About Us Just because you LOVE shoes, doesn't mean you can't talk about all sorts of other things too!
This blog is here to discuss all aspects of health & wellness footwear... from weight loss shoes to shoes to help cure bunions! Aswell as ramblings about the latest developments in health, fitness and weight loss!
Check in regularly to keep up to date with what's happening in the wonderful world of health and wellness and to share tips, tricks and stories :-)
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That is the question most women ask when it comes to wearing high heels, and celebrity favourite shoe designer Christian Louboutin agrees. In a recent interview with Grazia magazine, he admitted that he believes ‘High heels are pleasure with pain. If you can’t walk in them, don’t wear them.’, and that anybody who struggles to walk in the six-inch (or in some cases bigger!) heels should just ditch them altogether!
 The iconic red soles can be held responsible for a plethora of foot ailments. High heels can cause hammer toes, hallux valgus and Achilles tendon damage, but this still doesn’t put certain celebrities off. Coleen Rooney, the queen of Aintree races a couple of weeks ago, was seen sporting 3 different pairs of Louboutin shoes, all sky high! On the Sunday however, she tweeted herself in a pair of trainers, much more sensible and probably a lot comfier! Victoria Beckham has also reportedly experienced severe bunions and a slipped disc by wearing his creations. In one of our earlier posts, we showed pictures of glamour model Georgia Salpa who had suffered painful cuts and bruises on the top of her foot from her Louboutin Asteroids.
I’m sure we’ve all had it; the ‘high heel hangover’. The morning after a night out, you wake up and your feet are still sore! I do love a pair of stilettos, but now I always make sure I care for my feet properly after wearing them to avoid doing any long term damage. Here are some tips you can follow to make sure your feet stay in good condition.
 After wearing heels, the Achilles tendon and calf muscles become tighter so it is important to do stretches. This helps to relax the muscles and stop them becoming shorter which is also another side effect of wearing stilettos. Yoga is a great way to stay stretched and supple. You don’t have to go to a class; there are some postures that are basic enough to do at home. The downward-facing dog and the Virasana-Hero pose are the best ones to target the feet. Drawing an imaginary alphabet with your feet also keeps the blood flowing to reduce any swelling.
 One of the simpler methods is to simply pamper your feet! Ensure toenails are cut properly (straight across rather than rounded) as this decreases the chance of ingrown toenails. Pedicures are the best way to ensure your feet are kept healthy, as the feet are cleaned professionally, and any dry skin is removed safely. It is also important to keep feet moisturised as rough skin develops on pressure points which is incredibly painful! A great tip I was given was to apply foot cream at night and sleep in cotton socks as this locks the moisture in, it really does work! I also wear the Beech Comfys sandals as slippers around the house; not only are they made from a lovely, soft fleece material, they have toe separators which realign the toes; perfect for when you’ve been squeezed into heels!
A rest from heels is probably the best way to let your feet recover. This is known as a ‘high heel holiday’. Well cushioned, supportive flat shoes are the best as they give the foot the full protection it needs. Women who wear high heels and then switch to trainers or flats often feel the effects of Achilles Tendonitis. This is because the muscles in the lower leg have shortened because heels don’t require them to stretch – so as soon as the foot is placed in a flat surface, the muscle is required to stretch out of the size it has become accustomed to. This causes inflammation and induces Achilles problems.
As the saying goes, less is more, so the less you wear heels the more your feet will thank you!
As we move closer into the summer, hay fever sufferers will be getting their medicines ready for the increase in pollen. I’m the first one to reach for the paracetamol at the early sign of a headache, but I’ve never considered alternative remedies. Alternative medicines such as acupuncture and reflexology have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Reflexology is similar to a massage, but involves applying much more pressure to specific points on the foot, hand or ear. The belief is that the different points reflect certain parts of the anatomy, and applying pressure to these points can effectively have a physical change on the body. Now, shoes are becoming the go-to for a quick reflexology session.
 In 2006, Kyoto University School of Medicine conducted a clinical study which found that reflexology sandals can ease or prevent fatigue and can actually make you happier! Results showed that after only 30 minutes participants who wore the sandals had:
• Increased energy level
• A lower pulse rate and improved circulation
• Reduced swelling in feet and legs
• Reduced foot pain
• A warmer & happier mood
One of our brands, Kenkoh, is a Japanese health and wellness brand which has built its brand over the last 40 years by improving the health of people through the principles of reflexology.
Kenkoh sandals work in a similar way to having reflexology treatment. The insole holds 1000 natural rubber nodules that are unique to Kenkoh. These nodules stimulate reflex points and nerves in the feet that relate to organs, glands and muscles around the body. As the foot moves, the nodules which vary in height and width press against these points in the soles of the feet promoting blood flow around the body, improving circulation and supporting heart function. Kenkoh Sandals have shock absorbing properties and an orthotic arch to help the support the foot for a more comfortable movement. These reflexology shoes encourage a natural balance of the body whilst also massaging and relaxing your foot to relieve stress and tension as you walk.
Reflexology sandals can be a bit hard for those who haven’t worn them before, as they do take some getting used to. They feel slightly strange at first but once you’re used it, it is heaven! Reflexologists recommend that first time users wear socks with the sandals until they are able to get used to how they feel. At first, until you grow accustomed to them, we recommend you wear them for short periods of time (around ten minutes each day). Customers have told us that once they have broken them in they can wear them all day!
As the date for the London Marathon draws nearer, training is at its peak, personal bests are being smashed and preparations on what to wear for the mammoth 26 mile race are becoming obsessive! And, that’s just the fancy dress costumes which are being put together!!
The event always brings a few surprises in the outfit department but one thing for certain is the sea of variety when the whistle blows to start the participants off. From the most extreme fancy dress outfits, to those dressing for a fashion show, and the obvious sports enthusiasts.
  
People from all walks of life will be taking part on Sunday 22nd April from celebrities to the young and old but one thing everyone has in common – you all need a good pair of socks and shoes!
Have you got your gear sorted yet? Wondering which are the best socks for running? It can be a mindfield but a supportive pair of shoes and socks will not only increase endurance, they’ll be comfortable and help you along on your journey. It’s important that you don’t change your running style though too close to the start of a race as your body needs a transition period so you could end up doing more damage.
 
We love Injinji toe socks for the ultimate sports performance sock. They’ll come in all shapes and sizes but this liner style in a funky green colour is extremely lightweight and ultra thin. Made from a superior moisture management fabric, you’ll feet will keep dry and comfortable as you run along and are suitable to wear in any shoe. They also benefit from an anti-slip heel and due to the toe pockets the shoes aid posture, grip and balance -all good for a distance runner!
Good luck to everyone taking part!
Do you love fashion but struggle to find something comfortable as well as stylish? The second installment of our How To..series shows you the four hottest trends for this season and how easily accesible they are! The best thing? We have up to 70% off all stock this weekend! There are plenty of brands out there that keep your health in mind when designing trendy shoes! The start of British Summer Time and the lovely weather we had last week got the girls at Love Those Shoes HQ very excited, and some have already started planning their summer holidays and what trends they’ll be trying this season. Here is our round up of the styles we think are going to be big and how you can get the designer look for less.
Sports Luxe
With the Olympics and Euro 2012, this seasons fashion has taken inspiration from what should normally only be seen at the gym! ‘Sports Luxe’ combines style and comfort. The Vital range of footwear is not to be missed. Thanks to the ‘Vitalnopps’ your feet are massaged when you walk as the gentle massaging nubs work their magic and they help to increase circulation. They also have a clever sole complete with a bending zone for increased flexibility.
Global Glamour
The world is your oyster! Take inspiration from Indian flea markets and Aftrican tribal prints. Tan sandals are popular year after year, so these Scholl ones are perfect. This catwalk inspired style has a tan suede upper with metallic circle detailing. There is an adjustable metal buckle at the side which allows a secure fit and a soft suede foot bed with a deep set heel cup for added stability and support. Add wooden accessories and a fringed bag and you’ve got the look nailed!
Metallic Marvel
Lots of designers took a futuristic approach at this seasons fashion shows. Shiny fabrics and jewel colours are a perfect choice this season if you like to make a statement. These Vital Floral Sandals are almost identical to those seen on the Christopher Kane models at London Fashion Week. The Vital Black Floral Sandal features the special VITAL assembly technology for complete freedom in every step and a safer and more controlled walking experience! This design also comes in a wedge style, where the front of the sole is turned up which encourages a rocking movement and promotes a more fluid walking action.
Urban Traveller
Urban Traveller is a more casual, laidback trend. These Merrell sandals have similar detailing to those at Gucci and can be dressed up or down, perfect with jeans or a summer dress. The Merrell air cushion in the heel ensures comfort from the inside out while the anti-bacterial treated lining keeps the feet fresh. Keep your colour palette neutral with khaki and brown tones and bring in Navajo patterns to complete the look.
Kate Middleton is a Royal fashionista. When she wears something (her favourite high street brands are Reiss and Zara) it sells out within hours, this is now being called the ‘Kate Effect’.
Imagine what it must have been like for De Montford University student Becka Hunt when she was chosen personally by the Duchess to design a shoe for her to wear for the Jubilee celebrations later in the summer. The University ran the competition as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee visit to Leicester; six students presented their designs and Kate chose Becka’s blue suede shoe-boot design as her favourite.
Becka said: ‘I’m absolutely overwhelmed. The colour of the shoes was inspired by Kate’s engagement ring.’ She also looked into 19th century fashions and based the design around her interpretation of the Duchess’s style. The colour of the shoe is sapphire blue with an ornate white floral pattern incorporating pearl detail.
Will you be flying the flag for England this summer? There are so many great events coming up which mean you can show your patriotic side! We think these Jinga trainers are perfect, available for men and women.
‘I would have plastic surgery to sort out my nose and my ugly,unshapely feet’
Sue Johnston, actress 68, (courtesy of the Daily Mail Online)
After recently reading this quote in the Daily Mail, it got us thinking about foot surgery. The importance of looking after feet and the stress it can cause when foot surgery becomes the only option. Our feet are our mode of transport, they get us from A to B, and what’s more our feet need us as much as we need them!
Foot surgery and the after recovery can be an extremely lengthy, painful and uncomfortable time. Reasons for surgery are often cosmetic but many procedures are a result of serious conditions caused by accidents or long-term neglect.
Celebrities are no stranger to foot surgery either. The Foot Tales of the Rich and Famous are widely publicised in the media from Kelly Osbourne’s dancing damage to Victoria Beckham’s bunions!
And, remember Sandie Shaw? The ‘Puppet On A String’ singer renowned for performing barefoot in the 60s? She had cosmetic foot surgery in 2010. She is said to have never been happy with her ‘ugly feet’ despite sharing them with the world so she took the painful surgery plunge. The procedures included shortening and straightening her toes and removing bunions. The results she described as ‘divine.’
 
Should we always resort to surgery for cosmetic reasons? While it is harder to stop the signs of aging on our face and bodies, our feet can be trained and pain can be eased all with the help of footwear.
And, while foot surgery might be seen as an easy option and quick fix, the reality tells a different story!
Bunions: Surgery Vs Shoes
If someone told you it was fashionable to cycle, what would your immediate thoughts be? Whenever the word ‘cycle’ or ‘bike’ is mentioned, I think about unforgiving lycra pants and hair flattening helmets, and they are two things any fashionista would stay clear of!
But, cycling is undergoing a transformation. Glam celebs Denise van Outen and Lydia Bright (of The Only Way Is Essex) have just completed the Rajasthan Tiger Challenge, which involves cycling more than 300 miles across India in aid of Great Ormond Street. The usually perfectly groomed celebrities pedalled their way through blistering heat, starting in Delhi through to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal, then into Ranthambore National Park famous for its tigers, and finally through Jaipur, nicknamed the ‘pink city’ because of its pink and red sandstone buildings.
“The actual route that we’re doing isn’t a main tourist route,” said Lydia. “It’s a specific one that has been tailored to us to make it harder so that people will realise that we’re really fighting for our sponsorship money.”
I live approximately 20 minutes drive away from the office, and have often wondered how long it would take me to cycle, but the thought of wearing sports gear on my daily commute frightens me slightly. Journalist and bike enthusiast Katie Dailey has wrote a new book, Heels on Wheels, in which she offers great advice on how to dress for a fashionable but safe ride. Skirts are a big no, as pencil styles leave no room for movement and floaty maxi skirts are likely to get caught in the chain or the spokes. We don’t a ripped skirt now do we?! The best thing to wear is a pair of cropped trousers, a summer staple seen on a lot of the catwalks at fashion week (grab yourself a pair in a pastel colour to be uber trendy). They are a practical but stylish alternative to those Lycra leggings we all detest so much! According to Katie, she thinks the best shoe to cycle in is an unlaced plimsoll, so you don’t have to worry about laces coming undone and getting tangled up.
So for the perfect cycling shoes, go for a moulded footbed. Find ones which are breathable and offer non slip soles.
Crocs shoes for women have an orthotic moulded foot bed, a breathable Croslite upper and non slip soles. Womens Crocs shoes offer anatomic arch support and stimulation nodules to increase blood circulation in the feet. I, admittedly, am a slave to fashion, and this is my favourite style.
Would you prefer to pedal in heels? If so, wear wedges for a more stable tread.
Who knew cycling could be so chic? If it’s good enough for Queen of British fashion Vivienne Westwood then it’s good enough for us!
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The iconic red soles can be held responsible for a plethora of foot ailments. High heels can cause hammer toes, hallux valgus and Achilles tendon damage, but this still doesn’t put certain celebrities off. Coleen Rooney, the queen of Aintree races a couple of weeks ago, was seen sporting 3 different pairs of Louboutin shoes, all sky high! On the Sunday however, she tweeted herself in a pair of trainers, much more sensible and probably a lot comfier! Victoria Beckham has also reportedly experienced severe bunions and a slipped disc by wearing his creations. In one of our earlier posts, we showed pictures of glamour model Georgia Salpa who had suffered painful cuts and bruises on the top of her foot from her Louboutin Asteroids.
One of the simpler methods is to simply pamper your feet! Ensure toenails are cut properly (straight across rather than rounded) as this decreases the chance of ingrown toenails. Pedicures are the best way to ensure your feet are kept healthy, as the feet are cleaned professionally, and any dry skin is removed safely. It is also important to keep feet moisturised as rough skin develops on pressure points which is incredibly painful! A great tip I was given was to apply foot cream at night and sleep in cotton socks as this locks the moisture in, it really does work! I also wear the Beech Comfys sandals as slippers around the house; not only are they made from a lovely, soft fleece material, they have toe separators which realign the toes; perfect for when you’ve been squeezed into heels!
1. The weather is starting to get warmer and the last thing you need is extra perspiration when you are running! Not only will you lose energy and become dehydrated quicker, you’ll feel uncomfortable and it can even lead to more serious foot conditions to form. Choose footwear that helps to regulate the temperature of your feet. Have a look for 
All women love a quick and easy way to lose a little bit of weight and stop those wobbly bits wobbling. We search the net day after day for the latest diet fad or celebrity fitness regime that promises to shift those pounds in less time than the last. Even footwear gets its fair share of scrutiny. Toning shoes and trainers seem to be the ‘in’ thing at the moment and there are many 
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