CategoriesFootwear Health

How Posture Affects Our Daily Life

Posture can slowly affect many things in daily life, as we are always either standing, sitting, moving or laying. It can affect breathing quality, bone health and even cause pain. So, what does proper posture look like in each of these positions?

Standing is possibly one of the most natural things for most people, but if you are having pain, it may be worth analysing the way you stand. It may sound obvious, but you want to stand tall, with your head straight and eyes forward. Straighten everything out, from your legs and arms to, of course, your spine. A common piece of advice for posture is to imagine there’s a string on top of your head, pulling you upwards.

Sitting posture is on the rise with the invention of ergonomics, but we still have a long way to go with office cultures and the way we sit for long periods of time. If you have a job where you look at, for example, a computer for long periods, it is recommended to have the screen parallel with your eye line, so you don’t have to crane your neck up or down uncomfortably. It can be a pain to adjust computer, desk and chair heights but it is ultimately worth it to avoid a lifetime of discomfort, so take some time to find the correct position for you.

Walk with your head held up high is not just a saying, as you walk you may have a habit of looking down at the ground, this can really negatively affect your neck and cause you pain. Keeping your chin up helps keep your spine straight and reduces neck pain, and is also a very classic confidence boost. Another thing you may have heard a lot, but try not to slouch or lean. It puts unnecessary strain on your body. If your walk still doesn’t feel quite right, shrug your shoulders and let them fall back and relax, it may help to do this multiple times when walking for a while.

If there is one thing we have learned in the past few years, it’s the importance of sleep. Poor sleeping posture can cause detrimental effects like sleep apnea, heartburn and reduced circulation. People like to sleep in countless ways and positions, and it can depend a lot on your circumstance, like the size or quality of your bed if you have a partner or even if you sleep with an animal in the bed. But for sleeping posture specifically, it is usually recommended to sleep on your back or sides, but not the stomach. A pillow between the knees isn’t normally how you might imagine falling into dreamland, but many sleep experts recommend it for side sleepers. As for back sleepers, try to keep your arms in similar positions to each so as not to cause strain on your spine.

CategoriesFootwear Health Shoes

The Perfect Cycling Shoe

Cycling is great for many reasons, including weight loss, good for your mental health, and helping with circulation. But having the correct shoes is crucial for cycling as even though it is a low–impact sport having shoes that don’t fit correctly or feel comfortable can really cause issues whilst cycling.

Cycling with Plantar Fasciitis

Many people who suffer from Plantar Fasciitis worry that cycling may worsen their condition but, it has actually been tested and cycling doesn’t make your condition worse, according to Monroe Foot and Ankle Care they said, “activities such as swimming, cycling, yoga or elliptical cardio won’t cause Plantar Fasciitis nor will they make it worse for you if you have it. Make sure to stretch out your calves and feet before and after you exercise. You can do things like curling and relaxing your toes and making circles with your ankles and feet.”

How to prevent pain

To prevent foot pain in general always make sure you are wearing the correct shoes, make sure they are comfortable as uncomfortable shoes automatically make you have sore feet so that is essential, and also is make sure your shoes fit correctly as you don’t want shoes that are too small as they will always suffocate your feet and make your feet feel numb. On the other hand, wearing shoes that are too big for you can cause blisters, this is caused by friction, so always make sure your shoes are fitted correctly and comfortably.

How to prevent foot pain when cycling

  • Wear the correct footwear.
  • Wear insoles
  • Buy correct foot pedals for your bike.
  • Apply ice to your feet to reduce any inflammation of your feet caused by cycling.

Wearing shoes with built-in arch support (orthotics) are also a great option when trying to prevent foot pain, (Cycling or not), arch support helps in many ways firstly being, that they are designed to provide support for your foot arch while distributing weight evenly across the surface of your feet, according to, HoodMWR  “This helps alleviate pain caused by an abnormal weight distribution or flat feet.”

Cycling with Chemin Trainers

If you are wanting some super stylish trainers that include comfort for daily activities or exercise then Uufey Shoes Chemin Orthotic Trainers are a great option as they are super stylish and come in two colour options (Grey and Black).

CategoriesFashion Footwear

Fashion Spotlight: Summer Fashion Trends

So, with summer being around the corner now is the perfect time to start getting your summer wardrobe ready, but it’s not always that simple, right? What are the latest trends? What colours are in this summer? We have got your back, let’s get into what’s trending In summer 22!

Trend 1: The ultimate summer dress

Firstly, let’s start off with a summer classic! A simple white basic dress, there’s no specific style as white dresses come in a variety of choices such as Frill Dresses, Cocktail Dresses, Skater Dresses etc, but in my opinion Frill style is always a winner in the summer, they pair amazingly with pretty much anything whether that’s a pair of sandals for a hot day or a pair of boots and a denim jacket for a breezier summer day! White clothes are also an excellent choice for summer as they reflect most of the sun’s heat and absorb very little of the sun’s heat to keep us cool!

Trend 2: Fancy Flares

Secondly, another style that’s in this summer is flared trousers, as well as the white dresses there are a variety on flared trousers but for summer beach type full leg flare style trousers are defiantly in, paired well with a cute basic white top and some chunky boot style shoes, for example, our ‘Cill Cut – Out Bootie’, and if it’s more of a hotter day maybe pair with some sandals, and of course accessories with a cute bag, as a bag always adds a simple but effective look to an outfit.

Trend 3: Co-Ords

As well as this, another fashion look that is 100% on trend this summer is co-ords weather that’s a trouser co-ord, a skirt co-ord, and gym co-ord, and they are in! A lot of people are going for trouser co-ords and paring with some sandals for an evening time outing this is a great look as its very Suttle but dressy at the same time, you can also dress this type of outfit down with some espadrilles, for example, you could pair our ‘Crown Dual Espadrilles’ the image below is showing our ‘Stone’ option but they do also come in the colour blue! They would be great to pair with the Co-Ord for the daytime, this is a great outfit choice for the summer as it’s super easy to throw together any time of the day!

Trend 4: Classic Denim

So, this outfit is a classic and it is denim shorts! Denim shorts are a great choice for the summer and they are always in trend, you can dress them up or dress them down. So, if were talking a running errands kind of day I would pair denim shorts with a cute basic t-shirt and some trainers, Uufey’s ‘Chemin Grey and Pink Orthotic Trainers’ would go great with this outfit, and you would be super comfy all day!

If you’re wanting more of a dressy kind of vibe say for brunch with the girls or an evening meal you could pair your choice of denim shorts with a nice blouse or maybe a pale pink colour (super summery) and pair with some sandals, once again our ‘Shine Orthotic Sandal’ would be a great pair with this style of outfit as they are super comfortable but very stylish and add that dressy touch to a quite basic outfit, and then of course accessorise!

Be sure to shop for your summer shoes over at Uufey.com, for any occasion with ultimate comfort provided, Uufey Shoes have you covered, be sure to tag us on socials in your pics styling your @Uufeyshoes.

CategoriesFootwear Sustainability

Sustainable Shoes: Small steps to help the environment

This week at Uufey we are looking into the topic of sustainable shoes, and choices we can make to be more environmentally friendly with our footwear. There are numerous solutions and things to try, but it all depends on what you have and what you want to do.

Reuse or repair

First of all, what about using your old shoes? A fairly common practice for old shoes is using them for tasks where they may be damaged or ruined, like painting or DIY projects. Some people use shoes like these for dog walking, taking the backs out of the shoes to make them easier to slip on or other modifications like removing the laces.

Another option is to repair if you are the crafty type with the tools to do so (or know someone who is). You may find the part of your shoe that bothers you is easily replaced, repaired or changed. Scuffs can be buffed out and polished, leather can be treated and stitches can be resown.

Shoe Donations

But the shoe doesn’t always fit. In these cases, it’s best to give them a new home with someone who they will fit. Depending on the pair, you may be able to get some money back by reselling or if you’re feeling charitable, donating them. Options for donating differ depending on your location, but they include the Red Cross and Shoeaid. Usually, people will individually go to their locations to drop off their shoes, but some workplaces organize events where the employees give together. Another option if you have access to a printer is to print off a label and ship them, or a shoe bin may be available near you at a shop. A map of locations and more advice is available here.

Considerations for future purchases

But what about your next pair of shoes? If you want to be a little more environmentally friendly going forward with your shoe purchases, you might want to consider brands that take the environment into account (like us, for example). There are many stages and facets to making shoes that could be very anti-environment, from the tanning of leather to chemical glues. Good alternatives to these processes have been around for a while now, like faux leather and synthetic glue. The challenge is in finding a shoe like this that also fits you comfortably. Luckily, I think we can help you with that.

Protection from wear and tear

When you have your new shoes, how do you keep them that way? There are many options here, like waterproof protection spray, particularly useful in the unpredictable UK. If you feel like going the extra mile, you can regularly polish the leather and even stuff the inside of them when you aren’t using them so they keep their shape. Or maybe something happens to your shoes, for example, they get stained or muddy, use a soft, dry brush to remove loose dirt first (a lot of people use spare toothbrushes for this), then use a mild cleaning solution gently on the upper of your shoe and soles. If you need to clean the laces, a handwash tends to be best, then let them air dry.

CategoriesFootwear Health

Suitable Footwear For Work

Correct footwear is essential when working especially if you’re on your feet for a long period of time, as it has been proven that 79% of retail workers are on their feet for four to ten hours a day. As well as this, health care workers such as nurses can be on their feet up to 12 hours a day which is a lot, so correct footwear really is important.

One of our favourite customer reviews is from Debbie, who is currently a nurse and wears her Uufey Shoes with pride, here’s what she had to say!

“I identified that when I consistently wear unsupportive shoes, I suffer achy arches, joint pain, and other uncomfortable problems. Since trying @uufeyshoes the story is different for me. If your profession involves anything from running alongside a gurney to standing for hours in an operating room, the right shoes are a must. You need shoes that can accommodate your feet (breathable), durable but also lightweight and slip resistance” You can view nurse Debbie’s post’s over on Instagram on @behealthywithdebs.

Suffering from pain due to your workplace

Many workers suffer from aches and pains due to being on their feet for long periods of time. As stated by the CCOHS “standing is a natural human posture and by itself poses no particular health hazard. However, working in a standing position on a regular basis can cause many aches and pains such as sore feet, swelling of the legs, general muscular fatigue, lower back pain, stiffness in the neck.”  Retail workers also face these issues especially as they are often stood in the same position scanning items until they can get their break or go home, so having shoes that are non-slip and comfortable is super essential to everyone especially workers on their feet for long periods of time!

According to TUC studies found that “it is estimated that around 80% of the adult population has some form of foot problem. This can vary from aches and pains to swelling and comes to fungal infections and varicose veins. While not all of these are a result of work activities, a large proportion is.” When choosing footwear, you should, always opt for a pair with arch support.

Preventing and relieving pain

Arch supports evenly distribute weight by putting some of that pressure across your feet versus leaving all the pressure in the heel or the ball of the foot. You can also buy arch support pads, which will help to ease the pain when wearing less supportive shoes.

Relieving foot pain can be a long process, but here are some at-home remedies to try to ease your foot pain,

  • Get a tennis ball to self-massage your feet.
  • Wear supportive shoes.
  • Try soaking your feet in saltwater
  • Try giving yourself breaks during your day and exercise.

You can also purchase some of our foot care accessories we have an 8-piece Plantar Fasciitis relief & Foot Pain Kit which you can use alongside the at-home remedies above.

If you’re finding that nothing is really easing or helping at all with your foot pain or any pain caused by being on your feet all day it may be best to maybe make an appointment with your local GP.

CategoriesFashion Footwear Shoes

Espadrilles: How to style them this summer

So, with summer being upon us now is the time to start getting your summer outfit inspiration and ditch the winter wardrobe, with that being said let’s take a look at Uufey’s ‘Crown Dual espadrilles’ and how to style them.

Firstly, let’s talk casual! So, I would style our ‘Crown Dual Espadrille’ in the colour ‘stone’ with a pair of white jeans a classic and endlessly chic as proven by the autumn/winter 2021 shows, and very much summer vibes would pair perfectly with a summery white top. This look is perfect for daytime outings, running errands or even just as simple as getting to the food shop in! You can also accessorise this look with a simple white handbag to add to this simple but effective look!

If you want to go for more of a dressy vibe, you could dress it up with a white summer dress, or a blue denim jacket and opt for our ‘Blue’ option in the espadrilles. This outfit is perfect for a summery day out at the beach, a summer shopping day or day drinks with the girls! As well as the white jeans white dresses are also very chic and add an elegant look to your outfit and are perfect for your spring/summer wardrobe. As well to this, denim jackets are always a great choice when choosing your summer looks, Jean Jacket pair well with just about anything, especially in the hotter months, they pair great with floral dresses, skinny jeans, and even yoga outfits, you just have to know how to style them.

Another style to pair with our ‘Blue’ option is, some denim shorts, paired with a blue blouse, this outfit would be for a casual day in the sun in the summer maybe a day out at the beach. The blue gives off super beachy vibes with the colour blue representing the sea, this outfit is super casual but the blue blouse adds a dressy feel to the look, so you could even wear it when doing daytime brunching. Although the blue blouse isn’t the exact shade of blue on the espadrilles, they complement each other and it doesn’t look too much! If you wanted to you could also add a denim jacket for the evening, as double denim is totally a look if you style it correctly!

Lastly let’s get some inspiration for our ‘Stone’ option in Uufey’s espadrilles, for a daytime shopping trip our stone espadrilles would match perfect with an all-in-one denim suit, this is perfect as it’s super casual but gives a really classy and boujee effect, it’s super summery and perfect for that time of year as it’s a super airy fabric and really soft, but perfect if it’s more a cooler day.

Chemin-Trainers
CategoriesFashion Footwear Shoes

Running shoes: What to look out for

We at Uufey advocate often for getting outside, for walks and runs. But the most important part of that is having the right footwear, a comfortable pair of running shoes. But why is it so important?

Well, you don’t want to trip of course. And it can increase your chances of developing foot conditions and pains such as plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, bunions and more. Or you could just be sore after every run. So, instead of trying to relieve the symptoms after the fact, how do you get the right pair of shoes in the first place?

Check your shoe size

Size-Guide

First off, your shoe size. Are you completely certain of your current shoe size? Different shoe sizes and measurements apply across the world, and even between different shoemakers the sizes and their actual fit can vary. To make things a little easier, we have a size guide available here, for women, men and children’s sizes.

Finding the perfect pair

Lady Running

Now let’s get into the specifics. Specifically, you! What are the goals that you are going to be accomplishing? Where will you be accomplishing them? The places you’re running, are they flat surfaces, uphill, downhill, muddy or sandy? Keep all these in mind when you’re looking for the perfect shoes.

There are a few extra little things you might want to have, little secrets from those in the know. For example, a little extra toe length in the shoe can be useful for the swelling of the foot, as all feet tend to swell somewhat due to exercise. Also, you may notice running shoes are made from many different materials, like meshes designed for better airflow and keeping the feet cool. Also, you may want seamless shoes, or at least no seams on the upper portion of the shoe, as they can cause blisters.

Chemin-Trainers-Pink

Finally, a little reminder on things necessary for every shoe, like arch support. Having the right support for your foot’s unique arch is very important, as when running, the foot can be under the force of twice your body weight. You may also want to consider the flexibility and firmness of the shoe, firm enough to keep their shape under lots of use, but flexible enough to allow your foot’s natural movements.

If possible, (although it’s a little harder in the digital age) you might want to try your shoes before you commit to them. At the Uufey store, we offer a robust returns policy, because we want people to be happy with their shoes. So, if your shoes are a little big or small, you can return them and get the right size. Our returns policy is available here.

Moisturize diabetic feet
CategoriesFootwear Health

Stress: How foot pain can affect mental health

When having a rough time with anxiety and stress some people suffer from headaches, dizziness, tiredness, low appetite, low moods, or all of the above but as well as this a symptom not many people are aware of is foot pain, here is how stress and anxiety can have an effect on our feet…

Numb and Tingling Feet

Anxiety can cause numbness in many ways, during times of panic, the blood vessels constrict, increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. This reduces blood flow to different parts of the body, hands, and feet in particular which can potentially cause, tingling, numbness, or a cold feeling in the face, hands, arms or feet, this is once again caused by the blood rushing to the important parts of the body that can aide fight or flight.

Cold Feet

Another sign your feet are trying to tell you that you are stressed is cold feet, many people use the expression getting cold feet, when stress is involved, we mean actual cold feet and that you are currently experiencing high stress and anxiety. Cold feet can occur because, hyperventilation causes blood vessels to constrict, which slows down blood flow dramatically. Blood is still flowing into your feet but, because it’s slowed down it causes them to experience less heat and feel colder.

Acne, Eczema, or Psoriasis Breakouts

According to Foot Files “Stress can cause all kinds of skin flare-ups, from extra acne to increased issues with eczema and psoriasis. The reason: Stress can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut and can also cause your body to produce cortisol, which whacks out your hormone levels.”

Ways to relieve your legs from pain and help your mental health…

  • Stretching your legs by doing yoga.
  • Add stretching or walking to your daily routine.
  • Relaxing and taking a warm bath to help relax the muscles.
  • Use a vibration pad or foot wrap.

For remedies to help with foot issues listed above or foot pain in general be sure to check out our Herbal Remedies blog over on Uufey.com or click below!

If you’re an individual who struggles with any of the issues listed above it may be best to visit your GP and receive medical assistance and try some of the self-help strategies listed above.

 

CategoriesFootwear Health

How Do I Know If I Need Orthotics?

Foot pain, soreness and joint strain are serious problems as they affect your wellness and can inhibit your most productive lifestyle. Orthotics are a useful way to aid in pain prevention and management by providing support, cushioning and stability. Orthotics can reduce the likelihood of strain and injury whilst engaging in activity, as well as being a great daily shoe for prevention of future foot conditions. But what is orthotic shoe technology? How does it differ from orthopaedic? How can you know if it can benefit your lifestyle?

Although generally conflated, orthotic and orthopaedic shoes have their differences. Orthopaedic shoes are medical shoes, often custom made for correcting the foot position. Orthotic shoes are more general, and rather than medically correct the foot, will aid in the function and natural alignment of the foot by providing stability, arch support, and cushioning.

Medical intervention with custom orthopaedic shoes may be necessary if more extreme and diagnosed chronic conditions, whereas orthotic shoes may be helpful if you have sensitive feet, flat feet, or feet that are prone to soreness and aches.

Could you benefit from orthotics?

  • Do you have a hard time finding comfortable shoes?
  • Do you have wide feet?
  • Do you have a foot condition such as plantar fasciitis or flat feet?
  • Are you prone to pain in the toes, arch, or ankle?
  • Do you have bunions or callouses?
  • Are your feet sensitive to your activity levels?
  • Have you experienced pain in the knees or hips from misalignment?

If so, orthotic shoes may be beneficial for your lifestyle.

What can orthotics do?

Reduce Pain

Foot pain can be caused by strain, impact stress, and by not having enough or no support. Orthotic footwear helps to align the foot to a natural position to reduce muscle strain from an uncomfortable or unnatural walk or run gait. The muscles in our feet weaken over time, so it’s important to wear the right footwear and engage in exercise designed to strengthen foot muscles. Orthotics also cushion the feet and provide arch support to reduce impact stress that can cause injuries such as hairline fractures and Achilles tendinitis. If you experience pain in your feet, typically after walking or exercise, orthotic footwear may be beneficial for your feet.

Reduce Chances of Injury During Activity

During physical activity, running injuries and strain can occur in the feet after muscle use. This may alter the walk or jogging gait to an unnatural position as the body tried to compensate, leading to further injury. Supportive footwear that absorbs impact stress to the legs and feet can help reduce the likelihood of a strain injury. If you experience aches in your Achilles tendon, arch, or lower legs, these may be signs your activewear shoes are not providing adequate support. It may also indicate that your running posture can be improved, which is something orthotic shoes can help to realign with extended wear.

Aid In the Prevention of Future Foot Conditions

Providing optimum foot alignment, cushioning and support can act as a preventative measure even if you don’t yet have a foot condition but want to reduce the likelihood of developing one. Foot and leg pain are a common ailment in later years, and reduced mobility can have a negative effect on overall health and longevity. By pre-emptively planning the future heath-span of your feet, you may drastically alter your potential wellness later in life. If you find foot pain, strain, or soreness to be an infrequent experience, orthotic footwear could still be beneficial as a preventative measure for further foot health problems, whilst providing maximum comfort in the present.

Correct Posture and Walk Gait

Orthotic shoes are built to aid in the natural alignment and weight distribution of the foot. This means the walk gait, that affects strain, stress impact, and long-term foot function, is optimised. Posture can also affect upper legs, hips, and lower back, so pain in these areas may indicate an incorrect posture. Incorrect posture can be caused by compensating for pain in an isolated area of the foot or leg, muscle tension or weakness, or bad weight and force distribution. If you feel discomfort when walking it may be a symptom of bad posture or misalignment that orthotic shoes can help with.

How can Uufey Shoes be beneficial for your lifestyle?

Uufey shoes are designed with comfort in mind, with built-in orthotic features. Our footwear range includes features such as removable inserts, EVA midsole technology, orthotic footbed, wide fit, deep heel cups, and stability improving soles.

Three Zone Comfort is infused into each and every one of our shoes during the production process, offering you:

  • Stability: reduces muscle strain and helps you to maintain balance.
  • Arch Support: shock-absorbing arch supports are ideal for preventing and treating heal pain and plantar fasciitis.
  • Cushioning: extra support for ultimate comfort and durability.

For more information on how traditional shoe styles can cause strain to your feet, read our blog post here.

Woman holding love balloon
CategoriesFashion Footwear

Love Is In The Pair

The festive season is behind us and the next holiday is here! Holidays are a time to show your love to family and friends, but what about self-love? The importance of self-love cannot be overstated. By keeping yourself happy and healthy, you can live your most proactive life and share love with others. This Valentine’s Day, show yourself some self-love by treating yourself to a fantastic outfit that shows your best self, and with comfortable footwear to match.

Woman drinking glass of wineUufey Shoes are designed for style and comfort, with orthotic insoles and built-in stability. Whether you’re going on a romantic date this Valentine’s Day and need some shine in your step, or spending Valentine’s Day with your friends as Galentines and want to mark the day with a cute outfit, we have the perfect shoes for you.

Friends smiling with heart sunglasses

Shine Sandals

Shine is the highlight of any outfit. If your evening plans are on the fancier side, these sandals are the perfect choice for a luxe look. The 3cm heel gives you an added boost without the discomfort of high heels, and the tie fastening gives stability to walk with confidence. Pair with a white blouse and pink culottes for a stand-out outfit with romantic flair.

Shine orthotic sandals

Kene Chelsea Boots

Add some sparkle into your stride with Kene Chelsea, a full leather Chelsea boot with easy access side panel embedded with a touch of golden sparkle. The supportive low 2cm heel and comfy fur lining are perfect for sensitive feet. Try Kene for a casual glamour aesthetic this Valentine’s Day by pairing with black leather skinny jeans, a light blouse and some golden jewellery for added flair. Endlessly versatile, Kene can take you from all day Galentines celebrating, to a fancy evening dinner with that special someone, all in supreme comfort.

Kene leather chelsea boot

Sarah Zest Ankle Boots

If your Valentine’s Day this year is a more casual occasion, Sarah Zest Ankle Boots in Burgundy are a great way to add some romantic red to your attire. Sarah Zest’s stylish suede upper give this utility style boot a feminine edge whilst supporting foot alignment, and the 3cm block heel gives height and stability. This ankle boot will give you all-day comfort whatever your plans for February 14th. Style with slim blue jeans and a floral print blouse for the perfect look.

Sarah Zest ankle boots

Enjoy reading this content? Read on to find out the hottest trends for 2022.

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