This summer, the FitFlop brand hit our shelves with their thick-soled range of flip flips. With claims of toning muscles and giving the body a real workout, they were a huge hit with women all over the UK.

I wanted to see what all the fuss was about, and with winter now upon us, decided the new range of Mukluk boots would be more appropriate for the season.

Lined with sheepskin, the chocolate brown boots I received were snug to say the least when I first put them on, but soon moulded around my foot and heel, giving a lasting impression in the lining. The first thing I noticed was just how comfy the boots were.

With a platformed heel of around 4cm, they were unlike any other winter boot but the added height was comfortable and I didn’t really notice it at first.

They look good and they’re good for me? Hmm, okay, I thought.

So what is the technology behind the creation, you ask? The Microwobbleboard technology is basically the idea of increasing the time your muscles work every time you step. Leg and bottom muscle activity is said to increase up to a whopping 30%, foot pressure is reduced, and the technology allows the boots to absorb more shock than a normal shoe.

In other words, your muscles are doing more work than usual, meaning a mini workout for your legs, bum and hips. Genius, really.

But did they work? Short of monitoring my every move and measuring muscle size, I could definitely notice a difference. Firstly, I could see a real difference from the transition between wearing normal shoes to wearing the Mukluk boots. I’ve always had weak ankles and narrow feet, and when wearing the Mukluk boots, my feet felt supported and comfortable.

Moreover, my legs felt tired after wearing them. I was sceptical at first, wondering if I would really notice a difference, but by the end of my first week wearing the boots to and from work and in the office, my legs felt tired by the time the weekend approached. I felt like I’d been to the gym –but with none of the sweat and tears!

 Some winter boots have foam-like soles, and slip and slide on sodden autumn leaves on the floor. The Mukluk boots were different, and the grip was brilliant, even in the ice.

It’s difficult to say exactly how my fitness per se has been affected, but I definitely felt different the more I wore the boots. I also suffer with back problems, and must say after a few weeks of wear, I did feel more supported by the boots, and the strain on my back lessened.

I suspect these boots will be a definite hit with fitness fanatics and avid walkers alike, and I myself am a definite fan, despite my early scepticism.

For more information and to buy, visit www.fitflop.com

The Mukluk boots RRP £135