We’re proud to launch our brand new FitnessFootwear.com website with sleek new looks and effortless navigation for an even better online shopping experience.
Let’s be honest, the old site was a tad chaotic. So we thought about how people are used to walking into a shop and seeing the various sections. So instead of launching someone straight into mens Merrell walking sandals, we felt it was better to encourage people to browse FitnessFootwear.com by category.
After all, if someone is looking for something that specific, then chances are, they’ll land on our site from a Google search.
So now you can easily browse by Mens, Womens, Brands and our top level categories: Outdoor, Running, Toning and Casual.
OUTDOOR
Enjoying the great outdoors, climbing Ben Nevis or taking the dog for a walk? Then our Outdoor section has everything from lightweight summer walking sandals to warm, waterproof snow boots for winter. We also stock a wide range of walking boots and walking shoes for all kinds of weather conditions. So whether you’re looking for lightweight comfort and breathability or support and Gore-Tex waterproof protection, We stock every kind of walking shoe, boot and trainer imaginable from the biggest outdoor brands.
Our outdoor brands include:
Hi-Tec
Brasher
Keen
Merrell
North Face
Salomon
Teva
RUNNING
Going for a casual run, competing in a marathon, going off road or going barefoot, our running shoes section has every kind of shoe for every kind of runner, including trail running shoes and the latest range of barefoot running shoes.
The barefoot running shoe trend has really taken off lately and we’re looking forward to expanding this range in 2011, along with our already wide range of specialist running shoes from the biggest brands in running.
Our running brands include:
Asics
inov-8
Mizuno
New Balance
Saucony
Vibram Five Fingers
TONING
Toning is a relatively new niche in the world of sports and everyday wear. While toning footwear began in the form of a comfy sandal to tone your legs with every step, toning trainers have helped to develop this category in recent years, making toning shoes appealing for a wide range of people from those looking to improve their overall health and fitness to athletes seeking to enhance their training sessions.
We stock a wide range of everyday toning shoes, boots and sandals to get a work out while you walk to competitive toning trainers which use a number of technologies to help you run faster, further and harder with less fatigue.
Our toning brands include:
FitFlop
Reebok
Skechers
CASUAL
Everyone’s got to relax once in a while, even our staff! So as well as sports and outdoor shoes, we also stock a selection of comfortable, rugged and hard wearing casual shoes, boots, trainers and sandals with a focus on the outdoors.
Truth be told, casual shoes are becoming more functional than ever and the gap between function and fashion is forever shrinking. Just look at walking trainers and ladies snow boots for example.
Our casual brands include:
Birkenstock
Caterpillar
Merrell
We hope you like the new site and find that’s it’s much easier to browse and filter for what you’re looking for. We’ll be adding more great features over the coming months to enhance the ease, speed and enjoyment of shopping online with us.
From everyone here: Thank you for shopping with www.fitnessfootwear.com
Popularity: unranked [?]
The eagerly awaited womens North Face 2011 spring summer collection was announced today, and it looks like it has been worth the wait, with great new styling, brand new colour schemes and upgrades on the already impressive technology.
The North Face has long been a driving force behind some of the greatest extreme adventures, providing the footwear and equipment to cope with the most challenging terrain. They are a name synonymous with the mountains which they help to tame, and offer cutting edge technology to cope with everything that mother earth can put in your way. No matter where your path takes you, you can be sure that the North Face will keep your feet perfectly protected and in total comfort, with great outdoor styling which looks just at home on the high street.
As expected the hugely successful Hedgehog range of high performance hiking trainers gets a major boost with 7 brand new styles due at Fitness Footwear early in the New Year. However there are some absolute gems in each of the performance lines, with great new styles for hiking, running, water sports, multi sports and sandals with over 30 new models to choose from.
Womens Hiking
For tackling highly uneven and punishing terrain in maximum comfort, the North Face Sable has long been one of the preferred hiking shoes for women. Designed to keep the load light, it provides maximum support and cushioning, and is perfect for helping you to pick up the pace. The sable combines the performance of a hiking boot with the light agile design of a running shoe, and offers a host of technologies to keep the feet perfectly protected, dry and comfortable. The 2011 Sable range offers a full GTX treatment, with Gore-Tex linings to keep the feet perfectly cool and dry, with moisture wicking linings and highly breathable uppers. The sable is sold in a performance mid boot and a highly responsive low profile hiking shoe.
The Sable features a Heel Cradle construction to lock the heel in place, providing excellent support and minimising the risk of injury over tough, rocky trails. The feet are well supported with a Northotic ergonomically designed footbed, and a gusseted tongue keeps the trail out of your shoes preventing irritation. The Sable is constructed from a female specific last to ensure a perfectly snug and secure fit, with further tweaks made to last year’s design to maximise performance for women, including a female specific Vibram rubber outsole for incredible off road traction.
Womens North Face SS11 Hiking Models
North Face Sable Mid GTX XCR – Classic Khaki and Tofino Blue
North Face Sable Mid GTX XCR – Burnt Olive Green and Citronelle Green
North Face Sable GTX XCR – Burnt Olive Green and Citronelle Green
North Face Sable GTX XCR – Shroom Brown and Fossil Ivory
North Face Sable – Dune Beige and Slickrock Red
North Face Sable – Weimaraner Brown and Berry Lacquer Purple
Womens Multisport
Whilst the North Face Sable offers the chance to keep moving fast over the full range of terrain, the North Face Hedgehog takes you up to top gear, with a sleek design, fearsome tread and the ultimate in responsiveness. This super lightweight trainer series is one of the high performance Fastpacking range from North Face, designed to keep the feet well supported and cushioned, whilst taking the terrain at maximum speed. They offer excellent versatility for year round use, with a highly breathable Gore-Tex design to cope with the wet weather, a lightweight construction for the summer and a tread pattern for rain, snow, rocky and muddy terrain.
The North Face Alkaline GTX is a new offering which shaves all important ounces to off the weight of the shoes, without compromising comfort, support or cushioning. For the fastest cross country running times, and to take all terrain in your stride, the Alkaline GTX is the answer. The ultra lightweight mesh upper has been reinforced with nubuck leather bands to keep the feet perfectly supported and protected, with a ziplock lacing system for an incredibly snug fit. The laces pull from the base of the shoes to ease lace tension on the feet, a Snake Plate allows for a natural flex of the foot, and the tread is designed for speed over slick off-trail terrain and multi sport wear.
Womens North Face SS11 New Multisport Models
North Face Hedgehog Tall GTX XCR III – Fossil Ivory and Berry Lacquer Purple
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Pink Pearl and Dark Gull Grey
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Classic Khaki and Chrysanthemum Red
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Pale Blue and Griffin Grey
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Soy Beige and Moonlight Ivory
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Coffee Brown and Pale Blue
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Black and Fuschia Pink
North Face Alkaline GTX XCR – Black and Foil Grey
North Face Alkaline GTX XCR – Berry Lacquer Purple and Windchime Grey
Womens Amphibious
North Face amphibious shoes combine the lightweight construction of a water shoe with the high performance of a hiking shoe, perfect for when your path frequently takes you across streams and wet and boggy ground. Whether hiking through the jungles of Borneo or traversing the hills and valleys of North West England, North Face amphibious footwear keeps you moving fast and maintains traction in the wettest conditions. The shoes feature an injection moulded EVA construction to keep the weight to a minimum, with a lightweight suede and mesh upper to maximise breathability in dry conditions, and drainage holes to help pump out water after a soaking.
The Hydroshock was one of the first high performance hybrid shoes released, and has rapidly become one of the most popular. The Mary Jane style shoes feature rubber pads on the outsole for increased traction, and superb grip on the trail, muddy river banks, and over gravel and stony ground. The North Face Sieve III is the third generation of this impressive amphibious shoe which keeps getting better and better each year. The Sieve III offers even more of the benefits from hiking trainers, with a stylish and protective design, expert grip and impeccable cushioning. A ¾ length shank gives the support to tackle rocky ground, a closed mesh upper keeps debris out of the shoes, and the highly breathable design keeps your feet cool and comfortable. Perfect for rocky shorelines, canyoneering and mixed wet and dry terrain, the Sieve III will take some beating.
Womens North Face SS11 New Amphibious Models
North Face Hydroshock Mary Jane SE – Alloy Grey and Exotic Green
North Face Hydroshock Mary Jane SE – Grotto Blue and Griffin Grey
North Face Hydroshock Mary Jane SE – Pink Pearl and Zinc Grey
North Face Sieve III – Griffin Grey and Fuschia Pink
North Face Sieve III – Pale Blue and Griffin Grey
North Face Sieve III – Moonbeam Beige and Oxford Tan
Womens Running
This year saw the release of the Singletrack trail running shoe, a lightweight all purpose shoe for the trail, great for walking yet able to perform if you fancy breaking into a run. It is a great all round off road shoe offering great underfoot support and protection for hard packed trails and uneven stony ground. The external tongue and scree collar prevents small stones and debris from getting into the shoes and causing irritation, protective toe and heel bumpers are ideal for uneven and stony terrain, and the famed North Face Snake Plate to allow a natural forefoot flex.
The Singletrack features an X-Dome Cradle for excellent shock absorption, a Northotic footbed for comfort and a sticky rubber Tenacious™ grip outsole for maximum traction. Already having a winning design, it has been further improved for 2011 with the release of 4 new styles and a brand new design in the Singletrack TH.
The Singletrack TH trail-running shoe takes the original Singletrack design and technology and adds a Terrain Harness to reduce pronation of the foot for greater stability, comfort and foot health. The chassis offers greater resistance to prevent the inward rolling of the foot, and helps to conserve energy by adding efficiency to the stride. The North face Ultra 105 also offers over pronators the maximum support and comfort, and is an ideal shoe for those with low arches for maximum stability and support.
Womens North Face SS11 New Running Models
North Face Single Track – Blitz Blue and Metallic Silver
North Face Single Track – Graphite Grey and Fuschia Pink
North Face Single Track T.H. – Zinc Grey and Blitz Blue
North Face Single Track T.H. – Griffin Grey and Hamel Green
North Face Ultra 105 GTX XCR – Dark Gull Grey and Pinot Red
Womens Sandals
The summer appears to have officially ended, and as the lightweight cool summer shoes are packed away for another year, news of the latest Hedgehog and El Rio styles will tempt you to leave your tired old hiking sandals in back of the wardrobe. Many outdoor brands produce walking and hiking sandals however few offer the support and comfort for serious summer hikes. The Hedgefrog changes that, combining the supreme off road performance of the Hedgehog, with the aquatic prowess of a custom designed water sports shoe, achieving the perfect balance. If you want maximum versatility for the summer there is little competition, with 5 new styles and colour schemes to choose from in 2011.
If you prefer a more classic walking sandal style, the El Rio will be right up your street. The 3 strap design looks stylish, and the forefoot, instep and the heel straps keeps the sandals secure and the foot well cushioned. The water friendly uppers are constructed from soft nubuck for comfort, with a sticky rubber outsole for excellent grip o the trail. The versatile design converts into a slide with a removable heel strap, perfect for when you are in and out of the water and anti-microbial AgIon treatments ensure perfect foot health. Two new ultra feminine El Rio styles are due at Fitness Footwear, with the pink and blue colour schemes sure to be a hit during next year’s summer scorcher.
Womens North Face SS11 New Sandals Models
North Face Hedgefrog – Griffin Grey and Fuschia Pink
North Face Hedgefrog – Fossil Ivory and Demitasse Brown
North Face Hedgefrog – Mountain Blue and Grotto Blue
North Face Hedgefrog Sandal – Classic Khaki and Chrysanthemum Red
North Face Hedgefrog Sandal – Dark Gull Grey and Tofino Blue
North Face El Rio – Q Silver Grey and Fuschia Pink
North Face El Rio – Classic Khaki and Pale Blue
Earthy colour schemes, feminine pastel detail, and sleek styling are sure to make 2011 another great year for this bestselling North Face range, which offers the maximum versatility for everyday casual wear and high performance sports alike. However if you can’t wait until next year to get your hands on a pair of North Face shoes, the autumn / winter 2010 womens North Face collection doesn’t disappoint, with a great choice of styles to keep your feet warm and toasty all winter. Be sure to check them out at: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-366-north-face.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
Skechers have been working hard on redeveloping their toning technology over the summer. Now that the weather’s turning colder, many will also be changing their toning sandals to a warmer pair of toning trainers.
So to take walking and toning to the next level, Skechers Shape Ups Toners are a new range of comfortable trainers and sandals to help you to shape up with every step.
While the original Shape Ups used a dynamic rolling sole, Skechers Toners feature kinetic toning pads that work the muscles in your legs, bum and core for a more rewarding workout while you walk.
What’s the real different between the dynamic rolling sole and the kinetic toning pads?
The kinetic toning pads allow for more controlled multi-directional movement, making them ideal for sports and running, while the original dynamic rolling bottom improves posture and tones whilst walking, but isn’t suitable for sports or running.
Skechers Shape Up Toners will be available in a choice of classic Skechers trainer styles and mary jane sandal designs.
Check out the Skechers Shape Ups Toners video below and see that you think:
Stay tuned for more news from Skechers tomorrow!
Popularity: unranked [?]
This year has been a huge success for the Reebok Reetone footwear range, which offers men and women the chance to get a whole lot more out of exercise, only requiring a simple change of footwear.
Few will have escaped the Reebok Reetone advertising campaign which has circled the globe, highlighting what the shoes can do to the lower body, speeding up toning in the calves, hamstrings and buttocks and making exercise a whole lot more fun.
The shoes feature an innovative outsole design with instability pods located in the heel and the forefoot which create a slightly unstable base. When walking, running and training in the shoes, the shifting air in the pods causes the body to make minor adjustments to the posture to maintain balance, and in doing so increases muscle activity in the gluteus by up to 28%, and the hamstrings and calves by 11%.
However there is more to the shoes that simple toning, offering an incredibly comfortable fit and softness underfoot making them some of the most comfortable trainers ever produced by Reebok, not to mention the highly fashionable styles. With this year being such an outstanding success for the Bolton born company, it will come as no surprise that 2011 promises to be even bigger and better, with a host of brand new fashionable styles coming to the market, with a welcome boost to the men’s range with great new colours and designs for women.
For a sneak preview of the great new styles due in the New Year, have a look though our guide to the SS11 Reebok Reetone collection.
Reebok Easytone
The Easytone is the shoe which started off the Reebok toning craze earlier this year, offering the opportunity to work out whilst you walk, turning every daily activity into a toning session. The highly fashionable and comfortable shoes were an instant hit, helped along the way by big names such as Kelly Brook, who has often been seen sporting her Easytones, which have helped her to keep in perfect shape this year. Here at Fitness Footwear we have long sang the praises of these excellent exercise shoes, having written many an Easytone trainers review over the past few months, as new styles and colour schemes have been released. However the Easytone is due for a huge boost in 2011 with a host of new and fashionable styles of these revolutionary shoes hitting the shelves early in the New Year.
The SS11 collection features 8 new styles for women adding to the popular 2010 styles, which are sure to make you stand out from the crowd. Working out and looking good is about t get a whole lot easier. What makes the shoes such big sellers, apart from their impressive toning properties, is the comfort they offer. Inside the shoes the feet are treated to a seamless Smoothfit lining, which is silky smooth on the feet, removing all potential sources of abrasion, wicking away moisture, and keeping the feet perfectly dry, cool, and comfortable. Wearers notice the benefits from the shoes even after just a few minutes of exercise, really feeling the extra work which the body has had to put in at the end of the day. Whilst previously only the realm of women, Reebok now offer a good selection of men’s styles which help to improve strength and stamina, as well as get more definition for sexy, strong legs which are sure to impress the ladies.
For details of what 2011 has in store for men and women who want to make their lower half their better half, have a look at the new styles coming soon at Fitness Footwear.
New Womens Easytone Models For 2011
Womens Reebok Easytone Reexperience – White, Silver, Steel
Womens Reebok Easytone Reexperience – Black, Silver, Steel
Womens Reebok Easytone Trend LP – Black, Magenta, White
Womens Reebok Easytone Trend LP – White, Champagne
Womens Reebok Easytone Reenew Lux – Brown, Brass
Womens Reebok Easytone Reenew – White, Blue, Silver
Womens Reebok Easytone Reenew – Black, Silver, Grey
Womens Reebok Easytone Reenew – White, Magenta, Silver
New Mens Easytone Models For 2011
Mens Reebok Easytone Casual – Black, Light Grey
Reebok Runtone
For those who like to take their exercise a leisurely pace, Reebok Easytone shoes are a great choice, but for the millions who prefer to crank up the speed and get a targeted workout, the Easytone are not best suited. Fortunately for joggers and runners, they need not miss out on getting the extra burn thanks to the release of Reebok Runtone trainers. The Runtone UK launch was a glitzy affair, with sports personalities aplenty, most notably Ryan Giggs and Lewis Hamilton, both of whom have adopted the shoes to get more out of jogging and running. Reebok Runtone feature a similar design to Reebok Easytone trainers, however the shoes are better suited to moving at pace, with shallower instability pods located in the heel and ball of the foot capable of resisting the increased forces generated when jogging and running.
With the backing of famous sports personalities extolling the benefits to the body, it is no surprise that Reebok Runtone shoes have become such a runaway success. The shoes help to improve core muscle strength and stamina, allowing greater value to be gained without increasing the time spent exercising. For premiership footballers who need to boost strength, and Formula 1 drivers requiring incredible stamina, they offer the perfect way to get in, and stay in shape. The most popular toning trainers for men get a boost with two new cool styles, with women also getting and fashion boost in 2011, with highly feminine styles in magenta and silver. If you want to look at your best on your daily jog, and get into shape in the fastest timeframe, you will need a pair of Runtones on your feet.
New Womens Runtone Models For 2011
Womens Reebok Runtone Prime – Silver, Blue, Black
Womens Reebok Runtone Prime – White, Magenta, Silver
New Mens Runtone Models For 2011
Mens Reebok Runtone Vibe Uform – White, Silver, Blue
Mens Reebok Runtone Vibe Ufrom – Grey, Silver, Red
Reebok Traintone
Reebok’s plan from the start was to offer more than just a toning shoe to help improve body tone, instead creating an entire range of exercise footwear catering to all walks of life and all sporting activities. Their trainers have been aimed at getting people out of the gym and getting exercise in the great outdoors, whilst making exercise more fun. However for Pilates partakers and aerobics aficionados, and those who love getting to the gym for a serious workout, there is the Reebok Traintone. Reebok Traintone feature the same highly comfortable design which works the whole of the lower body, however the design has been tweaked to make them better suited for the gym and indoor exercise regimes. The two instability pods offer much greater stability, perfect for the treadmill, Stairmaster, Yoga and Tai Chi exercises.
Reebok Traintone shoes have only been on the market for a couple of months yet have already generated huge sales for female fitness fanatics, with the men now benefiting from the Traintone experience too. The SS11 collection features two great styles for men, and the women get a style boost two with two great new highly fashionable designs, guaranteed to look fantastic with all exercise outfits. Reebok Traintone look just like standard Reebok trainers, with a less pronounced design and are arguably the most comfortable shoes in the Reebok Reetone range. Designed to cope with a wider range of movement, the shoes have lost the toe pod present in the Easytone, in favour of extra grip, ideal for your downward dog and all of your asanas.
New Womens Traintone Models For 2011
Womens Reebok Traintone U-Form – Black, Grey, Gravel
Womens Reebok Traintone Anthlin – White, Silver, Carbon
Womens Reebok Traintone Reeactivate – Silver, Magenta, Steel, Grey
New Mens Traintone Models For 2011
Mens Reebok Traintone Active Uform – White, Red, Silver
Mens Reebok Traintone Active Uform – Black, Silver, White
Offering a shoe for all exercise regimes, the Reebok Reetone collection is the most comprehensive of all of the toning shoes on the market, offering the ultimate in comfort whilst you turbo charge your workout. Whether taking a stroll through town, a run in the park, or a session in the gym, with the Reetone collection you have shoes which will improve strength, boost stamina and help sculpt the perfect lower body.
The new styles are sure to bring in the compliments and keep you looking at your best, however don’t discount the Reebok Easytone winter 2010 collection, there are some fantastic styles to keep you looking at your best.
Popularity: unranked [?]
We’ve been lucky enough to have a look at next summers Keen sandals. But if we’re completely honest, it’s more of the same comfort and quality with their Newport H2 range leading the way with a bigger choice of colours.
So for those of you who have never experienced the comfort of Keen, we hope you’re sitting comfortably:
Keen footwear was launched in 2003 to critical acclaim with the release of the Keen Newport, a hybrid shoe offering the performance and robustness of a hiking shoe, with the flexible design of a water sports sandal. Providing awesome cross surface grip and excellent underwater traction, the shoe fast became the sandal of choice for lovers of extreme outdoor adventures. The popular outdoor brand has been a constant innovator, building on the impressive performance of the Newport by incorporating the technology into a wide range of styles and designs to cover all terrain and conditions.
Keen footwear sets the standard for summer shoes, providing the maximum versatility across all surfaces with a highly comfortable design, attractive styles, and excellent protection for the feet. Comfort is assured with an anatomically moulded insole and a compression moulded EVA foot frame keeps the feet properly aligned and well cushioned, even over highly uneven terrain. Whilst sandals are the perfect choice to maximise air-flow, their main drawback is toe protection, with most models coming up a little short for off road action. However, Keen sandals feature a patented toe protection system with a robust toe bumper and enclosed toe box. The rubber bumper is present in all of their sandals offering unrivalled protection from underwater hazards, and is equally at home on the trail. Keen uses a host of technologies to ensure the shoes remains looking good, with silicone impregnated uppers, hydrophobic treatments and an Aegis microbial shield to keep both the shoes and the feet healthy.
Whilst new to the outdoor performance market, Keen sandals have rapidly become one of the most popular brands of outdoor summer footwear, bringing new levels of comfort and style to lovers the great outdoors. This year, the Keen Newport H2 sandal has been a bestseller, offering the robust design of the original Newport with synthetic leather uppers for a truly amphibious existence. Equally at home in the water as on muddy riverbanks and trails, the chunky sticky carbon rubber sole makes light work of all terrain with razor sipping to dispel underfoot water for a secure footing.
Keen are not wont to rest on their laurels and despite leading the field in hybrid shoe design, produce a host of tweaks each year, to offer greater comfort, protection and durability. The Keen 2011 footwear collection promises to be the best yet, with a range of attractive new styles, cool new colour schemes and further refinement to the already impressive designs. Despite the amphibious heritage, Keen shoes covers the full spectrum of outdoor pursuits, producing highly breathable water sports sandals to lightweight hiking shoes and winter mid boots. With a boost to the full range of sandal, hybrid shoe, hiking shoe and boot designs 2011 promised to be another great year for this legendary British performance footwear brand. If you are looking for footwear for serious off-road adventures and want the maximum protection, support and comfort for your feet, you need look no further than Keen shoes.
To view the full 2010 Keen sandals and shoes collection take a look at: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-377-keen.aspx and watch this space for further news on next seasons exciting spring / summer collection.
Popularity: unranked [?]
When people think ‘The North Face’, they think ‘waterproof jackets’, but North Face has an excellent range of outdoor footwear from walking shoes and hiking boots to comfy summer sandals and even slippers!
The North Face is a brand instantly associated with waterproof jackets and ski gear, much like Salomon. But if Salomon can make a big break into the outdoor market, then surely North Face can do the same?
The North Face takes its name from the coldest, most unforgiving side of a mountain, so it’s clothing and footwear should be able to take on any challenge.
Many will have heard of the North Face Hedgehog -a trail running shoe without equal when it comes to grip in the wettest, muckiest conditions. But beyond the Hedgehog, The North Face is relatively unknown as a footwear brand. However, there’s much to offer any fashionable skiier, active outdoor enthusiast or summer stroller.
Featuring all manner of industry leading technologies and Vibram outsoles, North Face walking boots are good looking, hard wearing and incredibly comfortable while often featuring Gore-Tex as part of a mesh gasket construction, which makes them incredibly lightweight. At FitnessFootwear.com we’re looking forward to the mid cut model of their best selling Hedgehog trainer, essentially becoming the North Face Hedgehog boot. So when it comes to ultra-lightweight walking boots (or jessie boots as some traditionalists call them!), North Face offer some excellent footwear.
Unlike other outdoor brands however, North Face has always had a fashion tag attached to it. It’s cool to wear North Face jackets and the logo is well known. As such, North Face make a number of shoes that you wouldn’t normally associate with an outdoors brand and perhaps that’s why they haven’t seriously broken into the walking boots market in the same way that Salomon has. But, they do make some exceedingly good North Face sandals and flip flops. The unique egg shell style footbed, which is common in foam packing is incredibly comfortable while a selection of strappy sandals make them a very popular ski and surf style brand for outdoor adventures in the summer. Even these comfy flip flops have excellent grips for the great outdoors.
Finally, for when the weather’s really cold and you want to curl up by the camp fire or soothe your feet after a long day of skiing or hill walking, there’s the very unusual North Face Tent Mule slippers. Essentially miniature sleeping bags for your feet, they’re incredible snug and cosy while being fairly water resistant for all kinds of uses.
So overall, when it comes to the innovative, the unusual and something a little bit different, The North Face has much to offer in the way of footwear. Their Hedgehog trainers are a radically different kind of off road running shoe, their sandals use technology commonly used in premium packing and their slippers are tiny sleeping bags for your feet.
There’s a real ‘cool factor’ when it comes to The North Face, which thankfully doesn’t get in the way of performance, but instead develops some fresh ideas in footwear to offer something that no other brand can.
Interested in checking out North Face shoes for yourself? Then view our full range of North Face footwear.
Popularity: unranked [?]
The North Face spring/summer 2011 collection was announced today, bringing great news for mountaineers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with brand new models, improved technology and great new colour schemes due to arrive at Fitness Footwear in a few short months.
The range is boosted across the board, with new designs of North Face sandals and amphibious shoes for summer, hard wearing multisport shoes for off-road performance, highly responsive trail running shoes, and rugged hiking boots and shoes to cope with the worst of the winter weather. Offering 36 new styles in the Men’s North Face footwear range alone, the new collection includes the eagerly awaited Hedgehog III and a brand new hiking shoe range in the North Face Crestone, plus many exciting redesigns of other classic off-road footwear.
World renowned for their extreme footwear, The North Face is a driving force in extreme sports, leading expeditions over the most challenging terrain to further push the boundaries of climbing, hiking and mountaineering. North Face has developed a host of technologies to keep the body perfectly comfortable from head to toe, whether in the heat of the summer sun or throughout the depths of winter. Their innovation is most apparent in their footwear collection, and the latest range builds on their already impressive reputation, with tweaks made to all of the popular models to give even better support, stability, and protection over the most punishing terrain and inhospitable conditions.
For a sneak preview of what 2011 has in store, have a look at the great new styles soon to be arriving at Fitness Footwear.
Mens North Face Hiking
There is a treat in store for hikers, with the release of a brand new line of hiking shoes and mid boots in early 2011. The North Face Crestone utilises the full range of innovative technologies developed by North Face to protect the feet over the most punishing terrain. For mountain paths and rocky ground, the forefoot needs to be well protected, however many hiking shoes do so by compromising ground feedback. The Crestone utilises an innovatively designed Snake Plate™ to give a high degree of forefoot protection, whilst flexing laterally and medially for a natural foot placement and excellent ground feedback.
Improved X2 cushioning in the heel brings the comfort and shock absorption of their multisport trainers into the hiking shoe category, for a highly comfortable fit. The heel is locked in place and cradled with high density EVA foam for maximum stability and shock absorption, using the North Face Heal Cradle™, and the shoes and boots are part of the Gore-Tex Extended Comfort Range for 100% waterproofing. Excellent moisture management features throughout the new line, with highly breathable and lightweight uppers and moisture wicking linings to keep the feet perfectly dry under all conditions. Combining the lightweight design of trail running shoes with the performance and support of a hiking boots, the Crestone range is likely to be a huge success in 2011, with 6 brand new models to choose from.
New North Face Mens Hiking Shoes for Spring/Summer 2011
North Face Crestone Mid GTX XCR – Elixir Brown and Bombay Orange
North Face Crestone Mid GTX XCR – Weimaraner Brown and Capulet Olive Green
North Face Crestone GTX XCR – Classic Khaki and Capulet Olive Green
North Face Crestone GTX XCR – Elixir Brown and Twine Brown
North Face Crestone – Dark Earth and Slickrock Red
North Face Crestone – Classic Khaki and Twine Brown
Mens North Face Multisport Trainers
Whilst the North Face Multisport trainer range is extensive, few look further than the Hedgehog. This ground breaking trainer has rapidly risen to the top of the bestseller lists for its awesome performance over the full range of off-road surfaces, with sleek styling equally well suited for casual wear. 2011 will see the third generation this popular shoe, with brand new colour schemes, improved balance and support, and many tweaks to further improve performance. The styling is similar to previous releases, with 8 new colour choices and a sleeker profile in store for 2011. The Gore-Tex lining gives 100% waterproof protection, lightweight uppers are highly breathable, and the tread and sticky rubber outsole offers exceptional grip over soft ground and thick mud.
For trail runners who prefer a more lightweight option, the North Face Alkaline GTX uses a highly flexible mesh upper, quick lace system and reinforcing synthetic nubuck to keep the weight to a minimum to keep you moving faster over highly changeable terrain. Offering excellent support, the Heal Cradle™ Pro keeps the rear foot secure, with a Snake Plate™ in the forefoot for protection and stability. Toe bumpers protect against stones, stumps and debris with a Tenacious Grip™ outsole for superb traction on slippery surfaces. A compression moulded EVA midsole offers excellent shock absorption, with an Ortholite® Northotic™ footbed for maximum support and cushioning.
New North Face Mens Multisport Shoes for Spring/Summer 2011
North Face Hedgehog Tall GTX XCR III – Weimaraner Brown and Algae Yellow
North Face Hedgehog Tall GTX XCR III – Black and Citronelle Green
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – New Taupe Green and Moon Mist Grey
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Black and Griffin Grey
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Graphite Grey and Citronelle Green
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – Coffee Brown and Algae Yellow
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – TNP Yellow and Moon Mist Grey
North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR III – White and TNF Red
North Face Alkaline GTX XCR – Black and Alloy Grey
North Face Alkaline GTX XCR – Rum Raisin Brown and Black
Mens North Face Amphibious Shoes
Whilst the North Face have long produced hybrid amphibious shoes, 2011 sees a major boost with the introduction of the all new Hydrashock SE. Constructed from ultra lightweight fabrics, the quick drying design is the perfect partner for summer adventures, offering expert grip on dry land and underwater..For added traction in the wet, under sole pads maximise grip whilst an injection moulded EVA cage keeps the foot well supported and protected. A quick pull lacing system makes for easy removal and tightening, with a foot hugging secure fit for the ultimate in comfort, no matter how wet the terrain gets.
The popular North Face Sieve II also gets a facelift, with new technology to improve support, cushioning and grip. The Sieve III features two new models of ultra lightweight waterproof shoes, perfect for all outdoor adventures in wet conditions and for all water sports. Featuring a Hydrotrak outsole, grip is maintained over the most slippery surfaces with a hard wearing rubber compound with a high degree of stickiness for incredible wet weather traction. The low profile design is highly protective, with a Nylon shank running to the forefoot for better support over rough ground. The mesh upper and tongue form a waterproof seal, perfect for splashing around in the water, with a stable construction to cope with highly uneven surfaces.
New North Face Mens Amphibious Shoes for Spring/Summer 2011
North Face Hydroshock SE – Black and Lime Green
North Face Hydroshock SE – Mountain Blue and Griffin Grey
North Face Hydroshock SE – Black and TNF Yellow
North Face Hydroshock SE – White and Rum Raisin Brown
North Face Sieve III – Moon Mist Grey and Algae Yellow
North Face Sieve III – Mountain Blue and Zinc Grey
Mens North Face Running Shoes
For trail runners of all levels the North Face Ultra 105 offers exceptional support and traction across the full range of cross country surfaces, and is part of the Gore-Tex Extended Comfort Range for total waterproofing. Breathability is maintained with wide mesh uppers and a moisture wicking lining to keep the feet cool and comfortable in all conditions. Under the foot a UltrATAC™ rubber outsole offers tenacious grip in mud and snow, with a robust design to resist abrasion even on hard packed summer trails. The Northotic™ ergonomic footbed offers exceptional underfoot comfort, with Torque Control™ technology to keep the foot properly positioned over highly variable and unpredictable terrain.
For competition runners and professionals, the North Face Single Track is the model of choice. The ultra lightweight design packs in the special features for the ultimate in protection and support. A Snake Plate™ offers forefoot protection and X-Dome technology cradles the foot for a snug and secure fit. One of the most flexible trainers produced by North Face, the foot is allowed to more naturally for great running efficiency, with a super sticky outsole for maximum grip and effortless running in the wet. The Unleashed Performance™ design helps trail runners gain an extra edge for competition running, promoting a natural stride pattern over highly variable terrain.
New North Face Mens Running Shoes for Spring/Summer 2011
North Face Single Track – Graphite Grey and Lime Green
North Face Single Track – Black and TNF Red
North Face Single Track – Flame Red and Lily White
North Face Single Track T.H. – Dark Gull Grey and Lime Green
North Face Single Track T.H. – Aviator Blue and White
North Face Ultra 105 GTX XCR – Black and Pewter Grey
North Face Ultra 105 GTX XCR – Alloy Grey and Sienna Orange
Mens North Face Sandals
The HedgeFrog takes the styling and design of the Hedgehog multisport trainer, and adapts it for better amphibious performance. This hybrid shoe combines the support and protection of a hiking shoe, with the underwater grip of a water sandal. Nubuck fingers offer robustness with drainage slats to help expel water quickly. Quick drying uppers help to maintain comfort after a drenching, making it the ideal companion for all riverside activities and water sports. The shoes feature a Hydrotrak sole for expert underwater traction, with excellent midsole support and cushioning for tough terrain. The toe bumper gives much needed protection to prevent injury from unseen underwater hazards, and anti-microbial treatments keep the feet perfectly healthy and odours from taking hold.
For those who prefer the coolness of a sandal, the North Face El Rio offers a more traditional three strap design, well suited to the beach, river, water-sports and all summer walking. An SBR lining maintains comfort in the wet and dry, preventing abrasion and blisters for daylong comfort no matter what the terrain. The El Rio is a highly versatile sandal, which can be converted to a slide with a removable heel strap. Water friendly nubuck uppers and sticky rubber outsoles make will allow you to take all terrain in your stride, for comfort throughout the most unpredictable summer adventures. Two new El Rio models are to be released in the next few months with 6 new Hedgefrog styles and colour schemes for spring 2011.
New North Face Mens Sandals for Spring/Summer 2011
North Face Hedgefrog – Classic Khaki and Algae
North Face Hedgefrog – Black and Zinc Grey
North Face Hedgefrog – Taupe Green and Graphite Grey
North Face Hedgefrog Sandal – Demitasse Brown and Algae Yellow
North Face Hedgefrog Sandal – Black and Zinc Grey
North Face El Rio – Demitasse Brown and Fossil Ivory
North Face El Rio – Zinc Grey and Mountain Blue
We can’t wait to try on many of the new styles for ourselves -especially the Hedgefrogs! All these great shoes from The North Face won’t be out for quite some time, so in the meanwhile, check out our full selection of North Face 2010 shoes here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-366-north-face.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
As the Uk’s best online Merrell stockist, we’ve got even more Merrells arriving in the new year. This time we’ve turned out attention to the latest womens Merrell shoes, boots, trainers and sandals with one foot in fashion and the other in the great outdoors.
If there’s one thing that really appeals to women it’s Merrell footwear. Other outdoor brands are known for their brown leather boots, uncompromising technical performance or cheap and cheerful products. But Merrell has always been one of the more fashionable outdoor footwear brands and their ladies footwear has always looked especially good!
So what does the future have in store for women with a preference for the comfort, quality and styling of Merrell shoes? Quite a lot actually.
Merrell Womens Walking
In the past there’s been a relatively small selection of Merrell womens walking shoes, boots and trainers, but the ladies Siren range has gone from strength to strength, year on year, delivering unrivalled style every time. Meanwhile the ladies Chameleon Arc range continues to grow while Merrell has introduced a new Avian range of lightweight footwear for more fast paced outdoor adventures.
Merrell Womens Siren Breeze – Brindle
Merrell Womens Siren Breeze – Dark Gull Grey
Merrell Womens Siren Sport GTX – Seagrass
Merrell Womens Chameleon Arc 2 Mid GTX – Dark Gull Grey Lobster
Merrell Womens Chameleon Arc 2 GTX – Dark Gull Grey and Lobster
Merrell Womens Siren Ventilator Mid GTX – Smoke
Merrell Womens Avian Light Sport GTX – Dark Shadow
Merrell Womens Avian Light Leather – Deep Tan
Merrell Womens Sandals
When it comes to comfortable, functional and fashionable sandals, Merrell really shines! Few outdoor brands can boast such a fabulous selection of summer footwear that’s perfectly suited to walking far and wide in the countryside while being suitable for the beach or a colourful summer dress.
Women are spoilt for choice with a completely new colour range of Merrell Siena sandals while the best selling Merrell Kahuna gets another revamp in its third incarnation without losing any of its eyecatching style. Meanwhile there are a number of new additions the range, including the Waterpro Belle and Cambrian trekking sandal.
Merrell Womens Siena – Silver Lining
Merrell Womens Siena – Persian Red
Merrell Womens Siena – Smoke
Merrell Womens Siena – Dark Shadow
Merrell Womens Siena – Twilight Blue
Merrell Womens Siren Strap – Opal Grey
Merrell Womens Cambrian Pull – Oyster
Merrell Womens Kahuna III – Classic Taupe
Merrell Womens Kahuna III Sport – Pewter
Merrell Womens Waterpro Belle – Grey and Skyway
Merrell Womens Barefoot Running Shoes
Having teamed up with Vibram the Merrell Barefoot range is on its way. We’re looking forward to testing some out for ourselves and to compliment the range of mens minimalist running shoes, Merrel has a range of women’s Barefoot shoes in light pastel colours as a more feminine alternative.
Merrell Womens Pace Glove – Lavender Lustre
Merrell Womens Pure Glove – Chilli Pepper
Merrell Womens Pure Glove – Acacia
Merrell Womens Pure Glove – Lavender Lustre
Considering the success of the Vibram Five Fingers shoe and the surge in barefoot running thanks to the book Born To Run, Merrell could do very well with their barefoot running shoe range.
This is just a handful of the great range of Merrell footwear that will be available from FitnessFootwear. We’re looking forward to the return of the Merrell Jungle Slides, the arrival of the new Merrell Kahuna sandals and can’t wait to try on a pair of the Merrell Barefoot shoes.
In the meantime, stay tuned to FitnessFootwear.com and the FitnessFootwear Blog for the latest developments in Merrell footwear. We’ll have more photos of the latest styles very soon!
For our full range of Merrell footwear, visit: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-2-merrell.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
When it comes to comfort, style and rugged quality, there’s nothing quite like Merrell shoes. In fact, we’ve been wearing and selling Merrell for longer than we can remember. And like many of our customers, we’ve got a real passion for the Merrell brand and their fantastic range of products that combine the outdoors with comfort, quality and style.
So whether you’re enjoying some comfy Merrell sandals this summer, exploring the city in some rugged Merrell trainers or conquering the countryside with some breathable Merrell boots, Merrell has a fantastic new range of footwear in store. We hope you’ll be just as excited as we are!
Merrell has expanded their existing range of footwear while redesigning a number of firm favourites and reintroducing alternative mid cut models of last year’s best sellers. So without further ado, let’s take a look at what’s coming soon!
Merrell Chameleon
The iconic Merrell Chameleon range continues with a fresh selection of shoes from their latest Chameleon 3 collection, including a mid cut boot of the Chameleon Evo. Perfect for light hiking and completely waterproof with a Gore-Tex membrane.
Merrell Mens Chameleon 3 Blast – Espresso and Coriander
Merrell Mens Chameleon 3 Blast – Boulder and Granite
Merrell Mens Chameleon Evo Mid GTX – Black and Charcoal
Merrell Refuge
Refuge is the new outdoor performance shoe from Merrell with an upper made from a mixture of nubuk and suede with a breathable mesh lining. The Refuge Pro is strong, reliable and protective whilst the Vibram sole offers maximum performance. Essentially it’s the modern version of the Merrell Intercept, building on that classic Merrell shoe as a basis for it’s stability, shape and styling with extra feature for superior comfort, protection and performance.
Merrell Mens Refuge Pro Ventilator – Aluminium and Harvest Pumpkin
Merrell Mens Refuge Pro Ventilator – Dark Earth and Kangaroo
Merrell Mens Refuge Core Mid GTX – Coffee Bean
Merrell Mens Refuge Pro GTX – Dusty Olive and Black
Merrell Pantheon
Last year the Merrell Pantheon proved to be very popular with its rugged, rustic good looks and hard wearing materials as a versatile walking shoe. This time it’s back in a selection of natural colours inspired by the great outdoors.
Merrell Mens Pantheon Sport GTX – Forest Night
Merrell Mens Pantheon Sport GTX – Castle Rock and Daphne
Merrell Mens Sandals
If there’s one thing that Merrell does well it’s a suitably manly sandal. Birkenstocks will only carry a man so far and when it comes to comfort, quality, underfoot support and hard wearing footwear, a man simply can’t find a better summer sandal than a Merrell sandal. Fortunately the best selling Merrell Kahuna II is back as the Merrell Kahuna III, taking performance and style to the next step while offering the all the comfort and familiarity of the previous design.
Merrell Mens Kahuna III – Classic Taupe
Merrell Mens Kahuna III Sport – Boulder
Merrell Mens Cambrian Convertible – Coriander and Dark Earth
Merrell Barefoot
Merrell has lept aboard the barefoot bandwagon and teamed up with Vibram to product the Merrell Barefoot range of running and walking shoes. Merrell Barefoot footwear combines all the comfort, quality and breathability of lightweight Merrell shoes with a minimalist sole shaped like a foot to give you all the benefits of the barefoot running gait, but with added grip and a layer of impenetrable protection.
Merrell Mens Trail Glove – Black and Molton Lava
Merrell Mens Trail Glove – Olympia
Merrell Mens True Glove – Dusty Olive and Amazon
This is just a handful of the great range of Merrell footwear that will be available from FitnessFootwear. We’re also glad to welcome back the Merrell Mens Moab Mid GTX – Beluga which was always very popular. Also as fans of the Merrell Intercept range, we’re very excited to finally have the Merrell Intercept sport in stock.
Stay tuned for the full range with photos in a few months. But in the meantime, if you’re looking for some new Merrells or are looking to experience the comfort, quality and rugged good looks of Merrell shoes for the first time, checkout our current Merrell footwear range here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-2-merrell.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
It’s time to bling it up this summer with a pair of sparkling FitFlop Electra sandals and a FitFlop branded lilo to chill out by the pool in comfort and style.
Out on the streets this weekend, we saw more women wearing FitFlops than ever before and with the summer in full swing, FitFlop footwear seems to be the sandal of choice this year.
So to celebrate the sunshine we’ve teamed up with FitFlop to offer a free FitFlop lilo with every pair of our FitFlop Electra sandals in sparkly Gold or sizzling Bronze.
Decorated in elegant sequins and featuring the FitFlop MicroWobbleboard toning technology, FitFlop Electra is the FitFlop of choice for thousands of women who are looking to tone their legs in style.
But rember that this exclusive offer is only available with FitFlop Electra Gold and FitFlop Electra Bronze sandals.
You can also check out the full range of FitFlops at FitnessFootwear.com and step towards a healthier you here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-194-fitflops.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
The spring/summer 2011 womens Hi-Tec collection has recently been unveiled at the 2010 Outdoor Show in Friedrichshafen. The extensive new collection features 70 new models to choose from in the New Year, with a major boost to all of the popular Hi-Tec designs, with new releases incorporating the latest technology, shaving even more weight of their already ultra lightweight designs, with a host of new colour schemes.
News of the release comes on the back of the hugely successful Hi-Tec Liquid Mountaineering viral video campaign, starting off the extreme sport of running on water. Naturally you should get a pair of the latest hydrophobic Hi-Tec’s on your feet before attempting to set your own record breaking aquatic running attempt, with many of the new models liquid-mountaineering certified. The video highlights the incredible waterproofing and ultra lightweight designs of Hi-Tec shoes, keeping you light on your feet and moving quickly in all weather conditions.
Producing highly technical footwear for all off-road running and walking adventures, Hi-Tec footwear keeps you going for longer easing the effort the muscles are required to perform. No one could criticise Hi-Tec for style, producing a boot and a shoe for all tastes. Whether you prefer the classic brown leather walking boot, or a highly technical snazzy trainer, you will be spoilt for choice, and that is before the 70 new styles are released early in the New Year.
For advanced details of what the Spring / Summer 2011 has in store for lovers of the great outdoors, have a look at the new designs due at Fitness Footwear in early 2011.
Hi-Tec V-Lite Hiking
Hi-Tec is well known for their lightweight designs, which feature throughout their footwear range, however the V-Lite Hiking series offers the greatest weight saving. The hiking boot category is traditionally the realm of heavy, durable boots, offering the maximum protection for the toughest terrain and the harshest weather conditions. Hi-Tec has developed their own range of technologies to dramatically reduce the weight of their boots, keeping you light on your feet without reducing protection and support. Rather than rely on a chunky cushioned sole for cushioning and protection, Hi-Tec have developed the vertical build system, which utilises 5 layers of ultra lightweight materials to keep the weight to the bare minimum, whilst providing the highest level of protection.
The V-Lite series features lightweight and durable carbon rubber outsoles, a stiff lasting board to protect the feet on uneven and rocky terrain, a Comfort-Tec insole for an anatomically moulded fit, and a cushioned midsole for shock absorption with robust yet lightweight uppers. Next year sees the popular Altitude Ultra, Rapidtrail Ultra and Belleville mid boots remodelled, and an all new Malvern hiking boot. Constructed from waterproof suede and mesh, the mid or low cut boot offers a highly comfortable fit, a lightweight and highly breathable design and all-weather protection, with cool feminine colours with yellow and pink detail.
New Hi-Tec V-Lite Hiking Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Altitude Ultra Luxe Wpi – Chocolate and Light Taupe
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Rapidtrail Ultra Wpi – Smokey Brown, Taupe and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Belleville Wpi – Blue Moon, Grey and Fig
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Rapidtrail WP – Blue Moon, Cool Grey and Powder Blue
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Malvern Mid WP – Smokey Brown, Light Taupe and Custard
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Malvern Mid WP – Blue Moon, Cool Grey and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Malvern Low WP – Blue Moon, Cool Grey and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Lite Hiking
Hi-Tec’s commitment to lightweight design sees them assess competitor brands and put their shoes to the test, to help them produce boots and shoes which are 10%-15% lighter than their nearest competitor. Over long hikes the weight saving can really be felt, keeping your legs from tiring prematurely and keeping you going for longer. V-Lite boots and shoes are highly supportive, with steel shanks for rigidity to prevent bruising on hard terrain, with a good degree of flexibility for a natural foot movement and long term comfort. The waterproof designs offer full weather protection, and offers the maximum versatility, being perfect for rugged terrain and winter walking and highly breathable for warm weather walking.
The Enviro embodies Hi-Tec’s commitment to the environment, using 50% recycled material for the moisture wicking lining, recycled rubber in the outsole, and a recycled metal shank for support. The full grain leather uppers are vegetable tanned offering an environmentally friendly boot which will leave nothing behind but your footprints. The latest V-Lite styles feature blacks, greys and browns throughout the range, offering traditional styles and colours with a modern twist and the latest technology. The Altitude is the most popular Lite hiking boot which gets a further three designs in 2011, with two brand new models in the Lynx and Montclair, with leather and mesh uppers for maximum breathability.
New Hi-Tec Lite Hiking Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens Altitude Glide WP – Brown
Hi-Tec Womens Altitude Glide WP – Blue Moon
Hi-Tec Womens Altitude Glide Low WP Nubuck – Smokey Brown
Hi-Tec Womens Montclair Mid WP – Olive, Taupe and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Womens Lynx Trail Mid WP – Hot Grey, Lavandula and Iris
Hi-Tec Womens Lynx Trail Mid WP – Smokey Brown, Taupe and Damask
New Hi-Tec Lite Hiking Enviro Model for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens Altitude IV Enviro NT WP – Walnut and Dark Taupe
Hi-Tec V-Lite Adventure Sport
The Adventure Sport range features the all new Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity, the incredibly stylish trail running shoe as featured in Hi-Tec’s Liquid Mountaineering video clip. The shoes are designed for trail running, with an ultra lightweight design, far lighter than anything we have seen here at Fitness Footwear. The uppers are incredibly thin, highly breathable, and feature ion-mask hydrophobic technology for total waterproofing. The stitching has been reduced to eliminate weak points and improve the comfort with no interior seams to avoid points of abrasion to keep blisters at bay. The Vibram rubber outsole is designed not to clog up with mud, and keeps you treading lightly in all conditions.
Whilst not to the same extreme feather light construction as the Infinity, the Nightwalk features the same technology with a more hard wearing design for long runs over tough terrain. Designed with a strobel construction for comfort and flexibility, extra support is provided by a TPU midsole for maximum stability and exceptional balance. Toe and heel bumpers add robustness and an external ESS shank gives extra support and durability Designed for all terrain running in total comfort, the shoes feature a Comfort-Tec sockliner moulded to match the natural contours of the foot, and a female specific last construction for a snug and secure fit.
New Hi-Tec V-Lite Adventure Sport Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Infinity HPi – Black, Aquamatic, Squash
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Infinity HPi – Black, Silver, Melon
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Nighthawk WP – Flint, Cool Grey and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Nighthawk Hpi – Mink, Light Taupe and Wedgewood
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Nighthawk – Steel, Violetslate and Candy
Hi-Tec Multi Sports
Hi-Tec multi-sports shoes feature the most versatile designs for the best performance across the full range of outdoor sports, utilising Hi-Tec’s considerable expertise to produce lightweight, supportive and robust footwear designs which are up to the rigours of highly challenging terrain. . The shoes feature tread pattern to maximise both on and off-road traction, with highly breathable robust uppers and great cushioning underfoot. The shoes pack in the technology with a CMEVA full length midsole for exceptional shock absorption, a Comfort-Tec anatomically moulded sockliner for support and softness underfoot, and a sticky Vibram rubber outsole for great off-road grip, constructed with a highly durable blend of rubber for a long lifespan.
2011 will see a boost to three of the multi-sport models, with the greatest range of new styles added to the popular V-Lite Total Terrain all purpose off-road shoes. Constructed from split nubuck, leather and suede uppers they offer the maximum durability with great off-road styling. Using liquid rubber in the toe and the heel, the shoes are highly protective with a shank for added rigidity over highly uneven and rocky terrain. Both the Napier and Aukland feature split suede and mesh uppers for maximum breathability, with a carbon rubber outsole to reduce the weight, and a rigid shank for off-road protection and waterproof uppers for all weather action. No matter what the conditions or whatever the terrain, the shoes offer a performance to match.
New Hi-Tec Multi Sports Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Total Terrain Lace – Hot Grey and Aquamatic
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Total Terrain Lace – Old Moss and Custard
Hi-Tec Womens Total Terrain Lace – Clay, Light Taupe and Custard
Hi-Tec Womens Total Terrain Lace – Hot Grey, Warm Grey and Aquamatic
Hi-Tec Womens Total Terrain Aero – Clay, Light Taupe and Custard
Hi-Tec Womens Total Terrain Aero – Hot Grey, Warm Grey and Aquamatic
Hi-Tec Womens Napier WP – Blue Moon, Storm and Wedgewood
Hi-Tec Womens Napier WP – Clay, Taupe and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Womens Auckland WP – Taupe, Light Taupe and Winter Plum
Hi-Tec Terra Active
The Hi-Tec Terra Active range is aimed at the casual trainer market, providing multi-sport functionality for walking, running, cycling and everyday wear. Constructed from robust suede to cope with knocks and abrasions, the design is ultra lightweight with a highly breathable mesh upper for maximum breathability. Ideal from the spring through to the autumn, the range offers the maximum comfort for prolonged use. Padded collars are comfortable on the ankle and Achilles, with moisture wicking linings for dryness during the most active outdoor sporting activities, keeping the feet perfectly cool, dry and comfortable at all times.
For maximum shock absorption, the EVA contoured midsole runs the length of the foot, with increased cushioning in the heel to prevent shockwaves from travelling up the legs, easing the pressure on the joints.
Featuring earthy tones with feminine colour flashes, the range is highly stylish with a wide choice of designs to go with all casual attire. The ghilley lacing system allows for easy tightening and removal, perfect after a long day on the feet, whilst offers a highly comfortable and snug fit, dissipating lace tension around the whole of the upper. All Terra Active trainers are constructed from a female specific last, offering a secure fit, tailored to the natural contours for women’s feet. The spring/summer collection features 16 brand new models and styles, catering to all sports and all terrain activity with gre4at new colour schemes and five new models.
New Hi-Tec Terra Active Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Lace – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Lace – Hot Grey and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Lace – Old Moss, Taupe and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair EZ – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair EZ – Hot Grey and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair EZ – Old Moss, Taupe and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Pump – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Pump – Hot Grey and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens Mayfair Pump – Old Moss, Taupe and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Saratoga WP – Navy, Storm and Wedgewood
Hi-Tec Womens Alameda – Clay, Taupe and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Womens Alameda – Hot Grey and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Palo Alto Aero – Clay and Seagrass
Hi-Tec Womens Palo Alto Aero – Hot Grey and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Vista – Blue Moon, Cool Grey and Wedgewood
Hi-Tec Womens Vista – Smokey Brown, Light Taupe and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Sandals
Hi-Tec sandals utilise the same V-Lite construction as their boots and shoes, for the height of comfort and protection with an ultra lightweight design ideal for the heat of the midsummer. Hi-Tec has announced that there will be additional 37 new models in 2011, with a style, design, and colour scheme for all terrain and all occasions. Featuring standard hiking sandal designs to protect the feet and offer extra support for off road walking and highly fashionable styles for around town and the beach, the new summer arrivals are sure to match with every outfit and give a full summer of coolness and comfort.
The most eagerly awaited sandal is the Vigorate Slide, a highly comfortable new model with an absorptive moisture wicking lining to keep the feet dry and comfortable. The sandals feature an innovative insole with Cool Gel pads located in the heel, forefoot and toe to help keep the feet cool in the summer, offering incredible underfoot comfort, gently massage the feet to improve blood circulation whilst you walk. The Hi-Tec Vigorate is the perfect antidote for tired and swollen summer feet. The sandals are designed to offer maximum comfort, and give extra summer shock absorption, cushioning the joints from shockwaves for to ease the strain on the ankles, knees and hips, whilst the softness underfoot helps to prevent blisters and abrasions from forming on pressure hot spots.
New Hi-Tec Sandals Models for 2011
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Strap – Bamboo and Linden
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Strap – Black and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Strap – Marshmallow and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Slide – Bamboo and Linden
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Slide – Black and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Slide – Marshmallow and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Thong – Black and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Vigorate Thong – Marshmallow and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Shakti – Coastal and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Shakti – Cork and Seagrass
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Strap – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Strap – Seagrass and Linden
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Slide – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Slide – Marshmallow, Aqua and Squash
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Thong – Seagrass and Linden
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Thong – Black and Topaz
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Minerva Thong – Marshmallow, Aqua and Squash
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Sheba Strap – Black and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Sheba Strap – Honey, Taupe and Peacock
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Sheba Strap – Blues
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Sheba Strap – Greens
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Gran Canaria – Black, Grey and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Gran Canaria – Blue Moon and Light Blue
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Barbados – Black and Grey
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite Barbados – Light Taupe, Olive and Golden Haze
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite OM – Coastal and Dawn
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite OM – Cork and Seagrass
Hi-Tec Womens V-Lite OM – Old Moss, Taupe, Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Maui Strap – Black, Hot Grey and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Maui Strap – Taupe and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Maui Strap – Seagrass, Taupe and Linden
Hi-Tec Womens Maui Thong – Black, Hot Grey and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Maui Thong – Taupe and Lavandula
Hi-Tec Womens Waimea Falls – Black and Cool Grey
Hi-Tec Womens Waimea Falls – Blue Moon, Cool Grey and Light Blue
Hi-Tec Womens Waimea Falls – Chocolate, Wheat and Sand
Hi-Tec Womens Aloha – Bamboo and Seagrass
Hi-Tec Womens Aloha – Black, Grey and Topaz
Here at FitnessFootwear.com we’re excited to see what everyone thinks of the up and coming Hi-Tec styles. Having tried the new Hi-Tec Infinity and Vigorate sandals for ourselves, we’re convinced that the new Hi-Tec range is going to take the outdoor footwear world by storm while their improved brand identity will have a broad appeal to all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts.
To check out the current range of Hi-Tec shoes, boots and trainers at FitnessFootwear.com, visit: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-30-hi-tec.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
If you are planning on taking on the most challenging trails, and want to get out in all weather conditions, your footwear needs to offer the maximum possible protection, give the best possible grip, and be capable of dealing with the elements. Wind, rain, sleet and snow can all be taken in your stride with a pair of hiking boots, which offer the best possible protection to maintain comfort and support for all of you extreme walking adventures.
Many of the performance footwear brands offer shoes and boots for all occasions, with a merging of the boundaries between all of their outdoor shoes to give the maximum flexibility; however for hiking on rocky trails and for the maximum grip and support in all weather conditions, there is no better boot that one specifically designed for hiking.
Hiking boots offer protection for the ankles to help prevent injuries on rocky mountain paths, offer exceptional support to keep you going for longer, and are capable of dealing with the extra weight of a heavy pack. All of the major outdoor brands produce a line of hiking boots with Merrell, Brasher, Salomon, Carn, HI-TEC, Keen and Columbia being some of the best on the market. However what boots should you choose? What are the features which you will need?
Our hiking boot guide will help you wade your way through the options, and narrow down the selection so you can pick a boot which will give maximum off-road performance.
What features to look for in hiking boots
First of all you need to decide where you will be hiking, as this will have considerable bearing on the best boots to choose. Whilst the temptation may be to opt for the most protective and durable boots on the market, it may be overkill if you only plan on light hiking and you will be carrying a lot of extra weight unnecessarily. If you expect to be trekking and backpacking with a light to moderate load, a pair of mid-boots will give you the support and cushioning you need, whereas for mountaineering and backpacking with a heavy pack, consider a high cut boot for extra protection and support.
Robustness
Hiking boots are designed to take you anywhere, and feature highly protective and strong uppers. Most hiking boots are constructed from full grain leather or nubuck to cope with knocks, scrapes and highly abrasive terrain. A durable construction will give the boots the maximum lifespan, and if you are planning on fell or hill waking they will give you maximum support and protection for the ankles to help prevent injury. If you are not planning on tackling difficult terrain, synthetic and mesh uppers offer a lightweight alternative. Whilst not as durable on highly abrasive terrain, they offer a considerable weight saving and maximise breathability and are ideal for summer hiking. They take less time to break in, with many models offering great comfort straight out of the box, with Merrell boots one of the best choices.
All-terrain traction
Hiking the hills and trails will present many challenges, and will involve highly variable terrain. There will be a trade off between a sticky rubber sole for traction on off-road surfaces, and durability for highly abrasive terrain. Vibram rubber offers the most versatility with rubber compounds maximising durability and stickiness. Whilst heavy duty hiking boots and mountaineering boots can be resoled, the cheaper and more lightweight models do not have the construction to allow this, so if you want the maximum use and the longest lifespan, the choice of rubber compound is an important consideration.
Support
All hiking boots feature support technology to keep the feet highly protected over uneven and rocky terrain. There are three main support structures to look out. A forefoot plate offers support, and will protect the feet from spikes and bruising over uneven terrain and rocks. Arch shanks maintain rigidity, and also help to prevent the feet from tiring prematurely. Nylon or plastic shanks are more lightweight, however steel is widely used for the exceptional protection offered and should be sought if you are planning on tackling the most challenging routes or backpacking with a heavy load. TPU support structures are flexible and help improve stability, and often feature on the instep to add rigidity to prevent torque, whilst flexing for a comfortable fit.
Cushioning
Hiking boots need to provide excellent shock absorption to keep the feet well cushioned on extended trips. Featuring EVA foam or polyurethane in the midsole, the materials ensure maximum comfort. EVA foam is the most lightweight option, reducing the weight of the boots to keep you walking for longer, whilst polyurethane offers greater durability, albeit with a slight weight disadvantage. The most important area for cushioning is the heel, which takes the full strike force, which can be many times the weight of the body. If you are planning on backpacking, make sure that heel cushioning is sufficient to cope with the extra weight of a pack.
Waterproofing
For all weather hiking, and to offer full protection from the elements choose a pair of waterproof hiking boots. Whilst some manufacturers such as HI-TEC have developed their own waterproofing technology, the majority of hiking boots will feature a Gore-Tex lining. Gore-Tec offers a full weatherproofing solution preventing external water from entering the boots to keep the feet perfectly dry, whilst allowing steam to escape. Whilst Gore-Tex makes boots 100% waterproof, check to see if the boots feature a waterproof seal around the ankle. A bellows tongue will help to make the uppers more waterproof and will prevent dirt and water from getting in under the laces, a weak point with cheaper walking boots.
Lightweight construction
Lightweight hiking boots offer a considerable weight advantage, which will help to prevent muscle fatigue and will keep you walking for longer. Lightweight materials such as mesh and synthetics will keep the weight to the minimum; however there can be a trade off with robustness. Choose a model which has a lightweight design and is highly durable to get the maximum lifespan.
For the maximum choice and the best possible all-weather protection for the feet, have a look at the full range of highly supportive and lightweight hiking boots at FitnessFootwear.com. If you are unsure about which are the best boots to buy, or you want assistance with choosing the right model, call the Customer Service helpline for advice, and a member of the Fitness Footwear team will be happy to help.
What to look for in Hiking shoes
Hiking shoes offer great protection for the feet and are highly comfortable, requiring less time to break in than hiking boots, with more versatility for all of your walking adventures. Hiking shoes differ from hiking boots, with a more flexible sole for comfort, and they lack the protective cuff supporting and cushioning the ankles. With greater freedom of movement they are more comfortable to wear, and are ideal for short walks or daylong hikes. If you are planning on more extensive hiking trips, are likely to be carrying a heavy load, or want to hike on highly uneven and rocky trails, you will be better off with a hiking boot, which will protect against rolling of the ankle and give greater support.
The lightweight and versatile hiking shoe designs are perfect for everyday wear and dog walking, whilst they can cope well with all off-road hikes on all but the most abrasive rocky mountain trails. Many hiking shoes are based on the trainer designs, offering the comfort fit of a multi-sport shoe, with the protection and support of a hiking boot.
Many manufacturers use the same design for their hiking shoes and boots, just adding a protective cuff to turn the shoe to a mid-boot, to retain the comfort fit and lightweight design.
If you are planning on light to moderate hiking, hiking shoes offer the best choice. Keep an eye out for the following criteria when choosing your shoes to ensure you have the technology underfoot to give the maximum cross-terrain performance.
Lightweight construction
One of the main benefits of hiking shoes is a lightweight construction, offering a considerable weight saving over heavier hiking boots; however there is considerable variation in weight between the major outdoor performance footwear brands. lightweight hiking shoes will keep you light on your feet, and will save your strength to keep muscle fatigue at bay, and will make light work of all-terrain walking. To keep the weight down to the bare minimum, choose hiking shoes with mesh and synthetic uppers. The construction still offers robustness and usually features nubuck , suede and leather panels for added durability, whilst keeping the shoes highly breathable.
Durable rubber outsole
The rubber compound used on the outsole should be designed to give stickiness for great off road traction, whilst being highly durable to cope with abrasive terrain. Most walkers and light hikers cover highly variable terrain, and require a compound which maximises cross-surface grip, whilst being highly durable for a long lifespan. Most hiking shoes cannot be resoled, so durability is of major importance if you want the maximum lifespan. Keep an eye out for Vibram rubber outsoles, which offer a great balance of stickiness for off-road grip and a durable blend of rubbers for maximum durability.
Breathability
Even when walking in winter, the feet will sweat from exertion, and a highly breathable design will help to maximise air-flow and allow steam and moisture to escape. Mesh uppers are ideal to increase airflow to keep the feet cool and comfortable throughout the year. If you already own a pair of hiking boots for winter walking, a lightweight and highly breathable pair of hiking shoes is a great choice from the spring through to the autumn. For the maximum in dryness, look for a model with good moisture wicking properties in both the lining and the insole to speed up the movement of water out of the shoes. To maintain perfect foot health and to prevent odour, choose a model with an anti-microbial treatment. If the feet are damp, the skin softens maximising the chance of blisters forming, and the better the moisture management is, the greater the comfort will be.
Waterproofing
For all weather hiking and walking choose waterproof hiking shoes with a Gore-Tex lining, or gasket. Gore-Tex offers a 100% waterproof and windproof construction to keep the elements from spoiling your walk. Gore-Tex fabric is lightweight and contains millions of microscopic holes which are too small to allow water to pass through, whilst being large enough for smaller steam molecules to escape. Some companies have developed their own lightweight fabrics which function in the same way, with Hi-Tec using eVent for their hiking shoes.
If you check off each of these features before you buy, you will be sure to have a highly comfortable pair of shoes which are great for day to day use, but can hold their own on more challenging terrain and will keep your feet perfectly protected no matter where you decide to walk.
Popularity: unranked [?]
Heading out into the countryside for a spot of hill walking, or going for a walk in the woods is one of life’s great pleasures, so make sure you’ve got the right shoes on your feet with our walking footwear guide.
Getting some fresh air in the lungs and a spot of healthy aerobic exercise offers many benefits to the body and will help to improve both physical and mental health. However before you head out into the great outdoors it is important that you get your footwear sorted. Whilst many modern outdoor trainers will be up to the job of keeping you cool, comfortable and well protected, most lack the support and comfort necessary for long treks, and come up short when dealing with uneven ground and highly variable terrain. If you want to be kept in perfect comfort and are keen not to let blisters and abrasions spoil your day, it’s time to invest in a high quality pair of walking boots.
What to look for in a pair of walking boots
Walking boots offer greater protection for the feet than standard shoes and trainers, with increased cushioning underfoot to help keep the muscles working efficiently to keep you walking for longer. If you head off-road you will have to walk across highly variable terrain which places an extra strain on the feet and requires suitable protection, support and cushioning. On the trail and for hill and fell walking, sharp rocks and spikes can leave the feet bruised with sharp objects capable of piercing trainers and injuring the feet. Walking shoes and boots offer the right level of protection, however many hardened walkers opt for a walking boot to give extra protection to the ankles. The padded cuff in mid boots offers extra support to prevent twisted ankles over highly uneven terrain. If you are planning on walking in all weather conditions and covering challenging terrain, a pair of robust walking boots is the perfect choice.
Lightweight construction
Whether you plan on just taking the dog for a walk or going on extended treks, find a pair of lightweight walking boots. Outdoor performance brands such as HI-TEC, Merrell, Salomon, Brasher and Berghaus construct walking boots using the latest technological advances to keep the weight of the boots down to the absolute minimum. What may seem like just a few extra grams at the start of the walk, can add up as you clock up the miles, and a lightweight design will keep you fresh on your feet for longer, helping to keep muscle fatigue at bay. A predominantly mesh upper, such as with the Merrell Moab Mid Gore Tex XCR, is ideal for most walking adventures, offering a great weight saving over heavier leather boots, yet still offers excellent protection and a highly durable construction. However for classic style, comfort and the ultimate in protection, leather walking boots are a great choice.
Breathability
One of the main complaints from walkers on long hikes is that the feet start to get hot and perspiration becomes a problem. As moisture builds up, the skin on the feet gets soft and blisters can easily form, making walking highly uncomfortable. Choose a pair of walking boots which are highly breathable with good moisture wicking properties, and your feet will be kept perfectly cool and comfortable, ensuring that blisters and abrasions will not spoil your day. Mesh uppers maximise air flow and promote the escape of moisture and steam, and moisture wicking linings in the uppers and footbed will ensure that the feet are kept perfectly dry, even on strenuous walks and long treks.
Waterproof design
With the boots able to deal with internal water, make sure that your walking boots can cope with the elements. For all weather walking, choose a pair of walking boots with a waterproof construction to let you walk in all weather conditions. Many walking boots feature Gore-Tex fabric for total weatherproofing, or in the case of HI-TEC, eVent fabric. Both of these materials are impermeable to external water, offer protection from the wind, and will not hinder breathability. Waterproof walking boots generally have an XCR or GTX notation to make it easy to tell if they feature a Gore-Tex gasket, which will keep the feet perfectly dry when the heavens open, and will deal with standing water. A bellows tongue will complete the seal so that even small streams will not stop you in your tracks. Before you buy, check to see if the boots have an anti-microbial treatment, which will prevent nasty smells taking hold and will ensure your feet are kept in a healthy environment.
Choosing a high quality pair of purpose designed walking boots from one of the major outdoor brands will assure you of the necessary support and comfort, no matter where you plan to walk. As long as the boots you are planning on buying have technology to combat each of the above factors, it will just be a case of choosing the most attractive style, however with such a large range available at Fitness Footwear, it may take you a little while to decide! If in any doubt about the best boots to buy for your walking requirements, visit FitnessFootwear.com for further details, or give our customer service hotline a call, and our staff will be happy to help you pick out the best walking boots for the job at hand.
What to look for in a pair of walking shoes
If you want to have the maximum flexibility, support and comfort for your feet, then a pair of walking shoes is the best choice. Offering a similar level of protection and comfort as walking boots, the lightweight design helps you to walk for longer and keep muscle fatigue at bay. What’s the difference between outdoor shoes and walking shoes? Not a great deal in actual fact! Most of the major outdoor brand names produce trainer styles which are ideal for walking. However there is a big difference between walking shoes and standard sports trainers. Standard sports trainers offer great support and cushioning for day to day use, but on the trail and for long walks over varied terrain many brands come up short. If you want to have the maximum protection for the feet and sufficient cushioning to get you through the longest walks and treks, a purpose designed pair of walking shoes is the best option.
Support & Cushioning
For long walks and off-road trekking, the feet are placed under increased strain and to counter this walking shoes offer exceptional support and cushioning to keep the arches of the feet well supported over difficult terrain. As the feet get tired, the muscles and ligaments stop working as efficiently, and if not correctly supported can lead to injuries. The major walking shoe manufacturers use the latest materials technology to keep the arches high and well supported to prevent the feet from getting tired. Walking shoes feature shock absorbing EVA cushioning in the heel to take the sting out of hard surfaces, and cushion late and heavy heel strikes for maximum comfort on downhill descents. Featuring the latest technology to improve the efficiency of the stride, they work in harmony with the musculature of the feet to help you go the extra mile
Lightweight Design
A lightweight construction can make all the difference to your energy levels, helping to prevent the muscles from getting fatigued, whilst keeping the shoes highly flexible. Merrell and HI-Tec are leaders in producing lightweight walking shoes, using innovative designs and highly lightweight materials in the construction of the uppers and outsoles. HI-Tec aim to shave 10-15% off competitor brands to produce ultra lightweight walking shoes, keeping you light on your feet and not adding to the weight you have to carry. Whilst all brands keep the weight down to the minimum, durability is never compromised with reinforcing leathers and suede’s to add extra robustness to the designs to ensure a long lifespan to see a good few years of use.
Waterproofing
Heading out into the countryside can leave you exposed to the elements. The wind can whip up, rain clouds can roll in, and if you are some way from home you will need to have waterproof protection for your feet. If you plan to walk in all weather conditions, a pair of waterproof walking shoes is the best option. Gore-Tex fabric offers a windproof and waterproof layer to prevent water from getting into your shoes, with many brands offering a Gore-Tex gasket for a complete seal so that even if the going gets somewhat aquatic, water will not seep in through the uppers.
Traction
Walking on earth, rock, through thick mud and back home on urban surfaces requires expert traction across the full range of surfaces. Walking shoes allow you to take all terrain in your stride, giving excellent grip on off-road surfaces with sticky rubber compounds combining expert traction on soft ground with high durability to cope with abrasive surfaces. The tread patterns in walking shoes has been designed to maximise walking speed across all terrain, with multi-directional lugs to give real bite on soft ground, and outsole designs which will not clog up with mud and add to the weight you need to carry.
Merrell, HI-TEC, Carn, North Face, Brasher and Salomon are all names which can be trusted to offer the maximum support and cushioning for long walks in comfort, with an excellent range of styles to keep you looking good, with lightweight designs capable of super heavy weight performance.
What to look for in a pair of walking sandals
In the summertime when the living is easy, the last thing you will want on your feet is a pair of walking boots. Whilst you may have invested a tidy sum in a high quality pair of boots to last you throughout the year, you really can’t beat getting some air between the toes for cool comfort on the trail and for all of your summer walking adventures. High quality walking boots and shoes from outdoor performance brands are highly breathable and lightweight for all year round walking, however for the maximum use in the summer you really can’t beat a pair of walking sandals. Fashionable designs, great support and highly comfortable footbeds will see you wearing nothing else all summer, being ideal for casual wear around the house and garden as well as for taking on the trail and all of your summer adventures.
Not all sandals are the same, and whilst there are many outdoor models on the market, most summer sandals are not up to the rigours of off-road walking. Fashion sandals, flip-flops and even robust leather sandals often lack the support and grip for off-road adventuring. Choosing the right pair of walking sandals can be a difficult choice with so many brands and models on the market, however if you follow these pointers it will help to narrow down the choice and ensure you pick a model which is up to the job at hand.
Lightweight design
You don’t want to be weighed down in the summer, so lightweight walking sandals are the order of the day, saving all important energy for walking in the heat of the summer sun. Changing over to walking sandals can save a couple of pounds in weight which can really be felt on a long walk. However, look out for the most lightweight designs which will keep you light on your feet and walking for longer between rest stops. Just because you have slimmed down your footwear, it doesn’t mean that you have to reduce the support, with the top outdoor brands adapting their technology to give a similar level of support and cushioning as their walking shoe ranges. Look for a deep heel cup and a low profile design to offer extra protection and stability, and choose a model which has instep stability supports, to prevent torque over uneven ground.
Robust construction
Whilst you may decide to change your walking habits in the summer months and opt for less exhausting hikes, wearing walking sandals does not mean you have to stay on the path well trodden. Performance walking sandals are designed to cope with pretty rough treatment, and all off-road adventures can be taken in your stride. Most walking sandals feature robust uppers, with pig suede, nubuck and leather some of the best materials to choose. The odd summer shower will not be a problem if you choose a pair of waterproof walking sandals, which will give you the maximum versatility throughout the summer. Hybrid sandals are a great choice, offering the support of a hiking shoe with the amphibious performance of a water sandal, allowing you to walk anywhere in comfort. If you want to be able to go into the water without having to take your sandals off, choose a model with quick drying uppers which are waterproof, as water resistant walking sandals are designed to cope with the occasional shower rather than full on aquatic adventures.
Protection
Whether you choose to walk through water to keep cool or prefer to stick to dry land, protection for the feet is highly important. Many walking sandals offer an open toe design with a concave sole to give an extra degree of protection to the toes, with the foot sitting low in the sandal for extra security. Whilst these models allow for maximum air flow, if you want to sure not to stub your toes, there are many walking sandals with an enclosed toe box and bumper, of which the Keen Newport and Merrell Chameleon Cargo are two of the best examples.
Multi-Surface Grip
Summer is a time for relaxing and enjoyment, and whilst rain is not so much of a problem in the summer, you can never fully rely on the British weather. A sudden summer shower can quickly turn the trail into mud, and your sandals need to have the grip and tread pattern to cope. Many walking sandals feature sticky rubber outsoles to help stick to the trail in both the wet and the dry, with razor sipped tread patterns to cope with surface water. The Merrell Chameleon Kahuna is a great multi-surface sandal with a tread pattern designed to maximise traction off road, yet function perfectly well around town. Chances are that your walking sandals will rarely leave your feet throughout the summer, so excellent cross-terrain grip is a must. Choose a model which offers a good balance of stickiness for grip, with a robust rubber compound for durability and your sandals are sure to last for a good few summers.
At FitnessFootwear.com we have an extensive range of walking sandals from the best outdoor performance brands such as Keen, Merrell, North Face, Teva and Ecco. With extensive styles and great colours, no matter where your summer adventure takes you, you can count on perfect protection, great support and pure comfort for the feet, and if you are planning on travelling abroad, a robust pair of walking sandals should be first on the list of items to pack in your suitcase.
Popularity: unranked [?]
With another heat wave predicted and temperatures of 31º expected today, the Merrell Chameleon Cargo is our sandal of choice for the scorching summer heat.
Whilst The Sun won’t have to work too hard creating its headlines for the next month or so, for the rest of us, the heat means hard work struggling to keep cool. Here at Fitness Footwear we can offer a solution to hot sweaty feet with a range of summer sandals designed to maximise airflow to the feet, to keep them cool and comfortable.
Merrell Chameleon Cargo sandals are one of the best shoes to have on your feet when the temperatures soar. Not quite a sandal and not quite a hiking shoe, the Chameleon Cargo combines the best feature of both, being highly supportive and comfortable for walking and hiking, and lightweight and airy to keep the feet cool.
These hybrid shoes are the perfect summer sandals, being robust and protective to keep your feet in perfect comfort whilst challenging terrain. For the trail, the garden and everyday wear they are ideal, and you can even get them wet and not have to worry. The support comes from robust nubuck fingers which cradle the foot, whilst allowing the air to get in to keep cool and water to get out after crossing streams. Featuring the Chameleon speed sole, it offers excellent grip on loose and hard packed surfaces, and great traction in the wet. Easily adjusted with speed lacing bungee cord, the shoes are highly versatile and can be worn as a sandal or a slide thanks to a removable heel strap.
The Chameleon Cargo is designed to go anywhere, with excellent shock absorption provided by the Merrell Air Cushion running the length of the midsole, and a protective moulded rubber toe cap to prevent stubbing your toe when covering rocky ground. Versatile, cool, comfortable and supportive, it is the perfect partner for all of your summer adventures, and the ideal sandal to help you cope with the blistering heat of yet another fiercely hot summer.
To check out the full range of stylish Merrell summer sandals, visit: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-155-merrell-sandals.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]