All the fashion mags are currently featuring runway shows by big-name designers like Gucci with models wearing amped up Birkenstocks—yes, those comfortable earth-mother shoes once associated only with granola eaters and lesbians. My own reaction is when did they ever disappear? I’m reasonably cool and my Boomer girlfriends are über-cool and we’ve always loved to shop in the comfort of Birkenstocks, Mephistos or similar feet-friendly attire. We have about-town walking-out comfortable shoes and when our Birkies are past their prime they make great slippers for around the house.

My own personal favourite brand is FitFlopsâ„¢ which are designed in the U.K. They’re not cheap but I absolutely love them and over the past few years have accumulated six pairs. They caress and cushion the soles of your feet in all the right places and provide good arch support, an old-lady essential. Since I’ve been wearing them I’ve found it impossible to go out the door in anything but.  Despite having a closet full of fabulous shoes which are hardly ever worn, I keep defaulting to my trusty FitFlops. I can motor for miles in them without getting blisters, rubbing, burning or cramping.

I highly suspect that Gucci, D&G and the other designers saw me and my trendsetter Boomer girlfriends out living life to the fullest in our comfies and figured they’d better jump on the bandwagon or miss out. As followers of fashion and a huge marketing demographic we can no longer be ignored. Hopefully it’s just a matter of time now until designers start releasing waistbands and dropping hem lengths too. We’re sick and tired of stupid fashions that cater only to the firm of flesh who weigh less than 100 lbs. and are 6 ft. tall.

In case you’re thinking about opting for the cheap knock-offs of Birkenstocks and similar brands, forget it. The quality just isn’t there and they don’t do the job. Our feet have to last us a few more decades yet and it’s not worth short-changing them. Amazon doesn’t yet carry foot transplants. Buy the real thing. Buy ’em to fit and happy motoring.