So this web site came into being because it seemed as if women had fewer gear options than men, and I wanted to change that, or at least point it out. Well, ladies, it’s our lucky day because it turns out that in some cases, we DO have more gear options than men! In the shoe department, we are pulling ahead, at least in footwear styles. Don’t get me wrong, I know there is still a huge gap in the amount of technical footwear available for women vs. that available for men, but at least we can all take some comfort in the fact that we get to wear Mary Janes and the guys don’t; that is, unless they can find these fabulous shoes in their size. See, it sucks when you want a pair of shoes but can’t find the right fit, doesn’t it, boys?

I didn’t know what to expect from the “technical Mary Jane” category, but this offering from Merrell blew me away. They are super comfortable and supportive; just like a normal hiking shoe. Plus, they are cute! Cute as a button! They are the perfect match with a pair of shorts or an outdoorsy skirt. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about hiding your callouses or lack of pedicure – and you STILL look adorable. I don’t see how we can possibly lose with this one.

No more clunky, awkward sandals, no more supportless flip flops; Mary Janes are a great compromise and the Chameleon Arcs can handle just about any type of trail – really! They fit like low hikers – you won’t even miss the laces – and feature a lugged, nicely stiff sole for bopping over rocks and scooting down screes. I constantly look for excuses to wear these fab Mary Janes. I’m tempted to make a hiking date so I can demonstrate my ability to scamper up slopes while still being just ever so adorably feminine. I know, I know; I’m being all cutesy. But look at my shoes! How can I not inject some cute here?