Growing numbers of celebrities have been spotted wearing Fitflops toning shoes recently. Chelsea Clinton, Julianne Moore and Jennifer Lopez have been seen wearing them. Actually, J. Lo even blogged about them. So what’s the secret behind Fitflops appeal?

Fitflops use something called “microwobbleboard” technology to mimic the sensation of walking barefoot on soft sand and to stimulate the muscles in the lower body. Walking in Fitflops will cause your bottom muscles to be engaged for up to 30% longer, your quadriceps for up to 19% longer and your hamstrings for up to 16% longer. There is also 22% more shock absorption than when walking in normal fitness shoes.

Wearing Fitflops can significantly reduce the force to your joints whilst walking. It can also reduce underfoot pressure on the toe and heel – which will help to relieve discomfort caused by heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. The big attraction for many users will be the fact that the additional work carried out by the lower body muscles whilst walking in Fitflops will help to trim your butt and tone your legs.

It’s easy to see how they would appeal to any busy woman – not just celebrities. If you don’t have time to get to the gym, then spending the day walking around in Fitflops can help you to stay in shape.

One explanation as to why Fitflops are so extremely popular is the fact that they are very colourful and stylish. They don’t look anything like exercise shoes. They began life as a range of flip flop style sandals but, due to customer demand – additional styles were introduced. Clogs, slippers and winter boots were added – very sensible, flip flops are hardly ideal for winter wear! The latest addition to the Fitflops range are sneakers – again very brightly coloured (how does platinum sound?) and very chic. They look like being a very popular choice this season.

Fitflops are not the only toning shoes to be found on the market. Reebok Easy Tones, Masai Barefoot Technology and Skechers Shape Ups are just a small selection of the other brands competing. However, not many of these have the fashion appeal of Fitflops – and the majority of them cost quite a bit more. You could, quite realistically, get a pair of Fitflops the next time you feel like treating yourself to a new pair of shoes. Any benefits you get in terms of toning and trimming could just be regarded as a (very nice) bonus.

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