3 Reasons Why Birkenstock Shoes Never Go Out of Style!

Birkenstock shoes, clogs, and sandals have been around for several decades. As fashion trends come and go, this brand seems to survive and even thrive. What makes them such an enduring favorite? While the answer will vary depending on who you are asking the question, here are three of the most often cited reasons they never seem to go out of style.

3 Reasons Why Birkenstock Shoes Never Go Out of Style!

Comfort Few Other Brands Can Match

People who have worn Birkenstocks for decades will tell you that the first thing one notices about the sandals, shoes, or clogs is how comfortable they happen to be. It’s true that the brand provides a level of arch support that is not found with all other types. You will find that Timberland shoes are popular for the same reason.

People who are used to shoes with plenty of arch support will immediately feel comfortable in a pair of Birkenstock shoes. Those who usually wear shoes offering less support may need a day or two to adjust. After they do, there is no going back.

Environmentally Friendly and Easy to Repair

Durability is another trait that makes this brand stand out for many. Even if the pair is worn daily, it can be years before there is the need for any kind of repair. Once the sandals or shoes do need the attention of a professional, the repairs are usually quick and simple. Best of all, the repairs are usually affordable and hold up for several years before there is the need to have anything else done to your shoes or sandals.

The brand is also known for being environmentally friendly. It’s not just about the materials used for the designs. The company is known to utilize manufacturing methods that help to reduce their carbon footprint. The combination of using environmentally responsible materials with production processes that are kinder to the earth make it all the easier to feel good about buying and wearing the brand.

A Look That Appeals to a Wide Audience

In former decades, Birkenstocks were seen as the province of the counter-culture. Young people loved them and considered them to be a perfect fit for their earth-centered values. As the years passed, many of the same generation continued to wear them whenever the occasion was right. It didn’t take long for their children and grandchildren to also pick up on the design, the comfort, and the environmentally responsible way the brand makes footwear.

The result is a brand that has appeal across several generations and a number of consumer demographics. Just like Mephisto men’s shoes, these appeal to people who may otherwise have little in common. With the ability to attract so much positive attention from such a wide cross-section of consumers, Birkenstock is definitely going to be around for a long time.

If you are among the few who have never tried on a pair of Birkenstock shoes, clogs, or sandals, it’s time to change that. Once you slip them on and notice how comfortable and attractive they happen to be, they will be a welcome addition to your collection of footwear.

Did You Know That the Right Pair of Shoes Can Help Stop Back Pain?

Many things can contribute to the development of back pain. While you already know that a lack of exercise and sitting too much during the day are culprits, have you considered the role that your shoes play in back health? The fact is that choosing to wear shoes that are not right for your feet create stress that goes far beyond the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Here are some things you should consider when choosing any type of footwear.

Did You Know That the Right Pair of Shoes Can Help Stop Back Pain_

What Features Lead to Back Pain?

The features that are included in different sorts of footwear can either minimize the potential for back pain or increase the odds. By knowing which features are more likely to cause problems, you will find it easier to select shoes, boots, and other types of footwear that are better for you and your back.

One of the main culprits happens to be high heels. In particular, heels that are unusually high and create additional stress on the muscles long the backs of the legs will increase the possibility of back pain. Extremely high heels also minimize the ability of the arches to absorb the natural shock to the feet that occurs when people walk. While you don’t have to avoid high heels altogether, it pays to opt for heel designs that do place less stress on the legs.

You will also find that flats of most types increase stress. They also interfere with the ability of the arches to absorb the impact of walking. With flats, you would want to opt for a design that includes more arch support in order to minimize the negative impact.

So What Sort of Shoes Will Work?

Your best options are shoes and boots that fit snugly but comfortably and provide you with ample control of the motion of your feet and ankles. A prime example would be running shoes such as those offered by New Balance Shoes or Sorel Shoes. Many of these designs include support that works in tandem with the arches to ease tension on the feet and lower legs. At the same time, the comfortable fit will allow you to walk naturally and not restrict your range of motion. The result is feet that don’t seem to tire as quickly. You will also notice that your ache is less likely to ache.

When you need to wear something more formal, you can’t go wrong with picking up a pair or two at a Rockport shoe store. Many designs sport low heels that allow you to avoid the pitfalls that can arise with some designs for flats. You also don’t have to be concerned about the problems caused by unusually high heels. What you do get is support for the arches, cushioning for the feet overall, and even some extra support around the toes and the instep. All these elements help to reduce tension on the lower back.

Tips for Choosing the Right Shoes

There are some points to keep in mind when you set out to buy a new pair of shoes. One has to do with the shape of your arches. Most people have arches that are classed as flat, high, or normal. You can determine what type of arch you have by wetting the feet and stepping on a piece of absorbent paper. If the imprint has roughly half of the arch region filled in, then you have a normal arch. When the heel and the ball of your foot is imprinted, you have a high arch. A completely filled in outline of your foot means you have flat arches.

Knowing the type of arch you have will make it easier to focus in on shoe designs that provide the support and stability you need. The good news is that reputable brands like Sorel boots and shoes offer designs that will work fine with flat, high, or normal arches.

The range of motion is another factor you should consider. It matters with any type of shoe, but it’s especially important when you are looking for a high-quality running or walking shoe. When considering a given shoe, take look at the amount of cushioning found around the heel as well as the front area. The goal is to have enough padding to support the area around the toes while also helping the heel to hold up well to some of the shock that the arch is absorbing. While some may tell you this only matter with running shoes, it’s also important for walking shoes. The cushioning becomes even more of a factor when you work in an environment that calls for standing or walking on concrete for most of the day.

You Don’t Have to Sacrifice Looks for Support

The days when shoes tailored to provide more support had to be plain and less than fashionable are long gone. Today, many highly-recommended brands offer styles that are appropriate for all sorts of occasions and include the features needed to reduce the stress that leads to back pain. Like other less brands, these designs are also offered on sale from time to time. That means you can be on the lookout for a Geox shoes sale, find something suitable for work, for fun, and for exercise, and still pay a price that is kinder to your wallet.

Remember that your feet, legs, and back are intended to last for your entire life. How well that works out depends a great deal on what you do to protect your health. Just as you seek to eat a balanced diet, choose a mattress that helps to keep your spine properly aligned while you sleep, and exercise on a regular basis, you must consider the type of shoes you wear. Resist the temptation to purchase shoes that may look great but happen to be made using cheap materials and include little to no support in the design. The result will be fewer trips to the podiatrist, less leg and back pain at night, and in general feeling better for more years.

Ladies, Looking for Good Walking Shoes? Rockport Has You Covered!

You already know that different shoe styles are needed for various occasions. What works fine in the office is not likely to be the best choice when you decide to start walking as part of your evening exercise regimen. What you need is a pair of walking shoes for the half-hour or so it takes to complete your power walk. If you have never considered the brand before, it pays to know that Rockport has a number of walking shoe options worth considering. Here are some of the features you will find helpful.

Ladies, Looking for Good Walking Shoes_ Rockport Has You Covered!

Excellent Arch Support

One of the features that are common with all designs for Rockport shoes for women is the amount of arch support found with each shoe. This support is important since the arches help to absorb the impact that takes place every time you take a step. Since your walk will usually take place on the paved track at the local park or possibly on the sidewalks around your neighborhood, it makes sense to invest in walking shoes that ease stress on the feet and lower legs. Less stress will translate into toning your legs and not having to deal with any soreness or pain when you settle into bed each night.

Cushioning for the Heel

Your heels also need support, specifically in the form of cushioning. There are many brands that offer ample padding for the feet, including such brands as Clarks womens shoes and Sorel shoes and boots. You will find that the cushioning Rockport designs for walking shoes to be just what your heels need. With the right fit, you don’t have to be concerned about any heel rubbing or aches that seem to emanate from the heel after a walk. The Derby Trainer and Trueflex lines offered by Rockport are two examples of walking shoes with plenty of padding for the heel.

Looking Great While You Walk

The main focus may be on the way the shoes offer support and protect your feet, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look great. One of the things you’ll like about Rockport shoes is the way come in different styles and colors. Just like popular brands like Ecco shoes for women, you will find the Rockport lines include styles that fit in with your personal preferences. Along with styles that are ideal for warmer weather, there will be stylish walking boots that easily match any of the Sorel boots you have considered in the past. The fact that your feet look great while you are getting the exercise needed to stay healthy provides one more reason to go on those walks every evening.

If you have never spent time looking at the different shoe and boot options offered by Rockport, today is the day to do a little shopping. You will come across at least one or two pair that are perfect for your needs, fit comfortably, and offer the support you need to get into the habit of walking and loving every minute of your outings.

Choosing Geox is YOUR First Step to Summer Footwear Happiness

Summer will be here in no time and you could use some new shoes. The right type of footwear will make it easier to step out in style and make the most of those summer activities. Here are some of the features that the right type of Geox footwear will provide.

Geox-min

Something Casual and Comfortable

You need a pair of shoes that are ideal for day to day wear. When you are not at work, something casual is the way to go. Think in terms of a shoe that helps to provide plenty of support for your arches and keeps the stress off your ankles and lower legs.

You’ll find that options like the U Nebula is one of the most popular of all Geox men’s shoes. That’s because they look great, come in several different colors, and provide the support you need to walk as much as you like. From taking a stroll in the afternoon to enjoying a run first thin in the morning, one or two pair of this shoe line will be just what you need.

Lots of Style

While casual is great for many summertime activities, there are events that call for something a little more dressy. Even so, you don’t want to go with the heels that are usually reserved for working hours.

One way to go is to look at some of the Geox women’s shoes that strike the perfect balance between stylish and sporty. The DN Callie line achieves that balance and works with everything from jeans to your summer dresses. you’ll love the open toe design as well as the cushioning that ensures you enjoy comfort no matter how long you are on your feet.

All the Right Colors

One of the things you’ll notice about Geox shoes for all genders is the range of colors offered with different designs. That’s important since it allows you to choose shoes that work well with what you already have in the closet.

Perhaps you prefer pastel clothing. If so, you can find shoe colors that will blend in well with your shorts, jeans, tops, and dresses with ease. When you spend most of the summer in denim, rest assured there are basic colors that make it easy to create any type of casual look you want. If you prefer to add a bold touch to whatever you are wearing, some of the brighter shoe colors will add the perfect touch.

Now is the time to visit the Geox shoe store and take a look at what they have to offer. Consider all the things you want to do this summer and focus on shoes designed to provide the support, comfort, and look you desire. Invest in several different styles and it won’t matter whether you are invited for a weekend of camping, a trip to the beach, or the opportunity to go rafting. You’ll always have at least one set of footwear that is perfect for the occasion.

Accomplish Your New Year’s Resolution with a New Pair of Runners

Accomplish-Your-New-Year’s-Resolution-with-a-New-Pair-of-Runners

The New Year will be here in no time. That means sitting down and making a few resolutions. If some of those happen to do with getting in better shape, investing in a pair of New Balance running shoes needs to be at the top of the list. Here are some of the qualities to look for in the shoes and increase the odds of keeping that resolution.

  • Cushioning Matters

One of the first things to consider about any type of running shoes is the amount of padding or cushioning built into the product. Keep in mind that running places roughly three to five times the pressure of your body weight on the feet. People who are of a larger stature in particular want cushioning that helps to absorb some of that pressure. The result is that your legs will not tire as quickly and the feet will not be aching as you seek to make it around one more block

  • Arch Support is a Must

You also want a pair of New Balance shoes that provides a reasonable amount of support for the arches. The cushioning does help, but be on the lookout for the shape of the shoe itself and the materials used to provide the underlying support for the arch. The idea is to make sure the arch is kept in a natural position during the run and the walking that you will use to cool down afterward. When the arches are not overly stressed, it will be easier for you to stick with your exercise regimen and begin to tone those leg and thigh muscles.

  • Running in Style

Who says that you can’t look good while you are out for your morning run? A lot of thought goes into choosing the right type of running outfit for the current weather conditions, so apply the same approach to choosing your running shoes. Find colors that will serve you well no matter whether your running outfit happens to be a jogging suit for colder weather or a pair of shorts and a tank top when warmer weather returns.

  • Shoes for the Long Haul

Price does matter when choosing running shoes. Instead of trying to save a few bucks, invest in a pair of New Balance shoes that will hold up well to a lot of use. Spending more up front means not having to replace those running shoes by the end of the coming year. A quality pair will last you for at least two to three years with little maintenance involved.

Now is the time to start looking at different designs and find out what features are included. Think about colours, cushioning, and the amount of arch support included in that design. Don’t forget to think about how often you plan on running each week and what type of terrain you will encounter. With a little planning, it won’t be hard to find the New Balance shoe option that will make keeping your New Year’s fitness resolution a little easier.

All Terrain – Which Shoes Perform Best From City Streets to Off-Road Trails?

The popularity of running shoes and trail shoes is increasing, and these shoes are very significant for comfortable walking and running. A wide range of terrain shoes is available for running, sports and other activities. It is not an easy task to find the right pair of shoes for yourself that is comfortable, durable and fulfill all of your needs.

For running and walking comfortable shoes has its own value. Many companies are working efficiently to provide the most appropriate shoes according to the need of the individuals. Some of which are Reebok shoes, Rockport shoes for men, new balance running shoes and Naturalizer shoes and much more. All of these offer a large variety of designs, colors, and styles of shoes.

Select the most appropriate shoes for you and do your work more comfortably and remain in your style. Many famous companies are making classy, comfortable and durable shoes for walking, running and other sports activities. While going for shopping for shoes remember the purpose of the shoes and look at the features to fulfill your needs in the most appropriate way.

A perfect pair of running shoes helps the person to run and walk easily and quickly. Always remember that a shoe that is not proper will leave joint pain, sprains, and blisters. During buying the shoes check it carefully and focus on the features such as ankle support, perfect fit, terrain-appropriate design, style and affordability of the shoes.

  • Before purchasing any pair of shoes, make sure that these are fit for your feet perfectly.
  • A good pair of shoes also provides adequate support for the ankle, heel, and upper foot. To avoid the sprains and physical problems, you should check out the ankle support of the shoes you are purchasing.
  • Arch support is also vital for the shoes of runners. Remember your arch style and select the shoes accordingly.
  • Another feature to keep in mind is terrain-appropriate design. Two main types of terrain shoes are
  • Road running shoes
  • Off-road running shoes

Road running shoes are good for paved roads and paths. These shoes offer more flexibility and are lighter than trail shoes.

Off-Road runner shoes are perfect for running on unpaved trails. These shoes are excellent for the runners because they provide stability and shock absorption for the runners.

  • The most important feature you should keep in mind while selecting the running shoes is high-quality construction. The shoes which are made of synthetic leather are an excellent choice for runners because it allows durability, flexibility, quick drying ability and it is light weight.
  • The style and price of the shoes are also crucial. With a proper research and wise decision, you can find the best pair of shoes for yourself in affordable price.

With a little planning and advance research, you can be able to find the perfect shoes for yourself in less time. Always keep in mind your requirements and demands while selecting the shoes for you. Find more about terrain shoes by visiting https://www.walkingonacloud.com/.

Trendiest Unisex Slippers of 2015

Although your shoes can certainly make a statement when you wear them out in public, they also serve a vital purpose when you wear them at home. Slippers are all about warmth and comfort during the colder months, and some of the hottest trends for 2015 come in unisex styles.

Unisex Slipper Features

slippersThis season, it is all about softness, comfort, warmth, and color. You can find several styles of unisex slippers that will suit your needs, but all of the most popular have the following outstanding features:

  • Soft, non-skid sole for comfort as well as protection
  • Impressively soft outer for comfort
  • 100% natural wool material
  • Lightweight for portability and travel
  • Unisex sizes to fit men and women alike

The #1 Slipper Company – Glerups

Glerups started as a hobby but quickly became a mainstream trend in Canada. A Danish woman named “Nanny” Glerups began shearing her own sheep back in 1993 to create hand-sewn slippers to keep her family’s feet warm. Over time, she began giving her slippers as gifts, and the demand grew. Today, Glerups is one of the most popular slipper companies in the world, and the original owners are still responsible for the company’s success today.

Plenty of Options

Glerups manufactures slippers for women, men, and children, but their unisex slippers are by far the most popular choices in 2015. They come in three different styles, too. For the ultimate comfort, choose a boot style that fits over the ankle. If you prefer a below-the-ankle fit, Glerups also offers booties. Finally, for those who want the ease of a slip-on shoe, the company’s clog slippers provide just the right benefit. These slippers come in a rainbow of colors to make everyone smile, as well. You will find black, gray, red, and blue, just to name a few.

All-Natural Products

One of the main things that sets Glerups apart from its competitors is the company’s dedication to all-natural materials. From the 100% wool upper to the double-layered inner that offers you lots of cushion with every step, and even to the all-natural leather or rubber soles for even more comfort and versatility, everything comes directly from the Earth with as little processing as possible.

Breaking Them In

When you purchase your first pair of Glerups slippers, you might notice that they shed from time to time. This is completely natural. The heaviest wool fibers will work their way out over time to leave behind a soft felt material that will hold up to years and years of wear. Although these slippers are incredibly popular as house shoes, they are also perfect for quick jaunts outside thanks to the non-slip rubber sole option. In fact, many people purchase two pairs – one with each type of sole.

When you want the hottest slippers of 2015, whether for yourself or as a gift, then Glerups unisex slippers are one of the best choices. The natural materials and soft insides keep your feet warm and comfortable, and there is nothing else like them on the market today.

4 Must-Have Women’s Shoes for a Beach Vacation [infographic]

4-Must-Have-Shoes-for-a-Beach-Vacation

When planning a beach vacation, one of the most important things you’ll need to do is ensure you have the right shoes. The shoes you wear at the beach will be different from those you wear anywhere else, which means any ordinary pair will not do. These styles are perfect for casual fun, and should definitely be packed in your suitcase.

Birkenstock Shoes

A pair of flat-soled sandals from Birkenstock are a must. These shoes have a flexible sole that makes them ideal for walking on uneven surfaces such as sand and grass. They also slip on and off the foot easily when going in and out of the water. Birkenstock makes sandals available in a multitude of colors to match any bathing suit or cover-up you may have. For more vibrant hues, choose a vivid orange or mint green pair from the Arizona collection. If you’d like a more traditional look, a black or soft toffee pair from the Florida collection could be just what you’re after.

Clark’s Shoes

You probably don’t plan to spend your entire beach vacation along the shore, as you may also plan on hitting the boardwalk or shopping malls during your time away. If so, Clark’s shoes for women are ideal for wearing with the dressier outfits you’ll put on while going out and about. Their Vivica Rome collection is perfect for wearing with casual dresses and skirts, and contains only a slight heel that makes them nice for walking in. They also offer several wedge-style shoes such as those in their Caslynn collection that will allow you to show off your new pedicure.

Merrell Shoes

Perhaps you plan to do some extended walking, but still want your feet to be cool and comfortable. If so, the sandals from Merrell would be perfect, because they will provide your feet with a little added cushioning and support. However, if you plan to go hiking or rock climbing, you may want a bit more protection than what sandals provide. In this case, choose a pair from the Allout Blaze collection instead. These are athletic shoes that will give you all the comfort and support you need to be on your feet for an extended period of time.

Naturalizer Shoes

Does your beach vacation include a romantic dinner or night on the town? If so, don’t forget to throw in a pair of Naturalizer shoes so you’ll be ready for a more formal look. The Danya Taupe shoes are one pair you should consider because of their higher heel and sassy straps that will jazz up any look. To dress up a nice pantsuit, you may prefer the Bradley Black Print shoe instead, which has a slightly shorter heel and more classic lines that make it ideal for pairing with slacks.

These shoes will ensure you are well prepared for anything you encounter during your beach vacation. Be sure to browse our entire selection of Aravon, Cobb Hill and Josef Siebel sandals that will also make nice additions to your summer wardrobe.

Top 4 Women’s Shoes This Spring

Women certainly love their shoes, but they also love staying on top of the latest trends. This spring, four distinct styles are all the rage. Below, lean more about the top four women’s shoe styles this spring. The possibilities are truly endless, and your wardrobe will thank you.

Woven Textures

wovenA woven texture provides either a basket-like appearance or intricate patterns like eyelets or lace. This spring, they have shown up on the red carpet in bold, bright opposing colors as well as in beautiful neutrals. Woven textures make for casual dress shoes, so they are most common in pumps and booties. However, it is possible to find them in stiletto heels and formal styles, too. Wedge heels pair well with this design, as does an open-toed look. The most popular colors for this style are black, beige, and other neutrals.

Pointed Toes

Nothing says sophistication and professionalism quite like a pointed-toe shoe, and spring 2015 sees an insurgence of this popular style – especially in the office. Solid colors like black, navy, and maroon pair well with pantsuits and many women are pairing up brightly colored pointed-toe shoes with their favorite jeans and light sweaters for a casual look that is the definition of class. Flats, pumps, and even stilettos boast pointed toes this season, and with the many colors and styles available, you can take your favorite slacks from the office to a night out on the town in a flash.

Strappy Sandals

A strappy sandal says a lot about a woman’s personality. Sandals that lace high up on the calf are the image of innocence when paired with a swingy sundress. On the other hand, a pair of sandals with open toes and minimal straps is as formal or casual as you would like, depending on how you choose to wear them. Sling-back sandals are not quite as popular this season, but they do pair well with shorts, skirts, and dresses in casual settings. Super-strappy sandals with embellishments make a fashion statement, especially when made from the floral patterns in pastel colors that are so popular this time of year.

Barely-There Athletic Shoes

athleticEvery woman needs a good pair of athletic shoes for those walks in the park or jogging around the block, and this spring, it is all about comfort. In fact, many of today’s most popular athletic shoes are barely there at all. Once again, New Balance takes the cake in 2015 with their bright colors and styles. The lightweight soles and mesh uppers provide a foot-hugging fit that weighs next to nothing. Merrell’s line of cross trainers for 2015 also incorporates a close fit and lightweight feel, and the bright colors provide you with plenty of aesthetic appeal.

Many of the women’s shoe trends for spring 2015 are simply resurgences of classic styles. Choosing the right shoe is about balancing style, comfort, and function. Whether you need a formal shoe to wear to a wedding or you need something comfortable for your morning jog, this spring’s popular styles have you covered.

Walk Score 2014: Canada’s Most Walkable Cities

If you’re the type who likes to lace up your shoes and get from point A to point B by using the good old-fashioned power of your legs and feet, check out Canada’s most walkable cities according to Walk Score’s 2014 ratings.
 1405_graphic-woac-canadas walkable cities

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A Look at Canada’s 3 Very Walkable Cities

1 Vancouver, British Columbia – Walk Score: 78
• Population: 603,000 (8th most populous Canadian city)
• Slimmest Canadian city – 27.8% of population overweight or obese
• Most walkable neighborhoods: Downtown, West End, Strathcona
Healthy lifestyle highlights:
• Over 1,298 hectares of parks, including Stanley Park, the city’s largest
• Skiing, mountain biking, rafting, and hiking in the North Shore Mountains, 20-30 minutes from Downtown Vancouver
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2 Toronto, Ontario – Walk Score: 71
• Population: 2,615,060 (Most populous Canadian city)
• 2nd slimmest Canadian city – 40.4% of population overweight or obese
• Most walkable neighborhoods: Bay Street Corridor, Church-Yonge Corridor, Kensington-Chinatown
Healthy lifestyle highlights:
• Ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and Etobicoke’s Colonel Sam Smith Trail
• Skiing and snowboarding at Centennial Park and Earl Bales Park
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3 Montreal, Quebec – Walk Score: 70
• Population: 1,649,519 (2nd most populous Canadian City)
• 3rd slimmest Canadian city – 41.5% of population overweight or obese
• Most walkable neighborhoods: Plateau-Mont-Royal, Ville-Marie, Outremont
Healthy lifestyle highlights:
• Beaver Lake, a ski slope, and sculpture garden at Mount Royal Park, one of Montreal’s largest green spaces
• Endless exploring in Old Montreal’s cultural attractions, cobblestone streets, bicycle paths, and Old Port
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Brought to you by Walking on a Cloud I walkingonacloud.ca
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SOURCES
http://www.walkscore.com/cities-and-neighborhoods/
http://www.besthealthmag.ca/get-healthy/health/canadas-healthiest-cities-2009
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vancouver
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toronto
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal