The genius boot that will save the NHS this winter
You know when you see a product and you’re really annoyed you didn’t think of it first? Well, that’s exactly what I felt when Lisa Kay, the founder of Sole Bliss, showed me the designs for her leather and shearling zip-up boot. Because, ladies, this is no ordinary boot; this is a genius non-slip, luxurious boot with inbuilt retractable stainless steel studs! When the weather turns treacherous, simply flip down the studs to provide traction on slippery, icy surfaces – think of them as a midlife football boot. This game-changing shoe could single-handedly save the NHS this winter, by helping prevent injuries from all the slips and falls on icy pavements.
Soft and fluffy snow transforms everyday drabness into a white, otherworldly beauty. But then, of course, we receive a Met Office warning about Arctic blizzards and black ice, and suddenly we’re navigating dangerously slippery pavements that could turn a simple supermarket trip into a hospital visit. According to NHS figures, in 2018-19, more than 2,500 people in England were admitted to hospital after a fall on snow or ice, with those aged 70-74 at the highest risk of injury.
On the NHS website, Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, says: “Older people are at particular risk of falls during winter. The streets can be extremely slippery underfoot due to fallen leaves, accumulations of rain, ice and snow, so we would encourage all older people to take extra care when out and about. When weather conditions are like this, a pair of sturdy shoes with non-slip soles are worth their weight in gold as they may prevent a nasty tumble and resultant injury.”
I wasn’t the only one smitten with these luxurious boots. I included them on my Christmas 2024 gift guide – and Oprah did, too. The famous talk show host said: “Gayle [King] and I love Sole Bliss shoes – and so do Julia Roberts and Viola Davis. These shearling-lined boots are cute and, thanks to their unique pain-free design, sooo comfortable.” As if these contemporary looking boots weren’t clever enough, they’re also designed to be comfy for women with wide feet or suffer with bunions. So, if you’re wondering what to put on your Christmas present wish list (hint, hint), they really are the gift that keeps on giving. I’m almost tempted to sing Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
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