Don’t miss out on our Hot Deals for the cold weather conditions. With an extra 10% off our already heavily discounted footwear, now’s the time to treat yourself while stocks last! Offer expires midnight Monday 25th Octobe 2010.
With Halloween, Bon Fire night and then Christmas on its way, we’ve put together a hotter offer to keep you cosy through the cold weather conditions.
Simply type FFW10 into the coupon box at the checkout for the your extra discount!
So whether you’re looking for a new pair of boots for walking the dog or some rugged outdoor trainers that you won’t mind getting muddy, you can enjoy an Extra 10% Off all this weekend at FitnessFootwear.com.
Now the weather’s turned cold, even our staff are looking for a bargain, with many of us tempted by Merrell walking boots, North Face Trainers and even ladies snow boots. Throw in some warm, winter socks and our feet couldn’t be more cosy.
So what do you need for the cold weather?
Visit www.FitnessFootwear.com for all your sports and outdoor shoe needs.
Popularity: unranked [?]
The girls at FitnessFootwear.com really do love their snow boots. So much so that we’ve ordered in even more styles of snow boots from the best loved outdoor brands.
That means more Merrell ladies snow boots, more North Face apres ski boots and even more Caterpillar winter boots to keep your feet toasty warm throughout the winter.
Is winter even here yet? Well, it’s getting a lot colder, so that has to count for something. All the same, our ladies winter boots are still selling fast.
The men are probably wondering what we have for them and while snow boots is mostly a women’s market, the mens alternatives are much more manly and function, which suits them down to the ground.
We have a select few styles of mens snow boots available, all of which are built to march up mountains while offering premium comfort, support, cushioning and waterproof protection while being incredibly warm thanks to state of the art insulation -all while being relatively lightweight as well!
Mens winter boots on the other hand are typically associated with walking boots that are both warm and waterproof with good grip for making their way to the newsagents or walking the dog in the depths of winter and without slipping on the ice.
So whether you’re staying warm in style, trudging through the snowy mountains or walking the dog when it’s really cold, check out our rapidly growing range of snow boots while stocks last: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/s-234-snow-boots.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
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 [?]
Starting with tomorrow night’s X Factor, Reebok are relaunching their ReeTone television campaign for their Reebok EasyTone toning trainers.
Throughout summer Reebok EasyTone shoes have been endorsed by Kelly Brook who appeared naked in posters worldwide, wearing nothing but a pair of the toning trainers.
Meanwhile, to appeal to a male audience with a focus on fitness and training, Reebok has also been endorsed by Footballers Thierry Henry and Ryan Giggs while Formular One racing driver Lewis Hamilton training in Reebok RunTone trainers. Yet, oddly, no one has been endorsing the Reebok TrainTone
The first Reebok ReeTone television marketing campaign was a runaway success and like so many other stores, we completely sold out in a matter of days!
This time we’ve secured lots more stock, so our only problem is going to be getting it all out of the door on Monday morning. But for us, that’s a nice problem to have,
This Saturday evening, the ReeTone television campaign begins anew with heavy exposure around Simon Cowell’s latest series of The X Factor airing on ITV1 at 7:30pm.
Desperate to get your hands on a pair of Reebok EasyTone trainers before stocks sell out again? Then get them here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-401-reebok-easytone.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
It’s like Christmas here at FitnessFootwear.com, because that’s how much we all love Merrell shoes. Owning your first pair of Merrells is almost part of the induction into the company. So as you can see, Merrell is a brand that we’re all very passionate about.
Our Autumn drop arrived first thing this morning, bringing with it the new Merrell Colour Stories – ranges of mens and womens shoes all coloured to match the seasons from men’s Autumnal terracota and rust to the cool womens’s Winter violet collection.
Best of all, we’ve now got the Merrell Refuge Pro GTX. It fits very much like the Merrell Intercept but with a batter grip, a little more cushioning underfoot, better wrap around fit and of course, complete waterproof protection thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane.
After yesterdays rain, the summer is well and truly over. Autumn is here and Merrell is simply the best footwear brand to embrace it in comfort, quality and style.
We’ve been out ‘shoe spotting’ recently and were amazed by the number of people out wearing Merrell trainers. Then again, more people than ever seem to be wearing outdoor shoes rather than traditionally trendy trainers. Could there be a shift in fashionable footwear? If so, then Merrell will be more popular than ever this year.
Not got your Merrells yet? Check out our massive range at 10% Off with Free UK delivery here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-2-merrell.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]
Today our Skechers rep popped in with a bag full of the latest Skechers Shape Ups shoes for us to cast our eyes over. Suffice to say, we liked what we saw amongst the dazzling number of pink ladies trainers.
Pink is diffinately the direction Skechers are taking with many of their toning shoes while expanding the range to include all manner of trainers designed for enhancing every step you take whether walking to work, running on the roads or taking a walk in the park.
Read the low down on the latest styles:
Skechers Shape Ups Resistance Runner
First up is the new Skechers Shape Ups Resistance Runner. We had the preview video up last week and liked what we saw. Skechers is evolving their Shape Ups range for runners, offering an active toning trainer to help athletes build up to the big race. They’re also great for casual runners looking to get a little extra out of their morning run. Skechers Resistance Runners are designed for running, but also lend themselves to other activities.
* SKECHERS Shape-ups Resistor SRR running shoe has amazing technology to enhance performance
* Leather, synthetic and mesh fabric upper
* Stitching and overlay details
* Mesh side panels with protective overlay
* Side S logo detail
* Lace up front
* Padded collar and tongue
* Soft fabric shoe lining
* Removable Adaptive Comfort Ride cushioned insole
* Kinetic Wedge midsole
* Kinetic Return System midsole
* High Viscosity Kinetic Wedge technology absorbs energy, minimizing impact
* Kinetic Wedge creates resistance to maximize your workout
* High abrasion ultra light rubber outsole
* 1 1/2 inch midsole at center point
* Studies show up to 13.2% more calories burned
* Helps increase postural muscle activation up to 85%
* Helps increase gluteus medius muscle activation up to 71%
* Helps increase calf muscle activation up to 68%
Skechers Shape Ups Resistance Training Shoes
Built for cross training, Skechers Shape Ups Resistant Trainers are designed for enhanced resistance training and accelerated muscle activation when taking gym classes, circuit training or getting a generall all-round workout. They’re better for multi-directional use, but are equally good for running. Skechers Resistance Trainers are great for cross-training, bootcamp style workouts and resistance training.
* Perfect for those who want to maximize their workout
* Smooth leather, synthetic and mesh fabric upper
* Contrast stitching detail
* Textured synthetic toe and heel bumpers
* Side stripe overlays
* Cooling mesh panels at front and sides
* Contrast colored edging detail
* SKECHERS S and Shape-ups logo
* Lace up front
* Padded collar and tongue
* Fabric shoe lining
* Advanced Stabilization Insole includes a rigid heel for added support and stability
* Roll Bridge in midfoot increases side to side stability
* Two part soft and firm density midsole gives maximum fitness benefits, support and stability
* Kinetic Wedge super soft foam midsole to absorb shock and provide exercise
* Flexible rubber traction sole
Skechers Shape Ups All Terrain
What’s the difference between the new Skechers Resistance Runner and Skechers All Terrain? The grip! Eessentially the same kind of toning trainer with more rugged outdoor looks and better treads, allowing you to take your walking workout off the pavement and on to the tough terrain or the great outdoors -or just a casual stroll in the park. It’s entirely up to you! The Skechers All Terrain will be available in a selection of earthy, natural colours and with the increasing popularity of outdoor shoes as everyday casual footwear, this could be a good move on Skechers part who seem to have nailed the perfect blend of fitness and fashion so far.
* Take your Shape-ups off roading with the Diamondback AT toning sneaker
* Leather, synthetic and durable mesh fabric upper
* Lace up cross trainer sneaker design
* Stitching accents
* Leather and synthetic overlays
* Contrast colored edging
* Textured woven fabric panels for durable breathable design
* Side S logo
* Adjustable precise fit straps
* Lace up front
* Padded collar and tongue
* Soft fabric shoe lining
* Removable cushioned comfort insole
* Combination Wave Technology midsole for advanced energy return
* Stabilizing external heel clip
* Motion Control Cage midsole provides excellent lateral stability
* Kinetic Wedge midsole provides advanced fitness benefits
* 1 3/4 inch midsole at middle section
* ProBlade Xtreme all terrain design flexible rubber traction outsole
* Lugs and treads on sole
As well as all these new functional Skechers Shape Ups designs, we’ve also been told to expect an increase in the Skechers Shape Ups Extended Wear range as more people than ever wear Shape Ups on their commute to work. With a great selection of traditional office shoe styles on offer, Shape Ups XW are going to be incredibly popular!
That’s all for now, but stay tuned for Skechers Shape Ups Toners and many more exciting styles from the growing Skechers Shape Ups collection.
Popularity: unranked [?]
We check out the new Caterpillar Depict Hi light hiking boot. The new Cat Depict Hi mid cut boot features Caterpillar treads and blends outdoors function with everyday fashion perfectly thanks to its i-Technology EVA midsole, classic Caterpillar fabric, styling and Good Year welt.
It’s rare that a fashion boot really grabs our attention at FitnessFootwear.com, because we’re usually busy out walking, running or falling in the river. But today the Caterpillar Depict Hi arrived and we instantly stood up and took notice.
We like Cat boots as much as the next man, but it was clear to see that this was something a little bit special and all of us instantly liked the Caterpillar treads than ran the full length of the sole. Because if there’s one thing Caterpillar boots have often suffered with in the past, it’s the chunky treads, which don’t really offer much traction when it comes to direction.
These are a different story however. Made from fine quality full grain leather, classic Cat styling and the Good Year welt, like all Caterpillar boots, the Cat Depict Hi looks great, but now feature i-Technology and an improved sole.
I-Technology is simply an EVA midsole focussed around the heel for extra cushioning. But what a difference it makes, especially for a whole day on your feet. Finally, the Caterpillar tread makes walking off road much easier and has even been slightly slanted to allow for better grip when walking forwards. It’s not as effective at walking backwards, but it’s still not bad.
Caterpillar are calling this their light hiking boot. We wouldn’t take it hiking, but we’d certainly take it out for a walk with the dog. A perfectly good looking, well made boot from Caterpillar. Definitely worth swapping your summer sandals for now the cold and wet weather is starting to come in.
If you can’t wait for the Caterpillar Depict Hi or are looking to replace your old Colorado boots in time for winter, then check out our full range of Cat shoes and Caterpillar boots here: http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-82-caterpillar.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 [?]
Britain’s best selling hiking boot has just got better. The Brasher Hillmaster II GTX offers luxurous comfort, a new, improved look and upgraded performance in mens’and women’s fit. Perfect for hill and valley walking!
The iconic brown leather walking boot returns. The Brasher Hillmaster II GTX is the evolution of the original Brasher Hillmaster hill walking boot from back in the early 80s.
30 years on, it’s remarkable to think just how radical the first Hillmaster boot was. Back in the day, the standard walking boot was big and heavy with steel shanks and rubbed a lot of blisters. But then Chris Brasher discarded his boots half way through a trek in Wales and put his running trainers on instead. Upon getting to the end of his adventure, he hit upon the concept of a walking boot that would be just as comfortable and supportive as a running trainer. After all, if he could comfortable walk for countless miles in his trainers, he should be able to do so in a pair of equally light and flexible walking boots.
Ironic then, that super lightweight hiking boots are only just begining to be embraced in the world of outdoor walking. But that’s another story…
The important thing is that the Brasher Hillmaster was the first traditional brown leather walking boot to be lightweight, flexible and featured the early Gore-Tex breathable, waterproof membrane. Having been the best selling walking boot of all time and the inspiration behind ever walking boot ever since, the Brasher Hillmaster has evolved into the Brasher Hillmaster II GTX for the modern market.
Set for release in Spring 2011, the Brasher Hillmaster II GTX offers a number of modern features with a gender specific fit and updated styling while still holding on to the traditional concept of a classic brown leather walking boot.
Meanwhile a modern Hillmaster sole unit reduces the lug depth while increasing the surface area in contact with the ground in order to give greater stability and grip while picking up less mud and stones with each step.
This time Brasher has gone for full grain leather uppers for their Hillmaster II which varies between 2.2mm and 2.4mm thickness for men and 2.0mm and 2.2mm for women. Brasher has been very conscious of gender this time around and there’s also a new tongue system, a soft leather inner lining as well as added heel support and memory foam for a softer, snugger and more secure fit. And of course, not forgetting the Gore-Tex breathable, waterproof membrane.
Finally, the new Brasher Hillmaster II GTX weights in at 1412g per pair (706g each), which is 200g more than the original Brasher Hillmaster and it will be sold at an RRP of £145 while the current Hillmaster is priced at £120. Despite being heavier and more expensive, you get a lot more boot for your buck and we can expect many traditional brown leather walking boot lovers to be eagerly awaiting the official launch of the Brasher Hillmaster II GTX in March 2011.
In the meantime, stay tuned for more info about the forthcoming Spring/Summer 2011 range of Brasher walking boots at FitnessFootwear.com!
Popularity: unranked [?]
We’re a little shoe crazy here at FitnessFootwear.com, but once in a while a shoe arrives that blows even our socks off. We’ve been reviewing the new 2011 Vibram Five Fingers range all week, but one of the new shoes really impressed us and set the standard high for any brand looking to make barefoot or minimalist footwear -and that’s the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport.
Instantly comfortable, effortless to slip on and pretty much everything you could ever wish for in a barefoot running shoe. But will barefoot purists approve of its cushioned insole? Read our in depth review of the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport and see for yourself.
Technical Specs
aggressive multisport design
stretch nylon upper
heel and instep hook-and-loop closure
stitch free, seamless 2mm PU footbed to reduce friction
EVA arch support
individual toe pockets seperate and strengthen toes
4mm vibram performance rubber outsole for grip and protection
Looks
When it comes to appearance the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport looks every bit the technical sports performance shoe that it is. Borrowing design elements from the KSO and Bikila before restyling them into something sleeker and far more aggressive, these Five Fingers are covered in eye catching details. The Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport comes in a choice of black/bronze, black/grey and yellow/black colours for men (we liked the yellow/black the best). Meanwhile for women, there’s a choice of black/bronze and blue/yellow. The blue/yellow looks surprisingly good too. After all, if you’re going to wear unusual shoes, you may as well be bold about it!
Fit
Effortlessly easy to slip on just like the Bikila, your feet slide straight into the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport and your toes easily find the right place while providing plenty of room to wiggle, and without slipping out.
Pull the heel and instep straps to whatever tightness you prefer, stick then in place with the Velcro underside and you’re good to go.
The Komodo Sport fits very comfortably around the heel and ankle. Once again, by raising the cuff, the newer range fo Vibrams don’t pull on the toes and instead forms a strong, secure and snug hold around the ankle.
Feel
Even though there’s soft footbed and extra cushioning and grip across the full length of the foot, there’s still a lot of feeling in your feet. Walking or running, you still get a fully detailed feel, especially in the toes which have a lot of freedom to wiggle. The great thing about the Komodo Sport is all the extra cushioning. You could walk, but not run, in these heel striking all the way and it wouldn’t bother you. While that goes against the whole point of barefoot shoes, it’s a lot more forgiving when you do forget your gait and smash your heel into the tarmac. As Vibram’s Five Fingers line develops, it seems to be more about providing protection and support for your barefoot training rather than punishing you for getting it wrong.
One thing that’s really interesting is the sole, because there’s a huge chunk missing from the inside of the midfoot. Instead is a peice of tough, connective rubber, presumably to hold the shoe together and provide a bit of protection from whatever’s on the ground. But this part of the shoe is never used by your foot to make contact with the ground. That makes quite a big saving on weight, which explains how the Komodo Sport is so lightweight despire all the extra material, padding and straps.
Although there’s plenty of breathability, they are quite warm. This won’t bother you when you’re running about, playing basket ball or whatever, but for casual wear it’s quite noticeable. However, the irresistably cosy fit more than makes up for this. Plus you can comfortably wear them during the colder times of the year without a care.
What We’d Use Them For
We have to agree with Vibram that their Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport is designed for running and fitness, but its perfectly suited to all kinds of sports as well as casual wear. Something this comfortable shouldn’t be worn just for sports. If it wasn’t for the footbed, then you could wear these watersports just like regular KSOs.
Blended together from the KSO and Bikila, the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport is the perfect shoe for the core barefoot demographic. It’s great for running, walking and sports in general while being comfortable, supportive and stylish.
Will there be a backlash from barefoot purists over the soft footbed? Some won’t like it, but others will appreciate that your feet won’t need to ache quite so much from going ‘minimalist’ with their footwear.
Final Thoughts
You certainly get what you pay for with the Komodo Sport, even if you do pay a lot for it. We expect this to become the mostly highly sought after Vibram Five Finger shoe simply because it’s got everything. You can do virtually anything in it and go anywhere.
It’s a huge leap forward from the original Vibram Five Fingers Classic, combining the features of the two best selling ‘advanced’ Vibram Five Finger styles, taking the comfort, fit and protection of the KSO and combining it with a sole a toe fit that’s similar to the Bikilas.
Like with the rest of the new 2011 Five Fingers range, Vibram has paid attention to the heel area, providing more cushioning for any barefoot gait slip ups as well as more padding around the heel area of the foot itself for a more comfortable fit.
If you’re trying barefoot for the first time and you’ve got money to burn, get yourself a pair of these. They may be very technical, but they’re still perfect for an entry level barefooter. But we can safely assume that most will progress up to them from the standard Vibram Five Fingers Classic.
So, to round up: Unless you’re going off road in serious mud and filth or doing water sports (in which case you’d want the Treksport or KSO), the Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport is the best Five Finger shoe for running, walking, sports, comfort, fit and style. That’s right, THE BEST.
The Vibram Five Fingers Komodo Sport will be avaialble to buy from our Vibram Five Fingers UK store in Spring/Summer 2011.
5/5 – The creme de la creme of Vibram Five Fingers. Instantly comfortable, great looking and highly versatile for a wide range of sports and everyday casual wear. The perfect barefoot shoe for the barefoot demographic.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our Vibram Five Fingers reviews. Stay tuned for more product reviews, previews and the latest sports and outdoors news right here at the Fitness Footwear Blog.
Popularity: unranked [?]
The autumn / winter 2010 collection from The North Face sees this legendary performance footwear company give even greater protection for the feet, with a new collection of shoes and boots designed to cope with the rigours of mountain life. You can rest assured that North Face footwear will keep your feet warm and toasty at base camp, and perfectly protected over the toughest extreme terrain.
The North Face has developed a host of technologies to keep the feet perfectly supported and in total comfort in the most treacherous conditions. Wintergrip™ rubber outsoles are hard wearing with the right balance of stickiness for coping with the slipperiest of conditions, perfect for winter traction on snow and ice. The North Face SnakePlate™ offers highly flexible yet supportive forefoot protection to give great feel without compromising support and cushioning. Robust and durable uppers ensure a long life span, and lightweight highly insulating linings are sure to keep the feet perfectly warm when the temperatures outside the tent drop well below freezing. With the North Face on your feet, you can be sure that wherever you put your feet you will get the maximum protection and the latest 2010 autumn winter styles are guaranteed not to disappoint.
North Face Tent Mule III
For lovers of the great outdoors, and those seeking pure comfort for the great indoors there is the North Face Tent Mule III. The highly protective and comfortable slipper is perfect for slipping on the feet after a hard day’s trekking, offering an ultra lightweight design ideal for rest and relaxation. Offering a little luxury at base camp, they are equally suited to the home and the garden, providing expert grip, warmth and pure comfort for the feet. The improved designs for the Tent Mule III gives an even better fit, greater insulation and underfoot support to make them one of the most comfortable slippers on the market.
The Tent Mule features highly insulating 450 fill down insulation to keep the toes warm and toasty when the outside temperatures plummet. If you have ever wondered what happens to your recycled plastic bottles, take a look at the Tent Mule. The uppers are constructed from 100% recycled PET, which offers perfect protection from the elements with a 100% waterproof upper to keep the feet dry when venturing out of the tent and for pottering around the campfire. The slippers feature die cut EVA sockliners for comfort, Aegis anti-microbial treatments for great foot health, and sticky lugs on the outsole for perfect grip on snow and ice. Three new models for men and women for the 2010 autumn winter collection are sure to make this rugged slipper even more popular this season.
New Men’s North Face Tent Mule III models
North Face NSE Tent Mule – Black
North Face NSE Tent Mule – Camo Green
North Face NSE Tent Mule – Demitasse Brown/Black
New Women’s North Face Tent Mule III models
North Face NSE Tent Mule III – Black
North Face NSE Tent Mule III – Demitasse Brown Lace
North Face NSE Tent Mule III – Moonlight Ivory Lace and Classic Khaki
North Face Traction Mule
If you love the comfort and design of the Tent Mule, but want a little extra protection and grip, then the North Face Traction Mule takes the protection up a notch to cope with difficult base camp conditions. Offering even greater protection than the Tent Mule, the rubber outsole is designed to cope with the most slippery of surfaces and keep you on your feet. The outsole is constructed from 40% recycled materials, offering one of the most environmentally friendly shoes produced by the North Face. Featuring the same waterproof 100% recycled PET construction for the uppers as the Tent Mule you will have warmth, comfort and protection with a clear conscience.
Under the foot, a die cut soft EVA footbed moulds closely to the sole providing excellent shock absorption, perfect for short trips in the great outdoors, be it around the garden or around base camp. Designed to give the feet a much needed rest after a long day in hiking boots, the soft uppers and highly insulating design will assure your feet are kept toasty and warm at all times. The 2010 collection offers two new models, with a stylish, plush black model for the men and brown and ivory for women.
New Men’s North Face Traction Mule models
North Face NSE Traction Mule – Black
New Women’s North Face Traction Mule models
North Face NSE Traction Mule – Shiny Moonlight Ivory and Demitasse Brown
Women’s North Face Nuptse
Taking the highly comfortable design of North Face slippers as the base, the North Face Nuptse increases the protection for the feet and ankles with a highly flexible and comfortable pull on boot design. Featuring a Wintergrip™ sole for maximum traction in slippery conditions with Ice Pick temperature sensitive snowflake lugs, they are perfect for cold weather walks when the temperatures plummet and frost, snow, and ice are the order of the day. An excellent lightweight boot to take on all your winter sporting adventures, you will be assured of perfect traction no matter where you care to tread.
The boots feature 100% recycled P.E.T for the uppers, forming a perfectly waterproof seal, with 100% recycled faux fur trip, and 600g of fill power insulation to ensure the feet are kept in the ultimate comfort, no matter what the weather has in store. Two snap closure fasteners make for easy removal and tightening with cold fingers, and the fashionable styling makes them one of the most attractive winter boots ever produced by the North Face. An Ortholite Northotic footbed ensures perfect comfort underfoot, a cut and buff EVA midsole cushions well over the full range of terrain, and they look pretty cool and stylish too, with three new models to choose from.
New Women’s North Face Nuptse models
North Face Nuptse Pull On – Black and Dark Shadow Grey
North Face Nuptse Pull On – Moonlight Ivory Lace and Classic Khaki
North Face Nuptse Fur IV – Black
North Face Syncline GTX
For those who take their outdoor adventure seriously and want the ultimate in protection for long winter hikes, the latest models of the North Face Syncline GTX will be right up your street. This highly protective rugged hiking boot features durable nubuck leather uppers with a fully waterproof Gore-Tex membrane to cope with the worst of the weather. The super lightweight design is sure to keep you light on your feet, without losing any protection or stability. Constructed with a highly breathable design, the boots offer excellent moisture management to keep the feet cool and comfortable, with a northotic footbed offering great comfort and underfoot support.
To cope with highly variable terrain, the boots feature the famed North Face Heal Cradle™, firmly locking the heel in place to give maximum support on challenging ascents and descents. A Vibram™ rubber outsole offers a great balance of durability for boot shredding terrain, with stickiness for wet and boggy conditions. Self cleaning lugs ensure that the terrain doesn’t stick to the boots to keep your load light, with a full length Nylon shank for support and protection for the longest of winter hikes. Whilst the 2010 collection only features one new model for men and women, it is all you will ever need for perfect winter walking comfort.
New Men’s North Face Syncline GTX models
North Face Syncline GTX – Black and Graphite Grey
New Women’s North Face Syncline GTX models
North Face Syncline GTX – Classic Khaki and Indian Clay Red
North Face Jannu II GTX
For great protection and support over tough terrain, the North Face has released a new addition for men and women in their highly technical hiking boot range, with the latest the Jannu II designs. The one piece full grain leather upper limits weak points for maximum longevity, with a highly robust design offering maximum protection for the feet over the most demanding terrain. Featuring a 100% waterproof and windproof Gore-Tex lining, the boots are highly breathable to keep the feet perfectly dry, cool and comfortable in all conditions. A gusseted tongue completes the seal, to keep debris out of the boots and the elements from spoiling your comfort.
The boots pack in the technology with Heal Cradle™ technology to keep the foot properly positioned and to eliminate slippage in the shoes, forefoot, midfoot and rear foot underlays, a full length rigid Nylon support shank to cope with hard, uneven terrain and a Medial and lateral X-Frame™ roll-control stabilizer to protect the ankle and keep the foot well positioned and highly stable. If you want perfect protection for the feet in all weather conditions, and want support and comfort for the longest and most challenging hikes, you need look no further than the Jannu II.
New Men’s North Face Jannu II GTX model
North Face Jannu II GTX – Furrow Brown and Dune Beige
New Women’s North Face Jannu II GTX models
North Face Jannu II GTX – Furrow Brown and Fossil Ivory
Men’s North Face Flow Chute
The North Face Flow Chute is a minimalist boot, with a clean exterior design constructed from waterproof robust synthetic leather for all winter walking adventures. The boots have been constructed to make light work of the toughest and most brutal winter conditions, perfect for snow, ice, hail and torrential downpours alike. The lightweight midboot really holds its own on frozen ground with North Face Wintergrip™ technology. Ice Pick temperature sensitive outsole lugs giving extra bite in snow and ice, becoming stickier when the temperatures rise to maintain perfect traction over all surfaces in all conditions.
To cope with the cold, the boot features lightweight PrimaLoft™ Eco insulation with a Hydroseal™ membrane for a 100% waterproof seal. TPU welding offers a durable construction, with a highly cushioned insole for a comfort fit and a compression moulded EVA midsole for excellent shock absorption. The boots feature a Gaiter-compatible D-ring and heel tab making them perfectly compatible with snow shoes when the terrain gets decidedly tricky. If you are looking for the ultimate winter boot for seriously cold and tough winter hiking, this is what you need on your feet. The 2010 autumn winter collection adds a new colour scheme in the men’s range with the latest North Face Flow Chute – Black and Pewter Grey model, due to be released in the next few weeks.
Men’s North Face Chilkats
Winter trekking over snow and ice is a speciality area for North Face, producing a wide range of boots to cope with the worst of the weather and the coldest and most treacherous conditions. The North Face Chilcats is designed to keep the feet warm and comfortable down to -32º F / -35ºC, with a tread pattern and rubber compound specifically designed to offer exceptional traction in snow and ice. Fully compatible with snowshoes, there are few more protective boots available on the market.
The boot is constructed from robust split 2.0-2.2 waterproof nubuck and suede, with rustproof lace eyelets, and a wide protective rand for added durability. The boot features the best anti-bacterial technology with AgION™ treatments to prevent bacterial growth, ensuring a healthy environment for the feet at all times, preventing foot odour from taking control of your boots. The boots feature the famed North Face Winter Grip™ rubber outsole with sticky rubber for expert grip and bite on hard frozen terrain. The autumn winter 2010 collection offers men a new model with the highly stylish
North Face Chilkats – Mud Pack Brown and Sienna Orange.
Women’s North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR
Last, but by no means least, the autumn sees the release of a brand new Hedgehog model for women, with the North Face Hedgehog GTX XCR – Dark Shadow Grey and Bliss Pink added to the already impressive hiking shoe range. The feminine colours and sleek design adds even greater style to this highly popular lightweight all-terrain hiking shoe series, designed to help you pick up the pace and move quickly over all terrain. Featuring a 100% waterproof construction with a Gore-Tex lining, this highly breathable hiking trainer is constructed with a mesh sandwich upper to maximise airflow, facilitating the exit of moisture from the shoes. The Hedgehog is one of the most comfortable hiking shoes you are likely to find, and is guaranteed to keep you in comfort for all of your off-road adventures.
Whilst being given a feminine treatment, this shoe remains incredibly tough, allowing you to take all terrain in your stride. Under the foot a Vibram rubber outsole features sticky rubber for excellent cross-terrain grip, with a Northotic ergonomically contoured footbed for great underfoot comfort. The abrasion resistant bomber synthetic Nubuck uppers are highly durable and can cope with knocks and scrapes on rough ground and stay looking as good. If you want a lightweight hiking shoe, with the support and protection of a boot and a highly comfortable fit, there are few shoes which can come close to the performance of the North Face Hedgehog.
So no matter where you plan to walk and how difficult the conditions, you can be sure that your feet will be perfectly protected, warm and comfortable throughout the autumn and winter with North Face footwear. The latest models feature tweaks to the already impressive North Face designs, and the best protection for all off-road adventures.
To get up close and personal with North Face, and to see the extent of their highly protective footwear collection, be sure to visit http://www.fitnessfootwear.com/c-366-north-face.aspx
Popularity: unranked [?]