Tuesday, February 22, 2005

5 Super Shoe-Buying Tips!

1. You can tell if these boots (or any other shoes) are made for walking… If you can’t wear a pair of shoes comfortably for more than an hour, don’t bother. Your face will show your pain.

2. Never buy a shoe that wrinkles when you flex your foot. Also, buy late in the day, when your feet are the largest.

3. When it comes to sandals, keep it simple. You’ll get more use out of them. Be sure straps are well made, not too tight or too delicate. Avoid sandals that cut any area of the foot.

4. Flats look best with long skirts and slim pants.

5. When you’re bargain shoe shopping, buy brown. Inexpensive shoes look richer in natural browns than in black.

Article: eDiets.com

Sunday, February 20, 2005

Shoe cell phone.

Saturday, February 19, 2005

Michael Jordan is really big!



Shoe designer Tinker Hatfield looks over the Jordan XX that he helped design during an interview about the new basketball shoe.

Shoes Don't Make Us Look Fat

If you've ever wondered why women love shoes, here's your answer - shoes dont make us look fat.

But it's really not so simple.

I am a shoe fanatic; I carry a Famous Footwear rewards card wherever I go, and I probably own thirty pairs of shoes. Most of them are impractical, of course, and yet I still search for more. Its one of my few indulgences. Naturally, I found myself amongst many women shopping shoe sales post-Christmas. I tried on several pairs, just like my fellow ladies, and I tried to find meaning in my obsession with shoes. I wasn't alone. I conversed with a 50-year-old woman (who was surprisingly pulling off pink knee-high stiletto boots) about which we thought were the ugliest shoes on the sales rack. I noticed a group of girls trying on old lady shoes for kicks. I tried on purple stilettos, lime green sneakers, leopard-print boots. Realistically speaking, I wouldnt buy most of the outrageous shoes I try on, but I have always thought of trying on shoes as some type of therapy. It makes me happy, and I have often been known to go out with my girlfriends, or even alone...just to try on shoes.

Author: Stephenie Samborowski. Continued...

Fashion: Shoe Clue for Spring/ Summer

Spring/ summer 2005 is expected to sparkle extremes when it comes to shoes - from flats to towering wedges.

Flat peep toe sandals are the perfect match to knitted "I made it myself" styled tops. Opt for genuine leather and natural, skin shades. Earthly coloured strapped Gladiator sandals and pretty-bejewelled flats also make an ultrafashionable statement.

Those make a good match to denim or romantic white ensembles, but you feel more extravagant a black ruffle petticoat could do as well.

For the night, however, you might need something more sophisticated than flats - platforms and stack heels make a sweeping comeback this season.

Friday, February 18, 2005

NBA All-Star Game, shoe exhibition.

Because consumers have come to expect the All-Star Game to give them their first glimpses of new shoes, it's become a launch pad for new looks. "It's an event where a lot of eyes are on the product," Nike spokesman Rodney Knox says.

Nike's fashion statements in the All-Star Game will include LeBron James, who usually wears black shoes, modeling gray and blue versions of his signature Zoom LeBron II shoes, which hit retail stores last weekend.

Kobe Bryant will wear gray, red and blue Nike 2K5 sneakers, a shoe that also will come out in three more color schemes in March.

Nike also will shod Vince Carter in red, white and blue versions of his signature VC IV shoe. Jermaine O'Neal's All-Star version of the Shox Bomber will have a similar color scheme. Versions of the Shox Bomber without the All-Star color scheme go on sale in March; Carter's All-Star kicks are available this weekend.

And what would a sneaker story be without a pair of Air Jordans? Seattle SuperSonics guard Ray Allen will unveil a special pair of AJXX's, marking the 20th anniversary since the shoe first hit the market.

"It's always been more than just a shoe to me," Jordan says. "I'm honored that, even after 20 years, my loyal fans and friends have continued to support me and the legacy of Air Jordan."

The special edition Allen will wear won't be available in stores; however, a version of the shoe will be in stores All-Star weekend. The motorcycle-inspired design of the AJXX (Jordan owns a motorcycle team, Team23 Racing) includes a laser-etched strap that features more than 200 icons that were done to create a tapestry of stories connected to Jordan's career.

Players modeling new shoes for Adidas include Tracy McGrady, wearing his laceless signature shoe, and Antawn Jamison, in an AQ sneaker that will launch in March. The company is counting on long consumer memories: Tim Duncan will be wearing a D-Cool shoe that won't be available until July.

But nobody is counting on longer memories than Reebok. Using the feet of Allen Iverson and Yao Ming, it will resurrect its Pump sneaker, which sold from 1989 to 1992 and was Reebok's best-selling sneaker ever — more than 20 million pairs.

Full article at: USATODAY.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Detail shot.



A detail shot of the footwear worn by Star Jones as she arrives at the 47th annual Grammy Awards at the Staples Center in Los Angeles February 13, 2005.
REUTERS/Robert Galbraith

Malta : Fake branded footwear and clothes seized

On Monday, three containers transporting fake footwear and garments of famous brands such as Hugo Boss, Gucci, Nike, Giorgio Armani, Adidas and Timberland were seized by the Customs Enforcement Unit based in Marsa.

Each 20-foot-container from China was destined for North Africa. Following more investigations, discrepancies in declarations on official documents of these three containers, were discovered. The three containers are being emptied on Tuesday.

The authorities contacted the legal right holders of the brands concerned and following their efforts, the suspicions of the Customs officials was confirmed that the merchandise was counterfeit.

So far, with the above seizure the total number of seizures in two months has reached 20 full load containers.

Article:
fibre2fashion.com

Success fits shoe shipper



"In 2000, sales at Zappos.com totaled $1.6 million. Last year they skyrocketed to $184 million."

The story goes something like this: A man walks through a San Francisco shopping mall but can't find the perfect pair of shoes. He goes online but still can't find his style.

The man, just 26 years old, decides to start his own Internet shoe store, where he could find the right brand, style and size. He recruits a footwear expert and an Internet guru to help launch his company and names it Zappos.com.

Read the full article at: courier-journal.com

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Kenneth Cole Collecting Shoes & Clothes

Civic-minded designer Kenneth Cole has already collected more than one million pairs of shoes for HELP USA, but more still needs to be done. The designer has launched his 13th annual shoe and clothing drive to benefit the country's largest provider of housing and services for the homeless.

The drive has been on since the first of February but ends on February 15th. There is still time to contribute though. Customers who donate gently worn clothing or shoes to Kenneth Cole New York retail locations will receive 20 percent off their next purchase. A nice incentive indeed!

Article: Elites TV

Man murdered for his shoes.

A GOLD Coast man may have been murdered for his expensive-looking shoes, police said today.

Paul Markham, 23, died in the Royal Brisbane Hospital yesterday after being bashed at a bus stop outside the Embassy Hotel in central Brisbane early on Sunday.

Detective Inspector Bob Hytch, of the Brisbane Crime Investigation Bureau, today said the man's Diesel brand shoes and other possessions were taken by the two men who bashed him and left him for dead.

The pair was spotted later on several inner-city video surveillance cameras.

”They are casually strolling down Albert Street and one of them has the pair of white sand shoes which we believe belonged to the deceased," Det Insp Hytch said.


Mr Markham was believed to have borrowed the shoes from a friend who had bought them overseas.

The shoes were not available in Australia and were likely to be an Asian copy of the genuine designer brand, Insp Hytch said.

Article: Heruld Sun

Rocky Shoes Gets $21M Army Boot Order

Rocky Shoes & Boots Inc. reported Monday that it received a $21 million order from the Army for an unspecified quantity of infantry combat boots.

Shipment of the boots, which will be manufactured at the company's Moca, Puerto Rico-based factory, is expected to begin in the second quarter and continue until December.

Analysts surveyed by Thomson First Call estimate Rocky's 2005 revenue at $282.3 million.

The company said it plans to update 2005 earnings guidance when it reports fourth-quarter and 2004 results Wednesday.

Article: Associated Press

Monday, February 14, 2005

SIXX WINS BATTLE OVER SHOE ADS

MOTLEY CRUE rocker NIKKI SIXX has won a $600,000 (GBP315,800) settlement in a legal battle over the unlawful use of his image in an ad for VANS shoes.

The bassist flew into a rage when he saw a photograph of himself used in advertising for the skateboard shoe and clothing giants - because he hadn't given the firm rights to use him as an endorser.

Sixx marched into court with his wife, former BAYWATCH babe DONNA D'ERRICO, on Wednesday (09FEB05) in a bid to seek justice - and won.

He tells American news show CELEBRITY JUSTICE, "Somebody has to stand up and I was willing to spend my own money and my own time... to stand up for myself and other people.

"Mostly you find that people just let it go but, with me and the guys in Motley Crue, we've never been those kind of people. We believe in standing up for our rights and hopefully we're standing up for other people's rights too."

The judgement could not have come at a better time for Sixx, who heads out on a world tour with Motley Crue today (14FEB05).

Article: Contactmusic.com

Sunday, February 13, 2005

Running shoe 'will think like the human brain'

It has been described as "Jesse Owens meets the Jetsons": a shoe that thinks, reacts and remembers like the human brain.

After three years of testing and development under a shroud of secrecy, sportswear giant Adidas will next month unveil the trainer that, it hopes, will revolutionise the world of running.

Known simply as the Adidas 1, the groundbreaking sneaker will be marketed as "the world's first intelligent shoe". The trainer uses an inbuilt microprocessor stronger than the first Apple Mac to adapt to conditions during a run - responding to the speed and power exerted by its wearer, as well as the terrain underfoot. A small motor-driven cable system changes the shape and cushioning level of the trainer accordingly.

The trainer has already got pulses racing on both sides of the Atlantic, with a number of sports stores in New York reported to have sold out of the product more than a fortnight before shipments have even arrived.

The shoe, which will retail at £175, will hit the high street in good time for the London marathon in April.

independent.co.uk

Cowboy boots :)

An elderly couple, Sam and Bessie, are vacationing in the West. Sam always wanted a pair of authentic cowboy boots. Seeing some on sale one day, he buys them, wears them home, walking proudly.

He walks into their room and says to his wife. "Notice anything different about me?" Bessie looks him over, "Nope". Sam says excitedly, "Come on Bessie, take a good look. Notice anything different about me?" Bessie looks again, "Nope."

Frustrated Sam storms off into the bathroom, undresses, and walks back into the room completely naked except for his boots. Again he asks, a little louder this time, "Notice anything DIFFERENT NOW?" Bessie looks up and says, "Sam, what's different? It's hanging down today, it was hanging down yesterday, it'll be hanging down again tomorrow."
Furious, Sam yells, "AND DO YOU KNOW WHY IT IS HANGING DOWN, BESSIE? IT'S HANGING DOWN BECAUSE IT'S LOOKING AT MY NEW BOOTS!!!!"

Timberland Q4 Profit Up 14% On Strong Footwear Sales

Apparel manufacturer Timberland Co has reported strong fourth-quarter results following a hike in international footwear sales.

Fourth-quarter profit increased 13.9 per cent to $45 million from $39.5m in the same quarter last year.

Sales rose 9 per cent to $454.7m from $415.4m, boosted by a 10 per cent rise in footwear sales.

Full-year net income increased to $152.7m from $117.9m last year, while revenue rose 12 per cent to $1.5 billion from $1.34bn.

Timberland's president and chief executive officer, Jeffrey Swartz, said the company was aiming for low to mid single-digit revenue growth for the 2005 trading year.

Article: Just-Style.com

WEITZMAN WITHDRAWS MILLION DOLLAR OSCARS SHOES



Designer STUART WEITZMAN has withdrawn his annual million dollar OSCARS shoes because he feels it would be inappropriate for such an elaborate show of extravagance to hit the red carpet while so many people are around the world are suffering.

The top footwear guru usually creates a special pair of shoes for a lucky unknown to wear to the ACADEMY AWARDS.

But the tsunami tragedy in Asia and refugee problems in Africa have made Weitzman rethink his Oscar night idea this year (05).

Company spokesman JANE WEITZMAN says, "Two years ago (03) we pulled the ruby shoes we were planning to show off at the Oscars out of respect for those fighting in Iraq.

"And we feel very strongly that, the way the world is now, there's no place for something like this, while there is so much suffering."

Weitzman also laughs off claims that HALLE BERRY was to wear the million dollar shoes to the Oscars on 27 February (05).

She adds, "They're CINDERELLA shoes. They're not for actresses as big as Halle Berry."

Meanwhile, Weitzman's shoes will be on display for Oscar nominees and guests at the Regent Beverly Wilshire hotel in Los Angeles from 21 February (05). Among his regular clients are Oscar nominee KATE WINSLET.

Article: contactmusic.com

Raising Arizona: from therapy shoe rack to coolest catwalk

Despite their unflattering, orthopaedic moulded cork soles, Birkenstock sandals have a unique style status in the fashion world.

Everyone from fashion editors to worthy muesli munchers (they come in vegan-friendly materials too) has, at some point, owned a pair.

The summer of 2003 saw an outbreak of Birkenstock hysteria, with shoppers queueing round the block to buy a pair. Having no catwalk cue, no one was completely sure how the trend started, but, like Ugg boots after them, the epidemic was unstoppable.

The original unisex sandal, known as the Arizona, has two straps. Of the 20 styles now available, the one strap Madrid is the bestseller for women, and comes in 25 different colours.

It has spawned a thousand copies, none of which is, reputedly, half as comfortable as the quasi-medical German original.

Birkenstocks are still "cool", but the hysteria of a couple of summers ago has finished; this year, it seems, it's all about wearing espadrille wedge sandals or bejewelled flats.

Save 18% on Birkenstock Arizona today!

Article: Guardian

Teen, shoe stores coming to Genesee Valley

With an eye on the upcoming prom season, a Deb shop is getting ready to open in April in Genesee Valley shopping center.

Besides prom dresses, the 7,500-square-foot store also will sell teen sportswear, jewelry and coats. It will be located in the Mervyn's wing, said Lili Donaldson, marketing manager for the mall. The store sells regular and plus sizes.

Another incoming store is Famous Footwear, opening Feb. 28 in a 6,270-square-foot space in the Sears wing.

The shoe store is planning a special promotion March 13, when 10 customers will win a chance to go on a two-minute shopping spree, allowing them to grab as many shoes as they can in the allotted time.

Article: http://www.mlive.com/business/fljournal/index.ssf?/base/business-2/110805250984320.xml

Free Birkenstock catalog

Free Birkenstock Express catalog of sandals, shoes, boots and clogs. Request latest Birkenstock catalog. It's free!

P.S. Send me Thanks when You'll receive it :)

Sale of the Day! Birkenstock Malindi

It's a sale! You can save 283(!) USD on Birkenstock Malindi sandals right now.

Old price: $353.00
Now: $69.90! (81% off!)

From the Birkenstock Heidi Klum Collection. Fashion forward sandals that will get you noticed. Available in a wrapping ankle-strap leopard and zebra look, and ready to take your feet out on the prowl. Leather footbed liner. EVA sole is flexible, durable, lightweight and shock resistant.

Available sizes: 36 (US 5-5.5) Women's; 40 (US 9-9.5) Women's; Width: Narrow; Color: Leopard print, Zebra print

New theme for Reebok

In its largest marketing effort in a decade, Reebok (RBK) will mobilize a diverse lineup of stars — from sports to hip-hop — to promote the No. 2 sneaker marketer as the brand for young consumers.

The athletic-wear giant Thursday will unveil an estimated $50 million global ad campaign starring such personalities as U.S. tennis ace Andy Roddick, British double gold medal runner Kelly Holmes, rappers Jay-Z and 50 Cent, NBA stars Allen Iverson and Yao Ming and TV and film star Lucy Liu.

"Every other sporting goods commercial is about buying the shoe to become something you're not. This is about being yourself," Roddick said in a phone interview.

Ads will begin appearing in March on TV, in magazines and movie theaters and on billboards in markets including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris and Tokyo.

Article: USA TODAY

Etnies Introduces Metal Mulisha Shoe

Etnies Footwear and Metal Mulisha leader Brian Deegan proudly introduce the new Floyd Mulisha shoe.

"The Floyd Mulisha is, hands down, the best shoe on the market," says Deegan. "Not only does it look sick, but it is very comfortable, too."

The etnies Floyd Mulisha is now officially unleashed. Catch a pair in stores on March 1, 2005.

Article: Cycle News

Reebok claims Wal-Mart violated shoe sole patent

Athletic shoe maker Reebok claims in a federal lawsuit that retail giant Wal-Mart sold a line of basketball shoes that violated Reebok's patent for a three-layer cushioned sole.

Reebok asked that Wal-Mart stop selling its Starter Oxide shoes and notify customers who bought them that they are unauthorized copies of Reebok's DMX Reflex shoe, and should be returned. Reebok's lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Boston in December, also seeks unspecified damages and legal costs.

Article: The Patriot Ledger

Jordan Celebrates 20 Years of Air Jordan With the Launch of the Air Jordan XX

High-Performance Basketball Shoe Launches During NBA All-Star 2005, With New Ads and Special Events Commemorating Michael Jordan's Legacy.

Jordan, a division of Nike, Inc., is celebrating 20 years of the shoe that changed the game -- Air Jordan -- with the debut of the new Air Jordan XX during NBA All Star 2005. The Air Jordan XX will be supported by a multi-pronged marketing approach that includes a provocative and inspirational national advertising campaign along with a major presence in Denver during NBA All-Star 2005 with a series of community, consumer and celebrity events.

Officially available in retail stores on February 19th, the Air Jordan XX is the most technologically advanced basketball shoe in the world, underscoring Jordan's innovation platform and performance capabilities. Crafted by legendary shoe designer Tinker Hatfield, the motorcycle-inspired shoe weaves design and technology with the patented Independent Podular Suspension (IPS) and a laser-etched strap that includes over 200 icons, creating a tapestry of stories connected to Michael Jordan's unparalleled life and career.

Article: biz.yahoo.com

Buying Shoes :)

A man walks into a shoe store, and tries on a pair of shoes. "How do they feel?" asks the sales clerk.
"Well they feel a bit tight," replies the man.

The assistant promptly bends down and has a look at the shoes and at the man's feet. "Try pulling the tongue out," the clerk says.

"Well, theyth sthill feelth a bith tighth."

Sale of the Day! Lario 710

It's a sale! You can save 309(!) USD on Larios 710 boots right now.

Old price: $364.00
Now: $53.90! (86% off!)

Fast and fashionable boxing-inspired boot. Leather upper with contrast stitch detailing. Leather lining. Lightly padded footbed. Rubber sole.

Available sizes: 35 (US 4.5) Women's; Width: M (standart)

No shoes! Why not?


A model removes her shoes after one broke while modeling a black lace/tulle/velvet dance dress designed by Reem Acra at New York's Fashion Week, February 7, 2005.

Article: http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/050207/ids_photos_en/r3023087671.jpg

The world's largest shoe

The Guinness Book of Records has recognized the Red Wing Shoes boot as the world's largest shoe. It's 16 feet tall and 20 feet long and was built to mark the company's 100th anniversary.

Article: indystar.com

Sale of the day! Bruno Magli Mustiola

It's a sale! You can save 743(!) USD on Bruno Magli Mustiola boots right now.

Old price: $990.00
Now: $246.90! (76% off!)

Simply stunning full shaft boot featuring beautiful embroidered details. Soft suede upper and leather lining. Side zip entry. Leather sole with a slip-resistant toe. Absolutely gorgeous!; 14 1/2" shaft height and 12" calf circumference.

Available sizes: 5; 5,5; 8,5; 10

Shot of a garden with a woman's legs :)

How to Get the Classic Jennifer Lopez StyleOne-inch to three-inch heels on shoes are the best choice fo

...
One-inch to three-inch heels on shoes are the best choice for women in business. All-leather shoes are more comfortable, longer lasting and better looking. Black, navy, brown, taupe and cream pumps will meet almost every shoe requirement. Hosiery should always be worn to complete a look and should never be snagged or have runners. (Keep extra pairs in your glove box and in your desk at the office.) Neutral or skin tones are the most universal colors for hosiery, but sheer navy, black or cream can work well. Trouser socks may be worn instead of hose with slacks and trousers. Regardless, hosiery should complement the outfit.
...

Article: presstrust.com

Check Your shoes often, maybe some pets there :)

Hot New Shoe Designer

Jump aside Jimmy Choo, budge up Blahnik there is a new red hot show designer that is on all the must have lists.

Spanish shoe designer Maloles has wowed the fashion set with her feminine and pretty shoes ranging from pumps, to high heels.

Fans of the new shoe designer include Spanish actress Penelope Cruz and her first collection was a sell out in Paris.
She also has received the ultimate fashion accolade by having her distinctive designs featured in US Vogue in December.

The shoes are described by the designer being for “busy working women who love shoes.” She also describes the shoes as “very feminine and they have a sense of humour.”

Catherine Zeta Jones and Julia Roberts have also been given her shoes as part of the Ocean 12 goodie bags.

Article: http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/fashion/3442004.htm

$1 MILLION SHOES AT OSCARS


HALLE BERRY will dazzle onlookers at this year's ACADEMY AWARDS by wearing diamond-encrusted shoes worth $1 million (GBP525,000).

The Hollywood beauty, 38, will model the expensive, jewellery-laden footwear loaned to her by Los Angeles designer STUART WEITZMAN as she presents an OSCAR this month (FEB05).

A source says, "The new shoes have more than 400 pear-shaped and round diamonds."

Article: contactmusic.com

adidas Campaign "Made to Perfection"

Activities adidas announced Saturday the debut of a new global basketball campaign featuring NBA All-Stars Kevin Garnett (#21), Tracy McGrady (#1) and Tim Duncan (#21), in a spot that reveals that they were "Made to Perfection".

"Made to Perfection" coincides with the launch of Kevin Garnett's second signature performance basketball shoe, the a3 Garnett '05 (launches February 11th, 2005).

Wolverine Boots and Shoes Walks Away with Sixth Plus Award



Wolverine(R) Boots and Shoes has been selected to receive the 2004 Plus Award for excellence in design in the work footwear category for the sixth consecutive year.

Footwear Plus, a leading trade publication, compiled votes from footwear retailers, manufacturers and industry leaders to determine this year's award winners. Wolverine will be honored with its Plus Award at the World Shoe Association (WSA) show in Las Vegas on February 5, 2005.

Article: http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20050204005092&newsLang=en

Army boots - Test :)

TIGHT SHOES

Like many of their peers, the kickers in the Super Bowl wear shoes that are more than one size smaller than their street shoes.

New England's Adam Vinatieri wears a size 10 street shoe but uses an 8 1/2 on game day. Philadelphia's David Akers uses an 8 1/2 on his plant foot and 7 1/2 on kicking foot, but wears a 9 1/2 in street shoes.

Stylist Offers Spring Fashion Tips

... Lisa Hogan, Younkers' personal shopper, offered more tips on the hottest fashion shoe trends of the spring: Wedges are back in fashion, and the pointed-toe high heels are sticking around. The round-toe high heel is making a comeback, perhaps because it's more comfortable ...

Article: theiowachannel.com

MISCHA SIGNS UP TO MODEL KEDS SHOES

THE O.C. star MISCHA BARTON has signed on to become footwear firm Keds Corporation's first celebrity spokesperson in its 89-year history.

The leggy actress will be seen wearing Keds casual shoes in a series of upcoming print ads.

Shot by renowned fashion photographer PAMELA HANSON in Los Angeles, the campaign will feature in major fashion magazines from March (05) onwards.

Keds Vice-President JENNIFER WIEDERMAN says, "Mischa is the ideal choice to be the face of Keds. Keds, like Mischa, is all about authenticity, confidence and classic style."

The footwear company has landed the added perk of getting hold of stylish Mischa's fashion secrets on its website www.keds.com.

Article: contactmusic.com

Dirrty shoes :)

A married man was having an affair with his secretary. One day, their passions overcame them and they took off for her house, where they made passionate love all afternoon. Exhausted from the wild sex, they fell asleep, awakening around 8.00 p.m.
As the man threw on his clothes, he told his lover to take his shoes outside and rub them through the grass and dirt. Mystified, she nonetheless complied. He slipped into his shoes and drove home.
"Where have you been!" demanded his wife when he entered the house.
"Darling, I can't lie to you. I've been having an affair with my secretary, and we've been having sex all afternoon. I fell asleep and didn't wake up until 8.00 p.m."
The wife glanced down at his shoes and said, "You lying bastard! You've been playing golf!!"

You want to buy athletic shoes

Most stores — from discount stores to traditional shoe shops — can offer a vast array of brands and styles.

It's great to have selection.

It's not so great, at times, to have so many.

Choosing the right athletic shoe for the right activity can be downright confusing.

There are things you need to know.

"You can buy the most expensive athletic shoe in the world and if they don't fit right, they will do you no good," said Steve Ruzek, manager of Brown's Shoe Fit Co. in Mason City.

Knowledge about fit, shoe type and foot type are key considerations when buying sports shoes.

"The best thing to do is find someone who fits people everyday," Ruzek said. "Not everyone is going to know how to do this. Customers need to ask questions and let someone who is knowledgeable help them."

Dr. Steve Brau, a podiatrist at the Mason City Clinic, said people serious about exercise should not be swayed by style over function.

Nikes or Reeboks, for instance, are popular shoes but have fewer choices for people with wide feet, Brau said.

Some lesser-known brands — Saucony and ASICS, for instance — may offer more in terms of width and other function.

There are about as many types of athletic shoes as there are sports. About 90 percent of all athletic shoes, however, fall into three categories: walking, running and cross-trainer shoes.

All three have different attributes, depending on the activity and how often the owner participates.

"If you have pretty normal feet and you're only doing occasional exercise, a $40 shoe might be just fine for you," agreed Brau said.

However, anyone serious about activity needs to have shoes that fit for the type of activity, foot type, length and width.

Fitting shoes is particularly important for those with high or too-low arches, or those who deal with pronation or supination (feet that turn inward or outward).

Your feet need to be measured by a professional as well. Studies show that 85 percent of all athletic shoes purchased are too short for the foot, Ruzek said.

Reach Deb Nicklay at 421-0531 or deb.nicklay@globegazette.com.

When buying a shoe:

* Sport Specific Shoe. Plan to select a shoe specific for the sport in which you will participate.

* Specialty Shoe Store. It is best to use a store that specializes in athletic shoes.

* Bring Useful Information. What injuries have you had in the past and what, if anything, is your current problem? What is your general foot type and foot shape? How have previous shoe models worn?

* Have Your Feet Measured Each Time. As you age, you'll find that your foot size may gradually change. More importantly, sizes of shoes can change frequently — even within months. Your feet may also be different sizes.

* Wear Socks You Plan To Use. If you wear an insert, an orthotic or an orthotic with a flat insert underneath it, bring these along to the shoe store. And be sure to wear the same type of sock when you are fitted for your shoe as you will wear when participating in your sport.

* Size. You need at least a pinky finger width between your longest toe and the front end of the shoe. The toe box should have adequate room for your toes. The heel should be stable and not move in and out of the shoe. Wear the shoe for at least 10 minutes in the store to see how it feels.

* Socks. Cotton socks are available everywhere but are not often appropriate for your sports activity. The best sock is often one made of synthetic fibers that wick moisture away from your feet.

— American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine

What about price?

Many shoe customers don't understand why they might be able to buy a $40 pair of athletic shoes at discount stores and have to pay more than $100 for the same brand at a shoe store.

Good question, said Steve Ruzek of Brown's Shoe Fit Co. in Mason City. Most of it has to do with quality of construction. Tips to consider:

* Most brands will have multiple lines of shoes, from less expensive to upper end.

* Upper-end shoes, from $90 on up, will most likely be constructed of leather or nylon mesh material — the only ones that allow feet to breathe.

* Sole construction may be more sophisticated in a higher-end shoe. Some will have a roll bar in the back of the shoe to prevent pronation, and feature a good selection of width sizes.

"What you are doing is picking up function" with the more expensive shoe, Ruzek said.


Article: globegazette.com MASON CITY

Athletic shoe companies race for Chinese market

China is better known for making most of the world's sports shoes rather than wearing them, but the world's biggest athletic shoe brands are in a race to change that.

Adidas-Salomon announced last Monday that it would be a major sponsor of the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008. Chinese athletes will wear the Adidas brand shoes and sportswear throughout the Games.

Beyonce’s Bootylicious Boots

Beyonce Knowles stepped out in a pair of bootylicious boots in Manhattan this week.

The 23 year old singer was the centre of attention for wearing a pair of spectacular cowboy boots by fashion designer Stella Mc Cartney.
The imitation leather gold and bronze boots were especially made for her at the cost of £2000. Mc Cartney’s has a strict vegetarian policy and ensures that no animal products are used in her designs.

Article: http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/fashion/3052004.htm

Bonjour Fleurette shoes lauded by Oprah again



Bonjour Fleurette, a Sonoma-founded footwear company, has landed on Oprah Winfrey's "O List" in the February issue of "O" magazine for the second time in 21 months with its flower-embroidered, ruby red, faux-fur-lined suede "Budeez" boots.

This type of editorial mention cannot be solicited and is extremely difficult to get in the fiercely competitive world of fashion.

In May 2003, after Bonjour Fleurette's "Spa Fleurs" sandals were featured on Oprah's spring "Favorite Things" show and included in the "O List," a deluge of orders briefly shut down the Bonjour Fleurette Web site. With an avalanche of rave reviews, Bonjour Fleurette has both expanded its online sales capabilities to meet the demand and grown its retail base from 20 stores in Northern California to over 1,200 outlets across the United States in less than five years.

The shoes have been featured on the Today Show, Good Morning America, in The New York Times, Vogue and other media outlets.

Locally, Bonjour Fleurette's Budeez are at MacArthur Place Hotel and at the Seasons boutique on West Napa Street. A cause-based company, Bonjour Fleurette donates a portion of its sales to the National Hospice Foundation. Go to www.bonjourfleurette.com.

Article: sonomanews.com

Bigger-footed French buying more shoes

The average French foot has grown by three centimetres in the past 40 years, and the French now buy more shoes, mostly made in Asia, than any other nation barring the United States, a new survey said. The average shoe size for a French woman has risen from a seven in Britain and Australia, and a seven and half in the US, said the survey by the Centre Technique Cuir (Technical Leather Centre).
The French also now buy an average of 5.3 pairs of shoes a year, compared with 4.8 in the rest of Europe. The Americans remain the top buyers, treating themselves to 6.3 pairs of new shoes a year. Head of the CTC, Marc Flochier, said “some 78 percent of world shoe production takes place in Asia”, pleading for buyers to pay greater heed to the talents of the local shoemaker. “It takes some 20 pieces, at least 150 different operations and up to 130 minutes to make one single shoe,” said a statement from the centre. afp
Article: http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=story_4-2-2005_pg9_5

The Magic Sandals :)

This married couple was on holiday in India. They were touring around the marketplace looking at the goods and such, when they passed this small sandal shop. From inside they heard a gentleman with an Indian accent say, "You foreigners! Come in. Come into my humble shop."
So the married couple walked in. The Indian man said to them "I have some special sandals I tink you would be interested in. Dey make you wild at sex like great desert camel."
Well, the wife was really interested in buying the sandals after what the man claimed, but her husband felt he really didn't need them, being the sex god he was.
The husband asked the man, "How could sandals make you into a sex freak?"
The Indian man replied, "Just try dem on, Saiheeb."
Well, the husband, after some badgering from his wife, finally gave in, and tried them on. As soon as he slipped them onto his feet, he got this wild look in his eyes, something his wife hadn't seen in many years!!
In the blink of an eye, the husband grabbed the Indian man, bent him violently over a table, yanked down his pants, ripped down his own pants, and grabbed a firm hold of the Indian's thighs.
The Indian then began screaming,"YOU HAVE DEM ON DE WRONG FEET!!!
Article: http://www.superlaugh.com/1/sandal.htm

UGG Australia Named Brand of the Year by Footwear Plus

Deckers Outdoor Corporation (NASDAQ DECK) today announced that UGG Australia has been named Brand of the Year for 2004 by Footwear Plus, a leading footwear trade publication.
Deckers Outdoor Corporation builds niche products into global lifestyle brands by designing and marketing innovative, functional and fashion-oriented footwear, developed for both high performance outdoor activities and everyday casual lifestyle use. The Company's products are offered under the Teva, Simple and UGG brand names.
Article: http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20050203005221&newsLang=en

Footwear-catching escalator

An escalator at the top floor of a department store in the capital poses a real danger to shoppers. It was learnt that a customer was recently left distressed after his sandal got caught in between the escalator's steps, which ultimately dragged him into the moving escalator. Glad that it was not his foot that had got caught, the shopper did however add that he was left uncertain of what to do next. According to several staff members, there have been several instances where children encountered the same experience. No complains have, however, been lodged.
Article: http://www.brunei-online.com/bb/thu/feb3h20.htm

Patent Leather Shoes :)

Boudreaux went to the store and bought him a pair of patent leather shoes. After seeing how mirror looking they were, he decided to go to the dance. He asked one lady to dance. He then tells her, "You are wearing red panties." She asks how does he know? He looks down at his patent leather shoes. He then asks another lady to dance. He says, "You are wearing blue panties." She asks how does he know this? He then looks down at his patent leather shoes. He then asks Clotilde to dance. He looks at his patent leather shoes about five times. He asks Clotilde if she is wearing any panties.. She replies, "No" He says, "Thank God, I thought my patent leather shoes were cracked."
Article: http://www.jokesgallery.com/joke.php?joke=795&id=1

Blonde Joke - New Shoes :)

A young blonde was on vacation in the depths of Louisiana. She wanted a pair of genuine alligator shoes in the worst way, but was very reluctant to pay the high prices the local vendors were asking. After becoming very frustrated with the "no haggle" attitude of one of the shopkeepers, the blonde shouted, "Maybe I'll just go out and catch my own alligator so I can get a pair of shoes at a reasonable price!"
The shopkeeper said, "By all means, be my guest. Maybe you'll luck out and catch yourself a big one!"
Determined, the blonde turned and headed for the swamps, set on catching herself an alligator.
Later in the day, the shopkeeper is driving home when he spots the young woman standing waist deep in the water, shotgun in hand. Just then, he sees a huge 9 foot alligator swimming quickly toward her. She takes aim, kills the creature and with a great deal of effort hauls it on to the swamp bank. Laying nearby were several more of the dead creatures.
The shopkeeper watches in amazement. Just then the blonde flips the alligator on it's back, and frustrated, shouts out, "Damn it, this one isn't wearing any shoes either!"
Article: http://www.funmansion.com/html/New-Shoes.html

FOOTWEAR SUCCESS: Reason to kick up heels. Wolverine revenue is racing toward.

Wolverine World Wide Inc., the Rockford-based footwear company known for its rugged shoe and boot brands, Wednesday reported a 27.5-percent jump in profits for 2004, surpassing Wall Street expectations -- and even those of its own executives.
The company said fourth-quarter profits were up 11 percent to $20.7 million, or 52 cents a share, from $18.6 million, or 46 cents a share, in the same period of 2003. After factoring in a 3-for-2 stock split Wednesday, earnings for the quarter were 34 cents a share.
Fourth-quarter revenues were $307.4 million, a rise of 9 percent over $282.8 million reported a year ago. Wolverine said that its order backlog was up 13 percent at the end of the quarter.
Wolverine brands include Hush Puppies, Merrell, Sebago, Harley-Davidson, Caterpillar, Wolverine and Bates.
Article: http://www.freep.com/money/business/www3e_20050203.htm

Ex-policeman charged with stealing $100K in shoes

A former Fairfield police officer was charged yesterday with stealing $100,000 worth of shoes from the athletic shops where he worked under one of his closest friends, police and store employees said.
Police charged Gregory Madden, 40, of 113 Paul Place in Fairfield, with first-degree larceny after an investigation showed Madden stole more than 900 pairs of sneakers from Athletic Shoe Factory stores in New Canaan, Fairfield and Westport and sold them on the auction Web site eBay.com, Lt. James George said.
Article: http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/local/scn-sa-nor.shoe5feb02,0,980861.story?coll=stam-news-local-headlines

New Women's Shoes Provide Chic Look for the Office and an Rx for Aching Feet


Been running around to meetings all day, at an industry trade show or rushing to get your kids to ball practice? For today's busy women executives, a typical day can result in one thing -- aching feet. Decades before "Sex and the City" made Manolo Blahnik a household name, women have been teetering around in uncomfortable shoes to look good. Blisters, hammertoes, bunions and aching backs are just some of the shoe-related ailments women suffer in the name of fashion.
Nota Bene is a new line of women's dress shoes that offers both high style and a healthy fit -- perfect for the professional woman or working mom on the move. The shoes provide benefits and features that others do not, including: more than twice the cushioning and shock absorption, toe box dimensions that help prevent blisters, a contemporary look with orthopedic engineering, and affordability. They are available in select shoe stores or online at http://www.notabeneshoes.com
Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050203/NYFNSQ03
Article: http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050203/nyfnsq03_1.html

Friday, February 04, 2005

Tax Free Week, Good For Everybody

This week shoppers in New York State are saving money on footwear and clothing. There's no sales tax on those items if they cost less than $110, and some lawmakers are pushing to make the tax break permanent.

Consumers as well as retailers benefit from the savings.
This is the best time of year to shop for clothes and shoes because of the blowout sales.