Top Rocker Bottom Shoes

Comfort Shoes, feature 4, Fitness Shoes, Rocker Bottom Shoes, Toning Shoes, Walking Shoes - By Ed Forteau on Monday, June 21, 2010 - 22:37

What are Rocker Bottom Shoes?

Rocker bottom shoes are not exactly shoes that rock stars wear – although they are very popular among celebrities!  Rocker bottom shoes are literally shoes that have a bottom that simulates a rocking motion when you stand or walk in them.  They may seem like a new style, but they are not.  They have become an increasingly popular fitness trend that has been around for a while, and there is proven clinical research to demonstrate that there are real fitness and health benefits to wearing these unstable soled shoes.

The soles of rocker bottom shoes are thick and curved – creating the rocking ability that is lacking in traditional flat shoes.  They have a distinct and unique look to them, but a watchful eye will notice that a lot of people are wearing these shoes are on a daily basis.

 

 

Who Wears Rocker Bottom Shoes -- and Are They Right For You?

Okay, some rock stars probably wear rocker bottom shoes, but they are really designed for everyone to wear.  From novices and beginners who are out of shape and simply walk to pro-athletes who train with them, rocker bottom shoes are right for everyone.  The benefits of wearing rocker bottom shoes come from daily walking, not strenuous workouts, which make them the perfect compliment to any lifestyle.

If you are looking for a way to tone up, improve your health and fitness, lose weight, or simply get more of a challenge from your daily walking, rocker bottom shoes are for you.

 

The Top Rocker Bottom Shoes

MBT Shoes

  • Features – Called the “anti-shoe,” these shoes are made to feel like walking in sand – disrupting your stability in a way that maximizes your muscles and body posture. MBT Shoes - Rocker Bottom Shoes Not made for high-endurance or impact activity, the benefits come from regular, daily walking wear.  MBT is the father of the rocker bottom fitness shoe, and is consider the leader of rocker bottom technology.  More medical research studies have to done to determine the health efficacy of these shoes than any rocker bottom shoe.  They are available in the largest variety of style than any other rocker bottom shoe.
  • Price – A wide range that depends on the style and retailer goes from $100.00 to over $260.00.
  • Company Details – MBT stands for “Barefoot Masai Technology,” and the Swiss company believes strongly in improving the overall health of a person with the aid of a shoe that can be worn all of the time – not just an exercise shoe.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – Customers like the benefits of weight loss and muscle toning.  They also helped people with back pain.

Editors Pick: MBT Shoes are Top of Class for Rocker Bottom Shoes

New Balance Rock & Tone

  • Features – Cushioned insoles, high quality materials and thick, firm soles make Rock & Tone shoes comfortable, durable, and breathable.  Outsoles are designed to New Balance Rock & Tone - Rocker Shoesmaximize your daily walking for improved tone and increased calorie burning.  There are attractive shoes.  Currently only available in a sneaker.
  • Price – The average price is around $85.00.  They are a bit hard to find locally, but are available online. 
  • Company Details – New Balance has been around for a long time and has been making high quality performance and fitness shoes since its inception.  A name you can count on and trust.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – Customers love the sleek design of Rock & Tone shoes as well as their superior comfort, fit, and fitness results.  Perfect for daily wear and exercise.

Clark Waves

  • Features – Rocker outsole with rounded edges helps step spring forward.  Decreased heel strike and pressure on joints.  Lightweight and flexible for all day comfort and Clarks Wave Shoes - Rocker Bottom Shoesversatility of wear.  Slip-resistance, shock absorption, moldable cushioned insole, leather upper, sockliner, and an extra layer of EVA all contribute to the comfort and quality of Clarks Waves.  These shoes are dressier than the other rocker bottom shoes on this list.
  • Price – Range from $90.00 to $120.00 depending on style and retailer.
  • Company Details – Clarks has been making shoes for almost 200 years, making it the oldest of the companies making rocker bottom shoes.  Their long-standing commitment to quality, technology, customers, and community make them one of the best manufacturers of shoes today.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – The flexible upper and no break-in period are top reviews for Clarks Waves.  Comfort and durability also top the lists.

Skechers Shape Ups

  • Skechers Shape Ups - Rocker ShoesFeatures – Each distinct part of Shape Ups (Upper, Sockliner, Midsole, Kinectic Wedge, and Outsole) make the shoe durable, supportive, comfortable, and shock-absorbing.  All of the shoes are breathable and offer protection from moisture and odor.
  • Price – Depending on style and retailer, there is a range from about $55.00 to $110.00.
  • Company Details – Skechers is a company known for combining the best in fashion trends with comfortable, practical footwear.
  • Size & Fit - Tends to run a half size small.  True to width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – People love the price of Skechers as well as the designs and styles.  Customers report results ranging from stronger muscles in legs, buttocks, back, and abdomen to improved posture.

Cogent Shoes

  • Features – Many other toning shoes create an unstable walking surface. Cogent shoes do not.  They have a double rocker bottom, but it is designed not to Cogent Shoes - Rocker Bottom Shoesdestabilize the step, but instead stabilize and support it. Orthodic or foam footbed, bacteria and odor control, a dual-arch support system, non-slip, and shock absorbing rubber soles contribute maximum fitness benefits.  
  • Price – Around $135.00 for sneakers, $155.00 for sandals, and over $200.00 for dressier shoes.
  • Company Details – A much newer shoe manufacturer than some of the others, Cogent Footwear has made a name for itself as a company with a commitment to modern fashion as well as health.  The company focuses on total body health and fitness as well as balance.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – People love the look of these shoes and the high quality construction.  Comfortable to wear with real toning results.  Similar to Chung Shi Shoes at around half the price.

Sano by Mephisto

  • Features – Sano shoes are deigned to promote an increase in burned calories, improved posture, increased circulation, and muscle toning.  Sano shoes are Sano by Mephisto - Rocker Shoeswonderfully comfortable and great for daily wear and performance activities. They have a Power Stimulator in the heel, which returns the energy generated through walking.  And a multi vibration system in the forefoot, which induces instability and activates seldom used muscles.
  • Price – A range from about $250.00 to $280.00.  
  • Company Details – With a European tradition, Mephisto is a company that prides itself on quality, durable shoes that are made with only natural materials (soft leather, latex, cork and rubber), with each shoe made, in part, by hand.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  Not for very narrow feet.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – There are sandals, casual shoes, and sneaker designs.  Fit and cushioned comfort.  Great eco-friendly shoe as well.  They are pricey, but are the most comfortable of all the rocker bottom shoes.

Editors Pick: Sano by Mephisto are the Most Comfortable rocker bottom shoes.

RYN Shoes

  • RYN Shoes - Rocker Bottom ShoesFeatures – Rocker bottom, cushioned insole, and breathable materials all lend themselves to these contemporary shoes.  
  • Price – Around $245.00 for sandals, around $265.00+ for sneakers, and around $300.00 for shoes (like their Mary Jane style).
  • Company Details – This company is modern, fresh, and very new.  With little experience, the company depends on research and technology to generate a quality, comfortable product.
  • Size & Fit - True to size and width.  High arch support. 
  • Why People Like It – Appeals to a more youthful crowd, these shoes have such a great urban, hip look to them, that some customers report buying them for their looks not health benefits only to be thrilled to discover those, too!

Chung Shi Shoes

  • Chung Shi Shoes - Rocker Bottom ShoesFeatures – Offers all of the benefits of other toning shoes (weight loss, toning, etc), these shoes also work to massage your feet while you wear them with acupressure points.  Focus is on health, fitness, beauty, and relaxation.
  • Price – From $235.00 to $268.00 depending on style and retailer.
  • Company Details – This relatively new company combines “ancient Asian wisdom and modern German design and technology” to create a shoe that is deigned to maximize fitness results with daily wear.  The German company uses sophisticated lines, and sleek styles to compliment their technology.
  • Size & Fit - True to size.  Snug in width.  Moderate arch support.
  • Why People Like It – Sharper look than other toning shoes, many wearers feel they do exactly what the company promises!

 

Here Are The Best Places To Buy These Rocker Bottom Shoes

MBT Shoes, New Balance Rock & Tone, Sano by Mephisto, Clark Wave, and Skecher Shape-Ups can all be purchased at The Most Trusted Toning Shoe Retailer  This family owned company is the #1 online retailer specializing in Comfort/Walking shoes.  They limit the shoes they carry to only what they consider the best (and most comfortable) shoes on the market.  They are the largest MBT Shoes retailer, and guarantee the lowest prices on all of their shoes.  Free shipping, a lifetime return policy, and top notch after the purchase customer support combine to make them the best choice (even above the buying direct from the manufactures) for any of the top rocker bottom shoes.

Exclusive Discount: For a limited time, save an additional $20 on any purchase of $100 (or more) from our top retailer (link above). Discount available for online orders only.  Exclusive for Walking Shoe Reviews readers only.

You'll find the largest selection of Cogent Shoes at endless.com

RYN and Chung Shi Shoes can be purchased from authorized retailers.  The corporate website for RYN Shoes is rynfootwearusa.com.  The corporate website for Chung Shi Shoes is chungshiusa.com.

Rocker Bottom Shoes, or Rocker Shoes, are becoming increasingly more popular.  Many manufactures are coming out with different versions of the rocker bottom sole.  Some of these companies have cut corners, use cheap materials, and sell them at a low price so they can capitalize on this hot new trend.  Always remember, you get what you pay for.  We will keep this list of Top Rocker Bottom Shoes up to date.  Stick to the Rocker Shoes on this list, and you will be happy with your decision.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2011-06-13 18:19.

I also have a situation where I need to be off the ball of my foot. The MBT's worked initially but over time I developed new symptoms and increased pain. I later determined that I should have bought stable rockers rather than unstable ones. I am now seeking treatment for this side effect and am buying Finn Comfort's Finnamic shoes with a stable rocker sole.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 2011-02-05 17:36.

Mbt has a new shoe Tabia Caviar (Black) that looks a little dressier. Also the Sirima and Tunisha Black. RYN has Rose (a patent leather Mary Jane style)and the Indi. I routinely wear MBT's and am ordering a pair of RYNs to try...so I don't know about the other brands. My friends think all the rocker bottom shoes are clunky looking and ugly--but I love them to much to care! Good Luck! B

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Wed, 2011-01-26 11:38.

I have 5 pairs of MBT sandal type shoes that I love..But they are so ugly to wear with a skirt or dress..Are there any equivalent comfortable shoes out there (I have forefoot pain) for anyone that are pretty or feminine looking for evening? Thank you!

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 2011-01-23 05:24.

Reading and reading I have not being able to find out which brand of shoes should I buy to be only-toe rockers or forefoot rockers (to relieve pressure on metatarsial area)

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 2010-11-07 21:02.

Really interesting articles. I enjoyed reading it. Thanks for sharing a nice info

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Sat, 2010-11-06 22:51.

For people with fused ankles who need true rocker bottom soles, Clarks Waves are not true rocker bottom shoes. They are nice, they are comfortable, but they do not give the roll that is needed for someone who has lost movement in their ankles. For people with no ankle problems, great. Just bought my first MBT's....have some Skechers....MTB's are incredible....will not be wearing the Skechers Shape Ups anymore....MBT all the way for me right now....unless Cogent makes men's size 14 (true to fit)....then I might be willing to try them out....they look nice.

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Mon, 2010-08-30 23:07.

RYN and MBT have been battling since the 90s. Part of RYN's marketing strategy is to gain pro athlete endorsements (blue collar approach). MBT chose to go after celebrity endorsements (upscale approach). RYN tries to position itself as more of a training shoe, while MBT is a pure walking shoe. The fact of the mater is neither shoe is ideal for any activity outside of walking. Other shoes (such as Sano by Mephisto and the new Skechers Resistance Runner) are better suited for training. I don't think any athletes or celebrities favor one shoe over another. Each marketing department is out to create an Image for their shoes.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2010-08-30 13:23.

I noticed a lot of professional athletes wearing Ryn to supplement their workout. Does anyone know why they have seemed to gravitate towards Ryn?

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 2010-08-06 11:40.

I need a wide toe box and a snug heel. My first pair of MBTs helped my joint problems but hurt my feet. I talked with the manufacturer who recommended the Sport 2 model. It turns out the Sport 2 model - 2 sizes up from my regular street shoe fits best. I am currently wearing the 8 1/2 on my left foot (with a thinner sock) and the 9 on my right foot (with a thicker sock). With the 8 1/2 my toe strikes the front when I walk and the heel fits fine. With the 9, my toe does not strike the front. With proper lacing (go through the bottom hole top down) and tightening of lacing, my heels do not slip. The 8 1/2 will be shipped back Monday.

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Tue, 2010-08-03 12:32.

I've had my first pair of MBTs for over 2 years, and the soles are still good. I walk on pavement, so I would expect them to wear faster than what you are finding on a tread mill. I own a lot of athletic shoes (I'd be embarrassed to say how many), but I have found MBTs to hold up the best. I have purchased other shoes that have worn out in less than a couple of months, so hang in there with your MBTs.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2010-08-02 23:43.

I have had my MBTs for 2 yrs. I walk on a tread mill for 30 minutes, 4 days a week. I go through the soles about every 5 months. At $80 per retread it is an expensive habit. Do any of the other shoes last longer?

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Mon, 2010-08-02 17:13.

It sounds like they could be a half size too small. You have two options. 1. You can return them and purchase a half size larger shoe. 2. You can try wearing thinner socks.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2010-08-02 11:11.

Yes, they fit well in the toe and heel while standing. It is upon walking that my toe strikes the front. So this is how it is supposed to be?

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Mon, 2010-08-02 09:50.

A general rule is that there should be a little room in the toe area, but with MBTs your feet tend to move toward the front on the shoes. Check the room you have at your heel. You should have a little room, but not so much that your heel slides up when you walk in them.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Sun, 2010-08-01 11:00.

Just purchased a new pair of MBTs Sport 2 and am wearing them inside to test them out. I previously owned a pair of Lamis, which were too tight in the toe box. Sport 2 is much better fit through the forefoot, but I will still need to use my Hapad Dancer Pad for my sesmoiditis. My question is, are MBTs designed so that your toes hit the front of the shoe? I only purchased one size and wish now I had purchased the next size up.

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Thu, 2010-07-22 18:43.

Thanks so much for your comments. Many people will benefit from reading about your experience. Please let us know what you decide to purchase next, and how the shoes worked for you. Enjoy the site, and I hope you come back often.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 2010-07-22 11:19.

Hi, after a triple arhthrodesis/ankle fusion, I have no movement in my right foot/ankle at all. I have MBTs that I wear from the moment I get up in the morning until I go to bed. When I leave the house I wear a pair of Mary Jane type Z-Coils to work (I don't work every day, I sit and usually only a few hours at a time, so it varies.) Chung Shi at the gym and then back to my old faithful pair of MBTs as soon as I'm home or I'll bring them in the car to change back into. I have an RX to get my shoes modified and I have successfully had a couple of pair of Ecco Cosmos modified. My problem is with every sandal, I end up walking around with them unbuckled and eventually break down the footbed from not wearing them properly. I don't fasten the straps unless I'm out shopping or something due to swelling off and on throughout the day. It usually takes me a year and a half or so to destroy the shoe, but that's literally 365 days worth of wearing the MBTs, too. Due to injury, I am not able wear something that does not come up on my ankle because my ankle doesn't move to bring the shoe back up when I step. Wearing a different brand of shoe throughout the week, even just sometimes, keeps me using different muscles or changes my gait just enough to keep the plantar fasciitis pushed back. I am going to try the Ryn shoes now and Mephistos' brand. Going to read your article on inserts next and hopefully will find something there to help with movement. Love the site, thanks.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2010-07-12 19:47.

Thanks for your comments and recommendations. I decided to take advantage of the sale and just purchased a pair of MBT shoes (Kaya Mary Jane). I look forward to wearing them.

Ed Forteau's picture
Submitted by Ed Forteau on Mon, 2010-07-12 19:46.

Sorry to hear about your plantar plate tear.

I'm not a doctor, so I can just state my personal experience.  Of course I cannot offer any medical advice.

Now that I have the disclaimer out of the way, let's answer your question...

It sounds like you would need a rocker shoe with a stiff  midsole.  I would lean more toward the MBT.  The instability is very slight.  I also think it would take pressure off the ball of your foot when standing.  Because of the heel sensor in the MBTs, you can lean back slightly and take almost all of the pressure off the ball of your foot.  I just tried on both shoes MBTs take a little time getting use to.  At first you want to walking on the balls of your feet, because of the collapsible heel sensor.  Once you get use to walking in a heel to toe motion, you will find they work well on any smooth surface.  Walking up and down hills should not be a problem.

Footwearetc.com still has a lot of them on sale for $119.  If they don't have the style or size you want, my second choice would be Skechers Shape-Ups.  They are not as well built, but do have a collapsible heel.  Note: Shape-Ups run a half size small, so order a half size larger than you normally would.

I would also check with my doctor, or therapist.  Rocker Bottom Shoes have become extremely popular over the past year.  Doctors and therapists are starting to get more questions about them.

Anonymous's picture
Submitted by Anonymous on Mon, 2010-07-12 19:40.

I just read your review on Rocker Bottom Shoes and found it very interesting.
 
I've had foot pain recently, and had an MRI taken.  It showed that I have a tear of the third plantar plate at the level of the third metatarsophalangeal joint.  Essentially, I need shoes and/or othodontics that would relieve pressure on the ball of the foot.
 
I've been told that Cogent and MBT shoes may be appropriate.  I've tried on both including Clark Waves.  They all seem to be comfortable.  From your review, I gather that Cogent shoes are more stable than the MBT's.  The Clark Waves are comfortable, but don't seem to have as much sole.
 
Would you happen to know how Rocker Bottom Shoes would work on hills - I live in San Francisco on a hill, and there's lots of hills here.
 
Thank you for your review and any comments you may have.

Courtney Miles's picture
Submitted by Courtney Miles on Mon, 2010-06-28 00:02.

I own several pair of MBT Shoes, and I love them. And I agree with you about the Sano by Mephisto Shoes...they are very comfortable. I just purchased a pair of New Balance Rock & Tone Shoes. They are cute. Great list of rocker bottom shoes. Thanks for putting it together.

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