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Readers Respond: How Do You Feel About Wearing Used Shoes?

Responses: 15

By , About.com Guide

From the article: Vintage Shoes
The thought of wearing used shoes may be unpleasant to some, but to others, discovering the perfect pair of vintage shoes is tantamount to finding the Holy Grail.

How do you feel about wearing used shoes? Share Your Thoughts

I do it all the time :)

I adore vintage shoes. I love the quality, style and the fact that no one else will have them. Most of the time, vintage shoes are well-made and last alot longer than the cheap stuff we're used to wearing today. I wouldn't give it a second thought.
—Guest mona

I Worry about Used Shoes

If I wear used shoes I will worry about some dirty or fungal infection from previous owner, including wedding shoes of close friend. I know there are many deodorants and antifungal sprays , but I can't get over the "dirty" feeling.
—Guest Elena

Wear used shoes?

No way! Fit wouldn't be the same and who knows how and by whom they were worn?
—Guest LJAmick

Gently-Loved Shoes

I shop goodwill and have found Manolos there for 15 bucks! They had no idea!! Consignment & goodwill stores only take shoes that are in good repair. Lysol and go without fear.
—Guest ncyf13@gmail.com

Concerns about Wearing Used Shoes

Any pair of shoes that has been worn by another person usually molds to their feet and I've found them not to "mold" to my feet and are uncomfortable to wear. Also, not knowing how a person cares for their shoes is a concern of mine.
—Guest rhebert

Used Designer Shoes

If the shoes are designer (enough), yes. Spray with lysol, then ok, otherwise no way.
—Guest priscilla sparrow

Used Shoes Help Charities

Of course I would ... normally I only purchase used shoes that appear to be in very good shape (and most of those have very little wear/usage). Shoes can be santized, as you've already seen referenced. Haven't you ever given used shoes to charity bunches that call and come pick up YOUR used items? If so, you expect someone else to use your used shoes!
—Guest dteach

Fungus?

I don't care to buy used shoes. You never know what kind of foot fungus someone might have had etc. It just grosses me out to think of wearing someone elses shoes.
—Guest MHM

Normally I wouldn't ...

Normally I wouldn't but I found a pair of snakeskin pumps with a 4" heel at Value Village that I couldn't resist.
—RhondaHarris

Goody Two Shoes

Often, buying shoes second-hand can be rewarding if they where expensive to buy in the first place. Looking around charity shops, it is possible to obtain very good items at a fraction of their initial cost. I buy at these places all the time and love the search; when one drops on the right size of shoe it feels great. Vintage shoes are more expensive, but some great shoes were made in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Of course, finding the right size can be difficult; often you have to rely on a description and overall measurements given by the seller, but all shoes are great to wear.
—Guest uk choice

Ferragamos, Baby!

I have three used pairs of Ferragamo pumps that I otherwise never could have (or would have) afforded. I also find, and love, great vintage boots. I don't see any problem with wearing used shoes.
—Guest Elizabeth

I Won't Wear Used Shoes

I think it's gross to wear used shoes. You don't know what kind of germs and fungus they have.
—Guest Brat

I Love to Redesign Used Shoes

One thing I love to design (or redesign) is used shoes. It brings life to old favorite(s). Many of our customers like the idea of revamping and customizing their old faithfuls. The are broke in and no one will have that shoe!
—Guest Shoes of Imagination

Used Shoes or Vintage Shoes?

Most of the vintage stores I shop at only accept very clean items, so I buy all sorts of things from them. But would I buy a pair of grungy old sneakers? No.
—Guest Smokeyjo

Why Not?

I buy used shoes all the time on eBay, at garage sales, and at vintage stores. Why not? It's a great way to save money, and you can always disinfect them. Not that I ever do.
—Guest BriannaC

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