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Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Lifestyle
- Hindustan Times
Price drop on New Balance shoes: Soothe your soles with these top 8 picks; Stay fit and active
If you're walking for heart health, jogging to clear your mind, or hitting the trails to boost endurance; your shoes make all the difference. The latest price drop on New Balance sneakers means now's the perfect time to upgrade your step and support your active lifestyle. Known for their cushioned comfort, breathable build, and performance-focused design, these sneakers are built to keep you on your feet, literally and metaphorically. Price drop on New Balance shoes: Soothe your soles with these top 8 picks(Pexels) Top 8 New Balance shoes to add to your collection now: Loading Suggestions... Slip into comfort and stride into better health with the New Balance Women's 460 Sneakers. Designed for women who prioritise movement, these sneakers feature breathable mesh uppers and soft cushioned midsoles that provide day-long comfort. Their supportive structure promotes proper foot alignment, helping reduce fatigue and improve posture. Why it's great for wellness: Perfect for light jogging or brisk walks, the 460 promotes cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and keeps joints active without strain. Loading Suggestions... The classic, no-fuss New Balance 500 sneakers are built for everyday movement—because wellness is a lifestyle. These unisex sneakers deliver a sleek silhouette, a padded footbed, and shock-absorbing soles that cushion every step. Ideal for commuters, casual walkers, or anyone on their feet all day, they offer the kind of support that makes you want to move more. Why it's great for wellness: Encourages daily low-intensity activity, which has proven benefits for metabolism, energy levels, and long-term heart health. Loading Suggestions... Blending heritage style with cutting-edge comfort, the New Balance 327 sneakers are as fashionable as they are functional. Their lightweight design and grippy outsole provide excellent control, making them a great companion for walking workouts or treadmill sessions. The roomy fit also reduces pressure points, enhancing foot comfort during long hours. Why it's great for wellness: Makes movement stylish and comfortable—encouraging consistency in your fitness routine, even if it's just a walk to the café. Loading Suggestions... Take your wellness off-road with the Men's Nitrel Sneaker from New Balance. Designed for trail running and hiking, it combines a rugged outsole with a cushioned, breathable interior that adapts to outdoor terrain. It's a performance-first shoe made for those who recharge in nature. Why it's great for wellness: Nature walks and trail hikes reduce stress hormones and boost mental health. The Nitrel keeps your feet stable and supported every step of the way. Loading Suggestions... Step into the great outdoors with confidence in the Women's Nitrel Sneaker. Built for versatile use, this shoe features trail-specific traction, a flexible yet sturdy midsole, and breathable upper materials for comfort during long walks or light jogs. It's your ticket to outdoor fitness that feels fun and freeing. Why it's great for wellness: Supports multi-surface activity, which engages different muscle groups, improves agility, and refreshes your mind. Loading Suggestions... Built for the urban jungle or the mountain trail, the New Balance Men's Nitrel Sneaker balances performance with comfort. Its grippy sole gives you the freedom to run, hike, or explore without slipping, while the cushioned footbed supports endurance. Great for people who like variety in their workouts or commute on foot. Why it's great for wellness: Variety in movement helps improve balance, muscle coordination, and brain function. Loading Suggestions... The Women's 327 sneaker fuses retro design with modern-day support, giving you a shoe that works hard and looks good doing it. With a lightweight feel, reinforced heel, and ultra-flexible sole, this pair is ideal for long strolls, casual biking, or quick on-foot errands. Why it's great for wellness: Keeps you comfortable and active without compromising on style—perfect for wellness on-the-go. Loading Suggestions... For those who live in motion, the 720 Unisex Sneaker delivers vintage charm and modern comfort. This everyday classic offers lightweight support, soft interiors, and a wear-anywhere appeal that fits into any active lifestyle. Why it's great for wellness: Encourages consistent movement throughout your day—whether it's walking to meetings or pacing through calls. Every step you take affects your entire body; from your ankles and knees to your back. That's why New Balance doesn't just make sneakers; it designs orthopedic-forward, biomechanically balanced footwear built for real-life movement. If you're battling flat feet, joint pain, or poor posture, these sneakers offer targeted support through cushioned midsoles, shock-absorbing heels, and arch-cradling insoles. Now with prices dropped, it's the perfect opportunity to swap out your worn-out shoes and upgrade to a health-first sneaker that cares for your body while you move through life. Similar stories for you: 10 Best shoe racks for your home: Reclaim your entryway with aesthetic elegance Best 8 skating shoes with LED wheels, adjustable fits and smooth glides Best 8 marathon shoes for beginners: Run a marathon in style and ace those steps Price drop on New Balance shoes: Soothe your soles with these top 8 picks: FAQs How do New Balance shoes support foot health? They offer contoured footbeds, superior arch support, and cushioning technology that align with your foot's natural shape—minimising fatigue and promoting healthy walking posture. Are these shoes recommended for older adults or beginners getting into walking? Yes! Their lightweight build, extra grip, and orthopedic support make them ideal for fitness beginners, older adults, and anyone prioritising comfort without compromising performance. Do these shoes improve posture or reduce joint pain? Absolutely. The shock-absorbing midsoles and stabilising heel counters reduce the stress on knees and lower back, aiding posture and comfort during long wear. Are New Balance shoes good for people with flat feet or plantar fasciitis? Yes. Models like the 460 and Nitrel series offer structured soles and added heel support, which help relieve pressure for people with flat arches or heel pain. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
DLF re-enters Mumbai market with over ₹800-crore The Westpark project in Andheri; Launches Phase 1 with 416 flats
Delhi-NCR-based real estate major DLF on July 17 announced its re-entry into the Mumbai market with the launch of its premium residential project in Andheri. The first phase of The WestPark will comprise 416 apartments across four towers, with two towers launched on July 17. The company plans to invest over ₹800 crore in the project and expects a topline of over ₹2,000 crore from Phase 1. DLF's The Westpark project in Mumbai will be spread across 10 acres and will feature a mix of 3 BHK and larger apartments ranging from 1,125 sq ft to 2,500 sq ft. In the first phase. (Photo for representational purposes only)(Pexels) "We have launched two towers, and, given the strong response, we plan to launch the remaining two towers ahead of schedule, within the next few days," said Aakash Ohri, Joint Managing Director, DLF Limited. He said that Phase 2, comprising an additional four towers, is expected to be launched next year. According to the company, the entire project is spread across 10 acres and will feature a mix of 3 BHK and larger apartments ranging from 1,125 sq ft to 2,500 sq ft. In the first phase, apartments are priced between ₹40,000 and ₹48,000 per sq ft. The development will also include 845 dedicated car parking spaces, along with separate visitor parking facilities. The project will feature a 50,000 sq ft clubhouse equipped with a wide range of amenities, including a wellness hub, yoga studios, meditation decks, co-working spaces, lounges, and several other lifestyle facilities. Also Read: DLF's Mumbai project set to launch soon as RERA gives green light to first phase with 416 premium apartments DLF RERA approval Last month, DLF received approval from the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) for this phase, which will comprise 416 apartments across four towers. The approved first phase of the project will offer 3, 4, and 5 BHK apartments, along with a limited number of studio units, according to MahaRERA portal. According to details on the MahaRERA portal, the apartment sizes range from 1,048 sq. ft. to 2,278 sq. ft., while the five studio units each measure around 236 sq. ft. Also Read: 'DLF is here to stay in Mumbai and everyone is our competitor', says Aakash Ohri, joint MD DLF's re-entry into Mumbai DLF announced its re-entry into the Mumbai real estate market in July 2023. The company's first project in the city will be developed in partnership with the Trident Group under the Slum Rehabilitation Authority scheme. In 2005, DLF had purchased 17 acres of prime mill land in Lower Parel at a National Textile Corporation auction for ₹704 crore, the highest bid at the time. After the 2008 economic crisis, it changed its plans and sold the land to Lodha, also known as Macrotech Developers, for ₹2,700 crore in 2012.
IOL News
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
White sneakers: The ageless icon and how to keep them clean
You can wear white sneakers with just about anything. Image: Vi Tran / Unsplash White sneakers are a must-have, no matter your age. You don't need to be a fashion expert to know they're as essential as a good pair of jeans. They are timeless, versatile, and loved across generations, making them the ultimate style shortcut. Even my dad, with his classic taste, swears by them, while my Gen Z son practically lives in his Nike Air Force 1s. There are a few fashion items that have stuck around over the years, quite like a pristine pair of white kicks. Nike Air Force 1s are still very popular. Image: Adam Djili / Pexels Even though they started as sports shoes, think tennis shoes, they slowly crept into everyday lives, becoming a symbol of cool comfort. My dad used to rock New Balances, which are now referred to as 'dad sneakers', while my youngest daughter is begging for a pair of Adidas Sambas. Then there's me, now clocking in at 50, who used to love my canvas Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars in my young days. I wore them with just about everything. Now my go-to white sneaker is a classic pair of Adidas Stan Smiths, even though I'm well aware of the fact that the Sambas are all the rage right now. I used to wear my All Stars with everything. Image: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels Yes, the Nike Air Force 1s are still a big seller amongst the young ones, but some are now gravitating towards the retro styles like the New Balance 530s and the Vintage Club C 85 Reeboks. White sneakers are the ultimate chameleon in your wardrobe. They instantly elevate a casual outfit, add a cool edge to something more dressed up, and seriously, they go with everything. They bring a fresh, clean, and effortlessly chic vibe to any look. Youngsters are leaning into retro styles. Image: Konstantin Mishchenko / Pexels Whether you're aiming for athleisure, minimalist, or even a smart-casual ensemble, a pair of white sneakers just works. I've even seen gents rocking them with suits! But let's be real, owning white sneakers comes with one big drawback: they're notoriously difficult to keep clean. One stray puddle, a rogue coffee spill, or even just daily wear can turn your pristine kicks into a dirty disaster. It's a constant battle against scuffs, grime, and that dreaded yellowing. Keeping white sneakers clean can be a challenge. Image: Alena Darmel / Pexels However, with a little bit of TLC, you can keep those white sneakers looking fresh. Here are a few tips on how to take care of yours. Spot clean immediately: The worst thing you can do is let a stain set. For small marks, a damp cloth with a little mild soap or even micellar water (yes the makeup remover) can work wonders. Laces first: Remove your laces and soak them in a bowl of warm, soapy water with a scoop of baking soda. You can even toss them in a mesh bag in the washing machine. Baking soda and vinegar paste: For more stubborn dirt on canvas or rubber, mix a tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of white vinegar to form a paste. Apply it with an old toothbrush, let it sit for a bit, then scrub and wipe clean. Protective spray: Invest in a good stain and water repellent spray. Apply it when your shoes are brand new and clean, and reapply periodically. It creates a barrier that makes dirt harder to stick. Air dry: Always air dry your sneakers away from direct sunlight or heat, which can cause yellowing. Stuff them with paper towels to help absorb moisture and maintain their shape. So, while the struggle is real, the timeless style of white sneakers makes all that cleaning worthwhile. They're not just a trend; they're a fashion legacy, and they're definitely here to stay. IOL Lifestyle
IOL News
5 hours ago
- Business
- IOL News
South African enterprises are rapidly adopting Generative AI but without formal strategies, study finds
IOL South African enterprises are rapidly integrating Generative AI (GenAI) into their operations. Image: Pexels South African enterprises are rapidly integrating Generative AI (GenAI) into their operations, but most are doing so without formal strategies, dedicated leadership, or the infrastructure required to maximise value and minimise risk. This is the key finding of the South African Generative AI Roadmap 2025, based on a study by World Wide Worx in collaboration with Dell Technologies and Intel. Arthur Goldstuck, the CEO of World Wide Worx and principal analyst of the study, released the report on Thursday. The report, which surveys over 100 mid-sized and large enterprises across industry sectors, shows that GenAI adoption has climbed from 45% of large enterprises in 2024 to 67% in 2025. This dramatic rise positions GenAI as the fastest-moving digital trend in the country. However, in a rush to adopt the fast-growing technology, there is a need for organisations to take the foundational steps of planning and governance. Doing so will more clearly connect AI to people and processes and help organisations reap genuine, sustaining return on investment. 'Many organisations are simply unaware of the gaps they're leaving in their systems,' said Goldstuck 'The risk goes beyond the technical, and includes reputational, ethical, and operational vulnerability. While the first step of technology adoption is well underway, our survey demonstrates there is room for operational growth.' According to the report's findings, AI adoption has brought clear benefits to the organisations using it: Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 86% of GenAI users cite increased competitiveness as a result of using AI tools. 83% report improved productivity. 66% see enhanced customer service. Yet, behind these numbers lies an operational gap: Only 14% of organisations have a formal company-wide GenAI strategy. Just 13% have implemented governance or ethical frameworks in the form of guardrails for safety, privacy and bias mitigation. 39% cite high implementation cost as the primary barrier to GenAI adoption. AI maturity requires foundations 'The roadmap aims to help guide stakeholders to fully understand the scope of GenAI, and to build transparent strategies that deliver on its promise without placing enterprises at risk,' says Goldstuck. 'What's most startling is that many companies think using a GenAI tool is the same as having an AI strategy.' As companies race to embed GenAI tools like Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT into business functions, most are overlooking deeper transformation through infrastructure, skills and internal capability. Holistic AI infrastructure, combined with people and processes, is critical to scaling AI deployments and clearly connecting them to tangible return on investment. Shadow AI The report raises the alarm about 'shadow AI' – the unsanctioned use of GenAI by employees without oversight. Currently: 32% of businesses report informal or unregulated GenAI use. of businesses report informal or unregulated GenAI use. A further 20% report a mix of official and unofficial GenAI use. further report a mix 84% say oversight is an important or very important success factor for GenAI deployment. Critical governance measures include clear principles for oversight, accountability, and responsible use. It enables organisations to build trust, reduce risk, and drive long-term value. 'The current use of GenAI is largely taking place in a regulatory and ethical vacuum,' Goldstuck warns. 'The longer this continues, the more harm can be caused, to both businesses and individuals, before these guardrails are in place. 'Without governance, organisations are walking blindfolded into a future shaped by AI. That might be exciting, but it is not sustainable.' The roadmap also identifies two areas of opportunity: Business and Societal impact : Over 75% of respondents have no measures in place to monitor or reduce the energy use and footprint of GenAI. Skills development : A massive 87% of businesses have committed to GenAI upskilling or training of employees. The report cautions that South Africa could find itself divided by the ability to use GenAI wisely and scale deployments as the technology matures. Goldstuck said, 'There's a real risk of a GenAI disconnect in South Africa between those who use GenAI deliberately, strategically and ethically, and those who use it blindly or not at all.' BUSINESS REPORT
IOL News
8 hours ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
High on stardom, low on sobriety: the hidden costs of fame
Controversial Limpopo rapper Shebeshxt recently admitted to drug use, once again highlighting the widespread nature of such struggles. We all dream of fame - the red carpets, the screaming fans, the luxurious lifestyle. But behind every glittering smile often lies a hidden battle with addiction. While the world sees the glamour, many celebrities silently fight demons that fame itself helped create. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Not all that glitters is gold! This is clear from the countless stars who have spoken out about the entertainment industry's darker side, whether through memoirs or candid interviews. Substance abuse runs rampant in the entertainment industry. The world of high-profile events and endless parties makes drugs and alcohol easily accessible, turning them into common coping mechanisms for stress, loneliness and performance anxiety. When celebrities speak openly about their struggles with addiction, they send a powerful message. Stars like Demi Moore, Bradley Cooper and Jessica Simpson have all bravely shared their journeys, reminding us that even the most successful people are not immune to life's challenges. Moore, for example, revealed her struggles on Jada Pinkett Smith's 'Red Table Talk" in 2019, where her daughters spoke openly about how her addiction had impacted them. 'It was not the mom that we had grown up with.' She has since recommitted to sobriety. Substance abuse runs rampant in the entertainment industry. Image: Pexels/Towfiqu Barbhuiya In October 2023, Adele told fans during a Las Vegas concert: 'I stopped drinking maybe like three and a half months ago. I mean, I was literally borderline alcoholic for quite a lot of my 20s.' Cooper also opened up in August 2023 on 'Running Wild With Bear Grylls', saying, 'In terms of alcohol and drugs, yeah … But that had nothing to do with fame. I was lucky. I got sober at 29, and I've been sober for 19 years.' Simpson has been sober since 2017 after years of struggling with alcohol and pills. In her memoir 'Open Book", she wrote candidly: 'I was killing myself with all the drinking and pills.' That year, she told her friends: 'Something's got to stop. And if it's the alcohol that's doing this, then I quit.' Here at home, South Africa also grapples with its share of addiction issues. TKZee star Kabelo 'Bouga Luv' Mabalane battled dependence on alcohol, marijuana and cocaine, spending shocking amounts on drugs. Today, he has maintained sobriety for over two decades and is an outspoken advocate against substance abuse. Comedian Trevor Gumbi, creator of the dark comedy show 'Sober Companion', draws from his own recovery from a long cocaine addiction that began around 2000. He's often spoken about how staying clean has transformed his life. The late rugby icon James Small admitted to abusing cocaine and alcohol and once tried to take his own life. He entered therapy and credited relationships and fatherhood with saving him before passing away in 2019 from a heart attack. More recently, controversial Limpopo rapper Shebeshxt admitted to drug use, once again highlighting how widespread these struggles are. Earlier this year, media personality Penny Lebyane sparked debate when she criticised South Africa's entertainment industry. Taking to X, she wrote: 'South African Entertainment Industry = Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, Promiscuity and Prostitution, Mental illness, Sangomas and Cult Christians, Gamblers, Pimps and Drug lords. The results so far of what looks like success.' South African Entertainment Industry = Alcoholism and Drug Addiction, Promiscuity and Prostitution, Mental illness, Sangomas and Cult Christians, Gamblers,Pimps and Drug lords. The results so far of what looks like success. — PennyLebyane💚RasediLebyane (@PennyLebyane) March 4, 2025 Keesha Scott, co-founder of Guardian Recovery, told 'Independent Media Lifestyle': 'The constant exposure to the limelight, combined with a party-driven lifestyle and easy access to drugs and alcohol, often becomes a breeding ground for addiction.' Scott said what makes it even more complex is that those who seemingly have everything are sometimes less impacted by consequences, legal trouble, financial losses or broken relationships, don't hit as hard when you're insulated by wealth and status. 'This lack of immediate consequence can make the path to recovery longer. Many celebrities are also surrounded by 'yes men' who fear telling the truth, which enables the cycle of substance use and delays real intervention,' she said. Umm-e-Habiba, clinical director at Choice Point Health, added: 'Fame brings attention, influence and opportunity, but it also comes with relentless pressure, identity confusion and emotional isolation. She said in her experience, the root causes of substance abuse in celebrities often include: Constant public exposure and lack of privacy. Persistent anxiety and perfectionism. Unprocessed trauma, masked by outward success. A social circle where substance use is normal and rarely questioned. 'Therapeutic support should be seen as essential to career maintenance, not a last resort. It also helps if managers understand mental health so they can spot the warning signs and take action.' Over the years, countless talented people have lost their lives to addiction. Each story is unique and deeply tragic, but together they serve as stark reminders of the need to address substance abuse and support those who struggle. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) at 011 892 3829 or WhatsApp 076 535 1701.
