Published on January 3rd, 2022 | by Kirsten Borrink
1Stegmann Liesl Review: A Super Cute Slimmer Skimmer
We’ve been fans of Stegmann wool clogs for years: they’re quality-made, supportive, and oh-so easy to wear. In fact, a pair of their Original 108s provided tremendous relief to my aching feet soon after I was diagnosed with RA in the late 90s. While I currently live an ultra-casual life, and have no problem whatsoever wearing wool clogs in public, I’ve got a new favorite Stegmann for around-town wear and I think you’re going to love it. It’s cute without being cutesy–do you know what I mean? Presenting the Stegmann Liesl ballet flat…
Thank you to Stegmann for sending me the Liesl to try out. I received them last spring, but didn’t really put them to the test until September as they’re more suited for cooler temperatures. Now they’re my favorite shoes for polishing up an everyday casual outfit.
The Liesl fits similar to a ballet flat/skimmer but with more room in the toe box and a vamp that crosses below the bunion area, which is a huge plus for many of us with less-than-perfect toes. However, keep in mind the Liesl profile is slimmer than their clogs, so don’t expect the toe box to be quite as generous.
I was concerned that the Liesl would slip off my semi-narrow heels, but am pleasantly surprised at how well they stay put. I requested my normal size 10 and it fits my medium width foot perfectly. The shoe gaps a little along the sides, but a wider foot might not experience this.
Here is the Liesl fit description provided from the Stegmann site:
The Liesl fits like a traditional women’s dress shoe and does not have the same fit profile as our clogs. Order your normal dress shoe size. Some women found the Felt Liesl runs a bit large as it is soft and flexible. It is medium width, but can accommodate a wider foot. We recommend ordering your normal size, or sizing down if between sizes. For wider feet, order your normal size or size up if between sizes. Will loosen slightly with wear.
The removable cork and latex insole provides moderate arch support–again, not as much as the clogs, but understandable as it’s a completely different profile. I find it be enough for walking around town or running errands. The description of the Liesl mentions metatarsal support, but I don’t feel it.
The wool felt upper felt a little scratchy at first but has softened over multiple wearings. There’s a cushioned heel pad (suede?) that’s super soft–I wish this material could be used as lining for the whole shoe. I plan on wearing the Stegmann Liesl with a thin sock when temperatures dip, so that might remedy the slight scratchiness.
Get ready for compliments on your new shoes; the style is unique and people want to know more about them when they see them on your feet. At least that’s been my experience. Find the Stegmann Liesl in wool and leather uppers, whole sizes 6-11 for $140 from StegmannUSA.com.
I bought the leather version of this shoe, wore them once, and they immediately went into the “donate” box. They cot I to the top of my foot, slip in the heel, and are far from comfortable. I would suggest wearing them at home before you toss the box.