Barefoot Running

Why run barefoot?

Because it is better for you!  We were born to run barefoot.  People have been barefooting for millions of years!  Our fancy cushioned sneakers have only been around since the 70s.  And we don’t really need them.

What’s wrong with shoes?

Recent studies have shown that our running shoes do little to prevent injury.  Some studies even show that running shoes may increase the risk of ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis and other injuries.  Expensive running shoes have also been found to cause more injuries than cheap running shoes.  20-80% of regular runners suffer injuries every year.  So something is definitely going wrong there.  Barefoot running puts less damaging torque on our hip, knee, and ankle joints than wearing supportive running shoes.

Doesn’t running barefoot hurt?

It can at first.  You have to work up to it slowly.  Because we are so used to living in shoes, our muscles can’t automatically adapt to running without them.  Foot and calf muscles will need time to adjust, but if you strengthen your feet slowly, you will be good to go within four weeks.

What about rocks and glass?

It’s really not too hard to avoid rocks and glass.  And your feet do get pretty callused which helps with the rocks.  And there are lots of barefooting shoes to choose from.

Will my feet get callused and disgusting?

They will get callused, and that is a good thing, but they probably won’t get disgusting.  As your feet get used to running on different surfaces, your soles will thicken.  The more callused your feet get, the more comfortable it will be to run.  But if you’re really worried about getting disgusting feet, there are always barefoot shoes.

What about barefoot running shoes?

There are a lot of great barefoot running shoes out there!  Vibrams, Nike Free, Vivo shoes, and others.  You can find these shoes online, and at most good running stores.

What will  everyone think?

Some people will probably think you are crazy for running barefoot.  It makes it even more exciting to go running though!  People will ask you all sorts of great questions like, “Where are your shoes??”  My favorite response- “That guy just took them!! (and point at random stranger)”

Can you barefoot in the cold?

You can, but you shouldn’t go if it is so cold that your feet go numb.  If your feet are numb, you won’t be able to tell if you are hurting yourself.  Barefooting on a treadmill is a good alternative.  There are also certain shoes that are thin enough to mimic running barefoot while being thick enough to insulate your feet from the elements.

Can anyone go barefooting?

No.  People with diabetes should not run barefoot due to decreased sensation in the feet. Having healthy feet (free of deformities or bone problems) is also a very important part of barefoot running.

Do you have to be a hippie to run barefoot?

You definitely don’t have to be a hippie, but it couldn’t hurt.  Go hug a tree.