Question about footwear

hey guys with bad RA feet.  Here's my issue.  the RA is the worst in my feet and shoulders.  Several years ago when Skeetcher came out with their "shape ups" I bought a pair.  Not under the false assumption that they would actually shape up my legs, but because that thick, cushioned heel looked like just the thing for my feet.  I was right!  Its to the point now that if I wear anything other than that, my feet will swell, and I'll limp for days.  I'm now on my second pair in 4 years (I usually wear my shoes until they are practically falling apart, especially when you've paid over $100 like these).  Problem is, I just bought this new pair in October and I am very dissatisfied with them because already, the stitching is coming apart.  I've emailed Skeetchers about it and send them pictures and they're response was that I should mail them to them, and they'll determine if I am due a refund or replacement.  Well that's all good and fine except....what will I wear while they're gone??  My question is, you guys with bad feet like me, what do you wear?  I can't keep spending $100 for shoes that are only going to hold up for 8 months.  Has anybody went and stood on that fancy Dr. Scholls thingy and got some of those shoes inserts?  if so, do they work?  Are there shoes out there made especially for us who have such sensitive feet?  What about those gel inserts, has anybody tried those?  I'm tired of my feet getting wet everytime it rains, but my feet are so persnickity now with the RA, I don't know what to do/wear.

I couldn't wear any shoes but danskos until I got on cimzia. They aren't cushy, but the rocker sole kept my metatarsals from bending very much with each step. They are pretty wide also.

I have had foot problems for years with plantar fascitis and now I have RA in my large toes as well. I recently discovered the "wave" style in the Clark brand of shoe and found that it helps me with lifting my toes a bit and doesn't have a flat sole but has a rocker feel to it. I still use my orthotics in my shoes if I plan on wearing them for a longer period of time. I recently bought the Clark's wave sandals as well from Zappos (free shipping both ways) and haven't been disappointed so far. Foot Smart has a nice catalog too that might help you out with ideas as well.

I spend a lot of time shopping online looking for a shoe or sandal that is lightweight and has a good arch support. I have a drawer full of store bought and custom orthotics that I have collected over the years and I have finally settled on the Powerstep brand of orthotics. I wear these in my Brooks walkers and find that this the best combination for me. It has taken me years to settle on something I can tolerate for a reasonable amount of time daily.

I never thought I would pay over $100 for shoes, but now I'll spend whatever I need to for comfort. Good luck with finding something that works for you.

I also swear by Danskso. I am an ICU nurse that works a 13 hour shift, often with no breaks or lunch, so I need something that allows me to be on my feet all night without killing me.

These are spendy, but here's an idea. Go try them on at a store front like The Walking Store and see if they work for you. They have a very thick heel like the sketcher's, but they are more stable in my opinion. Anyhow...after you try them on and walk around a bit...go find the same size on ebay for a whole lot less. Many sellers offer shoes that have been tried on in stores (bid deal right?) for a whole lot less money. Sometimes you can find used ones with tons of life left in them for pennies on the dollar. Or try the Nordstom Rack. You can get them half price there. Also...I have some pairs that I have had for 10...yes..10 years. And they still look great. They are indestructible.

Clark's make a good shoe as well. I am lucky enough to still be able to wear flip flops, but they pretty much have to be Minnetonka's or Clarks Bendables (with the extra thick sole). Also spendy...but again...ebay saves my cheap butt time and time again.

Try 'em on elsewhere...and buy 'em on ebay. Works for me. I have enough shoes to sink a battleship, and this is how I get them.

Rnme2tc,

I have lots of friends that wear Alegrias. They love them. I have pretty high arches and seem to need the support of Danskos. They are heavy though, which is a bummer. I love the idea of being able to change out the footbed. What a novel idea. I shall have to give these a second look, or try them for my husband (also an ICU nurse). Thanks