Are Simple Running Sneakers Still In Style?

Podiatrists have highlighted the benefits of minimalist running shoes for strengthening feet and calves. They recommend the Xero Shoes Mesa Trail II Running Shoe, which has a zero drop sole, 3.5mm lugs, and is vegan-friendly. Although minimalist footwear may not be as popular today as it was in the early 2000s, the niche remains alive and ever-evolving with new shoes emerging every year.

Modern running shoes may promote poor foot health, but minimalist shoes can protect feet from the terrors of running. While minimalist shoes are good for some people, they may decrease performance in some populations. They can be used as a daily running shoe, training tool, or a lifestyle choice, enhancing the connection with the ground.

The popularity of running barefoot or in minimalist shoes has recently increased due to claims of injury prevention and enhanced running. This review covers 10 favorite barefoot running shoes, their advantages, and practical tips for transitioning to them.

Minimalist running shoes generally fall somewhere in the middle in terms of weight, offering a degree of cushioning but not in excess. This makes them a good choice for those looking to improve their running performance and comfort.

Was barefoot running a fad?

Running barefoot on hot pavement or cold weather can damage the soles of the feet, as well as the feet from nails, glass, and pebbles. Even if heel strikes are eliminated by running barefoot, shorter strides mean the feet hit the ground more often, so the benefits of reducing the force of impact might be offset by the increase in frequency of impact. The benefits of barefoot running are being oversold, and novelty is driving the trend. The discussion about barefoot running can sometimes get heated, with runners often trading training tips and seeking advice on Internet forums.

Craig Payne, a senior lecturer in podiatry at La Trobe University, warns that the barefoot running community has an appalling track record at misinterpreting, misuse, and misquoting research. He argues that not one risk factor study on running injuries has linked high impacts to running injuries, yet the barefoot running community claims that the evidence shows this and considers high impacts as the cause of all injuries.

What are the disadvantages of minimalist shoes?

The lack of cushioning, limited arch support, and sensitivity to cold inherent to barefoot shoes render them uncomfortable on hard or uneven surfaces. It is possible that they may not provide sufficient support for individuals with specific foot conditions, particularly those with flat feet or high arches. Furthermore, they may not provide sufficient insulation in cold weather and may present difficulties on rough or rocky surfaces.

What do podiatrists think of barefoot running?

Barefoot running, or running without shoes, has gained popularity as it is believed to be more natural and beneficial for the feet and bodies. However, most people require more support and extra shock absorption when running on hard surfaces, and barefoot running may pose a risk of stepping on sharp objects. New studies examining the body’s response to running in birthday shoes or skimpy footwear suggest that many people’s expectations are not being met.

The most definitive study, published in The Journal of Applied Physiology, examined whether landing near the front of the foot during running is more physiologically efficient than striking the ground first with the heel.

Are minimalist shoes good for running?

Minimalist shoes promote a low-impact gait by focusing more on the midfoot or forefoot, rather than the heel. They can be beneficial for learning how to run with a midfoot or forefoot strike, as heel striking is generally considered a higher-impact stride. The thin cushioning in minimalist shoes improves the connection to the ground, improving “proprioception” and fine-tuning running mechanics. They are lighter than traditional shoes, requiring slightly less muscle power to lift feet off the ground with each stride.

However, not everyone can successfully run in minimalist shoes due to strain on the Achilles tendon and potential medical issues like plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, flat feet, bunions, or hammer toes. It is recommended to consult a doctor or podiatrist before deciding whether switching to minimalist shoes and potentially altering your running gait will be beneficial or harmful for you.

When not to wear barefoot shoes?

Before switching to barefoot shoes, consult a podiatrist or orthopedist if you have any pre-existing foot, ankle, or joint conditions. Some individuals may not tolerate barefoot shoes, such as those with arthritis of the big toe or mid foot. Pre-existing foot conditions like plantar fasciitis may require a slower transition. People with unstable foot structures or severe flat feet may also need to continue using orthotics inside their barefoot shoes. Dr. Cucuzzella advises not to go from zero to 100, as foot and ankle muscles will adapt to the load placed on them when wearing barefoot shoes.

Are barefoot shoes still popular?

The minimalist or zero drop shoe, also known as the barefoot shoe, is currently trending in the world of running. These shoes are designed to allow wearers to move naturally, with the heel and ball of the foot hitting the ground at the same level. Vivobarefoot, an athletic brand, produces ultra thin-soled shoes for jogging, desert boots, and loafers. The brand’s slogan is “Reconnect your feet with the ground, and move in the ways that nature intended”.

The barefoot shoe is low profile, understated, and flat, contrasting with the oversized, chunky-soled footwear styles that have dominated for the past decade. The trend is promoting a return to on-foot simplicity and is gaining popularity in the athletic world.

Why did we stop walking barefoot?

Walking barefoot in public spaces can expose you to harsh temperatures, sharp objects, pollutants, and germs, which can lead to burns and painful infections like tetanus, warts, and hand, foot, and mouth disease. If you choose to walk barefoot, it’s important to consult a podiatrist as it’s crucial. However, barefoot hiking isn’t foolproof, as
it exposes you to poop, sharp objects, and shells. It’s also crucial not to go barefoot around a campfire or grill to avoid burning yourself, and never operate a lawnmower without shoes.

What happened to the barefoot running trend?

Barefoot running, also known as “natural running”, is a form of running without footwear. Although less common globally, it is still practiced in Africa and Latin America. In some Western countries, it has gained popularity due to perceived health benefits. Research suggests that running barefoot increases foot muscle size and strength, but this is limited to healthy individuals. Proponents argue that running barefoot reduces the risk of chronic injuries, particularly repetitive stress injuries caused by heel striking in padded shoes. Manufacturers have introduced minimalist shoes, such as traditional moccasins and huaraches, to cater to the barefoot movement.

Who should not wear barefoot shoes?

Minimalist footwear is a significant contributor to foot injuries, especially in individuals with overweight, detrained, or underlying structural or functional limitations. These conditions, such as metatarsal stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, arch strain, posterior tibial tendonitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and calf muscle strain, may not respond to minimalist footwear, especially if overused. The increasing popularity of minimalist footwear among the general population is increasing the presentation of these injuries, particularly heel pain.

However, there are some cases where minimalist footwear can be beneficial. For instance, they encourage a different gait pattern, allowing the wearer to land on their forefoot rather than their heel. This increases stress through the ankle joint, Achilles tendon, and forefoot, but also reduces forces through the knee joint. Studies have shown that after six months of use, knee pain and overload reduced in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis, and overall functional capacity improved. Therefore, it is crucial to select shoes that cater to the specific needs of the person, considering their biomechanics and lower extremity structure.

Should you wear socks with minimalist running shoes?

Socks can restrict toe function and cover nerves, inhibiting sensory input. Therefore, it’s crucial to be shoe and sock-less for overall foot health. While many people go barefoot in their shoes, socks can be worn for cold months or to improve shoe fit. Choose socks that allow toes to spread out, maximizing the benefits of foot-shaped shoes. There are various foot-friendly sock options available to choose from.

Who should not wear minimalist shoes?

Barefoot shoes may not be suitable for individuals with severe hypermobility, rigid musculoskeletal deformities, pre-existing chronic foot conditions, or peripheral neuropathy. It is advised to consult a professional before trying barefoot shoes, as it can be a significant change. While most healthy individuals can adapt to barefoot shoes, those with these conditions should consult a professional. However, minimalist shoes can be beneficial for some individuals, but they may need assistance with the transition.