We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Fitness

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How Do I Choose the Best Shoes for Barefoot Running?

By Page Coleman
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 4,631
Share

When choosing the best shoes for barefoot running, you may need to consider your foot anatomy, the terrain and conditions under which you’ll be running, your budget, and other sports you are involved in. As you begin training, you may need to modify your running style. Barefoot running may offer additional health and running benefits over traditional running shoes.

The shape of your feet and toes will influence the style of shoes for barefoot running that is best for you. Shoes with separate slots for each toe may be the closest to running barefoot because each toe is independent; they allow the toes to grip, and they may enhance stability. They won’t, however, work for every foot. If your toes are long, if you have low arches, or if your foot’s anatomy is otherwise unusual, these shoes may be a poor choice. Many other styles of barefoot running shoes have the traditional toe box, and may often be more suitable for people with varying foot anatomies.

Consider the terrain and conditions you’ll be running in. If you will be doing primarily trail running, you may want to look for shoes that offer more traction on the sole, and sturdy uppers to protect your feet from branches, leaves and rocks. When most of your running is done on pavement, you may prefer shoes with an open upper, and with soles designed to handle slicker surfaces. You can also look for hybrid shoes if you run on both types of terrain.

Those who run in cold, snowy weather will also want sturdier shoes with traction. Although most barefoot running shoes don’t need socks, cold weather runners may prefer shoes that have room enough to accommodate socks. Ideally, try your shoes out under the running conditions you'll be using them in.

Look for the lightest shoe that you can get that is comfortable, as that tends to make running least tiring. Shoes for barefoot running can be expensive, and you may need to search for shoes that are affordable, yet comfortable. You may also want to consider other sports or activities you participate in. For example, some types of barefoot running shoes are also ideal for water sports.

Most people find they have a heel-strike running style when using traditional running shoes, and they need to move to a mid-sole strike when using barefoot shoes. This new running style uses different muscles, tendons and ligaments, so build up slowly. Start by walking in your new shoes, and gradually add a little running time each week. Shoes for barefoot running usually have low heels, which may improve your body’s alignment.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-choose-the-best-shoes-for-barefoot-running.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.