Hope and Free...they're both Vintage 70s shoes that ECCO has reissued recently and they're both winning over young Americans once again. Soon, no doubt, Brit boys and gals will join the craze.
You may not know much about ECCO shoes,

so here's a bit of bumf. Back in the swinging 60s when the townspeople of Bredebro in Denmark got together to start the company, the original ECCO shoe strode onto the streets as a mark of "wearability in every detail - including the perfect fit."

The goal back then, as it is today: "unique comfort, fit, and flexibility." Only now there are many more styles to choose from. You have to wear a pair of ECCO shoes to know just how comfortable they are. Even podiatrists recommend them for people with foot problems. When you suffer from the side effects of HIV drugs, like peripheral neuropathy and lipoatrophy, you'll know how important comfortable shoes are. Arches, soles, toes, heels could get that little extra help from a pair. If you have £100 to spare,

ECCO may well be worth the investment. They are long-lasting, come in leather, suede, loafer, sandal and boot styles; or you can find a pair of good trainers at a slightly cheaper price. ECCO's Flagship Store is at 445 Oxford St., London W1. See website for other outlets.

The other company that makes similar good-quality, comfort shoes is Birkenstock. They're better known for their moulded