Shoes Without A Partner
A new online 'match makers' service for single shoes
Shoes Without A Partner (SWAP Shoes) is an exciting new resource for adults and children requiring single shoes or mismatched pairs for different sized feet.
An Australian based initiative, set up by the e-Bility.com web site, SWAP Shoes makes it easier for amputees and people with disabilities (such as polio, oedema, arthritis, club foot) to exchange quality shoes with other people in a similar situation in Australia.
The original idea for this project came from Rod Stern. "I have boxes of brand new single shoes accumulating in my cupboard that I can't wear and that are too good to throw out. I knew there had to be others in a similar situation, maybe even my mirror image is out there somewhere! Finding that person would be great, as I have just had to purchase another pair of my favourite shoes. This would be the 6th pair (ie 12th pair) of these shoes I have bought in 4 years and at a cost of around $120 a pair it can get quite expensive."
SWAP Shoes is a database of available single shoes. To be listed shoes must be brand new (unworn and undamaged). They can be pairs, mixed size pairs or single shoes of any style or size. It is also helpful if they are a current design (so the matching pair can easily be ordered from any store that sells the same style).
Anyone can add shoes to the directory. Perhaps you have a spare shoe you can't wear, or a pair of new shoes you purchased but for some reason were not suitable. We are also happy to accept donations of single shoes from shoe manufacturers or retailers and make them available through the SWAP Shoes service.
Launched in October 2005, the service is already receiving positive feedback.
Tom wrote, "I think you are on to something. My feet are two different sizes. Most shoes I just buy larger shoes but for hiking long distances I have to buy two pairs of boots to get a good fitting pair... and throw away the other pair. Good fit is essential in long distance hiking and backpacking, which I love."
Tim's email sums up the general response "You offer a great service and site. I have many pairs of shoes and no longer have any mates for my other shoes."
If you are tired of buying 2 pairs of shoes to get 1 pair that fits or buying a pair when you only need one shoe, then hopefully SWAP Shoes will save you some money and frustration! Check it out at www.swapshoes.com
Contact:
Sandra Vassallo, Manager e-Bility Pty Ltd
Phone: 02 98102216
Rod Stern
Phone: 02 9858 4688
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