The North Face Sydney Shoe : A Casual Classic

I'm a sucker for Mary Jane shoes. Can't have too many pairs. The North Face's Sidney gives this classic style a contemporary twist with casual design and natural materials.

I love the wooden button closure on the strap, the feminine but not too girly shape, the soft metal-free suede nubuck upper. Several hip twenty-something co-workers have spontaneously complimented me on these shoes. Even a total stranger in an elevator told me, "Cool shoes."

The North Face has managed to make these shoes as comfy as they are eco-friendly. From the first day I slipped them on, they felt good on my feet. The Sidney works well with whatever I put on. I've been wearing them just about everywhere, with jeans, skirts, dress pants, capri pants, and casual pants. The Sidney's eco creds are stellar: a post-consumer recycled rubber outsole, plant-cellular fiber midsoles, and spun bamboo textile lining. About that lining­-I've worn these shoes without socks and the soft lining keeps my sometimes sweaty feet dry. (Now that it's fall I wear them with socks and the fit is still perfect.)

The Sidney comes in women's sizes six to 11. I think they run pretty true to size; I'm consistently a size seven, and these fit just right. The shoes I tested are all black, but they also come in a two-toned light and dark color, as well as a brown and green style.

Bottom Line: Because of Achilles and plantar fascia problems, I had to long ago give up wearing heels. So I appreciate that these cool shoes can look just as dressy and sophisticated. I really appreciate the care The North Face took to make these shoes with sustainably produced and recycled materials. --J.I. (Nov '08)

Price: $80, click on logo below to shop/purchase