As the founder of Maratown's running dress shoes, I have spent years exploring the intersection of footwear innovation and comfort. One of the most polarizing debates in the shoe industry revolves around cushioning—whether it's a necessary advancement or an unnecessary barrier between our feet and the ground. The barefoot movement gained traction in the late 2000s, arguing that less is more, that natural foot mechanics should not be interfered with, and that cushioning leads to weakened foot muscles. Meanwhile, max cushioned shoes emerged with brands like Hoka, and super shoes significantly influenced the running shoe market in the late 2010s. While my experience with cushioning has been overwhelmingly positive, science seems to struggle to explain its benefits definitively.
Critics of cushioning argue that thick, soft soles disrupt the body's natural feedback mechanisms. They claim that cushioning reduces proprioception, the body's ability to sense movement and position, which can lead to inefficiencies and even injury. As Dr. Aminaka's research has shown, "Studies on barefoot running suggest that minimalist footwear promotes a more natural gait and may reduce impact forces on joints" (1). However, this argument is largely centered around running, where barefoot runners tend to land on the forefoot. Maratown shoes, on the other hand, are designed primarily for walking, where heel striking is the natural and biomechanically efficient pattern. The advantages of cushioning are particularly relevant for prolonged standing and walking, where shock absorption helps reduce fatigue and strain on joints.
Despite these criticisms, many find that cushioning provides undeniable comfort, reduces fatigue, and enhances long-term wearability. As Lim et al. demonstrated, "Scientific studies have shown that cushioning can help reduce localized impact stress on the feet, distribute pressure more evenly, and lower the risk of repetitive stress injuries" (2). Moreover, as Malisoux et al. found, "Softer cushioning is associated with a lower injury risk compared to harder shoes, particularly for lighter runners" (3).
A notable case is Emily, a marathon runner who suffered from chronic knee pain when training in firm shoes. After switching to a well-cushioned shoe model, her pain significantly reduced, enabling her to complete her races with improved comfort and efficiency.
Biomechanics is highly individual. While some thrive in minimal footwear, others require additional support and shock absorption due to their anatomy, weight distribution, or pre-existing conditions. As Reyes et al. highlighted, "Cushioning has been shown to alleviate discomfort for many, particularly those who experience joint pain or plantar fasciitis" (4).
Unlike traditional dress shoes that emphasize style over comfort, Maratown's running dress shoes merges the plush cushioning of a maximalist running shoe with the refined aesthetics of a dress shoe. This innovative design provides the comfort and shock absorption of high-performance footwear while maintaining a polished, professional look. However, a common criticism of highly cushioned shoes is stability. Many maximalist shoes suffer from narrow soles, compromising balance—examples include models like the Adidas Adizero Prime X and certain MBT walking shoes.
Maratown addresses this by providing a wide-base sole for stability and ankle protection. Additionally, the dual-material structure and reinforced heel counter help control pronation and supination angles, offering better foot alignment and support. Despite its thickness, Maratown remains lightweight and flexible, ensuring ease of movement and prolonged comfort. In men's size 9, the leather version weighs 13.83 oz (392 g), an impressive weight for a leather dress shoe.
Learn more about Maratown's advanced shoe technology here.
Science provides valuable insights, but human experience should not be ignored. While barefoot advocates have valid points, as Malisoux et al. demonstrated, "The benefits of cushioning for long-term comfort and fatigue reduction cannot be dismissed. Research continues to evolve, with studies showing the protective effects of soft cushioning on injury risk" (5). At Maratown, we believe that cushioning has a place in modern footwear, not as a crutch but as an evolution—one that prioritizes well-being, comfort, and performance.
Please note: We are not authorized to provide medical advice, and Maratown shoes are not classified as medical devices.
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Women entrepreneurs face unique challenges in balancing professional demands with personal style. Long days filled with meetings, networking, and decision-making require footwear that not only complements their confidence but also supports their busy lives. Enter Maratown: the dress shoes designed to combine elegance with the all-day comfort of running shoes.
Maratown dress shoes are the embodiment of functionality and style, designed for women who won’t settle for less. These unisex shoes boast a thick sole crafted to provide maximum cushioning and unparalleled comfort. Let’s explore what sets Maratown apart and why these shoes are a game-changer for women entrepreneurs and professionals.
Pedorthists often face the challenge of recommending shoes that strike the right balance between medical functionality and stylish design. Many brands focus on one at the expense of the other, leaving specialists to compromise. Recognizing this gap, Maratown has developed a unique line of shoes in collaboration with pedorthists, integrating their feedback to create footwear that is both medically beneficial and visually appealing. Maratown shoes are not designed for fashion but as prescriptions for maximum comfort and elegance. The secret lies in the sole—a carefully crafted combination of materials and structure—and the design’s commitment to comfort, stability, and adjustability.
