Helle Comfort by Romu Reptile-Zip Loafer Review

FlashBack Friday

KA-POW!!! BOOM! WHIZZ! BANG!!! Throw in a sha-zzaaam and you might get a sense of how I feel when I zip on these flashy Spanish-made shoes. These Helle Comforts by Romu are one of my most commented upon shoes in my collection. Naturally their flashy red patent leather and snakeskin-like pattern draws the eye, bringing raised brows and comments like “Wow...those are some shoes”! In general, women engage me in shoe talk more often than men but I get the most comments from the guys when I wear these gems.

I don't necessarily feel like a flashy person even though I admittedly love red shoes...but in all honesty, it is the pure comfort of these treads that wooed me. The patent leather is incredibly pliant and the insole cups my heel and arch in a way that makes me grin—every time!!! The polyurethane outsloes have been long wearing and the patent leather still looks “shiny” new. I also adore the way the little foot-shaped zipper-pull jingles happily with my stride. Their shaping is unremarkable but that red patent leather and dreamy comfort cannot be denied and I had to have them.

I most love to wear my Helle's during the holidays and on gray rainy days. Wearing them in full sunlight is still a bit too much for me but I love the way they brighten ones day when the gray sky is dumping rain. Even though they are not technically waterproof; the patent leather finish does a bang-up job of repelling water—which is perfect for living in the Great Northwest.

These shoes were originally offered in red, black, and cognac patent leathers and this discontinued style can still be found on ebay.com--though they are in short supply. Helle Comfort has continued to make shoes and are carried by local comfort shoe stores as well as internet locations like Nordstrom.com and zappos.com in case you wish to see the new styles they have up their sleeves—or down their socks.

Fitting Notes:

European whole sizing. For the most part, Helle Comfort's do not run long at all. I bought mine in my usual size 39 which often feels a touch too big but the Helle's feel perfect in length. This particular style does have a removable insole making them quite orthotic friendly and a fun break from boring 'ol sneaks. Many of their sandals are also orthotic friendly and come in patterns and materials that lend a dressier look. Just be sure to buy your shoes long enough and you are sure to love your Helle's as much as I love mine.