adizero f50: Smart football boots

The adizero f50 has been dubbed the intelligent football boot and is powered by adidas miCoach . According to adidas the electronic soccer shoe tracks and uploads performance data to help improve the players performance. The boots have a cavity in the outsole unit which houses the miCoach SPEED_CELL™, which in turn captures 360° movement and measures key performance metrics including speed, average speed (recorded every second), maximum speed (recorded every five seconds), number of sprints, distance, distance at high intensity levels, steps and stride rates. On-board memory stores all the measurements during your game or training for up to seven hours and then wirelessly transmits the on pitch performance data to a tablet, PC or MAC. Other adidas technologies built in to the new shoe include the Sprintweb, which provides stability during high speed movements, Sprintskin, a synthetic lightweight layer to reduce the weight of the shie and Sprintframe, which uses geometrics and a new stud construction to balance between lightweight and stability.

The adizero f50 boots come with a Speed Cell™ and a smart device dongle miCoach CONNECT for iPod and iPhone as well as the miCoach CONNECT for PC / MAC. The boots weighs 165g and costs €245 ($330) and will be available at adidas retail outlets and specialist stores worldwide from November.

Deceptive shoe advertising?

Racism in shoe advertising

Shoes for the needy: Sisters doing it together

Students Invent Vibrating Shoe For the Blind

Thumbs up for Vibram FiveFingers: Conditions apply

The American Council on Exercise (ACE), is North America's leading authority on fitness and the world's largest nonprofit fitness certification, education and training organization. The Council recently announced the results of a small, independent study conducted at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, Exercise and Health Program on Vibram FiveFingers. The sock-style shoes are designed to protect the feet whilst simulating the effect of running barefoot. The study found that while the shoes may be beneficial for those who suffer from chronic running injuries, using Vibrams and barefoot-style shoes for running can pose additional risks if runners do not adopt the correct foot-to-ground strike style. ACE commissioned the study to determine what happens when runners switch from their traditional running shoes to wearing minimalist running shoes like Vibram FiveFingers.
Advocates of barefoot running suggest that traditional running shoes may increase a runner's risk of injury, as the shoes encourage the foot to use a heel-strike pattern, which causes more pounding and stress. Conversely, barefoot runners tend to run more lightly, landing near the balls of the feet and generating less pounding and potentially less risk of injury. Vibram suggests its product helps users simulate the feeling of being barefoot and achieve a forefoot strike run pattern while providing the abrasion protection of wearing a shoe.

According to the study provided runners were prepared to gradually modify their running style f through regular practice then Vibram FiveFingers were safe and effective shoes. A complete study summary can be found in the latest issue of ACE Certified News.

Toner shoes under scrutiny:Reebok rebate

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission announced this week that Reebok International Ltd has agreed to pay $25 million to settle charges that it made unsupported claims that its "toning shoes" help wearers get fit faster. The money will go toward consumer refunds. Reebok advertisements said the shoes strengthened hamstrings and calves by up to 11 percent more than regular sneakers, and toned the buttocks up to 28 percent more but these claims have been found to be factuous. The concept of toning shoes is they are designed to be slightly unstable and according to the marketing rhetoric, the instability causes the wearer to work harder and hence increases muscle tone. Reebok brought out a toning shoe in early 2009 and has sold "millions" of pairs in the United States. Reebok have been quick to respond and changed their advertising. Further they have stopped using boxes and materials that make those claims. Retailers will also be instructed to remove any prohibited marketing materials. US consumers who bought Reebok toning shoes or toning apparel can apply for a refund.
A variety of other companies advertise toning shoes, including New Balance and Skechers and currently there are private lawsuits alleging deceptive advertising against these companies.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS)

A reasonably common foot complaint is general pain and tingling in and around the inner ankle and sometimes radiating from the heel, through the arch and towards the toes. The feet may appear swollen with painful symptoms such as burning or shooting pains, tingling (like electric shocks), or numb sensations in the lower legs. The discomfort follows the path of the Posterior Tibial Nerve which runs down the back of the leg around the inside ankle and along the sole of the foot. Pain may intensify with activity and is usually eased with rest. Painful episodes are usually rapid and depending on the severity, the ability to walk even short distances can be severely inhibited. If left untreated, the condition may progress to permanent nerve damage. Causes of nerve damage (neuropathy) vary and it is important to have a proper diagnosis to effect relief. The correct diagnosis of TTS is often based on physical examination with a simple Tinel’s test to identify Tarsal. Tinel's test (or sign) describes a tingling electric shock sensation in the foot when the affected nerve is tapped around the inner ankle bone (medial malleolus) with the fingers. With other causes an X-ray can rule out fractures, and= ultrasound for synovitis or ganglia and a MRI will determine space occupying lesions or other causes of nerve compression.
The tarsal tunnel describes a narrow space that lies on the inside of the ankle next to the ankle bones. The tunnel is covered with a thick ligament (flexor retinaculum) which protects and maintains the structures contained within the tunnel. These are arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves and pass from the back of the leg into the sole of the foot. When the posterior tibial nerve is compressed in the tunnel a neuropathy will result. Once through the tunnel a branch of the posterior tibial nerve supplies the back of the heel (calcaneal nerve), with the other two branches i.e. medial and lateral plantar nerves, supplying the bottom of the foot. Depending on the area of nerve entrapment, the entire foot maybe affected as varying branches of the tibial nerve can become involved and ankle pain is also present with high level entrapments. Inflammation or swelling causes an increase in pressure within the tunnel which compresses the nerve and causing the blood flow to decrease. Nerves respond with altered sensations like tingling and numbness. When small muscles lose nerve supply this can create a cramping feeling. Fluid retention around the ankles will also make the condition worse.

The exact cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is often difficult to discern and a number of factors are usually involved. Treatment and the potential outcome of the treatment will depend on the cause. Anything that creates pressure in the Tarsal Tunnel results in TTS. This includes benign tumors or cysts, bone spurs, inflammation of the tendon sheath, nerve ganglions, or swelling from a broken or sprained ankle. Varicose veins or fluid retention around the ankle can also cause compression of the nerve. Currently there is no confirmed epidemiology and hence it is difficult to estimate the incidence in the general public. Most authorities agree TTS is more likely to be diagnosed in women than men and tends to be found in active sporting types. Mobile flat feet may result in increased incidence and those with lower back problems may also have symptoms. Back problems with the L4, L5 and S1 regions are suspect and might suggest a "Double Crush" issue i.e. one "crush" (nerve pinch or entrapment) in the lower back, and the second in the tunnel area. An ankle sprain may increase inflammation and swelling in and near the tunnel. Some systemic diseases, such as rheumatoid disease, cause swelling in joints and that may compress on the nerve but more often than not TTS is idiopathic with no known cause.

Treatments typically include rest, ice, manipulation, strengthening of tibialis anterior, tibialis posterior, peroneus and short toe flexors, casting with a walker boot, corticosteroid and anesthetic injections, hot wax baths, wrapping, compression hose, and orthotics. Medications may include various anti-inflammatories and local anesthetic patches are also a treatment that helps some patients. If non-invasive treatment measures fail, surgery may be recommended to decompress the area. Many patients (50%) report good results, although some, experience no improvement or a worsening of symptoms.

International Clubfoot Week

International Clubfoot Week . The International Clubfoot Week (ICW) is dedicated to raising awareness about clubfoot and clubfoot treatment. ICW provides an opportunity for parents, patients, health care providers, health policy-makers, and communities worldwide to spread the word that clubfoot, the most common muscular-skeletal disorder causing disability in children globally, can be treated. For more information regarding International Clubfoot Week, please e-mail : info@ponseti.info

iFoot: Clone Wars

Taobao internet mall is the Chinese equivolent to eBay. On offer are a large range of shoes sporting shoes some variation of the Apple logo. Most are Chuck Taylor All Star clones and they are available in a wide variety of colors and styles. Neither Apple nor Converse are associated with the faux footwear. Definatley collectors items.

High heels: Sarah Jessica Parker is in pain

After years of wearing high heeled shoes Sarah Jessica Parker's feet have caused health experts to warn against the danger of wearing stilettos. The Sex and the City star has come forward warning about the dangers of wearing high heels. Seems the thespian’s Manolo Blahnik addiction has taken its toll, with new photos surfacing of unsightly veins on Parker's feet. The foot police have been quick to pounce announcing the long-term use of stilettos and other forms of offending footwear (to whom?) can lead to a myriad of health concerns. The elfen SJP is approximately 5′ 3″ (1.60 m) and has worn high heels for many years now and the poor girl is uncomfortable in low heeled shoes (wearing them because they are more fashionable, no doubt). Functional shortening of the tendo Achilles can arise due to wearing high heels. This can make wearing low heeled shoes uncomfortable but often heel lifts can alleviate this discomfort.

Flash mob's routine does more than entertain

Flash mob's routine does more than entertain: Dozens of families laced up their shoes and got moving to the music on the Plaza on Saturday. They were on a mission to dance their shoes off to help families in need.

PUMA Re-Suede: Planet Friendly

One of PUMA’s most iconic shoes, the Suede has gone green. Each component has now been re-tooled with the highest quality of recycled materials. The PUMA Re-Suede has been developed using the latest materials and processes in eco-friendly product innovation. The upper, sockliner, laces and sublining are all made with 100 percent recycled materials. The synthetic ultra-suede upper material is created by Toray and comprises of 100 percent recycled polyester fibres. This is produced by a chemical recycling process that reduces the energy consumption and the CO2 emission by 80 percent compared to the production of other materials. The outsole of the PUMA Re-Suede is made from Double R Rice Rubber and the shoes are lighter in weight. The estimated savings in transport of the shoes in bulk is 15 tons of carbon emissions for every 10,000 pairs shipped. The Re-Suede will be sold in PUMA’s Clever Little Bag, an innovation in sustainable packaging that replaces traditional shoeboxes.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part Six: Flower of Scotland

One of the more inspiring songs heard at the Rugby World Cup is Flower of Scotland, the unofficial Scottish National Anthem. Written by Roy Williamson in 1967. It was first sung by The Corries. The lyrics relate to the famous Battle of Bannockburn (1314) when the Scottish army under the leadership of Robert the Bruce defeated Edward II of England. The tune was composed on the Northumbrian smallpipes and became very popular as a folk song. In 1974, Billy Steele, encouraged his team-mates to sing it on the victorious British Lions tour of South Africa. At the 1990 Five Nations Championship between Scotland and England, the song was adopted as the pre-game anthem and ever since it became associated with the Scotland national rugby union team. Usually the first and third verses are sung.


O Flower of Scotland,
When will we see your like again
That fought and died for
Your wee bit hill and glen.
And stood against him,
Proud Edward's army,
And sent him homeward
Tae think again.
The hills are bare now,
And autumn leaves lie thick and still
O'er land that is lost now,
Which those so dearly held
That stood against him,
Proud Edward's army
And sent him homeward
Tae think again.
Those days are past now
And in the past they must remain
But we can still rise now
And be the nation again!
That stood against him
Proud Edward's army
And sent him homeward
Tae think again.
O Flower of Scotland,
When will we see your like again
That fought and died for
Your wee bit hill and glen.
And stood against him,
Proud Edward's army,
And sent him homeward
Tae think again.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part Five: Studs or Cleats

As in soccer there are strict rules governing the kinds of cleats used in rugby. Wearing the wrong studs can increase the risk of injury to the player or member of the opposition. Studs must conform to the standard set by the International Rugby Board (IRB). The important thing is the size and location of the studs (i.e. cleats) on the outer sole. They must not be too long and need to have blunt ends and no sharp edges. Exact details are given in Law 4 (3) of the game. Studs of a player's boots must conform to the British Standard BS 6366: (1983. These must be circular, securely fastened to the boots and of the following dimensions.

Maximum length (measured from sole) 18 mm
Minimum diameter at base 13 mm
Minimum diameter at top 10 mm
Minimum diameter of integral washer 20 mm

The wearing of a single stud at the toe of the boot is prohibited but the law will accept a molded rubber multi-studded sole. Referees check the player’s boots for sharp edges or ridges and it is the duty as a responsible rugby player to ensure the boots and studs are properly maintained. Players in inclement climates prefer screw-in studs as these provide an opportunity to adjust the footwear depending on the conditions. Muddy pitches require longer studs and harder dryer pitches need shorter cleats. The cleat provides traction to help the player grip the ground as the push forwards or turn quickly. The regular player will carry supplies of studs and change them to suit ground conditions. When changing or tightening studs it is a good idea to apply a bit grease to the thread to prevent rusting. For forwards i.e. the tight five and some loosies, the choice of six studs in the front are traditional. The maxim the more studs, the better the traction holds true in the scrum. Scientific studies would shed some doubts as to this claim but players are very set in their ways and as pragmatists reluctant to experiment. Most quality boots incorporate support bar (or shank) to stabilize the rearfoot of the sole unit and nylon stabilizer that gives additional support to the outsole. Forward players use between seven and nine studs with varying patterns to suit the player.
The backs prefer a traditional configuration of the more laterally supported 5 studs.

Watch out there’s a toes sucker about.

Police in Conway, Arkansas, are looking for a phantom foot fetishist who is causing them alarm by randomly approaching women and trying to kiss their feet. Interestingly enough this is not the first time such a thing has come to the attention of the Conway constabulary. In the 1990s, a man, known as the "Toe Suck Fairy" did similar things but his modus operandi was to pretend to be a podiatrist in order to fondle and suck women’s toes. Often with these types of crime there are concerns the felon may graduate to more serious assaults.

Why some people find feet attractive in a sensual way is quite a mystery. Often these things are a mixture of biological factors combined with history, environment and nature. Biologically the sensory nerve supply to feet originates in the same part of the brain as the sensory nerves which go to the pelvic area and in some people; there is neural print through, which means touching the sole of their feet would be the same as tickling their fancy. Very young infants recognise gender by feet/footwear and may later subconsciously associate this to their developing sexuality. Later ‘being partial to a bit of leg,’ may become for many a normal development of intimacy.

Sigmund Freud was the first described fetishism as compensation behaviour when performance anxiety arose in males. He called this the Castration Theory and upheld that fetishistic objects like shoes, feet or pantyhose helped the men (invariably) overcome their anxiety. Anxiety neurosis manifests in a continuum of behaviour with intensity and range which varies from a partial liking of the object to a complete obsession with it. Abnormal fetishism is called paraphilia and describes established anti-social behaviour. Fetishistic objects may be either inanimate (e.g. a shoe); or animate (e.g. a foot). In the majority of cases, low level fetishism poses no danger to others and individuals usually pursue their use of the fetish object in private or with other consenting adults. Retifists (shoe fetishists) collect women's shoes (sometimes by stealing them) to have sex with the shoe. Retifists usually have exquisite taste for elegant styles with specific form and media determining their preferences. Pedal lovemaking is usually combined with elaborate games which involve trampling (walking over a person). There are enormous variations which include tickling, bondage, licking and shrimping (i.e. toe sucking). It is quite impossible to know how many foot and shoe fetishists there are simply because fetishists usually keep their preferences a closely guarded secret. As a group they maintain a close network where they function comfortably within a culture of clubs, websites and magazines to support special interests. On the World Wide Web there are literally million of websites which deal with foot fetishism alone. Fetishists are found in every level of society with the number of low to mid level fetishists in Australia would be enough to fill the Subiaco Oval.

Footnote
Salophilia (salopholiac) describes sexuoerotic arousal from tasting salty body fluids such as perspiration. Saliromania, on the other hand, describes sexual arousal from being ‘dirty.’ The odour of fetishistic objects adds to their sexual allure. Pheromones are odourless gases which can sexually excite. These enter the nose and are picked up by Jacobson's organ or the vomeronasal organ. Bromidrophilia describes arousal from body smell. Mysophilia refers to becoming aroused by smelling, chewing or rubbing against foul smelling objects like socks.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Feet and diabetic neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy (peripheral neuropathy) is nerve damage caused by diabetes millitus. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of damage to nerves that supply feeling and movement in the arms and legs. It can also affect the nerves that regulate unconscious vital functions such as heart rate and digestion. Neuropathies affect up to 50% of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In the former, distal polyneuropathy typically becomes symptomatic after many years of chronic prolonged hyperglycemia. Conversely, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus may present with distal polyneuropathy after only a few years of known poor glycemic control; sometimes, these patients already have neuropathy at the time of diagnosis. Diabetic neuropathy manifests with a wide variety of sensory, motor, and autonomic symptoms. Nerve fibres of different size mediate different types of sensation. The smaller fibres are affected first in diabetes and with continued exposure to hyperglycemia, the larger fibres become affected. Nerves are measured in micrometers (mu), and the smallest sensory nerves are C (IV) and A-delta (III) these are responsible for thermal/burning pain (0.2-1.5 mu) and sharp pain (1-5 mu) repectively. The A-alpha (I) and A- beta (II) are responsible for propioception (13 -20 mu), vibration and pressure (6 -12 mu) respectively. The primary symptoms of neuropathy can be highly unpleasant but the secondary complications (falls, foot ulcers, cardiac arrhythmias, and ileus) are even more serious. It is still unclear what factors lead to the development of diabetic neuropathy, and multiple hypotheses have been advanced. Hyperglycemia causes increased levels of intracellular glucose in nerves, leading to saturation of the normal glycolytic pathway. Extra glucose is shunted into the polyol pathway and converted to sorbitol and fructose by the enzymes aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase. Accumulation of sorbitol and fructose lead to reduced nerve myoinositol, decreased membrane Na+/K+ -ATPase activity, impaired axonal transport, and structural breakdown of nerves, causing abnormal action potential propagation. The nonenzymatic reaction of excess glucose with proteins, nucleotides, and lipids results in advanced glycation end products (ACE) that may have a role in disrupting neuronal integrity and repair mechanisms through interference with nerve cell metabolism and axonal transport. Development of symptoms depends on many factors, such as total hyperglycemic exposure and other risk factors such as elevated lipids, blood pressure, smoking, increased height, and high exposure to other potentially neurotoxic agents such as ethanol. Genetic factors may also play a role. Tight and stable glycemic control is probably the most important factor for slowing the progression of neuropathy.

Males with type 2 diabetes may develop diabetic polyneuropathy earlier than female patients. Although it can occur at any age but is more common with increasing age and severity and duration of diabetes. Patients with untreated or inadequately treated diabetes have higher morbidity than patients with tightly controlled diabetes. Repetitive trauma to affected areas may cause skin breakdown, progressive ulceration, and infection. Once neuropathy is present the symptoms persist indefinitely, but most people with diabetic neuropathy are able to lead active, fulfilling lives. Keeping blood sugar under good control may stop neuropathy from worsening.
Sensory neuropathy usually is insidious in onset and shows a stocking-and-glove distribution in the distal extremities. Sensory symptoms may be negative or positive, diffuse or focal. Negative sensory symptoms include feelings of numbness or deadness, which patients may describe as being akin to wearing gloves or socks. Loss of balance, especially with the eyes closed, and painless injuries due to loss of sensation are common. Positive symptoms may be described as burning, prickling pain, tingling, electric shock–like feelings, aching, tightness, or hypersensitivity to touch.
Motor problems may include distal, proximal, or more focal weakness.

In the upper extremities, distal motor symptoms may include impaired fine hand coordination and difficulty with tasks such as opening jars or turning keys. Foot slapping and toe scuffing or frequent tripping may be early symptoms of foot weakness. Symptoms of proximal limb weakness include difficulty climbing up and down stairs, difficulty getting up from a seated or supine position, falls due to the knees giving way, and difficulty raising the arms above the shoulders.

In the most common presentation of diabetic neuropathy with symmetrical sensorimotor symptoms, minor weakness of the toes and feet may be seen.
Autonomic neuropathy may involve the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary systems and the sweat glands. People with generalized autonomic neuropathies may report ataxia, gait instability, or near syncope/syncope. In addition, autonomic neuropathies have further symptoms that relate to the anatomic site of nerve damage i.e. gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, bladder, or sudomotor.

More Information

American Diabetes Association
Diabetes UK
Diabetes Australia

Mallory Musante Shoes: Hand painted beauties

Mallory Musante Shoes is owned by Mallory Musante who hand-paints her shoes. The process involves removing the original shoe cover, before applying a design, then adding a protective top coat. Her designs range from bold to understated, with colorful, geometric shapes are a recurring theme. She uses pop-up shops i.e. a store open for a limited time to test the feasibility of a permanent storefront and interact face-to-face with customers. Musante also sells online , in a few local boutiques and at fashion events such as trunk shows and StyleWeek Providence. Shoes range in price from $165 to $250.

My pal Foot Foot by the Shaggs

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

A beautifully made movie set in Shanghai and based on Lisa See's 1995 novel. It tells the story of two seven-year-old girls, Snow Flower (Gianna Yun) and Lily (Bingbing Li) who on the 19th century are matched as laotong ("old sames") , and bound together for eternity. Furtively they communicate by taking turns writing in a secret language (nu shu), between the folds of a white silk fan. In a parallel story in present day Shanghai, the laotong's descendants, Nina (Bingbing Li) and Sophia (Gianna Yun), struggle to maintain the intimacy of their own childhood friendship in the face of demanding careers, complicated love lives, and a relentlessly evolving Shanghai. Just as Snowflower and Lily faced footbinding, so too Nina and Sophia contend with the constraints of modern life. Drawing on the lessons of the past, the two modern women must understand the story of their ancestral connection, hidden from them in the folds of the antique white silk fan, or risk losing one another forever. Rather slow and complicated to follow but a joy to watch.

Big toe transplant will see paver return to work

When a UK man had his left thumb cut off in a sawing accident, surgeons grafted his big toe on in its place. The hope is after the area heals he will be able to return to work as a paver in a few months. Two teams of surgeons and anaesthetists worked simultaneously in the operating theatre. One team worked on his toe and the other on his hand. The procedure is quite a rare and involves very complex micro-surgical procedure which re-attaches the bone, nerves, arteries, tendons, ligaments and skin of the toe to the hand. Walking without a big toe will require some readjustment but otherwise is quickly overcome.

Take care of that pair: International shoe repair competition

The Shoe Service Institute of America's International Grand Silver Cup Contest invites shoe repairers to send their best efforts to be judged. This year’s winner was Barry Croft of Shoe Savers on Bissonnet, Houston. Croft is the only person to have won the competition twice in its 70 year history. The contest requires the repairer to restore a shoe to its original state. Each contestant must select a pair of shoes, repair one of them and send both in to be judged. On average the life span of a pair of high-quality shoes depends on how well they are kept. High maintenance maybe but well worth it when they can last 15 to 20 years. Croft’s customers are willing to pay between $75 to $100 to restore a $1,000 pair of Manolo Blahniks. The most common repairs are sole protectors for women; and sole and heel repalcements for men.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part Four: Rugby Boots

Rugby is a contact sport and like the other football codes depends on sound and robust footwear to maintain the action of the players. There has been little published research on the rugby boot which has possibly more to with the highly competitive nature of the footwear industry than a lack of interest in rugby boots per se. Both rugby and soccer boots evolved from engineer's boots . These were originally made by the local boot makers and the quality was superior to most workmen's boots of the 19th century. A distinguishing feature was often the high cut design to give extra support to the ankle. Modern players are bigger and heavier and more athletic which places extreme demands on footwear. Today’s game with emphasis on speed prefers a lower boot similar to the soccer shoe. This is especially true in backs where less restriction at the ankle gives greater mobility. The front row and locks wear particularly sturdy boots with high tops. Traction and leverage in the scrum are essential therefore the forwards boots need to be robust, supportive with excellent traction. These players also tend to get their toes stood on and the need to protect the top of the foot is an essential design characteristic. Unlike soccer, rugby necessitates players run carrying the ball and tackle. Stops, sprints, abrupt direction changes, landing, and impact punctuate these activities. The rugby player kicks from the hand, or a kicking tee, hence the need for a low tapered toe-box is less obvious. The modern rugby boot had a deeper toe box to accommodate the toes as well as provide protects to the top of the foot. Heels are protected with reinforced cups to stabilize the rearfoot during quick-change maneuvers. It is critical the boot flexes exactly at the point where the foot bends across the metatarsal phalangeal joints. Hence rugby boots tend to be worn with the toes at the very end of the shoe. This is thought critical to facilitate where the foot bends and the boot provides leverage otherwise bending the foot against an unremitting boot results in fatigue and skin damage. All this needs to come in a lightweight boot, which accommodates different width fittings. The physical dimensions of the players are bigger than average soccer players and unlike the round ball aficionados, rugby players prefer good fitting boots to the tighter style used by Becks and co. The shape of rugby boots accommodates a wider forefoot and appears rounder than the average soccer shoe. The lacing medium enables the players to adjust to specific anatomical volume requirements as well as maintain a comfortable fit. Because rugby boots need to give support careful consideration is given to the materials the footwear is made from. Rugby boots are available with leather and synthetic uppers. Best quality boots have, like soccer boots, been made from kangaroo skin but the demand for non-animal synthetic uppers is growing. Leather will stretch and moulds itself to the shape of the feet but unless specially treated can stretch out of shape in wet conditions. Synthetic boots are often lighter and less expensive. The vast majority of rugby boots will be made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials. Popular designer logos have had varying successes with rugby players. Some players prefer not to sport them and others may find their strategic setting ads strength to the footwear.

Welsh Heath Chiefs ban Crocs

Crocs have become the "shoe of choice" for many UK hospital staff because they are comfortable and easy to clean. Now Welsh health chiefs have issued an alert banning the footwear on the pretext it does not offer protection from sharp objects. Hospital authorities around the world, including in the US, Canada, Sweden and Austria, have introduced bans on staff wearing Croc-style shoes because of safety concerns.

Arch supports: An international forum

Delcam will host the second Orthotics Technology Forum in July, 2012, at the University of Salford in Greater Manchester, UK. The platform covers new technologies and processes designed to assist practitioners and laboratories in prescribing, designing and manufacturing custom orthotic insoles. The University of Salford is home to Europe’s largest School of Podiatry.

Sailing Shoes

Sarah Jessica Parker talks shoes

Danny "Fivefingers" Glover honored

At the Deauville American Film Festival, actor Danny Glover was honored for his contribution to American cinema. Never the shrinking violet, Mr Glover rocked up for the presentation wearing a casual tan suit, a brown baseball cap and a pair of FiveFingers sport shoes.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part Three

Rugby was once considered a brutal and rugged game, the purpose of which was to develop character and team play in the young Fauntleroy’s of the privileged classes. However modern rugby has developed into a fast paced game of skill and determination, where mind and body are exerted to the maximum. In Rugby Union each side has 15 players and all have specific duties to perform. Team formations vary but are broken into two, sometimes three lines. The seven forwards or tight five (in three formations) make up the pack. Traditionally the second group is called the backs, and consists of the remaining 6 players. The loose forwards and Number 9, the scrum half, form the third group, but in the formation Number 9, alone separates the seven forwards and six backs. Invariably the side possessing superior skill, and the team that plays together, will prevail over a much fitter, but less experienced side.

A summary of position and style of boot is given below.

Number 1 Prop Boots worn by the Prop have high and stiff heel counters to protect the ankle bones (malleoli). The boot needs to be able to stabilize the foot on landing, This is particularly important for second row forwards, who are hoisted into the air at the line out (by the props), and are prone to ankle injuries.

Number 2 Hooker
Number 3 Prop
Number 4 Lock (2nd Row)
Number 5 Lock (2nd Row)

Number 6 & 7 Flanker (Wing Forward) Loose forwards wear boots with a lower heel counter because they need to move freely.

Number 8 8th Man
Number 9 Scrum Half

Number 10 Fly Half Backs choose low cut boots similar to soccer shoes. The boot facilitates speed and turning which helps the players carry out backline maneuvers.

Number 11 Weak Side Wing
Number 12 Inside Centre
Number 13 Outside Centre
Number 14 Strong Side Wing
Number 15 Fullback

Rules of the game
A singular, all-powerful referee oversees each match. Talking back to the ref is simply not tolerated. To assist with handling and kicking the ball is slightly larger and more ovoid than an American football. A match is played out in two 40-minute halves, with a ten-minute half time to regroup. Only the referee is allowed on the pitch and he keeps time. In the past there were no stadium clocks in rugby. Complete matches usually begin and end in the span of just ninety minutes. Stoppages are permitted for injuries only. As match play moves past full time, the referee may allow play to continue until a turnover or a score occurs. Up to six substitutes are allowed, but once subbed the player may not return. One exception to this rule is if a player receives a blood injury, they have to leave the field of play for treatment, and can temporarily be replaced by a player from the bench of substitutes. However, once patched up, they may return to the field of play and the replacement player has to return to the bench. Medical staff and water carriers are now allowed on the field. Play continues until an infringement or a score occurs, not a 'turnover'. Aside from selecting substitutions, and offering a few moments of critique and direction at half-time, a rugby coach has absolutely no mechanism for input into the game once it has begun. He generally takes a seat in the stands. The selected team captain is solely responsible for conferring with the referee, and directing strategic plays. The match is continuous, with all players committed to running, passing, kicking and tackling for the full eighty minutes.

Scoring
The objective of the game is to gain more points than the opposing team within the allotted time of play. A tie is called if the scores are equal at the end of play. The point score is as follows.

Try (5 points) A rugby try is similar to an American football touchdown, but with two key differences. When the ball carrier crosses the goal or tryline, play continues. The player must be seen to put downward pressure on the ball, in full view of the referee, (often in the midst of warding off tacklers,) in order for a try to be awarded. If the referee has difficulty in making the decision, he may ask the video referee to make the decision. He does this by making an outline of a rectangle with his hands to demonstrate his request.

Conversion (2 points) The team’s goal kicker must then kick the conversion from the mark of the try along a line perpendicular to the tryline from the 22metre line or further back if desired. From there he can place or drop kick it between the posts. (Rugby goal posts are located on the tryline.)

Penalty (3 points) When a penalty is awarded, the captain may elect to "take the points" and give his kicker a shot at goal. The ball must then be kicked through the exact mark given by the referee, again as a placed or dropped kick. This could be a hard price to pay for being caught offside, playing the ball while on the ground, or being guilty of dangerous play (high tackling, etc.).

Drop Goal (3 points) Any player, may at any time, from anywhere on the pitch, attempt a drop kick. This same rule still exists in the NFL, with the great Jim Thorpe the last to exploit it. Although difficult and risky (since a miss generally results in a turnover), this form of scoring has broken many a heart. Often used as a last resort in response to a solid defensive stand, an outstanding kicker can break an opponent’s back with a swift and accurate blow. Many games have been won in this dramatic fashion, often at the final whistle.

Open and Set Play
During the game play must not take place in front of the ball and subsequently players are penalized for passing the ball forward in the direction of the opposite goal. There are stringent offside rules to prevent this. If the ball is accidentally fumbled forward, a minor infraction called a "knock on" has occurred. At the referee’s discretion, however, play does not stop should the other team gain an advantage from the miscue.

The ball can be advanced by: running it forward, kicking it forward, or passing it laterally until an open running space can be found and exploited. Field position can be dramatically enhanced with tactically accurate kicking. Balls are usually kicked to a part of the field left undefended, leading to a frantic foot race for possession.

A mystery to may strangers to the game is the scrummage (or scrum). The referee awards scrums after minor infractions arise (such as a forward pass or knock on). At the given mark each forward pack of eight players interlock, binding together, about an arms length apart. As the two front rows engage, a tunnel is created. All 16 forwards push in unison. On a hand signal from his hooker, the scrum half-back for the side awarded the scrum rolls the ball into the tunnel. The ball is then "hooked" back with a well-timed foot strike (as hands cannot touch the ball in a scrum formation), or by sheer force one pack may push the other over and past the ball to gain possession. The ball is picked up when it emerges at the last scrummager’s foot.

A lineout occurs when the ball travels over the sidelines, or "into touch". Play is resumed from the mark where the ball went into touch, by the side not handling it last. That side calls out a coded play and attempts to direct the ball to their assigned jumper. The ball is thrown down the middle of two parallel rows of opposing forwards, standing a yard apart. The advantage to the throwing side comes in knowing which jumper to favour often hoists him to breathtaking heights. The ball may be caught or tapped back, with creative attacks sometimes coming from a quick, unexpected tap.
Scrums and lineouts are all about possession of the ball. The forward pack with dominant skills can overcome one of greater size. A dominant forward pack can win most set pieces (scrum and lineout), and in so doing, neutralize an extraordinary runner or kicker in the opponents back line, by keeping the ball out of his hands. As the ball readies to emerge from the base of a set piece, a platform for transition into an attacking play exists. That play may come from the forwards, or the scrum half may elect to spin the ball out to his backs. A scrum half is the play maker, quick, and always elusive, crafty and tough. His underhand pass out to the back line may be a 15-meter bullet thrown while diving in the direction of his pass, fully stretched out and perhaps in the grasp of a desperate defender. The swift and strong running back line then attacks the defense in an attempt to find open space, as in a 3-on-2 or 2-on-1 break in basketball. A well-executed back line movement can be graceful, powerful and astonishing all at once.

The following are some technical terms to help you better understanding the commentaries of rugby union.

Advantage The referee allows the game to proceed uninterrupted as long as the ball is in play and there are no major infractions. Play can continue after an infraction if the non-offending team gains an advantage.
Blind Side The side nearest to the touch line.

Drop Kick A kick technique where the ball is dropped to the ground and as it bounces back up it is kicked.

Field or pitch The length of the field cannot exceed 100 meters (110 yards) and the width cannot exceed 69 meters (75 yards). Each try zone cannot exceed 22 meters (25 yards)

Dummy A technique where one pretends to pass the ball.

Free Kick Kick where a score may be made. Can be taken as a place kick, drop kick or if no score is attempted, a punt.

Grubber Kick A kick technique where the ball bounces along the ground.

Knock-on Where a player propels the ball toward the opponent's goal line. If this is deemed accidental then a scum results, when it is deliberate then a penalty is awarded.

Line-out A play where two single file lines are formed by both teams after the ball goes out of touch. A player from the team that did not take it out throws the ball back in from the touch line between the two lines. This brings the ball back into play and determines which team receives the ball.

Maul A loose formation brought around a player who is still in possession of the ball and has not been brought to the ground.

Obstruction (also called blocking) Where a player gets in the way of an opponent who is chasing after the ball. This results in a penalty.

Off-side Generally when a player is in front of the ball when it was played last by a team member. A penalty occurs if a player is off-side and obstructs an opponent, plays the ball or is within 10 meters (10 yards) of an opponent playing the ball.

Penalty kick Kick awarded to the non-offending team after a penalty occurs.

Place Kick A kick technique where the ball is place on the ground before being kicked.

Punt Kick A kick technique where the ball is dropped and kicked before it touches the ground.

Ruck A loose formation created around a free ball or a player who has been brought to the ground with the ball.

Scrummage (Scrum) A tight formation between the two opposing teams in readiness for the ball to be put in the tunnel between the two front rows and brought out into play.

Try Method of scoring worth 5 points by touching the ball down in the opponent's goal area.

Footnote
I would like to thank the following for helping me prepare this summary Arthur "Wallaby" Hill; Alistair "Come on, Scotland" McInnes, and the Welsh Wizard himself , Lynn "Fly half" Evans.

Cave of the forgotten dreams

The Chauvet Cave in South France was discovered in 1994 and is the home to the oldest rock paintings and earliest known human foot prints in world. This is the first time a filmmaker has had the chance to film inside the limestone cave and interview the archeologists, art historians and other scientists and academics who have been studying the cave. The movie is in 3 D and narrated by the director, Werner Herzog. On screen is always fascinating although it does meander from time to time.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part Two

Rugby was "invented" in 1823 during an intramural football match, at a private boarding school in Rugby, England. William Webb Ellis became so frustrated by his inability to kick the ball, picked it up and ran towards the goal. The story is most likely apocryphal, since games involving running with a "ball" in hand had existed for centuries before that. However Webb Ellis's deed is commemorated by a stone on the Rugby school grounds with the inscription

‘This stone commemorates the exploit of William Webb Ellis who with a fine disregard for the rules of football, as played in his time, first took the ball in his arms and ran with it, thus originating the distinctive features of the rugby game.’

Cambridge University immediately adopted the game and popularized it with local rules. Rugby grew in popularity at other public schools and in 1871 the first Rugby Union was founded in London and firm rules for the game were established. As the Commonwealth spread the rugby code was taken to the four corners of the world. Nostalgic colonials keen to capture their youth by played rugger. In the spirit of muscular Christianity, indigenous populations were also taught to play the game. Colleges in the US adopted rugby and the very first college football match was between Rutgers vs. Princeton in 1869. Eventually in the 1880s gridiron was developed but almost all the precepts of the American game is based upon English rugby. In 1880 the scrum was replaced by a line of scrimmage, drawing emphasis from the free-running characteristic of the game. Gridiron continued with rugby rules until 1905 but when photographs of a harsh game between Sarthmore and Pennsylvania were made public the resulting consternation led President Theodore Roosevelt to call for less brutality or face abolishing the game entirley. In 1906 the forward pass was introduced to the United States game. The rules of rugby died and the game of American football was born. When Dr. James Naismith, was looking to develop a new indoor game to keep his football players fit through the bitter Midwest winters, he came up with a neat innovation and called the game basketball.

Rugby continued to flourish elsewhere with especial regard to Britain, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. The governing body for rugby is the International Rugby Football Board (I.R.F.B.) commonly referred to as the IRB, was founded in 1886. In 1895 some players in the North of England asked to be compensated for loss of wages. This compromised the amateur status of the traditional rugby fraternity and hence a new game was formed with professional players (at least at the highest level). The split was extremely acrimonious and bitter resentment between the codes still exists. For 100 years, rugby union authorities stuck to their principles and steadfastly refused to permit player payments. It was also against the union rules on amateurism for union players to be involved in any way with league. Even as late as the 1970s it was normal for union players who switched to league to be ostracized by their former clubs. In 1995 the IRFB finally relinquished and rugby union became fully professional at all levels. Until then there had been widespread abuses (in the form of under the table payments, player trust funds, etc). The top players were now expected to train full time and could not realistically maintain employ, unless they became professional. Increasing media interest in the game gave the financial incentive and now both Union and league are professional games. Despite their origins and past history union stars are sometimes sought out by league scouts, and vice versa. Despite the professional status of the elite between 80-90% of all players to union remain amateurs.

The rules of league are different to union and rugby league teams have only 13 players (with two substitutions permitted) whereas rugby union has 15 (and no substitutions, except for injury). Both games enjoy great popularity. Today rugby union is played in well over one hundred different countries with several million people active participants. The I.R.F.B. is responsible for deciding international fixtures, revising the laws of the game and other general matters related to rugby such as amateur status of players.

Rugby has had a few famous people pull on a jersey and join the rough and tumble of the game for the leather elbow patch crowd. Boris Karloff was a standout forward in his native Hungary. When the big man established himself as Mr Terror in Hollywood (1936) he founded the Southern California Rugby Football Union and it is there to this day. Another enthusiast was Pope John Paul II , a solid flanker in his day, representing his native Poland in international play. Teddy Kennedy played at Harvard and David Niven and Richard Harris were both rugby men. Whilst at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar, Bill Clinton was known to "strap on the boots" from time to time. Richard Burton when asked if he would prefer to play Shakespeare's Hamlet on stage at the Royal Albert Hall, or represent his beloved Wales in a rugby match versus England before 80,000 fans at Twickenham, answered the latter in the affirmative.

One World Running

You can donate well loved shoes to someone in need through One World Running . These are a not for profit organization based in Boulder, Colorado. The program collects new and nearly new running shoes, T-shirts and shorts and distributes them to needy athletes and children throughout the world. In addition, they also promote health and fitness throughout the world by sponsoring fun runs in many underprivileged locations. The organization was started in 1986 by Michael Sandrock and was originally known as Shoes for Africa. Grandually the program expanded outside of Africa . One World Running accepts shoes at many local running stores. The shoes should be washed and air dried. With every $195 raised they send 50 pairs of shoes to Africa or 100 pair to Haiti and Central America.

Nike’s Reuse a shoe

Nike’s Reuse-A-Shoe program. This program takes old shoes and breaks them down into their primary components for reuse in other applications. You can drop off your shoes for recycling at any Nike or Converse store in the United States and many others throughout the world. The old shoes are recycled, along with pre-consumer material, which includes shoes that aren’t fit to sell due to defects and assorted scrap from the shoe manufacturing process. The shoes are then broken down into three components: the rubber from the soles, foam from the midsole and the fabric used in the upper. These materials are then recycled for use in different applications.

The rubber is melted down for use in running track surfaces.
The foam is used under the surface of tennis courts.
The fabric is used to make padding for facilities such as basketball courts.

In this way, every part of the shoe is re-used in a worthwhile sporting application.

A potted history of the rugby world cup, the rules of the game and rugby boots Part One

The first World Cup was held in 1987 and was co-hosted by the Australian & New Zealand Rugby Unions. Sixteen teams gathered to play the tournament in Australia and New Zealand. New Zealand was the first World Cup Rugby winners. In 1987 Rugby World Cup 1987 was broadcast to 17 countries and had a cumulative audience of 300 million people while the tournament finished with a net surplus of £1 million after accumulating gross commercial income of £3.3 million. From this modest beginning, each subsequent Rugby World Cup has been a roaring success suffice the Rugby World Cup is now the worlds third most popular and biggest sports event behind the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup.
The second World Cup took place in the United Kingdom, Ireland and France in 1991, and 16 nations took part. Australia beat their rivals New Zealand to take the cup that year. The third World Cup was in 1995 and saw the return of Springboks to the world rugby stage. The competition was held in South Africa where the home Nation took the honours. Although Wales was the official host of the 1999 World Cup, matches were played in England, France, Ireland and Scotland. Twenty nations competed and Australia proved the greatest team in competition. Rugby World Cup 1999 was broadcast to over 150 countries reaching a cumulative audience of over 3 billion people while a net surplus of over £47 million was achieved. This surplus was far in excess of the total revenue generated by the three previous tournaments. In 2003 Australia paid host to the iRB World Cup 2003 . Ninety-two countries started out for the final and twenty visitors played out the championship. The world's media was transfixed on the final as Australia and England fought for supremacy. One man made the difference and that was Johnny “bootman” Wilkinson (England). Not a lot of Australian people knew Wilkinson's victorious feet were comfortably encased within kangaroo skin and a boot designed by an Australian - Craig Johnston. Johnston sold his idea for a boot to Adidas in 1990 and the rest as they say is history. Australia's preditor was wearing Adidas Preditor Mania TM> Boots. In 2007, the sixth world cup was hosted by the French and 20 nations competed for the Webb Ellis Cup. South Africa was the eventual victors. Rugby World Cup 2011 is hosted by the New Zealanders and the All Blacks are favorites to win.

Bowling Alley Shoes: An object of theft

The fashion for tenpin bowling shoes has spilt out from the alleys and onto the sidewalk. Bowling centres in Queensland are losing up to 100 pairs a year with patrons simply walking away with the fancy footwear. Many centres microchip their shoes and some popular bowling centres have already had to replace their glow-in-the-dark bowling shoes back to non dayglo leather to stop the theft.

Another macabre find

Last week a left running shoe attached to a foot and part of a leg was found floating off a marina dock in Vancouver’s False Creek. It was the 11th discovery of human remains in a shoe in West Coast waters since 2007.

Shoes that tie themselves: Well almost

Who could forget Marty Mcfly (Michael J. Fox ) in Back To The Future II with his light up kicks with their self locking lace system. Millions of fans of the movie and sneakerheads have been waiting with bated breath for Nike to produce these commercially. They even started an on-line petition which has now come to fruition and the shoes called Marty McFly Hyperdunks, are available, albeit on limited edition. The new shoes are not quite the same as the originals (which might disappoint some), but they do look very similar. The colourway of the air-pressurized auto-lacing mechanised shoes is as the originals with a grey base, speckled outsole, light blue highlights and the number 2015 stamped on the tongue. The subtle blue netting sets these apart from the other Hyperdunks and they demonstrate the new buzz in the footwear industy which is enduring and lightweight materials. Nike designer, Tinker Hatfield (shoe designer) and footwear innovator Tiffany Beers have recreated the footwear legend with the 2011 Nike MAG. These feature an electroluminescent outsole, space-age materials and have a rechargeable internal battery which is good for 3,000 hours. The kicks are not recommended for playing sports, but they will make for good blue chip investments. Previously Nike did patent a self lacing apparatus but that trechnology is still in the future. However and the new hyerdunks are supposed to be ‘as good as it gets’. The shoes have been endorsed by Kobe Bryant. Which is a strange choice since Bryant is not the most popular fellow in basketball and certainly no match for Michael Jordan. I am sure the lightweight kicks will lift him above all that. On Thursday the company released 1500 pairs for auction on eBay (150 pairs perday) and the money raised will go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's disease research.

We have the technoloy: Shoe scanners on the way

Seems the technology required for passengers to go through pre-flight security screening without taking off their shoes is imminent according to an expert from the Department of Homel and Security. The proposed device scans shoes in three ways: using technology similar to MRIs used in medical settings; explosives trace scanners; and traditional magnetometer metal detection. Scanning shoes has been a concern since Richard Reid attempted to ignite explosives in his shoes while on a transatlantic flight in 2001. All previous attempts to produce a shoe scanner have failed to meet minimum security standards.

DS3 Racing Shoe: Limited Edition

Citroën and fashion brand, Gio-Goi have collaborated to create a limited edition shoe inspired by the Citroën DS3 Racing. The distinctive high-top sneaker, named DS3 Racing Shoe by Gio-Goi, takes inspiration from the car’s high-quality materials and visual styling according to the manufacturers. The shoes are finished in black and orange color scheme, using black, tumbled full-grain leather with a waxy finish to give the shoe a soft, luxurious feel. The soft leather lining, foam padded tongue and flexible rubberized sole add to the comfort, ensuring it flexes perfectly with the movement of the foot. The DS3 Racing Shoe by Gio-Goi is a strictly limited edition line of footwear with just 100 pairs being produced, some of which will be available to purchase at recommended retail price of around $190. The shoes have been given the thumbs up from Jeremy Clarkson (BBC Top Gear) and described them as ‘the automotive equivalent of a training shoe.’

Toe Tapper Rapper

Increased foot morbility and decreased public foot care servces

According to recent figures many seniors are unable to trim their own toe nails. Restriction in flexibility and mobility casued by again prevent them from reaching their toes and co moribund conditions affecting eyesight, immune response, healing and increased risk of infection, result in preventable morbidity. Reliance on public funded podiatry services are further frustrated with reduction in services. In the UK it is regularly claimed seniors join endless waiting lists for NHS podiatry servces with many are forced to seek alternative private care at a time when they can least afford it.

MSN Life & Style 'Shoebox'

A recent MSN survey looked at shoe wearing habits of women. Just over 1500 women were surveyed and almost half feel more attractive in higher heels. Many described their heels as making them feel sexy and confident. Eightysix percent (86 per cent) said they had suffered an injury because of their favourite footwear. More than half (52 per cent) of those said they would happily brave the pain as long as they look good in their shoes. Twenty seven percent (27 per cent) of the pool owned upwards of 50 pairs. Just under half of respondents admitted to buying at least one pair every month, and 15 per cent bought a pair of new shoes every fortnight. 40% of the survey had at least five pairs of shoes they had worn more than once. Fifty seven percent (57 per cent) said they thought little of spending more than £100 on a pair. In the UK woman are prepared to pay up to £142.59 (216.985 AUD) on the right shoes. The survey was carried out to launch MSN Life & Style 'Shoebox' where shoe addicts can share pictures of their favourite footwear. Shoe fashionista can upload a picture of your favourite pair of shoes with a sentence or two describing when you bought them, where they are from, why they are your favourite pair and anything else you'd like to share and by uploading your shoes you even get entered into a competition to win a HTC Windows phone.

How to open a bottle of wine with a shoe