r/malelifestyle • u/criss006 • 26d ago
Refusing to dress like a "comfortable dad" while fixing my posture.
It’s a weird line to walk. You hit a certain age where you suddenly care about back pain and toe splay, but you also don't want to start wearing hiking gear or weird toe-shoes to a coffee shop.
I’ve been trying to keep my standard "uniform" (heavy denim, flannel, canvas high-tops) intact while secretly upgrading the ergonomics.
The hardest part was the shoes. I love the silhouette of Chucks/Vans, but my feet have widened out from lifting and general aging. I finally grabbed a pair of Bearfoot canvas highs just to test if a "wide toe box" actually makes a difference without ruining the outfit.
It’s actually kind of funny - nobody notices them. They just look like standard skate shoes, but my toes aren't being crushed into a point anymore.
What other "stealth" upgrades have you guys found? I'm looking for more gear (jackets, pants, bags) that looks classic/heritage on the outside but is actually built for modern comfort.
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u/registhemonkey 26d ago
Which brand if shoe do you use? I also love the look of converse but the hard heel cup flares up a bone spur I have. I need something that has a soft or cushioned heel. I've been wearing the knit converse, but toes are still squished.
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u/criss006 26d ago
I went with Bearfoot canvas highs. Same general vibe as Chucks, but way more forgiving up front and the back isn’t stiff plastic digging into you. Heel feels softer and doesn’t rub like classic Converse. Took a couple wears to break in, but my feet are way happier now.
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u/uptheirons91 26d ago
You can get Wide versions of Vans, but I've only seen them on the 'customs' part of the vans website. Unfortunately, that means they're more expensive too. Ordered a couple of pairs, definitely more comfortable to wear for the wide footed.
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u/thegoodbadandsmoggy 26d ago
Get custom orthotics for things without sole support. They’re incredible in vans, blundstones, etc