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Barefoot running caught the public\u2019s attention in 1960 when Ethiopia\u2019s Abebe Bikila won Olympic marathon gold in Rome running barefoot. In the 1980s, Zola Budd courted headlines for running barefoot on the track.<\/strong><\/p>\n But the industry that we now know was arguably created in 2009 on publication of Christopher McDougall\u2019s book, Born to Run<\/em>, who spent time with the secluded tribe called the Tarahumara who were legendary for their ability to run days at a time in flimsy sandals.<\/p>\n Since then, barefoot running\u2019s remained popular with triathletes and runners. Though, technically that moniker is incorrect because barefoot running in the 21st century involves running in run shoes\u2026<\/p>\n <\/p><\/div> <\/section> The difference with traditional run shoes is that barefoot shoes are highly minimalist. The idea behind that is they more accurately reflect your natural running style with barefoot proponents arguing that more cushioned models reduce feel for the ground and change your natural running style.<\/p>\n This more natural running style, proponents argue, decreases the chances of injury because you allow your feet and lower limbs to grow strong.<\/p>\n The argument\u2019s persuasive, but there\u2019s one big caveat: don\u2019t dispense with your heavier, traditional shoes and leap headlong into minimalist shoes.<\/p>\n Your run style has developed in heavier shoes, so hasn\u2019t developed the strength for barefoot running. But it will get there. You just need to acclimatise\u2026<\/p>\n <\/p><\/div> <\/section> Start off by walking in your barefoot shoes and gently stretch your arches and calf muscles. Then run a short distance on a softer surface like your local field.<\/p>\n Practise landing on your midfoot versus your heel, which is more as nature intended and why barefoot runners insist you\u2019re stronger running this way.<\/p>\n When it comes to acclimatising, follow the 10% rule \u2013 that means not increasing run mileage in your barefoot run shoes by more than 10% each week. Listen to your body, keep an eye on any stresses and pains, but be meticulous and you\u2019ll soon be running stronger, more efficient and hopefully lessen the chances of injury.<\/p>\n With that in mind, here are five from the most popular brands on the market\u2026<\/p>\nJump to:<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What is a barefoot running shoe?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Why use barefoot running shoes?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How to start running in barefoot shoes<\/strong><\/h2>\n