outsole so special.

When SR Max® first started in 2007, MaxTrax® had not yet been invented and we carried shoes with slip-resistant outsoles from other companies. In 2008, we decided to change the game by developing and producing the most slip resistant outsole available by:

  • Developing the overall design of the tread – The exclusive pattern is intended to give the outsole the maximum amount of surface area possible (increasing its contact with the floor for better traction) while still maintaining deep grooves designed to help channel liquids. This specialized groove design, while channeling fluids, allows for an inherent self-cleaning characteristic that keeps the bottom of our shoes cleaner than many other slip resistant shoes (though intermittent manual cleaning by the wearer is still necessary).
  • A flexible, soft rubber compound outsole – This specific outsole provides more give upon impact, allowing for an enhanced grip and maintaining a better hold with the ground. In our most recent independent Brungrabber Mark II slip resistance testing in greasy, high soil oily/wet, and wet environments, MaxTrax® proved itself to be a super star of slip resistance.  MaxTrax® far exceeded the Coefficient of Friction (i.e. the measure of slip resistance) necessary to make a safe step in each test. Where other outsoles failed on one type of surface or had COF’s near the mark for slipping on others, SR Max® alone surpassed the threshold on all surfaces tested.
  • Partnerships – All SR Max® brand shoes are made with the MaxTrax® outsole, but we’ve also partnered up with several other brands to make MaxTrax® available on select shoes offered exclusively by SR Max®. Look for the MaxTrax® logo on many styles we offer from brands such as Skechers, Dansko, Rockport Works, and Reebok.

Interested in getting your own pair of slip-resistant shoes featuring the MaxTrax® outsole? Check us out online at srmax.com to place an order, contact customer service, or request a catalog. 

maxtrax soles

*Please Note: While our MaxTrax® outsole is truly in a class of its own, it is important to remember that no shoe is completely slip-proof. This is particularly the case if the sole of the shoe is prevented from making contact with the floor (for example: slipping on a banana peel). Always use caution and take preventative measures when working in slippery environments.

You Deserve a Choice

At SR Max, we believe you deserve a choice when it comes to slip resistant shoes. If you prefer a low-profile sneaker to a traditional athletic, you should be able to choose from multiple styles. If you want a white shoe, you should have a plethora of options. And if you prefer to wear shoes from a certain brand, you should certainly have that option. Continue reading →

We Don’t Make Cheap Slip Resistant Shoes

Yes, you read that headline correctly: SR Max does not make cheap slip resistant shoes.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, cheap means “done with little effort,” “of inferior quality or worth,” and “lack of any fine, lofty or redeeming qualities.” None of those definitions apply to SR Max brand slip resistant shoes. Our customers deserve better. Our customers deserve the BEST.

See, there’s a difference between cheap slip resistant work shoes and value slip resistant work shoes. There are three keys to producing a value shoe: Quality, Comfort and Performance. Continue reading →

Why Should I Wear Slip Resistant Shoes?

Would you drive without a seatbelt or airbags?

Would you base jump or skydive without the right equipment?

How about ride a motorcycle without a helmet?

If you choose to do these things, you understand the inherent risks involved. But do you understand the risk you take if you don’t wear proper slip resistant shoes to work? You may have no idea of the risk you are taking, and how wearing the right safety shoes can alleviate those risks. Continue reading →