Are you familiar with MBT sneakers? They’re those funny-looking (and expensive, they run about $250) shoes that are designed to keep you fit as you walk. MBT stands for Masai Barefoot Technology, and the premise behind the shoe is that it improves your posture and gait and reduces joint stress, while simultaneously activating the butt and thigh muscles. I think the name stems from research done on the Masai tribe of Africa; they’re a semi-nomadic tribe, so I guess they know a thing or two about walking, and evidently the shoe mimics their barefoot gait. Anyway, MBT shoes made a splash on the fitness industry, with celebs like Debra Messing endorsing their effectiveness. 

Naturally, the success of the MBT has spawned an entire new shoe category. Victoria’s Secret sells the Walkstar sandal, which is much more affordable ($49.95), and in my opinion, a lot cuter. It makes the same basic claims as the MBT shoe: reduced joint pain, greater muscle activation and tone, and improved posture.

And finally, there is the Shape-Up Shoe, which I keep seeing on those weird advertising pages in the back of magazines. Again, we have the same fitness premise, this time in a truly ugly sandal. These are the least expensive ($39.99), but they might also be the cheapest, if you know what I mean. In addition to the flip-flop, they also come in Croc style and a very weird boot. To be fair, I’ve never seen them in person, so they might be great. They just seem funny to me.

I’ve never tried any of these fitness shoes, but I’d like to. I’d definitely go the VS route; I like the look and the price is right!