Design Your Own Shoes - Freaky Shoes
Sneakers are extremely versatile and perfect for any occasion. No matter their shape, colour or material, sneakers are the ultimate in sports-casual footwear. Representing the perfect combination of comfort and flexibility, they add a modern allure to any outfit, whether laid-back or formal. Wear them with a single-breasted blazer and classic-cut trousers for easygoing elegance, or with a T-shirt and cuffed jeans for an evergreen, spontaneous look.
This must-have of the male wardrobe defines formal, elegant looks. In addition to their distinctive, classic lines, lace-ups are available in a wide choice of styles, making them perfect throughout the day — from mornings in the office to evening events and weekend outings. Iconic lace-up styles include the Oxford and Derby, which are distinguished by their lacing. Oxfords feature closed lacing, creating a slender silhouette that envelops the foot, while Derbys are defined by open lacing for a more unbound look and feel. These classics have been updated in various materials and styles — including chukka boots, monk straps and brogues — making them perfect in an even greater selection of outfits, adding a touch of elegance to any occasion.
Loafers were originally created as slippers for the British king George VI to wear around the home. They became a popular style of outdoor footwear in the 20th century when American businessmen started to wear them with suits in the 1960s. Today, loafers are a staple of the men’s wardrobe, thanks to their casual-yet-elegant allure. This comfortable item is available in a wide array of styles, including docksiders, penny loafers and tasseled looks. They are a viable alternative to sneakers, as they offer an impeccable look when worn with suits, straight-cut trousers and Bermuda shorts.
Sophisticated details and materials elevate this summer wardrobe staple. No longer just for the beach, men’s sandals are all the rage. Their easygoing allure conveys an image of relaxed comfort, making them naturally perfect for informal, everyday use, even in the city. Leather styles can be paired with wide-legged trousers and linen shirts for a casual, sophisticated look, while minimalist items are perfect for those who prefer a cleaner, classic allure. A pair of evergreen flip-flops are a must-have for long walks at sunset.
As a runner, what you do off the track, road, or trail often has just as big an impact on your race performance as what you do on it. Research shows that regular cross-training—plyo circuits, power lifting sessions, bootcamp-style workout classes, or even cycling—can help make you fitter, stronger, and faster. But first, to really boost those benefits and reduce your risk of injury, you need to swap your regular running shoes for a training-specific style, like the ones below. Keep reading to learn why and how these workout shoes give you the stability, bounce, and support you need—and why your high-mileage pairs probably don’t.
A recent study published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science revealed that runners who completed plyometric workouts twice a week improved their performance—and their power—in just six weeks (or 12 sessions total). And another study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, showed that even well-trained ultramarathon runners had room for improvement: After 12 weeks of incorporating explosive plyo workouts into their routines, they saw a boost in their running economy, or their ability to run faster and longer, while using less energy. For most runners, cross-training adds variability to an all too often monotonous routine. When you log miles without doing anything else, your muscles adapt to the work and, because they’re never pushed beyond the limit they’ve already reached, your strength gains begin to taper. Your progress plateaus. Your risk for overuse injuries increases. But building regular cross-training into your running schedule (especially when it’s done strategically, under the guidance of a coach or trainer) can improve strength, power, speed, and even aid in your recovery.
We looked for cross-training shoes with design elements that help support multi-directional movements, explosive workouts, cardio/strength circuits, and heavy lifting sessions. These features include flexible uppers, cushioned (yet firm where you need it) midsoles, minimal heel-to-toe drops, reinforced heels, extra grip, and protective overlays. Many of these styles are built on lasts that are similar to your favorite running shoes; however, they will also give you the added stability and flexibility necessary to knock out all your cross-training needs.
Created as a smart solution for exercisers who are opting for outdoor workouts rather than studio sessions these days, this cross-training shoe basically provides all the benefits and comfort of the Nano X1, but with a more rugged exterior. It’s low to the ground, lightweight, flexible, and just cushioned enough underfoot for executing both strength and speed-building moves. It also has sturdy rubber lugs on the outsole that offer good grip while performing lunges on your driveway, strides on the trail, or lateral drills in the park. Its upper is covered with a breathable yet durable ripstop fabric that conforms to your foot and helps protect you from rocks and other debris you may encounter mid-sweat. Plus, an anti-microbial lining leaves your feet smelling fresh throughout.
If you’re looking for something to help you rock all those WODs (that’s Workout of the Day for you CrossFit newbies), this newest iteration of the beloved Nano is everything you need and more. Its wide base, lightweight heel clip and low-to-the-ground (aka, minimal heel-to-toe-drop) design provides extra stability for heavy weight days, a super responsive foam midsole adds some protective cushioning for plyo circuits. A soft, flexible, yet tightly woven upper keeps your feet cool and comfy, no matter how intense (or sweaty) your session gets. Strategically placed grooves on the rubber outsole improve grip both when you’re standing still and moving fast in multiple directions, too.
Best Way To Customize ShoesWith the most recent update to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s multi-purpose Project Rock cross-training shoe, there is no battle between man versus machine. This increasingly versatile trainer smartly showcases several of UA’s best technologies, making it an ideal partner for both high intensity interval training and hitting the weight machines. The HOVR foam midsole is wrapped with a tight mesh web for a springier and more responsive feel underfoot. The outsole features UA’s Tribase design: triangle-shaped grooves that anchor your heel and toes while allowing multi-directional flex and solid traction. For added stability, a slimmed-down TPU counter firms up the once-naked heel. Finally, the compression-fit bootie upper, with quarter panel overlays incorporated into the lacing, hugs your foot while you work out. Wear these when you need a stable base for strength training, but you’re also bouncing around between other activities.
These fresh, funky kicks will help you amp up the energy for any workout, whether you’re cross-training at home or at the gym. With a new and improved design, this more sustainable style contains at least 20 percent recycled material by weight. It now features a fully adjustable tongue and a roomier forefoot to help accommodate a wider range of foot types. Designed specifically for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions, they have two Nike Zoom Air units in the forefoot that absorb impact when you’re going all-out jumping, lunging or sprinting, and provide extra cushioning while you actively recover between sets. There’s also a plate that runs from the heel to forefoot, keeping your foot properly positioned for action, and a split sole to support multi-planar movement. A breathable, mesh upper allows you to stay flexible, while a wide, stable heel maintains balance and a cool, speckled rubber tread provides extra traction.
The Mizuno TF-01 aims to enhance performance by using an innovative technology to boost your balance. A flexible grid on the shoe’s outsole corresponds to a layer of pea-sized round pods in its soft, poly-foam midsole. The raised texture from the pods against the bottom of your foot makes you feel more connected to the ground and sends more feedback to your body with every step. An intricate diamond design on the outsole provides greater grip and lateral support for agility training. This lightweight pair of cross-training shoes also has a soft, woven mesh upper and a reinforced heel, so you feel stable and comfortable, no matter what kind of workout you’re doing—or how fast you’re doing it.
This brand new style from Inov-8 feels like a running shoe but performs like a cross-training shoe. Its outsole and midsole are infused with Graphene, a wicked-strong, high-tech material that adds unparalleled durability, stability, and grip for lifting, while a breathable, knit upper and responsive cushioning throughout means extra comfort for jumping and other explosive drills. With a 6mm drop from heel to toe, it offers a little more support than some other more low-profile styles (which can be good or bad, depending on who you ask!), and it features 360-degree protection for rope climbs.
A favorite among elite athletes for a reason, the Legacy Lifter II is dialed in just right to help keep your weight balanced under heavy loads. It has a stiff outsole with a raised heel and heel clip for added stability, a breathable textile upper, and a durable rubber outsole that allows you to maintain grip while you lift. Plus, its laces-strap combo locks down your midfoot, making sure everything is well positioned throughout your cross-training session.
Regardless of how you like to squeeze in your cardio bursts, the Surge is ready to deliver. It’s super-comfy, with a super-light, super-cushy (yes, it’s called “super” for a reason) foam midsole that helps put a spring in your step no matter what activity’s moving you forward. Plus, extra arch support gives you plenty of stability when you switch back to cross-training. This multi-functional shoe has a heel that’s designed specifically to gently clip into rowing machines (which is an incredible at-home workout tool, BTW) and a breathable, reinforced mesh upper that won’t break down against any machine’s straps. A smart rubber tread on the outsole provides the perfect amount of traction for both the treadmill and the studio floor, too.
Design Your Own Shoes - Freaky Shoes
Men are simple and like things to be as uncomplicated as possible – especially when it comes to our wardrobe. For example: if we’re going to the gym, we grab gym shorts and gym shoes. A trip to the beach means swim trunks and sandals. And anything that isn’t a sneaker or a sandal gets classified in the overwhelming category of “dress shoes”, right?
When it comes to the various types of men’s shoes, there’s actually a hierarchy. To put it another way: not all types of dress shoes are created equal. But don’t freak out just yet. We’re here to go over the differences between an Oxford and a Derby, lace-ups and slip-ons and the other types of men’s dress shoes. Presenting the Men’s Shoe Guide: 12 Types of Men’s Shoes.
Kicking off our men’s shoe guide is the mighty Oxford (or a Balmoral for our UK blokes), probably the best-known type of dress shoe. The Oxford is a sleek, formal lace-up shoe identified by it’s “closed” lacing style and the appeal that the shoe is made from one piece of leather. The closed style means that the eyelet flaps on top of the shoe are stitched over the vamp, or the front section of the shoe, restricting the flap’s movement. Oxfords are usually worn in more formal situations, but can also be worn casually with a business suit. You might hear someone call this shoe a “closed front”, but it’s okay, you know they mean Oxford.
Often confused with the Oxford, the Derby is a close shoe relative, but not the same type of men’s shoe. Rather than having a closed lacing system like the Oxford, the Derby sports an open lacing system with the flaps being sewn under the vamp and not connected at front of the shoe. This style of stitching makes the flaps capable of movement and when laced the shoe looks as if it’s broken up into segments (top, side, back, etc.) Originally a sporting shoe, the Derby was used in more relaxed environments like hunting. Although a Derby could be worn in formal settings, it is more casual than an Oxford and could arguably make for a more comfortable, functional fit.
In the U.S., Derby’s and Bluchers are often used interchangeably to describe the open front lace style, but they’re actually two slightly different types of men’s shoes. If you pay close enough attention, you’ll see that Derby’s have the two sides sewn under the vamp, whereas Bluchers connect the two sides onto the vamp. Very similar, but it isn’t quite tomato/tomato.
Ahh, the Chelsea Boot. The favourited boot style of rock icons The Beatles and badass galaxy soldiers in George Lucas’ original Star Wars trilogy (yup, stormtroopers have a thing for Chelsea Boots). That easily makes it one of our favourites types of dress shoes as well. Originated during the Victorian era, but made mainstream cool in the 60s, this snug style of ankle boot is classified by its low heel, fabric tab on its’ backside and slip-on/slip off quality thanks to its elastic side panelling. Chelsea Boots have rounded toes and are versatile enough to be worn with jeans or a suit.
Identified by its wide heel and slip-on capabilities, the Loafer was inspired by mocassins; the shoe of choice for Native Americans. Like Oxfords, Moccasins come in a variety of lace-less styles (tassel, penny loafer, monk strap, etc.). Regardless of style, when it comes to the various types of men’s shoes, Loafers are generally considered to be the most casual. You can throw on a pair of loafers for a night on the dance floor with jeans or pair it with a suit – but we wouldn’t recommend loafers to wear anywhere fancy.
Brogue shoes are a style of Oxford, Blucher or Loafer that come with a perforated design punched along the edge of the leather overlapping the vamp. In short, Brogue is the style of shoes with the holes and thereby it’s own type of men’s dress shoe. But there are also types of Brogues and that’s worth distinguishing further. Hence we’re about to go all types of dress shoes within types of dress shoes on you, Inception-style. Here are the 3 most popular Brogue shoes:
Chukkas are a Derby styled ankle boot. Typically made from calfskin or suede, chukkas are created by using two to three sets of eyelets and an open lacing system to secure the quarters over the tongue of the boot.
Shoes CustomizeDesert Boots are a type of Chukka, but Chukka Boots aren’t always Desert Boots. Confused? Ok, here’s the breakdown. Desert Boots were named after the light brown suede ankle boots the British soldiers wore during the desert campaign in WWII. Although very similar to the Chukka in style the different between Desert Boots and Chukkas is in their sole makeup. Desert Boots have a rubber sole and chukkas have a leather sole. Got it?
The Monk Strap style is defined as any shoe that uses a strap and a buckle instead of rather than laces to secure the foot in the shoe. When there’s a broader strap with two buckles, that’s called a Double Monk. Seems easy enough…
And capping off our men’s shoe guide is the boat shoe, which should be worn…well, on a boat. Before you start having Jay-Z fantasies about galavanting around on your 100-foot yacht, realize that boat shoes aren’t just a fashionable style of shoe, but they actually have a functional purpose. These shoes come equipped with an anti-slip rubber to accommodate walking (or partying) on wet decks. Usually, Boat Shoes (or Deck Shoes) come as Derbies or Bluchers in the Loafer style with the leather shoelaces tying over the tongue of the shoe. The typical Boat Shoe has a leather lace woven through the collar of the shoe and tying over the tongue of the shoe, to secure the shoe more tightly. Pair Boat Shoes with your most fitting yacht wear or pool clothes for a fashionable no-slip grip shoe option.
The average shoe size in the world has changed a lot over the decades. Here’s how the evolution of the average woman’s shoe size looked: at the beginning of the 20th century, the average size was 35, in 1950, it was 36, in 1970, it was 37, and today, the average size of a woman’s shoe is 39. Men’s shoe sizes have also changed a lot. Years ago, the most common sizes among men were 39-40 but today, the average shoe size of a man is 43. So what do you think will happen in 50 or 100 years? According to experts, human height is growing due to healthy nutrition rich in vitamins and minerals. Along with our height, we are also gaining weight which means that our feet have to withstand more weight, so naturally, our feet are growing in size along with our height and weight.
Did you know that, according to the American Orthopaedic Association, women often get the wrong shoe size? What does this mean? You must be wondering how someone could wear the wrong shoe size as it’s very painful and uncomfortable. Even light pressure in the foot can prevent normal blood flow and cause foot deformity. Sometimes, when you first put on a pair of shoes, they seem comfortable and you feel no pressure. But after wearing them for a longer period of time, you start to feel an unpleasant tension in the foot. This proves that your shoes are too small. In order to avoid this, measure your foot first. Also, after purchasing a pair of shoes, wear them at home for a bit and make sure that they’re suitable for you and that they really are comfortable.
With the growing popularity of online stores, consumers are increasingly choosing to conveniently shop online. You can dress up from head to toe without even stepping foot outside. You may have thought that you can only buy a beautiful dress or an elegant handbag online but now, you can also buy shoes without worrying about choosing the wrong size. If you spot some single, most beautiful shoes online, don’t let the fear of choosing the wrong size stop you from buying them! Instead, just measure the length of your foot and hurry to enjoy that new pair of shoes! So how do you reduce the risk of choosing the wrong size and instead get a perfect size? We would like to share our experience with you and give you some of the most important tips which will surely help you choose the correct shoe size when shopping online.