Fabulous FitFlop Boots | The 2011 Autumn Winter Collection

Style lovers, footwear fanatics and lovers of comfortable feet, you are in for a treat with these great new season FitFlop™ styles. Not only do they positively ooze style, but they are incredibly comfortable, enhance posture, ease joint strain and reach the parts of the lower body that other shoes will not touch!

Skip the preamble if you can't wait to see the exceptional new season FitFlop™ styles. I won't blame you, they are really something special this year.

They look absolutely great on girls and positively mental on men. Who says healthy footwear can't be exquisitely stylish?

Just one thing, this hub does not include all the great styles which have come before, just the new season FitFlop™ styles - all the old favourites are still available and you can view them on my 2010 FitFlop™ Boots Hub, but with these great new styles, its clearly time for a change!

FitFlop™ started life producing sandals which offered more of a workout from walking, with the brand specifically created to target excess weight and improving the shape of the lower legs. The brand is one of the small minority of healthy footwear which is backed up with a fair amount of research* as to its benefits, with studies conducted by highly creditable sources. In addition to that, ever since their release back in 2007 the customer feedback from the footwear is on the whole, overwhelmingly positive.

The FitFlop™ range features the Microwobbleboard™ midsole which helps to increase not just the range of muscle activity throughout the lower body, but also prolongs the length of time that the muscles remain activated throughout the stride. FitFlop™ propose that this relates to improved toning. Many of its customers agree that this is in fact the case.

Since the launch of the footwear brand there have been a wealth of other health benefits associated with the shoes, most notably the shoes and boots help to improve the posture, and ease the pain and strain on the joints. This has since been explored by FitFlop™, and has been the subject of a few key case studies** which have shown that it is indeed the case when put to the test in the lab.

Whilst the FitFlop™ brand started out first and foremost as a healthy lifestyle shoe which could activate the muscles more when walking, it is being increasingly chosen for its chic styling, which makes the brand stand out from the other footwear in the same genre. Even at the launch of the first FitFlop™; the Walkstar™, it was commended on its style. The brand has won high praise for its designs, which are often copied by other big name manufacturers but never beaten. Take Skechers Tone Ups for example, which are uncannily similar to the FitFlop™ in style. They may look similar, but in terms of quality, originality and comfort, they are not in the same class.

What sets FitFlop™ aside from the competition is its continuous development of the line, and its exceptionally stylish shoes. The British manufacturer prides itself on cutting edge style, and with producing footwear that is highly attractive and that people want to wear for the design alone, with the wellness benefits being an added plus.

This year for the autumn and winter collection, FitFlop™ has managed to produce a selection of new styles which would be sure to sell exceptionally well, even if they did not have the Microwobbleboard™ midsole and wellness benefits. The latest styles are superb, and include an ultra stylish selection of boots, with great new fashionable models of trainers to suit all tastes, and young and old alike. The quality of FitFlop™ boots and shoes is second to none, with the brand producing their range using only the highest quality materials, with sumptuous suede, rich leather, warm and cosy sheepskin and high quality fabrics.

The result is a range of footwear which can compete with any casual and smart casual footwear brand for the design alone, and with the wellness benefits it makes FitFlop™ boots a winning combination. One other factor which makes FitFlop™ a highly desirable choice is the comfort. The soft and well cushioned midsole which activates the muscles, is also exceptionally comfortable underfoot.; something which virtually all purchasers agree on.

If you are considering purchasing FitFlop™ boots, trainers or sandals based on the toning properties and wellness benefits, you will not be alone, with the shoes and boots having sold by the million since their launch. They are probably the most beneficial brand of footwear of this type, and have a wealth of positive feedback. Choose FitFlop™ for the comfort, muscle activation or simply for the style and you should be very happy with your purchase.

However, if you are expecting to get a lower body that will be the envy of all your friends, and turn your bottom and legs into svelte perfection you will probably be disappointed, as that will only come from a gym or sports workout. However, the feedback for the muscle toning properties of the shoes is good, just don't expect miracles.

The downside, negatives, and reasons for not buying these shoes? There is only one in my opinion, and that is the price. But if you want the highest quality footwear on your feet, you will need to dig deeper into your pockets than with other brands of wellness shoe. But since these shoes and boots are not simply toning shoes, and are proper shoes with a had wearing design and high quality construction it is unfair to compare them to other brands of that ilk. Compared to casual trendy footwear brands, the price is actually pretty reasonable.

So what does this season have in store for FitFlop™ fanatics? Take a look at this seasons big new arrivals and judge for yourself?

The new season FitFlop™ Autumn Winter collection has been eagerly awaited by FitFlop™ fans, and they will certainly not be disappointed.Previous years collections have focused on new colour choices with the occasional new model, but this year a plethora of new styles added to the range, which I count as 14. That makes it the biggest range increase to date.

New boots in the women's range feature strongly, together with great styles which would not look out of place next to top casual footwear brands such as Camper, Rocket Dog, and Ecco. This is undoubtedly the reason why the FitFlop™ remains the UK's number one choice of wellness shoe, and the reason why Drapers awarded the shoe their coveted title of Footwear Brand of the Year in last year's reviews.

Each of the new models for this year are listed below. Forget about the toning shoes which have been the hit of the last few years, and think comfort, style, and quality footwear, with added muscle enhancing, posture correcting, joint strain easing benefits.

Whilst men have no new true boots in this year's release, the Mukluk has been released in a men's model, and whilst not exactly part of the new season collection, I have included it below to at least give the men a choice of FitFlop™ boots! There is also a chukka boot style added to the men's range which is quite simply splendid. Women have a great selection of new styles, including the amazing FitFlop™ SuperBlitz™. Check out the new season FitFlop™ boots below, but beware. You'll probably want to buy the lot of them!

If you like your boots to be big, bold and beautiful, and capable of getting you through the thickest snow drifts with consummate ease, the latest FitFlop™ Blitz ™ will be right up your street. These are snow boots FitFlop™-style, and are warm, protective, stylish and incredibly comfortable and are sure to be one of their bestselling new models. Like a down duvet for your feet, these boots are sure to keep your toes toasty no matter how cold it gets, with a design that should even cope with a full-on Canadian winter. All 9 months of it.

The FitFlop™ Blitz™ features a SNUGTECH™ lining, a rugged rubber outsole to keep your footing when others are losing theirs, and a waterproof membrane to cope with the snow, sleet and the big thaw when your world turns to slush. The drawstring system will keep the boot firm on your feet, and adjusts to fit your lower legs perfectly. They have a resilient patent-style protection panel for when the going gets decidedly wetter, to ensure the water doesn't enter your boots. Whether for Après ski style or for looking cool whilst staying warm in winter, they are a great choice. Gunmetal Dark Grey too boring? Try out the bright white or moon boot blue model. Lovely.

These babies will set you back around £110 / $150 a pair

The FitFlop™ Blitz™ may look ultra snug and warm, but when you see the FitFlop™ Superblitz™ they look positively cold in comparison. The FitFlop™ Superblitz™ takes warmth, comfort and style to the next level, and whilst it is the same boot you get a whole lot of extra snugness with this model, thanks to the sheep strapped to the outside of the boot. Finished off with a Shearling trim on the outside, and a double height protective waterproof leather rand around the edge, not only will these great boots keep you toasty and warm, they will seriously improve your winter style.

The only problem with these FitFlop™ boots is that with such great looks, you won't want to wear anything else all winter. Probably best that you do though, if you don't want to be arrested that is!

Whilst they may not look waterproof, they have a waterproof membrane, and wool actually keeps the wet out, and even retains its insulation properties when wet.

The FitFlop™ Superblitz™ cost £175 / $200 a pair.

The FitFlop™ Hooper™ will be perfectly at home atop a Harley Davidson, yet has enough style not to make you look like a biker chick on your commute to work. The FitFlop™ Hooper™ boot has stylish lines, soft and plush leather, attractive stitching and an inside zip to make pulling off your boots after a hard day no problem at all. It's a basic boot, but has plenty of style and looks great with whatever you choose to wear. Pair this boot up with a pair of blue jeans and go casual, with a pair of wooly tights and a short skirt,or trousers or leggings. No matter what you choose to wear, these FitFlop™ boots will bring your outfit together nicely.

The ankle buckle will give the boot a personal fit, the rubber sole gives great grip, and with toffee, black or chocolate brown to choose from, you'll look great all winter long. Of course, since the boots have the famed FitFlop™ Microwobbleboard™ midsole, not only will your legs and bum get more of a workout, but your feet and joints will be kept in maximum comfort all winter long.

The FitFlop™ Hooper™ starts at £135 / $170, a small price to pay for all that lush leather!

Whlst the FitFlop™ Charley™ may look at first glance to be similar to FitFlop™ Superboots™, it is actually a brand new model for this year. It takes its styling cues from riding boots, but adds plenty of urban style into the equation. It has a split panel construction and is cut to match the contours of your calves, just like a riding boot. It's sleek, stylish and highly comfortable to wear, and you can choose from the all leather black boots or a mix of brown leather and suede.

The FitFlop™ Charley™ is slim, stylish, and sexy, and you can wear these boots with leggings, jeans or jodhpurs with equal aplomb. In contrast to other leather boots however, you'll be assured of getting the best in comfort for your feet thanks to the incredibly comfortable soft midsole, which will also help to keep your legs in perfect shape. They ease the strain on the joints, even out weight distribution in the feet, and will do wonders for your street cred.

The FitFlop™ Charley™ is £190 in the UK, and $240 in the States, but that money gets you a high quality boot that will be the envy of all your friends.

The FitFlop™ Dash™ is a super cute ankle boot, perfect for casual or smart casual wear. Constructed from smart and stylish suede, and sold in black, seal brown or chocolate brown it is sure to match with all of your cold weather wardrobe. Inside the boots you have a microfiber lining to keep the feet cool and comfortable, with the breathable fabric keeping the air moving for comfort.

No matter what shape of your feet or arches, you'll find this boot gives a great fit thanks to the adjustable side buckle, and whilst the upper is loose around the ankle, it remains firm on your feet, and secured across the instep.

It's fun and funky dressed up or down, and it will cost you just £100 in the UK and just $114 in the USA, making it one of the best value FitFlop™ boots from this seasons collection.

It may be called the FitFlop™ Byker™ and takes its styling cues from biking boots, but this is a boot that's made for walking, and that's just what you should do in them. These boots are ultra comfortable, ultra stylish and a great choice for autumn through to spring. The FitFlop™ Byker™ is essentially a FitFlop™ Mukluk™ in distressed leather, and will fit your feet like a glove. Sold in black or chocolate brown, the distressed leather looks smart and stylish, and great for all casual wear.

Inside the boots your feet are treated to lovely soft oatmeal wool, and naturally the soft and comfortable Microwobbleboard™ midsole will cushion your joints and increase muscle activity in your thighs and buttocks to keep your legs slim and slender, or get them into great shape much faster than from standard walking boots. Wear them with skirts, leggings or jeans, and you are sure to turn heads

The FitFlop™ Byker™ is sold in chocolate or black, and costs £175 in the UK and $225 in the States

The FitFlop™ Hyka™ may not yet be widely available in the States, but for UK women it is sure to be a bestseller. The FitFlop™ Hyka™ has the style of an off road walking shoe, but with far greater comfort straight out of the box. It's a great choice for dreary winter days, and for when you have to spend a long time on your feet. The leather uppers are robust yet soft, the sheepskin lining is soft and warm, and it will also help to regulate the temperature of your feet when the weather gets a little better.

Sheepskin is great for use in shoes as it wicks away moisture to keep the feet dry, is exceptionally comfortable and well cushioned, and has great insulation properties. Wool also has natural anti-microbial properties to resist odour, helping it to keep smelly feet at bay. The padded ankle makes it extra comfortable for a full day's walking, but remember these will be working your muscles harder when you walk so take it a little easy at first. For town or country, shopping or heading to the hills, it's a great all rounder for autumn through to spring.

The FitFlop™ Hyka™ costs £130 a pair in the UK, and comes in maple, black or bootcamp green.

Whilst the FitFlop™ Mukluk™ has been a firm favourite with women for some time, the model has now been released as part of the men's FitFlop™ range, and it's a stunner. Whilst the model has previously been popular in suede, the men's model is constructed from high quality tumbled leather, and it has to be one of the most stylish men's boots from any casual footwear manufacturer.

Whilst the outside is plush, the inside matches its looks with a high quality aviator wool lining. Not only is wool incredibly comfortable, but it has natural anti-microbial properties, and will keep the feet snug and warm in the cold, but also helps to keep them cool when the temperature pick up. Its water resistant, and with a bit of good wax polish these boots will retain their excellent looks for a good long lifespan. It may be the only true boot in the men's FitFlop™ range, but what more could you ask for! The men's FitFlop™ Mukluk™ is sold in sleek black or chocolate.

The men's model is yours for £160, and is called the Mens 112 Boot in the States, and costs a rather cheap $112 a pair. The women's Mukluk™ costs between £145-£160 depending on the model,and around $120 in the USA.

Whilst the men do not get many boots, they do have the choice of some great new styles of trainers and shoes, with hi-tops and chukka boots really rather attractive. The women's collection is more extensive, with some great new season FitFlop™ shoes to choose from this year. Check out these great new styles from the UK's number 1 premium wellness shoe manufacturer, which will offer year round wear and maximum combinability with your full wardrobe.

The FitFlop™ Supertone Luxe™ may be just an upgrade on the FitFlop™ Supertone™, but its a considerable improvement. It has head turning style thanks to its metallic paint job, and bright and bold colours schemes such as Plum Metallica, Gunmetal Metallica, Chocolate Bronze Metallica and Midnight Blue Metallica. It makes the otherwise excellent FitFlop™ Supertone™ just look a little dull in comparison.

The new models are smart, exceptionally stylish, and have a great design which gives your feet plenty of room to move, making them the perfect antidote after a night in heels. Add a Microwobbleboard™ midsole and comfort is assured, and with the wellness benefits, foot pressure concentration reduction, joint easing and leg toning, it's a winning combination that's sure to top many a Christmas wish list this year.T

The new models are yours for £100, although I have not found this one for sale in the States yet. Just the original Supertone™ from $120.

The FitFlop™ Supersneaker High™ is of the same mould as the Supertone™ and Supertone Luxe™, but sufficiently different in style to make it a worthy addition to your FitFlop™ collection. This high-top style is a mix of sporty and casual, with some really nice touches to add to both the style and the comfort of its predecessor.

One problem with this type of shoe is that it can often feel a little uncomfortable on the Achilles heel, which FitFlop™ Supersneaker High™ counters this with a low back, which is far more comfortable to wear and does not restrict the mobility of the feet. The collar is padded for extra comfort, and the colour choice offers conservative styles and some designs which are more in your face. If you want to play it cool choose the sleek and reserved Dark Shadow grey or Midnight Blue model, a maybe the bolder Plum Metallica or Black lizard print. But if you really want to make a statement go for the Bronze or Pewter Leopard print.

They are a stylish, comfortable, pressure reducing, joint easing and bum and leg toning package, and at £125 quid a pair or $145 Stateside, they offer great value for the wear that they will get.

The FitFlop™ Shuv™ boasts sleek and stylish looks and the snug fit of a sock, but with the full functionality of a shoe. Its seamless exterior blends sole with upper and the minimalist look makes it all the more attractive, and free from any unnecessary embellishments. It has a single moulded construction, and is constructed with a felt exterior with a marl grey or anthracite (dark grey) colour choice for maximum combinability.

The FitFlop™ Shuv™ can be worn as a shoe or a slipper, and works just as well inside the home or outdoors. It lacks a tread, but the rubber sole still has plenty of grip, and it will not pick up clogs of dirt and transfer them to your nice clean carpet. The FitFlop™ Shuv™ looks incredibly comfortable, more so than almost every other FitFlop™ model, and it is sure to be a bestseller this autumn. It's a first edition release, so the colour choice is a little limited, but you can bet that the colours will be increased soon, and besides, the two shades of grey will match pretty well with anything.

This model will set you back a cool £50, or $70 across the Atlantic

The FitFlop™ Kooper™ may be new, but it is remarkably similar to the FF Supertone in styling, but it is a great new addition as the leather uppers offer a much smarter style. Its smart enough to wear to work, yet casual enough for everyday wear. If you want to go more casual than smart, there is a great choice of colours in the sumptuous suede version, which looks the nuts with a pair of jeans. And whilst they are essentially trainers, they have enough style to get you past even the most vigilant nightclub bouncer.

The stylish FitFlop™ Kooper™ will work well with either jeans or casual trousers, but the black model is great with a suit and tie. If you want the comfort of a trainer but the look of a shoe, the FitFlop™ Kooper™ takes some beating. You can choose from black or chocolate leather, fox brown (yellow) suede, or hunt green.

The FitFlop™ Kooper™ will set you back £90-£95 a pair depending on the model and colour, with it priced at $170 in the States

If you love high-top sneakers, the FitFlop™ Supertop™ is the shoe for you. It offers the comfort and style of the FF Supertone™ or Kooper™, but with an ankle covering style for greater support and arguably more style. Perfect with jeans and for casual wear, the FitFlop™ Supertop™ is really rather special. The uppers are a mix of plush suede and robust leather, with a padded collar for extra comfort around the ankle. Inside the shoe you have a mesh lining for maximum breathability, and the suede trim helps to protect a traditional weak point in shoes where the sole meets the upper which should prolong the lifespan of the shoes considerably.

It's sold in black, cool grey, and urban white to match your sense of style as well as the colour of your jeans, and of course it's incredibly comfortable underfoot thanks to the triple density midsole, plus it will ease the strain on your joints and help you get better definition in your legs. Converse All-Stars can't claim that, that's for sure!

This model has an RRP of £110 a pair in the UK, although I have not found it available as of yet in the States

The Chukka boot is a popular choice for the autumn and winter, offering the best of both worlds, being part shoe and part boot. It's no surprise that FitFlop™ have chosen to release a chukka boot style in the men's range, due to the incredibly popularity of this style of shoe in recent years. Called the FitFlop™ Chukker™, it is sleek, stylish, modern and hard wearing, and is constructed from stain resistant leather and nubuck, with a leather lining for comfort and an Aegis ™ anti-microbial treatment to keep both feet and shoes smelling fresh. The leather is breathable to help prevent sweaty feet, and the ultra comfortable Microwobbleboard™ midsole has to make this chukka boot one of the most comfortable on the market.

The rubber sole maximises surface area with tiny hexagonal nubs for great grip, which resembles those of a pair of skate shoes - not that you would want to run the risk of scuffing these beauties on grip tape though. All told it's a remarkable shoe/boot that you will never want to take off. I love them!

The FitFlop™ Chukker™ can be yours for just £110 a pair, or $165 a pair in the US of A

Whilst you can find FitFlop™ for sale just about everywhere now, our recommended retailer in the UK is the Drapers Footwear Retailer of the Year for 2010, Cloggs. They have a great selection, great prices, and excellent customer service

In the US, we recommend first taking a look at Amazon on this Link. They have a good return policy and free delivery, and a great choice of styles and good prices, including almost all of the latest models at competitive prices. However at the time of writing they don't have the Hyka™, Supertop™ or Supertone Luxe™, just the Supertone™ standard.

Click the above links to view their selection

* Reduction in foot pressure concentration and pressure loading in a study conducted at Salford University, (Maximum figures given) Pressure loading 25% reduction, toe pressure 30% reduction, heel pressure 15% reduction. Continuing studies with the UK-Government funded Knowledge Transfer programme

**London South Bank University case studies on muscle activation (Maximum figures given); bottom muscle activation 30%, hamstring activation 16% longer, knee stress reduction 20%, Hip joint stress 8%, Ankle joint force 11%