Shoes For Barefoot Running

With all the fancy padded shoes out there, why would you want a minimalist shoe? It seems counter-intuitive.

But once you try it, I think you'll agree it's the best feeling when it comes to running.

Running barefoot is natural. It is actually easier on your body, and it results in fewer injuries. An added bonus - it's cheaper, too!

Heard of ChiRunning and Pose Method of running? You'll progress faster with those running styles if you switch to a "barefoot style" running shoe.

So here are some shoe options for you:

From Vibram comes the coolest barefoot shoe out there, the FiveFingers line.

FiveFingers come in Classic, Sprint, Flow, and KSO models. Some are suitable for walking, some are great for trail running, and some are best for cold weather or water sports. There is a model for you!

This shoe has the thin rubber sole that's flexible enough for natural motion, but it's tough enough to withstand running on hard surfaces without getting cut or punctured. Plus, with a separate pocket for each toe, you learn to better use your foot.

There are a couple drawbacks, though. The FiveFingers don't fit all foot types. For example, if you have a second toe longer than your big toe, it's a no go. Webbed feet? These won't work for you.

Also, these can take some time to slip your feet into them, since everything needs positioned properly.

Not to mention, the shoes look weird, so they are not applicable to typical office environments.

Price isn't bad though, around $85.

I suggest you try before you buy.

Website: http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/

The Puma H Street is a minimalist running shoe designed for track use. It has long been a favorite with Pose runners.

It's a good track shoe with a thin, flexible sole. And it looked cool!

Unfortunately, Puma discontinued the H Street in 2008.

Puma's replacements are pretty good, though. The two models to try are the Saloh and the K Street.

Both are priced around $65.

From Terra Plana comes a cool line of shoes called Vivo Barefoot. It's popular with the die-hard barefoot runners.

It looks like a casual shoe, but it's great for running. It has the necessary thin sole, but the sole is puncture-resistant for your protection.

The downside here is that the Vivo Barefoot Aqua (their best men's model for running) is $150. And it probably doesn't last that long. For such a minimalist shoe, that's expensive!

Website: http://www.vivobarefoot.com/
http://www.terraplana.com/vivobarefoot

The Feelmax Panka is a very thin, minimalist shoe from Finland. I have yet to see these in the USA.

It has a fairly normal look, except for the sole, which appears to be a thin piece of felt. That would make it great for mimicking the barefoot feel, but it doesn't make me think "puncture-resistant."

Website: http://www.feelmax.com/