Friday, December 28, 2012

Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles

If you are anything like me, you have a favorite pair of sneakers that are totally worn in and you could live in them.  They mold to your feet and fit perfectly, except for one huge problem... they have absolutely no support!  So wearing them for any length of time means tired legs and sore arches.  That's why I was so thrilled when I was asked to review the Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles.  

I took the insoles out of my favorite pair of New Balance.  It was easy to cut the Zero-G's to the correct size by using my old insoles as a guide.  I put the them in my shoes and off I went.  At first, I forgot I had changed them, but at the end of a long first day, I noticed my feet weren't as tired as they typically get with all the running around I do. 

I decided that a fair test of the insoles to see what I noticed would be 30 days.  So for the last month I have worn my sneakers with the Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles in them.  I wasn't expecting much, because so many insoles make amazing claims and yet deliver minimal results, but I was pleasantly surprised.  I am happy to tell you that what I noticed was less foot fatigue and less back strain at the end of the day each day.  Instead of taking off my shoes at night and wanting to massage my aching arches, my feet felt less strained - it wasn't miraculous, but it was definitely noticeable!   Another thing I noticed over the month was that my lower back was less sore at the end of the day.  I can't say for sure it was due to the insoles, but it was the only specific change I know I made and assuming my feet weren't taking as much abuse, it makes sense that it would relieve some pressure on my back.  

Overall, I was very pleased with my test of the Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles and I can recommend them. You can find them at online at summit-brands.com.
The Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles has the following attributes:
  • Impact Pad -- High density viscoelastic substrate absorbs impact more than 30% better than normal insoles
  • Rigid arch and heel support
  • Rebound-Polymer gel pad for more forward movement
  • Provides heel lock which can reduce blister
In addition to the insoles I tested, this company also makes a new premium insole is called Free Flex specifically designed for minimalist shoes like the Nike Free, Reebok Real Flex, etc. You may have read some reviews of these shoes on this blog by our other bloggers in previous posts.  The new Free Flex insole by Smart Shoe is a first of its kind product that can significantly upgrade the insole that comes with a minimalist shoe. Until now, there have been no premium insoles for such shoes. Free Flex are sold at Target Stores, as well as online at summit-brands.com.

The Free Flex has the following attributes new for minimalist shoes:
  • Flexing in all directions to mirror the shoe's movement
  • Floating arch for balanced support
  • Raised posterior ridge providing extra lateral support
  • Duron material provides faster shock attenuation that the shoes original insoles (improved shock absorption and better rebound)
  • Moisture wicking top fabric
So if you've been thinking about insoles - whether for your regular running shoes or minimalist shoes, these are a great option! 

Please note - to conduct this review and evaluate the product I received a complimentary pair of Zero-G Ultra Light Sport Insoles; this did not influence my review in any way.  All opinions stated are my own.  


Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Geek Chic: An Ironically Fashionable Christmas



If you’re still looking for Christmas gifts for the Geek in your life, then look no further than the “Silly Socks” range at PresentsForMen.co.uk.

  These crazy, geeky socks scream ironic fashion and “geek chic” which is huge in London right now. 


 






There are two versions of the “Silly Socks” out at the moment, these representing Sandals and baseball boots respectively. You can wear these with shoes, but why would you?

If you want to brighten up a boring day in the office, you could try these crazy and colourful socks.



The Sock Exchange gift set contains Six odd socks, all of which have incredible neon patterns on, which can be hidden below the shoe line whilst at work. These make a great talking point and can turn a dull day in the office upside down – plus if you’re in a rush (or just lazy) because the socks are all odd, it really doesn’t matter which ones you pick up! 


If you’re stuck for a gift for your office Secret Santa or need to get your fashion conscious “Geek Chic” boyfriend a novelty gift, then you can’t really go wrong with these fabulous, funky socks.

Find these socks and more on PresentsForMen.co.uk

This is a guest post from James Newhouse, a previous contributor to our blog. All images are property of PresentsForMen.co.uk


Friday, December 7, 2012

New Styles Of Ugg Boots Hit The Stores

More from our regular contributor Claire...


With the winter already here, I am sure many of you will be preparing your wardrobes for the cold weather. Snow, rain, ice and dropping temperatures all call for cost and comfortable clothing. But many feel this is not a great look and that they have to compromise on style during the winter months. Well not any more, as there are so many different winter styles available these days. However you want to dress this season, there is sure to be something for you that will keep you toasty this winter.

Ugg is a very popular choice when it comes to dressing for the winter weather. Their comfortable, cozy, warming footwear are the ideal boots for the coming season. Plus the designer label has a new range of fresh designs in their collection this year. Check out some of their brand new styles below. 


These Bomber Jacket Black Classic Short Dylyn Stud Boots are perfect for those who like to add a little bit of edge to their look, but also want to stay warm this winter.


The Espresso Maddi Buckle Calf Boot are great for those who have a lot of snow trekking to do. These Uggs will keep your feet protected from the chills of winter. 




Add some animalistic style to your look with these Cheetah and Zebra Classic Short Boots from Ugg. A great alternative to the basic designs, these will certainly add some unique style to your look this winter. 



Add some sparkle to your look with these Bailey Bling UggBoots. A great way of injecting some bling into a cold and frosty day.

So why not stay fashionable and cosy this winter in some of the latest boots from Ugg. 

Claire Hunter, enjoys writing about everything and anything. Her favourite topic, and one she writes about the most, is fashion but she also likes to write about home wares, gadgets, technology, gift ideas, food and culinary. She hopes you enjoy reading her blog post.