Friday, April 10, 2009

Cleaning Instructions For SAS® Sandals

Betty Ensor Thomas ..... Whether we feel the warmth yet or not, it's Spring. And with Spring in mind, it's time to pull out our SAS® sandals and get them ready to wear for another season.

In every box of SAS's casual sandal line they include cleaning instructions for the insoles. If you are like me, those instructions seem to disappear. So, here they are with a few of my extras thrown in.


These instructions are for the casual smooth leather styles Comfy, Cozy, Duo, Huarache, Huggy, Naples,  Relaxed, Sanibel, Sorrento, and any older styles that have the SAS Tripad Comfort® Insoles including their Men's style Bravo.  These instructions also work for SAS® Styles Capri, Quatro, Sunburst, and Tabby.


1. Undo all buckles and straps. Use a toothbrush to remove any debris including where the upper meets the insole.


2. Use SAS® Leather Cream to clean the leather uppers. This will remove dirt and stains and also help replenish the moisture to the leather. Buff dry.  (For Nubuck Sandals simply brush with SAS's Nubuck Brush).


3. Use SAS® Sole Cleaner to clean the soles. The sole cleaner is good to remove stubborn stains including grass stains.


4. Stir one tablespoon of any mild, liquid laundry detergent into one cup (8 ounces) of cool water until sudsy. (This mixture is enough to clean up to three pairs of sandals).


5. Scrub the insoles clean with a toothbrush.


6. Blot dry with a clean, soft cloth.


7. Let dry naturally, away from any artificial heat. Drying time will vary depending on the amount of liquid used. Allow up to 24 hours.


8. After you are sure they are dry, brush with a dry toothbrush to refurbish the nap.


9. Fasten all buckles, and you're ready to go.



These instructions are for the dress smooth leather styles Caress, Strippy, Sunburst, and Suntimer or any other styles with the smooth insoles:


1. Undo all buckles and straps. Use a toothbrush to remove any debris, including where the upper meets the insole.


2. Use SAS® Leather Cream as in Number 2 above.


3. Use SAS® Sole Cleaner as in Number 3 above.


4. SAS® does not have a recommendation for cleaning the insoles of their dress shoes, so I offer this information. DO NOT use the Leather Cream. I suggest using a clean dry cloth with ONLY one drop of the sole cleaner. Use this on any trouble spots and use sparingly. The use of too much of any product will make the insoles slick.


Following these instructions should make your sandals ready for another season. BUT don't forget to always find out what is new each year.



NOW you can buy online at: ensorshoes.com



Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Rd - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458
Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993

Made in USA

Updated October 21, 2017

Friday, March 27, 2009

Why Shouldn't You Buy Shoes Over The Internet?

Betty Ensor Thomas.....When I originally wrote this in 2009 purchasing over the Internet was new. Now it seems that more and more people enjoy the convenience of doing so. 

I still stand by my words written eight years ago, but to be competitive in today's market we now are also selling online at:  ensorshoes.com. So, if you have been wearing the same Style & Size and are not having any foot problems you can go to our website or call us at 615-834-7458.



With easy access to everything on the internet one would think that buying your favorite shoes online would be a good thing. Think again.

There was a time that if a shoe said 7 /12 Narrow that shoe would fit me. It didn't matter how much pain I had to go through to get it broken in, it was a 7 1/2 Narrow and that was my size period.


When we measured my foot several years ago I learned that I measured an 8 Slim. After weeks of total denial (ladies you'll understand that) I realized that my feet had grown and that I really needed to bite the bullet and start wearing the size that actually fits my feet.


BUT, size 8's don't work for me in every style. It is however, my base size AND the first size I try on.


I still wear 7 1/2 N's in most sandals. I wear 8 S's in most dress shoes and I wear 8 1/2 S in athletic style shoes. Each size reflects the last that the shoes are made on, the type of socks or hosiery I wear with them, and the way I want them to feel (which is comfortable from the very beginning).



SO, It's very important to have your feet measured and fitted periodically by a trained professional.


At Ensor's Comfort Shoes we not only know what factors make up your base size, we also know how different styles and lasts fit. We also listen to our customers and help them in determining the proper size and comfort in the styles they want.


There are many variable to getting the best possible fit. Toe length and width are only two of those variables. Always remember that measuring the feet is just the first step in finding the correct size.


When shopping for shoes always make sure to tell your salesperson what type of shoe you are looking for and what kind of problems if any you are having. At Ensor’s Comfort Shoes will will try to help you pick out the best style(s) to meet your needs.


Buying over the internet may seem like an easy way to buy your favorite shoes. But, IF the shoe doesn't fit...................




Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Rd - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458
Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993

Updated October 21, 2017

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Taking Care Of Your SAS® Shoes

Betty Ensor Thomas ..... SAS® shoes are crafted from high quality, soft leathers. SAS is proud of their craftmanship and we offer these tips to keep your leather shoes looking good.

GENERAL CLEANING and MAINTENANCE.

We suggest cleaning your shoes on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This not only helps the look of your shoes, but also protects them from damaging dirt and oil, thereby helping your shoes last longer.

1. Remove laces from lace-up shoes. Loosen tongue to allow the shoes to ventilate.


2. Use a soft brush to remove any excess dirt on the outside and inside of the shoes. An old soft toothbrush would be good to use.


3. Use a soft cloth and SAS® Leather Conditioner to wipe off the shoes. The leather conditioner uses nautral oils to revitialize the finish of the shoes without affecting the color or drying out the leather. For stubborn stains you can use a past of mild soap and lukewarm water.


4. Clean the soles with SAS® Sole Cleaner and a soft cloth. This cleaner is great for removing ground-in dirt, grass stains and whatever else you find on the bottom of your shoes. Sole Cleaner may be used sparingly on lighter colors of leathers to remove stubborn stains and scuffs, but may remove the finish if scrubbed to hard. If used on the leather follow up with SAS Leather Conditioner to replenish the moisture to those areas.


5. Allow your shoes to dry thoroughly away from artifical heat sources.


6. Use SAS® Unscuffit to fill in and cover scuff marks if you have any. The Unscuffit needs to applied as thinly as possible and allowed to dry between applications. On lighter colored shoes it may require several layers. It does not take long for thin layers to dry.


7. Apply SAS® Soft Leather Cream. This cream is available in colors to match SAS Shoes and is a moisturizing creams that not only restores the color of the shoe, but helps maintain the softness of the leather. Apply a thin even layer on entire shoe. Do not apply to thickly. Allow to dry completely.


8. Buff and shine with a soft cloth or SAS's Horsehair Shoe Brush.


9. Put in clean laces and you're ready to go.



EXTRA THINGS YOU CAN DO. Using SAS® Cedar Shoe Trees will help your shoes retain their shape much longer.The cedar absorbs moisture and odors leaving the shoes much fresher. SAS also sells "Cedar Socks" a bag of cedar chips that has the same absorbing effect.


If your shoes become wet for any reason let them dry naturally indoors. Do not put your shoes in a dryer or near any heat source. It will cause the soles to warp and the leather to shrink and become hard. Use cedar shoe trees as mentioned above or stuff the shoes with crumbled up paper.



DON'T'S. A couple of things that you never should do.

Don't wear the same pair of shoes everyday. Allowing a pair of shoes a rest gives them the time to dry out naturally. By doing this the life of the shoe will be much longer.

Don't pull your shoes off using your other foot. Forcing them off this way may damage the heels and scuff the toes.




CUSTOMER TIPS. We're always learning from our customers and this gentleman said that before he wears a new pair of shoes he polishes them.


This is actually a great idea. Not only does this give your shoes an extra layer of protection against outside forces ,but IF you scuff your shoe, maybe you'll only scuff that extra layer. I suggest this to all my customers now, especially those buying White, Bone or any of the lighter colors.


SAS® is proud of the quality of their shoes and their shoe care products. We are proud to sell SAS's quality shoes and products in our store. Most of their shoe care products can be used on other brands. We'll always happy to answer any questions our customers may have.


At Ensor's Comfort Shoes we always want our customers to get not only the most comfortable pair of shoes they'll ever own, but also their money's worth. By using the routine maintenance suggested above, the life of those shoes should be extended.




Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Road

Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458

Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993






Made in USA

Updated October 21, 2017

Monday, February 23, 2009

Betty's Favorite SAS® Styles & Colors

Betty Ensor Thomas.....As the author of this blog I'd like to talk about the SAS® styles that I wear and why. Certainly looks play an important factor in my choices, but comfort and fit take the center stage.

Sometimes customers state "you have to wear these shoes because you work here, right?"  Well, YEAH! But, I don't have to wear them anywhere else if I don't want to.

The truth is, there are not many shoes in my closet right now that are not SAS®.  My feet deserve to be comfortable.  While I do own a few other brands, SAS® Shoes are my choice for my everyday shoes.

I like to be a little fashionable and very comfortable and the following SAS® styles fit the bill. SO, here's what is in my closet:

Freetime in Charcoal Nubuck. Our Number 1 selling, most comfortable style., and what I wear daily in the wintertime.  It has a broad base, wide toe box, study heel counter and SAS's traditional Supersoft soles. It also has the removable (and washable) insole that molds to your foot. The charcoal nubuck makes it look a little dressier.  These and a pair of Thorlo® Walking Socks and I'm good to go all day.

Clog in Black. A clog version of Freetime. It has all the comfort features of Freetime, but with a more updated style (not to mention the convenience of just slipping your feet in and out.

Easier in Black. A dressier looking wedge that I wear with suits and pantsuits. Unbelieveably comfortable. It has non-binding elastic over your instep that gives as you walk, yet helps keep your foot in place. I can stand and walk in these for 8 hours.

Metro in Charcoal Nubuck.  A simple little flat with a little embellishment on the top.

Simplify in Black Crocodile. A simple little flat with a little flashier look.

Duo in White and in Black. My favorite, favorite sandal in the entire world. It's open and airy like a sandal should be. It's adjustable in the front. The ankle strap has elastic which makes it easy on and off. And, the insoles can be cleaned. The sole is SAS's traditional Supersoft® sole, so you can stand or walk in it all day.

STRIPPY in Bone Patent Leather. I've been waiting for this sandal. It's a dressy sandal on a little higher wedge. It's cute, it's dressy, and it's comfortable.

TOUR in White with Silver Accents (Leather/Mesh Combo).  Everyone needs an Active Comfort Shoe.

Just about every occasion is covered by these styles.



NOW you can buy online at:  ensorshoes.com




Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Road

Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458

Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993



Made in USA


Updated October 21, 2017

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

TheTop Ten Ways To Tell If Your Shoes Are Worn Out

Betty Ensor Thomas.....I get asked every day “how long will these shoes last?” My answer is usually 1 to 3 years depending on the individual.

Some people replace their work shoes every 6 months, but it’s not uncommon for a customer to come in that states that they’ve been wearing the same pair for 10 years.


Please don’t make the mistake of thinking your shoes are still good just because they still look new on the outside, or they still feel good on your feet. A worn out pair of shoes can lead to other problems.


If you are unsure check out “The Top 10 Ways To Tell If Your Shoes Are Worn Out” below or bring your shoes in and ask us. We will give you our honest opinion.


1. There is noticeable wear on the heels ( especially uneven wear).


2. The sole is worn thin or cracked in the ball of the foot area.


3. The shoes are out of shape.


4. The insoles are dried, cracked and/or hard as a rock.


5. The inside linings are worn out.


6. The leather is cracked or split.


7. Your toes hit the end of the shoe.


8. Your feet hurt.


9. Other parts of your body hurt, including ankles, knees, hip and/or back.


10. The soles start separating from the soles.



NOW you can buy online at:  ensorshoes.com



Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Rd - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615-424-9704)
Keeping your feet happy and healthy since 1993

Updated October 21, 2017

Monday, February 9, 2009

Take Care of Your Feet ... They Take You Everwhere You Go

Betty Ensor Thomas.....I probably take better care of my feet than I do the rest of my body. Maybe it’s because I’ve been in the shoe business since I was 18. Maybe it’s because that I’ve seen a lot of other peoples feet. And, maybe it’s just because I’m a big baby and just can’t stand to have my feet hurt.

Which ever reason it is, I do try to take care of my feet and constantly recommend that my customers do the same. Here’s what the experts generally recommend:


1. Inspect you feet daily for signs of any trauma such as redness, blisters, cuts, cracks, swelling or color changes. This is especially important if you are a diabetic.


2. Do not trim or shave corns or calluses.


3. Bathe you feet daily using a mild soap. Use a pumice stone to gently remove callused skin. Do not soak your feet too long - it will destroy the natural oils in the skin. Rinse off all soap and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.


4. Apply lotion or petroleum jelly to feet and heels. Avoid using between the toes.


5. Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don’t cut out or dig at corners.


6. Wear clean socks or stockings each day. Do not wear any that are too short or too tight.


7. Wear comfortable shoes that fit. Pick shoes for the right activity. Switch shoes from day to day. This allows your shoes time to air out and dry between wearings.


8. Avoid walking barefooted.


9. If planning outdoor activities, always apply sunblock to exposed areas of the feet. Reapply if feet become wet

.
10. Use foot powder if your feet sweat or are prone to athlete’s foot.

11. Exercise regularly to maintain and improve the circulation in your feet.


12. Do not ignore foot problems and do not allow problems to get worse. Seek attention from your physician. It is not normal for feet to hurt.


We have recently started carrying Citrusway Footcare Products that are All Natural and Made in USA.  We highly recommend these products.  I will add pictures of their products soon, in the meantime you can check them out at:  https://www.citrusway.com/



Remember, if your feet hurt - you hurt all over!

NOW you can order online at:  ensorshoes.com


Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Rd - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 424-9704
Keeping your feet happy and healthy since 1993


Updated October 21, 2017

Monday, February 2, 2009

Good Customer Service is Still Alive and Well

Maybe not everywhere, but at Ensor’s Comfort Shoes that is what you will get.

All of our inventory is on the main floor, and our customers are free to wait on themselves if that is what they want. But, we offer full service to those who want it. We also encourage it.


When we opened our store in 1993, we knew we had great products, but we understood that to stay in business we had to treat each and everyone of our customers as quests in our home.


Every customer is greeted as they walk in our store. Every customer is asked if we may help them. We are happy to answer questions, help in picking our styles and colors. We are happy to measure every person’s feet. We are happy to personally place shoes on our customers feet.


Many come in our store with specific needs and/or problems. We listen to what our customers have to say. We feel that it is very important to gather all the facts before suggesting styles and sizes.


We are happy to provide these services with an always happy attitude, for without our customers we would not be in business or could not stay in business.


Many of our customers thank us for our help and being so nice. We would like to thank them for their support and for telling so many other about us.


For you convenience you can now order online at:  ensorshoes.com



Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Rd - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458
Keeping your feet Healthy and Happy since 1993.

Updated October 21, 2017

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

SO ... You Think SAS® Are Just For Old People?

Honestly, that’s what I used to think. I thought of SAS® as shoes for mothers and grandmas and nurses.

When we opened our store in 1993 I was terrified that I was going to have to wear those “ugly” shoes. Thankfully, that did not happen. I found several styles that I actually liked.


Now, that does not mean that I would be caught dead in all the styles that SAS® makes, but my feet would never have a reason to complain if I did.


Over the past 23 years that we have been in business SAS® has strived not only to come out with more and more comfortable styles, they have come out with some looks that are geared towards a younger market.


Now we are seeing them on the covers of a fashion magazines. IF you want your feet to feel good and still maintain a little fashion, SAS® is a brand that you should consider.


If you like dressier flats there are styles like Simplify and Metro. If you like a little heel they have Easier and Dream.  Maria is a cute Mary Jane style, and Scenic is a wonderful Ballerina Flat.

SAS® Sandals are to die for as in looks and comfort. My personal favorites are Duo for a casual look and the new Strippy for a dressier look. SAS® has a large selection of dress and casual sandals.


SAS® Walking Shoes can not be described by any other word that COMFORT. They are available in 5 colors in smooth leather, and one colors in Nubuck. My choice is the Charcoal Nubuck for a younger look. If you plan on doing anything that involves a lot of walking or even standing Freetime for Women and Time Out Men are definitely worth trying on.


We all want to look good. We all want to feel good. SAS® Shoes can give us the best of both.


Remember, if your feet hurt you hurt all over. If you’re feet are comfortable that smile on your face shows through.


NOW you can buy online at:  ensorshoes.com



Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Road

Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458

Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993









#SasNashvilleTN    #ShopLocalNashvilleTN    #ShopSmall


Updated October 20, 2017

Monday, January 19, 2009

Let SAS® Shoes be your Shock Absorbers

Betty Ensor Thomas.....SAS®  states in their brochure that “In an average lifetime, a person’s feet will carry them between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. That’s six to eight times around the earth. And for the entire distance, our feet will be our levers, balancers and shock absorbers. It makes good sense to keep them comfortable and healthy.”

This statement is so true, but let’s take it a little further.


Can you imagine driving down any street without shock absorbers on your car? Can you imagine how your body would feel after a long drive?


Our support system begins at the ground and works it’s way up. With every step we take it affects not only our feet, but our ankles, knees, hips and back and areas in between. Wearing comfortable shoes are part of the good care our feet (and the rest of our bodies) need and deserve.


When most of us start to have aches and pains we rarely even think that they might or could be caused by wearing the wrong type of shoes, the wrong size shoes, or even shoes that are worn out. And, until someone points it out to them, few will ever connect their shoes to pain in other parts of their body.


Now, that is not to say all our aches and pains are caused by or can be cured by wearing the right type shoe. But, it’s a good place to start.


SAS® shoes are designed with these things in mind. They make shoes specifically designed with broader bases for even support, broader and deeper toe boxes so your toes can spread out like nature intended, sturdy heel counters for support and stability, and lightweight soles with millions of air bubbles in them to cushion every single step you take.


In addition to the lightweight soles there are several styles for both men and women that have exclusive SAS® green odor resistant Tripad® cushions under the ball of the foot and the heel which are the main pressure points when you are walking or staying.


These styles also have exclusive SAS Selfset® Foot Beds that mold to the shape of the foot and create a custom footprint. These Foot Beds are removable, washable and replaceable.


We invite you to come by our store, have your feet measured and try on some SAS® shoes and discover their comfort.


We keep good shock absorbers on our cars, are not our bodies even more important. Remember, our feet take us everywhere we go. Comfortable shoes ARE part of the good care our bodies need.


NOW you can shop online at:  ensorshoes.com




Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Road

Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458

Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 1993





Made in USA


Updated October 20, 2017


Monday, January 12, 2009

Get Your Feet Measured

It’s important to have your feet measured and fitted periodically, especially by a trained professional..

The size and shape of your feet change from year to year. Over time, your feet become wider and longer and the natural padding under your heel and forefoot thins. Years of use also flatten your arches and stiffen your feet and ankles. You size can also change because of weight loss and gain. There are many other factors


Most experts agree on the following:


1. Once a year measure both feet by length and width. Both feet may not be exactly the same size. Select the shoe size that fits your largest foot.


2. When you try new shoes, wear the kind of socks or stockings that you intend to wear with them. Avoid socks and stockings that bunch up or are too tight.


3. Make sure that the widest part of your foot comfortably fits the widest part of the shoe.

Test shoes by standing on one foot at a time. Wiggle your toes and stand on your tiptoes. Shoes should bend at the same place where your foot bends.

4. Never buy a shoe thinking it needs to be stretched out or "broken in" before it is comfortable. Purchase a shoe that is comfortable right from the start.


5. Be sure that you have one-half inch of space from the end of your longest toe to the tip of the shoe.


6. Some experts state buying your shoes at the middle or end of the day to account for normal swelling.



There are many variable to getting the best possible fit. Toe length and width are only two of those variables. Always remember that measuring the feet is just the first step in finding the correct size.


When shopping for shoes always make sure to tell your salesperson what type of shoe you are looking for and what kind of problems if any you are having. At Ensor’s Comfort Shoes will will try to help you pick out the best style(s) to meet your needs.



The size and shape of your feet do change from year to year. It's important to be fitted by an expert, and while we still believe this you can NOW order from us online at: ensorshoes.com







Ensor's Comfort Shoes
4022 Nolensville Rd, Nashville, TN  37211  (615) 834-7458
Keeping your feet healthy and happy since 11993




Updated October 20, 2017


Monday, January 5, 2009

About ENSOR'S COMFORT SHOES

In the 1990's the marketplace was changing. Small businesses were being pushed out of the way, and so was the full service quality shoe stores

Nashville at that time was not lacking for shoe stores. One could turn any corner and purchase a pair of shoes, IF you had a normal foot and IF you wore a normal size. However, very few stores were willing to adequately stock anything other than the "norm."


What Nashville was lacking was a shoe store that offered full service, quality products, and someone that was willing to stock a wide variety of styles, sizes and widths.


In 1993 we decided that we wanted to be that shoe store, and there was no question what brand we wanted to sell. SAS® shoes already had a reputation of quality, comfort, and durability. They had a wide variety of styles for both Men and Women, and they made those styles in a wide range of sizes and widths, and their products were all made in the U.S.A.


On November 22nd, 1993 we opened our store for business, and now as we begin our 17th year we continue to offer SAS's quality products, and our own quality service to our customers.


We offer full real old fashioned service in our store. So, we invite you to come by, sit down, get your feet measured and let us fit you in some of the most comfortable footwear you'll ever put on.


In October 2017 as we approach our 25th year in business we will continuing the same.  Soon we will be adding a few other Brands and Products.  Our goal is to offer our customers the best of the best.



Our store hours are: Monday-Friday 10-6:00, and Saturday 10-5:00. We are closed on Sunday’s and most major holidays.


NOW you can buy online at:  ensorshoes.com




Ensor's Comfort Shoes - 4022 Nolensville Road - Nashville, TN 37211 - (615) 834-7458
Keeping your feet Healthy and Happy since 1993

Updated October 20, 2017