I must admit since childhood I had Rieker brand stuck in my mind as maker of "those unappealing orthopedic shoes" for nurses etc. However couple years ago I came across their range of "normally wearable" shoes and fell in love instantly.

Rieker is a reputable shoe brand, as they are manufacturing "healthy footwear" since 1874. I believe the "Antistress" innovation has only appeared in this century, however it works a treat. As Rieker advertises (you have to look out for advertising, they don't seem to need to spend much on it) their Antistress shoes are lighter, flexible, shock absorbing, roomier, have four different types of soles (OPU - Soles (Polyurethane), ORubber Soles, OMulticolour Soles and OThermoplastic Rubber (Moulded)) and are manufactured in Rieker-specific way - apparently a single shoe can be made of 50 different pieces! Obviously I can't review manufacturing process or types of soles, but the rest is absolutely true - Rieker are the most comfortable and flexible shoes I have ever worn - I have had several pairs over the years and have been happy with every single one of them, covering casual trainer-type shoes, sandals, formal and leisure ones. They are all comfortable-type shoes, so no high heel stilettos nor wedges.

They are generally made of very soft leather and are soft inside, too. They also passed heavy weight maternity-wear test during my pregnancy with highest grades. They are quite easy to care for with good quality leather care products and can be long lasting if taken care for. Two-three years is a minimum you will get out of them if worn regularly. I also find designs quite simple, suitable for everyday wear, but not extremely fashionable (hence you will still be ok to wear them next season).

Price-wise I would say definitely good value for money. Riekers are not cheap, but they are quality leather shoes - for that prices ranging from approx. £40 to £120 (depending on type of shoe) I think is not much.

Highly recommended!