Interest in ‘barefoot running’ has gained serious momentum amongst the running community ever since it was featured in the book Born to Run by Chris McDougall.
Whilst a hardy few will undoubtedly take to the streets wearing absolutely nothing on their feet, for the most part, barefoot running is almost a contradiction in terms as it doesn’t actually mean that you run around barefoot.
Barefoot or minimalist running shoes, as they are also known, have actually been around well before Chris McDougall decided to write a book on the subject, however, their appeal had yet to reach the masses.
Advocates of barefoot running say that many modern day running shoes, typically with plenty of cushioning and heel support, can actually hinder performance and are the cause of a multitude of niggling strains and injuries.
Modern running shoes, apparently, inhibit our feet and cause us to move in ways that are otherwise unnatural. In addition, they also cause us to run with really bad posture, with many of us striking our heel first, which is said to be one of the worst possible ways to run and can put unnecessary strain on the heel, calves, hamstrings and spine.
The main idea behind barefoot running shoes is that they allow your feet to move more naturally, landing on the ground as if you were running barefoot and eliminating that damaging heel strike, whilst at the same time providing your feet with some protection.
Today, running shops and sports outlets up and down the country are packed with myriad different barefoot running shoes in a variety of styles and for a wide range of different purposes.
Some are designed to help improve your running technique by reducing the possibility of heel strike, whilst others are not much more than a slither of rubber that leaves your foot almost as free as if you were completely barefoot.
Be warned though, barefoot running isn’t something to try blindly and it is advisable to seek the advice of a podiatrist or running expert before you do up those laces.
Nike Free 5.0+
The Nike Free 5.0+ is perhaps the ideal starting point for any barefoot running newcomer. The Nike Free line of trainers has a scale that runs from 10.0, which offers full support, to 0.0. Incredibly comfortable and lightweight, the 5.0 still offers a decent amount of bounce and support, whilst allowing you to develop a more natural running technique. Available in more colours than you could ever imagine, you can even customise your own if you buy from the Nike website. £85
Inov8 F-Lite 195 Running Shoe
Minimal and light, the Inov8 F Lite 195 running shoe has a low profile heel that is designed for runners who already have experience in barefoot running or for those who have developed a POSE running style. The shoes also feature no midsole, which ensures your feet remain as close to the ground as possible. A unisex trainer, you can pick up the Inov8 F-Lite 195’s for around £60.00
New Balance Minimus
Super lightweight, the Minimus are little more than a sock with a study outsole. The synthetic mesh upper of the shoe wraps around the foot but gives enough flexibility to allow natural movement combined with a little breathing room around the toe. Suitable for road running, the New Balance Minimus also work just as well as a racing flat. £80.00
Adidas Adipure Gazelle
Quite different from the original Adidas Gazelle’s that were launched in the late 1960’s, Adidas brings the Adipure Gazelle to the minimalist running table. Taken from what is referred to as its ‘natural collection’ the Adipure Gazelle is a good option for those transitioning between their old running style and barefoot. Suitable for those who run long distances, the Adipure Gazelle’s help to promote mid/forefront landing whilst reducing the problem of heel striking. £85.00
Vibram Five Fingers
The Marmite of barefoot running shoes – you’ll either love them or hate them. The Vibram Five Fingers offer almost no padding so your feet are really close to the ground. The shoes are super flexible but will almost certainly take a bit of getting used to. One for the barefoot pros, the Vibram Five Fingers aren’t just suitable for running and have also become popular with participants of all kinds of sports ranging from climbers to Crossfit. Prices start around £90.00
Suunto Quest Running Watch
With all that running you’re going to need to keep track of time and your progress. The Suunto Quest running watch is like having a professional running trainer on your wrist. Packed full of features, the Suunto Quest provides you with alerts for running time, distance, duration and intensity. If you start to slack, the Quest will make sure you know about it!
Available in 9 different languages, you can also download training programs direct to the watch from your PC or Mac. The watch includes a heart rate monitor and is also water resistant to 30 metres so it is suitable for those training across different sports. Around £150.00
