Umi Footwear for Kids (Review & Giveaway)

The only thing that I find more fun than shoe shopping for myself is shoe shopping for my daughter.  It’s even more thrilling when I’m browsing the unique selection of adorable, fine quality and sturdy footwear made by Umi shoes.  From sandals to boots, and everything in the middle, Umi has it all.

But what makes this company stand out from others are the high standards that the company makes for itself.  Their products are rigorously tested to ensure that the materials used are safe, non toxic and durable.  Shoes are even packaged in recycled materials.  Umi is definitely doing their part in making the world a safer (and more stylish) place.

Another thing I love about Umi children’s shoes is the attention to detail.  Their styles are different from the standard styles we’re used to seeing, and that uniqueness makes them so special.  Browse around the store and you’ll see what I mean.  The shoes are handcrafted using premium leathers and every shoe features a comfortable footbed.

Emma was sent a this darling pair of ankle boots named June Bug.  This shoe is also available in purple, but we went with brown figuring that it will match more of her outfits.  Obviously, you can see how adorable these shoes are just by looking at them, but there are many other reasons to love them.  For one, they’re easy to get on and off due to the generously sized opening at top.  It’s nice to put a shoe on easily and without a battle.  The velco closure helps matters and means that there will never be any laces to tie and possibly trip over.

With an active toddler on my hands, the other thing I appreciate about this Umi shoe is its durability.  I especially love the rubber lip at the front.  So often Emma scratches leather shoes by kneeling down and dragging her feet and shoes behind her.  She wore these yesterday and I was nervous watching her do this, but this pair truly held up and are still as good looking as when they first came out of the box.

Umi has recently partnered with Laurie Berkner, and now you can get a complimentary copy of the Laurie Berkner CD Rocketship Run with any Umi purchase.  Just use the promo code, LBCD1 at checkout!

Umi can surely consider me a faithful customer from this point forward.  And in case you’re not convinced, Umi has given one lucky Girl Gone Mom reader a chance at winning a pair!

RGIVEAWAY!
Enter to win a pair of Umi shoes ARV $60!  (US + CAN – Ends 11/10)

Winner can select one of the following shoes:
Adelaide – black
Tafetta – chocolate
Borneo – red
Tiberius Lo - black

Mandatory Entry: Visit Umi and have a look at the four pairs listed above. Tell me which one you’d like!

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry. 
+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect
+1 Extra Entry if you follow Umi shoes on twitter and leave your handle in comment.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:

WIN a pair of adorable, fine quality leather children’s shoes from Umi ARV $60 @GirlGoneMom – http://bit.ly/9xa0TD

+1 Extra Entry if you subscribe to my youtube page.
+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Umi shoes on Facebook and leave your FB name.
+1 Extra Entry if after you ‘Like’ Umi shoes, leave this comment on their wall:  I entered to win a pair of Umi shoes at Girl Gone Mom - http://bit.ly/9xa0TD
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+2 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a recent non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link to this post.

Contest is open to US residents and closes at Midnight EST on 11/10/2010.  One main entry per person.  No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor sent me the product sample and is offering the same for one lucky reader.

Winning Style: See Kai Run Review & Giveaway!

Closed – The lucky winner is #836 – jakiesmom!

Over the weekend, my sister-in-law and I were discussing the possible link between improper footwear and back problems later in life.  A good quality shoe is an investment in the health of your child’s developing feet ,which is why I am willing to spend more on a great shoe than I would on a fancy t-shirt.  You get what you pay for, and that can’t be more true of anything as it is with footwear. 

However, that doesn’t mean that they need to look like orthopedic shoes and be void of style and fun.  See Kai Run footwear is just as adorable on your child’s feet as they are healthy for them.   This footwear brand has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association's prestigious Seal of Acceptance.

We received a pair of Taylor-gray shoes to review.  This is our second pair of See Kai Run shoes, so you know that we are already big fans of this children’s footwear brand.  The Taylor shoe is a new-for-fall style that I absolutely love.  This season gray is the new basic, which is a nice break from the browns you normally see in stores this time of year.  But if brown is what you want, the Taylor style is available in that color too. 

Emma’s new Maryjanes feature a lavender sunburst just above the big toe.  The detailing is beautiful and deserves to be seen up close.

The Maryjane style is beyond cute, but also so easy to get on and off thanks to the adjustable velcro closure.  They’re all leather from the top to the insole to allow feet to breathe and keep dry, and the rubber sole will bend right along with her feet so as not to get in the way of her active lifestyle.

I have my eye on a few other pairs that would complement my daughter’s fall wardrobe.  Just try and visit See Kai Run and choose your favorite.  It isn’t easy, but it will be worth your while.

GIVEAWAY!
One of my readers will receive a See Kai Run or Smaller shoe of their choice!
(US + CAN - Ends 10/21)

Mandatory Entry:  Leave a comment below telling me which shoe you want to win from See Kai Run.  Choose wisely, as this is the pair you will receive if you win!

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry.  For example, if you become an email subscriber, leave two comments.

+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect.
+1 Extra Entry if you follow See Kai Run on twitter.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:
WIN a pair of See Kai Run Shoes http://bit.ly/9mFkJm – adorable and healthy for little feet! #WinningStyle @girlgonemom @SeeKaiRun #giveaway

+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ See Kai Run on Facebook.
+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you sign up for the See Kai Run email list.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+5 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+1 Extra Entry if you add my Fall for Fashion button to your blog sidebar.  Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry if you tag my fan page and a link to this contest in your facebook status.  If you do this correctly it will appear on my wall.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway.

No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor provided a product sample for the review, and is offering one gift card to a lucky reader. Contest is open to anyone age 18 and older who lives in the US or Canada and closes at Midnight EST on October 21st.  One main entry per person.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Winning Style: Pediped Shoes for the Active Toddler - Giveaway!

Closed – Congrats to the lucky winner, Linda !

When I was getting Emma’s closet ready for fall, I discovered the Pediped Originals I had reviewed back in March.  I decided to try them on her with my fingers crossed, but they no longer fit her growing feet.  It was a sad moment for me; partly because my little baby is no longer a baby, but mostly because I loved the Grace shoe from Pediped. 

Angela and Brian Edgeworth started Pediped in 2004 when trying to find the perfect shoe for their little girl.  Like any good parent, they wanted the highest quality, most comfortable and best style in a shoe for their child.  This is exactly what the company offers today, through over 3000 stores world-wide.

There are three lines offered by Pediped footwear.  The Originals® mimic barefoot walking for children who are learning to walk, the Grip ‘n’ Go™ line is for the kids who are transitioning from those first few steps until they develop a confident stride, and the Flex® is for experienced little walkers and runners.

Emma is now in that experienced walker phase, though she specializes in running.  We received the Giselle style from the Flex line.  They’re a chocolate brown leather shoe with pastel dots.  What I first noticed just by looking at them as they came out of the box is that they’re adorable and perfect for fall.   But what really makes these shoes special is all in the engineering.

First, they’re made from leather to allow her feet to breathe.  Also, the sole is flexible to keep up with her activities.  Emma likes to stand on her tippy toes and walk around, and she can actually do that wearing these Flex shoes.  Finally, the heel cushion distributes foot pressure evenly, which is an essential quality to ensure foot health.  

With the rate at which Emma’s feet are growing, I greatly appreciate the Pediped Flex Fit System.  The insole that comes along with the shoe provides an additional 2mm of thickness to the inside of the shoes, which can be removed as little feet grow and extra room is needed.  Every shoe should have this!  Sure, you can always buy a size up but with Flex Fit, the shoe will fit nice and snugly to begin with.

It’s another great design from Pediped.  If you like a good deal (and who doesn’t?), Pediped is now offering Free Shipping with this promotional code: 75ship. 

GIVEAWAY!
One lucky reader will win a pair of Pediped Originals!
(US Only – Ends 10/18)

Mandatory Entry:  Pediped will choose your shoe, but visit them and tell me which one you like the most. 

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry.  For example, if you become an email subscriber, leave two comments.

+1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect.
+1 Extra Entry if you follow Pediped on twitter.
+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:
I want to WIN a pair of Pediped Originals– the cutest shoes for growing baby feet! #WinningStyle @girlgonemom - http://bit.ly/9Yop1e

+1 Extra Entry if you ‘Like’ Pediped on Facebook.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave this comment on their wall after liking them:
I entered to win a pair of Pediped Orginals @girlgonemom - http://bit.ly/9Yop1e

+1 Extra Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall that you entered.
+1 Extra Entry if you also subscribe to my Youtube page.
+2 Extra Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.
+2 Extra Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.
+5 Extra Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.
+1 Extra Entry if you add my Fall for Fashion button to your blog sidebar.  Leave link.
+2 Extra Entries if you add my blog url to your text blog roll. Leave link.
+1 Extra Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.
+1 Extra Entry if you leave a comment on a non-giveaway post.
+5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway.

No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor provided a product sample for the review, and is offering one to a lucky reader. Contest is open to anyone age 18 and older living in the US and closes at Midnight EST on October 18th.  One main entry per person.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!

Winning Style: Wee Squeak Toddler Shoes Giveaway!

Closed – Congratulations to #408 – Nad

It can be a stressful event when you lose sight of your child.  They have a way of sneaking off and getting into trouble rather quickly.  My child doesn’t answer when I call her name, which is nerve-wracking.  I know that I am not alone here, which is why it was important for me to feature Wee Squeak in this Fall Fashion event. 

Wee Squeak makes kids shoes that are not only stylish, but they help us parents keep an ear on our kids even when we may not be able to see them.  As the name suggests, the shoes squeak every time your child takes a step.  I think they’re the most clever idea to come to children's fashion, and kids love them too.  My daughter squeaks with excitement every time her shoes squeak!

 

I think little girls look absolutely adorable in boots, especially cute ones like the Brown Pansy Boots I picked out for Emma.  Fall isn’t officially here for another week and a half, but the weather has certainly cooled down quite a bit, so Emma’s been wearing her new boots whenever possible.  Especially since her mama didn’t order the right size, so they are already pretty snug on her.  The last time I ordered from Wee Squeak, I ordered them too large, but I am learning that as fast as little feet grow, a little extra space doesn’t hurt. 

This is my favorite shoe yet from Wee Squeak.  The quilting on this boot is beautiful, and it has a faux fur top with a pansy-decorated band for my little aspiring Diva.  The fur material lines the inside of the boot, which is great for warmth.  Socks are optional.  This pair is available in sizes 3-12.  I wish it was available in my size, because I’d love this boot for myself.

Best of all, I can hear my daughter coming and going with the squeaking sound.  There are times though when you want to keep those feet quiet, so the squeaker is removable.  It’s great to have that option.

Wouldn’t you love a pair of Wee Squeaks for the child in your life?  Due to the generosity of Wee Squeak, you have a chance to win them here!

GIVEAWAY!
Enter to win your choice from Wee Squeak - ARV $32!
(US Only – Ends 10/5)

Mandatory Entry:  Tell me which pair of Wee Squeak you’d like including the size in your first comment below.

EXTRA ENTRIES: Must leave a separate comment for each extra entry.  For example, if you become an email subscriber, leave two comments.

+1 Entry if you follow this blog publicly via Google Friend Connect.

+1 Entry daily follow Girl Gone Mom on twitter and tweet this message:
Hear your child coming in a pair of adorable shoes by Wee Squeaks! http://bit.ly/9EU7PX @girlgonemom #WinningStyle

+1 Entry ‘Like’ Wee Squeak on Facebook and leave this comment on their wall:
I entered to win a pair of Wee Squeaks at Girl Gone Mom: http://bit.ly/9EU7PX

+1 Entry ‘Like’ Girl Gone Mom on Facebook and leave a comment on my wall.

+2 Entries if you become a feed subscriber and tell me which reader you use.

+2 Entries if you are an email subscriber.  Leave email address.

+3 Entries add my new (green) button to your blog sidebar.  Leave the link.

+1 Entry if you add my Fall for Fashion button to your blog sidebar.  Leave link.

+1 Entry for every other current giveaway you enter.

+1 Entry if you leave a meaningful comment on a non-giveaway post.

+5 Entries if you blog about this giveaway.

No compensation was received for this post.  The sponsor provided a product sample for the review, and is offering one pair to a lucky reader. Contest is open to anyone living in the US age 18 and older and closes at Midnight EST on October 5th.  One main entry per person.  The winner will be selected using Random.org. See giveaway rules before entering. GOOD LUCK!