Something about the call of the wild speaks to the adventurer in us all. It’s that incessant whisper to break free, explore terrains vast and unknown, and return to a simpler, more organic way of life. In this article, I invite you to consider a change that might seem small but is fundamental—the shift from traditional footwear to the world of barefoot shoes.
Barefoot? Shoes? Yes, I know it seems contradictory, but hang tight.
Far from being the latest health fad or the exclusive badge of us granola girls, barefoot shoes are a movement. They allow us to reach back to a simpler time when our ancestors roamed lands with little more than buckskin as shoes. Minimalist shoes simulate the natural, barefoot experience while enhancing foot protection with the use of modern-day innovation.
In this post, we’ll unravel the problems of traditional footwear, dive into the benefits of going “bare”, and discover how a small change in footwear can enhance the quality of your life. While also unlocking a sense of freedom in every step you take.
Traditional Shoes Vs. Barefoot Shoes
Traditional Shoes
Think about your trusty running shoes, those sturdy hiking boots, or even the dress shoes you begrudgingly slip on for special occasions.
Traditional shoes come with a thick sole, a narrow toe box, and a design focused on support that, ironically, can weaken the very muscles meant to provide natural stability.
Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes defy conventional designs. They have a wide toe box for natural toe spread, a thin sole that keeps you grounded, and minimal to no arch support.
They are the epitome of footwear flexibility—so much so, that you can fold some in half.
Barefoot shoes are able to mimic the foot’s natural shape. And in return encourage a stronger, healthier gait by letting your feet engage with the ground in a way modern shoes have long forgotten.
I still wear both traditional and barefoot shoes. My feet are accustomed to transitioning to either after years of switching back and forth. But I find that I always stick to my barefoot shoes when being active in the gym (Vivo Barefoots), or getting out in nature to hike (Lems).
Benefits of Barefoot Shoes
- It’s Natural: Shedding the structured shoe for a barefoot one feels like taking a deep breath of fresh mountain air—it’s a return to the basics, the way nature intended.
- Builds Foot Strength: With a minimalist shoe, each toe can move independently. This builds strength in the foot muscles that have been neglected by traditional footwear.
- Improved Balance and Posture: A thinner sole improves your proprioception—the body’s ability to sense its own position, motion, and equilibrium—ultimately leading to better balance and posture.
- Increased Range of Motion: Free from the confines of a restrictive toe box, your feet can move as they were meant to—flexible and free.
- Better Gait and Running/Walking Form: Barefoot shoes encourage a more natural stride, which can reduce impact stress on joints compared to the heel-strike gait often associated with traditional footwear.
For me, the benefits of improving my foot strength and body posture were more than enough to get me started on the barefoot adventure. And I haven’t looked back since.
Why I Only Wear Barefoot Shoes Hiking
Transitioning to barefoot shoes for my hiking adventures wasn’t an overnight switch— but a gradual journey.
Over time, I’ve trained my feet to use their natural strength and give me a sturdy foundation to hike on. And my toes have never felt more free since switching from chunky, bulky hiking boots (and in hindsight, they were really weighing me down).
Now, not only do I get physical benefits like balance and stability, but I feel more connected to the earth below me.
Barefoot shoes have become more than just a part of my gear; they’re a declaration of independence for my feet, and honestly, I couldn’t imagine hitting the trails any other way.
What about foot and arch support?
Is Arch Support Necessary?
The arches of your feet are designed to be shock absorbers. When allowed to function naturally, they can support your weight without the crutch of added arch support. Over time, extra support can actually lead to weakened foot musculature.
Are There Risks?
Yes, but you can steer clear of them by being cautious of the terrain you are on, as the minimalist design offers less protection from sharp objects.
And remember, your feet will need time to build strength in their newfound freedom—transition slowly from your traditional shoes to avoid overuse injuries.
How To Transition To Barefoot Shoes
Start Gradually:
Begin by wearing your barefoot shoes for short periods each day, gradually increasing the time as your feet adapt (avoid trying to break in a new pair of barefoot shoes when going on a several mile long hike).
I started by wearing my Vivobarefoots anytime I went to the gym, and soon they became my daily trainers. I not only wear them when strength training, but I will also wear them on daily walks and the occasional run.
Do Foot Strengthening Exercises:
There are numerous exercises you can do to build foot strength. Consider towel scrunches, toe splaying (consider trying toe spaces to help), and heel raises as a starting point.
Read this article for 5 exercises to strengthen your feet.
Do You Wear Socks With Barefoot Shoes?
This is entirely personal preference.
I always wear a pair of crew socks when I hike in my Lems. And Vivo Barefoot shoes are highly breathable, which allow you to wear them barefoot if you prefer.
Where To Buy Barefoot Shoes
In no particular order, here are some trustworthy brands I own that offer some of my favorite minimalist footwear.
Remember, transition slowly over time and give your body plenty of time to acclimate (your feet will thank you).
- Vivobarefoot: Renowned for their durable, stylish, and versatile design.
- Lems: A favorite for their ultra-comfortable fit and travel-friendly nature.
- Merrell: They strike a balance between the minimalist feel and rugged outdoor readiness.
- Belenka: Known for premium quality and vast selection.
Final Thoughts
As an outdoor lover, your gear is your adventure companion.
And what better way to enhance that connection with the outdoors than by starting with your feet? The very things that carry you through forests, over mountains, and across streams.
Barefoot shoes offer not just a way to protect your feet, but give them the flexibility and strength they were also meant to have.
So, take the leap! Your next outdoor adventure is guaranteed to feel more authentic and invigorating, all from the ground up.
