SKECHERS PIER TO PIER FRIENDSHIP WALK RAISES $1.6 MILLION FOR KIDS

 

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It’s been eight years since our Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk started in Manhattan Beach – and we’re so grateful that every year of the walk to date has brought record-breaking donations for children with special needs and schools. This past Sunday, we had our largest attendance yet – 12,000 people – all walking to raise more than $1.6 million for kids.
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They joined all kinds of celebrities – Brooke Burke-Charvet, Sugar Ray Leonard, Camila Alves, Ian Ziering, Denise and Katie Austin, and Tommy Lasorda; a squad of teen TV and movie stars; and Walk performers Asia Monet Ray, Jordyn Jones, New District and Aidan Prince. Sponsors backing the Walk included lead sponsors Nickelodeon and NBC4 Southern California, and national and local companies from every industry: retail, finance, technology, fitness, foundations and more.

When we look back at our very first Walk, we’re astounded by how it’s grown from a passionate community event into the nation’s largest for kids with special needs and education. In spite of its growth, we’re thrilled to see that it remains the same: the focus continues to be on our kids, and how we can achieve amazing things together to help them thrive.

The Friendship Foundation has been a huge gift for children with special needs and their families, and this year’s funds will continue to support their efforts with programs, peer mentoring, sporting events, and field trips. Education foundations will also be able to improve our schools by retaining teachers and programs, making classes smaller and upgrading facilities and technology. And we continue to provide scholarships to deserving children – $100,000 will be given in 2017. All this is because so many have given so much (an incredible $7 million over the years).
img_0604A huge thanks to everyone who participated this year – and to all of you, who have joined more than 4 million viewers engaged with our cause online. In addition to Nickelodeon and NBC4 Southern California, a grateful shout out to Wells Fargo, Steel Sports, The Claudette and Ethan Rickett Care Foundation, Ross, Zappos.com, Vertra, WSS, United Legwear & Underwear Co., Mattel, Body Glove, Premier Displays & Exhibits, Kids Foot Locker, JAKKS Pacific, Marshalls, Cushman & Wakefield, Caskey & Caskey, Siltanen & Partners Advertising, Continental Development, Northrop Grumman, Equinox, Chevron, and so many others who have provided funds and support to provide a better future for children.

You can learn more about the SKECHERS Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, watch our videos and see how we help children with special needs and schools online at skechersfriendshipwalk.com and on Facebook.

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BLOG TAKEOVER: LITTLE SOUTHERN LIFE LIGHTS UP HALLOWEEN

Skechers lights for Halloween night! Amanda of Little Southern Life gives us an inside look on how she makes this spooky holiday so special for her kids, from head to toe.

This time of year is so much fun for our family. Not only do we get to do more out in the community, but I get to be creative with my little ones. With colder temperatures and fall colors comes the search for the perfect Halloween costume. I love the pre-made choices, but also have so much fun with the do-it-yourself flashes of brilliance. And of course, there’s the candy!

One of the finds I’m most excited about this year is Skechers’ line of light-up children’s shoes. Aside from the fashion statement they will make stomping to their hearts’ content, I know my little ones will be visible and easy to find in the hustle from house to house.

There are perks to buying a pre-made or DIY costume, so it really boils down to what type of work you want to put into it. When your kids are really specific about what they want to be, I vote to just purchase a pre-made from the store and save yourself the stress. This year, Nolan was very outspoken about the costume that he wanted. He is obsessed with superheroes and especially loves the Dark Knight – Batman! He also likes army men, so I decided to let him rock two. We go to several fall festivals and parties, so he will get use out of them before trick-or-treating as well.

Harper decided that she wanted to be a princess, and with so many choices she couldn’t decide on which princess, so I decided to make her a DIY costume. This was such a fun activity for me because I knew just the staples to use for her outfits. June and January just released their new pieces and they are all basic styles that work really well when making DIY costumes. I also decided to give her a second costume (there’s no way she would ever let it go if Nolan had two and she only had one). The June and January jumper works perfectly for a rocker look!

I paired both of the children’s outfits with the Skechers light-up sneakers. Coordinating the right shoes with Halloween costumes is fun and easy with so many styles and colors to choose from. Skechers’ light-up shoes enhance the children’s costumes, and help me keep track of them while they are trick-or-treating. And light-up shoes excite all children, so it’s a win-win both during and after Halloween.

For Nolan’s Batman costume we went with S LIGHTS: FLASHPOD – SCORIA. These have white lights along the bottom when he takes a step or stomps his feet (mostly stomping, because he enjoys watching them light up). Every time they light up, it makes him feel even more like a super hero. Nolan has had so much fun already that he has decided to forgo his name this week and only answer to “Batman!”

The shoes he is wearing with his army costume are HOT LIGHTS: DAMAGER II – ADVENTURE 2.0 and they have buttons that you press to light up each shoe. The lights change colors if you press the button twice and stay on until you turn them off. When Nolan is pretending to be an army man, the light comes in handy for his covert missions, along with the compass that is on top of each shoe.

Harper has the Skechers Twinkle Toes shoes for both of her costumes. For her princess costume, we went with TWINKLE TOES: SHUFFLES – STARLIGHT STYLE. These are gold with pink bows and gemstones on the toes that light up when you move in them. They really do look like princess shoes; she always asks to wear them when she plays dress up!

For her rocker look, we went with Skechers’ high-top Twinkle Toes. TWINKLE TOES: SHUFFLES – SWEETHEART SOLE immediately caught my eye when I was looking for shoes for her costume. This style screams punk rock chick, and are really edgy but girly at the same time. She loves the sparkles and they are pink, her favorite color.

No matter what costume your little one decides to wear for Halloween, light-up Skechers are the way to go for footwear. Not only do they add a fun pop to any outfit, they make it easier to keep up with your child in a crowd. Nolan and Harper love wearing them in the dark and giggling at the cool light that comes from their shoes. I love that they get excited about their sneakers and are involved in their own style!

Learn more about Amanda’s Little Southern Life with her beautiful family on her blog, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

WE APPRECIATE YOU! NOW ENTER TO WIN SHOES!

@vinzyy_ via Instagram

We love that our fans all operate at the beat of their own drum. Each of you with your unique style and vision on life are beautiful in your own way. And nothing excites us more than when you tag us on social media!  These images help us get to know you and define the versatility of Skechers style. We appreciate so much that you’re eager to share them with us…and the world!  From working out to chilling at the beach–from play dates to rainy afternoons–from the city to the country, you prove that Skechers knows no boundaries and you inspire us to make sure we never let you down.

It’s #CustomerAppreciationDay at Skechers, but we can tell you’re far more than just a customer when it comes to this brand and that is exactly why we appreciate you so much.  To illustrate how much we adore you and your support of Skechers, we’re giving away FREE shoes!  Scroll past these awesome images to learn how to enter.

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Adanne Osefoh via Facebook
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@aana_mz
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@colin_ins
@erin_alisha
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Oscar Madison NYC via Facebook
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Cool shots, right?  Now for the fun part…here’s your lucky chance to win a FREE pair of Skechers!  It’s super easy to enter–just leave a comment below and tell us how many pairs of Skechers you own or when you wore your first pair or anything to get across how you are a big fan of Skechers! We’ll be selecting THREE winners to receive FREE shoes. Leave your comment ASAP as the cutoff for entries is Friday, October 21 at 4PM PDT. We can’t wait to read what you have to say!  Good luck and thanks again for supporting Skechers!

Complete rules for this blog comment contest are available here.
Top image courtesy @vinzyy_ via Instagram.

BLOG TAKEOVER: FALL STYLE WITH ALLIE’S FASHION ALLEY

Now that you’re shopping for Skechers boots to wear this fall, what’s the best way to style all these great new looks? We asked Allie’s Fashion Alley to share some cute pics and tips!

Fall is my favorite season, partially because I get to go back to wearing comfy boots. Boots are so versatile and there’s no need to worry about the state of my pedicure. I’m so glad that Skechers generously hooked me up with some new kicks for this boot season. Read on to see how I styled two versatile pairs.

LOOK ONE: Slip Dress + Skechers

Layering a slip dress over a t-shirt is a major trend this season. This is a dressed up/dressed down look that can be worn for day or night. Skechers’ Amarillo booties in Chocolate Brown give this look a western touch. They’re made of real suede and have a super cushioned insole. Plus, the height of the heel is perfect to wear all day. It’s so hard to find boots that are both stylish and comfortable, but Skechers has nailed it with their premium fall boot collection.

LOOK TWO: Olive Suede

I love mixing cozy and luxe textures for fall. Suede is definitely my favorite. This look is all about the details with a lace-up tank sweater and pleated suede skirt. The Agenda boot in Olive (at select Skechers retail stores) is the perfect sleek shoe to complete this look. Olive is one the top colors for fall, so I’ve stocked up. It’s a neutral that’s versatile, but more fun than black. I think the brown leather wrap around straps on these boots really make them special.

Allie is the founder of Allie’s Fashion Alley. She’s a business student and social media strategist in Chicago. Keep up with her latest looks on Instagram.

BLOG TAKEOVER: LIFE ON CAMPUS

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Finding your way as a first time college student at a new school can take time and effort. As one of our favorite Skechers team members is just over a month into her third year at Stanford, we asked her to give us some insight and tips on surviving campus life and how Skechers fits in to her Fall Semester. 

In October on campus, it can be especially hard to dress correctly for the weather when it’s freezing in the morning, 80 degrees by the afternoon, and anywhere in between in the classrooms! Ankle booties like the Skechers Lovely keep you warm in the mornings and during cold classes, but allow for ventilation when it heats up. Light sweaters are crucial for layering during this transitional time of year, and they’re especially versatile when thrown on over a breathable tank top.

October is also a time when you might feel a lull in motivation after getting settled into the swing of things on campus. So try to remember the excitement you had at the beginning of the semester! Maybe you’ve stopped writing down your assignments or meetings in your calendar, or maybe you never had one to begin with. Maybe your exercise routine has fallen flat as you’ve become busy with other commitments. As fall kicks into full gear, take the time to review your habits and make sure you’re still doing your best to stay organized.

The leather Relaxed Fit Palen – Demore for men or the burgundy Skechers Originals OG 82 for women deliver on comfort through long study sessions.

Here are some of my favorite study tips to ensure success in class:

  • Get a planner or use the calendar in your phone!
  • Schedule when you are going to do which homework. Even if you don’t get to the exact assignment you scheduled, you’ll still have a dedicated time to work on whatever you need to.
  • Find your ideal study environment. Do you need silence to read? Or do you like having people around? Are study groups your thing? Try out different options to see what you like best.
  • In class, if the professor defines a key concept or term, write it down in your notes.
  • Also take notes on assigned readings. That way you’ll have a quick summary of the main points and what you think about them, and you can review those notes before the test – instead of having to skim the whole reading over again!

The men’s Equalizer 2.0 or the women’s Skech-Air Varsity are great footwear options for a quick workout.

And when your brain needs a break, workout your body to relieve school pressure! Consider these suggestions to make the most of your fitness time:

  • Just like you should do for studying, schedule in time for exercise. This will keep you more accountable because you know you have the time to work out! Thinking ahead will also help you prepare better, for example wearing your exercise clothes to class so you can work out right after.
  • Get going with a pump-up playlist – whether it’s EDM, pop, or rock, make sure it’s full of your favorite upbeat music.
  • Find a form of exercise you actually enjoy! There are so many different ways to do cardio, toning, and resistance exercises. For cardio try cycling, jogging, speed-walking, swimming, dancing, or anything else that gets your heart rate up. As for more focused muscle building, try a barre class, weightlifting, Pilates, or yoga! If you look forward to exercising, it will be so much easier to find the time for it.
  • Your campus gym can also be a great resource. Look into whether they offer free or discounted access and explore everything it has to offer. Don’t be afraid to wander around slowly learning the ropes of the machines or weights – that’s what they’re there for! Everyone has to start somewhere.

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What are your tips and tricks for staying motivated both academically and on the fitness front through the experience of college? Tell us in the comments!

BLOG TAKEOVER: FALL MOMMY AND ME STYLE

As we transition into autumn, we asked Laura Boswell of Walking in Memphis in High Heels for some seasonal style thoughts for mom and daughter.

I work all day Monday through Friday, so come weekend, it is mine and Leighton’s favorite time to get out and about together! As soon as the clock hits 8AM, Leighton is up. I am usually already ready in my favorite running gear and my Skechers Flex Appeal 2.0 sneakers. Once she gets up, it’s off to our favorite park in the stroller! Our absolute favorite place to be is outdoors. We do lots of running, strolling and of course we squeeze in some time on the playground too. Leighton’s Skech Appeal – Fabtastic sneakers are perfect for our fun morning out and about together.

This past weekend it was still hot (like summer weather hot!) so we still got to dress in our favorite summer outfits complete with a Skechers Originals slip-on for me and a cute Twinkle Toes moccasin for her. I love how easy these shoes are to throw on. Come Saturday and Sunday I am all about comfort after dressing up for the corporate world. There is nothing easier than sliding on a pair of comfy shoes and jeans to chase your toddler around. ; )

Fast forward to this week, and it finally feels like fall! Like most everyone, fall is my absolute favorite time. It’s when my husband and I started dating, got engaged and when Leighton was born. It just brings about so many special memories. My other favorite part of fall is the fashion. I love living in warm cozy layers and boots. I’m actually even keeping my fingers crossed for a little snow come winter just so I can pull these adorable Skechers Duck boots out even more. Now I’m just waiting on Leighton’s feet to get a little bigger so I can get her some big girl boots too!

You can usually find me and Leighton at the park strolling, babywearing, riding bikes or doing something outdoors. It is definitely our escape and our way to spend special mom and toddler time. Thanks for spending a little time with me and Leighton today, and I hope everyone has a great October!

Check out Laura’s blog—Walking in Memphis in High Heels—for style tips and fashion inspiration. And be sure to follow and like her on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to see more of her latest seasonal looks.

BLOG TAKEOVER: WORKOUT AT HOME WITH SARA HALEY

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On this Must-do Monday, we asked prenatal and postnatal fitness expert Sara Haley to give us a few tips on easy at-home Fall workouts for busy parents.

Fall is one of the busiest times of year for my family. This year my oldest started kindergarten, and my youngest started preschool three mornings a week. Needless to say, our lives have been full of transitions lately, which also means workouts have fallen lower on the priority list. I’m determined to get my workouts back on track before fall is over. If you’re in the same boat as me, or just looking to switch things up, here are some ways to workout at home and make getting or staying fit a priority this fall.

GET OUTSIDE . . . while you still can! I currently live in Southern California, so this isn’t as much of a problem for me. I was, however, raised in the Chicago suburbs and spent years in New York City before kids, so I know the reality of winter workouts. Take advantage and do as many workouts as you can outside while the weather is nice. You’ll be kicking yourself come January if you don’t. Skechers Flex Appeal 2.0 are perfect for slow or fast walks. If you’re a mama, I have some great FREE stroller workouts available on my YouTube channel.

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SWITCH IT UP WITH FALL INSPIRED EXERCISES – As a mom, I sometimes have some “entertaining” to do during my workouts, so this Peek-a-BOO Ghost Squat works my butt, legs and heart while keeping my two-year-old entertained. Squat down (option to take hands covering your face). Push off the floor (opening arms and yelling “Boo”) before landing back in squat. Do a total of 10 in a row. Rest and repeat three more times. I love the Skechers Flex Appeal 2.0 air cooled memory foam because it adds support during plyometric exercises like these.

USE PROPS – I love props, or “toys” as I refer to them at home. They make things fun and different, so I don’t get bored, which ultimately means I workout more often. One of my favorite props for fall is of course a pumpkin! Skechers Skech-Air Extreme – Evolve give me the support I need to get the most out of these “Pumpkin Chops” that work the core, legs and butt.

I hope you have the happiest and healthiest fall and are inspired to get outside, perform some fall inspired exercises and use some new props!

Sara Haley is known for her expertise in fitness through pregnancy and motherhood. She has developed a series of workout DVDs for soon-to-be and new moms and speaks often about prenatal fitness on news programs as well as in major newspapers and magazines. Sara is sharing fun and effective Fall-inspired exercises all through October on her blog at sarahaley.com and be sure to follow @sarahaleyfit on Facebook & Instagram for additional healthy lifestyle tips and inspiration.

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