Thursday’s Child: Mooshu Trainers Encourage Heel-to-Toe Gait

Thursday's Child: Mooshu Trainers Encourage Heel-to-Toe Gait <script src="http://ajax.googleapis.com/ajax/libs

Footwear Webdesk
May 26, 2011

Squeaky Soles with a Purpose

When Debra Bishop’s daughter was born, she had her mother’s feet—the wide variety. As her daughter grew, Bishop grew frustrated with the lack of variety available, until she happened upon the Squeaky Shoe in China. Now with a single pair of shoes that fit correctly and helped her daughter walk, Bishop wanted more.

She loved the fact that the shoes had a two-way squeaker that only squeaked when she walked with the right gait—heel toe, heel toe. So, she took the idea she originally saw in a Chinese-made model and added components that were comfortable for wide, thick feet, while refusing to sacrifice style. In 2005, Bishop bowed Mooshu Trainers, and has been making everything from Mary Janes to sandals and tennis shoes (squeakers included) ever since.

Mooshu Trainers have been seen on Brooke Shields’ daughter, Grier, and I’ve even bought a pair for my little cousin, Bella, who has an abnormal gait. She’ll prance around in those kicks until the cows come home, and even demonstrates that if she walks on her toes, they won’t squeak—proof that the Mooshus are doing their job. Mooshu Trainers are available in sizes 3 (6-8 months) to 8 (24 to 28 months). —Meagan Walker