Why oh why didn't I trust the stories when they came out last year? I can't believe that I have missed twelve months of effortless exercise!

Never mind, better late than never I have succumbed to the phenomena that is the Fit Flop. I'm not normally a fan of sports footwear — trainers are things I have to buy rather than enjoy spending out on. So the sporty styling of the very functional looking FitFlop was not an instant winner for me. Forget its claims, it just looks rather worthy.

But then I spotted the new styles for this year. Ok, now I'm interested. Sparkles in different colours? Now you're talking my language. Perhaps they're worth a punt — even if, at £44, they cost a little more than the striped webbing versions. If I like them enough, I'll wear them more often and the magic will obviously stand a better chance of working. If there is magic of course.

As someone who grew up wearing flip-flops, I'm happy with a toe-post shoe. but for those who're doubtful about this, I have to report that these really are comfortable. The piece between the toes is in very soft leather and the upper part is wide enough to give plenty of support. And as for actually walking in them — I really can say that FitFlops are instantly comfy. There was no wearing-in to get used to them — just slip on and go.

And then there's the construction of the things _ and here's the science bit: they have a "patent-pending microwobble board™ multi-density midsole" which was "biomechanically designed". What it does is increase leg muscle activity by around 10-12% every time you take a step. Which means they help to tone calves, thighs and bum, improve posture and have even been known to relieve pain in heels, knees and back. no wonder some women don't want to take them off.

There's no question — I can feel the muscles in my legs and buttocks working hard. After a day of wearing them, walking around the office and at home, there's the familiar ache you get after a pretty strenuous work-out or run.
And now, after just a week, I'm addicted to them. I resent having to put on normal shoes, so it looks as though I might have to buy a few more pairs in different colours. So far they seem to go with pretty much everything in my wardrobe. Just two questions to the inventor Marcia Kilgore; my partner wants to know when she's going to make a range for men (perhaps not so glittery)? And, could she try her hand at shoes that whittle away stubborn back fat? Just a thought....

www.fitflop.com for stockists and further information