Hmm, Ruth I wonder if maybe it's not the shoelace vs. bungee cord thing, but rather the way the eyelets on the actual shoe are designed? So on something like Keens (and I think most bungee cord shoes) the eyelets are not actually traditional flat eyelets that go through the top of the shoe, but rather loops attached to the outside of the shoe. So the cord wouldn't be pressing against your foot that way as it's pulled UP from the shoe.

I am not a huge athletic shoe fan either. For times I need the casualness of an athletic shoe but not for actual athletics, I like ballet flats from Puma or Nike. They give me casual comfort but in a non tie option. I used a version from Champion via Payless Shoe Source for a work shoe a few years back - very comfortable, supportive and cheap so I replaced a few times.
I thought I was alone in not thinking "tennis shoes" were comfortable.

You may be on to something, Diana. I never thought about the way the bungee cord sits on top of the shoe. Also, it seems easier to loosen the bungee at certain points without making the shoes loose enough to slip off my feet.

Christieanne, I have yet to find a truly comfortable pair of athletic or tennis shoes. I've tried all brands, and all lacing techniques, to no avail. It's really interesting how I can be on my feet all day in a good pair of boots and never experience any foot pain, yet have pain from lace-up shoes within minutes of putting them on.