Choose shoes with spin of a wheel

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It looks like an exercise wheel for a giant hamster, or maybe something Vanna White might spin.

But it's our "shoe-in" for one of the coolest closet organizers to come along.

The Shoe Wheel by Rakku (which means "rack" in Japanese) holds up to 30 pairs of shoes in a space about 29 inches high and wide, and 13 inches deep.

Here's how it works: You insert the shoes into seethrough pockets through elasticlike bands that keep them from falling out. The shoes are positioned so that one pair will not soil another. Then, just spin to find the perfect shoe for the day. There are some knobs on the sides so it won't spin out of control.

The see-through vinyl pockets are adjustable so you can add shoes of any style, from hiking boots to stilettos. It fits up to men's shoe size 10 1/2.

A lot of customers are placing them in the mudroom or by the front door, says sales director Lori Quon. Since coming out in November, the stock has continually sold out and has had to be replenished.

The wheel costs $65, plus shipping, which is about $14. It comes in silver, black or white.

Coming soon is a half-wheel for $35, and the Rakiddo, $55, made especially for kids.

To order, call 1-800-517-2558 or visit rakkudesigns.com.

Written by Carol McGraw. To comment on "Gotta Have It," contact Barbara Cotter: barb.cotter@gazette.com or 636-0194.

Copyright 2007
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