Whether having wide feet is genetic or a result of standing on one's feet for years prior to taking early retirement as a baby boomer, there are now a wide selection of great looking shoes made specifically for the individual with wide feet. The selection of casual shoes, heels, athletic shoes and boots are not only available in sizes for wide feet but also in a wide variety of styles, colors and sizes.

Shoes for wide feet are no longer made in a single style. In fact, there is a wide variety of attractive and flattering shoes for all occasions and activities that are certain to be a great fit for individuals with wide feet. For the baby boomer woman looking for a sharp dress shoe for wide feet, there is an excellent collection available from Fitzwell and Gabriela Rocha. The collection offers a wide variety of pointed-toed high heels with an average heel height of 2 ¾ inches. The attractively designed shoes from Fitzwell are available in a variety of textures including gray suede, dark brown suede, gunmetal kid and black and range from $54 up to approximately $65 per pair.

For those looking for boots to fit wide feet, there are several brands that offer a variety of styles including Fitzwell and Lassen. Fitzwell makes a beautiful boot for wide feet that is available in black or brown and is made with a square toe, genuine leather upper and a 2-inch heel. This is a boot that one can wear throughout the fall and winter and is designed to be comfortable for wide feet. The retail price is approximately $57. The Lassen Beacon style boot is also a fashionable boot designed for individuals with wide feet. The ¾ length boot is available in a variety of colors for $75 per pair.

Finding a fashionable shoe designed for wide feet adds a lot of versatility to one's wardrobe as well as one's fashion look. There is a wide variety of shoes of all styles and heel heights made specifically with wide feet in mind, many of which are comfortable and affordable.

Hello again, students of the shoe encyclopedia class. Already those of you who have been keeping up have learned so much. For those of you new to the shoe encyclopedia (or a touch behind), don't forget to go back and study the previous lessons to get up to speed. In case your memory on the encyclopedia of shoes needs some jogging, the last lesson included information on RadianTex, waterproofing silicone, thermoplastic rubber and thermoplastic urethane. This time around, the shoe encyclopedia will teach you about two types of heels (the Louis heel and the kitten heel). It also will school you on the plug, as well as the brogan.

Louis Heel
The Louis heel is a high-heeled shoe that features fancy curves on the back and sides of the heel. The curve looks similar to an hourglass shape. The original Louis heel was worn by Louis XV, the inspiration for the name and style. However, today Louis heels are more commonly worn by women.

Kitten Heel
A heel that is low to the ground and tapers off into a narrow base is known as a kitten heel. These are featured in women's heels. A kitten heel can be found in both casual shoes and dressy styles. Shoes that feature a kitten heel could be sandals, strappy shoes, slide-ons, open-toed or closed. A variety of styles can feature a kitten heel.

Plug
Plug? Are we talking plumbing, like sinks and tubs? Nope, we're still on shoes. In shoe terms, a plug is not related to stopping a drain, thank goodness. Although, that certainly would make for an interesting pair of shoes. I just can't figure out what the plug would hold in - hopefully not water. No, in shoe terms, a plug refers to the center of the upper area in a moccasin.

Brogan
Also known as the brogue or the clodhopper, a brogan is a heavy shoe that is very thick. Brogan shoes can come in a wide variety of styles, ranging from tennis shoes to heels and even boots. Many heavier shoes are considered to be brogan shoes.

For men in the workplace looking for a certain degree of comfort in business clothing while moving away from other name-brand khaki pants, there is a great solution that provides comfort, ease and style. Ballin's line of men's slacks focuses on quality, comfort and perfect fit. This unique line of slacks is in fact designed to provide exceptional comfort, style and performance in a pair of dress slacks.

What makes Ballin's comfort slacks for men different from other men's slacks? Aside from the fact that they are a comfort item, some of the features of these unique, quality slacks include: double reverse pleats, front seam and rear button pockets, zipper and button-tab closure, Nan-Tex technology, COMFORT EZE construction and more.

Ballin's comfort slacks are made from 100 percent wool and require dry cleaning maintenance; however their cutting-edge technology enhances the fabrics by providing a resistance to stains, spills, creases and even static. The COMFORT EZE construction is an additional feature designed to provide comfort with movement, while providing a full range of movement that promotes confidence in the wearer's stride. Ballin's comfort slacks are available in sizes 32 to 44 and come with an unfinished inseam to allow tailoring for a perfect fit. There are also several different colors and hues from which to select, including charcoal, black and sand.

One of the most popular pairs of Ballin's comfort slacks is the Ballin Manchester Super 120's Nano Flex, which is available in the sizes and colors mentioned above. Not only are these comfort slacks a great gift item, they're also an excellent addition to any man's wardrobe. And since the slacks are sold with an unfinished inseam, not only can the recipient take advantage of the cutting-edge technology and comfort associated with the slacks, but he can enjoy a custom and personalized finish regarding the length of the slacks. In general, Ballin's comfort slacks retail for approximately $154 but can be found online for as little as $105.

Hello once more, shoe encyclopedia scholars. It is shoe time again. So grab a seat and focus your brain. The last shoe encyclopedia lesson involved information about pitch (not baseball, mind you), the athleisure shoe, a medical condition called flat foot and the practice of podiatry. This week's lesson includes RadianTex, thermoplastic rubber (T.P.R.), thermoplastic urethane (T.P.U.) and silicone. Don't forget that if you've missed any past shoe encyclopedia lessons, it is simple enough to go back and catch up at your leisure.

RadianTex
RadianTex is a type of thermal insole, which means it's great for warming the feet. In a RadianTex insole, the thermal reflection causes the warmth. This thickly padded insole is great for comfort as well as warmth. RadianTex is generally found in a variety of winter boots that are suited for colder weather and climates.

Thermoplastic Rubber (T.P.R.)
Thermoplastic rubber, or T.P.R, is one material that is very often used during the process of injection molding. It's a type of plastic that is relatively common in the construction process of shoes. If you've been following the shoe encyclopedia, you may recall a previous lesson that included information on injection molding.

Thermoplastic Urethane (T.P.U.)
Like thermoplastic rubber, thermoplastic urethane (T.P.U.) is used in the shoe manufacturing process. A common use is as a support in various running shoes. The thermoplastic urethane is generally located in the mid-foot area of the shoe. These can be running shoes in styles for both men and women. Good support is needed in running shoes, since the feet will be bearing down harder during running than they would in normal, everyday walking.

Silicone
Some might not think of shoes when hearing the term silicone. Hearing the term silicone may cause a person to think of plastic surgery. However, it is also used in the world of shoes. In fact, it's more common in shoes than one might think. Silicone is used in the waterproofing process of shoes. It's a clear, slippery polymeric substance. Many different types of shoes and boots can be treated with silicone for the purpose of waterproofing their surfaces.

Casual shoes are something that nearly every person in the United States has at least one pair of; however, the concept of casual shoes is a relatively new invention. In fact, casual footwear really didn't evolve until the mid 20th century when Hush Puppies were introduced to the American public. The concept of Hush Puppies way of life was so popular that within a couple years of their introduction, nearly ten percent of all American adults had a pair in their closet.

The History of the Hush Puppies Shoe Line
The Hush Puppies shoe line was launched in 1957 at the National Shoe Fair, which was held in Chicago. The brand's name derived from a business meeting at a local fish restaurant where the creators of the line were eating what was called a hush puppy, which is a catfish and corn fritter. The reason they decided to use this as the name of their shoes was because hush puppies were used to quiet dogs on local farms to keep them from barking, furthermore, one of the phrases used at the time to describe worn out feet was "barking dogs." Hence the name was used because the comfortable design of the shoes would quiet the wearer's "barking dogs."

The popularity of the Hush Puppies was immediate. Shoe vendors lined up to order Hush Puppies for their shoe stores. This rush for the Hush was so vigorous that the company sold their first million pairs within 30 months of launching their company. The popularity of these shoes ran far beyond American families, as celebrities also enjoyed wearing these shoes, and soon Hush Puppies became the official shoe of the "swingin' set." This included the "Rat Pack" and Warren Beatty.

New Technology Launched by Hush Puppies
In addition to spawning a new casual trend in footwear, the Hush Puppies line also developed several technologies that made casual shoes worry-free. Worry-Free Suede, for example, was stain, scuff and water-resistant. Other technologies and inventions produced by the Hush Puppies line made casual shoes more comfortable and light weight. We can all thank this company for turning shoes into something that feels as good as they look.

Cold weather is on the way as are winter sports, which means bundling up with the coolest winter accessories for the 2008-2009 season. There are a wide variety of winter accessories, including the most popular pieces and styles in hats, gloves and scarves - all designed to not only provide warmth but also to enhance the winter wardrobe.

One of the most popular winter accessories is the Gabriella Rocha Peppy with pom-pom embellishment and braided tassels. This popular style can be worn loose or tied and is one of the hottest winter accessories. It's made from 100-percent acrylic and loose knit fabric. The cool kids sport this Gabriella Rocha label. The retail price is $37 for this fashionable hat.

The Goorin Brothers Urkel Beanie remains one of the most popular winter accessories for 2008-2009. Seen on the slopes and in many ski resorts in addition to cold climate areas, the Goorkin Brothers Urkel Beanie is a sweater-knit beanie made from 100-percent acrylic and also features a soft brim. Definitely one of the most popular winter accessories for 2008-2009, the Urkel Beanie is available in olive or khaki. The cool Urkel Beanie retails for approximately $41.

The Louise is another cool hat that ranks in the top of the popular winter accessories for 2008-2009. Made by the Goorin Brothers, the Louise is a popcorn-knit hat made from 100-percent acrylic and features a short soft brim. A must have accessory item from the collection of winter accessories for 2008-2009, the Goorkin Brothers Louise is available in cream, brown or black and retails for $41.

Another very unique item from the Goorin Brothers that is among the most popular winter accessories for 2008-2009 is the Goorin Brothers Major Burns. With Major Burns it's all about cool and fashion. The Goorin Brothers Major Burns are classic fingerless gloves made from a warm 100-percent-acrylic knit and are available in a variety of colors such as charcoal, black, brown and olive at a retail price of $38. Sometimes it's all about being cool even in winter.

Hey there again, shoe encyclopedia enthusiasts. You've learned quite a bit about footwear and related terms at this point. But, fortunately, for your curious mind, the shoe encyclopedia still contains plenty more knowledge to be gained. The last lesson was about scotch grain (that doesn't involve alcohol), split leather, the monk strap and chukka boots. This time around the shoe encyclopedia lesson will be about pitch, the athleisure shoe, a medical condition called flat foot and podiatry.

Pitch
We're not talking fine tuning musical skills or throwing a fast one to the batter here. This is shoe talk, not music class or baseball. On a shoe, the pitch is the angle at which the back of the heel comes in contact with the sole, in contrast with where the front part of the heel and comes into contact with the sole. That angle, or pitch, is how stability in the shoe is determined.

Athleisure Shoe
An athleisure shoe is one that has a stylish, athletic look, but is actually for leisurely, relaxed wear. While athleisure shoes may look like those worn during athletics, these are instead for casual occasions, such as hanging out with your favorite group of friends. These come in styles for both men and women. This is currently a popular style of shoe.

Flat Foot
Flat foot is a medical condition. In this state, the arch sits flat in line with the rest of the foot. This condition occurs in many children, due to natural baby fat, but can also occur in adults. Flat foot in children (mostly babies) is usually normal and is eventually grown out of as the children get older. Adults who get flat foot do not usually grow out of it. It is generally not painful, but can be in more serious cases.

Podiatry
Podiatry is the licensed medical practice of treating and preventing foot diseases, ailments and conditions. In podiatry, medical professionals (commonly known as podiatrists) can diagnose, treat and advise on the prevention of conditions such as flat foot and bunions. If shoe and foot knowledge interest you a great deal, this is a profession to consider.

Cel Enterprises is the company that owns the Chinese Laundry and it's a handful of other shoe companies. This company has been supplying retailers, boutiques and specialty stores with quality women's shoes since 1971. The founders of this company were Carol and Robert Goldman. Their current roster of shoe lines include: Chinese Laundry, On Your Feet, CL by Laundry, Little Laundry, A'Mano, Creative International and Passports.

Chinese Laundry
Perhaps the most popular line of shoes owned by Cel Enterprises is Chinese Laundry. This is a fashion shoe line that was launched in 1981. This line of shoes is known for its fashion-forward appeal and its celebrity-grade styles. Celebrities that wear shoes from this line include Kelly Clarkson, Hilary Duff and Paris Hilton.

On Your Feet
The junior shoe line offered by Cel Enterprises is On Your Feet. This line offers the same fashion forward aesthetic offered by Chinese Laundry, however, the shoe designs are more appropriate for young women who are in love with fashion and shoes. This line launched four years after Chinese Laundry in 1985.

Little Laundry
To get girls started off on the right foot, Little Laundry was launched in 2004. This is Cel Enterprise's girls' line of fashion shoes.

CL by Laundry
In order to stay ahead in the footwear industry you need to capture all the niches possible. It is because of this that CL by Laundry was launched in 2003. This line of shoes was designed to offer affordable - but still fashionable - shoes to women.

Passports
Passports is a line of shoes launched in 1985 for working women. The focus of this line was to deliver comfortable and simple shoes that still looked great.

Creative International
Creative International was launched in 1971. This was the company's original cost division. The focus of this line was private labels. Cel Enterprises marketed these shoe lines to volume retailers across the country.

A'Mano
In 1951, A'Mano was launched and later acquired by Cel Enterprises. This is a specialty shoe line that focuses on sophistication, class and style. Many of the shoes in this line are handmade. Shoe designs from this line are appropriate for evening wear and weddings.

Baby boomers that have chosen to retire early are learning to relax all over again and enjoy the comforts of home. The days of two and three piece suits now take a back seat to being comfortable while home in loungewear. This shift in lifestyle, however, requires that one revamp his or her clothing apparel and go for something much more comfortable. In fact, after years of mad dashes to the office and airport for meetings and business trips, it requires a little bit of help to key down the energy and enjoy being comfortable while home in loungewear.

One of the best ways to change one's mindset is to change habits and train the brain all over again. Many innovative and proactive early retirees are working from home, which allows them to wear loungewear and even pajamas while working. Why not opt for some of the most comfortable, quality loungewear on the market. Pine Cone Hill Sleepwear for women offers an excellent line of comfortable and quality pajamas that are ideal for being comfortable while home in loungewear. Available in a wide variety of patterns and colors, the pajamas are made of 100-percent cotton and are even great gift items. The cozy, comfortable, brushed, cotton pajamas retail for about $64 per pair.

For the male baby boomer that chooses to either work from home or simply enjoys being comfortable while home in loungewear, BedHead has a great line of pajamas that are comfortable and quality-made. The high end pajamas are a great personal indulgence or a gift item for Christmas, Father's Day or other special occasions. The beautiful and well-tailored pajamas are made from luxurious 100-percent Egyptian cotton and are as masculine as they are luxurious. Definitely a great choice of clothing items for being comfortable while home in loungewear, the BedHead Pajamas are available in a variety of striped patterns for approximately $144 per pair and are a celebrity favorite. Forget the jeans and the sweats and go for the loungewear.

Wearing high heels and pointed-toed shoes eventually takes a toll on women's feet. The constant pushing down into the tight toe box eventually creates overlapping toes. Short of surgery, there is one way to combat this before it gets worse: wear shoes with a wider toe box. It is generally only after pain in the ball of the foot or edge of the toes that women end up in the podiatrist's office. That is when the dreaded news is shared that the pointed-toed shoes with the high, sexy heel when worn regularly are, in fact, a detriment to one's foot health.

Most stilettos and pointed-toe shoes are short-term-wear styles. Do not try to wear them on a marathon night. Purchase a pair of comfortable shoes with a wide toe box to wear daily during working hours, as well as casual hours. Put the stilettos on when you get where you're going. Yes, they look good, and yes, they make a woman look sexy. But years down the road, crooked overlapping toes are not so great to look at. You can still have your cake and eat it but consider foot health and always carry a pair of practical shoes, particularly if you travel.

There are several great brands that make shoes that look good and have a wide toe box, which allows the toes to spread the way they normally should. ECCO offers a good selection of shoes for business, and a great practical choice such as the ECCO Arizona Buckle will go a long way. This is a smart shoe that is great for the office or in the field. Features of the shoe include a square toe, two-inch stacked heel, mahogany leather upper, hardware accent, leather-lined foam foot bed and a rubber outsole. The ECCO Arizona Buckle retails for $77.

You can still wear your sexy shoes in moderation if a few tips are followed. The key is to be kind to your feet so that when the sexy stilettos are removed, you are still sexy.

Bearing the winter months can be difficult for those living in areas where winters are harsh. A sure shot way to stay warm and comfortable is with fur-lined boots. Warming up for winter with the right fur-lined boots ensures that you are warm and fashionable while being comfortable.

There are a number of styles available for men and women among the wide selection of fur-lined boots. For the fashionista that wants to enhance her winter wardrobe, the Michael by Michael Kors Warrior Boot is a two-in-one style. Made from a combination of quilted nylon and leather, the women's Warrior Boot can be worn as a knee boot or folded over to show off the fur lining, creating a chic and edgy look. Available in honey and taupe or in black the cozy Warrior Boot retails for $120.

For all of the tough men out there who choose to take on the cold, there are a couple of great choices from among the collection of fur-lined boots for winter. The Salomon Snowtrip TS WP, available in black or brown, are a great choice for casual wear and sports outings. The temperature-rated, stylish boot is designed for warmth and is waterproofed to provide maximum comfort in extremely cold conditions. Made from synthetic suede and textile uppers the Salomon Snowtrip TS WP has a synthetic fur lining and Thinsulate insulation, ensuring a comfortable and warm boot. Other great features to the stylishly warm, fur-lined boot include heel foam for cushioning, molded EVA midsole for support and a die-cut EVA sock liner for extra cushioning. Definitely a great choice for warming up for winter, a pair of the fur-lined Salomon Snowtrip TS WP boots for men retail for approximately $99.

Where we cannot control the seasons and weather, one's approach to the seasons is definitely a creative solution. Gearing up properly for the cold helps to battle the harsh edge of winter weather and wearing comfortable, fur-lined boots is a great start especially if they are stylish and versatile.

Hungry for more shoe knowledge? It's a good thing, because there is plenty more to learn. If you've been keeping up with these lessons from the shoe encyclopedia, you'll know that we've discussed over 50 shoe-related terms already. In the last lesson from the shoe encyclopedia, we covered shoe anatomy, vibram, break and foxing. This week, we'll discuss scotch grain, split leather, the monk strap and the chukka boot. Remember, if you've missed any previous lessons, they are always easy to find on Zappos.com.

Scotch Grain
Not to be confused with the ingredients of an alcoholic beverage, this type of scotch grain is not made for the consumption of responsible adults (or anyone else, for that matter). It actually is an upper section (or grain) of leather affected by a certain embossing process. A leather grain that is embossed with a heavily pebbled look is referred to as scotch grain leather. The resulting leather product can be used to make a wide variety of shoes and other footwear.

Split Leather
Unlike the scotch grain above, split leather is just about what it sounds like. It is leather that is taken from the hide's lower layers, which have been separated (or split) from the upper layers (or grain). Split leather can be used to make a variety of products, including shoes and other footwear.

Monk Strap
A monk-strap shoe is one that has a closed design, meaning it is without laces, zippers or other fastening devices along the toe area. To be considered a monk-strap shoe, in addition to the closed toe, the shoe would also need to have a strap that goes over the instep. It is generally a buckle style strap that will fasten at one side. Monk-strap shoes are usually those with a blucher pattern.

Chukka Boot
A Chukka Boot is one that has laces and is made to fit at the wearer's ankle. Chukka Boots generally have a plain toe. They can be worn by men, women and children alike. They can come in suede, leather, nu buck and other materials.