r/BarefootRunning Apr 11 '24

discussion Bare feet are not shoes. Shoes are not barefoot.

95 Upvotes

This sub has always been ridiculed for being all about shoes and not actual barefoot. That's why, early on, the /r/barefoot sub was created, in fact.

I'm not gong to try to stop shoe discussions or questions. I also use shoes in addition to unshod and believe this sub is about better running first and foremost. Unshod and minimalist shoes are, in my opinion, the best tools for achieving that.

I also refuse to ever use the term "barefoot shoes." It implies a confusing and dangerous conflation. At best its an overly simplistic and reductive way to look at better running.

No shoe is "basically the same" as barefoot. That's like saying barefoot is "basically the same" as shoes. They're vastly different things.

Note that I did not say one is better than the other. It's apples vs oranges. I'm not a barefoot purist. If a business requires shoes I'll wear shoes. If I want to run in shoes I'll do that. If I want to keep my form from slacking I'll keep up the unshod running, too.

Overall I recommend not looking for either purist or quick solutions. Stay curious. Keep asking "are shoes better?" or "is unshod better?" and be fully unsatisfied with quick, dismissive answers to those. Be open to asking more questions the more you discover. Be open to shoes and unshod and keep experimenting.

Personally, I'll never recommend shoes. I don't have to. Plenty of you have loads of shoe recommendations and they will never stop nor should they. I'm making this sticky announcement as a simple reminder: don't neglect unshod as part of your essential equipment.


r/BarefootRunning 7h ago

What is the most durable barefoot style shoe?

15 Upvotes

My vivos got holes in them within 2 months. I am looking for barefoot shoes that won’t get holes in them, so harder rubber soles.

I had success with a wide-toe pair of Converse shoes where I dug the glued-in sole out with a spoon and basically had a barefoot pair of converse. The sole was rigid rubber and lasted a long time. I can’t find those shoes in stores anymore though so looking for other options.


r/BarefootRunning 17h ago

“Earthing” as a concept

32 Upvotes

I’ve seen a lot of sentiment that pokes fun at the idea of going barefoot as a means of connecting with the earth in some kind of electrical or spiritual way. I don’t personally really have a problem with the idea if people get excited about it. But I feel like it sort of cheapens other more physiologically supported reasons that people should go unshod. What do y’all think of the “earthing” movement? Is it good or bad for the larger barefoot movement?


r/BarefootRunning 3h ago

Anyone take the BareFootStrength Course?

2 Upvotes

I've been impressed with the Youtube channel barefootstrength. I've been thinking about buying their course. Anyone here already take it? What do you get with the course that you will not get just by using the Youtube channel?


r/BarefootRunning 53m ago

question Talk to me about tennis!

Upvotes

Sit down, get comfy, it’s a long story.

I’m a keen tennis player, in fact, up until a few months ago, I was playing about 12 hours a week (and not getting much better!!). I hurt my Achilles, was starting to get tendinitis symptoms the following day so decided to give myself a break. As soon as I got back, the tendinitis came back, so I went to see a physio who recommended some stretches and strengthening exercises.

While I was recovering, I got into cycling and swimming to keep my fitness intact. Then along came the desire to run and reunite myself with my ambition of being a triathlete and IRONMAN.

This journey led me to reading training books and eventually to Born to Run (1&2) which started me on my barefoot journey.

My tennis shoes are heavy, weighty and very cushioned, does anyone here have any suggestions for shoes that would be suitable for the heavy impact and direction changes of tennis that might suit my feet better and help to avoid the tendinitis returning?


r/BarefootRunning 1h ago

Running cadence on beach in soft sand.

Upvotes

I’ve been running on the beach for years barefoot. I run on the beach on Long Island ny up high on the beach near the dunes so the sand is very soft.

I’ve only recently started reading about actual “barefoot running” and the proper form and all that. Before I was just doing that because it’s nicer to run on the beach without shoes.

One thing I read is that the proper cadence is around 180 +- 10 and I have found mine is 150-160. Sometimes when i run closer to the water in harder sand my cadence will be higher like 165 but that’s the highest I’ve seen. I’m 6’2 215 lbs. Is soft sand a factor in cadence? Would you guys doing 180 per minute also do less in soft sand?


r/BarefootRunning 12h ago

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit unwearable. Falling apart after light use.

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8 Upvotes

r/BarefootRunning 6h ago

Bruised Feet

2 Upvotes

Hello,

Apologies if this has been talked about in any previous posts, I was searching for a while and didn't find anything similar.
From the end of August, I have been experiencing pain on both feet in the area shown below. The pain ranges from low to mild, but it's always present. It feels like the area is bruised and I get a sensation similar to foam rolling when walking, feels like the fascia is moving. I took a break from barefoots (for walking and running) for 2 weeks and it got better, but it's still there.

My barefoot background is following: I have been walking exclusively in barefoots for 3 years, taking breaks when feet had to much of it. I am running consistently for year and a half, and barefoot running has been introduced gradually from this year (I run in five fingers). I have been slowly increasing my weekly mileage, not more than 10 percent, got to the point of 42 - 45 km per week, the longest run was 30km. I have not had this issue before, but after my holidays in the mountains (did all hiking in Vivo Magna ESC) my feet were smashed and have not fully recovered to this day. Also, I should add that running in 5fingers was very comfortable, and was not struggling, or pushing through pain, so I felt well adjusted.
Has anyone experienced this?
I feel like I built a solid foundation, was doing decent distances without this issue. But now my feet are quite sensitive to any gravel, small rocks. I decided to give them a break until further notice by running in Altras, but would like to get them healed as soon as possible.

Your feedback is appreciated :)


r/BarefootRunning 7h ago

Ultimate white sneaker post

0 Upvotes

I'm buying a pair of white sneakers to complete my transition into barefoot shoes (I already have been in this journey for 3 years, having a set of winterboots, trekking boots, gim shoes and sandals) and want them to be my faithful companion when dressing smart. They need to:

  • Avoid the clown shoe aesthetic.
  • Look good, I want to get compliments on them.
  • Be of great quality and nice build.
  • Be comfortable enough to stand in them 4h straight.

They are going to be used for casual use as well as professional fundraising events (my job!) so think entrepreneurship like gatherings where you go pitch and you need to be standing for 6h going on and around, walking and still look amazing at the end of it.

I'm currently looking at:

  • Fleeters - they don't have an all white shoe, but they look nice.
  • Bramfords
  • Vivo barefoot's Gobi and GeoCourt - Although the latter I tried on at a shop and it does give the clown shoe vibe when looked at from above. Gobi's feel amazing, however I know Vivo is getting very negative feedback on their sole durability lately.
  • Feelgrounds Luxe
  • Xero shoes Dillon
  • Icarus Ascent 2
  • Ohne Project - These honestly look great.

Defenders? Detractors? Am I missing any gems out there? Also, general white sneaker thread.


r/BarefootRunning 23h ago

Hobibear (copy of Altra) - Review

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18 Upvotes

Just received a Hobibear shoes that are clearly a copy of Altra Lone Peaks.

I got them on Aliexpress for 28€ Just wanted to check if they can do fine and replace expensive Altras in some situations.

I only walked a bit with them so I will be updating.

I have the Altra Lone Peak 6 btw. So any comparison will be with that model.

First impressions: They look robust enough. The sole is stiffer than Altras. And the insoles feel cheap and bad, have to test them more but... Dont look promising. The toebox is narrow compared to LP6. Not narrow enough to be umconfortable (for me) but narrower for sure.

So.. I will be testing them more in depth to have a better opinion.


r/BarefootRunning 12h ago

Newbie - Help!

1 Upvotes

Hey team - looking at trying to get into barefoot shoes. I’m 26F with significantly overpronated feet that have never really caused an issue. This was until a Right hip injury 3 years ago that required surgery, and since this injury I have had ongoing relentless issues with my right foot. In particular it doesn’t like wearing tight shoes, or anything too unstable - symptoms manifest as lateral foot pain with some hypersensitivity on the lateral sole.

I really enjoy Birkenstocks and these are the only shoes my feet enjoy at the moment, however I also am pain free and comfortable when barefoot.

Where is a good place to start in terms of looking for a casual pair of barefoot shoes, and in theory could walking barefoot strengthen the intrinsic muscles to assist with the over pronation? Anyone else had a similar experience? It’s driving me nuts not being able to wear shoes!


r/BarefootRunning 15h ago

question Long shot on working shoe

1 Upvotes

Is there any “barefoot” or at least zero drop & wide working shoe with the following criteria?

High Rubber Composite toe Black Insulated comfort -30/40


r/BarefootRunning 20h ago

Solution for standing on concrete?

2 Upvotes

I've worn Lem's for a little over two years now, and recently got a pair of Softstars with 5mm soles that I'm honestly not sure about. I love how flexible they are, but when I wear them to work (retail), I get awful heel pain from standing on the concrete floors (and yes, we have anti-fatigue mats in front of the registers).

Is there something I can do to make standing around less awful without compromising the thinness of the soles too much?


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

My first ever barefoot sandals

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13 Upvotes

r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Barefoot Newbie

3 Upvotes

I really want to get into barefoot running. I’ve ran 4 half marathons and am getting into more trail running. I go barefoot as much as possible around the house and I’m going to buy a pair of earthrunners as my everyday shoes to start getting used to the feel. A couple questions: 1) What would everyone recommend for running shoes? 2) Are Vivobarefoot worth the extra over someone like Xero? 3) Would you recommend trying something cheap like Whitins to see if I like it before taking the dive?


r/BarefootRunning 23h ago

Hobibear (copy of Altra) - Review

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2 Upvotes

Just received a Hobibear shoes that are clearly a copy of Altra Lone Peaks.

I got them on Aliexpress for 28€ Just wanted to check if they can do fine and replace expensive Altras in some situations.

I only walked a bit with them so I will be updating.

I have the Altra Lone Peak 6 btw. So any comparison will be with that model.

First impressions: They look robust enough. The sole is stiffer than Altras. And the insoles feel cheap and bad, have to test them more but... Dont look promising. The toebox is narrow compared to LP6. Not narrow enough to be umconfortable (for me) but narrower for sure.

So.. I will be testing them more in depth to have a better opinion.


r/BarefootRunning 22h ago

minimalist shoes Shoe recommendations, please

0 Upvotes

My current everyday/running shoes have worn down, and my cat peed in them, so I’ve been having to wear some less practical boots. I figure it’s time I replace my shoes. But, I’m a bit lost trying to find shoes that meet all my criteria. So, my first thing is I need shoes that will work well for someone who’s on their feet all the time. Mondays through Thursdays I get up early to go out running with my dog, before heading to my college campus for the day and walking between class to class. Then, Fridays through Sundays I go to my retail job, where I stand in place for long hours on end. My second problem, I live in a rather warm humid area where it rains a lot. My last couple pairs of shoes this was a problem, whenever I would walk my dog in the mornings, my socks and shoes would inevitably become soaked after I dared to even step in dewy grass. I can’t go about my day with cold, squishy, wet feet. So, shoes with some level of water-resistance. Third, the people in my apartment complex leave their dogs’ shit everywhere, and the water pressure here is terrible. This is a pain in the ass, because as I mentioned my previous shoes would soak through immediately, so I would end up with sopping wet shoes trying to clean dog poop off of them, but the low water pressure wouldn’t even put a dent in getting the poop out of the grooves. Just made them wet, squishy, and covered in poop. So, shoes that are easy to clean. And finally, shoes that are affordable and will last. Money is really tight for me, I’m a student, I live in a college town where rent is high, and my job doesn’t pay very well. I don’t have large amounts of money to spend on shoes, especially on shoes that are just going to fall apart and I’ll have to buy more.

TLDR: 1. Can be worn for running, walking, standing for long hours. 2. Water resistant. 3. Easy to clean. 4. Affordable and long-lasting.


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Boots

2 Upvotes

Not a running question, but does anyone know a good brand of work boots that are zero drop?


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

question Anything I can do about this?

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10 Upvotes

At any cadence above brisk walking, my Vivos dig into my pinky toe. Only happens on the left shoe. Any suggestions on how I can fix this in the shoe?


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Wide flat feet. Wanted to get into barefoot shoes. Do I need to ease myself into it?

1 Upvotes

Recently I got a new job that requires me to be on my feet and walking around all day. A year into it, I started having all kind of pain on my feet. I've tried all sort of different brands: Altra, Brooks, Hoka, New Balance, Asics but unable to find shoes that work for me. With those brands, I either end up with heel pain, midfoot pain, ball of foot pain, pinky toes constantly blistered and swollen because of convention narrow toe box. I was struggling everyday at work. Lately a friend who also have flat feet suggested to try barefoot shoes. So here I am.

I wanna give Xero a try but I heard they're not wide feet friendly. I'm generally an 8.5 length wise but could never fit into any shoes smaller than 9.5 due to the volume of my feet and how wide they are. Mine are 4E wide. I printed out Xero templates and only size 11 fit the width of my feet and that is pushing it because my pinky are right on top of the line. So is there any barefoot shoes/brands that great for wide feet that you guys would recommend?

I usually walk barefoot at home and every chance I get and normally only use shoes when I'm outside. My typical shoes were usually around 5mm drop. I also often play soccer on grass field barefoot. So I do need to ease myself into barefoot shoes (going to 3mm and zero drop first) or should I be okay to just make the switch?


r/BarefootRunning 2d ago

minimalist shoes Finally, shoes I can really feel free in.

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109 Upvotes

r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Vibram V-Aqua

4 Upvotes

I think it's my favourite outdoors shoe. Simply because you don't have to worry about getting it dirty. You can do whatever the hell you want in it: swim, run in mud, rain, etc. And then just come back home and wash it under water.

I've had vibram v-alpha for a while, and I would often avoid wearing them in bad weather because I didn't want to mess them up. V-aqua solves that issue completely.

Plus, you can wear them without socks.

P.S. the grip on wet, mossy rocks is 10/10, I was really surprised by it.


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Max cushion sandal for 100 miler?

2 Upvotes

I know this goes against the whole point of barefoot running but I’m still transitioning to more minimal footwear. I ordered some Shamma sandals to do more training in but it’s going to take a while and in the meantime I don’t want to stop running ultras.

The problem is I have a narrow heel and wide forefoot, so shoes in wide sizes float all over the place on me and I failed in my last 100 mile attempt because even my Topos got too narrow in the forefoot with swelling. A huarache style sandal would be perfect but I’m racing in Topos because anything more than 20 miles or so in zero drop, even my cushioned Altras, is still too much for my calves and Achilles. Is there a low drop (not zero) cushy huarache style sandal that’ll let my forefoot spread out? Maybe Chacos?


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Shamma ibex/alpha vs earthrunner circadian sole grip

1 Upvotes

Looking for the grippiest sole, anyone have experience with both brands and could compare their soles grip? For hiking in loose dirt and scrambling across smooth rocks.


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

my workout outfit 😆

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0 Upvotes

It's been 6 years now since I started training at home completely barefoot. Every day I take between 15k and 20k steps a day, almost all without shoes. My slippers are now destroyed 😂 (photo 2) while for the feet no problem, every now and then a small blister comes (photo 3) but it goes away quickly with creams.


r/BarefootRunning 1d ago

Xero Shoes Long Processing Time

4 Upvotes

Has anybody else been waiting 7+ days for their Xero Shoes order to ship? I placed my order on October 2nd for ~11 pairs of shoes (stocking up) and still haven’t received an update on the order. I’ve read comments on various threads and posts where others have received their shoes from the fall sale, so I’m beginning to worry as all I’ve heard is “please wait longer.”