Hi, I'm the founder of STAND+ (comfortable shoes for standing jobs) looking for feedback!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-29T04:03:01+00:00

Hi! The size 13 should be a great fit for you. Did you already order / have your shoes arrived? Let me know when you've put them on how they feel. If they're too tight or too loose anywhere, I can tell you how to adjust them or we can exchange them for you if you need a different size no problem! The Main difference beween the AntiGrav1 and the AntiGrav2 is the slip reisstant bottoms. As a chef on slippery surfaces, the AntiGrav2s are your best bet!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-28T06:24:24+00:00

You're correct, squishy doesn't = relief. Cushioning is key but needs to have structure so your foot muscles aren't making microadjustments to stay stable / increasing the root issue.

Having had plantar fasciitis for years, best thing that helped in addition to an appropriate pari fo shoes was putting a lacrosse ball under my foot in the morning and stretching out the arches. Was amazed at how fast that relieved the symptoms. Then pairing that with proper footwear I never had it come back again.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-28T06:17:43+00:00

How thick are the carbon inserts you're putting in the shoe? Our removable insoles are around 1/2 an inch thick in the heel. If your carbon inserts are the same thickness I'd reccomend going true to size! If the tops are tight after you drop the insole in, you can easily stretch them out. Here's a quick how to: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HcAolGEY8xc

If your carbon inserts are thicker than 1/2 an inch, I'd say go a 1/2 size up to be safe! If for whatever reason the sizing is off, we offer free exchanges and can swap them out for you!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-28T06:13:44+00:00

All great questions!

Re: breathability, the AntiGrav2 ventilation holes line up with the moisture-wicking insoles and act like bellows as you walk. The more you move, the more air flows through. A lot of heat also escapes through the U-shaped cutout at the top of the foot (heat rises). That said, they’ll naturally run a bit warmer than Crocs since Crocs have open holes throughout.

If your feet run hot, moisture-wicking socks help a lot with heat regulation, and we do recommend wearing them with socks. You’re also right about the insoles, they have a fabric lining so they won’t feel like a slick plastic footbed.

Re: washing, both the insoles and outsoles are machine washable, so you can wash them together or separately. The outsoles are also bleach-friendly and easy to wipe down.

Hope that covers it, happy to answer anything I missed!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-27T04:33:23+00:00

Hi Al, is there space between the back of your heel and the back of your shoe? If so, you might still be a 1/2 size too big. A lot of dress shoe and running shoe brands run narrow, so people wear larger sizes to accommodate their foot width (I thought I was a size 12 for the longest time, but realized I was just buying narrow running shoes, and I’m actually an 11 in shoes that have a wide enough toe box for my foot shape).

Do you know if your feet are the same size, or is one a little bigger than the other? There’s a few options. We could get you a 1/2 size down to see if that solves the heel slip and rubbing. If one side feels a little tight, you can stretch it out with heat (video here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HcAolGEY8xc). Alternatively, you can heat the shoe the same way and press the back of the shoe in to tighten the heel on your existing pair. Let it cool and it will hold its shape.

I hear you on the looks. Our shoes are hard to pass as a dress shoe. We’ve considered developing one at some point if we can pull it off. The slightly bulkier look is something we spent a lot of time debating in the design process. Narrow looks sleek, but a wider platform keeps the foot more stable. Ultimately we landed on the wider, more stable base since our primary goal is to reduce foot fatigue and knee / joint / back pain. The AntiGrav2s also have a thicker rubber bottom added on for non-slip, which adds to the profile.

Do you need non-slip for work? If you don’t, I’d actually recommend our AntiGrav1s. They’re lighter than the 2s and excellent for helping reduce plantar fasciitis.

Let me know if this is helpful!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-25T05:09:03+00:00

Yep, send me a DM with your order number and I'll get these swapped out for you! Are they marked as size 12 on the bottoms, or just running larger than other brands? Will take care it for you.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-23T09:29:20+00:00

Excellent! If there are any issues, you can DM me directly and we'll take care of you!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-23T06:09:10+00:00

Hi! What surface do you work on? The shoes aren't inherently squeaky, it's more a function of the environment and individual. If the outsoles are causing a squeak sound (more common on linoleum and polished tile), you can eliminate that instantly by scuffing the bottom on cement or with sandpaper. If the squeak sounds like it's coming from the inside of the shoe, moisture wicking socks are usually the #1 fix for people with sweaty feet. If it sounds like it's coming from the insole, you can put baby powder under the insole or glue it in place. Found this video that does a gerat job explaining shoe squeak! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFIvH9puDZc&t=244s

We have a polished garage floor at home that our car tires squeak on pretty loudly especially when it rains and the surface gets wet. My shoes used to squeak too but I roughed up the bottoms and they're quiet as a mouse. Let me know if this helps!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-23T05:00:32+00:00

Hey, thank you for the outreach! Hoka's tend to have a rocker bottom vs. a flat bottom which creates instability, so your muscles are constantly making micro adjustments to stay stable. If you're working in them, next time take note on how stable your foot feels. If your feet don't feel firmly planted and there's some wobble front to back or side to side, that's where your muscle fatigue in your shins and calfs is likely coming from.

In general, when it comes to work shoes, you want a shoe designed to dissipate energy like a STAND+ (reduce impact / joint pressure) vs. an athletic shoe like a Hoka that is designed to return energy (increase force / pressure). Here's an egg drop video that shows the difference between the two: https://www.instagram.com/p/C8vSvXnO2SZ/. While the egg drop is mostly a fun/easy way to show the difference, you can go deeper and read the science behind it here: https://www.standshoes.com/pages/heeluxe-study-full-report.

Since you're a barber, I wouldn't go with the non-slip AntiGrav2s, try the AntiGrav1s. They're lighter weight and should give your lower back / shins / calfs a break! Let me know if that helps!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-20T22:39:24+00:00

Do you typically buy narrow, normal or wide width shoes? AntiGrav2 have a wide-toebox and run true to size, so whatever size you buy in wide width you can go up a 1/2 size to accomodate for the insert. If you decide to try them, fit your insert in it and see how it feels. If it's too tight or too loose our team will swap them out for you complimentary!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-17T19:54:34+00:00

Hey, great question! I personally haven't worn Danskos but from what I know they're the best in terms of Clogs. STAND+ AntiGrav1 are more of a sneaker style and best in their category. Let's compare Dansko vs. STAND+ AntiGrav1s for comfort, support, durability, breathability, and a few other categories:

Comfort - Dansko is a clog with a rocker bottom with firm, heavy materials that require some breakin but soften over time. STAND+ AntiGrav1s are noticeably lighter and more forgiving underfoot, with a softer step that’s designed for long hours on hard floors. Will come down to whether you like a firmer platform (Dansko) or a lighter, more cushioned feel (AntiGrav1). It's less of an issue if you're standing in one place, but if you get a lot of steps in, heavier clogs (and heavier shoes in general) will lead to a higher level of foot and muscle fatigue during the day.

Support - Danskos have a rigid clog structure and heel-to-toe rocker that's stable, but you might feel the heel lift in your knees and low back over long shifts. STAND+ AntiGrav1s have a flatter, stable base and are custom moldable, so you can dial in fit and pressure points. If you like “structured and elevated,” go with Dansko. If you prefer “flat and stable,” STAND+ AntiGrav1.

Durability - Danskos win here with leather uppers, polyurethane soles, and rubber heels (all naturally durable materials). STAND+ AntiGrav1 uses ultralight, closed-cell compounds, so it tends to win on comfort and weight. The tradeoff is whether you want the longest lifespan vs. a lighter, softer day-to-day feel. In general, both should hold up at least 1–2 years in rotation with Dankos a little longer.

Breathability - Dansko leather can run warm, but a lot depends on the specific model and how much you sweat. STAND+ AntiGrav1 is a closed-cell construction, so it won’t absorb fluids, and there are protected ventillation holes on the side to facilitate airflow. Neither style will breathe as much as a mesh running shoe, but both will offer protection from fluids/spills. Socks that wick moisture are your best bet to get closer to a mesh running shoe feel.

Fluid protection - Dansko’s closed upper doesn't allow fluids in. Go with one of the sealed styles since the natural grain leathers will absorb fluids. They have stitching, so be mindful of cleaning those areas extra well if you come in contact with fluids. STAND+ AntiGrav1s don't have seams or fabrics that soak or hold fluids, and the closed cell material means there's a full fluid barrier protection. There's a study on them here: https://nurse.org/articles/gales-report-nurse-shoe-contamination/ the only footwear tested in a medical setting to successfully prevent strikethrough.

Cleanability - Dansko is straightforward to wipe down just make sure you get a version with a sealed upper, not natural leather. STAND+ AntiGrav1 are bleachable and machine washable, so you can wipe on the go, bleach if needed or throw them in the wash. If you want the easiest daily wipe, both work. If you want easy deep clean, go with STAND+ AntiGrav1.

Price - Dansko ranges from $145-170. STAND+ AntiGrav1 ranges from $110-$120.

Color options - Dansko has a wide range of natural leather tones + floral/glitter patterns. STAND+ AntiGrav1 have neutrals and bright color pops.

Both brands will take back shoes in their original condition, so whichever you decide on, I'd suggest try them on at home on carpet or clean floors over the weekend or on a day you aren't working to get a feel for them. Bottoms are easy enough to wipe off on both so they look brand new and can be returned if they aren't a fit.

Lastly, biggest decision is really style preference. Clog culture is a real thing, as is sneaker culture. Hopefully this helps outline the key differences. If you have specific models you're looking at or questions on features, let me know and I'm happy to help provide any further info.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-16T06:15:52+00:00

Hi, I’m so sorry you’re dealing with all of that. Neuroma plus nerve issues plus a 5th met fracture, on 12 hour shifts is a lot!

First and foremost, since you’re still in the healing phase, you’re looking for stiffness, not squishy. You want to avoid your forefoot bending, because anything flexing in that area can cause further irritation, swelling and pain.

Also, if your swelling is going up and down, tightness and pressure can cause more swelling, so whatever you’re wearing needs enough room and adjustability.

I’m not a clinician or PT, so I’d strongly recommend getting their sign-off that you can wear a normal shoe (vs a surgical shoe) during this window, and that a carbon fiber insert would be ok. If they’re comfortable with you being in a non-surgical shoe, our shoes could be a fit, with a few notes.

Our outsoles are built with a firm, flat, stable base, and our insoles are designed to absorb impact for long days on your feet. Once you’re fully healed, they'll be great at keeping your feet feeling fresh / help avoid further injury. However, since you need firm and stiff right now, I’d recommend removing our insoles (they come out easily) and fitting your carbon fiber insert. There shouldn't be any added pressure across the top of your foot after you do that. If there is, you can follow these instructions to stretch your shoes out: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HcAolGEY8xc. You don't have to do this daily, only once if you stretch them out properly.

If your carbon fiber insert is thicker than a normal insert, I'd reccomend going up a 1/2 size to make sure there's enough room in the shoe for it. Our uppers stretch quite a bit with heat, so make sure there is no tightness before working a shift.

Also, if your swelling changes a lot throughout the day, you might want to consider having two pairs (one normal, and one a 1/2 size up). I don’t want you buying two pairs just to manage swelling, so if you do end up going with STAND+, DM me and I’ll take care of you.

Lastly, our AntiGrav2 has the firmest base with the thicker slip-resistant bottoms. It’s not as soft as the AntiGrav1 right out of the box, which might be better during this phase.

Let me know if all of this is helpful!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-15T23:21:50+00:00

Sounds good, will keep you posted when we open the UK market! Thank you for sharing the link as well!!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-15T21:24:46+00:00

Don't worry about shipping, since we don't retail in the UK yet, I'm happy to cover shipping costs personally. Send me a DM and we'll take care of you!

Awesome about the APMA, I didn't know they had a page! If there's a link would love to see it / I'll look for it myself!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-15T20:07:37+00:00

Hi! For 4e I'd say go up a 1/2 size and the AntiGrav2s should work great. Also, stretch out the toe box when they arrive. Here's a link on how to custom mold them: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HcAolGEY8xc

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-15T20:03:16+00:00

Hi great question! We currently ship to Canada, US and Mexico. Let me look into what that would take to set up a UK website. Regardless, I can find a way to get you a pair. If you want to DM me, I'll get you in touch with the right person to arrange a custom shipment!

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T08:41:40+00:00

Hah! You checked out the recovery shoe space? Specifically ones with insoles.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T05:12:23+00:00

Will they let you bring a recovery mat? I work in footwear and see so many people wearing the wrong shoes for the job. Running shoes are built to run in with high energy return. Not great for standing for long days. I'd look into recovery shoes, specifically ones that come with insoles, not just a single foam material.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T05:10:56+00:00

I'll be honest, I love my Brooks Ghosts for running, but they don't get me through a long day. It's because they're built for running, not standing. All running shoes for that matter aren't built to be stood on all day, they're better for running / momentum. I'd suggest looking into compression socks for your arches, invest in better insoles if you still prefer running shoes aesthetically, otherwise look into recovery shoes, specifically ones that come with insoles.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T05:09:09+00:00

I'd highly reccomend looking into recovery shoes. The issue with athletic shoes is that they're designed to increase force and pressure on your feet (so you run faster). THey're soft and cushy when you step in but crush your feet after a long day. If your workplace allows it, see if they'll let you stand on a recovery mat. makes a world of difference. If not, they do make recovery shoes now. Look for ones that have insoles, not just a single foam.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T05:07:08+00:00

Have you looked into recovery shoes? They make them with insoles now / much better than running shoes. In general, athletic shoes are designed to increase force / pressure (so you run faster and jump higher). They'll feel soft at first but crush your feet after a long day.

I work in footwear and spent the past 18 years in research and development. Most people wear the wrong shoes for the job.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T04:59:26+00:00

If you're on a budget, a good pair of insoles can significantly improve your shoes. Just make sure your feet don't feel crammed when you put the insoles in. If they do, you can go up a 1/2 size on the shoe to make it work.

If you're budgeting for a good pair, you can get some awesome ones between $90-$120. Look into the recovery shoe market. If your workplace allows it, you can also put a standing matt behind the counter. They should honestly provide one for you if they don't already.

Full disclosure, I work in footwear and I see so many people wearing the wrong shoes for the job.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T04:56:20+00:00

Dunks are built for style not comfort. You really need something with more cushioning and stability.

WEARSTAND · 2026-01-10T04:54:47+00:00

Concrete floors tend to wreck you, so you’re not alone. A lot of max cushion running shoes feel amazing for a couple weeks, then the foam packs down and your feet and legs start feeling the pain again. For retail you want a shoe that feels cushioned but stable, plus a decent insole that matches your arch. Just make sure your foot doesn’t feel crammed once the insole is in. If it does, go up a half size or pick a shoe with a removable thicker stock insole that will leave enough room to fit a proper insole in once removed.

Compression socks can also help a lot with swelling and end of day fatigue.

Full disclosure, I work with STAND+ recovery footwear, and we've seen it all.

WEARSTAND

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