(Running) The Barefoot Shoe
What the heck are these for?
Go Natural!
They say you should go nude, or almost nude! At least for your feet that is.
Minimalist shoes have taken off in recent years and have become the popular alternative to the traditional running shoes.
Believers of barefoot running say that, just below not wearing anything at all, minimalist shoes are best, because they allow for far greater amount of natural motion by the foot. But traditional running shoes, they say, impede this movement, putting more stress on the feet and legs which can affect the lower back.
In today’s modern world it’s a little hard to accept that you should wear no shoes at all if you want to run. If on the beach, this can be great, but what about running on a trail, with sharp pebbles and other shards that can penetrate the skin? You’ll be stopped in your tracks, and this could lead to infection. Minimalist shoes offer the most natural range of movement, while at the same time protecting your feet from pesky sharp objects with penetration-resistant material.
Things to Consider
If you are considering switching to minimalist running shoes, just know that these shoes are completely different than what you’ve been running around in. You’re starting from square one, and you will have to readjust your form of running. This can take time. When you switch, go light and easy at first to really allow yourself to adjust. These types of shoes really do feel like nothing you have ever worn before.
