Dr. Kelly Starrett, a physical therapist, CrossFit gym owner, and advocate for wearing flat shoes makes the point that the time we spend in shoes with significant heels causes the tissues in the lower leg to shorten and form into states of poor mobility. He likens shoes with heels, including athletic shoes to Chinese foot binding.

I walked 30 miles in the Prio XeroShoes and 22 miles in the Z-Trail XeroShoe sandals in just 4 days. All over Boston, NYC, and Walden Woods. These shoes and sandals never let me down. My feet were happy and I felt great. These have become my absolute favorite shoes! Using these spacers, Dr. McClanahan treats many different running injuries along with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, heel spurs, bunions along with other things.The Vibram 5 Fingers are probably my favorite everyday shoe. I ended up buying the V-Trail since it had the best soles for trail running. Since wearing them I have noticed that my feet have slowly started to regain the look of a healthy foot. My toes have started to spread, the use and range of motion of my toes have seen great improvement. I really love trail running with these because the separate toes allow me to grip hills that I am climbing and really feel the surface underneath my feet. Heel- Get shoes with the smallest heel as possible. You may have to do some research on your shoe to find out how close to zero drop they are. 0mm-4mm drop is what you are shooting for.

We then sent all this over to Primetrotter along with any instructions for unique styling on the shoes. Whether you’re wanting to train in the gym, run outside, go on walks, or just for everyday going about your business, a good barefoot shoe can do it all. All whilst offering a more natural, comfortable and minimalist alternative to traditional footwear. This is why barefoot shoes are also known as minimalist shoes. Take it slow and you can make the transition without injury and set yourself up for healthier ankles, feet and Achilles for the foreseeable future. Barefoot shoes are typically very lightweight. Many feel like you’re not wearing any shoes at all, which is the main idea. Minimalist shoes also come with breathable uppers to keep the air circulating freely to maintain cool, dry feet.

And remember to keep the runs short at first, then build them up slowly, so that the nerves, muscles, tendons and bones of your feet have enough time to adjust to the new and unfamiliar forces that will be passing through them. Are barefoot shoes just for fitness enthusiasts? While cushioning in running, work and dress shoes is a great idea and can protect the foot from the various hard surfaces we stride over each day, the raised heel is something that we think needs to go away. I like the appearance of Xero’s Zelen shoes, but they’re not the best-looking on the list. Also, if you’re running outside when the weather isn’t too good, your feet will probably get wet and potentially cold.