Testimonials tagged with tests
April 20th, 2009
SOLE Slim Casual is my number one choice
I first want to thank you for once again allowing me to test your fine products! Footbeds are such an important aspect of footwear that I can't help wanting to be part of the improvement process in some way! I can honestly tell you that I have tested virtually all of the major and minor brands Out there and have settled on several that really help me with comfort and support.
I have had better than average performance with SOLE, Shock Doctor, Down Under (used in my backpacking boots) and Super feet (this brand did great in my ice climbing boots).
Presently, the SOLE Slim Casual is my number one choice in my back packing boot and day to day foot wear (even over my Ed Viesters), the Ed's would be next For backpacking then Shock doctors then Down Unders.
I chose to fit the Casual into my Cabela's 8" hunting boot, which by the luck of the draw allows them to fit my HI-Tech casual trail shoes. There is a internal volume difference however, but usually different thicknesses of socks are also employed, so this presented no problem! In fact, I found a comfort increase with 8" inch boot out on the trail Snow shoeing (no kidding)! I have been testing snow shoes and socks all this winter so I added the casual's into the mix and was surprised with a greater level of comfort and support than I have had in the past (nice)! I believe there is an achievable synergy between sock footwear and footbeds and the foot, and when that is found the user is a very happy camper.
With the Casual, I found the fitting and molding process simple and straight forward- just follow the instructions! Durability is without question as snowshoeing puts a great strain on footwear etc and the "Casual" is still looking new even after many hours and miles of pounding and sweat. There are no signs of abrasion, wear, tears or break down. Odor and heat control is awesome as is friction control which must have something to do with fit and support as my foot maintains its position inside the boot etc . Bottom line I have no blisters or hot spots and my socks are not exhibiting unusual wear. I think one major benefit I the custom fit along with carefully chosen materials as the user's foot is properly supported and placed which aid in eliminating foot related injuries from improper support etc. Metatarsal support could be a bit thicker but, I have had none of the usual burning from neuromas etc, which was initially brought on by the lightning strike that exited my foot.
Out on the town the Casual adds comfort and support as well As my feet don't get tired and wore out when I'm shopping with my wife (who has an endless desire to go to every store in sight and this always kills my feet! I wonder if you guy's actually did me any favors here!). The Casual will add the necessities to foot wear that may be missing support and cushion (this is some thing that a sock can only in a limited way help with).
I recommend that everyone should experience the SOLE footbeds and see for them selves if they don't receive a higher level of performance from their foot wear. For me , it means I can get out to those distant backcountry lakes quicker, safer and feel like fishing instead of nursing my feet and I like that!!!
Layne T. Oliver — Satisfied Customer