Auri Gulfstream Shoe : The Right Step

I admit, I'm quick to judge a pair of shoes. I have specific foot needs, and I don't like to waste time with shoes that won't work for me.

So, when I first saw Auri's Gulf Stream Shoe, I thought, "there's a nice urban sneaker, but not for me." I have old, cranky feet that prefer heavy, thick-soled shoes, and the Gulf Stream is lightweight and thin-soled. Still, I was game to try a pair because I liked the simple design and the funky-looking soles.

As soon as I slipped them on, I found a few more things to like: the wide width, the leather footbeds with gel cushioning under the heel and forefoot areas and a stable heel-to-arch zone, and the fact that I could remove the insoles and replacement with my full-length orthotics.

I thought I'd just wear them around the house for a few days to see how they felt. I was still sure the Gulf Stream wasn't an every day shoe for me because of my bum foot. Then I got busy; I had errands to run and people to see, and before I knew it I'd been wearing them every day, all day for a few weeks. I even wore them during a long afternoon at a trade show. They weren't just slipper shoes or driving shoes, I could be on my feet in them all day in spite of my bad foot. A nice surprise.

The Auri sole is made out of leather that wraps from side to side, with a slightly raised grid of polyurethane on top (actually, on the bottom). The combo makes the Gulf Stream a flexible shoe that still has enough stability to keep old feet happy - even after a lot of walking.

Another nice thing about this shoe. It's lined with Outlast fabric, a wicking material designed to regulate temperature. Cool. Not that I have a problem with smelly feet, but if you do, you'll be happy to know that the Outlast material is also anti-microbial.

The Gulf Stream is one of many street styles in Auri's Gen-2 Collection. Available in black and brown, men's sizes. Starting in Feb 2010, Auri will be carrying women's shoes, too.

Bottom Line: Don't let its simple looks fool you. There's a lot of technology in the Gulf Stream. Plus - it's all leather, sporty, simple, and great for stepping out and about.--E.S. (Dec 09)

BUY ONLINE : $175.95 click here to shop

Manufacturer's Site: www.aurifootwear.com

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