SAS tennis shoes Women

SAS Free Time Women's Walking Shoe. Wendy Bumgardner © 2006

About.com Rating

SAS Shoes have been a favorite of volkssport walkers since the 1980's. These comfort shoes are very well cushioned and flexible. They were my personal favorite when I had a stand-up job. They were the only shoes I could wear without having foot pain at the end of the day. However, I didn't use them for fitness walking. The drawbacks for me were the lacing system, which does not give a good custom fit, and the full leather uppers keep my feet too hot.

Where to Find SAS Shoes

SAS Shoemakers forbids online sales. You can obtain a list of local retailers and a catalog of styles from the SAS Shoemakers web site. SAS encourages you to call, fax, or mail them for information. Their phone number is 877-782-7463. You can also fill out a form to have a catalog and local retailer list emailed to you. they have a good profile with a low heel, flexibility, and cushioning. Many long time walkers swear by these shoes.

Best Features of the SAS Free Time

• Widths: Slim, Narrow, Medium, Wide, Wide/Wide. WWW width available in black.
• Sizes: 6-12 for slim and narrow, 4-12 for medium, 5-12 for wide and wide/wide.

• Cushioning: I rate this shoe tops for cushioning for standing and slow walking, such as when touring or shopping.
• Toe Box: SAS walking shoes have added depth in the forefoot with lots of toe room. The rounded toe box gives excellent wiggle room for toes.
• Insole: Removable insole, you can replace it with your own choice or an orthotic.
• Colors: Suitable for wearing with slacks: white, bone, mocha, teak, navy, black, and also two Nubuck styles in taupe and charcoal.

Room for Improvement

• Soles Too Smooth: The soles are pebbled but not ridged like exercise shoes. Several SAS wearers complained of slipping with them.
• Hot Feet: The shoes are not very breathable and many walkers experience hot feet with them. Sweaty feet lead to more blisters.
• Lacing System: The lacing system is fine for comfort shoes, but it is inadequate to getting a good fit when you are using them as fitness walking shoes.

SAS Time Out Men's Walking Shoe

The men's SAS Time Out shoes are favored by many walkers. For many long-time wearers, they are the only walking shoe they ever want. They have the same features as the women's Free Time, and the same drawbacks.

A complaint by more than one wearer is that the sole is too smooth and lacks traction ridges, which increases risks of slips vs. a running shoe or fitness walking shoe.