favourites

It's difficult to have this allergy for a number of reasons. It SUCKS to have itchy feet, it's expensive to replace all of your shoes, socks, and pantyhose, and you feel like you're going to have dowdy old lady shoes or crazy hippie shoes made only out of hemp. Don't fear! There are some brands out there that are stylish, fun, comfortable, and most importantly, won't make your feet itchy!

I've bought a lot of shoes in the past three years. I'm on my feet all day and try to switch my shoes often. I also LOVE shoes. It was quite the blow when I had to get rid of all of my shoes. But now I buy better quality shoes, and they are actually cute and more comfortable! I thought it might help to run down a few of my favourite shoes to give you an idea of what's out there.

My favourite shoes:

I own a LOT of Gabor shoes. They are awesome because they have comfortable tennis style shoes that resemble converse but they are all leather. They have classic pumps in different styles, funky fashion shoes, tall and short boots, ballet flats, etc. They come in a variety of styles, colours, and with different decoration like bows, studs, and rhinestones. I love that I feel great in these shoes because they look stylish, young, professional, and they are comfortable because they are usually lined with leather and it is stitched. (The Gabor fall/winter preview just came out, so now I have to fight the urge to shoe shop!)

My Kamik rain boots are AWESOME! They are waterproof, fitted to my foot and not too loose like other rain boots, and come in fun patterns. They help me protect my other shoes because I will wear these and switch into my shoes when I get to work. They are also made in Canada! So I love that!

My Newton running shoes allow me to work out and jog. They are also great because I've learned to midsole run because they are a midsole running shoe which is better for one's joints.

I have two pairs of winter boots from Ugg. I have their classic tall sheepskin boots and the Adirondack style which I can use to go snowshoeing. They are comfortable and keep my feet toasty.

Birkenstocks rule for summer! I also wear them around my house often if I've been on my feet in high heels all day because they are supportive.

Sanuk skimmers are great for kayaking because they dry easily.

Those are my favourites!

Newtons are no longer safe!  check out TEVA

Shoe Protector spray

I believe, despite the fact that I have no confirmation of this because they wouldn't/couldn't help me, that the SoftMoc WSP 365 Leather and Fabric Protector contains Thiuram. I think this acutally triggered my allergy because I developed it shortly after spraying most of my shoes with it.

I have not had a problem using the Ugg brand of shoe protector on my classic Ugg sheepskin boots, and they said they don't use it, but I'm always apprehensive so I don't protect my other shoes with this spray, just my winter boots.

Leather shoes are easier. I use Po-Zu edible shoe cream. It's made from coconut. It's awesome! Plus, you can eat it! I figure that if I can eat it, then my feet won't be allergic (unless you're allergic to coconuts) http://po-zu.com/eu/coconut/edible-shoe-cream-page

Europe - stricter chemical controls

Europe is the best! Here in North America, we are almost completely unprotected by government legislation from chemicals. This ranges from shoes to health and wellness products. As of the US has only banned 8 chemicals for use in cosmetics; whereas Switzerland has banned over 1100. Imagine what's allowed in shoes made by American companies! When in doubt, ask a European shoe company!

Shipping and Duties

As you've probably realized by now, buying thiuram free shoes is challenging and expensive. Often, you're buying brands from companies in other countries that you have to import from and pay customs. This gets pricey. Supposedly there is a way around this if you explain to customs officials you can get it waived. I've never had success with this. However, I did pay for shoes that were the wrong size and had to return them. I pursued the fees and got the money back from Canadian customs.

Other ideas:

1) Check the "Gift" box when purchasing shoes online; sometimes you don't have to pay customs.

2)Ask people who are travelling to buy a pair of shoes for you and bring them to you to save you shipping

3) Use shoe shopping in Europe as an excuse for travelling :) This is my future goal!!

TIPS for preventing contamination

1. If you discover you have this allergy, THROW OUT all of your socks and pantyhose when you start to accumulate new shoes. You cannot wash the chemical out of socks no matter how frequently you wash them and you will simply contaminate your new shoes.

2. Be a crazy person! Don't let other people wear your shoes. Tell everyone you know that they can't even try them on!

3. Keep your shoes separate from everyone else's. I have an ikea closet with a shoe rack specifically for this reason.

4. If you are buying shoes in a store, ask for the newest pair or a pair other people haven't tried on. That way you run less risk of a sweaty-footed person contaminating your thiuram-free shoes via their socks.

I've had a reaction to Under Armour. Despite the fact they told me they were ok, I suggest forgoing the brand unless you like the risk.