Are Worishofers the new Crocs? How a clog designed for bunion-sufferers became the hottest celebrity must-have

By Beth Hale

Ridiculously comfortable: Actresses Maggie Gyllenhaal (left) and Kirsten Dunst (right) are among the Worishofer's celebrity fans


Listen carefully, there's a new footwear trend on the march.

But don't expect to hear the clip clop of towering heels. This shoe has been soundlessly padding around in certain circles for the best part of 70 years.

So step into the world of the Wörishofer - a sandal which, as its name may well suggest, puts function firmly before fashion.

Named after the Bavarian spa town where it is made (Bad Wörishofen), the cork-soled saviour to the aching feet of ladies of a certain age is enjoying an unlikely surge in popularity.

Celebrities such as Maggie Gyllenhaal and Kirsten Dunst have been spotted wearing Wörishofers - which come in several designs and colours but never sway from their comfort-comes-first approach.

In America, the wedged sandals, which retail for about £40, are displayed in boutiques in trendy corners of New York.

And although not yet available in Britain, it seems just a matter of time before the Wörishofer heads this way.

Paul Weitman, of U.S.-based Laurevan shoes, has sold them for 26 years, but said in the past two sales have leapt 50 per cent.

'Younger women have really started getting interested in the shoes,' he said. 'My daughter is 28 and my wife is 56, but both wear them. They have just caught on and i can't explain it.

The sandals, which have been jokingly dubbed 'bunion shoes', have a contoured insole designed for maximum comfort.


Function before fashion: Worishofers, which were designed by a German podiatrist in the mid 20th century, have become a firm favourite with the A-list


Last night British podiatrist Beverley Ashdown said they look similar to some that have been designed with orthopaedic aims.

'An open sandal is better for foot health, and natural fabrics allow the foot to breathe,' she said, adding the cork sole absorbs some shock as the wearer is walking.

It is not the first time a shoe without obvious charms has become a fashion favourite.

Others include Dr Scholl's sandals, Birkenstocks, the Croc and the Ugg boot.
'The owner of the factory in Germany thinks I'm sarcastic when i tell her how popular they are.'

In Germany, a receptionist at the factory - which is closed for the summer - said: 'We produce quality shoes and are fortunate that a high profile clientele in America have taken them to their hearts.'




source: dailymail