Are “Barefoot” Shoes Right For You?

Curious to try the latest craze in using “barefoot” (sometimes called “minimalist”) shoes for walking or running? Not so fast, so to speak. As a podiatrist, I see all types of feet and foot injuries and I can say that minimalist walking or running is something to be considered very carefully.

Over the last decade, we have seen the rise of what is called “barefoot” shoes, such as the Vibram Five Fingers shoe. The claim by many of these shoe manufacturers is that barefoot running decreases the risk of injury to runners by returning the foot biomechanics to a more natural state. Some claim that shoes are actually BAD for us. This is simply not true.

Currently, there is no scientific evidence that minimalist running is good for everyone. In fact, Vibram, the shoe company that sold the first “barefoot” shoe, is settling a class action lawsuit brought by claims that the company deceived consumers when it claimed, without scientific evidence, that its shoes could decrease foot injuries and strengthen foot muscles.

There are many concerns and risks to running “barefoot”:

• Trauma. Every road or surface has its dangers—sharp rocks, glass and debris. If you’ve ever gotten something stuck in the sole of your shoe, imagine how it would feel if it penetrated your minimalist shoe.
• Stress fractures. Barefoot and minimalist running has been shown to cause metatarsal stress fractures due to the increased impact on the foot.
• Achilles tendonitis. Barefoot and minimalist running causes a mid-foot or forefoot strike, causing additional strain on your Achilles tendons and calf muscles, which can result in severe tendonitis.
• Blisters. Generally, blisters result from some combination of heat, friction, and moisture, all if which can be exacerbated by “barefoot” shoes.

Are “barefoot” shoes appropriate for you? It depends. Some foot types can slowly adapt to small amounts of barefoot running. Some people can enjoy wearing barefoot shoes around the house with great comfort.

If you are considering experimenting with barefoot/minimalist running, please make an appointment to determine if your feet are stable enough to go shoeless. I can examine and assess your feet to help you make the best decision.

Until then, enjoy those comfy shoes!

— Dr. Frank, 541-385-7129