One purchase that I generally spend more than my usual amount of time researching and mulling over is shoes, for two very important reasons: I have bad knees, and I walk a LOT (it's my favourite de-stress method, and if I can avoid other modes of transport, I'll walk the distance, even if it takes me a few hours). So at least where everyday shoes are concerned, quality is extremely important to me, as cheap shoes tend to fall apart on my feet rather quickly and leave me in a considerable amount of pain.

What they allegedly do:

A lot of us are probably aware of the Shape-ups promise: they're supposed to improve your posture, aid circulation, and help to firm up your leg, buttock and abdominal areas. The shoes even come with a little informational booklet on all their benefits and an exercise DVD that's currently gathering dust in my closet as I can't bother to check it out.

Appearance and price:

I got the all-black, leather version, and I'm very happy with the way they look (even if the effect is essentially reminiscent of platform trainers, something which can lead to unfortunate 90s flashbacks for some). The thick, curved rubber sole can give the shoes a rather clunky effect, especially on less than dainty sizes like my own UK 6 1/2, but personally I like the look, and play it down by wearing them with bootcut or straight trousers (they do look a bit silly with skinny jeans). I got mine for the equivalent of 80 pounds, but you can find them for as cheap as 60, which for the quality is a steal.

Actually using the product:

I have no idea whether they've toned up my backside or anything else, anymore than going to the gym or generally walking around a lot do. What I do know is that since I started regularly wearing them, my knee pain has all but disappeared, an effect that even happens on days where I deal with a lot of stairs, which are normally a killer. The rubber sole absorbs impact really well, so your actual muscles will start hurting far sooner than your feet/joints/knees will, and after a few hours' walk, you do start feeling your buttocks and thighs working, but whether that's because of the shoe's design or because they allow you to walk for longer is anybody's guess. I should also note that I practically haven't taken them off since buying them last summer, and beyond some slight visual wear and tear, they're as in good of a shape as when I bought them.

Would I reccomend it:

YES! The bottom line is: they make walking easier and more comfortable, and generally walking around more can only be beneficial to one's health and fitness levels. I consider it the best purchase I've ever made, and have even bought their boot and sandal models (not as effective as the trainers, but still great for my knees).