The MBT website defines MBT sneakers, trainers, sandals, etc. as being the first physiological footwear. Swiss engineer Karl Muller is the creator of these revolutionary shoes, and the way he discovered the principles behind them is shockingly simple.

You have to wonder why no one thought of this before him, really.

MBT stands for Masai Barefoot Technology. The name comes from Muller’s original epiphany; while visiting the tribal Masai people on a trip to Africa, he discovered they knew nothing of back pain and other common afflictions we in the West suffer. He concluded this was due to their walking barefoot, and not using conventional shoes. Muller hung onto this idea a bit longer, and, while visiting Korea, was shocked to find his own back pain disappeared after walking barefoot through rice paddies.

Back in Switzerland, he got the goods together and created a new line of shoes with the intention of eliminating all those pesky problems hip and trendy shoes have created over the years. As of today, he sells something like 1 million pairs of these babies a year. I know what you’re thinking.. what’s this got to do with the title of this article?Everything.

These shoes put your body back into it’s proper form. Not only that, they force you to use muscles your other shoes have enabled you to neglect. Your butt, thighs, calves and waist are all going to get a workout just from walking around the ‘hood. You can expect improvement in varicose veins, better posture, and they’re also reported to tighten abs.

Personally, I believe these work, and let me tell you why: When I was in my early 20’s (and stupid) I used to walk all over town in a pair of 6” wedge sandals. You would not believe the difference in my calves and waist the next morning. I know it sounds crazy, but using muscles you wouldn’t otherwise use really shows up if you do it right.

I’ve not been able to find another pair comfy enough to do that with, or I would, believe me. I wore those suckers till the straps broke. Which is why I’m excited about these! To be fair, they aren’t the prettiest shoes on Earth, but models and celebs are willing to pay top dollar for them. Thankfully, the clamoring has resulted in slightly more fashionable footwear, so you at least have a choice now.

They come in sneakers, sandals and boots; take your pick and start toning that hot body up!

Cost: Anywhere between $150 and $250.