Thursday, February 14, 2008

Winter Boots

Winter Boots

Rain sleet and snow provide the perfect excuse to buy yourself a brand new pair of winter boots It used to be the case that shopping for winter season meant finding the toughest hardiest pair of boots in the store Quite often these boots would also turn out to be the ugliest boots around But these days buying winter boots has become a pleasure rather than a chore No matter what your personal style theres bound to be a pair of boots to suit it Winter boots present the ideal opportunity to change your look Whether you want to be elegant and sophisticated or sexy and serious your winter boots will help you do it. As many choices as there are theres no denying that three particular styles have dominated the fashion scene for boots in recent years

Ugg Boots

Most women have something of a love hate relationship with Uggs Either you are hoping that these furlined suedecovered boots will find there way into the realms of fashion classic or you think the Ugg craze just cant die quick enough. athletic shoes,baby shoes,basketball shoes,black shoes,boots,casual shoes,cheap shoes,clog shoes,comfortable shoes,custom shoes,dance shoes,designer shoes,discount shoes,,ladies footwear,men shoes,reebok shoes,running shoes,sandal shoes,tennis shoe Uggs come from Australia While they look like they were designed for only the harshest of winters theyre actually made to keep your feet at body temperature no matter how hot or cold it gets outside Uggs are designed to be worn with bare feet They were originally a firm favorite of surfers who would wear them when they got out of the water .Now of course Ugg boots are worn by everyone from office workers to celebrities Will we be seeing them on you though

Cowboy Boots

You have to have been living in outer space to have failed to notice the rising popularity of cowboy boots in the past few years Once the province of line dancers and country western singers cowboy boots are now firmly mainstream In fact the look is set to become another fashion classic

Worn with jeans or skirts cowboy boots are one of the more versatile styles of winter boots Unlike Uggs and Mukkluks they can be easily dressed up or down You probably wouldnt wear your Uggs for an evening out but a nice pair of dress cowboy boots will take you anywhere Theyll look as good with skirts and dresses as they do with jeans. Because we put our winter boots through rain snow and other bad weather its important to make an extra effort to maintain them Make sure you always dry your boots out after wear Dont just throw them in the closet until next time or youll end up with damp feet and warped leather If your boots are made of leather your local shoe store will be able to provide various leather treatments designed to keep them supple and waterproof If you live in a part of the world where wet weather is the norm this can be a wise investment Even if your boots arent leather its still important to keep them clean and well maintained Replace soles and heels regularly before winter weather creeps in and destroys them.

Nike Sandals

Nike Sandals

As the brand with a swoosh is one of the most recognizable shoe manufacturers in the world it is no surprise you might be on the hunt for Nike sandals Although the Nike quality is there as mostly an athletic company who focuses on land sports the selection of Nike sandals is rather limitedNike is an American based company with their world headquarters in Beaverton Oregon A sports apparel and shoe brand that formed with a partnership between two running geeks at the University of Oregon Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman This simple beginning piloted thirtythree years later to a worlddominated sports empire The Nike organization extends throughout the world in six continents employing over 24 000 people A global company that manufactures performance products and markets empowering messages it sells its athletic footwear with a mission quoted by Bill Bowerman if you have a body you are an athlete

Phylon

A common material in Nike shoes and sandals phylon is compressed EVA pellets Known for its lightweight and highly responsive material phylon creates an outstanding shoe sole that conforms to the foot provides a spongy resistance and doesnt add significant weight to the shoeThe current assortment of Nike sandals for women offers three types water sandals thongs and slides

The style of cowboy boots is usually pointytoe midcalf height and in leather or snakeskin Upscale stores offer a modern twist on an old classic Cowboy boots can also be sexy boots

Try before you buy whenever possible Boots often fit differently than your work loafers in the same size The pointed toe that most of them have can influence how they wear You dont want to order something for a night out only to have them pinch your toes to misery

Many department stores now carry cowboy boots because of their popularity You can also find them at Westernthemed stores and quite a few online boot stores Just Google cowboy boot fashion

Work Boots

Work Boots

Work boots are often overlooked in lieu of their fashionable counterparts The lines are becoming blurred between work and fashion but well discuss that in the next section Chances are if youre working in construction in the military on a farm or ranch or even just woodworking in the garage youre going to wantand needgood protection on your feet Waterproof leather or waterproof membrane protection keep your feet dry while you workLeather is a popular choice in work boots because of its durability and water resistance Steel toe work boots are often needed for construction jobs and jobs that require you to be around heavy objects Electrical hazard toe boots do just what the name suggestsprotect you from electrical hazards on the job. Insulated work boots are ideal for working in cold wet conditions Theyll keep your feet warm in weather you hate Slipresistant work boots are your answer to slippery floors on the job Military boots are traditionally black leather boots with a leather upper and hard sole Cowboy boots are seen in fashion magazines frequently these days but theyre also still used on the jobAs you can see there are quite a few choices out there for workplace footwear You can buy them in different combinations Need steel toe work boots with electrical hazard protection and slipresistant soles The perfect shoe is out there

Wellington is generally known for their rubber boots but they also have quite the selection of work boots Shop for steel toe leather and even motorcycle boots Timberland said hello to popularity in the 90s and they havent stopped since They also offer waterresistant leather and steel toe boots Check out the description of the steel toe boots with the Pro 24 7 comfort system Whether you need waterproofing insulation steel toe or just leather boots Wolverine has your solution They also have a nice selection of brown and black choices so you can be fashionconscious to a degree while choosing your workwear. Work boots are not just for work Hiking Some work boots are comfortable enough to walk in for days This work boot claims to keep you comfortable through the Himalayas Imagine the comfort they must offer Not planning a trip along a mountain trail any time soon

Womens Sandals

Womens Sandals

When the spring season starts to bloom many shoppers go on a frenzied hunt for inexpensive womens sandals But buying inexpensive footwear doesnt mean you have to skimp on either quality or style Read on as uncovers the best places to purchase fashionable yet inexpensive womens sandals Affordable footwear isnt as common as many people think First of all you need to determine what the word inexpensive means to you Fans of Manolo Blahnik may think that shoes hitting $200 are inexpensive compared to the average $550 they drop on a pair of sandals Likewise a regular Payless shopper may be looking for footwear that falls under $10. Even terms like quality may be relative to the consumer Many shoppers who have not experienced the quality of high fashion footwear by designers such as Prada or even lowerlevel designers like Naturalizer may have a convoluted idea of what defines quality sandals Hence here are a few key points to consider when you are purchasing relatively inexpensive sandals. When you purchase a pair of sandals is the base of the shoe cut adequately to your foot sole Cheap manufacturing will yield an almost snow shoe effect in that the rounded base of the shoe may stick out very noticeably past the length of your foot A well cut shoe should provide minimal visibility of the shoebase allowing your toes to be the real focus of attention Poorly made shoes are lazily crafted and not cut in proper proportion to the foot It costs money to create a shoe that lasts One of the first characteristics of a wellcrafted shoe is tight stitching If youre purchasing sandals for a single event maybe you just want an inexpensive buy that you can toss out the morning after However the majority of people want their cake and the ability to eat it too so theyre hoping to purchase lowpriced shoes that are also high quality. Badly stitched shoes will fall apart and illkempt footwear never looks good especially in the summer when your strappy sandals begin to decay after only three wears. Stitching is one of the more obvious deficiencies in a shoe If youre in the store and surveying a certain type of shoe keep on the lookout for loose threads If one or more of the sizes in that particular style is showing loose threads its more than likely that the pair you purchase will possess those same pesky loose stitches within a few wears The stitching should also be even It takes painstaking care to evenly stitch the best shoes many expensive sandals are made by hand which is why they are built to last Good quality shoes will have an absorbent padded liner This doesnt necessarily mean that the shoe will be comfortable as highdesigner fashion stilettos are rarely comfortablethough they look fabulous and will last a good while However well lined shoes will absorb moisturea particularly nice feature for the summertime A decent sandal will have a firm but flexible sole Whether youre sporting a wedge or a flat the sole of the shoe should be pliable when walking Cheaper materials are not as resilient or flexible

Evening Shoes

Evening Shoes

Refinement comfort and luxury are all top considerations when you are looking to purchase evening shoes for women However very few eyecatching styles can actually boast the virtues of support and comfort which is why so many women are willing to sacrifice safety and ease for style. The idea behind evening shoes for women targets a special be it moderate to upscale occasion Whether youre attending a cocktail party a gala or just a swank dinner at the latest city hot spot your shoes are as integral to your evening attire as your hair style and handbag. The first consideration regarding evening shoes for women should circle around just what is deemed evening appropriate Due to the whimsical nature of the fashion industry everything from platforms to stilettos can safely infiltrate the evening scene However espadrilles corkbased wedge sandals and practically any type of footwear that features a rubber sole are a surefire fashion faux pas Instead when choosing evening shoes for women look for. Celebrities understand that the perfect way to play up their evening attire is to match big brands with bigger brands And to this day there are many designers who rule the red carpet when it comes to evening shoes for women There is barely a woman in America who hasnt heard of Manolo Blahniks masterpieces With his creations featured on many television shows and on the pages of the nations most treasured fashion magazines Manolo Blahnik is the king of high fashion footwear.Blahnik understands that one of the essential features of a quality evening shoe is found in the style of heel This is why the majority of Manolos evening shoes feature a highstiletto heel The heel is sleek slender flawlessly formed and typically adds at least four inches of height to its wearer Extra height creates the appearance of a leaner more refined figure and who would not benefit from this sort of help Furthermore with many styles selling at prices of $1 000 or more Manolos shoes are quite a splurge however as many a starlet would argue theyre well worth it Stuart Weitzman has been outfitting Hollywoods most admired feet for many years His styles are regularly featured on the red carpet and some of his most famous evening shoes for women are often glowing with extravagant crystal embellishments This is because evening time is your time to shine Gone is the dullness of everyday existence With styles that remain rich in metallics crystal and gemstone embellishments and even the occasional sequin number Stuart Weitzman makes a clear distinction between daytime footwear and that which is appropriate for the night scene

Golf Shoes

Golf Shoes

Whether you are an old pro or someone thinking of taking up golf for the first time a good pair of golf shoes will be an essential purchase before you hit the green Are special golf shoes really necessary Wont any old shoes do for a game which after all doesnt require any more physical activity than a gentle walk round the park As any seasoned golfer will tell you the average game of golf requires a lot more walking than youd think Its important to make sure that your feet are supported Just as important is to make sure you dont slip as you perfect your swing For that reason golf shoes have special spikes and extra grips to keep you safeAnother point to bear in mind is the safety of the pitch itself Your golf club will have spent many hours making sure that the green is as smooth and perfect as possible tearing it up with the wrong kind of shoes certainly wont win you many friends back at the club houseThe most important feature of golf shoes is the spikes They prevent you from slipping as you play Most shoes have four spikes in the heel with further spikes on the sole Check out this guide to golf spikes and read more about the effect they have on the ground

There are three different types of spike to choose from

Metal Spikes

As the name suggests metal spikes are the hardest type of spike available and will give the best grip on the green Because they dig so deeply into the ground when you play however not all clubs will welcome them Check your clubs policy before purchasing metal spiked shoes

Rubber Spikes

These are just like the metal spikes but made of rubber or plastic These are the types of shoes youll see most often Theyll still provide a good amount of grip but wont tear up the ground youre walking on

Plastic Spikes

Sometimes referred to as nubs these are the gentlest type of spike available for your golf shoes

Golf Style

Gone are the days when all golf shoes looked the same with tassled fronts and heavily gripped soles These days golf shoes have become much more fashionable and youll find styles which are almost indistinguishable from regular walking or athletic shoes You can even find golf sandals and boots although these are less common. Golf shoes were traditionally made of thick leather which could make them uncomfortable Theyd be especially uncomfortable if they became wet Todays waterproof and breathable styles make a more comfortable alternative and the new sneakerstyle golf shoe is very popular particularly amongst younger golfersThe type of shoe you choose is of course very much up to you Thanks to the wider range of styles available its now quite possible to find a style of shoe that fits with your own personality When shopping for golf shoes youll follow the same principles you would when buying walking shoes They should be a snug fit although not too snug Remember youll be wearing them for longs periods of time Any areas which rub or pinch will feel much worse after a long game of golf When buying your shoes practice walking around in them first If you happen to be buying from a golf store ask to borrow a club to practice your swing Make sure the shoes allow you to move easily with no feelings of discomfort If youll be playing in a wet climate you may also want to make sure you choose a waterproof style to keep your feet protected

Volleyball Shoes

Volleyball Shoes

Volleyball shoes are a necessary purchase for anyone who is thinking of participating in this growing sport Learn more about this specialized footwear and what to look for. Volleyball is one of the fastest growing sports both here in the U S and abroad The popularity of this competitive game has inspired shoe manufacturers to design specific footwear that can go beyond the typical and formerly used basketball court shoe Todays volleyball players are fortunate to have a wide variety of quality supportive athletic goods that were not previously available to enthusiasts. While their appearance is similar to that of basketball shoes or cross trainers volleyball shoes are unique in their own right The main component of the shoe is its rubber outer sole This gum rubber material gives athletes superior traction in gyms and on other indoor floor surfaces Furthermore with the expanding trend of outdoor volleyball some manufacturers have designed a shoe with an outsole specifically tailored for playing on grass and in sand The midsole of the volleyball shoe is also important The technique of the sport requires you to spend a lot of time on the ball of your foot meaning that materials in the front of the foot need to be strong and flexible The midsole is the section of shoe which absorbs shock and it is usually made of some sort of foam Shock absorbers such as gel and air are also included in the midsole cushioning the body from hard impact and injury. Volleyball shoes usually contain a suede upper This can also consist of a meshlike material The upper lightens the shoes weight and allows your feet to breathe You can also purchase volleyball shoes with a built in ankle brace for those who desire extra support Shoe quality and expectations will vary based upon what genre of volleyball you are participating in A high school volleyball team will have different requirements than those of a casual game played in the park on the weekend Additionally a shoe that may be appropriate for high school games may not be up to par when it comes to the pro circuitKaepa also carries a great selection of volleyball shoes that can help you with your decision making process From recreational to competitive they can recommend where to purchase the best volleyball shoes available Not unlike other sports volleyball can be an expensive pastime However your shoes do not have to break the bank Dozens of discount websites have cropped up offering bargains on otherwise pricey footwear Quality is not necessarily compromised since these discounts are often based upon closeout sales and factory clearances regarding the top brands available
If you are new to volleyball or unsure if you want to spend a lot on the sport then these discount websites can be a great resource You can also check at your local high school or recreation center to see if there are any shoes available to rent Many keep extras on hand for physical education classes and for flighty team members making it definitely something worth considering If you are one of the budgetconscience people mentioned above there are plenty of options for you Also if you are not a volleyball enthusiast but know someone who is there are plenty of gift giving choices beyond the shoes Consider an equipment bag made out of mesh fabric Inexpensive and impossibly durable these bags are a great gift for any player that is traveling to games or back and forth from practices Kneepads are great presents for a volleyball player Combine this with a pair of socks and a new ball and you will have the perfect gift arrangement for your favorite athlete No matter where you are in the world of volleyball knowing how to keep your feet safe and comfortable while playing is a great advantage both personally and professionally Protecting your health and the quality of your game will keep you playing for years to come

Walking Shoes

Walking Shoes

The first thing you need to know when youre choosing a new pair of walking shoes is that feet are like fingerprintsno two pairs are the same Its a mistake then to simply buy the brand of walking shoe your best friend wears You also want to avoid ordering your walking shoes online since you cant try them on
The best pair of walking shoes is the pair that fit your feet It really is as simple as that However there are some basic points to take into account when you head out to buy them Many people dont understand why they need a special pair of shoes to walk in We walk every day after all . What is wrong with the shoes we always wear Plenty For example if you try to walk more than a block in your pointytoed stilettos youre going to wish those shoes were anywhere but on your feet Even flats if they dont have the right amount of support and grip can prove treacherous if you try to walk any kind of distance in themIf you take time to buy the right shoes you can avoid blisters bunions corns calluses and other nasty foot problems

Walking shoes keep your body balanced and aligned correctly Unlike high heels which pitch you forward over your center of gravity or flats which encourage you to lean back your walking shoes will encourage you to keep your back straight and your body balanced Your walking shoes will also provide a cushion for your feet as they land on the ground minimizing the impact on your joints. Not only do walking shoes help prevent injury to the spine and joints they also help you get the most out of walking as an exercise

Treadmill Shoes

Are you looking for the best treadmill shoes out there Well youve come to the right place Read on for information regarding some fabulous treadmill shoes that will help you accomplish your best workout yet. There are a ton of styles on the athletic shoe market and with people realizing more and more that their health is not something to be taken for granted its no wonder that the footwear industry has leapt forward to meet popular demand So what do you need to consider when buying the best treadmill shoes for you Take a look at some of these factors. You would be surprised at how many people are walking around with the wrong sized shoe and the same holds true for treadmill shoes Often times especially when in a rush and not in the mood for crowded athletic shoe stores otherwise savvy consumers will scoop up the first pair of running shoes they see If you have any doubt at all about your correct size then get fitted by one of the trained salespeople you see milling around This way youll be certain that youve made the right purchase. This factor cannot be overemphasized especially if running is your activity of choice Cushioning may not seem like much but it can make all the difference in the world to aching heels and arches The right amount of cushioning will support your running stance and because youll have less soreness the day after youll be more likely to step back on the treadmill and stick to your exercise program. A lot of exercise beginners erroneously believe that any old pair of sneakers will do on the treadmill but that just isnt so Just like you wouldnt substitute eggs in a recipe that calls for milk its best to use the appropriate shoe Remember running shoes are specifically designed for running so youll want to take advantage of that kind of technology Decide before going shopping if youre going to be running or doing intervals of running that is walking for five minutes and then running for five There is evidence that interval training helps you torch more calories So share this goal with the salesperson since he or she will be able to direct you to the running shoe that best meets your needs. Nike is a world leader and a wellestablished athletic company Here are a few shoes to help you improve your treadmill run The Air Equalon has an encapsulated heel and a Zoom Air unit that offers a ton of cushioning Nike claims that this shoe will make you feel as if youre running on air You can purchase a pair for around $130 00US. Air Max Moto IV shoe is a steal what with its ability to allow air to circulate within the shoe itself and its enhanced heel sturdiness Of note is that this shoe is built for wider foot sizes and if you happen to have wide feet you know what a relief that can be Keep in mind though that this shoe offers only medium cushioning so take that into consideration when making your purchase All in all there are a ton of great treadmill shoes out there and a lot of established companies to choose from Keep factors like cushioning and arch support in the front of your mind as you shop and youll be flying on the treadmill in no time

Tennis Shoes

Tennis Shoes

As the summer tennis season approaches sales of tennis shoes are about to go through the roof As people get tired of watching Wimbledon they decide to try the sport out for real. What most of the people who head out to the courts this summer wont realize however is that a game of tennis is an excellent allround work out.That is why you owe it to your feet to buy a pair of tennis shoes that will support and look after them as you play.Its one of todays most popular sports but tennis is far from a modern invention Theres evidence that some form of the game was played in Ancient Egypt Early games of tennis were played as part of a religious ceremony by ancient monks It was in sixteenth century France though that the game really took off Real tennis was played indoors with the ball being bounced against the courtyard walls in a game which was very different from the tennis we play today The players footwear we can imagine would also have been very different The sport shoe as we know it wasnt developed until the early nineteenth century Even then it bore little resemblance to the aerodynamic tennis shoes were used to seeing today Todays tennis shoes come in a range of fabrics with canvas leather and vinyl being the most popular Which you choose is really a matter of personal choice all have their advantages and disadvantages While canvas allows the feet to breathe more easily leather offers more support Vinyl will last longer than either of these options When youre buying your first pair of shoes you may want to try out all three to see which kind you prefer. Its very important that you choose a pair of shoes designed specifically for tennis rather than making do with an old pair of running or basketball shoes Tennis players move in very different ways from runners The chase for the ball requires a lot of short sharp movement with sudden turns and stops For this reason tennis shoes have slim smooth soles that allow the player to move around quickly Running shoes on the other hand tend to have very thick soles which arent suited to the sideways movements used in tennis Deck shoes which are often mistaken for tennis shoes because of their similar design lack the cushioning a tennis player needs to protect the joints Like any type of sport shoes tennis shoes are subjected to more wear and tear than your street shoes While a small amount of damage to the shoes you wear to the office may not amount to much a loose sole or other problem with your tennis shoes could cause a nasty fall Try to get into the habit of inspecting your shoes after each game to make sure theyre still safe to wear Because you will be running around getting hot and sweaty during a game of tennis your shoes will also need time to dry out before you wear them again Never put your shoes away damp or the next time you try to wear them you could find a nasty case of mold on the inside of your shoes

Dance Shoes

Dance Shoes

When buying ballet shoes youll want the assistance of a fitter Beware of fitters though who try to put you in a toosmall shoe Quite a few are guilty of that offense Youll want to put them on do a few moves and see how they feel before you walk out of the store with them Ballet dance shoes are available in leather and canvas Base your choice on practicality not looks Men often go with canvas because their weight makes the leather stick to the floor more easily They want to be able to slide so canvas is a better option Lightweight women can usually go for either When youre buying ballet shoes durability is often an important consideration Canvas ballet shoes wont last very long being attacked by the rough fibers of a wooden dance surface Leather shoes in this case are a good investment However if youre practicing and performing on a smooth floor canvas may sound like a better option to you Why Price ease of cleaning and versatility Obviously the canvas shoes will cost quite a bit less than leather You can throw them in the washing machine and they dry faster than leather dance shoes You can also dye them to match your dance clothes Ballet shoes come in splitsole or fullsole but which one you wear will depend on your personal preferences and the types of moves you want to execute Advanced ballerinas may need point shoes as well as regular ballet shoes Jazz shoes fit like ballet shoes only not as tight as pointes They come in splitsole or fullsole Obviously the splitsole dance shoes are easier to point and flex in However if you need additional support theres always the fullsole to give you more stability and protect your feet Jazz dance shoes come in regular shoe form or boot form Boots offer more ankle support for those who need it Both types of jazz shoe have now ventured into elastic territory too So laces arent going to give you a problem if you have to change outfits in a hurry Most jazz shoes come in black or tan leather You can also find other materials like faux leather and canvas though The canvas ones are most likely to come in fun colors Canvas shoes are also much less of a pain for your pocketbook than leather. Tap dancers generally have their own ideas about what makes good dance shoes Most of that comes from the kind of sound they make when they tap The sound is based on the materials used A tap shoe sole could be made of suede or a thicker leather material With soles made of suede and leather slippage can be an issue Youre in luck Catspaw is a rubber piece you can shape to the ball of your dance shoes When youre planning to perform look for some itll save you from embarrassment later. Toe boxes vary from simple and low to roomy and reinforced If youre planning on doing toestands and other complicated tricks you probably want to go with the reinforced toe box with more room for comforts sake Moving side to side during aerobics means you need more stability than an average running shoe offers Look for a shoe with an arch to support your foot from all angles Look for a cross trainer not a walking shoe or a running shoe. Another thing to take into account is shockabsorption Aerobics are much harder on your bones and joints than just walking Look for quality shoes not just the cheapest pair from Payless or WalMart Your workout shoes too are important to skimp on

Wedding Shoes

Wedding Shoes

Wedding shoes are almost as important as your wedding dress In fact to those of us who live by the maxim that you can never have too many shoes bags or accessories they may even be more important Clearly then youll want to make sure that the shoes you wear on your big day are the most beautiful shoes you own Here are a few tips to help you get it right.Given that you are going to be center stage for the duration of your wedding its tempting to go for a pair of killer heels Something most bridestobe fail to realize however is just how much time youll be spending standing up on those killer hellsand just how much its going to hurt. Even if youre used to wearing stilettos remember that your wedding will involve a whole lot of standing walking and dancing Blisters arent a good look and no bride wants to sit out her first dance because her feet hurt Comfortable Shoes then are a must Luckily that doesnt mean you have to go for a style of shoe that your grandmother would wear Theres a wide selection of wedding shoes which wont break your ankles but will still look amazing Kitten heels are a good choice If youre planning on doing a lot of dancing even a pretty pair of pumps can look fabulous on your wedding day The height of your heels will affect more than just the length of your dress it will also affect the way your dress hangs moves and looks When youre trying on dresses or having your dress altered wear your wedding shoes or a pair of shoes with the same height of heel So you have found the perfect pair of wedding shoes but theres just one small problem your shoes are white your dress is gold Worry not There are a number of companies out there which specialize in dying shoes any color of the rainbow Your wedding planner local dressmaker or the store you bought your dress from should be able to point you in the direction of someone who can help You dont have to miss out on those great shoes just because the color isnt quite right.

Motorcycle Boots

Motorcycle Boots

You don’t have to own a bike to appreciate a great pair of motorcycle boots Tough cool and hard wearing these boots can be an excellent and versatile addition to just about any wardrobe Hit the road the streets or even the dance floor and make a true style statement in the ultimate pair of leather boots.Motorcycle boots werent originally designed for fashion of course Their true purpose is to protect the wearers feet that is why these are some of the hardest wearing forms of footwear youre likely to find A good pair of boots should last you years and the older they get the better theyll look Made from tough leather the boots may also have metal or plastic panels in order to provide maximum protection for the feet legs and ankles Heels are low and square to allow you to maneuver the foot correctly.

Short Biker Boots

Anklelength boots dont offer quite as much protection as their longer counterparts but their shorter leg does make them much more flexible and easier to wear Great for shorter trips or beginner bikers the ankles are no higher than 7

Tall Biker Boots

As the name suggests tall biker boots have a much longer leg normally between 9 and 11 inches Many boots have a harness attachment around the ankle of the boot Youll sometimes see this style referred to as the Harness Boot Because of the added protection afforded by the long leg these are the boots of choice for bikers on long road trips

Steel Toe Boots

With a steel toecap designed to protect your feet from falling objects these are the toughest type of motorcycle boots around .Within these three basic categories youll find numerous different styles of boots Many bootmakers now offer a waterproof boot to make sure that your feet are fit for any weather conditions you find on the road Although black is still the most popular color by shopping around its possible to find a variety of different colors and designs. If you have never worn motorcycle boots before they can take a little bit of getting used to For men these may be the first kneehigh boots youve ever worn and youll want to walk around in them for a while before hitting the road in order to get used to them
Your boots should fit snugly neither too tight nor too loose When riding its very important that your boots dont feel loose If the heel appears to slip off when you walk you may need to go down a size for a tighter fit If youre new to biking it could be a good idea to take a more experienced rider with you when youre choosing your first pair of boots They will be able to advise you on fit and help you choose the right style of boot for the type of riding you will be doing

Leather Boots

Leather Boots

Leather boots are classic. They have been around for centuries in one form or another Feel free to stock up on a leather boots collection because theyll be around next year too Not one to have a ton of shoes scattered in the bottom of your closet Feel good about investing in a designer pair Youll get years of wear out of them if you choose a style without too many slouches multiple zippers or funky colors. For fall you are going to be going for muted metallic boots black leather boots wedge heels and platform styles Also check out boots in rich tones of burgundy plum teal rust and brown Theyre the hot colors for fall this year. Since the 1980s styles are coming back so are the ankle boots Here is a pair in black from kenzie Charles David has a fabulous pair of leather boots available in teal cognac and dark brown They have a pointy toe and a scalloped top Theyll all make great additions to your collection this fall Theres nothing hotter for bike wear than a pair of HarleyDavidson motorcycle boots Try these out in brown or bone Normally its a bad idea to try too many trends at once but these boots pull off the wedge heels and slouchy style together beautifully Motorcycle bootswhat else could they be made of The hottest boots for riding on your transportation method of choice are usually leatherBlack boots come in all shapes and sizes but some of the most timeless pairs areyou guessed itleather boots Our men and women in the military also wear leather boots during their days at home and during some deployments They dont have much choice in their footwear when on duty but you can get similar combat style leather boots. Leather boots are easy to keep clean In most cases you just have to wipe them off with a damp cloth and sometimes a bit of moisturizing soap.

Hiking Boots

Hiking Boots

Hiking boots ensure that you receive the best possible outdoor trekking experience Hiking is the perfect way to explore the forest trees rocks and land As humans we all need to connect regularly with nature It is great exercise for the whole family even the dog Make the adventure the most comfortable and meaningful by choosing the appropriate hiking footwear Feet do the hardest work while hiking Every mile of walking is another mile of pounding on your feet Therefore other than a bottle of fresh water your hiking boots are the next most important essential Like many activityrelated footwear the style of your boot should match your style of hiking Your feet get a very different workout whether you are on a light stroll through the trees verses the twenty mile backpack Either way you plan to travel if you are off road a hiking boot is better than a walking shoe sneaker or casual boot Boots have the advantage of design and protection Even on flat city trails if you will be trekking across dirt mud and rocks a hiking boot should be your footwear of choice Boots provide superior traction which is better for hikes on uneven terrain Proper fitting hiking footwear also offers the best in comfort and shelter for your feet At first a sneaker may seem to be the most comfortable due to the flexibility and light weight but after a long hike your feet will actually feel stronger and more refreshed in a sturdy hiking boot that provides the necessary support and security from rocks and hard trails By the simple nature of the boot it wraps your ankle and lower calf This sturdy reminder also ensures solid footing on the trail The perfect fit in hiking footwear is essential Finding the perfect fit on your feet and the fit to your level of activity are equally critical Feet spread and swell during a long walk and the constant up and down hills on uneven terrain can be hard on them The longer the hike and the more weight you carry the sturdier your boots should be Ideally a good pair of hiking boots will be waterproof or treated water resistant They should all have a complete shank preferably steel The treads should be deep and strong While leather boots offer the best in durability and weather resistance some of the best hiking boots are actually made from a combination of synthetics and leather
Socks are as important as the shoes when hiking Avoid full cotton selecting wool or synthetic materials instead Invest in a nice pair of cushioned hiking socks blisterproof socks or create your own sock combination by using a thin undersock with a thicker rag sock on top All three of these sock options provide the extra comfort and the proper level of movement your feet need to prevent blisters Always test your hiking boots at a retail store If you do have to order online make sure they offer a good return policy Better yet shop locally but purchase online Then you can search for the best shoe for your foot and the best price for your pocketbook Always try on a variety of boots that fit your chosen style of hiking Look for a little extra space in the toe for downhill travel and the proper fit around the width and height of the boot with your hiking socks on Then consider trying them on without the socks This is an expert method of looking for those little imperfections that feel fine in the store but come out as you are on a long hike If your bare feet feel comfortable in your boots chances are they are the perfect ones for you Once you have found your perfect boots wear them around the house for a few days to break them in and make sure it is the right fit Then take them on a few trial run hikes that are shorter and easier than your usual adventure Once they have passed all these tests they are ready for a serious trip

Ski Boots

Ski Boots

If you are thinking of hitting the piste this year a good pair of ski boots will be one of the first purchases you will make While most resorts allow you to rent equipment such as boots and skis for the duration of your stay many skiers prefer to bring their own Each boot is different and everyone has their own preference as to the type of ski boot they prefer.There are three basic types of ski boots available for you to choose from rear mid and front entry As the names suggest these styles differ only in how you put them on Rear entry boots offer the easiest access simply pop a catch on the back of the boot and slide your foot it Rear entry boots however are becoming less common Most manufacturers have stopped making them in favor of the stronger and more versatile front entry boots If rear entry ski boots are your preference however you may be able to find a pair second hand on eBay Front entry boots reach further up the ankle than rearentries They are fastened to the front with four buckles over a thick padded tongue This is the type of boot preferred by serious skiers It is generally said to offer the best performance At the midway point between rear and front entry ski boots youll find mid entry boots Mid entry boots have an opening to the front and back of the boot They are often chosen by beginners who arent quite ready to move onto a front entry boot All ski boots have a tough outer shell and a soft removable sock Different manufacturers sell boots in different colors and patterns However fit is far more important than fashion when youre heading out for a day on the slopes Ski boots are the one type of boots you really dont want to come loose while youre wearing them For that reason the fitting of the boots is extremely important Your boots should hold your foot firmly in place and be rigid enough to support your ankle but not so rigid that you can barely move

Rain Boots

Rain Boots

Rain boots have only been around for around 200 years They were made popular by one Lord Wellington in the early 1800s Lord Wellington had his tall Hessian bootsthat were all the rage for men at the timeadapted so that they were tighter with fewer trimmings The boots were called Wellingtons a name they still bear to this day It wasnt until a few decades later in the 1850s that the first pair of Wellingtons made from rubber were created These boots were a hit with people who were tired of walking around with wet feet after a rain particularly farmers who spent long days in soggy fields What should you expect from this type of boot Most rain boots are made from rubber or modern man made materials like Goretex which help to keep water out of the boot and feet dry Some boots have a cotton lining to soak up water that might make it into the boot Many rain boots include a tab a the back of the boot to help the wearer pull it on while others employ handles on each side of the boot Many boots have a tread on the sole to keep girls from sliding and falling on slippery wet surfaces There was a time when girls rain boots came in just one or two colors but those days are gone For years rain boots were functional and manufacturers gave little thought to their appearance Luckily todays girls can choose from all sorts of fun pretty or wild and crazy designs to express their personalities Girls who adore their Crocs shoes might go crazy over a pair of Crocs rain boots while a girl who loves her dog might opt for some adorable Dalmatian rain boots Does she like ladybugs Then a pair of bright red ladybug boots might be just the thing From polka dots to monkeys hearts to skulls theres bound to be a rain boot that suits your favorite girl. Nike shoes are amongst the most dependable footwear in the sports industry They are preferred by professional athletes as well as nonchalant amateurs but what makes Nike shoes such a powergiant in footwear is the companys commitment to quality accompanied by heavy marketing campaigns. The story behind Nike shoes is not quite a rags to riches tale but it is equally dramatic In 1962 Philip H Knight upon finishing his graduate education at the Stanford Business School headed for Japan to seek his fortune with Tiger Shoes Though he had no product behind him Knight gave the president of this company the impression that he was an American athletic equipment distributor. Knights clever ploy soon had him selling shoes labeled Blue Ribbon Sports out of the back of his truck at sporting events Tired of this endeavor Knight soon began producing his own athletic line which he named Nike During the first year of Nike sales however Knight sold only $8 000 worth of shoesraking in a mere $250 profitAfter consulting his old high school coach Bill Bowerman for helpful tips the idea to place traction on the bottom of the shoes resulted in the creation of some seriously unique athletic shoes This skyrocketed the Nike Waffle Trainer into popularity By 1979 the Nike Company became established as the most popular shoe company in the entire world. Keeping up with a competitive market is difficult hence Nike has maintained a high profile by creating specialized shoes for a variety of sports activities and by acquiring big name athletes like Michael Jordon to endorse its footwear Using very shrewd advertising techniques Nike shoes has managed to remain at the top as a multibillion dollar footwear entity

When it comes to basketball trainers Nike has always had the limelight But Nike footwear extends far beyond the realm of Air Jordans In fact Nike shoes have been manufactured for sports like

Football
Soccer
Running
Skateboarding
Golf
Cycling
Softball

More importantly what makes Nike such a trusted name in the athletic industry is the specialized technology that is included in the manufacturing of all Nike shoes.Nike is not a name that targets the creation of random and simple footwear these shoes are geared to help you run faster and more safely to promote traction to aid jumping and to streamline rapid and sharp maneuvers No matter what sport you are participating in Nike has most likely pieced together a shoe that is designed to enhance your athletic performance Is this technology just overlyexposed hype or is there some truth to the claims The fact that Nike shoes are still worn by so many professional competitive athletes who all want to remain at the top of their game is probably a good indication that the heavy detail that goes into Nike shoes is most likely a worthwhile endeavor Nike also manufactures its shoes in gender specific lines distinguishing between mens and womens footwear When you purchase certain items from the online Nike store you are also able to customize the external design of your shoe This is handy for athletes who wish to match their shoes to their uniform

Snow Boots

Snow Boots

At their essence snow boots are sturdy water resistant boots with an added layer of warmth They can be casual or technical depending on your needs There are versions for men women unisex and children even dogs They can be boots you wear on a snowy walk to the bus stop or kept on your feet all day Some need snow boots for hard outside shoveling while others have only a use for them for a day at the ski slopes Snow boots are made from a variety of materials either synthetic or animal based The construction of the boot will greatly affect its weight care and warmth While wool and leather are standard in the boot industry and provide some of the best natural warmth they can make for a heavier and higher maintenance shoe Many of the greatest advancements of boot technology have been in the synthetic materials Products such as GoreTex revolutionized the boot market providing a shoe that is completely waterproof breathable and lighterweight The sole of a winter boot is also of key importance For those who need a boot for hardcore outdoor uses some are available with ice cleats or serious hiking treads For the casual use a lighterweight flat rubber sole is ideal to keep the ice and snow from settling into the treads After ski boots are often the most casual type available as they are mostly employed as foot spas for those cold tired feet Snow hiking boots are great for snowshoeing a sport that is growing in popularity Moon boots are a type of snow boot that emerged years ago but still maintains some popularity due to their extremely lightweight warmth like walking on the moon If you have kids who play outdoors in the winter investing in a good pair of boots is particularly beneficial Childrens systems are not as efficient as adults and their extremities are more susceptible to severe temperatures Even if it only occasionally snows at your home kids should always use a good pair of winter boots when playing outside during a cold winter When buying snow boots the first step is to evaluate your true needs Consider the following before stepping out the door or turning on the computer to go shopping Are snow boots something you only need for the occasional trip to the mountains or is it snow packed and twentybelow all winter long Many brands now offer temperature ratings for their boots to give you an idea of how protective they are Use these as a guide to match your climates requirements Some environments are cold and dry with occasional snow and others have loads of rain and ice Most snow boots are either waterresistant waterproof or treated animal skin While those Ugg boots may make a great fashion statement they can be really impractical in the cold rainy Northwest Keep your winter moisture content in mind while selecting your boots Both in terms of time and money some boots are more of an investment than others Leather boots may be a stylish option but they do require more tender loving care The serious technical boots are usually the most expensive So even if they make you look like a true mountain man they may be an impractical option if you live in Manhattan Are these snow boots an everyday necessity or only for occasional use Will they be utilized both indoors and outdoors Will you use them when you travel These sorts of questions will help you chose an appropriate style boot the ideal fabrics and design A particularly key component of a snow boot is the top Depending on how deep the snow youll want the appropriate height and security In order to be an effective boot in the snow it will at least need to be taller than your ankle If you will be facing blizzards or deep snow you will need boots up to your knees with gaiters or elastic tops to keep the snow out of the boot How do you want your boot to attach to your foot Are you a slip on quickly and run out to get the paper kind of person or do you need the tightness of laces for active snow sports Another consideration is the liner in the boot Removable liners are available that can transition a standard boot into a snow boot at will They also can be removed to help the boot dry after a particularly wet day outside These types of liners are great for kids so you dont have to spend so much money buying a new boot each season

Military Boots

Military Boots

Military boots are not all just black combat boots that enlisted men and women as well as gothic style teenagers wear They can be made from mesh They can be camel colored In some cases they have straps instead of shoelaces Some even have metal plates in the sole to protect soldiers from traps
Any of the boots below have the option of having a steel toe The steel toe option is great for those working with heavy or sharp objects just like in a construction or factory environment These are the boots that probably come to mind when you hear the words military boots Theyre the traditional black boots with an all leather upper and hard sole The soles actually so hard and uncomfortable it takes a few weeks after they are issued to get them broken in These are the generic combat boots weve all seen and heard of
With the help of insoles this type of military boots can actually become rather comfortable Make sure if youre actually going into basic training that you learn to shine them before you get there Theyll expect them to be perfect there and cause you great grief if you arent getting it right Those babies better shine
Jungle Boots are actually made from very little leather Usually the toe and heel are the only leather parts The rest of the shoes upper is generally made from mesh This offers a ventilation system in hot climates plus the ability for your socks and feet to dry easily in a wet environment These military boots were created for the soldiers during Vietnam They have a steel plate installed in the sole which was originally to protect the soldiers from punji stake traps in the jungles of Vietnam Now however the jungle boots for frontline men and women have changed from the black used in the Vietnam War to a lighter tan color
The jungle boot style can be made into a cold weather boot The mesh is still intact but theres a layer of insulation and moisturewicking material between the outside of the boot and your socks

Jump Boots of the military boots world are made for jumping from planes These shoes lace up and offer excellent ankle support compared to other types For an idea of what jump boots look like think of the shoes popular among the gothic youth Theyre wearing highly modified versions of the jump boot These are also the military boots frequently worn by military personnel in parades .Jump boots are available in cold weather and desert versions which come complete with additional insulation They are available in tan suede desert or black leather mesh cold weather. Tanker Boots have leather straps that wrap around the ankle area These are for men who spend quite a bit of time driving tanks as the name suggests There are pros and cons to this type of military boots Theyre easier to remove and allow for better circulation than their eyelet counterparts They also provide excellent protection against chemicals The downside however is the lack of ankle support they provide.