2012 Back To School Guide: Umi Shoes {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

Umi Shoes have always been one of my favorite brand of children's shoes. Their design and style have always caught my attention and this year's Fall line has not disappointed. In addition to amazing styles, the quality is what has always kept me coming back time and time again!

About Umi Shoes

At Umi, happy little feet begin with their gentle hands. Hands that meticulously craft each and every shoe for the utmost in comfort and fit. Hands that simply know how to make a better children’s shoe. So, what makes a better children’s shoe? Years of experience working with age-appropriate lasts, patterns and buttersoft leathers give Umi a step up over everyone else. At Umi, all they make are children’s shoes, and they believe every step your child takes is as important as their very first.

Umi's main focus is on quality, comfort and style. From years and years of hand crafting shoes for babies, boys and girls Umi has developed a deep understanding of materials, patterns, footbeds—the building blocks of creating the most comfortable shoes around.

ace and friends thoughts

Thanks to our fabulous friends at Umi Shoes, little {e} was generously given and incredible new boot style from their Fall collection. The Ellise boot was more than adorable. If you didn't think it was possible, it is, just look at them a little closer.

This boot is adorned with two black lacy butterfly appliqués and accommodates any occasion in little {e's} school calendar. This boot features Umi's signature cushioned fit and easy back zip closure. With a little practice {e} has no problem getting these boots on an off herself. 

In addition to a unique and fun boot collection, Umi Shoes also offers a wide selection of functional and comfortable shoes, such as the new styles Marisa and Maddie.

The Marisa moccasin flat is a classic loafer that offers comfort and sturdiness with it's grippy rubber outsoles. The Maddie is flexible mary jane sneaker with a hook-and-loop strap, a comfortable cushioned insole and a multicolor butterfly that decorates the toe. Two perfect choices for any girls back-to-school collection.

Finally, Umi Shoes offer free standard shipping and a no-hassle returns.  Make sure to check out the Umi DEAL OF THE MONTH where a current style is discounted 50% off. This month's feature is the Riff (other styles available too).

************************************************************

Buy It

Buy your very own Ellise Boot ($75) as well as other fashion forward styles on Umi's site HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

Thanks to Umi Shoes, one LUCKY ace and friends reader
will win a $60 Umi Shoes Gift Card .

************************************************************

Pin It

2012 Back To School Guide: Chooka Chantal Skimmer Flats {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

The school year is quickly approaching and with that comes LOTS of running around. Lots of running around usually involves trekking indoors and out. With the unpredictable weather in the Midwest, I've not been prepared when a quick rain quickly rolls in.... stuck in flip flops... my feet end up wet and well... just plain gross. Thankfully, Chooka has introduced the Chantal Skimmer flats that are not only comfortable, but also waterproof.

About Chooka
(Credit: Chookaboot.com)

Chooka was born from the idea that utility can be beautiful. The concept began at a small, Seattle based company, when third generation CEO, Rob Moehring decided to take a risk with the family company.

It started simply, with bright colors and polka dots and moved quickly into everything from tattoos to leopard prints. The rubber boot changed from a muddy trudging wellie to a blank canvas, capable of displaying tremendous works of art.

Now establishing itself as number one in fashion raingear, Chooka has come a long way.  With new and innovative silhouettes and fresh and young designs, Chooka is growing and reinventing the rain boot every season. It has proved that utility can be beautiful, unique and stylish.

ace and friends thoughts

The generous folks at Chooka (part of the Washington Shoe Company) sent over the NEW waterproof Chantal Skimmers to help me trek through my Midwest unpredictable weather. These flats are super charming and extra delightful. You can certainly dress up you casual look with these adorable flats. The interior is lined with a soft neoprene that is removable and adds a little extra comfort to your step.

Chooka Skimmers are available in whole sizes and run a bit big, so I would suggest sizing down if your shoe size falls between two sizes. I wore them out for an evening and received quite a few compliments... they are VERY cute and more importantly comfortable. I like the criss-cross strap that has a convenient velcro closure.

Chooka not only offers a variety of colors and styles of skimmers, but they also offer over 45 different styles to choose from in their rain boot collection too. Finally, these Chantal Skimmers appear very well made and offer a PERFECT alternative to your heavier rain boots. 

A little more about the Chantal Skimmer (in black)

• Fashionable alternative to your rubber boots
• 100% Natural rubber 
• Molded, removable, cushioned insole
• Approximately 1/4” heel height
• Neoprene lining
• Adjustable criss-cross top strap for comfort
• hook and loop closure

Interested in learning more, take a peek at this video below:

************************************************************
Buy It

Get your own Chooka Women's Chantal Skimmers or other styles HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

One LUCKY ace and friends reader will win a pair of Chooka Chantal Skimmer in their choice of color (Retail up to $70). 

************************************************************

Pin It

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: BEARPAW *Whitney* Boots {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

Rain, sleet, snow... we get a variety of FUN weather here in the Midwest. Ok, maybe it's not exactly fun, but I will be prepared for that kind of weather and more with my new boots by BEARPAW.

 

About BEARPAW
(source: www.bearpawshoes.com)

Founded by Tom Romeo in 2001, the BEARPAW brand was created to redefine casual footwear using sheepskin, nature's own technical fabric, to develop not only a stylish shoe, but a comfortable one! Sheepskin naturally regulates body temperature so feet stay cooler and drier in the heat and warmer in the cold. (an interesting and useful new fact that I just learned). 

From slippers to boots to casual footwear, BEARPAW only uses the finest material in their products. Each product is built to deliver quality and style . 

BEARPAW features eleven different collections including the: Classics, Knits, Savvy, Up Country, All Weather, Tahoe, Boutique, Exotics, Slippers, Kids and Men.

Their extensive line of footwear is not only available throughout the Unites States, but is also available in thirteen countries around the world.

 ace and friends thoughts

The generous folks at BEARPAW sent over the Whitney Boots, which is a part of the Exotic Collection.  BEARPAW Exotic Boots take a walk on the wild side. Their exotic fur collection is trimmed with Fox, Coyote, Rabbit, Curly Lamb, and Goat. These boots provide luxury and warmth with a superb fashion look and appeal. Feel like a celebrity in these boots... as they do say "look at me!"

These boots were super cute and extra comfy. BEARPAW offers over hundred of different styles to choose from in their collection, from a variety of solid colors to a wide selection of amazing prints as well as exotic styles. These boots appear very well made and offer a very warm interior for colder days... and here in the Midwest, the weather is certainly unpredictable and these boots will definitely get lots of wear. I really am growing to LOVE this boot. The fur is so fancy and luxurious!

As far as size, BEARPAW boots are available in whole sizes and fit pretty true to that. I wore them out for an evening and received a variety of compliments... from comments such as, "those are SUPER CUTE" to "Wow, where did you get those FUN boots?".  If you are in the market for a reliable, functional and unique style of boot, make sure to get yourself a pair of BEARPAW, you won't be disappointed.

A little more about the Whitney (in Chocolate)

 

Cow suede, coyote fur trimmed collar and side detail, 100% super wash merino wool lining, sheepskin footbed, woven label heel logo, and metal charm. Boot opening measures approximately 16.25" around. 

• Cow suede

• Coyote fur trimmed collar and side detail

• 100% super wash merino wool lining

• Sheepskin footbed

• Woven label heel logo and metal charm

• Boot opening measures approximately 16.25" around

************************************************************

Buy It

Get the BEARPAW Whitney ($220) or other styles HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

One LUCKY ace and friends reader will win their very own pair of designer
BEARPAW Whitney Boots (MSRP $220)!
 

************************************************************

Pin It

Back To School - Heelys Wheeled Shoes {Review}

Featured Sponsor

Have you ever noticed kids whizzing by you in a store and rolling on something, but all you see on their feet are tennis shoes? Well, if you don't look close enough, you will miss something very distinctive about these shoes, they have wheels, kids (and adults) love 'em. Are you wondering what they might be... well, they are a unique pair of shoes called Heelys.

About Heelys (source: heelys.com)


Heelys are the two-in-one shoe that lets you take life at your own pace. With the wheels out, the stylish designs perform and look just like any other shoe. When you easily put the wheels in, you roll at a different speed. Heelys are about exploring your freedom, unleashing the fun and empowering you to be fearless. 

ace and friends thoughts


{c} was given the opportunity to test drive these fun and exciting shoes. He chose the Heelys Edge. These shoes mix old school meets new school. They have a classic style and feature modern light weight 'rip stop' nylon construction that will certainly hold up over time.

Heelys are like getting two pairs in one. You can easily pop in the wheels for a fun little ride or they can be easily converted to a street shoe by easily removing the wheel with the provided wheel key. Easy, right? Definitely. {c} thought that these shoes were super COOL. 

Before we could head outside, we watched the video below on how to get started:

It definitely took a little practice and a lot of me pulling him around, but once {c} got over the fear of falling, he was whizzing around the driveway. What he liked the most was the actual style of the shoe. He felt like a true skater boy. Final Thoughts: A {wheelin'} good time!
 

Need More...

• Visit Heelys.com
• Like Heelys on Facebook
• Follow @HeelysWorldwide on Twitter

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free from the Heelys via Business2Blogger. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." See ace and friends Disclosure Policy HERE.]

Pin It

Back To School Guide: BOGS Footwear {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

Rain, sleet, snow... we get a variety of FUN weather here in the Midwest. Ok, maybe it's not exactly fun, but {a} will be prepared for that kind of weather and more with her new boots by BOGS.

 

About BOGS

From the wet, windy coastal gales to the knee-deep mud and snow of the Willamette Valley and the Cascades, BOGS® quality footwear roots itself in Oregon -- and its weather. With their forty years of shoe industry experience, they strive to produce the most comfortable footwear for the most uncomfortable conditions, keeping your feet warm and dry -- all day long. Whether it's on the farm, in the forest or a night out on the town, BOGS® designs integrate ground-breaking function with style. 

BOGS® unique footwear is 100% waterproof, offering unsurpassed comfort and warmth, even in sub-zero temperatures. Using non-slip technology to release mud and snow, their soles guarantee the traction you need, specializing in designs for agriculture, hunting and around the town. They have also enhanced some of their designs with new, breathable materials to give you even greater, moisture-free comfort.

ace and friends thoughts

Remember when you were a kid and you’d come in from outside - your feet felt so frozen, the only way you thought you could thaw them out was to run them under some warm water? Or maybe you mom was like mine and made you wear plastic bags over your socks before you put on your boots to prevent your feet from getting wet. Luckily {a} won't have to suffer like that because BOGS are not only insulated to keep your feet warm, but they are also waterproof. Finally, a boot to do it all!

The generous folks at BOGS sent over the Classic Tuscany (in Pink) boot to help {a}'s rain or (need I say) snow-filled days so much easier. {a} thought these boots were not only very cute, bus very comfortable. She mentioned they felt a little heavier than her winter boots of the past, but not so much as to be awkward. The boots were very easy to get on and off which I found to be a HUGE benefit!

In addition to kid's boots, BOGS also have a wide selection of styles for women and men. They offer a variety of solid colors as well as some delightful prints. If you are in the market for a reliable, functional and unique all-weather boot, make sure to get yourself a pair of BOGS, your feet will be happy you did!

A little more about the Class Tuscany for Girls (in Pink)

• Comes in Black, Violet, Aqua and Pink
• Waterproof breathable construction is comfort-rated from mildly chilly to -30F
• Handles make it easy to pull these boots on
• Aegis antimicrobial insole fights odor

************************************************************

Buy It

Get the BOGS Classic Tuscany Boot in Pink ($68) or other styles HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

One LUCKY ace and friends reader will win their very own pair of designer BOGS kid's Classic High Boots (Retail up to $68). 
(winner's choice -dependent upon availability)
 

************************************************************

Pin It

Back To School - Dress For Success - Umi Shoes {Review & Giveaway}

Featured Sponsor

Umi Shoes have always been one of my favorite brand of children's shoes. Their design and style have always caught my attention and this year's Fall line has not disappointed. In addition to amazing styles, the quality is what has always kept me coming back time and time again!

About Umi Shoes

At Umi, happy little feet begin with their gentle hands. Hands that meticulously craft each and every shoe for the utmost in comfort and fit. Hands that simply know how to make a better children’s shoe. So, what makes a better children’s shoe? Years of experience working with age-appropriate lasts, patterns and buttersoft leathers give Umi a step up over everyone else. At Umi, all they make are children’s shoes, and they believe every step your child takes is as important as their very first.


Umi's main focus is on quality, comfort and style. From years and years of hand crafting shoes for babies, boys and girls Umi has developed a deep understanding of materials, patterns, footbeds—the building blocks of creating the most comfortable shoes around.

ace and friends thoughts

Thanks to our fabulous friends at Umi Shoes, little {e} was generously given a couple of incredible styles from their Fall collection. The Radiant boot was more than adorable. If you didn't think it was possible, it is, just look at them a little closer.

This boot is punctuated with vivid floral designs and grommet details, this blissed out boot accommodates any occasion in little {e's} school calendar. This boot features Umi's signature cushioned fit and easy back zip closure. With a little practice {e} has no problem getting these boots on an off herself. 

We were also fortunate to get some, what {e} likes to refer to as, FANCY shoes. Umi's Panache shoes are just well, that... shoes with lots of style.

Big girls Panache gracefully blends fashion and function. Adorned with a blossoming beauty, the crisp silhouette gives little {e} a new everyday favorite. And favorite is just and understatement, these are her all-time new favorite! With Umi's exceptionally plush fit, elastic ankle strap and durable outsole, how could she not love them. These were very easy for {e} to put on herself and I loved these shoes for that reason and because they were just so darn cute!

Finally, Umi Shoes offer free standard shipping and a no-hassle returns.  Make sure to check out the Umi clearance where a variety of styles are offered at an exceptional discounts.

************************************************************

Buy It

Buy your very own Radiant Boot ($95) or Panache shoe ($65) as well as other fashion forward styles on Umi's site HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

Thanks to Umi Shoes, one LUCKY ace and friends reader
will win their very own pair of Umi Shoes. (winner's choice)

************************************************************

Pin It

Chooka *Rain* Boots {Review & Giveaway}

Rain, rain.... go away.... oh wait... I want to wear me some cute rain boots.... and living here in the Midwest, there are plenty of opportunities. Thankfully, Chooka offers an amazing selection of stylish and functional rain boots!

About Chooka

Chooka was born from the idea that utility can be beautiful. The concept began at a small, Seattle based company, when third generation CEO, Rob Moehring decided to take a risk with the family company.

It started simply, with bright colors and polka dots and moved quickly into everything from tattoos to leopard prints. The rubber boot changed from a muddy trudging wellie to a blank canvas, capable of displaying tremendous works of art.

Now establishing itself as number one in fashion raingear, Chooka has come a long way.  With new and innovative silhouettes and fresh and young designs, Chooka is growing and reinventing the rain boot every season. It has proved that utility can be beautiful, unique and stylish.

ace and friends thoughts

The generous folks at Chooka (part of the Washington Shoe Company) sent over the Gypsy Owl rain boot to help me trek through my rain-filled days. These boots were super cute and extra comfy. Chooka offers over 45 different styles to choose from in their collection, from a variety of solid colors to a wide selection of amazing prints. They appear very well made and offer the option of a fleece liner for colder days... and here in the Midwest, the weather is certainly unpredictable and those fleece liners would get put to good use. Chooka boots are available in whole sizes and fit pretty accurately. I wore them out for an evening and received many, many compliments... they are SUPER cute. If you are in the market for a reliable, functional and unique rain boot, make sure to get yourself a pair of Chooka Rain Boots, you won't be disappointed.

A little more about the Gypsy Owl Rain Boot

• Gypsy Owl printed rain boot
• 100% natural rubber
• Moisture absorbent cotton lining
• Removable insole
• Working buckles
• Heavy treaded rubber outsole
• 14” shaft, 15 1/2” circumferences

************************************************************
Buy It

Get your own Chooka Women's Owl City Knee-High Bootor other styles HERE.

************************************************************

Win It

One LUCKY ace and friends reader will win their very own pair of designer Chooka  Rain Boots (Retail up to $60). 

************************************************************

Pin It