Stylish Skechers for Every Activity

Today's Skechers are more than casual shoes. They're fashionable, everyday footwear that can also help you shape up while you show off your fashion sense. Since its founding in 1992, Skechers has remained true to its mission to offer casual, active footwear for men and women - geared primarily to young adults. But with its latest offering - the Shape-Ups line of shoes for men and women - you can get in shape just by wearing them and getting moving - and look fashionable while doing it.
With their rocker soles, Shape-Ups help tone your muscles with every step you take. (Running is not recommended.) It's as if you're walking barefoot. It has a polyurethane frame to stabilize and support the foot. Its foam midsole acts like a shock absorber and the rocker bottom outsole propels you forward. You should use a heel-to-toe walking gait to get the full benefit. All Shape Ups come with a detailed exercise guide so you can get the maximum benefit from these innovative shoes.

Shape-Ups come in a variety of styles for women. They include sneakers, boots and Mary Jane models. Some are dressier than others. It's important to note that Shape Ups run about a half-size small, so order at least a half-size larger than your usual size.

Models for Women

The Fitness Junkie model is a good example of a superior women's exercise sneaker. It's constructed of silver, hot pink and white leather and mesh. It runs just under $100 and is available in half sizes from 5 ½ to 11.

For a different look, try the Shape Ups Sleek Fit model in white leather and mesh upper. Rather than laces, it has an adjustable hook-and-loop Mary Jane strap. And best of all, as a Shape-Ups model, it offers the rolling sole - 1 ½ inch midsole at its highest point. The Sleek Fit model is also available in black nubuck. It also has breathable side panels and the black leather is punctuated with white stitching. Both of these models run around $100 and are available in half sizes, 6 to 11.

Made in black nubuck, the Shape-Ups Optimize model is more rugged looking than some models. It's all black with black laces and a padded collar and tongue for a more rounded appearance. The black nubuck leather has perforated detailing. It too runs just about $100 and is available in half sizes from 6 to 11.

For winter walking, consider the Shape-Ups Elasticity model in black suede trimmed with faux fur or the chocolate suede model with faux fur trim. The soft suede upper has a lace-up front and a side, half-length zipper. The shaft of the boot is 10½-inches-high. The top width is 5 inches. It's lined in faux fur and fabric. This model sells for $130 and is available in half sizes from 6 to 11.

For warmer weather, try a Shape-Ups sandal like the Trim Step in black leather. Because they feature a bungee-laced front that offers some stretch, this model would work well for those with wider feet. Available in half sizes from 6 to 11, they run just under $100.

The Physical model in toffee-colored suede and leather is a dressier way to wear one of the Shape Ups. They are dressy enough for a "business casual" dress code, but designed with the same Shape-Ups rolling sole. They feature soft suede panels and smooth leather Mary Jane straps. They utilize an adjustable Velcro closure that allows for a perfect fit. Available in half sizes from 6 to 11, they are just under $100.

Technology

The technology behind Skechers Shape Ups is called negative heel and rocker bottom. The shoes are actually designed to keep you slightly off balance. The heel of your feet will be a little lower than the fit you get with other shoes. And because the shoe's sole is rounded, your muscles need to constantly work to keep you properly balanced.

Benefit

As you work to stay balanced, your muscles get toned. Among the physical benefits the company touts are improved posture, stronger abdominal muscles (since these are core to balance) and firmer thighs, calves and buttock muscles.

So if you're looking for an everyday shoe, Skechers Shape Ups are a great answer. They come in a variety of styles to fit any activity. If you're looking for an exercise shoe, they will support your feet and give you that extra workout with their special sole. Or, if you're just looking for a fashionable shoe you can wear to the office or when you're out on the town, Skecher's Shape-Ups offer comfortable, fashionable footwear that, by the way, also gives your body a good workout. It's a win-win situation for you and your feet. What more could you ask from a shoe?
Barbara Delp is a freelance writer who writes about types of shoes such as Skechers Shape Ups