Review: Hoka One One Running Shoe

“Minimalist” or barefoot running has been one of the hottest trends in the running shoe industry over the past few years. Most major running shoe companies have already come out with lighter shoes that are closer to the ground, with a very small (or even no) angle downward from the heel to the toe and which have fewer motion control or stability features compared to the typical running shoe. Many of these new shoe designs have become quite popular within the running community. But this isn’t the only trend that happening within the industry.

In fact, some companies are moving in the opposite direction, and offering shoes that are bigger and have more features than traditional running shoes. One of the leading companies in this area is Hoka One One.

Hoka One One Running Shoe

Hoka One One has come up with a shoe technology that provides a degree of cushioning that simply doesn’t exist in any other shoe. The midsoles of the various models of Hoka shoes are roughly two to three times larger than traditional running shoes. As far as appearance goes, this means that the shoes look different than just about anything else on the market. Hokas are tall; your foot will be about two full inches off the ground. Furthermore, the outsole and tread of the Hoka shoes are much wider than a normal running shoe.

But functionally, there’s a purpose behind the distinctive looking shoes. The cushioning in the Hoka One One shoes is comprised of a special type of foam that is more compressible and can dissipate much more foot strike impact and shock than traditional shoes. This can make the Hoka shoes a great option for runners who may have biomechanical issues that cause them to experience.

In addition, the Hoka One One shoe design does not come at the expense of a person’s running form or shoe weight. The bottoms of the Hoka shoes have a unique rocker design that makes it easy to transition through the running stride. In fact, by virtue of the sole shape many runners find that they can actually decrease the amount that their knees need to bend throughout their running gait, which lessens much of the damage that would otherwise occur in traditional shoes.

Surprisingly, this increased cushioning and comfort does make the shoe feel heavy or clunky. The trail running model of Hoka One One shoes actually weigh less than many traditional trail running shoes. This has made the Hoka One One a popular brand for runners who put in extremely high mileage, or who run log a significant percentage of their miles on rough trails.

There are currently several different models available. The Bondi is designed for running on pavement or hard-packed smooth trails. The Mafate and Mafate WP are designed for running on rougher trails. The Stinson and the Rapa Nui are the most heavy duty models, designed for hiking.

Because they are different from traditional running shoes, if you decide to check out Hoka One One shoes make sure to give yourself a little bit of extra time to adjust to how they work on your feet.

   

Is Trail Running Right For You?

There are many fun and interesting places to run. Each runner has their own running goals, preferences, and style. Some need quick convenience and a jog around the neighborhood is ideal. Some prefer to run indoors on a treadmill and some love to run in nature – on trails. Spring - when it's not too hot and not too cold - is a great time to try outdoor forms of running, such as train running.

Trail Running Is...

Trail running is exactly what it sounds like, running on trails. Most often the trails are hiking trails. They can also be shared with mountain bikers and animals. There are many benefits to running on trails. The biggest benefit of course may be the scenery. All across the country there are beautiful trails. Some wind through the woods, over hills and next to rivers. Others give you a beautiful view of the ocean. Whether you enjoy fields, mountains, water scenes or the woods there are trails for you to enjoy.

(Photo credit: GORE-TEX® Products)

Another common benefit of trail running is that it is peaceful. Many trails are in isolated areas and you may not pass another runner while you’re out. This can be a downside too because it presents a potential danger. It’s recommended that you run with personal protection spray and a cell phone. Always make sure someone knows where you are going and when you’ll be back.

Trails are often much softer than running on cement, asphalt, and a treadmill base. Dirt and small gravel is easy to run on. However, if the trail is rocky then you will have to pay careful attention to your footing. You don’t want to sprain an ankle or fall while you’re running.

Trail Running is Right for You If…

Trail running is ideal for people who enjoy long runs. If you like to get out for a few hours to experience nature then running on your local trails may be an ideal escape. If you enjoy variety on your runs, trail running provides that as well. During inclement weather the trails can become dicey. If you enjoy an adventure and a challenge then trail running may be your cup of tea. During the winter months you may want to strap traction devices to your trail running shoes.

Speaking of trail running shoes, if you’re running on rough trails then you may want to swap your traditional running shoes with shoes that offer more stability and traction. If you’re a barefoot or minimalist runner there are also a few good minimal trail running shoes on the market.

If you enjoy running, consider adding one trail run to your weekly routine. It’s a fun way to spend a few hours. You’ll experience nature and get in shape at the same time - what could be better than that?

Review: FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flop: Do They Really Work?

First came the toning sneakers, now come the toning flip flops for summer! And the FitFlop brand are taking the world by storm right now. But how does the FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flop really "shape up" when you look at the evidence?

What To Look For In Toning Flip Flops

1) Style: The premise behind the FitFlop is that you will benefit more from everyday activities like walking. This doesn't mean you want to look like you're kitted out to go to the gym all day every day, though, so you want your toning flip flops to look stylish.

2) Comfort: Next, your toning flip flops have to be comfortable. If not, you're not going to wear them, and you're not going to benefit!

3) Fitness Benefits: The main point of these flip flops is that they need to be well designed to help you improve your fitness.

Features Of The FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flop

* Styles: FitFlops come in a huge number of styles including metallic leather, sequins, suede and rhinestones.
* Color: Each style can be purchased in a variety of different colors.
* Sizes: FitFlops are available in US sizes 5-11.
* Design: They are made with EVA foam to create a "destabilizing effect".
* Benefits: They can help to improve leg, calf and gluteal muscle activity and posture.

What Customers Are Saying About The FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flop

FitFlops have been some of the best selling shoes for months now. Customers aren't just buying them to improve their fitness and lose weight, they're buying them because they're extremely comfortable and stylish at the same time. Reviews are generally very positive!

Any Complaints?

Unfortunately, FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flops are only being sold in whole sizes. If you usually wear a half size then the manufacturers recommend that you choose the smaller of the two sizes. Aside from this, customers have noticed that some styles of the shoe are a little narrow and may not be suitable for those with wide feet. And, due to the height of the FitFlop, they're not suitable for all terrain walking.

fitflop (Photo credit: Leo Reynolds)

Can Toning Flip Flops Really Work?

If you're looking for a shoe to help you tone up and lose weight, this this is the big question and probably the biggest consideration for your purchase. Like other brands of toning footwear, the FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flops is made using EVA foam that creates a "destabilizing effect" as you walk. In other words, they won't work miracles, but they will rock back and forth while you're wearing them to help keep your muscles more active as you walk, helping you to tone up quicker than you would normally.

The experts are firmly divided when it comes to toning footwear, with many arguing that it's simply the extra walking you're doing that makes the difference in your fitness efforts. However, many happy customers have reported feeling extra tired and achey after using these shoes with their normal workouts. The design of the shoe can help you walk the "right way" i.e. the most effective way for making the most of those muscles!

It really is up to you whether you think it's worth giving the FitFlop Women's Toning Flip Flop a try. Many happy women swear by these shoes, but you'll only see results if you put some effort in!


Get Your FitFlops Here:

     

Review: Skechers Women's Shape-Ups Toners: Do They Live Up To The Hype?

Toning sneakers have been around for several years now, but it's only in the last year or two that their popularity has really soared. Although there are many brands on the market, Skechers Women's Shape-Ups toners are still the most popular and are selling in huge numbers everywhere. But are they worth spending your hard-earned cash on?

The Basic Features of Skechers Women's Shape-Ups Toners

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

These are specially designed sneakers that promise to help you tone up faster, burn more calories, and improve your posture. Some of the main features include:

* Antibacterial sock liner to increase breathability and avoid moisture build up,
* A "kinetic wedge" in the sole that rocks back and forth to force your muscles to work harder as you walk,
* Rubber tread to maximize traction.
* Available in traditional sneaker style with lace up front, and in a wide range of colors.
* Designed for extreme comfort while walking, with lower impact on the joints.

Skechers Women's Shape Ups XF - Accelerators Lace-Up Fashion Sneaker

How Do Skechers Women's Shape-Ups Toners Work?

First things first, how do these sneakers actually work to help you tone up more quickly? It's understandable to be skeptical when it comes to anything that claims to help you lose weight faster!

Skechers claim that you can burn more calories thanks to the curved design of the shoe, and that the instability created by the "kinetic wedge" will make your muscles work harder in order to stay balanced. The end result? More toned calves, thighs and buttock muscles.

Independent studies have confirmed that the design of the shoe may have an effect on your workouts, and will help to increase muscle activity as long as you use them. Other studies have concluded that the shoes simply motivated people to work out more than usual - so the evidence is still inconclusive.

Where the shoes have usually seen greatest results is in improvement of posture which can help to make your workouts more effective on its own.

What Customers Are Saying About These Toning Sneakers

The sales numbers speak volumes: Skechers have a number of very happy customers who are coming back to buy even more pairs of these sneakers. Although many buy them for the toning benefits, and claim that they have noticed results when wearing them. One reviewer even tested the shoes while doing housework and noticed that she was aching when she finished!

However, many customers buy the shoes simply for their comfort and reduced impact on the joints. They've found that it helps to make exercise and day to day walking more comfortable for them.

Skechers Women's S2 Lite Shape Ups Lace-Up Fashion Sneaker

Are There Any Complaints?

The main complaint of the first series of Skechers Shape-Ups was that they looked noticeably different to standard sneakers. The good news is that there is now a large range of sneakers that look just like any other kind of sneaker, so you won't automatically stand out while you wear these shoes for your day to day walking. Most customers state that the shoe feels slightly odd and unnatural to wear at first, due to the rocking motion, but that you quickly get used to them.

Aside from this, the main complaint of the new style is that they run slightly small - you may need to order a size larger than you normally wear.

Conclusion

Thanks to the new styles available, Skechers Women's Shape-Ups Toners are now more accessible to a wider range of women who want something that looks like a traditional sneaker. Although they do cost more than many sneakers, they're worth it if you're looking for something comfortable that will improve your posture and may help you to tone up faster than normal.


   

Review: Vibram Five Fingers Shoe For Minimalist Running

Running shoe technology never stops developing and advancing. But it’s wrong to assume that all of these developments are moving towards more advanced cushioning and support and motion control features. In fact, one of the most popular trends in running shoes over the past few years has been that of “minimalism.”

The concept of minimalism states that since humans have been walking and running for thousands of years with very basic shoes or sandals (or even barefoot), it’s preferable to keep any footwear as minimal as possible and simply let the human body do its job.

Vibram FiveFingers Sprint shoes, inner side. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One of the first shoe companies to take advantage of this trend was Vibram. Vibram introduced its first “Five Fingers” shoe in 2005.  The best description of a Vibram Five Fingers shoe is that it resembles a “glove” that hugs and conforms to the shape of the foot. And just like a glove, these shoes contain individual compartments for each toe. But unlike a glove, the Five Fingers shoe is not simply comprised of a few pieces of fabric stitched together. Rather, these Five Fingers shoes have a shaped and contoured durable rubber outsole, and a pliant upper to make sure that the shoe fits comfortably and securely.

Vibram currently offers over a dozen different models for men and women, and even several different models for children. The differences in the various Five Finger shoes relate primarily to how they will be used. Vibram offers models that are geared towards indoors activities such as dancing and yoga, as well as outdoor activities that take place on sidewalks, paved bike paths, well groomed trails, and rougher trails. Vibram even offers models designed for walking, hiking and running outdoors in cooler temperatures (and even snow).

Each model of the Five Fingers shoe allows the foot to move naturally. The shoes are ideal for individuals who want to be able to run with a barefoot style and form (which generally means landing more in the middle or front of the foot rather than striking the ground with the heel), but who don’t want to be on a constant lookout for glass or other debris that might be on their normal walking paths. The Five Fingers shoe fills the need for runners, walkers and other active individuals who want to strengthen their feet and allow their bodies to experience motion without undue restriction in their feet.

Vibram Five Fingers Shoeware (Photo credit: mauritsonline)

New users of Five Fingers shoes will notice that while they generally feel quite comfortable once their feet are in the shoes, the process of putting them on can be a bit challenging the first few times. Because the shoe has different compartments for each toe, it can take a bit of practice. It’s also important to try on the model of whatever Five Fingers shoe you’re considering, because the sizing might be different from your current traditional style shoes.

While it’s not necessarily a downside or a negative, it is worth noting that a person who doesn’t have particularly strong foot muscles (in other words, just about anyone who spends most of their waking hours in traditional shoes) will have a bit of an adjustment period while their body gets used to the new footwear. Traditional shoes generally restrict the movement of the feet, so the muscles in the foot will require some time to strengthen themselves. Just take it slowly (see tips in our previous post) and you’ll likely find the Five Fingers shoe to be a great new addition to your active lifestyle.

Vibram Five Fingers Shoe Examples:
   

5 Steps to Getting Started With Barefoot Running

Ready to try out the latest running trend? If you have struggled with running pain or are just curious about the hype then barefoot running may be something to try. Before you take off your shoes and head out the door it’s important to know the facts. It’s important to get started correctly or you may get hurt.

Healthy feet of an 11-year-old girl who regularly goes barefoot. Note the presence of ideal arches. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Step #1: Start Walking Barefoot First

The first step is to start acclimating your feet to being without shoes. Start walking barefoot whenever you can. Walk barefoot around the house, in the park or your yard. You may also want to consider buying a pair of minimal walking shoes. These shoes have a large toe box which gives your toes room to spread out. They also don’t provide any cushioning for your feet. And they’ll have little if any height difference between your heel and your toe. They’re flat.

Step #2: Walk Outside Barefoot for 10 Minutes a Day

The next step is to begin to toughen your feet and strengthen them. Yes, you have muscles in your feet. Now you may be tempted to run at this point. Don’t do it. Spend a week walking outside each day for ten minutes. Walk on the grass. Walk on the sidewalk. Feel the ground beneath your feet and pay attention to how you may walk differently – lighter.

Step #3: Increase Your Walking Time

Start increasing your walking time to fifteen minutes each day and try to transition from the grass or sand to the concrete or asphalt. At this point you may start running for no more than five minutes on grass. Stay off the pavement.

Step #4: Start Running

Assuming your feet are doing okay, minimal aches and pains, you can begin to transition to running on pavement with your bare feet. Again, you may want to keep it to less than five minutes. You can also alternate between running and walking.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila shoes, top view. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Step #5: Building Your Endurance

Gradually increase the amount of time you can run with bare feet. You’ll probably want to run no more than three or four days a week. Your feet will need a rest.

What About Minimal Shoes?

This step by step schedule is designed for people running barefoot or with minimal shoes. If you’re wearing something like the Five Fingered shoes from Vibram (see our review of these in Saturday's post) then you will still want to take it slowly. You may, however, be able to hit the pavement sooner but take care. If you feel any significant aches or pains, take it down a notch. You’ve been wearing shoes for decades; it takes time for your feet to adjust to feeling and responding with the ground in this new form.