Walking Miracle

Im focusing on footwear yet again! I came across these sandals today called 'fitflops,' they are a half fashion friendly sandal and half muscle toning. At first I thought how can a sandal be regarded as a fitness product? I did a bit of research and found that the fitflop has a unique density midsole that increases muscle load and mantians a more natural gait. I work in shoes so I know all of the terminology, but to break that down, it means that the sole is shaped in a particular way and allows for a natural progression through the foot. When wearing the fitflop greater power is required by the calf at push off and the slower eversion rate creates a significantly longer activation time in the calf, thigh and buttocks. With the sole of the sandal creating an uneven walking surface, the fitflop challenges the muscles to maintain control over locomotion and improve gait. There is a growing awareness of how specifically designed footwear can improve health and wellness. With frequent use, improved gait characteristics may reduce the incidence of some musculoskeletal problems. This is a great way to show how technology and fashion are intertwined. Through the use of technology our fashion accessories are becoming practical and improving our health and wellbeing. After seeing the fitflop in a store at my local shopping centre i've seen advertisements in Vogue, on television, a segment on today tonight, they are being advertised everywhere through technology and media. The slogan is "so how do you feel about wearing a flip flop that has the potential to make your bum smaller and your leags leaner? I thought so. Me too." "The fitflop midsole extends the amount of time that the slow twitch muscles are engaged during each step (by approximately 10- 12%). Slow twitch muscle fibres produce energy by converting fats into energy aerobically." Anyway, enough about the research and technology behind this seasons 'must have' according to leading magazine- Vogue. They come in a variety of fashionable colours, including, black, red and blue and as a fashion obsessed female I couldn't resist and purchased a pair of red ones, I can't wait until they start toning!

http://www.thefitflop.com/