Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a barefoot shoe?
People often ask why Altra or other zero-drop shoes aren’t included in our list. The reason lies in the thickness of the sole. We classify a barefoot shoe as one with a thin sole, ideally 10 mm or less, to promote ground feel and toe splay, providing the foot with the necessary feedback for natural movement.
However, there are exceptions, particularly in categories like work boots; hence, we include Lems boots with their 13-mm sole and no arch. Arguing over definitions can be counterproductive for the barefoot community. Zero-drop shoes are substantially better than high-arch, heavily padded shoes, making them a good starting point.
How can I start with barefoot shoes?
Transitioning from padded shoes requires patience. You can’t expect to match your usual mileage immediately—whether walking or running—in barefoot shoes. It involves relearning gait and patience, as you’re also unlearning ingrained habits. The process is slow and deliberate.
Your approach should depend on your goals. When I was getting into running, it naturally aligned with the need to pace myself. Ultra-marathoners might find this difficult as they’ll need to focus on not covering long distances immediately. Direct your discipline into holding back rather than pushing forward.
If unsure where to start, consider Graham Tuttle’s YouTube channel for foot strengthening exercises that enhance the foot and ankle strength often lacking from years of padded shoes, also helping to ease muscle soreness during transition. Tuttle offers paid programs for more personalized guidance, though I haven’t tried them. Another useful resource is the MovNat channel, offering valuable advice on barefoot living. Reading Born to Run and Natural Born Heroes by Christopher McDougall can be inspirational and informative about barefoot lifestyle.
Remember, using barefoot shoes is not all-or-nothing. During my transition, I used barefoot shoes for running, regular shoes for other activities, and sandals otherwise. Mixing footwear is acceptable. Transition times vary; while it took me six months to adapt, it might be different for you. Move at your own pace without comparisons.