Every once and a while, I receive a product pitch from a publicist that just oozes with ingenuity and cleverness.

U*neaks Customizable Footwear was that product.

You see, in my 4-year-old fashionista daughter’s eyes, shoes are a huge problem in the wintertime. During the warmer climes, she has a variety of flip-flops and sandals but once the temperatures turn, she is limited to only a couple pairs of stodgy shoes. Horrific, I know.

And then we stumbled upon U*neaks. U*neaks patented customizable footwear are sneaker-style shoes with side clear panel windows and specially designed socks that allow kids to continuously customize their shoes by simply changing their socks. Pair the shoes with any of U*neaks’ double-sided decorated socks for footwear that’s fun and chock full of personality.

Just like my daughter.

With a market launch of nine styles of shoes (sizes 8 through 3, targeting kids pre-school through elementary age) and over 29 styles of socks, boys and girls will find something for every mood, outfit, and day of the week. The footwear concept was developed by company founders Steve Braynock and Jeff Gabriele, company CEO, and included collaboration with the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan, New York.

“Our product range is designed to meet the varied fashion desires of the younger set,” says Gabriele. “U*neaks allow a child to express themselves and their style through the footwear combinations they choose. Best of all, it’s simple to do.” The shoes range from Velcro versions for preschoolers to cross training, fusion and hip lace-up skater styles for the older set. All shoes are high-quality construction including full-grain leathers, breathable mesh, and custom comfort cushioning.

Collectible sock prints for customizing include: candy, flowers, rainbows, hearts, safari, dinosaurs, flames, sports, camo, graffiti, checkered flags and more. Each pair of ultra soft seamless socks offers two different prints. Also in stores by October 25th will be the launch of Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa licensed sock styles just in time for the November 7th theatrical release of the highly anticipated DreamWorks Animation film.

The sneaker-sock systems range from $34.99 -$39.99 USD for the shoes and $4.99 to $5.99 for each pair of two-sided socks.

We are pleased to offer one lucky mama the U*neaks shoe of her choice. To enter, simply email us at with “Uneaks” in the subject line. Please include your mailing address. Contest deadline is November 15, 2008.

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