Benefits of Barefoot Shoes​:

"Barefoot" shoes allow your feet to move as if you are barefoot. They are completely flat or zero-drop - which refers to the angle between the heel and the toe of the shoe. In a zero-drop shoe, there is no raised heel, allowing the foot to remain in its natural position. A high-heeled shoe is an extreme example of a shoe that is NOT zero drop. But most shoes, casual or athletic, have some degree of a heel raise. Why is this problematic? Heeled shoes bring us forward over our toes, resulting in our pelvis and spine having to compensate. This can lead to some parts of the body being overworked while others underworked.

Barefoot shoes are also foot-shaped. The shoe design follows the foot's natural curve, allowing toes to splay out properly.  Conventional shoes tend to come to a point over the second and third toe. Squished, pointy shoes can contribute to

foot pain and the formation of bunions and other deformities. Barefoot shoes allow for better alignment and toe splay

for added stability and freedom of movement. 

Our feet are flexible, so it makes sense that our shoes are flexible too! Barefoot shoes allow the foot to move naturally so all those muscles in our feet can stay strong and supple. This is important because the feet are our foundation - we have a kinetic chain from our toes to our spine and head! We need strong, supple feet to have a solid, supportive base which will allow us to move and play.

Barefoot-style shoes come in a range of cushioning, and transitioning correctly is essential. You want to slowly increase the amount of time spent being barefoot to avoid discomfort. The changes and deformities that happen in feet and toes exposed to conventional footwear take many years to occur. It's no surprise, then, that positive, healthy changes and foot and toe rehabilitation will also take some time. Some people who transition to minimalist shoes do not allow enough time for the soles, the muscles in the feet, and the rest of the lower body to strengthen and adapt. Transitioning to minimalist shoes will, in most cases, work your foot and lower body in a new and unique way, leading to initial soreness and fatigue before the longer-term strength gains and other favourable adaptations occur. Be patient, monitor your body's response to this transition, and take it slowly! Changes are afoot.

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Adding foot strengthening exercises to your daily routine can help the transition period. We have ongoing workshops focusing on foot health and blog content to help you along the way! Keep an eye on our social channels for our next workshop.