I’ve seen the ads. I’ve heard the chatter. But not until a few days ago did I actually see someone “rocking” to work. Since then I’ve seen quite a few others. I’m afraid it’s actually going to catch on. Yes folks, I’m talking about Masai Barefoot Technology shoes (MBTs). Designed to simulate the feeling of walking barefoot on sand and mimic the stride of the Masai tribe of Tanzania, the boat shaped soles distribute pressure evenly along the entire foot.
MBTs are not cheap. In Canada, various styles of the physiological shoe retail between $290 – $355. At those prices you would completely expect them to come with an instruction manual and a DVD (which they do). Among the lengthy list of benefits they claim, is improved posture, increased caloric consumption and muscle toning. As with any cellulite busting device, celebs have jumped on board. US Weekly reported that Katherine Heigl and Jennifer Love Hewitt have been seen wearing what’s been touted as “Hollywood’s Butt-Firming Sneakers”.
Okay, okay, so they’re good for us, but if you’ve heard of MBTs you will probably know they are universally considered the world’s ugliest shoe. Think of them as the Buckley’s cough syrup of the shoe world (you know, it tastes awful and it works). Available in casual, sport, sandal and professional styles – the MBTs have come a long way, but I’m afraid not far enough. Can you really see the Wall Streeters (or the Bay Streeters for that matter) of the world wearing the “Wall Street”?
MBTs are surprisingly not the only brand of shoes that rock. Earth Shoes work on the same premise but at a quick glance look more like an ordinary shoe. However, if you do decide that rocking is the new walking, buy the MBTs – at least they clearly look like orthopaedic contraptions. Go big or go home. Wearing a less odd looking version, like the Earth Shoe, would just look like you have very bad taste.
As for me, I’m just going to go to the gym.
Terry Chan is a Canadian lawyer practicing finance law in London. She writes every Friday on style and fashion, perfectly aware that the next big thing is not looking like a lawyer.