Gabby Reece's Journey: How Her Size 12 Feet Inspired a Tomboy Style

SHOE SENSATIONS! Former Volleyball Pro Gabrielle Reece Dishes on Her Turbulent Shoe History and Why She's Team Vionic

In a shocking turn of events, former professional volleyball player Gabrielle Reece has traded in her Nike swoosh for the iconic Vionic logo. The 55-year-old sports icon, known for her towering height of six-foot-three and size 12 feet, has partnered with podiatrist-beloved brand Vionic as their first-ever well-being ambassador.

But what's behind this shoe-swap? Well, let us tell you – it's a tale of woe, frustration, and finally, empowerment. Reece, the author of The New York Times bestseller "My Foot is Too Big For This Glass Slipper," has been open about her struggles with finding shoes that fit her larger-than-life feet.

"I was a size 11 when I was younger, but shoes only came in sizes up to 10 for women," Reece told thescholarlynote.com. "I tried shoving my feet into those tiny shoes, and let's just say it wasn't pretty." The athlete-turned-author joked that she'd often craft her outfits around whatever shoes she could find – a clever workaround, but not exactly the most elegant solution.

Fast forward to Reece's post-pregnancy life, where things got even more complicated. "After having my two daughters, I realized I'd ballooned up to a size 12," Reece revealed. "Finding shoes that fit was like searching for a needle in a haystack – and I wasn't about to settle for anything less than perfect."

Reece's shoe struggles were so bad, she even wrote an entire book about them! But despite the challenges, the sports legend refused to give up on fashion. "I'd often wear men's loafers," Reece confessed. "It was easier that way – and besides, I've always been a bit of a tomboy at heart."

So, what changed? Why did Reece finally decide to join forces with Vionic, a brand she'd already fallen in love with? According to the athlete, it's all about alignment – both personal and professional. "Vionic's values resonate deeply with me," Reece explained. "They put science first, then fashion – which is music to my ears."

Reece has been a fan of Vionic for years, but when they approached her to become their first-ever well-being ambassador, she knew it was the perfect opportunity to spread the word about the brand's incredible shoes. And let's be real – who wouldn't want to partner with a company that understands the importance of comfort and support?

But Reece's relationship with Vionic goes beyond just a business partnership. As someone who's been in the wellness game for decades, she's seen firsthand the impact good footwear can have on one's life. "My husband, Laird Hamilton – yes, that Laird Hamilton," Reece giggled, "we're both super passionate about wellness and living our best lives."

The couple's approach to health is all about balance – not perfection. "We don't believe in being perfect or never enjoying chocolate cake," Reece explained. "But we do think it's essential to prioritize self-care and make healthy choices a part of your daily routine." And for Reece, that includes regular strength training, water workouts, and plenty of walking.

When asked about her fitness journey, Reece was refreshingly candid. "I'm not just working out for sport anymore," she revealed. "Now, I focus on performance – but the kind you need to live life to the fullest." And with Vionic by her side, Reece is ready to take on whatever challenges come her way.

The partnership between Reece and Vionic is more than just a business deal – it's a testament to the power of self-love and acceptance. As someone who's been open about their struggles with body image and size inclusivity, Reece is using her platform to spread a message of hope and empowerment.

So, what can we expect from this dynamic duo? Well, Reece has already begun working on a shoe design with Vionic – the first sneaker she's created since partnering with Nike all those years ago. And let us tell you, it's going to be BIG – in every sense of the word!

Stay tuned for more updates from thescholarlynote.com as we follow Gabrielle Reece and Vionic on their exciting new journey together!