Toning Shoes That Are Actually Cute!

Although independent research hasn’t verified that all toning shoes do all that they claim to, we were game to try Puma’s new BodyTrain shoe because they’re darn cute. Which can’t be said for all of the shaping shoes out there on the market. And, well, it’s Puma, and traditionally we like what the little mountain lion company puts out.

Once I laced these pretty kicks up, I was happy with them. They’re super lightweight, very comfortable and have a nice slim profile on the foot. They’re also a touch retro in their look, which I like. The rocker-shaped sole helps propel your foot from heel to toe, while still feeling like you have stability around your foot and ankle. It took some getting used to, but I really, really liked wearing them when I walked the dog and while out running errands or doing chores around the house. Wearing them made me want to move more, and I had to focus more on balancing myself when just standing. And it did wonders for my posture—even the hubs noticed.

Puma did have researchers study the shoe and found that they increased muscle activation up to 11 percent more than a traditional walking shoe and up to 18 percent more other toning shoes. While I’m not totally convinced that they toned my tush any more than usual (or any better than some squats or lunges would!), I did love having them on.

The only issue with them? You may like them so much that you turn them into your everyday shoe. Which isn’t a bad thing, unless you hit the gym for some strength-training and the lack of a heel throws you completely off balance in a class and you sorta make a fool of yourself. Not that that happened to me or anything… —Jenn