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
Thrive & Inspire: Kathy Anderson and Eklektik Team Happy ‘When Clients Are Happy’

Kathy Anderson, Eklektik Interiors Owner and Principal Designer, & the Eklektik team

WHAT WAS THE highlight of 2022 at your business? Winning Best of Show at the 2022 ASID Ruby Awards was very exciting. It was an honor to be recognized and supported by amazing industry partners and friends.

Keep Reading Show less

Spritzes at Tavola

WHILE FALL WEATHER might still be a couple of weeks away (boooo), Houston restaurants are rolling out new patio-friendly brunch menus just in time for al fresco season! From spritz carts to toast topped with caviar, these new brunches have it all for fall.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Alex Au-Yeung (photo by Jenn Duncan)

WHEN IT OPENED a few months ago, The Woodlands outpost of acclaimed Katy restaurant Phat Eatery was billed as Alex Au-Yeung's dream restaurant. Unfortunately, Au-Yeung never got to see it come to fruition, as he passed away earlier this year. But the James Beared-nominated chef-owner certainly left his mark — and in honor of what would be his 53rd birthday, operating partners Kevin Lee and Marvin He have organized two pop-up tribute dinners.

Keep Reading Show less
Food