5 remote job sites you don't know + cool comfy kicks for spring
Attention job changers: We'd like to tell your story
These shoes are made for walking
Cool, comfy kicks for spring
On a long weekend walk in New York last year, I took full advantage of strolling down skyscraper canyons, exploring charming cobblestoned streets, and ambling down the paths of Central Park.
But all of the hoofing caused a wicked case of plantar fasciitis the likes of which I have never before experienced. I tried to treat it with stretches, Dr. Scholl’s shoe inserts, and ice, but eventually I had to admit more extreme measures were necessary: it was time to invest in some comfortable shoes.
A lot of us start feeling foot pain in midlife even if we didn’t spend our 20s and 30s wearing stilettos. Our feet put up with a lot, and even normal wear and tear over the years can cause them to start making noise. Almost a quarter of people over 45 report some kind of foot pain.
While in recent years I’ve made some concessions to comfort in my shoes (I rarely wear heels anymore), looking good has always been important to me. Could I find stylish, comfortable shoes to help heal my pain, or would I be relegated to ugly orthopedic clunkers?
Luckily, there are options beyond Crocs, whether you are suffering from a (hopefully) short-term condition like me or facing more long-term foot pain from arthritis, bunions, gout, or just plain age.
My first stop was my neighborhood Fleet Feet, which scans your feet to assess factors like arch height, instep height, and gait to recommend the best shoe options. I have both a high arch and a high instep, which led the staff member to suggest a few different brands and styles. After walking around the store in a few pairs, I opted for Hoka shoes — specifically Cliftons, which compared to my other shoes, feels like walking on a cloud.
I’m not a sneaker person — my look trends more toward chic than sporty. But I decided I could make these work, choosing a pretty lilac color that gives a boost to my wardrobe of navy, gray, and green.
Is this a silhouette I would normally choose? No. But part of being stylish is having confidence about unexpected combinations, so I’ve paired them with everything from wide-legged jeans to a black pantsuit. And it’s been fun experimenting with a different vibe.
Fashionable feet without the pain
I’m not a sneaker person — my look trends more toward chic than sporty. But I decided I could make these work, choosing a pretty lilac color that gives a boost to my wardrobe of navy, gray, and green.
Is this a silhouette I would normally choose? No. But part of being stylish is having confidence about unexpected combinations, so I’ve paired them with everything from wide-legged jeans to a black pantsuit. And it’s been fun experimenting with a different vibe.
I also like the sporty touches on other lines, like the platform soles in white.
While many orthotic-friendly shoes are easily identified as such, Naot has some sandals, loafers, and boots that are extremely fashion-friendly. Naot’s regular shoes are also designed with comfort in mind.
5 remote work sites you might not know
If you’re into working remotely, you probably already know that Linkedin, Indeed, and Zip Recruiter are good sources to find work-from-anywhere jobs. But did you know about these?
Have you made a big career change in midlife?
We want to hear from you. For an upcoming story, we’re seeking women 35+ who have transitioned from one career into an entirely new professional path. We want to hear about the good, the bad, and the ugly. Contact The Midst writer, Lauren Caggiano, at lauren@lovewriteon.com.
The Midst is a community-driven platform that inspires, connects, and empowers women 35+.
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I wear the Hoka Clifton all the time. They look great with a pair of wide leg trousers and a sweater.