With New Sneaker Line, Houston Beauty-Biz Giant Wants Hairstylists to Put Their Best Foot Forward

With New Sneaker Line, Houston Beauty-Biz Giant Wants Hairstylists to Put Their Best Foot Forward

FAROUK SYSTEMS, A Houston-based beauty-biz and spa-industry giant known for its leading brands Chi and BioSilk, has created Chi Footwear for professional hair stylists, a line of podiatrist-approved line of sneakers. Former hairstylist Farouk Shami, the founder and chairman of the company, collaborated with designer Joan Orozco on the line.


The idea is that, since hairstylists are on their feet all day, they need sneakers that are not only functional and comfortable but also stylish.

With a heavy focus on foot health, Chi Footwear developed a sneaker that is said to protect from bacteria, poor circulation, sweat, odor and foot fatigue. The shoe uses graphene technology, which Chi says is stronger and more flexible than other sneakers, a lightweight material that provides relief for plantar fasciitis, provides stability and balance and reduces muscle fatigue. The graphene foam inserts also address acupuncture points which disperses the weight evenly for pain-free movement and may even relieve lower back pain and pressure.

Available in women's and men's sizes, these lightweight and flexible sneakers feature a signature "horus" eye — a symbol recognized throughout ancient history. The embroidered "horus" eye represents protection, good health and energy. There are 15 pieces in the line, and they sell for $269 each. They come in a variety of colors.

Farouk Systems founder and chairman Shami Farouk wins an industry award earlier this month (photo from @farouksystems on Instagram).

Shami founded his eponymous company in 1986 to provide the professional beauty industry with advanced technology based on "education, environment and ethics," he says. His vast lines include curling irons, blow dryers, brushes, combs, shampoos, waxes, pomades and much more. He ran unsuccessfully for Texas governor in 2009, and is reportedly pals with former president Donald Trump, on whose Apprenticeshows he appeared twice.

Style
Ancient French Wellness Cures Reimagined at Houston’s Escape Spa: The Power of Vichy

Serial entrepreneur and spa visionary LeBrina Jackson

NESTLED IN THE heart of France, the town of Vichy holds a rich history in the world of wellness and hydrotherapy. Acquiring fame for their alkaline springs in the 17th century, the Romans were among the first to recognize the therapeutic benefits of the springs. They established a French spa known as “Vichy,” which still exists today and continues to attract spa-goers from around the world to experience the transformative effects of hydrotherapy.

Keep Reading Show less

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music

Get to Know Bianca:

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music, is a dynamic force in the public relations industry. She is known for her tenacity, empathy, and bilingual communication skills. As a local publicist with national reach, she blends local insights with broader impact, telling compelling stories that foster business growth and create opportunities.

Keep Reading Show less

The pool at Zen

THE MANAGER OF Grand Velas Riviera Maya says a funny thing as she tours a writer around the 206-acre all-inclusive between Cancun and Tulum. “I still get lost sometimes. If I forget what I’m doing and stop looking at the signs, I wind up in the parking lot.”

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places