The University of Delaware and Harvard Medical School mentioned that barefoot activities make arches stronger and higher. Is barefoot running healthier?īarefoot running is very healthy. However, transitioning to barefoot running shoes can take time and should be done gradually to allow your feet and legs to adjust to the new running style. That’s because barefoot trail running shoes allow your feet to move more naturally and strengthen the muscles in your feet and lower legs. Compared to a heel-striking gait, minimalist running shoes can reduce the risk of certain injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints, by encouraging a forefoot or midfoot strike rather than a heel strike. Are barefoot shoes good for running?īarefoot shoes are great for running – but it takes practice. They might also have no drop at all (“zero-drop” or “balanced cushion” shoes), which means that your heel and forefoot are at the same level as they are when you’re barefoot. On top of that, barefoot trail running shoes usually have less than an 8-millimeter drop. The best minimalist running shoes have a wide toe box that allows your toes to splay and move freely. The thin, flexible sole allows your feet to feel the ground beneath them. They provide traction, protection, comfort, and breathability. What are barefoot running shoes?īarefoot running shoes have a very thin sole, minimal padding, and a flexible design that allows your feet to move more naturally. The list below includes top-rated minimalist running shoes that are nimble, lightweight, and flexible enough to keep you grounded all while offering great protection and superior grip. Luckily, there’s an array of barefoot trail running shoes designed to promote natural movement in the foot while strengthening the muscles for natural stability.

They must be extremely well made and able to withstand constant wear and tear.Īnd last but not least, especially in the case of barefoot sandals for running, the shoe must offer locked-in stability to perform in wet and slippery conditions. Second, minimalist running shoes must be sturdy and durable enough to put up with whatever the trail throws at you. And it’s no surprise that the best barefoot running shoes must check off all the boxes before we lace up and go.įirst and foremost, barefoot running shoes and running sandals should protect your feet from sharp objects (rocks or metal debris) on the road while also letting you connect to the terrain beneath your feet. There’s a barefoot running shoe for everyone, no matter if you are an avid hiker, city sprinter, or serious trail runner.

Barefoot running shoes