My family was paycheck to paycheck BUT, the one thing that was stressed was to buy good shoes! As children, we wore Stride Rites. Good shoes give you a lifetime of good foot health. I do not have any feet issues. I still fork out the $$$ for good, quality shoes. No "payless" for my feet! comfort and support is key.
Realize that shoes manufacturers are having them produced cheaply. Clarks used to be a bRand made in England....no more. And the quality is lacking now. I used to be a Clarks junky...no more. I am willing to pay more for the better quality but I expect better quality. Been buying Alegria, Sperry. Sketchers is my fav walking shoe. Love my Dansko Sofia sandals. (Not much incline)
my doctor told me not wear high heels anymore (i am in my 50's) . I had to laugh...have not bought "heels" in years! The older I get, the closer to the ground I want to be.
sandy