Slippers make a great gift for the holidays, and with our in store slipper sale this December (wool clogs $10 off, slippers up to 25% off), no time is better to buy your loved one the gift of cozy comfort. Now with more styles and designs than ever, its easy to find a unique pair of slippers for all your friends and family.

For the indoor/outdoor slipper wearers – think people with dogs, long driveways, or a relaxed personal style – The men’s Haflinger wool clog or Haflinger clog for women is just the ticket. This super
comfortable slipper clog features an anatomically contoured cork and latex footbed for great support and cushion. The boiled wool upper of the slipper is naturally breathable; it won’t overheat inside but will keep warm in chilly weather.

For those that use their slippers exclusively indoors, try the warm and fuzzy acorn polar moc’s for men and women. The warm fleece upper and microfleece lining is sure to keep the wearer nice and cozy when relaxing inside. The outsole is non slip, meaning no slips or tumbles when transitioning from carpet to hardwood or tile.

If you’re looking for a slipper with more flair, perhaps for the crafty woman in your life, don’t forget about the crafty and cute Haflinger Charisma or the Acorn Cleo. Wool uppers of
both these slippers offer cozy comfort while the floral accents and yarn details add fun flair to the designs.

If you’re buying for someone who likes having the best of the best, look for sheepskin slippers. The UGG Rylan slipper for women is a classic from the iconic comfort brand. Or try the similar Acorn Sheepskin Bootie for men. The authentic sheepskin is soft and luxurious, and also breathes to prevent overheating when walking or wearing inside.

For the dog and cat lovers out there, look no further than the Haflinger Kitty or Doggy slippers, so you’re friend can bring their best friend everywhere. For men, Haflinger brings you the Oktoberfest or Golf slipper, sure to satisfy their cravings for recreation when the day’s agenda calls for otherwise.

Still searching? See our full list of men’s, women’s, and kid's comfortable slippers.

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The snow has arrived in Boulder and unless you live in Southern California, it probably has where you live too! At Pedestrian Shops, we've got a great selection of waterproof/water-resistant boots for both men and women that will keep feet dry and toasty throughout even the biggest snow storms of the season.

Sorel is a brand that makes its shoes ready for an Artic snowstorm but fashioned with the urban in mind. For women the Joan of Arctic boot allows the inner fashionista to strut in the snow without worrying about cold toes. For men, the 1964 Premium T Canvas boot (pictured above) offers a tough outer layer for your feet.

Merrell also offers boots for both women and men this year. Women should check out the Angelic Peak boot (pictured above), lending a classic, sleek style to even the dampest of snows. This boot can transition from snowstorm to the office easily. For men, the Bergenz boot is a classically designed boot with a rugged outsole for grip and waterproof leather uppers.

Keen features some great waterproof Keen.Dry styles for women as well. The Brighton Low (pictured above) or Brighton High boot make a cozy winter boot that is comfortable too thanks to the metatomical footbed.

New to the boot scene this year is Teva. They’ve made their winter shoe debut one to note iwht the women’s Vero WP boot (pictured above), a snow boot with the style and comfort of a Teva sandal but the insulation and waterproof upper for winter.

In the past, barefooters have sulked at the end of the warm season, burying their no-cushion-needed shoes deep in the back of their closet so as not to remind them of better barefooting conditions during the snow, ice, and bitter cold of the winter months. This season, minimalist shoes include warm, insulated uppers (no mesh!), making barefoot shoes wearable year round.

Vibram FiveFingers has showcased the men’s KSO Trek in previous years, but this year introduced two new shoes with leather uppers for casual or active use. The Trek LS is a lace-up leather shoe that features retro sneaker style with enough warmth to keep those toes happy. The Bormio offers a five-fingered leather boot, allowing you to barefoot even the coldest of days while making your way to the office, lunch meeting, or coffee shop. No leather Vibrams for women just yet, but your best cold-weather option might be the Komodo Sport with some cozy Injinji socks for added protection.

Merrell launched a line of barefoot shoes sans separated toes last season and is continuing their minimalist revolution with more insulated styles to keep you protected and on your bare feet this fall and winter. The Lithe Glove for women and Sonic Glove for men features a softshell upper for the active barefooter, warding off the chill yet allowing your feet to breathe simultaneously.

While none of these shoes may be ideal for the 5 inches of fresh powder that might accompany your day, during the dryer, colder months a barefoot shoe with more insulative materials other than mesh will do wonders. Autumn and winter barefooting at its best is brought to you by Vibram FiveFingers and Merrell Barefoot. Stay warm and stay barefoot!

Say hello to the Teva Churn.

While Churn may look like just your average, every day sneaker, this couldn't be further from the truth. The comfy Churn shoe for women and men is ready for action on all your travel adventures this summer weather you're rafting the Colorado River, gallavanting about Costa Rica or spending the weekend car camping.

The first thing you might notice about the Churn is all that mesh. What is all that mesh doing there? The clever designers over at Teva use this for breathability on land, draining squelchy water from your shoes and getting your toes dry as fast as the can. Bonus! This mesh actually keeps sand from entering your shoe. Mud puddles on the other hand, you might need to watch out for.

For the airport savy, you'll want to take note of the unique transtioning feature of the Churn. In one quick swoop of the heel you go from full-coverage sneaker to easy on/off slide. Delight as you glide past security and those stuggling to put on their shoes while deperately clinging to their jacket, bag, laptop, bag of liquids and whatever else overpackers feel the need to have with them. Revel in its compact, lightweight easy-to-pack form, should you opt for a dressier look while traveling.

Not to be forgotten, the sole of this shoe stands out on a variety of surfaces. While not recommended for heavy hiking, this is a great light trekking shoe for walking cobblestones or jungle trails. Should you run into a stream crossing, beckoning lake, or the occasional deep puddle, don't fret about traction; The Churn sticks like glue to wet rocks.

If you're looking for comfortable shoes to get you around the world or your own backyard this summer, look no further than the Teva Churn.

The 33rd Memorial Day 10K Bolder Boulder is fast approaching! You have exactly one week to prep for the festiviteis on May 30th. While for some that might mean building/sewing/shopping for a costume, others might want to think about buying and breaking in some new shoes especially for the bid day.

Runners/Joggers
The Newbalance MR770 Light Stability trainer for men and women provides support and security in a lightweight, airy package. It features ABZORB technology for impact resistance and a medium arch to accomodate a wide range of foot types. Remove the footbed and add your Superfeet for a custom fit. Know the freedom of not having to focus on your feet as you race through Boulder!

Barefoot Runners
For those who want to free themselves from the chunk, you'll want to try the popular Vibram Bikila LS or the Merrell Trail Glove, depending on your style. Both free you from the bonds of cushion and padding to allow a down-to-earth, life changing experience with running. For women, see the Vibram Bikila LS (pictured above) and the Merrell Pace Glove. Start training now - you'll only be able to run one or two miles at first in these minimalist shoes!

Walkers/Sightseers
For female walkers, your best option is the running-inspired walking shoe, the Walking Fitness, from New Balance. Flexibility, support, and comfort combine in this running-style shoe to stabilize the foot and help you walk with less fatigue. For men, try the Saucony Grid 3. Stable yet light, this trainer might even inspire a casual trot to the finish line...if your costume allows it, that is.

Bolder Boulder is the perfect race to see what a new pair of shoes can do for your walking or running (or dance-walking, or skipping)! Find running/walking shoes now and enjoy your Memorial Day Weekend!

Whether you own a pair of their famous clogs or not, every woman should be aware of the new line that Dansko has created this season.

Dansko is known for their clogs. For those that don't own a pair, they probably fall into their "ugly shoe" category. For those of us in on the Dansko secret, their clogs are a fun way to dress up your feet with the best arch support money can buy. If you're looking forward to the warmer weather (but not the inevitable no-support sandals that come with it), try this on for size: Dansko sandals...Dansko dress sandals...Dansko dress sandals with heels.

Many of the sandals carry the American Podiatric Medical Association seal of acceptance, a big plus for those who are looking to avoid painful footwear. The outsole of the carefully constructed heel also provides shock absorption, flexibility, and energy return with every step. Lined in Dri-lex, moisture is wicked away as you walk, boogie or strut your stuff.

Dress up or down these day-to-night styles like the serena, sigrid, sara, suzy (shown above), sissy, coquette, or clarissa for 2 inches of fabulous comfort.

Don't forget the even higher heels like the rowena or the ripley!

Welcome back for Versatile Summer Shoes for Men! For many, versatility in apparel might mean going from day to night. Here in Boulder, versatile clothing means stepping from downtown to down trail in just a few moments. This spring and summer, don’t delay your adventures by having to bus/walk/bike/drive back to your house to change shoes. Instead, see the latest scoop on comfortable shoes meant to be taken for light hiking, golfing, or kayaking, but styled to handle town as well.

Are you itching for that 5 o’clock bell on weekdays? Then the Keen Bidwell sandal is just the shoe for you. Relaxed yet polished, the leather lining and upper of this airy sandal will blend in at a casual office. Come evening, the memory foam footbed, classic Keen toe bumper and rugged construction will serve you well on light hikes and walks.

Patagonia knew exactly what they were doing with the Boaris A/C sneaker. The perforated upper will keep your feet cool as you move from town to trail. The Vibram sole tops it all off for the ultimate in versatile sneaker functions this summer.

This summer hiking/water sandal from Teva will have you splashing through every creek you can find. The neoprene lining drys quick while the Durabrasion rubber sole gives you the ultimate in wet and dry rock traction. Try the Katavi for the best in summer sandal activities.

Go from the green to your favorite happy hour joint in Ecco’s Golf Street Premiere shoe. Cool and casual enough for everyday interaction, yet designed to grip the grass…or sand if it’s not your day.

Follow this link to read Versatile Summer Shoes Part I – Women’s.

For many, versatility in apparel might mean going from day to night. Here in Boulder, versatile clothing means stepping from downtown to down trail in just a few moments. This spring and summer, don’t delay your hiking adventures by having to bus/walk/bike/drive back to your house to change shoes. Instead, see the latest scoop on comfortable shoes meant to be taken for light trekking in town and on the trail.

Teva always pleases when it comes to living outdoors. If you’re looking for an open-toed sandal in which to trek and travel, the Neota is it. They will transition with ease from the morning’s farmer’s market to the afternoon’s river walk with the dogs.

If you want to protect your little piggies, look no further than the Cherry Mesh shoe from Jambu. This shoe features enough mesh and open vents to keep the air circulating around your foot like a sandal, but enough straps and bumpers to keep your foot secure and safe.

From the Merrell Barefoot line, this Pure Glove mary jane is ready to take on anything in sporty minimalist style. Take them on a nature walk and then into town for a quick bite at your local cafe.

The Whisper sandal is classic Keen versatility and fun strappy style. Live a hybrid life in these shoes when playing outdoors, crossing rivers, or running errands. In Keen fashion, the toe bumper will keep you stub-free while the sandal straps make this a summer shoe you won’t go without.

Stay tuned for Summer Versatility Part II – Men’s!

One bright, sunny day, a runner not much different from yourself decided it was high time we get in touch with our early ancestral roots and homo sapien origins. The barefoot running craze took off at an alarming rate, boasting full body muscle toning benefits and a sense of natural freedom that human kind had forgotten.

These days it’s obvious that running around barefoot might have certain health benefits, but the amount of debris on the ground and hot paved surfaces has spiked slightly since the beginning of man. Enter: Vibram Fivefingers to the rescue! Vibram introduced their shoes as an alternative to going completely barefoot and facilitated the spread of barefoot running to more than just hippie enthusiasts. This season, a new barefoot shoe has arrived from Merrell. The questions remains, Merrell or Vibram, is this town big enough for the both of them?

Let’s break down the facts:

Activities:
Merrell: Running, walking, trails, casual
Vibram: Running, walking, treking
Design:
Merrell: Common shoe
Vibram: Distinct look, toes separated
Midsole
Merrell: 4mm EVA
Vibram: 4mm EVA
Footbed
Merrell: Non-removable, antimicrobial microfiber
Vibram: Non-removable, antimicrobial microfiber
Sole
Merrell: Vibram TC-1 rubber compound
Vibram: Vibram TC-1 rubber
Secures to Foot
Merrell: Lacing system
Vibram: Hook and loop velcro closure
Upper
Merrell: Microfiber and mesh
Vibram: Coconut Active Carbon Fiber
Toe Bumper
Merrell: Yes
Vibram: Yes, for each toe
Care
Merrell: Machine washable
Vibram: Machine washable
Price
Merrell: $109.95
Vibram: $99.95

Looks like you have a difficult choice ahead. While your decision may just come down to aesthetics, if you like the eye-catching Treksport or the incognito Trail Glove, the difference in range of barefoot shoes is important to note. Vibram provides shoes that are water specific like the Sprint or KSO, for indoor use only, for kids, etc. Vibram also has a sizable yoga following for their balancing properties. Merrell provides three sneaker-style shoes for men (the Trail, Tough, and True glove) and the sneaker Pace Glove, mary jane Pure Glove, and a mid-height strap glove (sandal?) Power Glove for women.

It seems that there may be room for the Merrell Barefoot series, and enthusiasts are making themselves known on the web. Whether it be the sneaker-like trail glove or the toe-hugging Sprint, the bottom line is barefoot. Both allow you to tone muscles you never knew you had, better your posture, and feel the freedom of leaving those bulky trainers in the dust.

Happy trails!

It’s International Women’s Day! To celebrate, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite feminine shoes. From sandals to boots, putting on these shoes will make you happy to be a woman.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila
Nothing says “I’m proud to be a woman” like a whole lotta pink. The Bikila from Vibram Fivefingers lets you run in statement-making style all over town. As if you didn’t turn enough heads already.

El Naturalista Wakataua
El Naturalista paired flirty style with eco-friendly construction to create the Wakataua slide. This shoe is meant for today’s environmentally friendly modern woman.

Merrell Chameleon Arc 2 Air
Merrell brings women everywhere the ability to dominate the trails with the Chameleon Arc 2 Air hiking shoe. With women’s specific stride-sequenced cushioning, this shoe will make you smile with every confident, agile, womanly step.

Clarks Class Grace
Clarks brings a uniquely retro yet modern twist to the summer heel in the Class Grace. Women rejoice at this dress heel that cushions, ventilates, and adjusts to fit.

Teva Mush Adapto
Teva caters to the laid-back aquatic-loving woman with the Mush Adapto. This classic flip-flop thong with a twist shows off your tanned feet and keeps them comfortable.

Whether you wear flops, heels, or hiking boots, these shoes will make you proud to be a bridge-crossing, ceiling-shattering woman. Happy International Women’s Day!

With Boulder being the touristy, outdoorsy town that it is, there are many places to walk. Whether it’ s for
fun while shopping at Pearl Street Mall, fitness walking along Boulder Creek Path or on one of our town’s
many beautiful open space trails; there are always scenic and fun places to walk and enjoy the view.

If you do, in fact, decide to visit one of these beautiful places you will need the proper footwear. That is
where we at Pedestrian Shops come in. We know what to help our customers look for in the perfect shoe.
We can guide you in the right direction. Before you shop for your next fitness walking shoe take a look at
these guidelines to help with your decision.

First, look for a shoe that is flexible. You will want something that moves naturally with your foot. This
is very important in a walking shoe. You will want something that flexes with your “ heel-toe” motion.
Natural foot strikes keep the bones in you feet aligned and strong.

Second, look for a flat heel. If you have a shoe with a heel that is raised in any way, it could change the
alignment of the bones in your feet. Your feet support your whole body and if they are out of alignment the
rest of your body will be as well.

Since walkers strike the ground heel first you will want to stay away from a flared heel. Having a flared
heel could potentially misalign your entire body. An even better “ way to go” is to look for a slightly
undercut heel.

Shock absorbency is another important thing to look for in a walking shoe. Having a shoe with good shock
absorbing materials will help to protect the bones and joints in the foot and knees.

All-over support is very important when looking for a great walking shoe, and specifically looking for great
arch support should be high on the list of things to look for. Good arch support could help prevent muscle
and bone damage in the foot.

Now, getting into specifics, there are 2 main types of feet. There are pronating feet and supinating feet.
Pronators are people who excessively roll their feet inward when the foot should be pushing off. For this
we recommend finding a shoe with a motion control device in the midsole and a reinforced heel. Supinators
are people who do just the opposite and their feet excessively roll outward after landing. For all the
supinators out there we recommend looking for a shoe with a lot of stability and a sturdy outer sole.

Along with the many, many waking shoes we carry at Pedestrian shops, these are a few of our favorite shoes for walking for fitness.

First, for the ladies, we really like the New Balance WW926WT. It has the flat heel we mentioned along
with great stability, arch support, and wonderful all-over support for the foot. The same reasons as listed for
the WW926WT we love the men’ s version, which is the New Balance MW926BK.

Another excellent option for a great walking shoe for both men and women is the Saucony Progrid Ride 3.
This shoe is made for running but great for fitness walking. It has significant shock absorption, ventilated
mesh to keep your feet cool and comfy and it has that flat non-flared heel we mentioned as well.

We also love the Women’ s New Balance 850 True Balance here at Pedestrian Shops. Yes, it is one of those
trendy toning shoes, but this one is great. One look at it and you will see why we love it. These shoes will
have your legs and “ bottoms” toned ladies! The best part is, they have maximum shock absorbency for a
toning shoe!

So if you live in, or are just visiting Boulder, Colorado and would like to try out some new walking shoes,
come in and visit us at Pedestrian Shops, we’ ll get you started on finding the perfect walking shoe for you!

Boulder, Colorado is well known for having great spots to climb, and there are many! One of the
advantages of being a climber in Boulder is there are many indoor and outdoor places to climb. There
is Boulder Rock Club & Colorado Mountain School, as well as Colorado Athletic Training School,
Movement Climbing & Fitness, and The Spot just to name a few indoor places. As far as outdoor climbing
spots, there are places like Bastille Crack on the north face of the Bastille in Eldorado Springs, The Three
Tiers of Avalon about 8.2 miles up Boulder Canyon, and The Flatirons with 3 climbs and over 1,000
feet of slab on each climb! Here in Boulder anyone from the novice to advanced climber can always find
something to do!

Before climbing, you have to make sure you have the right equipment, and part of that equipment is having
the proper shoes. There are a lot of factors to consider when buying the right climbing shoe for you. Just
like we mentioned in the blog for hiking, personal preference is a huge factor in finding the correct shoe.
We do have some general guidelines to get you started.

If you are buying your first pair of climbing shoes, the most important thing is to ask questions. So, you will want to talk to someone knowledgeable, like the staff at the Pedestrian Shops, who can answer any questions or concerns you may have.

A stiff sole for optimal foot support is extremely important. You will need that support as you become a
more advanced climber. The tougher the terrain, the more support you will need.

Look for a shoe that has a high cut upper. It can be extremely important to have ankle support when in
sticky situations. You will especially need the ankle support if you are just starting out.

You will also want a shoe that has a snug, but comfortable fit. The rule of thumb is, if it feels like the
shoe was specifically made for your foot, then it’s probably the one you want to get. You don’t want any
blisters, or to lose a shoe while climbing. If you’re climbing indoors it’s probably not a big deal, but when
out in the mountains that shoe would be lost forever.

The final big thing you will want to look for is that the shoe you get doesn’t stretch width wise. If it does
this, there is a good chance you could experience either blisters or losing your shoe forever. As I mentioned
above, I am sure that is something you would want to prevent.

Pedestrian Shops #1 recommended shoe for climbing is the Vibram Trek Sport. We carry this particular
shoe in both men’s and women’s sizes. The Trek Sport was designed for outdoor sports. One look at
it and you can plainly see why we recommend this one for climbing! It is lightly cleated for a good
grip, it’s breathable, lightweight, and is specifically designed to promote a more natural foot strike.
It as close to climbing barefoot as you can get without taking your shoes off! How cool is that?!

So, come to Pedestrian Shops and let our friendly, knowledgeable staff help you find the right shoe for
whatever sport, or occasion you may need them for.

Part 3, walking…

Pedestrian Shops is located in the heart of one of the most outdoor activity driven cities in the United
States. Since we love the outdoors and sell footwear that is appropriate for just about any activity Boulder,
Colorado has to offer, we thought a 5 part blog series on the 5 “biggies” would be informative and helpful.

First up, Hiking…

Here in Boulder, there are many options to choose from when looking for a nice trail to hike. From
Chatauqua park beneath the Flatirons, with it’s varied terrain (meadows, hills and forest land) to Bald
Mountain overlooking the eastern plains and the continental divide; anyone can find the perfect trail for
them.

Now, when choosing the best shoe for hiking, in the end it’s entirely up to your personal taste. However,
there are factors you should consider before committing to “just any” shoe.

The first choice you have to make is “Shoes or boots?” There are advantages and disadvantages to both.
Below is a list of pros and cons of each…a basic “check list” if you will.

Advantages of shoes over boots:

-Shoes are lighter in weight which comes in handy if you are making a shorter hike.

-Wearing a boot can make you tired quicker. It can be more strain and stiffness on your ankle
which can tire you out much quicker.

- Shoes are always better ventilated. Keeping feet cool in warmer weather is always a plus!

-They are much more flexible. If you have to do a little climbing your shoes will bend a little
more like your feet.

-If you get shoes wet, they will dry quicker. It’s really just that simple. You don’t want your
feet soaked throughout your hike.

-In the end a shoe will be more comfortable because of all these factors.

Advantages of boots over shoes:

-When hiking through water, boots will keep your feet drier. The higher the ankle on your boots,
the higher the water level you can walk through without your feet getting wet.

-A thicker sole will get better traction through mud.

-The higher ankle will also protect better from brush and ground debris.

-Boots tend to keep rocks, and dirt out better. Who wants a pebble in their shoe?

-A more substantial sole can keep sensitive feet from bruising.

-When it comes down to it, boots can last longer than shoes.

So you may be asking yourself, “What shoes or boots would you recommend?” I was just about to get to
that. Here at Pedestrian Shops we have many hiking shoes to choose from and it could be overwhelming,
which is why we have a few of our favorites below.

For the ladies we recommend Keen’s Voyager, Keen’s Redrock, and Merrell’s Kinetic. Listed below are
the things we like about this footwear for hiking.

Keen’s Voyager

-Waterproof
-Lightweight
-Breathable

Keen’s Redrock

-Lightweight
-Waterproof
-Breathable
-Flexible

Merrell’s Kinetic

-Flexible
-Lightweight
-Breathable

For the gentlemen we recommend Merrell’s Moab Ventilator, and Ecco’s Track II-High GTX. Advantages
of the men’s footwear are listed below.

Merrell’s Moab Ventilator

-Breathable
-Supportive Sole
-Flexiblity of a shoe
-Supportive ankle height of a boot

Ecco’s Track II-High GTX

-Substantial Sole
-Flexible for a boot
-High quality, durable leather

We also have a recommendation for both men and women. Patagonia’s Release for men and for women.
Why do we like these? There is another list below to answer just that question.

Patagonia’s Release (Men's, Women's)

-Breathable
-Quick Drying
-Water resistant
-Forefoot shock stability.

If you ask yourself what you are looking for in a hiking shoe and take in to consideration everything we
have listed for you; we are sure you can find the perfect shoe (or boot) for your hiking trips across Boulder.

Stay tuned for part 2, “Climbing”…

Blundstone Clogs are here at the Pedestrian Shops!
We have sold Blundstones for many years now, but really only in their classic boot styles. The Blundstone boot, or "Blunnie" has always been kind of a cult classic in the work-boot world - and a staple of our store and website.
I guess it never occurred to us that they would do much different than the tried and true boot. But, now that they have created the Blundstone Clog - it seems like a perfect fit, and addition to our store offerings.
The Blundstone Clog is a convertible version of our classic 500 series boot and offers the same durability and classic comfort that Blundstone is known for with their boots. And you wouldn't think it to look at them, but these clogs are lightweight too! Some of the other features of the Blundstone Clog include:

- Direct injected dual polyurethane outsole
- SPS in the heel
- Industrial strenght liner
- Waterproof leather

You can purchase this fabulous clog in our store on Pearl Street, or from our website!

We have added a new Brand of shoes to the Pedestrian Shops catalog - Pikolinos Shoes and Sandals!
These shoes are made in Spain, and they are beautifully crafted and supremely comfortable!

Pikolinos are hand-crafted, and hand sewn with all natural leather that is very soft, but very durable. The colors of Pikolinos shoes are rich and unique, as are the designs.

Pikolinos uses a "sewn to sole" method of production on many models, which allows the shoe to be flexible and to adapt to each individual's foot - thus achieving maximum comfort.

The Pedestrian Shops is proud to carry Pikolinos - among the styles we carry are the Mallorca, the Jerez, and the Romana.

Every year, and every season that the Pedestrian Shops receives new styles, there are usually a few that really stand out as being superstars. Many of them stand the test of time, and are shoes that we have now carried for years. Recently, the J-41 Journey made the superstar list.

As this is being written, it is almost 70 degrees in Boulder, and people are outside in full-force - most notably the runners! Did you know that Olympic runners frequently train in Boulder due to the wonderful weather, and for the elevation? Training at 5,000-plus feet really helps your lungs to get into great shape!
We also have the Bolder Boulder coming very fast. This year it will be held on the 31st of May (Memorial Day)

So what does this all have to do with the Pedestrian Shops? Well, after 30+ years of being in the business of selling the world's most comfortable brands of shoes - we are finally now selling the world's best running shoes! That's right - Boulder now has another great alternative for running shoes - and the great thing is that the Pedestrian Shops Pearl Street store is right in the middle of all of the great Bolder Boulder action!

Two of our big brands that we are now carrying are New Balance and Saucony. If you need your running shoes before the big race, you can take advantage of our website's FREE SHIPPING and have them delivered right to your doorstep.

We encourage you to stop by the store to see our great selection of running shoes, and we wish you a fun and fast Bolder Boulder!

We've been on a bit of a kick lately about our UGG Boots. As this blog post is being written, it is cold and windy outside, and the forecast is for snow. The mountains above Boulder have those wispy looking clouds that scream "winter is on the way."
Many people around here are getting excited for ski season as well. Some of the mountains are already open, and many are pumping out the man-made snow to get a jump on things.
So what are you going to wear on your feet this winter after you are done shredding the slopes? Or, what is the best boot for you when you brave the elements to do your Christmas shopping? Naturally, being a shoe store, we have a favorite pick (well, one of our many favorites): It's the Ugg Classic Short.
One of the reasons that we like this boot is that it just looks warm and cozy. You can't help but to want to try a pair on as soon as you see them. And they are exactly that - warm and toasty since they are made out of lavish twin-faced sheepskin. The genuine sheepskin sock wicks moisture away, and the flexible, lightweight molded EVA outsole can handle the walk down Bridge Street in Vail while the snow is flying.
These boots are also easy to slip on and off, and are a great choice for when you are doing your Christmas shopping this year. They'll keep your feet cozy and toasty while you wait in those long lines at Target or Best Buy to get that super pre-holiday sale price!
The Pedestrian Shops carries most of the classic Ugg's in both the short and tall versions. The make a great gift to yourself this holiday and ski season, or a great gift for a loved one.

Have you ever wondered how some people can get away with wearing anything, and pull it off somehow without getting laughed out of town? Then, do you wonder who started this particular fashion trend that would gather crowds in any circus? Well, we may have found the answer...at least when it comes to UGG Boots.
If you haven't ever seen them, UGG's are sheepskin boots that come in short, or tall versions. They kind of have a 'status symbol' effect going, especially when it comes to movie stars. You'll see the top of the "paparazzi food chain" wearing them with just about anything - shorts, cutoffs, mini skirts, muscle shirts, or even swimsuits and bikinis.
Just as Oprah can do by just declaring something "hot" or "in" - there are many other stars that can be considered fashion trendsetter elite. When it comes to UGG's, there is no more impressive iconic figure than miss Pamela Anderson. With a casual trot across the sand in her skimpy red lifeguard duds, Pam single-handedly declared that wearing UGG's to the beach in your teeniest of bikinis is not just cutting-edge fashion....it's art!

I remember about 8 years ago when I was working for an outdoor sporting equipment company, one of the items that we put on the site was the Merrell Jungle Moc. I didn't really think of this as an "outdoor" product but our company had a line of shoes (mostly climbing shoes, etc), and this one made it on the list of offerings.
I remember someone in our office wearing a pair, and I loved how he could just slip them on or off under his desk when he was working. I am of the type of person who likes to work at the computer "sans footwear." I asked him about these shoes, and he said that they were his favorite pair. I did notice that he wore them every day.
So, naturally, I bought a pair. My first pair was Taupe, which is a color that Merrell seems to offer a lot in many of their styles. Merrell also does experiment with a lot of colors, and has done so with the Jungle Moc line. Some of these colors have come and gone, but Taupe, Gunsmoke, and Black seem to be the standards for the Jungle Moc.
I really liked how you could get away with wearing them with Jeans or even with shorts. Many of my outdoor enthusiast friends liked them as "campsite" shoes or car shoes since they are really easy to put on and take off. They also have a pretty grippy and durable sole. The Jungle Moc also keeps your feet reasonably warm in the winter, but also cool in the warmer months.
I wore my Jungle Mocs literally into the ground. They have consistently been a favorite in my humble collection of shoes. Now that I also have a small child, I am excited that Merrell offers Jungle Mocs for kids. Again, they are easy to wear and very durable. Mine lasted for several years.
The Pedestrian Shops carries a full line of Merrell's, including the Jungle Mocs for both men and women, and, as mentioned, for kid's too!

We have just gotten in a new line of really cool boots - Kamik Boots - which are made in Canada. Canadians are probably pretty adept at making quality boots, since this is the land of weather extremes...a place where "the harshest conditions intersect with some of the most beautiful sights you'll ever see." These boots are not only built to protect, they are also a fun feast for the eyes. The styles and colors lean towards the crazy and extreme, but somehow, they don't go into the realm of obnoxious. They are simply put - fun.

The actual "line" we are carrying comes from their "Atrium Rainboots" collection. In specific, we now carry the Women's Tulipe, Ellie and Bohemia styles. Each one of these boots are made to protect you from the elements. Colorful and functional with funky patterns that you have likely never seen.

These boots are waterproof with Italian lining, and interestingly, these boots are recyclable, according to Kamik. They have a removable footbed, and have outsoles that give excellent traction in rainy conditions.

Maybe the best part about these Kamik boots is that they are really affordable. Ordering them online from the Pedestrian Shops gives you a $10 discount, bringing the Tulipe and the Bohemia to $59.95, and the Ellie to $74.95.

I remember when Earth Footwear came "back" several years ago. They were originally called "Earth Shoes" in the 70's, and since I am all of 37 years old, I don't really remember them. Our owner, Richard brought a pair of the new ones in and he was very excited about them. He, of course, remembers what a big deal they were back in the day. Time magazine even took time to 'remember' them in 2001 with a sort of a 'they're back' article. I took one look at the pair Richard was holding and thought "They look nice, but what is the big deal?" I sort-of took his word for it that we might sell a few pair if we carried them in the store. I wasn't holding my breath, though.
As I remember, we were one of the first e-tailers to have the "new" Earth Footwear/Shoes available online. Almost immediately, we could not keep up with the demand. It seemed like every aging hippie in America was calling us, e-mailing us, or coming into the store to get their hands on a pair of these flashbacks to the past.
It was an exciting time, and over the past 4-5 years, the Earth brand has really developed. I actually bought a pair, and wore them until they fell apart. The reason that I liked them, and the reason that most people like them is that they have a unique "negative heel" that keeps your posture in good shape, and tones your calf and core muscles while you walk, and apparently they also burn more calories in the process:

The first year they were back out, I can only remember a handful of styles. I think the style I was wearing was called the "Dynamite" but I don't think they make that one any more. Now, it seems as if Earth Footwear is on the leading edge of innovation and style every year. Their product line has grown incredibly to include boots, sandals and shoes.
I think it is safe to say that Earth is in it for the long-run. Every year, it is exciting to see what they come out with. If you can burn calories by wearing their shoes now, maybe in 10 years you'll be able to run the equivalent of a marathon without ever leaving your office. Well, probably not, but I'm sure they will continue to innovate!

I was doing some searches today on google for a few specific Patagonia Shoes and came across a video clip on Youtube about these DIY (Do It Yourself) shoes by Patagonia. Although, I have to admit, our store doesn't carry these yet, I had to post this video because it is just downright cool.

We like Patagonia for many reasons. Firstly, as is very obvious by the video clip here, Patagonia is cutting-edge and very orignial. Their styles are unique as is their company. Patagonia is a leader in creating products that are earth-friendly. Patagonia is also a leader in being an environmental voice and example. "We evaluate raw materials, invest in innovative technologies, rigorously police our waste and use a portion of our sales to support groups working to make a real difference." Many of their shoes use recycled materials and renewable resources.
The Pedestrian Shops is proud to offer a number of great styles from Patagonia, the casual Bagley, to the more dressy Pau style for men that features pliable leather outers as well as Dri-Lex backed wool footbeds that cradle your foot and help with temperature and moisture control.

We are now carrying a really great brand for our store - GroundHog shoes. The reason that this is such a great brand to carry, especially in "Earth Friendly" Boulder, Colorado is - exactly that these shoes are nice to the Earth! Boulder "crunchies" love this kind of stuff!
Groundhog shoes use renewable or recycled materieals in the making of their shoes wherever possible. They also try to source materials local to the factories where the shoes are produced, which cuts down on transportation and energy use. GroundHog shoes are also really stylish and comfortable. The Pedestrian Shops hopes to expand our offering of GroundHog shoes as they become more available to us!

I saw a co-worker of mine wearing these funky looking shoes - really funky - meaning that when you wear them, you are likely to be stopped by total strangers to ask what in the heck you are wearing, and thinking. These crazy shoes are the Vibram Five Fingers.
This co-worker of mine gushed about how wonderful these shoes were - and how she wore them everywhere - indoors and out. She even said she wore them running, which is something even Vibram themselves say this shoe is made for. Running? You have to be crazy! These shoes look like they have no support whatsoever. At least that is what I thought. So, with low expectations, I tried a pair on, and from that point on, I was sold. I now knew a little better what the whole craze of 'Barefooting" was about.
I have literally taken my Vibram Five Fingers running, hiking, and I have to say, one of the best places to wear Five Fingers is when you are traveling - especially on a plane. They are comfortable, light, and I have not been hassled by any airport staff while wearing mine.
Five Fingers can get a little stinky after a lot of wear - but that is ok - they are washable. These "shoes" provide a feeling of freedom and lightness that I have never experienced before in a shoe.
The Pedestrian Shops carries several styles of the Five Fingers for both men and women.

There is something to be said about being unique, or different from everyone else. When you visit any mall or playground, it seems like half of the feet out there are sporting the Crocs Beach. Like most anything else, after you see something too much, you tend to stop noticing it as much. That's why the Crocs Yukon is so great - it is similar to the Beach model, but very obviously different in many ways. Most noticeably, there is a leather upper that screams "Wear Me With Jeans!" The leather gives the Yukon an air of sophistication - a feature that will let you get away with wearing this shoe in more places and with a wider range of clothes. Still, this clog is very breathable with several ventilation ports in the side. The back strap also has leather. These clogs are definitely masculine, and would make a great gift for dad, or any guy in your family this coming holiday season, or for a birthday! The Crocs Yukon is a best-seller in our Pearl Street store - and for good reason! once people see this style in person, they see how unique and stylish they are. The Yukon is available in our store, as well as on our website in 4 different colors - Army, Black, Chocolate and Khaki.

The Wolky Strap-Cloggy isn't really a new style for us, but one that we are really glad that we carry. This has become one of our most popular in-store shoes! One of the reasons that we like this 'cloggy' so much is that it has the American Podiatric Medical Association (AMPA) seal of acceptance - which means that you better believe that it is both comfortable, and really good for your feet, body and posture.
These Wolky's are superbly crafted in Spain, and they use the finest materials available. We carry them in 5 rich colors - Brandy, Brown, Green, Navy and Red.

It is that time of year again here in Boulder - the leaves are starting to change, and the mountains have this greenish/yellow look to them. The air is a lot more crisp, and you'll even see a jacket being worn here and there. Fall is here!
This is an exciting time for us here at the Pedestrian Shops as well - It means that our Fall 2008 footwear is in stock, and available for purchase in either of our 2 stores in Boulder (Pearl Street or Arapahoe) or on our newly-redesigned website!
We now have a great selection of Ugg Boots, Dansko Clogs, Ulu and a great selection of Crocs, Merrell, Keen and more! We also have toasty slippers and slipper socks by Acorn!
We hope to see you in our store soon, and we encourage you to take a look through our new site!

We are proud to let everyone know that we have added several of the Fall 2008 line of El Naturalista Boots!
This line has some really innovative features and designs. These shoes and boots are ergonomically designed with removable insoles - quite handy for anyone using orthopedic soles. Many of the materials are also recycles, giving them an Earth-friendly nod of approval.

El Naturalisa, you will probably find, are incredibly comfortable. They are anatomically designed, so they will fit the contours of your foot like a glove.

At the moment we carry the Ygdrassil boot, the Iggdrasil clogs and Mary Janes. We will continue to add more as we get them!

We have been adding a number of new styles from Simple to our site this week. Simples have always been a Pedestrian Shops favorite - with the classic Old School Sneakers to the New Original Clogs, these shoes seem to never go out of style. We even have one famous rock-star that orders the Old School sneakers from us occasionally (we won't name names, but he has been around for decades, and orders several pair at a time).
Simple is always innovating - and this Fall 2008 line is really quite special. Simple has really upped the bar on making green, "Earth Friendly" shoes this season. Many of the styles are made out of used tires, inner tubes and other materials that might normally be discarded to only add to our landfills. These new styles also use eco-friendly materials like Hemp and Bamboo.
This new line is really worth checking out, and we encourage you to take a look at our Fall 2008 Simples here.

We know that for most of the world, people are still wearing bikinis and flip-flops. Winter boots are as far from your mind as is hot chocolate. The Pedestrian Shops, however, has winter boots on our minds - most notably the Fall 2008 line of Ugg Australia.
We have started putting these boots on our site, and they will be available soon! We will be carrying the Classic Tall and Short models (these are the original, hugely popular boots by Ugg), as well as many new models including the women's "Cove" - with a shorter height, rich leathers and suedes lined in quality sheepskin and a wrapped lace detail. Taller boots will also be featured in the Fall 2008 line - the Kona boot is a stylish new addition to the UGG Australia Surf Collection. Made with rich leathers and suedes, the Kona has an edgy side detailing with elastic and faux bone enclosures. We'll have a lot more over the next few months. Check out all of our Fall 2008 Uggs!

We are excited to see a great new style in the store - the Dansko Sissy. This is a new style for 2008, and it is great for the warmer weather. Dansko has always been one of the best brands for the Pedestrian Shops, and we are excited about the new 2008 offerings.

The Dansko Sissy has circular cutouts dot the two adjustable straps for a touch of warm weather whimsy!

This great sandal can be ordered in our store, or on our newly redesigned website here