Keen Erin Mary Jane Shoe : Kick Off Your Heels

I must have at least twenty pairs of black shoes in my closet. So it was time for a change. I wanted to add a little color to my spring palette. I also wanted a pair of cute shoes that I could spent a few hours in without my feet getting sore.

Keen's new Erin shoe, a casual mary jane-style shoe, is an ideal fit for me. I usually can't wear women's shoes because I have wide feet and wear a clunky full-length orthotic. I really lucked out with the Erin shoe - it's deep enough to accommodate my insole and wide enough for my Flinstone feet, but it doesn't make my feet look wide. I like that.

I also like the leather and mesh uppers. The mesh area hugs the top of my foot and provides plenty of ventilation. It's also soft against my skin, so I don't have to worry about rubbing or chafing. I like how Keen has designed the shoe to look light and fun, but still provide support. I get a sturdy shoe in a strappy style. In other words, nobody can tell by looking at my feet that I'm wearing these shoes as much for the orthopedic benefits as for the style.

The sole isn't as thick as the soles Keen uses on their hiking shoes, but it's got superior traction and stability for a casual street shoe. The Erin has a recycled footbed that contains cork and polyurethane; it's a nice padding layer.

The Erin also comes in a ballerina style, but I prefer the Mary Jane style. The straps keep my feet in place so I can walk as fast as I want and not worry about my shoes slipping or shifting.

The Erin shoe comes in four different colors - Black, Sunnyside, Firebrick, and Ensign (blue); and sizes range from 5-12 in both full and half sizes.

Bottom Line: Dress it up in black, or buy a pair to match your favorite spring dress.--E.D. (April 09)

Price : $95, ,

Manufacturer's Site : www.keenfootwear.com

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