The rocker shoe craze isn’t going anywhere. Korean company Ryn is among the newer introductions to the American Market. Ho Hyung Lee, who worked at a sneaker factory in Pusan, Korea, developed Ryn footwear. When he had to leave his job for an emergency knee operation, he decided to develop a pair of shoes that would help him recover, and aid others plagued by joint pain and those who want to tone up.
The Ryn shoes have stability. The air tunnel system provides cushioning at impact while the shoe remains straight and resists pronation. The 45 degree angle of the rocker challenges major muscle groups more than most other rocker sole shoes, claims Ryn. An arch stimulation feature, a slight arch hump, stimulates the arch as you walk. Extra padding and depth make the shoe more comfortable and stable, without slipping. The shoes also accommodate orthotics with added depth in the footbed, which prevents heel slipping.
Air bags are one distinction in Ryn shoes. Since there’s a whole line ranging from sandals to workout shoes to dress shoes, each shoe type has its own type of air cushion. The Open Air Tunnel is for softer ride performance of sandals and casual shoes. The Encapsulated Air Tunnel Max is for the workout-type or athletic shoes. An Encapsulated Air Tunnel Stable is for outdoor and athletic shoes that require stability. The Encapsulated Air Tunnel Firm is for dress shoes, which require a firmer ride.
While there are athletic shoes in the line, we’re not sure whether they’re recommended just for walking, or if you could (or would) take them for a run or to participate in other sports. Even walking is good, and if these shoes get you to put on a few miles then we’re happy.
Ryn Footwear was developed in the early 90’s, about the same time as European competitor MBT was in development. Company information on Ryn says when its competitor came out, Ryn decided to continue its research and introduced its line of shoes in Korea. It now sells shoes in 22 countries worldwide including 160 Ryn Walking Centers in Korea.
Ryn Shoes (still heavily under construction)