Fashion Meets Comfort With Naturalizer Shoes

Over the years, I’ve managed to collect a LOT of shoes.  My husband is always trying to bribe convince me to get rid of some, but a girl can never have too many shoes.  Before children, I chose style over comfort.  I actually have several pairs of shoes that I can no longer wear safely, because of this reason.

If you can believe it, I’m currently wearing the most adorable pair of shoes from a brand my MOM wears.  I remember going to the Naturalizer store at the mall to shop for shoes with her as a child. And to be honest, I dreaded going to that store when I was a teenager. Today, I don’t have enough money space to buy all of the shoes I want from the store.

Do you ever buy shoes that don’t quite feel right until you’ve “broken them in?”  Naturalizer shoes are designed with N5 Comfort Elements which include the following five features:

Perforated insoles for flexibility

Featherweight outsoles for lightness in each step

Ergonomic heel and toe shapes for stability

Extra cushioning underfoot to lessen impact

Breathable linings to keep feet cool

The brand is well known for designing comfortable shoes that can be worn all day.  And with designs like this:

Women don’t have to choose comfort over style.  Because I rarely ever wear closed-toed shoes, I chose their Keene Platform Sandals in black.  I can wear them with a nice dress or a pair of jeans and they really are comfortable, given the 1 inch wedge heel.  They also feature a non-slip outsole, perfect for moms on the go.

Naturalizer’s reflexologist (yes…they have one!) Michelle Ebbin recognizes that women often neglect their feet (among other things).  Here are her tips for selecting a proper-fitting shoe:

15 minutes of…comfort: When selecting a shoe, you should be able to walk for at least 15 minutes without discomfort or pressure to any part of the feet. Even if you live in heels, you should be able to feel balanced and stable enough so that you are not carrying all of your body weight on the balls of your feet.  Balance ensures that your core is stable and energy circulation can flow easily. Stability promotes stress relief and improved posture.

Breathe easy: Every woman knows how annoying sweaty, sliding feet can be. And when your feet can’t breathe, your energy can’t flow. Find shoes with a breathable lining. By keeping your feet cool, and comfortable, you can relieve and prevent energy blockages in the feet.

Lighten up and embrace the softer side: Hard, clunky shoes are more than just ugly, they can affect your circulation. The lighter the weight and the softer the cushioning, the less pressure on your feet which means better circulation.

The 2010 shoe mantra – NO BREAKING IN: Flexibility means no “breaking-in” period. Supportive, lightweight shoes lessen the impact of gravity, which can wreak havoc on your feet and your entire body. Buy shoes that feel good straight out of the box.

Right now, Naturalizer is having a sale with savings of up to 50% on spring and summer styles.

Fashionably Functional Kid’s Shoes *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is susan smoaks.  Congrats!

In three short years, my son has gone through a lot of shoes.  While he does tend to “wear them well,” shoes usually get retired because he’s outgrown them. Children’s feet grow and develop rapidly, and a proper fitting shoe is crucial.

So what do I look for in a children’s shoe?

1.  Comfort. It’s difficult, particularly in young children, to determine if a shoe is comfortable. I learned early on that a shoe didn’t fit my son properly because they wouldn’t stay on.  As he became vocal, he’d outright refuse to wear those shoes that were uncomfortable. Tsukihoshi’s children’s shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort for children’s growing feet.  There are four functions of Tsukihoshi’s children’s shoes that ensure maximum comfort and support.

a.  Balanced Landing

b. Arch Support

c. Light & Flexible

d. Barefoot-like Comfort

2.  Support.  When a child is first learning to walk, they’re obviously unsteady.  I expect a few stumbles and falls, but a supportive shoe, designed for a tot who is learning how to walk is important.  As I mentioned above, Tsukihoshi’s children’s shoes are designed to provide children with stability while they learn to walk.

3.  Style.  I love dressing my kids in smart, trendy clothing.  Tsukihoshi offers a variety of trendy shoes for babies, boys, and girls (although I’m partial to their girl’s styles).

4.  Price.  Children go through shoes quickly, particularly early on.  I typically opt for shoes that are moderately priced while taking craftsmanship and style into consideration.

Overall, we were pleased with my son’s Tsukihoshi shoes.  They’re stylish, comfortable, moderately priced (I’ve seen comparable children’s shoes priced much higher), and durable. My son is able to get them on and off by himself, which is a definite time-saver for this busy mom.  And…I can throw them in the wash (which I did) when they get dirty (which they have).

You can find Tsukihoshi children’s shoes at physical and online retailers nationwide.

Win It! One of you will win a pair of shoes from Tsukihoshi. Simply leave me a comment with the name of the style you’d choose (other than the one I reviewed).  Comments will close on July 7, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn. Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow on Tsukihoshi on Twitter.

Like Tsukihoshi on Facebook.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post.  A product sample was provided to facilitate this review.

Fabulously Fit: Shape-ups by Skechers

Now that I’ve been given the “ok” to exercise, I’m ready to dive right in and shed the pounds that brestfeeding has not taken care of.  Finding the time to work out is a challenge, so if any of you have tips on doing this with two, please feel free to comment or send me an email.  In the meantime, I’m wearing my Skechers Shape-ups in hopes of toning up some of the flab!

Two weeks ago I attended an A-Mazing event with SV Moms Group (more on the event to come very soon!).  We had the privilege of interacting on a personal level with a variety of brands, one of which was Skechers.  They had a table full of shoes…all for us! And since I have a shoe addiction weakness for shoes, I couldn’t resist accepting of pair of Skechers new Shape-ups.  The shoes are designed to promote weight loss, strengthen the back, firm calf and buttock muscles, reduce cellulite and tone thighs, increase cardiovascular health, improve posture, and reduce stress on knee and ankle joints.  Here is a little summary of how they work, from the site:

Designed to improve your life by changing the way you walk, Shape-ups feature a unique soft kinetic wedge insert and dynamic rolling bottom to simulate walking on soft sand. With the comfort of Shape-ups, you will feel your heel sink to the ground as you step, roll forward as your weight shifts to its center, and push off with your toes. This movement will result in stronger leg, buttock, back and abdominal muscles as you stabilize your steps.

I was a bit skeptical about their ability to promote weight loss.  But the company conducted four clinical studies in the US and Japan which demonstrated “increased muscle activity and energy consumption when compared to standard fitness shoes” over a six to eight week time period (for 25-45 minutes per day).  I have only really been wearing the shoes for about a week (and inconsistently), so time and consistent wear will really determine whether or not I’ll lose the weight and tone my flabby bits (British humor!).

When I wore my Shape-ups for the first time, it was a bit of an adjustment.  There is a proper way to walk in them in order to attain the stated benefits.  Here is a short intro video I found helpful:

The shoes have a  thick sole, and walking with them takes some getting used to (but it didn’t take me longer than a day or so).  I find them very comfortable, but I can’t tell how effective they are yet (I haven’t been consistently wearing them as recommended).  I’m definitely going to keep wearing them and update you on how effective they are at toning and weight loss in a few weeks.

For a fitness shoe, they’re very stylish.  I like the added heighth they provide. They come in a variety of styles and colors including boots, Mary Janes, sneakers, and slippers.  Prices vary but range from $99 to $115. For more information on Shape-ups, including benefits and use, visit their site.

I did not receive compensation for this post.  A product sample was received at the event.

Wanted Shoes

Some women splurge on designer handbags or expensive jewelry.  While I do appreciate those things (and would never turn them down…hint hint hubby), I’d purchase a gorgeous pair of shoes over both of those items on any day.  My husband is always trying to bribe persuade me to get rid of some of my shoes.  And to be honest, I’ve had some of the shoes in my closet since I was in college and I think it’s probably time to update my shoe wardrobe.

I’ve always been very conscious of my spending habits.  And now that I’m staying home with the kids for a bit, I am striving to be a smart shopper.  I was recently introduced to Wanted Shoes, “an internationally recognized brand known for fun, fashionable footwear.”  The company strives to offer consumers quality, stylish shoes that are also affordable.  The majority of the line is geared towards junior and young contemporary women.  Their style is described as edgy with a European flair.  Some of the shoes you’ll find include Casual and Dressy Boots, Heels, Flats, Sandals, Sneakers, and Clogs.

Despite the fact that I live in Southern California, I still enjoy wearing boots.  And right now I’m proudly wearing these Holster Short Brown Boots from Wanted Shoes. They’re short (perfect for SoCal!), distressed boots adorned with chains and studded straps.  I was surprised at how comfortable they are, given the pointy toe.  The heel is high enough to give me some height but not so tall that I have difficulty walking in them.  I’ve been wearing them with jeans and casual wear, however I could see myself wearing them with a skirt to dress the outfit up a bit.  Comfort is my first priority when I purchase a pair of shoes.  However, the look and style of the shoe is just as important.  The boots from Wanted Shoes achieve both requisites.  They’re also durable and made well.

The company just released their 2010 line.  Many of the shoes are identical to those with designer brand names on them…they’re just available at a fraction of the cost.  It’s a new year… Perhaps you want to change up your style a bit.  Check out Wanted Shoes for fashionable, affordable footwear with styles that are in season now.  Right now they’re offering free same day shipping and buy 2 get one free.

I did not receive compensation for this post.  I received a product, courtesy of the company, in order to facilitate my review.

New Year, New You, New Feet!

I was JUST talking to my husband about how many shoes I have.  We were watching a video of a celebrity who took viewers on a tour of her home, including her giant-sized ROOM of a shoe closet.  I told Jason that he could never say anything about the number of shoes I own again (ha!).  Over the years I’ve managed to collect a lot of shoes.  And because I live in Southern California, many of those are open-toed heels and flats (and not always the most comfortable for my feet).

I remember going shopping with my mom for shoes at Naturalizer.  She shopped there because she felt the shoes were the most comfortable for walking.  I was a teenager at the time, and comfort was not at the forefront of my mind.  Maybe I’m older…maybe my sense of style has changed…maybe the company has changed…  All I know is that when I look at their collection, I see a lot of shoes I’d purchase, simply based on how they look.  Better yet, the shoes are comfortable!

Naturalizer’s reflexologist and mother of three Michelle Ebbin, knows about being a busy mom on her feet. Michelle has worked with clients such as Salma Hayek, Ashley Judd and Peter Gabriel. Below are some quick and easy tips she’s provided to help any mom start the year off on the right foot:

1.     15 minutes of…comfort: When selecting a shoe, you should be able to walk for at least 15 minutes without discomfort or pressure to any part of the feet. Even if you live in heels, you should be able to feel balanced and stable enough so that you are not carrying all of your body weight on the balls of your feet.  Balance ensures that your core is stable and energy circulation can flow easily.  Stability promotes stress relief and improved posture.

2.     Breathe easy: Every woman knows how annoying sweaty, sliding feet can be.  And when your feet can’t breathe, your energy can’t flow. Find shoes with a breathable lining. By keeping your feet cool, and comfortable, you can relieve and prevent energy blockages in the feet.

3.     Lighten up and embrace the softer side: Hard, clunky shoes are more than just ugly, they can affect your circulation. The lighter the weight and the softer the cushioning, the less pressure on your feet which means better circulation.

4.     The 2010 shoe mantra – NO BREAKING IN: Flexibility means no “breaking-in” period.  Supportive, lightweight shoes lessen the impact of gravity, which can wreak havoc on your feet and your entire body. Buy shoes that feel good straight out of the box.

I know for a fact that I have not always selected shoes based on the above criteria.  In fact, I have several pairs of shoes I can no longer stand wearing because of pregnancy feet changes (more on that in another post!).

Right now (through June 10, 2010), you’ll receive 15% off any purchase by using the code “NTWELL” (no quotes) on Naturalizer.com and Naturalizer.ca purchases.

I did not receive compensation for this post.  The information was provided to me by Naturalizer.

If the Shoe Fits…

Two weeks ago, I walked out of etnies with 4 pairs of shoes and respect and admiration for a company I had never heard of.  Being that I collect shoes like some people collect stamps or coins, you would think that I’d have some knowledge of one of the leading action sports footwear and apparel companies in the world.  The company was founded (and is still owned) by former world champion skateboarder Pierre Andre Senizergues (oui, he’s French!). But alas, there is always something new to be learned.

Two weeks ago, a group of us from OC Family Magazine had an opportunity to tour the company headquarters (conveniently located about 15 minutes from my house).  I had no idea there was an actual science that went into making shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support.  Apparently, a lot of force is exerted on one’s feet when participating in an activity such as skateboarding.  We received an insider’s look into their Sole Technology Institute, the world’s first and only biomechanics lab dedicated to studying the effects of skateboarding on the body.  We even had a  demonstration from one of the testers (video to come!).

Since my son is only two, I actually found their Grow With Me Fit System particularly relevant.  As a mom to a toddler (and a baby girl due in a few weeks), I find buying shoes a bit challenging.  Because apart from measuring my son’s foot at the mall, I really have no way of knowing if they fit properly.  Are they wide enough?  Do they provide enough support? Are they comfortable?  When should he move to the next size up?  So many questions.  None of which can be answered by him. The Grow With Me line was designed for growing feet (which basically describes babies, toddlers, preschoolers, etc.).  Because there is an insert inside the shoe, children can actually wear the shoe longer than most (and we all know how quickly children grow out of shoes!). One of the features of the baby and tot line is an extra wide construction to accommodate the shape of a child’s feet as he/she is learning to walk.  You’ve probably heard that children who are learning to walk actually fare better from not wearing any shoes at all.  However, that’s somewhat impractical (and unsafe on many surfaces).  The wider base and flexible soles allow children to learn how to walk with as much support and comfort as possible (given the fact that they’re wearing a shoe!).  Here is a short summary of the Grow With Me Fit System (from the site):

• Removable 1.5mm EVA insert creates more room and increases wear time.
• Super soft TPR outsole that allows the flexibility needed for children’s feet.
• Constructed on an extra wide last to accommodate the unique shape of children’s feet.
• Molded EVA footbed to help grab and hold tiny heels in the shoe.

The Grow With Me line offers shoes that retail for approximately $27 (with shoes above and below this price point).

etnies is committed to creating stylish, comfortable shoes that offer the support and protection necessary for a baby learning to walk, a teenager skateboarding on the weekends, or a parent running after their child.

If you live in the Southern California area, check out this promotion (you won’t find it advertised nationally).  Save $10 off of every $40 spent on their site and receive free shipping using the code “ETNIES FAMILY” (valid through December 4, 2009).  And, if you want to visit one one of their retail partners, you’ll receive an etnies tote with the purchase of any pair of shoes.  Here are the stores participating:

Orange County:
Newport Shoe Bootery (Shoe Box)
41041 Newport Center Dr.
(Fashion Island)
Newport Beach, CA
92660

Los Angeles:
Urban Feet

329 W. 6th Street
San Pedro, CA 90731

Inland Empire:
Powder & Sun
16210 Bear Valley Rd.
Victorville, CA. 92392

One last thing that I feel is important to mention about the company.  If you are a regular reader, than you know how passionate I am about the environment.  etnies has taken numerous steps to reduce their carbon footprint.  Some time was spent discussing their efforts which include (but are not limited to) the use of water based inks on their clothing, recycled PET fabric, hang tags printed on recycled paper, and use of water based cements (as opposed to petroleum).  For more info on their efforts, visit their site.

Here are some photos from the event:

Blogging, tweeting, Whrrling all about etnies!

It just wouldn’t be like me not to post a picture of food now would it?

Disclosure:  The company provided me with a gift card to shop in their store.  Consequently, my husband, son, and soon-to-be born baby girl all benefited, leaving this mama without a single  pair of shoes to add to her collection.

Oh My Aching Feet (No More!) *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Mishia.  Congrats!

As a nurse who works 12+ hours on my feet, quality, supportive shoes are a must. And to be honest, I haven’t been wearing the appropriate shoes for a woman who stands and walks as much as I do.  It wasn’t until another provider commented on the lack of support my shoes were providing, that I started thinking about looking into other shoes.  There are many products I either would not spend money on, or would rather wait until they’re on sale to purchase (hence the fact that you won’t see certain types of products reviewed on my blog).  However, when it comes to shoes…for myself and for my family…I am willing to spend money.

I recently had an opportunity to try out the newly launched Timberland PRO Renova series, designed for women who work in professional caregiver roles.  If you’re a doctor, nurse, dentist, etc. these shoes are for you!  If you’re a mom who cares for children, these shoes are for you!  Here is a little more information about the shoes from the site:

Renova features unique Anti-Fatigue Technology that offers all-day standing comfort and support. Timberland PRO designed these shoes with the belief that by taking care of your feet, you are taking care of the rest of your body. The shoes are slip-resistant, easily washable and feature an exclusive Anti-Fatigue Technology, which offers superior shock absorption and exceptional leg and back support.

Timberland offers three different styles based on the type of shoe you prefer when standing for long periods of time.  I chose the Caregiver series, which is a slip-on clog because I like a little flare and style, even when I’m working.  But if you’re more the athletic type, the Provider series may be just the shoe for you.  Here is just a brief overview of each style (pay attention…hint hint!).

Caregiver – A series of clogs that offer the convenience of a slip-on, but ensure a secure fit with a built-in back strap.   The anatomically shaped oblique toe box allows room for the forefoot to spread, a slip-resistant outsole provides necessary safety protection and an Agion® anti-microbial treated footbed cover seeks to eliminate bacteria.  SRV $60.

Provider – A line of athletic-inspired shoes that features two styles: one with a leather upper and one with a synthetic upper, both treated with water-resistant material for easy cleaning.  An anatomically shaped, athletic toe box provides superior comfort, a SafeGripTM slip-resistant outsole grips both wet and dry surfaces for ease and mobility and an Agion® anti-microbial treated footbed cover seeks to eliminate bacteria.  SRV $80.

Professional – A premium line of shoes made with full-grain leathers and microsuede upper linings for outstanding style and durability. The Professional series shoes feature an anatomically shaped oblique toe box, the SafeGripTM slip-resistant outsole and a ScotchgardTM protector by 3M for superior stain resistance.  In addition, a Dryz® IntellitempTM footbed cover regulates temperature and manages moisture and bacteria, while the Bi-Fit® Tridensity footbed cradles the heel, and offers arch support and forefoot flexibility.  SRV $100.

Here is my take on the Caregiver series.  I received a pair in Navy.  I love the way they look.  Gone are the days of nursing and medical shoes looking as such. The clogs are fashionable enough to wear outside of the hospital (and I will!).  They’re relatively lightweight (but not as light as, say, a pair of Crocs), but sturdy and durable.  The shoes have a nice squishy, removable insert, and the shoe itself is built with a lot of support.  I also like the ability to wear them with or without a strap.  The soles are rubber and have “grip” to prevent clumsy people like me from slipping.  I’ll be honest that I haven’t spent an entire day in them yet, but the few hours I have worn them, I’ve been very comfy!  Gone are the days of sore feet…but now what excuse can I give to have my husband rub my feet?  Oh…and did I mention they come with a cute little buffer brush?

The company offers a 30 guarantee…but I doubt you’ll need it!

For more information on the Timberland PRO Renova series, including nationwide retailers, please visit their website.

Win It! One of you will win a pair of Timberland PRO Renova Series shoes and a recycled Renova tote bag, made from 100% recycled PET.  Simply leave me a comment/story detailing why you deserve a new pair of shoes, along with the style of shoe in the Renova series that best suits you.  Comments will close on October 23, 2009 at 10 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

Summer Shoes For Mom…Plus a Flojos Giveaway!

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Gianna.  Congrats!

Our temperate southern California weather allows me the flexibility to wear open-toed shoes practically every day.  I rarely ever wear closed-toed shoes or even socks for that matter, unless I’m going to work.  Now that summer is here, I’m excited about getting comfy with my flip-flops (which I’ll live in as long as the weather allows!).

One of my favorite sandal companies is California-based Flojos!  Shoes are one of my FAVORITE accessories (just ask my husband who is always trying to encourage me to get rid of some) so style is just as important as comfort.  Flojos offers both.  I find it pretty amazing that a company can take a shoe such as a flip flop, and turn it into so many different styles.  Here is a little more about the company:

Flojos, recognized as one of the top sandal manufacturers in the world, is a name synonymous with the active, California beach lifestyle.  Flojos (pronounced flo-hos, meaning “kick back” in Spanish) specializes in beach, fashion and sport sandals for women, men and children, with a focus on comfort, style and affordable prices.  All Flojos sandals are designed with attention to detail and comfort, with materials including top quality leather, nylon, rubber and canvas.  Most Flojos sandals are perfect for a walk on the beach, but some women’s styles are elaborately trimmed with beads and sequins—the perfect accessory for a night out on the town.

I had an opportunity to pick a style to review and wow, was that difficult.  With over 90 styles to choose from, that was my hardest decision.  I chose the Redondo style which comes in 3 colored floral prints and has a little platform heel.  The sandals are just adorable and so “me.” They have a small platform but they’re still very comfortable and easy to walk in.  The company also offers a variety of styles for men and children.  The prices are reasonably affordable (they even have a few on sale).

Win It! One of you will win a pair of Flojos.  You will have a choice of the following:  Women’s Zebra,  Kid’s Zebra, or Men’s Primo.  Simply leave me a comment with the style and color you’d choose if you won. Comments will close on July 9, 2009 at 10 PM PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Add the “Spring In For Summer Fun” banner to your sidebar and leave me a comment (be sure to visit the main party post for more details on extra entries)

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest. Be sure to use the hashtag #SummerEvent

Enter Tanya and Amanda’s giveaways

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Place my button on your site. If you have difficulty, please let me know.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

Bical Grippers

Now that summer is almost here, we’ll be spending a lot of time at the beach and the pool, since water is the only way to stay sane cool in our desert-like conditions.  In order to prepare for any water activity, we make sure we have the following:  All natural sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30, sun protective clothing, swim suit, towel, hat, sunglasses, swim diapers, water flotation devices, and water shoes.

I recently had an opportunity to test out Bical Grippers, “the original socks with sole.”  These fun and fashionable water shoes are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.  Here is a little more information from the site:

Bical Grippers are the original socks with sole.  Used as an indoor or outdoor shoe, they are fun, flexible and functional.  Awesome as a water shoe at the beach, water=park or pool.  Grippers easily transition to land to be worn as a fashion sock or shoe.  Indoors?  No problem – no more slipping on hardwood or tile floors and perfect at daycare or preschool as kids can pull them on and off by themselves.

Our entire downstairs living room, dining room, and kitchen consists of laminate and tile floors. I don’t like my son to walk barefoot, but he doesn’t necessarily always want to wear shoes at all times so the Bical Grippers are a perfect solution when he’s playing in the house.  They’re lightweight, flexible, breathable, and non-slip.  My son always ask me to help put them on because the fun designs are appealing to him.  We like using these when he’s playing with water because they dry  quickly and I can just throw them in the wash when they get dirty (I just air-dry rather them tumble-dry them).

I have to say I have this affinity towards internationally-made shoes, particularly since I’ve traveled and lived in many different countries.  Bical Grippers are manufactured in Brazil exceed the standards set forth by the CPSIA for lead in children’s products.  They’re available in US sizes 3 through 8 and can be used by infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The antimicrobial sole is removable and the breathable upper is a polyester/cotton blend.  This may sound strange, but when I took them out of the box, they had this really nice smell to them.  I’m actually going to send a pair with my son when he starts going to school in June.  Bical Grippers are available for purchase through Spree Fashions (but you’ll have to email them) and retail for $26 for the low socks and $29 for the high socks.  My one small complaint (apart from the fact that they’re a bit pricey because they’re foreign-made) is that they’re not easy to find.  I found them on The Baby Marketplace for $23.99 with free shipping.

For more fabulous fun summer products, visit Mommy Mandy & Mommy Goggles!