u/PROSEALLTHEWAY

I found a cheap pair because one of the straps was like 90% torn, it was barely hanging on. I looked through here and some other places to find a solution but didn't see anything - lots of "just throw it away" advice, matter of fact - so I'll share my process with y'all in case it helps someone:

Tape the strap together with duct tape. Wrap the tape around it a couple times, you don't need to do it a lot. Then, get some felt tape (I found mine for $2 at target), cut a piece to match the shape on the inside of the strap, and affix it there. That's it! I've had it fixed for a few months now and worn it dozens of times with no issues. As a big guy who sweats a lot, I figure if it's held up for me, it'll work for most everyone else. And there's plenty of extra tape if I need to re-do it.

(I did initially skip the felt tape and just wore them with duct tape, I figured since the top strap didn't contact my foot when standing still it wouldn't be a big deal. One long walk and a friction burn later, I learned my lesson. I tried to do some tape that was itself soft to wrap around the strap but nothing worked effectively. So the two step process was necessary)

I'll be buying a car in a month or two, and I'm in the market for a used Lexus, budget is around 10K, give or take a few grand. The problem I'm having is that there are a bunch of models in that range: The LS460, the SC430, the CT200h (2015+), the GS450H, ES hybrids, and I haven't even gotten to the IS/RC options yet. I'm not getting an SUV, however

If I prioritize lowest cost of ownership, CT200h wins in a wash, but it's slow and kinda uncomfy for a 6'2", 230lb guy. If I want an engaging experience, the IS wins but lacks the luxury experience, try to get them both and the GS is the answer but by all accounts seems to need the most money to maintain. The LS is the bulletproof, elegant one that'll last forever, but I'm wary of needing to drop half the purchase price on suspension and brakes and the MPG is bad. I like the SC430 a lot, but worried about a hardtop even if that engine is perfection.

So, what do y'all think? I'm a single guy who doesn't need space or even to drive that much, my job is within like 10 miles of my residence. I like driving and always had a manual, but I'm in my 40s and find a comfy ride and not going to the gas station that often pretty appealing - which points me towards the ES. Anyway, would love to hear your thoughts and advice!

EDIT: Appreciate all the thoughtful replies! I think I may be leaning towards the RC, I do love a coupe and since not many americans do, there's some value to be found in the market

Guys I'm starting off as a CCA next month, I am stoked to be out and walking (too much screen staring's got me fat and lazy). My issue is that I have a foot issue - capsulitis - that occurs when I wear shoes with elevated heels. So when I'm out and walking, I wear Altra Olympus. It's on my paperwork that I need to wear zero drop, cushioned shoes. But I have a few questions!

• Is the all black and leather requirement set in stone with a doctor's note? I've seen two different carriers with non-compliant colored boots in my city, so they don't seem to be strict. Would sneakers be at all possible? That would be the easiest solution.
• I’ve read advice on here to wear guideline-adherent shoes to the station and change out on the route. Seems like the way to go? I can grab a pair of Altra Torin in leather and be set inside, then have a rotation outside
• (I would get a dozen pair of the Altra leathers and be fine but they aren't in production and require hunting to find.)
• My budget isn't too tight, happy to spend money or hunt on markets, but I haven't found any other brand that does what Altra does. Hoka's are tiny for me and they feel very sloped, even the SR Bondis which I've tried. So I'm open to suggestions! TIA