Aetrex Shoes Review: Combining Comfort, Technology and Support for Healthier Feet

Are you tired of shoes that look great but leave your feet tired and achy? Do you want footwear that helps with foot problems while still looking stylish? Aetrex shoes might be the solution you need. This review dives deep into what makes Aetrex shoes special and why they have gained a reputation as some of the healthiest shoes on the market today.

Aetrex has built a strong reputation for creating shoes with exceptional comfort and support. The company has a unique approach to footwear design that focuses on foot health first, without compromising on style.

With their advanced foot scanning technology and commitment to orthotic support, Aetrex offers solutions for people with various foot conditions and those simply seeking all-day comfort.

Key Takeaways

• Aetrex shoes feature signature arch support that aligns anatomically at the proper place (apex of the arch) to support your body from the ground up
• Each Aetrex shoe includes memory foam cushioning for customized comfort that molds to your foot shape
• The company uses 3D foot scanning technology with over 50 million foot scans to create their designs
• Aetrex footwear helps reduce foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunions
• These shoes offer both style and function with fashionable designs that don’t sacrifice comfort
• Prices typically range from $100 to $150 for most models, with some styles starting around $75
• Aetrex shoes feature adjustable straps and stretchy materials to accommodate various foot shapes
• The brand offers a wide range of styles including sandals, sneakers, boots, wedges, and casual shoes
• Aetrex designs incorporate orthotic footbeds and dual-density outsoles for extra shock absorption
• The company was founded in 1946 and remains family-owned for three generations
• Aetrex footwear receives consistently positive reviews for comfort, support, and durability
• Their shoes are recommended by foot specialists for people with common foot conditions

The History and Evolution of Aetrex

Aetrex was founded in 1946 by Paul and Charles Schwartz under the original name “Apex” as an arch support and orthotics company. This family business has remained privately owned for three generations and has evolved from making orthotic inserts to creating a full line of comfortable, supportive footwear.

The company headquarters is located in Teaneck, New Jersey, just outside New York City, with additional offices in Israel and China. Over the decades, Aetrex has maintained its focus on foot health while adapting to modern technology and style demands.

What sets Aetrex apart is their commitment to foot health research. Since 2002, they have placed over 12,000 foot scanners worldwide that have performed more than 50 million unique customer foot scans. This massive database of foot measurements helps them design shoes that address common foot problems and fit a wide range of foot shapes.

Today, Aetrex is recognized as a global leader in foot scanning technology and comfort footwear. Their dedication to combining technology with comfort has created a unique position in the footwear market.

The Technology Behind Aetrex Shoes

The most unique aspect of Aetrex is their advanced foot scanning technology. Their flagship scanner, the Albert 3DFit, uses four state-of-the-art Intel RealSense 3D Depth Cameras to capture accurate foot data in seconds. This scanner measures metrics like arch height, pressure points, foot length, width, girth, and instep height with millimeter precision.

When you get your feet scanned with an Aetrex device, the system captures a complete 360-degree scan of your feet. This data helps identify issues like overpronation, flat feet, high arches, or pressure points that could cause pain. The scanner then recommends the best footwear and orthotic inserts for your specific foot structure.

In 2024, Aetrex launched Tootsie, an industry-first 3D foot scanning technology specifically designed for children. This kid-friendly scanning system helps parents find the right shoe sizes for growing feet, addressing the common problem of ill-fitting children’s shoes.

The company applies this technology directly to their shoe designs. Each Aetrex shoe incorporates the findings from millions of foot scans, resulting in footwear that addresses common pain points and provides support where people need it most.

Signature Features of Aetrex Footwear

When you put on a pair of Aetrex shoes, you immediately notice several distinctive features that set them apart from other brands. The most notable is their signature arch support system. Unlike many shoes with minimal arch support, Aetrex positions their arch support precisely at the apex of the arch, providing optimal alignment and stability.

Another key feature is the memory foam cushioning found in most Aetrex styles. This responsive material conforms to your foot shape, creating a custom fit that reduces pressure points. The memory foam works with the arch support to distribute weight evenly across your foot.

Many Aetrex shoes also feature adjustable straps or laces that allow for a customized fit. This is especially helpful for people whose feet tend to swell throughout the day or who have different sized feet.

The dual-density outsoles on Aetrex shoes provide excellent shock absorption, reducing impact when walking or standing for long periods. This feature is particularly beneficial for people with joint pain or those who spend long hours on their feet.

For those with bunions or wider feet, Aetrex offers stretchy materials and bunion pockets in many styles. This accommodates foot irregularities without adding pressure to sensitive areas.

Popular Aetrex Shoe Models and Styles

Aetrex offers a wide range of shoe styles to suit different needs and preferences. Among their most popular models is the Carly sneaker, which features arch support, memory foam cushioning, a padded heel, and stretchy knit material. Customers praise this style for its comfort during long walks and everyday wear.

The Jillian sandal is another customer favorite, especially among travelers. With its braided quarter strap design and anatomical arch support, this sandal provides both style and function for all-day walking. Many customers report wearing these sandals for 5-12 miles per day without discomfort.

For those seeking more elegant options, the Courtney wedge offers sophisticated style with the same supportive features found in other Aetrex shoes. The wedge design provides added height without sacrificing stability or comfort.

The Danika sneaker has received excellent reviews, particularly from people with plantar fasciitis. Its structured arch support and cushioned footbed help alleviate heel pain while providing a stylish casual option.

For men, popular styles include the Maui flip flops with built-in arch support and the Owen sneakers that combine athletic performance with foot health features.

Across all these styles, Aetrex maintains their commitment to proper foot support while offering fashionable options that work for different occasions and wardrobes.

How Aetrex Shoes Help with Foot Problems

Aetrex shoes are particularly valuable for people dealing with common foot conditions. For plantar fasciitis sufferers, the arch support helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia ligament, while the cushioned heel pad absorbs shock at the pain point. Many customers report significant relief when switching to Aetrex footwear.

People with flat feet benefit from the proper arch placement, which helps create alignment throughout the gait cycle. This reduces overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) and prevents related injuries to the ankles, knees, and hips.

For those with bunions, Aetrex offers styles with stretchable materials that accommodate the bunion without compressing it. Some models include specific bunion pockets that create space for this common foot protrusion.

Wide feet are accommodated through adjustable straps and varying width options. Many Aetrex shoes come in medium and wide widths to ensure proper fit for different foot shapes.

Those suffering from diabetic foot issues appreciate the non-binding upper designs and seamless interiors that reduce friction and pressure points, decreasing the risk of dangerous ulcers.

Even people with arthritis find relief in Aetrex footwear, as the shock-absorbing soles reduce joint impact, and the easy-to-adjust closures accommodate swelling that often accompanies arthritic conditions.

Comparing Aetrex to Other Orthotic Shoe Brands

When comparing Aetrex to other orthotic shoe brands, several differences become apparent. Unlike some competitors that focus exclusively on medical-looking orthopedic shoes, Aetrex blends function with fashion, offering stylish options that don’t scream “orthopedic footwear.”

Compared to brands like Vionic, Aetrex tends to offer more substantial arch support. While both brands address foot health, Aetrex’s arch support is often described as more pronounced and precisely positioned.

Superfeet is known for their insoles, but Aetrex provides both quality insoles and complete footwear solutions. This integrated approach ensures that the orthotic support works perfectly with the shoe design.

Dr. Scholl’s products are more widely available and typically less expensive, but Aetrex offers more sophisticated technology and comprehensive foot support. The investment in Aetrex products often translates to better long-term foot health outcomes.

In terms of scanning technology, Aetrex leads the industry. While some competitors offer basic foot measurements, few match the detailed 3D scanning capabilities that inform Aetrex’s design process.

The price point for Aetrex shoes is generally higher than mass-market comfort brands but comparable to other premium orthotic footwear. Most styles range from $100 to $150, reflecting the technology and quality materials used in their construction.

The Aetrex Foot Scanning Experience

Getting an Aetrex foot scan is a unique experience that many customers find enlightening. Available at select retailers carrying Aetrex products, the scanning process takes less than 20 seconds but provides valuable insights into your foot structure.

When you step onto an Albert scanner, the system captures thousands of data points about your feet. The scan identifies pressure points, arch type, foot length, width, and other crucial measurements. This visual representation helps you understand your unique foot structure and why you might experience certain types of pain or discomfort.

After scanning, the system recommends specific Aetrex shoes and orthotic inserts that match your foot profile. This personalized approach takes the guesswork out of finding comfortable footwear.

For parents, the new Tootsie scanning system makes shoe shopping with children easier and more engaging. The kid-friendly interface keeps children still during the scan while providing accurate measurements for growing feet.

This technology-driven approach to shoe fitting represents a significant advancement over traditional sizing methods, which often fail to account for the three-dimensional aspects of foot structure that affect comfort and fit.

Price Range and Value Proposition of Aetrex Shoes

Aetrex shoes typically range from $75 to $150, with most popular styles priced between $100 and $135. While this places them in the premium footwear category, many customers find the investment worthwhile for the pain relief and comfort they provide.

Sandals like the popular Jess model retail for around $109, while the Jillian style costs approximately $135. Sneakers such as the Carly or Danika typically sell for $125 to $140. More specialized boots or wedges may reach the $150 mark.

The value proposition extends beyond the initial purchase price. Many users report that their Aetrex shoes last longer than less expensive brands, making the cost per wear more reasonable. Additionally, the potential reduction in foot pain and related medical expenses adds to the value calculation.

Aetrex does offer sales throughout the year, with discounts of up to 70% on selected styles. These sales provide opportunities to try the brand at a lower price point.

When considering the price, it’s worth noting that Aetrex shoes include built-in orthotic support that would otherwise require separate orthotic inserts costing $50 or more. This integrated approach provides both convenience and cost efficiency.

Care and Maintenance of Your Aetrex Shoes

To get the most value from your Aetrex investment, proper care is essential. Most Aetrex shoes can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. The company recommends avoiding machine washing or drying, as this can damage the supportive structures and memory foam.

For leather styles, applying a leather conditioner occasionally will help maintain flexibility and prevent cracking. Suede models benefit from a suede brush and protectant spray to repel water and stains.

The removable footbeds in many Aetrex styles can be taken out to air dry if they become damp. This helps prevent odor and extend the life of the internal cushioning.

When not wearing your Aetrex shoes, storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will prevent material deterioration. Using shoe trees can help maintain their shape, especially for leather styles.

With proper care, many customers report their Aetrex shoes lasting for several years of regular wear. This longevity contributes to the overall value of the investment.

Where to Buy Authentic Aetrex Shoes

Aetrex shoes are available through multiple channels. The official Aetrex website (aetrex.com) offers the complete range of current styles and often features exclusive online models not found elsewhere.

Specialty footwear retailers that focus on comfort shoes typically carry Aetrex products. These include The Walking Company, Foot Solutions, and Lucky Feet Shoes. The advantage of shopping at these retailers is the opportunity to try on different styles and potentially access foot scanning technology.

Online marketplaces like Zappos and Amazon also sell Aetrex shoes, often with customer reviews that can help guide your selection. However, be cautious of unauthorized sellers offering suspiciously low prices, as counterfeit products exist.

For the best experience, Aetrex recommends using their store locator tool on their website to find authorized retailers in your area, especially those with foot scanning capabilities. This ensures you get authentic products and the full benefit of their technology.

Some medical offices specializing in podiatry or orthopedics may also carry Aetrex products, particularly their orthotic inserts. These medical professionals can provide guidance on which Aetrex solutions might best address specific foot conditions.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customer feedback for Aetrex shoes is predominantly positive, especially among people with foot conditions. Many users report significant pain reduction after switching to Aetrex footwear.

One Zappos reviewer noted about the Carly sneaker: “These shoes fit beautifully. Fit my heel, arch support is where it should be and they are true to size and very comfortable.”

Travel enthusiasts particularly praise the Jillian sandals, with one reviewer on Rick Steves’ travel forum stating: “I recently wore my Aetrex Jillian sandals on 2 RS tours, walking 5-12 miles per day and absolutely loved them. They became my primary shoes over several other pairs I brought.”

People with plantar fasciitis frequently mention relief when wearing Aetrex. A Zappos customer wrote about the Danika sneaker: “These shoes are AMAZING! I have horrible plantar fasciitis, and this is virtually the only shoe that I can wear pain free.”

While most reviews are positive, some customers mention that Aetrex shoes run wide in the toe box area. This is intentional for foot health but may require sizing adjustments for people with narrow feet.

The durability of Aetrex products also receives praise, with many customers reporting their shoes remaining comfortable and supportive after months or years of regular wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Aetrex shoes good for plantar fasciitis?

Yes, Aetrex shoes are excellent for plantar fasciitis. Their proper arch support and cushioned heel padding help reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

Where are Aetrex shoes made?

Aetrex is headquartered in New Jersey with additional offices in Israel and China. Their products are manufactured in various global locations.

How do I know what size Aetrex shoe to buy?

Aetrex shoes typically run true to size, but for the most accurate fit, visit a retailer with an Aetrex foot scanner or use their online sizing guide.

Can I wash my Aetrex shoes?

Most Aetrex shoes should be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Machine washing is not recommended as it can damage the supportive structures.

Do Aetrex shoes come in wide widths?

Yes, many Aetrex styles come in medium and wide widths to accommodate different foot shapes.

How long do Aetrex shoes last?

With proper care, Aetrex shoes typically last 1-3 years depending on frequency of wear and walking conditions.

Are Aetrex shoes worth the price?

Most customers find Aetrex shoes worth the investment due to their comfort, pain relief benefits, and durability.

Do Aetrex shoes require a break-in period?

Most Aetrex shoes are comfortable right out of the box, but some leather styles may need a short break-in period of 1-2 days.

Can I use my own orthotics with Aetrex shoes?

Yes, many Aetrex styles have removable footbeds that can be replaced with custom orthotics if needed.

Are Aetrex shoes good for walking long distances?

Absolutely. Many travelers choose Aetrex for walking tours and vacations because of their exceptional comfort during extended walking.