If you couldn’t already tell by the pieces I design, comfort is a number-one priority for me. All of my clothes, in my opinion, speak to comfort in some way — whether it’s a not-super-fitted waist (which is to say an exaggerated, huge waist), or fur-lined pockets, or supersoft–but-sturdy fleeces. When I’m cozy and comfortable, I feel like I can do whatever I need to get done.
I found the Merrells last winter. I don’t remember why or exactly how, but I do remember falling in love with them online. I could just tell they were going to work. And I was right: They are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. So comfortable, I bought two pairs, in black and “stone,” a soft, cold brown. But I also think they’re cute: Sometimes, when I’m walking around in them, I’ll look down and be tickled by how they make my feet look like small but hefty loaves of bread.
The shoes’ Beluga whale–shaped area around the toes is strangely flattering on my wide, flat feet, which also appreciate their slight heel. It’s added support that keeps my feet happy, even if I’m standing on a shoot all day. And the soles are extremely grippy, so I never need to worry about slipping.
A shearling lining makes them extremely warm, and they are slip-ons, which is the icing on the cake. I never have to do that thing I do with every pair of sneakers — you know, that thing where you stick a finger in the heel and then try to shove your foot in without undoing the laces. I know what you might be thinking: If they are so easy to slip on, they must be great at slipping off as well. Not true. The shoes hug your feet in a secure, but not overbearing, way. They won’t let go until I’m ready to slip them off. In sum, a haiku: Ode to these Merrells / How you hug my feet so sweet / Safe “Wonder Bread” shoes.
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