June 2009 - Posts
By Diane Mapes, contributing writer
What it is: Summer Soles Fragrant Footings, $15 for 2 pair at http://www.summersoles.com.
What it claims to do: According to the Web site, Summer Soles cure sweaty feet by providing a “soft, dry barrier between feet and the beds of shoes.” The trim-to-fit one-size-fits-all insoles, made of absorbent fabric that “captures perspiration from sweaty feet as pressure is applied while walking,” can be inserted into sandals, pumps, mules or flats, but not spongy flip-flops or fabric-soled shoes like Birkenstocks (the sticky insoles can’t grip fabric).
The insoles are said to be especially effective for people with plantar hyperhidrosis (excessively sweaty feet). Summer Soles also claims their product will help make shoes “instantly comfy” and the Fragrant Footings style offers the added bonus of keeping your feet sweat- and stink-free by releasing “microscopic bursts of the finest dry, natural aromas” as you walk.
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By Kristin Kalning, tech editor
What it is: The iPosture, $64.95 from www.iposture.com.
What it claims to do: This little electronic gizmo is designed to improve your posture. The monitor, which is the size of a silver dollar, senses when you slouch and gives you a gentle zap to remind you to sit up straight. If proper posture isn’t enough of a draw for you, the manufacturer also claims that sitting up straight can reduce an average of two inches off your waist and make you more successful, attractive and productive.
My experience: During my teen years, I think I heard my mom tell me to stand up straight about 4,286 times. And if she didn’t say it, she’d pantomime it with embarrassing gestures -- usually in front of my friends.
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