Medical issues and Highland Dress

[Seumas52]

Greetings all, I wasn't sure what category to put this in and figured this was as good a choice as any. My question is about shoes with Highland dress. I have circulation problems in my legs, and an ulcer on my right ankle that keeps opening. Regular shoes of any type rub on the ankle making it bleed and drain. So the only shoes I can wear are the clog type with open sides and back which don't rub the ankle. Another problem is with swelling and trying to buy shoes with the left shoe size 10 and the right shoe size 12 is no easy matter.

I guess with daywear, its not much of a problem since they fit in with the casual look. But what about semi or formal wear? What's one supposed to do. I don't know if anyone here has the same problem or knows of someone who does, any suggestions would be of help.

[McMurdo]

I might suggest Dancing Ghillies, they are the shoes i use for Scottish Country Dancing and are made of a soft leather, they may just do the trick.

[Seumas52]

Thank you for your prompt reply. I have a pair of the dancing ghillies as I used to do Scottish country dancing. Yes, they are soft enough but unfortunately the laces rub on my ankle. But thanks for suggestion. Best wishes,

Seumas52

[Prester John]

Thank you for your prompt reply. I have a pair of the dancing ghillies as I used to do Scottish country dancing. Yes, they are soft enough but unfortunately the laces rub on my ankle. But thanks for suggestion. Best wishes,

Seumas52

For what it's worth, try applying some moleskin to your ankle.

It just might do the trick, and give you the comfort you need.

[JolyStNicholas]

I too vote for the Birkenstocks, they come in a variety of styles and are very comfortable.

[The Vicar]

I need to wear orthotics in my shoes after pounding the pavement/ deck/ parade square in Her Majesty's Service.

I cannot wear the same footwear as most folks because of the size of the orthotic insert. I can get away with a black toe covered Birkenstock for awhile but it hurts after awhile (they are open at the back).

My suggestion for you would be to choose footwear that is comfortable and dark (black). Shine them up nicely and keep them clean.

The shoes will not stick out as much if you also choose to wear dark (black or dark blue) hose along with your footwear. I wear black hose with my dress footwear (only Rockports fit me) so that the hose blend into the shoes.

Being a member of the clergy I tend to wear dark colours and nothing too flashy.

Hope this helps?

Robert "V"

[Dan R Porter]

I would think a nice pair of clogs would be fine for formal attire. Your health is improtant. If there are any nay-sayers that make themselves known should be ignored. If the rest of your outfit is smart your good to go!

[Seumas52]

Thank you for your reply and advice. I knew I came to the right place. The answer seems to be wear smart clogs that look good with the rest of oufit and don't worry if they are traditional or not. Health needs to be addressed first. Thanks guys.

Aye,
Seumas52

[Seumas52]

Thank you for your advice. It certainly makes a lot of good sense. I will find something suitable eventually. But I miss my ghillie brogues.

[KD Burke]

Thank you for your advice. It certainly makes a lot of good sense. I will find something suitable eventually. But I miss my ghillie brogues.

Just a thought, but....if it's the laces that are causing the problem, could you perhaps try an alternative method of tying them?

I