Customer Reviews MBT Chapa

The MBT Chapa looks a little different than the other ones; nice red color patches, the rest is grey and beige. On the outside the sole looks as if it’s not as anchored as other models, which proves to be true by walking in them. They do not force you as strongly into the typical rolling movement as some of the other MBTs do. They are really light-weight, feel pretty soft on your feet and not as heavy as the other ones I have, much more flexible. No pressure on your feet at all, very comfortable to wear. Guess if you do have any foot problems that's really nice. And this soft impression also shows if you walk in them. They are more forgiving if you don't roll your feet in the correct way, which is described on the included DVD. I would highly recommend them for newbies of MBT, who are not used to walking in this kind of shoe or who want to switch from Fit Flops to MBT.

I hesitated for a couple of years of spending the money for MBTs, but had a leg and knee problem and was hoping it would help. Since I am 77 years old, I also worried that I would have a hard time walking in them. I have no problem walking, but do have a problem of standing, especially on a slant or uneven ground. I do think they have helped my knees and legs, but will hold my opinion until I have worn them a few more months. I have worn them a month now, with not too much problem.

This is my second pair of MBTs, the first is the black leather boots (very cool). I like the look of these shoes (I have them in red) more than pretty much the rest of the MBT casual line. I wear them on the concrete floors of my workshop nearly every day. I can’t vouch for any claims to improved leg muscles or extra calories burned while standing still, but I spend probably 4-8 hours on my feet each day, and these shoes are a huge improvement over thinner-soled shoes. The cushioning is good, but I found the pressure on the ball of my foot was too much (I have neuromas), so had to use 3/4 inserts (not needed with Danskos). The shoes comfortably accommodate the inserts. Walking in the MBTs is not my forte - living in the city I have walked perhaps a mile or more at a time doing errands, and find them to be awkward and slow (I like to move fast), which probably adversely affects my posture. Driving in them can be tricky, too - gotta remember there’s 2" under the balls of my feet. Overall, I’m glad to have them, but would hesitate to shell out the big bucks for another pair.

I love MBTs and have owned other pair. However, this toebox is narrower than others and has given me corns on both feet, which have limited my ability to wear them. Disappointing, since they are a major investment! If you tend toward B+ width, I'd go up a 1/2 size or choose a model with a wider toebox.

1. Zappos service is great! Could not have asked for more! I found the MBT true to size. Reading other reviews - I ordered 1/2 size up only to exchange an 8.5 for an 8. The Chapa MBT DOES reduce the impact on my knees. When walking my knees feel good! Also, I stand up straighter in my MBTs. I wear them as much as a can! I have NOT experienced the workout/improved leg tone. But I'm still happy with my purchase!