Frequently Asked Questions

A PAHI is a Polynesian double-hulled catamaran used for fishing and ocean battles.  The PAHI was designed and created to promote better balance on the high seas over 5,000 years ago!

The PAHI boat is the epitome of balance. Being able to navigate rough waters without flipping over into tumultuous sea water was vital to a Polynesian’s survival. Our PAHI shoes work similarly- by providing a more centered experience when traversing the pathways of our own lives.

The PAHI technology was created by renowned posturologist Eric Mouillon and his team of doctors in France. We have joined forces with Mouillon and are now sharing his award-winning footwear technology with the United States and Canada.

PAHI shoes are for everyone! Greater balance is something we all strive for and look to improve. With better balance, the world becomes more accessible.

P.O.R.T. is an acronym for the PAHI OUT RIGGER TECHNOLOGY.

The geometry of our soles provides a broader platform where you need it most… just like the outriggers on a catamaran. The non-roll features of the shoe provide improved body alignment while preventing over-supination and over-pronation. Our patented balance technology is what makes us stand out from the rest.

That’s easy. As we stand on our two feet, the oscillation factor within our body is diminished when wearing PAHI’s. What’s the oscillation factor, you ask? The oscillation factor refers to the constant back and forth motion of our body as we stand still upon our feet. The combination of a decreased heel-drop and the P.O.R.T. balance system decreases the back-and-forth movement while simultaneously improving equilibrium in your stance.

Why is this important? Well, when shoes are heavily cushioned, the oscillation factor is immediately triggered into high gear as a person stands or attempts to walk. The increased oscillation automatically causes our bodies to waver back-and-forth, which decreases our balancing capabilities.

PAHI’s work in the opposite fashion- they decrease oscillation while standing and walking, creating better balance with every step.

With our shoes, we have found that a 24-48 hour break in period could be necessary as your feet adapt to our shoes. After that time-period, the shoes will soften and provide a comfortable and secure fit.

The PAHI stretch laces were constructed to keep people from having to tie their laces. It is also preventive measure to keep people from tripping on untied shoe laces.

However, if you want to replace the triple lock lace with traditional shoe laces, it’s possible to replace them.

The PAHI shoes were developed to have exquisite traction in wet conditions, especially the PAHI Steady Slides, which were designed to be used in the shower and around the pool.

Although, the PAHI Balance Brand is considered a performance shoe, it is not necessarily considered an athletic shoe. When we think of performance, we often times think of winning a race or scoring a goal in the big game. If someone is rehabilitating from an injury or suffering from a foot or lower body malady, walking to the mailbox or around the house can be considered a performance.

Due to the construction of the P.O.R.T.- a person making athletic cuts on the football field or while playing Pickleball would not be recommended. However, in fitness activities that require solid footing such as walking, lifting weights or fishing- our PAHI shoes are an incredible way to stay balanced and secure during these activities.

The PAHI Steady technology provides balance and security in everyday living and in the shower. The PAHI Steady was created for better balance around bathrooms, pools, boats and around the water. The PAHI Steady has a deeper heel cup for better stability with NO-MORE fishtailing heels! The PAHI Steady also comes in half sizes- which provides a truer fit.

Great question! We have found that if you wear socks with your PAHI Steady, your true size should be sufficient. But, if you want full PAHI security with or without socks- you may want to consider a half size smaller with your purchase. By doing this- you will create a more secure fit in the shower or in areas of water.

Absolutely! Don’t be fooled by the drainage holes in the PAHI Steady- they’re just big enough to allow proper water drainage in the shower, and just small enough to keep bits of gravel and debris out of your shoe.

PAHI’s work great on gravel trails and off-road paths. They are not designed for hardcore hiking or mountain climbing, but every day off-road activities are all the rage with PAHI’s.

For our PAHI MESH- you can wash the shoes in a washing machine, but please take the insole out before placing it in the washing machine- then air dry.

For our PAHI SUEDE- you can brush the sole, then clean the upper with a damp sponge and leave to air dry.

Yes- A more secure fit helps create better balance. When a shoe fits loosely, people have a better chance of losing balance, tripping or taking clumsy steps. The beauty of PAHI footwear is its three widths- medium, wide and super wide.

It is important to find the right fit for you! If you are wearing the wrong width you will most likely have a less secure fit. We suggest a more secure fit, where your feet will dictate a more complete fit as your PAHI’s soften after a few wears.

PAHI’s are for everyone! If you need improved balance along with great comfort, you need a PAHI. Our PAHI Steadies are definitely for everyone!

You can request a return or exchange by visiting our Return & Exchange page. Simply enter your order details and submit your request.