Functional footwear is the “big thing” of the past few years with some styles hitting the mark and others … not so much. The companies who make them claim that this type of footwear improves balance, body alignment and does a number on your bum. I’m not convinced about the fabulous effects these shoes will have on any one’s backside, but I do see how they can benefit one’s balance and I’ve heard from friends that they’re back pain was reduced with a pair of functional footwear. I’ve tried every shoe from Reebok EasyTone, Skechers Shape-ups, Trim Treads, Flojos and more – you can find all of those reviews by clicking on the name you’re interested in. The latest brand I’ve sampled is RYN.
The RYN shoes I received are the black with pink sandals above and I have to say … they’re less weird then most! I don’t mean that as a back-handed compliment, but the fact of the matter is that some styles make folks look like Frankenstein. No one wants that, and with these RYN sandals … you won’t get that. The sole is a little high to support it’s “rocker sole technology”, but over all, I don’t think I’ve received any confused looks or comments while wearing them. The other nice thing about them is that they feel pretty normal too. In fact, I’ve found them comparable in feel to my old pair of Teva’s. Nice, eh?
My legs haven’t become sore while wearing these RYN sandals, but I’m in pretty good shape. I imagine that someone who WASN’T a fitness professional, may end a long day of wearing these things with a bit of calf fatigue or pain. Overall, I think RYN did a pretty nice job combining fashion, feel and function with these summer shoes. This brand would be one of my favorites so far. The only obstacle to everyone having RYN shoes is the price. The cost of a pair ranges from $245 – $300.