Antonia Saint Dunbar calls for a transformation in women’s footwear design, emphasizing comfort and health on International Women’s Day.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Antonia Saint Dunbar, CEO and Founder of Antonia Saint NY, is advocating for a significant transformation in the design and manufacturing of women’s footwear. Dunbar, known for her prior work with the company THINX, which revolutionized menstrual health, is committed to addressing women’s comfort and health in the often overlooked arena of footwear.
Dunbar is urging women to reconsider their footwear choices, emphasizing the importance of materials, construction, and design. She contends that the fashion and footwear industries have long neglected women’s well-being. Speaking to PR Newswire, she noted, “Women cannot continue to sacrifice comfort for style,” highlighting the ongoing disconnection between aesthetics and health in shoe design.
Research from the American Podiatric Medical Association indicates that about 75% of American adults suffer from foot problems, with women particularly affected. The data suggests that over half of women wear uncomfortable shoes, leading to serious issues such as bunions, chronic pain, and decreased mobility. Despite these alarming statistics, major brands tend to prioritize style over the functional and health-oriented aspects of footwear.
Dunbar views this trend as a public health issue and believes that the problem extends beyond discomfort, posing risks of chronic pain and mobility limitations that impact overall quality of life.
At Antonia Saint NY, Dunbar has developed ergonomic footwear that challenges conventional design. The company’s latest launch, the Fab Five VIDA Collection, features high heels that blend elegance with comfort, incorporating patented technology aimed at improving support and cushioning.
The collection includes heels taller than typical comfort shoe offerings, equipped with the Slim SoftSurround System™ designed for all-day wear. However, Dunbar faces significant industry resistance, with many manufacturers reluctant to adopt innovative, health-focused methods that challenge traditional production practices driven by cost-saving measures.
On this International Women’s Day, Dunbar’s call to action is clear: she is encouraging consumers to prioritize their health and demand higher standards from footwear manufacturers. Dunbar asserts that women should influence the market by advocating for designs that enhance their lives rather than compromise their well-being.
Dunbar emphasized the need for companies to innovate and prioritize women’s needs, stating, “We need companies that are willing to innovate, listen to women’s needs, and manufacture products that truly serve and uplift us.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
