MBT vs. Sketchers Shape-Ups

I couldn't decide which one to get. The MBT was specifically made to address pain on the lower back and joints while the Sketchers Shape-Ups was made to increase the effectiveness of fitness walking.

So I got both and tried them on for a day. The MBT I wore for approximately 8 hours at work and while shopping afterward. I like how it seems to propel me forward as I walk, makes me stand taller just to keep blanced and generally, relieved lower back pressure. At the end of the day, I also felt the existence of muscles in the inner thigh area which never existed before! After 8 hours, I was tired on my feet though. The website does suggest gradually increasing the length of wear until one is used to it.

The Sketchers, because they were made for fitness walking, I took to the street instead of my favorite running/walking shoes, Brooks Adrenaline. My route usually takes me 40 minutes to complete by the way. Well, I must say, just like MBT, it propelled me forward, making me feel like I was walking faster, taking quicker steps. My heart rate monitor backed up how I felt by showing I burned more calories than I usually did walking the same distance. I also felt my butt muscles working more as I walked. The Sketchers' propelling motion was not as definitive as MBT though, after all, Sketchers Shape-Ups is more cushion-y and the shape of the sole is less steep too.

The Sketchers Shape-Ups would have been my only choice because of the comfort. It has a wider toe box and softer footbed. However, its styles are all very sporty/casual (even the Mary Janes which I got looks like rubber shoes!) None would be appropriate for work.

So it seems that the best recourse would be to keep both -- the MBT to wear to work and the Sketchers to wear on my daily walks.

I just hope that they both live up to their claim of lessening lower back pressure. Sketchers Shape-Ups cost $99 and the MBT was on sale for $130 (65% off the original price!).

If they do what they claim, they will both be work every penny.