When Pandere offered to send me samples of their expandable shoes, I was thrilled because, as a woman over 50, my feet have become more uncomfortable with age. Aching arches, sore heels, and occasional swelling are all part of growing older. I need comfortable shoes that fit and adjust to whatever my feet decide to torture me within any given day.
The company was founded by a woman named Laura. She had lymphedema which is a condition in the feet that causes swelling. Pandere shoes also work for those with swelling from pregnancy, diabetes, edema, and bunions.
The problem with most shoes designed for older people with swelling feet is that they can be chunky and unattractive. It’s exciting to find expandable shoes that are stylish as well as functional.
The Barista Shoe
I ordered two styles to try on. The Barista Shoe caught my eye immediately. This style is ingeniously crafted with soft durable suede leather and stretchy neoprene. I can slip them on without untying them and they provide arch support.
The memory foam on the sole of the Barista felt immediately comfortable as soon as I slipped them on. They’re supportive enough to wear without orthotics and the rubber bottoms are slip-proof which is important for anyone over 50 who wants to avoid a fall at all costs.
Pandere shoes are made in Portugal with European styling. They aren’t clunky at all and they will look chic with most casual wear.
The Barista Shoe comes in four colors; Slate Grey, Classic Black, Cool Blue, and Burgundy. I chose Burgundy because I almost always go with black and wanted something that would stand out for a change. I was happy I did as they are truly lovely and unique. I would be proud to wear them anywhere.
The Neo Shoe
My second selection was the Neo Shoe. It has ankle support with a Velcro strap and doesn’t crunch my arches like some other shoes do. This style only comes in black and doesn’t look dorky like some Velcro shoes I’ve seen.
The Neo, like the Barista, is made with stretch neoprene and has memory foam soles with anti-slip rubber bottoms. It’s an “easy to slip on” shoe that’s perfect to wear on an airplane for two reasons. You can easily take them off when you go through security at the airport. If your feet swell during the flight, they will expand with you.
Pandere shoes need no breaking in
I typically wear shoes for at least a week before they’re broken in enough to go on a long walk without getting blisters. You don’t have to do that with Pandere shoes. Because they’re expandable they’re comfortable right out the gate so you don’t have to worry about aching feet or blisters.
The downside
Pandere Shoes don’t come in half sizes at this time. I wear 8.5 and they sent me a size 9. I was a little worried they’d be too large, but they seem to fit fine. The fact that they are expandable is probably a factor. It’s recommended that you purchase one size larger if you wear a half-size.
Be aware that the support on the sides feels a little loose but the soles are sturdy and resist skidding. However, if your feet are swollen, they are perfect.
Why you should give them a try
At the time I wrote this review Pandere Shoes had a limited number of styles but they are constantly adding more. Their products are only available online for now and at one retail store in New York.
If you have feet that swell from time to time, as many older people do, they are a stylish solution. Pandere Shoes will adjust to any foot issue whether it’s swelling, corns, or bone spurs.
Make sure to visit their website here.
Pandere Shoes sent me two pairs of shoes to try on. However, my opinion is my own.
Do you have swelling feet? Please leave a comment below.
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