About FitFlop Sandals

Recently featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show as “Oprah's Top Picks for the Summer”, FitFlop Sandals will do much more than keep your feet cool this summer. FitFlop Sandals use patent-pending micro-wobbleboard technology, to give you a workout while you walk by challenging the support and balance muscles of the foot and leg. In doing so, FitFlops make it easier to stay in shape. Just throw them on while you're running errands, walking to work, or working around your house.

The Science Behind FitFlops

The secret to their success is that FitFlops challenge hard to reach muscles more. In independent University testing, FitFlops have been shown to trigger increase gluteal muscle response, increased hamstring response, increase rectus femoris (thigh) response and increased calf muscle response.

Thus, every step you take in your FitFlops helps tone and trim your legs. Studies at Salford University by Dr. Philip Graham-Smith and Richard Jones have shown that the FitFlop midsole extends the amount of time that the slow twitch* muscles are engaged during each step (by approximately 10-12%). So just by wearing a pair of FitFlops you'll get more exercise while doing just exactly what you're normally doing. (*slow twitch muscles produce energy by converting fats into energy aerobically). FitFlops also work your butt muscles more by increasing the amount of time that the gluteus maximus muscle is 'activated' during every single step.

The Comfort of FitFlop Sandals

Walking in FitFlops is like walking barefoot, but a little bit better. According to a study done at the University of Salford in Manchester , UK , the FitFlop wearer's gait is very similar to that of a barefoot walker, but the added cushion provided by the EVA midsole helps reduce joint strain and absorb shock. In fact, several FitFlop wearers have already reported relief from back pain after a few days of wearing them.

A FitFlop Warning

Most first-time FitFlop wearers report feeling their muscles working more, while 'fitter' wearers feedback has been more toward great comfort and cushion. One woman reported feeling like she'd had a 'bum-blasting' workout after a half an hour of FitFlop-shod walking. Regardless, the FitFlop has the potential to increase muscle activity duration and workload. So like all exercise regimes, the FitFlop should be used progressively to avoid muscle soreness and fatigue. Persons with orthotic conditions and pregnant women should consult their doctor before using FitFlops.