Our Doors Are Open...Come on In!

It might be hard to believe but we're almost through May already and June is right around the corner. Summer is (almost) here and after the weekend we just had, I think it's safe to say the nice weather and sunshine are here to stay!

One of the best things about summer in Winnipeg is there's so much to do and see! This weekend coming up we're part of an annual event in Downtown Winnipeg that showcases more than 80 of the city's finest sites, architecture, and history. Doors Open Winnipeg is a free event that takes place on May 30th and 31st. You are invited to come downtown to participate in tours, live music, raffles, and of course the fantastic food and beverage vendors.

There are a couple of ways Canadian Footwear is taking part in the event this year. There is a raffle that takes place over the two days where you can purchase tickets to win fantastic prizes. We have donated a pair of Merrell shoes (courtesy of Merrell) for you to win! If you are the winner of this prize, you can come into our store and pick out a pair worth up to $160!

If you're around the downtown area taking part in the free events, we're also giving out $20 coupons to use in our store! These can be used on a purchase of $100 or more on regular priced merchandise. Spot one of the reps from Doors Open handing them out over the weekend!

Finally, we've made up a special prize basket for our social media followers! If you check out our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram later this week you'll see a game that we're doing over the weekend and anyone can participate! All you have to do is come into our store to pick up a copy on Saturday or Sunday, finish it, and bring it back to our downtown store by Sunday May 31st at 5PM. If you successfully complete the game, you'll be entered to win our prize basket filled with some sweet goodies! We'll give you a hint....

But you'll have to come down to our store next weekend to figure out what it is! 

We hope to see you out and about this weekend! Be sure to follow us on social media for the latest updates and promotions on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Say No To Flip-Flops and Yes To Comfort!

It seems the weather has taken a little turn on us. We had a glimpse of summer and hopefully it's May showers bring June flowers. But it's okay, because we know that summer is coming and that with summer means sunshine and sandals!

As with any type of shoe, sandals come in many different styles, sizes, colours, brands, and widths. They usually range in price from $1 to anywhere in the $1000's for designer sandals. The problem is that a lot of people choose style over stability/comfort in their summer footwear. They choose what's quick and easy to slip on and slip off if they're running out to the beach or the park.

The problem with summer is that we often look at what's cute or stylish as opposed to what's supportive and cushioning. Flip-flops are the easiest go-to footwear because it takes less than 3 seconds to put them on and take them off, and they pretty much go with whatever you're wearing.

Recently Canadian Certified Pedorthist Katrina Lammers explains why you shouldn't choose flip-flops unless you're heading to the beach.

See her clip here.

A lot of summer sandals are very flat which you might think is more comfortable, but they lack arch support and comfort for your foot. So if you're wearing them for an extended period of time, your feet tend to get more sore as the day goes on. There's no padding or heel cup which can lead to your muscles overworking, or getting blisters, corns, etc.

There are a few things you should look for when buying your summer sandals this year:

1) Do They Fit Right?

A lot of people will find a shoe they absolutely love, and even if it's a tiny bit small or a tiny bit big they'll buy it anyway. It's very important to make sure you are measured every time you buy shoes, and that you buy the size that fits YOU.

2) Is There Arch Support?

The flatter your sandals, the more pain you're going to experience with wear. Good arch support prevents things like pain, cramps, or muscle fatigue. Sandals that have supportive mid-soles cushion your foot and support the arch which help prolong comfort in your feet.

3) Are You Dressed for the Right Activity?

There are many different types of sandals. Everything from hikers to walking sandals to Birkenstock's and fashion sandals. It is important that you are wearing the right sandal for the activity you're doing. So you'd never wear a fashion sandal if you're on a hike through the park. And remember, sandals are not the proper footwear for running.

If you have any other questions about sandals, our fit experts in store are always happy to answer them. Whether you're searching for sandals for yourself, your spouse or your kids, bring everyone down! We have many brands in store to fit everyone in the family! Shop on-line at canadianfootwear.com.