Barefoot running is more than the latest wild idea -- it is a return to the natural way to run. When you run barefoot, you typically do not land on your heel, but on your forefoot. Decades of running in heavily cushioned sneakers have encouraged unnatural heel striking, which is thought to increase the risk of injury. There are numerous running shoes on the market now that claim to mimic the barefoot running experience while providing your feet with protection and support.
Vibram Five Fingers
Vibram Five Fingers shoes have individual compartments for each of your toes. Vibram created them as an alternative to traditional sneakers, and the company's website claims they help strengthen the muscles in your feet, ankles and legs; improve balance and agility; and improve posture. Because they are so different from traditional running shoes, the company suggests a gradual transition to the Five Fingers, slowly increasing your mileage to prevent overuse injuries. Five Fingers has shoes for a range of activities, including running.
Nike Free
The Nike Free line of flexible shoes was designed to work with the natural range of motion of the foot while still providing cushioning for running, according to the Nike Running website. The lightweight upper of the shoe is made to support the foot while not restricting it, and the sole of the shoe is specially designed to flex and bend in multiple directions, states the website. The laces are asymmetrical, which helps alleviate any pressure on the top of the foot, for a more natural feel.
Newton
Newton's minimalist running shoes encourage forefoot striking, as if you were running barefoot. The soles of the sneakers have actuator lugs positioned under the metatarsals, which help propel you forward, encourage forefoot striking and provide cushioning. Newtonrunning.com states that the shoes may help reduce the risk of injury, encourage more natural biomechanics, provide you with more mobility and reduce your energy expenditure. Newton suggests adapting to the shoes slowly, with a gradual increase in mileage when you start wearing them, to avoid injury.
Considerations
Traditional running shoes are heavily cushioned, especially in the heels. Barefoot, or minimalist, running shoes have less cushioning and may not be appropriate for everyone. If you are interested in trying these shoes, start off with short runs, such as a mile or two, then run a typical distance in your regular shoes. Gradually add miles to your runs in the minimalist shoes until you are running your usual workout. If you have foot or ankle problems, ask your doctor whether these shoes are appropriate before you run in them.
Member Comments