by Maggie Shea, Chef Magazine

This is an Online Exclusive article for the Foodservice Business section of the September/October issue of Chef Magazine.

Chefs and foodservice operators wear many hats besides their toques. In addition to preparing meals, they often must entertain guests and manage the back of the house, often spending long days--and nights--on their feet. As a result, they always must look presentable but feel comfortable, whether they’re working behind the stove or greeting customers as they dine. Chef has gathered a list of new products that look sharp and feel great.

Timberland Pro Series
For those extra-long shifts, Timberland Pro Series has redesigned its slip-resistant shoes to combat on-the-job fatigue. Formerly known as the Timberland Pro Black Series, the new Timberland Pro Five Star Series shoes feature molded inverted cones that support, collapse and return in key pressure zones for all-day standing comfort and back and leg support.
Timberland Pro Series Men’s Slip-Resistant Mond Slip-On

Timberland Pro Series Women's Parkset

The Five Star Series also features shock absorption on both wet and dry surfaces and has a unique tread design that allows for maximum surface contact and minimal slipping. The premium full-grain leather exterior creates a sleek, polished look. The Timberland Pro Five Star Series will be available in October for both men and women. For more information, visit www.timberlandpro.com, or call (888) 802-9947.

Culinary Classics
The Lucca Chef Coat from Culinary Classics is a presentation jacket that is comfortable enough to be worn in the kitchen. Chefs and restaurant operators who want to look professional while showcasing their personalities can select two fabrics to create their own unique, customized look. This two-tone jacket also has defined lapels, cuffs, side panels and buttons. Visit www.culinaryclassics.com or call (877) 378-4855 for more information.
Culinary Classics Lucca Chef Coat

Skechers
Work out while you work with Skechers Shape Ups for Work, the slip-resistant men’s work shoe that strengthens muscles, increases blood flow and reduces the impact on joints and lower back that comes from standing for long periods on the job. Shape Ups contain a soft polyurethane wedge insert and dynamic rolling bottom to simulate walking on a soft surface like sand.

Skechers Shape Ups for Work men's

The body compensates by activating muscles in the legs, buttocks, back and stomach, which in turn improves coordination, strength and blood flow. In fact, during a six-week trial of Shape Ups, participants lost an average of 3.25 pounds, reduced overall body fat by 1.125 percent and improved lower back endurance by an average of 37 percent. And be on the lookout for the women’s line of Skechers Shape Ups for Work, due out later this month. For more information, visit www.skechers.com or call (800) 746-3411.

Chefwear Inc.
As fall approaches, Chefwear Inc. is unveiling several new items. Riding on the success of its popular Eco-Friendly line of aprons, Chefwear has added new colors: chile, stone, honey, sweet potato, avocado and plum. The one-size-fits-all aprons, based on Chefwear’s classic Bib Apron style, are 100 percent Certified Organic cotton with an adjustable flapless neck loop and a roomy patch pocket. Chefwear also has added two new pant patterns to its line: Carnivale and Cupcakes. For more information, visit www.chefwear.com or call (800) 568-2433.
Chefwear Eco-Friendly Bib Apron in Avocado

BVT-Chef Revival
BVT-Chef Revival has revealed its newest line of Fresh Cool Crew Jackets with three-quarter-length sleeves in warm, attractive colors including Tomato, Spice, Mint and Steel, as well as White. These stylish poly-cotton jackets with a black collar and cuff project a professional image while remaining comfortable in any work environment. Visit www.chefrevival.com or call (800) 352-2433.
BVT-Chef Revival Fresh Cool Crew Jacket in Spice