I’m a fan of anything that can help me maximize the benefits of my workouts; maybe that’s because I believe the harder I work, the faster I can get the heck out of the gym. For this reason, I was really excited to try Reebok’s new EasyTone sneakers. These running shoes have balance pods built into the soles to create a natural instability and an ever so slight wobble in your step when you walk. The pods are designed to behave like the balance balls – intentionally keeping you slightly off-balance and therefore increasing muscle activity. Reebok claims the shoes encourage toning in three key areas of the leg – your hamstrings, glutes and calves. And when you walk or run in them you get 28 percent more glute activation, and 11 percent more calf and hamstring activation. I decided to put them to the test on the treadmill. The first thing I noticed was that they’re heavier than my usual sneakers. Whether it was this or the balance pods at work, my run was slightly more punishing than normal. I definitely felt like I was working harder than usual. It will probably take me a few months to see the results reflected on my glutes, but if my butt looks 28 percent better after a few months in my EasyTones I’ll gladly ditch my lightweight runners for good.

Available at athletics stores across Canada, $99.99

Check out our past favourite things from October, September, August.

What do a former Beatles member and the Gap have in common? They’re both lucky enough to have uber-talented designer Stella McCartney in their back pocket and part of their fashionable family. Stella, the stylish mother of three, will launch her first line of children’s clothing, in collaboration with the Gap next week (cue the line). And, yes we’re one of the few countries that are lucky enough to get the reasonably priced collection.

You’re going to love the line because it brilliantly synthesizes her clean, high-street sensibility with mom-approved pieces that make sense (but are still stylish). Here are some must-haves from the 70-piece line that you’ll want to pick up: For boys and girls snatch up the Sgt. Pepper-style jacket (or currently I’ve heard it called a Majorette) which screams band camp and grab a few of the heather grey cashmere hooded sweatshirts with padded elbow detailing. Also stock up on some of the lined, plaid button downs, and the cashmere leopard print sweater in dark grey for boys and extra long for girls.

Trust me, early morning dress up just got easier and more stylish.

Available at select GapKids and babyGap across Canada as of November 4. Prices range from $32-$128.