Frequently Asked Questions

Z-CoiL does not make half sizes. Instead, all Z-CoiL Footwear ships with an extra 3mm insert that makes up 1/2 size. For example if you wear a size 7.5 you would buy a Z-CoiL size 8. Simply add the 3mm insert below the primary insole and you will we walking in a 7.5.

Call us at 800.268.6239 if you have questions.

Yes! Many customers report that they actually feel more stable in their Z-CoiL footwear than in regular shoes. The coil in the heel is cone-shaped, and so it compresses straight down, following the line of least resistance rather than tipping.

Z-CoiL-wearers have reported significant relief from the pain associated with many medically-diagnosed conditions, including:

• Back pain and sciatica
• Heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, and metatarsal pain
• Arthritis and other common joint pains

The relief our customers experience may be immediate, or may occur gradually, over days or even weeks. Some people enjoy complete relief from pain when wearing their Z-CoiL shoes; others achieve only partial relief, though they may be able to reduce the amount of pain medication they take.

Most people get used to wearing the footwear right away. Others may take several hours or even a couple of days to adjust to the extraordinary feeling of the shoes. If this is the case, we suggest you wear your Z-CoiL shoes for a few hours each day at first, and gradually increase that time until you feel more comfortable in them. It is also normal to experience some soreness in your legs during the first few weeks of wearing Z-CoiL shoes, due to the increased mobility they provide. If you continue to experience pain in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, or back while wearing your Z-CoiL footwear, give us a call.

Small rocks or loose materials may occasionally get caught in the coil, but they should be easy to remove with a simple shake. We do recommend caution around cords, wires, hoses, and chairs with rungs, which may catch in the coil.

Yes, but be careful not to let the floor mat or pedals catch on the coil. Also be aware that the shoes thick cushioning may reduce your feel for the pedals. You may need to move your seat back an inch or so to compensate for the thickness of the forefoot cushioning. If you feel unsafe driving in your Z-CoiL footwear, wear other shoes.

Our customers have reported using their Z-CoiL shoes for walking, running, hiking, golf, and more, although we do not recommend them for sports that involve significant lateral movement, like tennis. You need to be the judge of how Z-CoiL products will work for you. Many people have been able to become more active and get back in the game because of their Z-CoiL footwear.

You certainly can. In fact, Z-CoiL footwear makes an ideal footbed for custom orthotics. Z-CoiL footwear is engineered with a built-in orthotic so it serves as an excellent support for your custom orthotic. Many people find they don't need a custom orthotic in Z-CoiL's.

Not at all. The Z-CoiL heel, when uncompressed, is only about an inch higher than the cushioned forefoot. However when you add pressure to the heel when walking or standing, the heel compresses significantly. When walking the heel is level or just slightly higher than the forefoot. This minimal heel rise is beneficial to most people, helping them achieve a healthier, more erect standing posture.

The steel coils can last a lifetime, though the rubber heel pad will probably last between six months and two years with normal use. People who put their Z-CoiL footwear to hard use may wear through the pad in three months, while those who go easy on their footwear have been known to wear them for several years. Fortunately, even if the heel pad does wear out, there's no need to buy a new pair of shoes. The coil/heel pad assembly can easily be replaced. By comparison, most running or comfort shoes with EVA or gel-based soles have a life of 200 miles or 3 months, at which time their cushioning is reduced by 50%.

We do make an Enclosed Heel System™(ECS) that comes standard with our Prime Work Boot and Outback Safety Toe styles, and can also be retrofitted on our other styles. The ECS is designed to address workplace safety concerns, in environments where objects are more likely to get caught in an open coil. The molded foam material that encases the coil slows the speed at which the coil compresses, which dampens its shock-absorbing capabilities to some degree, although a stiffer coil also proves useful when a person is picking up heavy objects. At first, many people are taken aback by the appearance of our shoes; however, those who put them on and experience significant relief from pain soon see them in a different light!

We also offer a trial period of 30-days so you an be sure Z-CoiL is for you. We ask that you wear them during your regular schedule everyday. If they don't perform as we promise, return in used condition for a full refund. Click here to read more: Risk-Free, 30-Day Trial Period.

Z-CoiL Footwear is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the products are designed and engineered. Our products are manufactured in South Korea.

Because Z-CoiL footwear is designed for pain relief and incorporates a medical-grade orthotic, you may be able to get a prescription for the footwear from your doctor and receive some level of reimbursement from your insurance company. Check your health plan to see whether your insurance covers prescription orthotics. Some employers also have safety or workplace shoe reimbursement programs. Check with your HR Department. In addition, some Z-CoiL distributors accept Flexible Spending Account (FSA) cards with your doctor's prescription. You can then use your doctor's prescription and store receipt as justification for the medical expense.

No, but you will land softer.