I find it difficult to find shoes I like that are vegan and use ethically considered materials. I also prefer my shoes to be minimal and multifunctional, so I can use them for multiple occasions and settings, because I don’t like owning lots of stuff. For me, the Docks ticked a lot of boxes.
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Firstly, they ended up being a great its-too-cold-to-not-wear-shoes type of shoe. Because of the well-spaced toe box and extra padding on the heel, they are very comfortable. They form to your foot's natural shape, and the sole is a great thickness, giving a good level of protection, without losing ground feel.
My highlight - they are so easy to slip on and take off. My favourite part is the laces (stay with me), they have genuine grip, so once they are on, they stay on - unlike some of my other shoes, where it feels like I stop and retie my laces every few steps. On a day when I can’t be barefoot, or when sandals aren’t an option, I’ve only reached for these.
I am not the sort of person who would opt for style over comfort, but with Feelgrounds I didn’t have to make the compromise. They have an effortless design without having to skimp on practicality. I was initially dubious about my ability to pull off the ‘boat shoe’ look (concerned I would look like a tiny skipper), but the minimalism of the Docks makes them easy to pair with a range of outfits, and they have found a firm place in my personal and work wardrobe.
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