Background: My feet were never the same after my homeless adventure found me on death's doorstep. During my lengthy recovery, my feet were swelled and numb for over two months. Unknown to myself, or the medical professionals, as the swelling subsided the tendons in my toes contracted, the cartilage in the joints dissipated causing the bones to fuse. I now have 'hammer toes' in the six middle digits on each foot and require prescription orthotics under my damaged feet to be able to stand and walk functionally. Aside from the constant pain, I can no longer run, jump, weightlift squat, or any other explosive movements with my feet.
Situation: Having such deformed feet, I found it difficult to purchase footwear 'off the shelf' and explored having high quality custom made boots to accommodate my unique feet. It was a total debacle and I probably ended up doing more damage to my feet as a result of my intense desire to wear high quality boots.
Solution: I commenced my search for accommodating footwear with the idea that I would probably require 'diabetic' footwear for my feet. The last time I looked into 'diabetic' footwear the choice was between a brown or black leather velcro-closure 'sneaker' type shoe that was more for comfort around the house than ruggedness for outdoor exploration. Then I came across ICS Shoes and my expectations were completely annihilated. They offered rugged hiking/work footwear in a variety of styles in extra-extra wide sizes and greater depth to accommodate orthotics. Needless to say, this is EXACTLY what I was searching for.
With the above in mind I wholeheartedly endorse the product:
Propet Cliff Walker M3188 Men's Diabetic 4" Casual Boot - Extra Depth for Orthotics
It is stylish, rugged, comfortable and adequately accommodates my prescription orthotics. Unfortunately, I needed to size up to a 6E width so I only wore these boots for a short time until I could order and receive a 6E width in another style since these were only offered up to 5E width. I would have ordered these if they were offered in 6E width.
I cannot adequately express my gratitude to ICS Customer Support for all their help in assisting me with the proper footwear for my needs. I originally ordered two pairs of these in 5E width. I was only sent one pair which ended up being a blessing in disguise. I emailed Customer Support explaining the situation and if it were possible to cancel my second pair and order another style in a 6E width. The different style was eleven dollars more and requested they charge my card on file to make up the difference. Not only did Customer Service comply with my request but did not charge me the eleven dollars because it was their mistake for not sending me the two pair I originally ordered. INCREDIBLE!
Needless to say, as long as I can find accommodating foot ware from their inventory, they have a customer for life. I cannot ENTHUSIASTICALLY recommend ICS Shoes enough to those of us with unique foot ware requirements.
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