Steel toe? Why? You're not going to drop anything more than 20 lbs on your feet--maybe a sack of potatoes, but no steel I-beams or jack hammers.
MacGregor -One of my best friends has been a cook for 15 or so years and his reasons are as follows, -there are a lot of heavy things, in the kitchen, industrial size cans of green beans etc etc and that if one of those were to drop onto his foot while he was wearing "softer" shoes he would be out of work for a couple days/emergency room visit. But then again, my friend, love him, but he looks like a biker, so maybe he just likes boots and steel toe is just a plus.
Boots? They get mightly toasty in a hot kitchen, and if you ever spill anyting on your feet, will take too long to get out of.
MacGregor -Good point. Although overall comfort is what would kill the thought of big heavy boots for me, I just wanted to know what you all thought.
I happen to have flat feet and have been wearing custom orthotics for over 15 years now. Cheap shoes or expensive shoes doesn't really matter, what matters is if the shoe flexes laterally: That is, if I grasp the heel with one hand and try to twist the sole with the other, it should remain fairly rigid. Cheap shoes--if well selected work O.K, and not all expensive ones work O.K.. If the shoe flexes laterally, it can not provide the support the orthotic or arch support needs, and your feet will let you know---fast!.
Malwart shoes will work, but remember, it's man made materials, and feet sweat alot. Might be best to get several pairs and swap them out.
MacGregor-Think I may with go Crocs Bistro for now. Its middle of the road for me, not the "MalWart shoes" and not 100+.
For the feet, Goldbonds always does pretty good (not ideal but it will work)
Under a $100 shoes have one caveat though. When the soles/heel wear out, it's impossible to get them re-soled or re-heeled. Even if they're nice ones with leather uppers and a decent lining, it's impossible to get them re-heeled.
Hate clogs, it's a European thing. When I did my apprenticeshp everyone was wearing wood clogs, drove me nuts, swore I'd never wear another pair--and I haven't since 1985.....
MacGregor Glad you mentioned it and you did help, thank you.
hope this helps,