Having been pregnant four times now (currently due in July), I can honestly say I have been through my fair share of maternity shoes. Everything from flip flops to high heels to sandals and tennis shoes – I have seen and worn them all. But let’s be realistic: You’re pregnant. You need comfortable maternity shoes. By your fifth or sixth month, give or take a few weeks, you will no longer be able to lift your leg to tie shoes the way you use to. So you need to find something practical, but something that will work with your wardrobe.
Of course, not all pregnant women are at home mothers and not all walk barefoot in the kitchen, as the saying goes. So it is noteworthy to mention that comfortable work shoes and tennis shoes are needed. Just make sure that the work shoes ARE comfortable (you’ll no longer need to buy a high heel, but a low heel) and appropriate and that your tennis shoes are slip-on shoes or have Velcro to secure them onto your foot.
It’s nice to find great shoes that work with your job and look good at the gym, but by far the most comfortable maternity shoe that you will truly every wear is the slip on. The cushioned slip on. It won’t only be comfortable, but will make your life as a pregnant woman ten times easier. I have tied the shoe laces that will never be centered (unless someone else ties them for me) and worn the high heels that kill my back. Take it from the mother of almost four boys that a good, durable slip-on shoe is the best any pregnant woman can ask for.
You don’t need a ton of money either to buy slip-on shoes. My first pair is definitely outdated and has long since gone the way of the garbage, but I only spent about $17 dollars at Payless Shoe Source and they lasted almost two years. They worked in every season except the summer. They were stylish, at least a style I liked, and were manageable and made my feet feel like they were walking on a cushion of air.
I don’t recommend any one pair of slip on shoes. Everyone has different financial abilities when it comes to purchasing shoes and everyone’s taste is different. My recommendation is to shop around until you find something you really, really like. If you have any doubt about the shoes – DON’T BUY THEM. I highly recommend avoiding flip flops, except for around the house. They don’t offer much support and your feet will be numb by the time you get home.
A few slip on shoes that are the best for comfort can be found at www.standingcomfort.com or any shoe store that sells shoes especially for employees who are on their feet all day, such as nurses, restaurant workers, etc. Naturalizer is also a great brand to look at for comfort shoes that will last. These may be pricey shoes, but if you are planning on having more children they may just be worth the cost. I would recommend buying two pairs in case one goes missing (things that happen when you have kids).
For style there is one place I really love to shop that is somewhat pricey, but won’t break the bank and that is www.piperlime.com. Ordering is easy and their sales prices are great. They have amazing style and sell some of the top brands. They even have a category in their online menu: “comfort”. How much easier could it be to find what you’re looking for?
For price: Payless Shoe Source. Let’s face it: Kids cost money and you’ll need to save every penny you have. OK, it’s not that dramatic, but it’s good to be sensible when you’re on a fixed and/or tight budget. Payless is not what it use to be. It has style and flair now. While every store is different and you may have to search a bit to find what you’re looking for, you could end up saving over $50 for shoes that are just as comfortable and stylish.
Take it from someone who knows: Comfortable maternity shoes are a must-have and a must-buy before your fifth month of pregnancy. Slip-on shoes are the way to go when you’re carrying a little bundle of joy inside that big beautiful belly of yours! So get something you’ll love to look at, be seen in and wear. Be picky on this one – your feet will thank you for it later.
