Flight Attendant Approved Shoes

When I went into flight attendant training, I bought a beautiful pair of comfortable pumps. They were kind of pricey, but I did my research; they were made by a trusted, quality brand (Clarks) and all the online reviews said they were super comfy. However, this turned out to be only partially true.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret:

Flight Attendant feet do not just need a shoe that is comfy for "being on your feet all day"

Flight Attendant feet do not just need a shoe that allows you to walk briskly.

Flight Attendant feet do not just need a shoe that looks good with your uniform.

Flight Attendant feet do not just need a shoe that is in compliance with regulations.

rather:

Flight Attendant feet need a shoe that cushions the foot as your body expands and contracts with the pressure of ascending and descending thousands of feet several times a day in a pressurized cabin.

If you've been a flight attendant for awhile, you'll understand this phenomenon. Your shoes will seem stretched like they were worn by someone 2 sizes larger than you. Your body will feel kind of bloated and your toes will be red and sore.

It's not from the 15 minutes or so that you served drinks, or stood there and did the safety demo. It's the pressure, I tell you!

So, do yourself a big favor and save some time, money and a great deal of foot/leg/lower back pain and buy these shoes!!!

[caption id="attachment_495" align="alignnone" width="440"] image courtesy Dansko.com[/caption]

I was skeptical at first. I thought these Dansko clogs were kind of ugly—like an old lady shoe. I affectionately call these clogs my "Dutch Lesbian" shoes. But now, I'm a believer!

Now I am one of the many ranks of flight attendants who swear by this shoe: it is the most comfortable thing you will ever walk in.  They are used by professionals who stand on their feet for hours at a time—nurses, chefs, waiters, etc. They all love them!

But in addition to being super comfortable on the ground, they move with the natural movement of the foot. This is a very big deal.

In other words, your foot expands, the shoe expands with it. The material and shape of the shoe is extremely flexible. You will thank me for this advice. Forget how they look—imagine yourself with sore tired (but fabulously shod) heels, and ask yourself if its worth the pain.

I've come to the conclusion that any shoe, no matter how comfortable they swear it is, that puts the majority of your weight on the ball of your foot is no bueno. It will be painful. Get the clogs, and nix your vanity. They will be more beautiful than you could imagine when your feet aren't aching like your joints aged 7 decades while in the air.

The best news?

These Dansko shoes typically run $120 in stores (believe me, I did the research for the best deals) but through your airline, you can save big $$$ with a company discount. I bought my shoes for about $73.  That's over 60% off, people!  They last forever, too. I flew with a lady who had owned hers for 10 years, and they were still in great shape! Consider it an investment in you! Check out your company discounts page. Mine had a direct link to the online store, but you may have to print out the discount form and take it to your local Nordstrom, Belk, wherever they're sold in your area. It's absolutely worth it, trust me. They are the most comfortable shoes you'll ever own. And no, I am not getting paid by Dankso to say this. Experience has made me wise!!!