One of our health obsessed fans sent us this gem. Aside from inducing a massive Inspector Gadget flashback the Z-Coil shoes supposedly reduce foot-leg-back pain generated during walking, running and jumping. There is a hefty amount of legit sounding data and a number of lengthy science type sales pitches available online. There is also a remarkable amount of “these shoes are overpriced and suck” posts online and a large number of “only wore these once or twice” entries on eBay… The truth lies somewhere in between. So if you decide that you are not put off by wearing shoes with a big ass spring attached to the heel, do your due diligence and *try before you buy*. I wonder if there is a Solar version available…
Video after the break.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VwKffYF6fo
Yes, the Z-Coils are the ugliest shoes on the planet, and yes, they make one look like a “tool”, as you stated. Nevertheless, they are the only reason I’m still able to walk at all so I’d rather look like a tool than be crippled. I DO agree with you that they are overpriced, but then again so are ridiculous little strips of leather stuck together with designer labels that hurt one’s feet!
If you aren’t sure about them, and you have back/leg problems, then definitely try a gently-used pair off of Ebay before investing in the more expensive new ones.
It’s not about “health-obsessed”, it’s about being able to continue to function as well as possible.
Yes, they are ridiculously expensive (I paid $250, and I work in a restaurant for barely over minimum wage) but I also have been plagued with RIDICULOUS back pain for more than 5 years. When I put these on I could actually walk while standing straight up. I don’t really care how ugly or whatever they are…they enable me to be on my feet for longer amounts of time. Not to mention it saves me money because I don’t have to go to the chiropractor as often and I can work longer shifts! I highly recommend them.