Barefooters
A group for those of us who enjoy being barefoot as much as possible. For the hardcore barefooters among us, it's a way of life!
- created by justgonaked
Walking/Running Barefoot
Return to DiscussionsI recently had to take up serious walking to essentially save my own life. I'm pretty much barefoot most of the time, but walking several miles a day barefoot on pavement was harder on the soles of my feet than I had anticipated. So...... I broke down and bought sneakers for long distance walking. I was so miserable with the first pair that I bought a second different pair. Yeah, no better. From my lower back to my toes and everything between was on fire halfway through my walk. More often than not, I had to take off the shoes and finish the walk barefoot. While walking barefoot felt better, I was still in pain.
I did some online research on barefoot walking and running, and learned that I was walking incorrectly. People wearing shoes, specifically shoes with heels and padded soles take longer strides and land on their heels. So, I started walking with a shorter stride. With a shorter stride, one has to take more steps, but it uses less energy and causes far less trauma to your joints and back. I've been able to complete my walks with no discomfort since changing my walking style.
The only value shoes have is to protect the bottom of your feet. That value is negated with heels, thick padding and arch support. Our feet were designed to walk barefoot.
Do some research on barefoot shoes especially those with zero drop which means no elevated heel. A wide toe box is also important. Most of todays fashionable or popular shoes are not good for your feet at all! It takes time to adapt to foot shaped shoes but your feet can and normal foot function can be restored.
I often hike and walk barefoot. I have run for miles barefoot. Sometimes it freaks people out but I dont care.
I would suggest you may be on the right track with maintaining a shorter stride and not heel striking as you go. Give your body time to adjust and dont push too hard until you become adapted.
I received my Xero shoes order a few days ago. The first pair of "barefoot" shoes that I've ever owned. WOW. I will never again voluntarily wear standard footwear. I really do prefer to go barefoot, but walking miles on asphalt can be brutal to the soles of your feet. Especially, down south in the summer time.
I recently bought a pair of EarthRunners sandals. They are amazing. My Xero sandals havent left the closet since. The EarthRunners have replaced my flip flops by the door. They are that easy to get on and off. I only wish I hadnt waited so long to get them.
Love the Xero shoes, but still prefer to go barefoot. For the most part, I wear the Xero shoes at work and walking outdoors only when the pavement is to hot. Apparently, I have some defect that causes my feet and hands to blister with little heat and friction.