Are Barefoot Shoes DESTROYING Your Feet?

In this video, we delve into the potential risks and drawbacks of wearing barefoot shoes and uncover whether they could be destroying your feet.
We'll explore the controversial world of minimalist footwear and examine the impact it can have on foot health - from the development of Achilles tendonitis to plantar fasciitis and more.
So, hit that play button and find out if Barefoot Shoes are DESTROYING your feet.
Featured shoes 🦶: VivoBarefoot Primus Lite
Get 10% off with code GT10 - www.vivobarefo...
----------
New To Barefoot Shoes - Checkout Our Barefoot Transition Guide 🚀: www.barefootst...
----------
SUBSCRIBE for FREE entry to our 10,000 subscriber giveaway, (the winner, will receive the following bundle:
- Your choice of 2 x pairs of VivoBarefoot Shoes
- TYR weightlifting shoes
- Copy of The Barefoot Transition Guide
- Correct Toes Toe Spacers
----------
Questions? Use the comment section below and let's chat!

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

GT10 = 10% off VivoBarefoot || www.vivobarefoot.com VivoBarefoot is offering 10% off to all channel subscribers. Use the code GT10 to save!

[@LucidDreamer54321]

If we require foam cushioning to walk on concrete, then why am I comfortable walking barefoot on concrete or asphalt? The fact is that when you have less cushion (or no artificial cushion) on the bottom of your feet, your brain will adjust the way your foot contacts the ground surface. You seem to be somehow completely unaware of that fact. Sorry to say, but this video is nonsense - especially the part with the egg. That was ridiculously wrong.

[@Chikitota0]

To whoever read this, when I first make the transition to barefoot, I still remember the feeling. The next day of wearing barefoot shoes for work (8 hours standing and walking), was like someone pour acid on my feet's and leg's, it was so freaking painful. Call me crazy, but that feeling of hurt didn't stop me, I keep pushing and fighting through the pain (I also at the time was battling plantar fasciitis). And now 1 year later, it was the best decision of my life, to switch all of my shoes for barefoot shoe, no more plantar fasciitis, no more hurting while standing all day, it fixed the muscle imbalance of my calves, feets, hips and butt, no more weak ankles and knee's, basically my whole legs got stronger. But of all of the mentioned above, the one that I got more excited of getting rid off, was plantar fasciitis, now I understood, why I had that problem, basically my tendons where weak, for wearing conventional shoes, my feets tendon got weak. Looking back now, why I didn't knew this in my younger year's. Whoever read this I hope this help you a little and understand more of the benefits of wearing barefoot shoes, and remember isn't going to be easy, it's hard and painful, enjoy the journey. I hope all you conquer you're weakness and pains. Peace ✌️.

[@infiniteinfiniteinfi]

It is also possible to start really slow to help the tendons, muscles and the nervous system to adapt, change and grow. Then there might be no pain at all.

[@TheRealNickG]

​@@infiniteinfiniteinfiMaybe. But I didn't want to wait half a decade to get busy doing what my body is actually capable of doing. If you are trying to stave off inevitable movement pathology for a bit longer with little to no pain, then give it a whirl. But I'd like to be able to grab a basketball goal again by the time I'm 45, so 2-3 months of pain was worth it. It's hard to explain to someone how great it feels to do things I haven't in 15 years. They scoff because they think I'm naturally athletic when the secret is that the loss of pain in my ankles on the other side of the transition made me lose 30lbs, lowered my blood pressure, stabilized my blood sugar. I feel better now in my 40's than I did in my 30s. That pain was the blessing of the decade, tbh.

[@derekparker2534]

❤barefoot men ❤

[@irbisae4964]

True that cushion feels good only if you have strong feet. I remember in high school I loved shoes like that and had 0 problems. Now 7 years later after continously wearing running shoes every day, sitting a lot, feet got weak and I now have symptoms of plantar fasciatis and cushioned shoes do not feel that good

[@himotayo]

This is so cool. Thanks!

[@ytb3748]

I honestly do not mind cushioned shoes. What I mind is how narrow shoes are made. A cushioned shoe with a wide toe-box would be the real deal for me.

[@ytb3748]

@@GuacamoleyNacho I'm an avid Ecco Shoes consumer. But I'm still searching for a cushioned wide-toe box shoes.

[@xdragoonzero0]

I believe Orthofeet has cushioned wide-toe shoes. I would've went with them if I didn't like minimalist shoes, and my previous pair of shoes was made by them.

[@user-vr9sz3qu8x]

Have you seen Altra models?

[@ytb3748]

@@user-vr9sz3qu8x I've heard of them, but never tried them. I'll go try 'em on one day and see how I like 'em.

[@kattekongen]

Rebook nano 2.0 are just that. I was surprised!

[@easternmenace]

I have been wearing barefoot shoes for about 3 years now. Previously I always gravitated to less cushioned shoes and walk barefoot or with socks at home so that helped. I can now do long distance hikes in them 100+ miles and feel fine. Annoyingly I have to wear steel toe protective boots at work which are the complete opposite. Despite this the effects of wearing barefoot shoes seem to stay and it makes me appreciate wearing them a lot more once you switch from work boots to barefoot shoes.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

I'll bet it does! I had to wear steel toes in another life and I don't miss them one bit. I wonder if in a few years someone will start churning them out - stranger things have happened!

[@mokar5946]

That’s good to know. I’ve been holding off on trying barefoot shoes as I need to wear safety shoes at work and thought this might be a problem swapping between both styles

[@easternmenace]

@@mokar5946 Once my current work boots wear out I might look into Birkenstock safety shoes. Apparently they have a model which is wide and if you remove the insole becomes zero drop so that is a bit better.

[@zdenekdolezal9646]

The problem is not flat hard surfaces. The problem is that people are used to stepping on their heels. Why? Because that's what cushioned shoes taught us. One must le-learn how to walk again. Start again like a little toddler. But with the difference that he also has to unlearn how he walked until now. Which takes time and mental skills because one has to think a lot about each step before it became natural. Some people are doing better, others are doing worse. And it is also necessary to train the weak muscles in the feet. The ones that got shriveled and limp in our white shoes because they never really moved in the sturdy shoes. It is not problem with barefoot shoes, it si problem that common shoes created.

[@Sammy00_]

Exactly. There is no adjustment period long enough to actually help if one's walking is bad. This should be the most important point in all these videos. Though it is the most difficult one for many. I have been training myself out of heelstriking over the course of 5+ years, which strengthened my calves a lot, still counting in my calf training and mostly fixed walking, the adjustment to barefoot shoes took about 7 million steps.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Both yourself and @sammy00_ make excellent points and I very much agree with you. I disagree that hard flat surfaces are not the problem, they are as they encourage thoughtless movement a trait I see quickly ironed out when people are exposed to uneven/unstable ground (there is much more thought behind each step), but you are right. It comes from re-learning a movement pattern that has been drilled into many of us since a young age and as Sammy points out, that's probably one of the hardest things to get across in each video because as a creator you can't flog a dead horse (say the same thing every time). I'll be putting out a video specifically on this soon though and thank you both for supporting the channel and sharing your knowledge, it's what makes the community so awesome 🙌🏼

[@zdenekdolezal9646]

​@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I am not sure about that. In one point of wiew I might say that it is not mindless movement on hard surfaces, it just became natural to you. If your feet are all right on long barefoot tour on hard flat services, you probably doing all your steps right, even if you stopped thinking about how you walked. Otherwise, you will be more thoughtfull next time. Also you will be still looking more where to step, because small stone on flat surface hurts more than anything else (eqal to steping on LEGO). For me after 6 years in barefoot shoes I still have to think of every step on those surfaces, because my big toes still wanna be in the "shoe position", but when I am completelly barefoot, I do not have to, and when I sometimes remember to watch my feet, they are alignet as they should be and never hurt after walks. They still might lightly hurts out of barefoot shoes sometimes tho. I might say problem with barefoot shoes is - they are still shoes. Even in their ligtests version of Huaraches sandals. It is always more natural just to go barefoot, which is impossible depending where you are walking (sometimes too cold, sometimes too hot, somewhere too dirty and dangerous - which is usually problems of bad neiberhoods). But when you can safely walk barefoot, go barefoot. Problem of flat hard surfaces is that we spend too much time on them. Too much of any surface is bad. If you'd be 90% of time balanced on extremelly uneven surface, it would be even worse. And I will say from my own experience that walk on cobblestone it is much worse than walk on flat surfaces. Because it is still hard, but uneven. Ans there is not place on that you will step safely barefoot. It will hurt anywhere on those. (Yeah, I live in country, then cobblestones on pavements in cities are quite normal). And it is amongst worst terains you may walk on. (Maybe only a chipped stone with sharp edges is worse than those.) Flat surfaces after cobblestones are like breeze for my feet. For adjusting period - I skipped that. One hot summer I just kicked shoes out on my garden, 2 months later I noticed, that my chronic backpain is gone and I never get back to normal shoes. But I sometimes get near to breaking poit when my feet started to hurt around joints. Definitelly red line signs. And I had to rest my feet for few days. But after about three years it stopped hurting on any surface. My feet get trained more, muscled up more and used to it. And yes, it usually happend on flat hard surfaces. So in transition period, be deffinitelly carfull on those. (Or not skipping adjusting period). Well do not skip adjusting period like me anyway, because it is bad idea. Do not be idiot like me and risk your feet's healt, they might broke and be destroyed forever. I at least walked only in my socks at home, so it was not new for me. But some people almost never took their shoes down, even at home and gor those adjusting period is deffinitelly necessery.

[@you0nlylivetwice]

Dogs get their paws hurt from hard surfaces, it's no different for us.

[@duncanhamilton5841]

47, 6'4", 220lbs (with a run up). Only worn Adidas Gazelles, thin sole brogues, or cycling shoes for my whole adult life, so I found transitioning to barefoot was a doddle - mostly a mental effort to train my brain to not flip out about wearing what it thought was slippers. Have the 3 variants of Vivo Primus (lite, all weather, and regular) - my favourite is the all weather, with the lites only really being suitable for gym. Here's an interesting one to ponder - lifelong cyclist (don't even own a car these days), so maybe explore whether cycling helps with barefoot due to leg development. the fact you're applying force on the front of your foot in cycling, and that a cycling pedal stroke is arguably closer to a barefoot gait than heel-strike is in terms of muscle activation.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

That is an interesting thought, in theory it would pan out. It’s low impact (as long as you stay upright) allowing the long term development of foot and ankle tendons /ligaments. Strengthens the gastrocnemius, soleus AND tibialis muscles as well as the other muscles of the leg particularly if you’re using cleats. The only draw back could be a change in pelvic position from tightness in the hip flexor or under development of adductors but both pretty easily fixes and would also explain why my dad took to barefoot shoes like a duck to water (lifelong cyclist) 🤷🏼‍♂️. Good thought, definitely something I’ll explore more 🙌🏽

[@RodrigoSantos-op6hk]

Why the lites only for the gym?

[@duncanhamilton5841]

@@RodrigoSantos-op6hk they're very thin and very light - which isn't too bad in high summer, but for most of the time they're just too thin and light for British weather

[@michaelreyes4981]

@duncanhamilton5841 what is the brand of “thin” sole brogues do you own? I have been searching to no avail.

[@stanback2415]

Cyclist also. I don’t know if cycling helped with the transition to barefoot but the transition to barefoot certainly helped my cycling. 🤭

[@ariadne-bx2gr]

I developed serious issues with metatarsalgia after 6 months of barefoot shoes - I had one week of increased activity and now I have pain I can’t shake in my right foot.

[@the_flushjackson]

Had a single pair of Xeros for over a year, use them to walk outside, workout and do indoor inclined treadmill - only thing I need to do periodically is manage callous build-up toward the ball of my feet. At times if I don’t scrape my feet for awhile you can get some painful buildup that can feel like a bunion etc.

[@Ebichumoonberry]

I have been struggling to find some cushiones shoes but with a wide toe box so I am not altering the shape of my feet.

[@christianlangfield9303]

Mostly agree. I can happily walk for miles barefoot on concrete (and do regularly), it's all about how the body adaps to use the natural shock absorbers in the hips, knees and feet. I like how Tony Riddle explains it by saying the hard ground is not compliant so you need to adapt a walking or running technique that makes the body compliant. He's ran the full length of the UK barefoot, mostly on hard ground. It's gravel that kills my feet, they're not tough enough for miles of that even with a thick layer of hard skin that's formed on my heels and forefoot. All that being said, I can't run for miles on concrete barefoot, I haven't managed to nail the right technique and gave up trying so I like to use zero drop wide cushioned shoes like Altra for that. Running has about double the impact forces of walking so for me that's where a bit of cushion helps, emphasis on the 'bit', I usually go for Altra's least cushioned models like Escalante Racer as most of their shoes are now ridiculously cushioned and hence also stiff and lots of toe spring. In fact it's very difficult finding wide flexible shoes with just a bit more cushion than Vivobarefoot. Aside from Altra, Freet shoes are the best I've found for that, especially with their 6mm Ortholote insole and their shoes have about 2mm of subtle cushion even without the insole.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Absolutely. And when you say walking miles barefoot on concrete, is this truly barefoot or in barefoot shoes (trying to quantify the struggle with gravel). Re: running on concrete I agree, it's all about the right technique. Unfortunately though under fatigue, it's technique which is first to go. I did a barefoot half marathon last year around Disney world in Florida which in itself wasn't too much of a struggle. The hard part was the accumulation required in the training leading up to that - at the start my feet killed between training runs but I got speaking to a chap called Ben at Vivo who helped Tony out in the lead up to his epic run. He suggested I double up the insoles on the Primus Trails I was using for training taking an insole layer away each month as my body adapted. Absolutely game-changer. Could be worth trying out as a middle ground between your Altras and Vivos.

[@christianlangfield9303]

@TheBarefootStrengthProject I mean truly barefoot, I used to walk a few miles to work and back most days. I know what you mean about the fatigue build up, I can do a 20 mile barefoot hike before my foot muscles start to ache but running barefoot causes fatigue much sooner than that. I don't get any fun out of running barefoot, too painful long distance and more risk of breaking a toe due to the less time to react. Whereas hiking barefoot is super enjoyable. I find Vivos are too shallow for anything more than the supplied thin insole which is why I'm enjoying Freet more these days for running shoes and when I want a bit more cushion as you can fit a 6mm insole in much better. Vivobarefoots are still my favourites for hiking (winter and rough terrain) and for the gym.

[@chrismackerdush7728]

@@christianlangfield9303Thanks for sharing. Just about to get my first pair of Vivo’s, your guidance is super helpful

[@SSolemn]

Same here. I use the Altra Escalantes for running, and Lem's Primal Persuit for everyday life. Vivo were not my favorites. In sandals I go with the Xero Z Trail

[@paro2210]

Never had an issue. You just need to stop walking/running if you start to feel any pain that isnt just the mucles. I pretty much walk 90% on asfalt. Never had any issues and I`m around 160 kg. Its been only good for me so far. My back and knee pain is gone and I walk way more than before.

[@TadeuszCantwell]

The general advice I give when people ask about this is to check how they walk. With cushioned shoes people tend to walk on the very back of the heel with a straight leg, the toes pointed up because that's where most of the foam is. Sometimes people report having heel pain from this when changing to minimalist shoes. Instead try bending the knee, taking a slightly shorter step, walking more on the heel pad to act as a cushion in coordination with the knee.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Absolutely, the stride pattern you should be using in barefoot shoes is very different to in cushioned shoes. A good exercise for practicing that is to walk on sand as you usually would (heavy heel etc), then turn around and walk back while leaving as small a footprint as possible. This generally gets people to shorten their stride, land with a flatter foot and flow forward as opposed to stomping. Obviously step 1 is to be near sand though 😆

[@TadeuszCantwell]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject hey BTW I bought your plan last night, but didn't get an email. Can you check?

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

@@TadeuszCantwell Yo! Just checked and I can see your purchase (thank you!). The email got a hard-bounce and was blacklisted so you may have either put in the wrong email address causing the bounce or your provider may not have liked my email and blacklisted it. Would you mind sending an email to the below address including the postcode from your order so I know it's you, I'll then reply with your guide. Thanks again, Clem email to: [e-mail]

[@TadeuszCantwell]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject sent

[@TheBurrito171]

I had actually adjusted my gait that way before ever trying barefoot, and it got rid of my knee pain.

[@Mr-sn2ni]

Why can't someone just make a shoe company that meets on the middle wide toe box with modern day medium cushioning? Maybe am wrong but it would seem The most logical?

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Very logical! Keep your eye out for my video coming out next Sunday 😉

[@lesweiss4273]

Try Lems. Exactly what you describe.

[@lewisse_8966]

Just from that 12,000 focus tape application, you got yourself a new sub lol

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

😂😂😂

[@JosephWolf]

Comment: I'm six foot three, 59 years old, and weigh two hundred and fifty pounds. Just getting started with barefoot shoes.And i've been on two extensive walks close 2 to 2 miles outdoors the last two days. Unlike someone who commented I do not feel anything unusual at this time. I do appreciate the idea of easing into this while strengthening my feet and stretching. Question: Can someone in the US purchase the guide? Thank you

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

That's good, what surface are you mainly walking on (less forgiving surfaces tend to cause the most problems, think concrete or sharp inclines or declines that can stress out your achilles). Answer: Absolutely and lots of people have. If you want to see the price in USD, you can change the currency at the top of the checkout page 🙌🏼

[@sewsable]

I've noticed the difference between Xero and Vivo, I tend to have a longer foot stride in Xero due to the padding, but in Vivo it's shorter because of that lack of padding. Overall I think I prefer the Vivo, I just have to make sure I know which ones I'm wearing. I've been wearing barefoot for about a year now, my feet are definitely stronger, but I still get occasions when it's cold that they try to go back to cramping.

[@christianlangfield9303]

Which Xero do you have, I find them the same ground feel as Vivo, if anything Xero a bit firmer.

[@sewsable]

@@christianlangfield9303 I've got the Kelso for women, needed something that was leather and water resistant for our wet winters here in NZ.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

That adds up - you should try out the thermal insoles from Vivo if you haven't already. Very very effective and big helpers in cold climates, I'm sometimes in Canada during the winter (-20 degrees regularly) and they're lifesavers

[@geodiamonds3187]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I got an advert for them from Vivo after I'd ordered some of their leather shoes which of course means I won't get the free shipping for them if I order them now. I do have some possum insoles in a pair of my old shoes that I might see if I can repurpose; it'll depend on how much I trimmed them. I could also try felting some of my own from my spinning stash; some merino insoles would be nice.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

@@geodiamonds3187 shame about the Vivo ones but making some of your own would be awesome! If you do spin your own you should film it - I’d watch that (and if you feel like making any extra you know where to find me 😆)

[@ryanjmay]

That transition was ridiculously clean! Fantastic to see you putting out a guide for barefoot noobies, what's your thoughts on the Geo Court III Mens for concrete walking? Thanks

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Thank you Ryan! The Geo Courts are a great shoe and I have a pair myself. Ultimately though it’s not the shoe that will be suited to walking on concrete, it’s the wearer. As long as you adjust your stride to suit you’ll be 100% fine with them 🙌🏽

[@ryanjmay]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Thanks Clem!

[@DesertRat.45]

Try finding shoes after spine surgery. Try finding a pair of shoed the last 3 years that doesnt cause pain. And always the left shoe. . When I wear Ozark Trail wading shoes, my foot pain goes away. I had a pair of Rocky Boots I wore for four years. No problems. In the last 3 years, Ive gone thru 3 pair of foot ware. Im about to switch to moccassins

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

I can only imagine! Congratulations on your recovery and look forward to hearing how you get on with the moccassins 🚀

[@Iamam313]

I have pretty severe pain in my heel from walking with barefoot shoes on concrete, as I can actually feel the concrete hurting me as I step. I haven't noticed the same type of pain/uncomfortableness when I walk on grass with the same shoes, it's much milder with natural terrain. It would really help if you could make a video with what models from different barefoot brands would help with this kind of issue and are best for concrete walking or running etc.

[@adamkreuz9068]

Lems are great for beginners. They are minimal/zero-drop but have some protection. Start paying attention to your gait, you're probably heel striking heavily

[@Iamam313]

@@adamkreuz9068 Thank you! I am yes, the problem is when I'm in a hurry I can't really be that careful about my gait. I will check them out. I had my eye on xero shoes for a while now, I'm gonna try some new pairs with more protection and see how it is, the ones from Merrell that have arch support (boots) but a wide toe box and I think zero drop too are just fine for my foot, so I will keep looking for something similar. Cheers!

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

It looks like you guys have this one covered but another option is to put another pair of insoles from the same brand into your current barefoot shoes. It's a small change but it makes a huge difference to comfort on concrete and is what I did to prep my feet for the barefoot half marathon on concrete. Absolute winner!

[@Iamam313]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject thank you! Will look into it.

[@tdcw0]

Someone mentioned gait already, but this guy has some discussion about landing on the forefoot instead of the heel kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZqve2Ocp7x4b6c. Good luck with getting rid of the pain

[@debd7424]

The problem with this is that when you wear barefoot shoes your strike pattern is on the ball of the foot instead of the heel like raised shoes, so you aren't putting all the pressure that this guy states on your heel at all. I've been wearing barefoot shoes for a year and my plantar fasciitis got better.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Not exactly, when you're walking the stride patterns tend to be quite similar to walking in cushioned shoes unless you're deliberately working on shortening your stride meaning for most people the heel strike is still quite noticeable. It's when you're running that you'll really be landing on the pad of your foot! Brilliant you've been able to get rid of your plantar fasciitis 🙌🏼

[@user-du8tg4wh3k]

Fall 2018 until today, wear barefoot shoes everywhere and everyday, usually Merrell vapor glove models and xero. Feet super strong. No matter the surface, I wear barefoot shoes,.

[@Kunsteak]

I had no choice but to go 100% barefoot shoes from the moment I heard about the wider toe box because of ingrown toenails, which caused me immense pain (I didn't want to go for another surgery and have no professionals near me willing to remove my nails completely). That said, the "reality" curve of it being 'sometimes maybe good sometimes maybe sh*t' is spot on. I haven't had any injuries so far and my knees feel better than ever (I am fairly young but had knee problems). After about 4 Months I feel like I've gotten very used to walking in barefoot shoes, my feet have gotten stronger, and i haven't had any ingrown toenail problems (they aren't fixed, it just doesn't hurt whenever I walk anymore). I hope this helps someone make a decision, but I'd still suggest not going 100% like I did since it could just be complete luck that I didn't injure myself (yet). Go slow if you can, and if you can't... the risk (injury) to reward (no pain) ratio was very much worth it for me.

[@ABC28797]

I too have wide feet , bunion , plantar fasciitis the lot 😂 what shoes have you found that fit well with wide feet?

[@jerrynelson6308]

No matter what the issues are , we live in a world that is set up for failure. Prayer changes things for the better

[@jacoblowe387]

Keep thinking about it but atm I think I'll stick to birkenstocks for the wide toe box until barefoot shoes get cheaper

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Checkout my most recent video on best barefoot sandals, there's some solid options in there for less than a pair of Birkos 🙌🏼

[@carolyn6689]

Lol..Water shoes ,I have found kind of give you that wide toe and zero drop ,sometimes thin flexible heal too. I found a nice pair of body glove Watershoes at my local Famous footwear store ..costs me $20.00 USD . I hope one day Barefoot shoes are available in footwear stores everywhere and are reasonably priced .✍🏻

[@cliffordstanger8960]

I wear minimalist outside of running. Walk all day long in minimalist. However running is a different story, especially as a 200lb aka heavy runner. I tried to run in minimalist after 2 years, and started getting calf strains. I stopped running minimalist and went with New balance rebels and no more problems.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

That’s interesting! Did you do any supplementary training when you started running in minimalist shoes or just get straight into it and were the distances the same as your usual cushioned runs or did you cut the distances down while you transitioned?

[@cliffordstanger8960]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject started out slow, work out barefoot, all the strength foot ankle work outs, started out short distance, ran up to 8 miles on gravel so that helped. I believe wearing Xero, vivo, Luna's and even Altra outside of running helps. My runs I stick to cushioned. I wish I was 150-60lbs then I would easily go back to running minimalist full time but dang food is the problem 😂

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

@@cliffordstanger8960 you and me too buddy 😆

[@ivanpanchev]

I bet the same will happen to the egg if it was dropped on a mountain trail

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

😂😂 I wouldn't be surprised. I'll find out for you next time I'm on one

[@allpowerfulmitochondria759]

If it was hard and super rocky, probably, but if it’s grassy the dirt is usually has like a bounce when it’s warm if that makes sense?

[@adamkreuz9068]

It took me like over a year to get used to it. I started on Lems Primal 2 which are super thin and walked on concrete a lot so the pain was real. After adjusting my gait it got better. I prefer Lems and Xero though because you get some cushion. However the super thin shoes feel amazing walking off-road

[@diomedes39]

I wore holes in four pairs pf xero hfs and am almost through a pair of lems primal 2s. I like the lems more and they lasted twice the time. It does take a while to get used to and if you want to strengthen your feet try deadlifts barefoot. If I do some heavy reps and run the next day my arch muscles are really sore.

[@scottcunningham5425]

I wear my Lems at work everyday, walking on concrete floors most of the time. I did add a flat insole cushion insert i bought for a couple of dollars at the big box store. It took about three weeks, but now i'm walking correctly, my legs and arches are fantastic, my knee pain went away, and my toes don't look deformed. When I wore 'modern shoes' I would wear out the sole on the outside in a couple of months, but my Lems look brand new. On the weekends or days off I wear my Feel Grounds or Splay with the inserts taken out. I do have vivos...but they don't breath well and can get an odor. I'm over a year in and tried to put on some Hokas that I spent a lot on...instant regret.

[@altslack]

Not sure about the plantar comment. I developed it several years ago and although it was mostly cured it still gave me niggling discomfort. As a last resort i went barefoot shoes and they've worked to stop the niggles when merrell plantar shoes didn't. I think now have a strong arch again.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Long term barefoot shoes tend to be quite good for plantar health as you're both increasing blood flow to and strengthening the muscles on the underside of the foot whilst also getting a form of manual manipulation (massage) courtesy of the thinner soles BUT in the short/medium term they can exacerbate existing plantar issues (either known or unknown) particularly if the wearer is overweight, untrained or transitioning to barefoot shoes on primarily unforgiving terrain - all covered in the Barefoot Transition Guide 🙌🏼

[@sourenprakash3144]

So Its good to push through wearing barefoot shoes even when spending a lot of time on concrete because you feet will adapt? I have been wearing barefoot shoes for couple months now and when I am in nature I love it and can spend my whole day in them and feel wonderful but when spending lots of time in the city I do feel my feet a bit sore at the end of the day. Should I keep wearing barefoot shoe no matter the terrain?

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

100%, you want to progressively increase your exposure to hard surfaces like concrete, particularly if you’re just starting out in barefoot shoes as your feet will adapt. You just want to avoid doing too much, too soon. If you’re unsure then checkout the barefoot transition guide on our website as that goes into MUCH more detail and will give you a specific step target relative to your body, experience & intended terrain

[@mnmlst1]

I think I'll adapt to barefoot pretty easily because I hate wearing shows and have been barefoot indoors for all my life and sometimes I go out and forget I need shoes.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Sounds like it, but there’s only one way to find out 😉

[@slothsarecool]

Two days in and I have a fracture in the bottom of my foot haha, definitely need to ease into it

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Ah that sucks... but you're 100% right. When you're recovered EASE into it. Slowly slowly catchy monkey.

[@someguyusa]

I wear a pair of whitin canvas shows from Amazon, just canvas and a thin sole. Lifting, running, and daily use. Sure, there's an adaptation period, but it's worth it. These Amazon shoes are way cheaper than everything else too.

[@jerryarkema3870]

I wonder why my favorite shoe, the Merrell Vapor Glove is never mentioned.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

I'm not saying too much, but you'll like my video coming out this Sunday 😆

[@K4rl2A04]

I need new shoes! I found out about barefoot shoes and the completely got me. But i wonder if they make sense. I am 85KG and i go out walking and stuffe cause i got a injury on my leg an that means I only need them for indoor (school) and outside (city (concrete) ). So do they make sense?

[@Acenis]

I don't see how pavement is different than other hard grounds found in nature... If anything it's easier to walk on because its flat.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

It’s the surface shock factor. In nature almost all surfaces will disperse some of the energy you put into it, like cushioning on a shoe. Those that don’t (rocks, pebbles etc) are seldom perfectly flat so your weight is distributed different on landing. Pavement/concrete is unique in that sense as it’s both perfectly flat allowing you to land with the full weight of your body in each stride, and does not dissipate the force as it’s so hard.

[@wanderlusttom]

Cool transition at 0:47 😂

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

DUDE THAT TOOK ME SO DAMN LONG TO SHOOT 😂😂 - thank you for noticing!

[@GarthDomokos]

Too bad I didn't know about barefoot shoes 55 years ago. There was always a dread I had whenever I bought shoes, believing that blisters and calluses were the norm for my feet. It was just very recently that I realized that I had minor bunions, and can only credit New Balance, and work boots that have larger toe space, that my feet never got worse.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Better late than never!

[@traceyallen4351]

I don't know. Been using barefoot shoes for two years. No problems so far. But then again ever since I was a kid and at home, I only wear socks on my feet. Maybe I've been doing barefoot before it got popular. Maybe my feet are already "trained."

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Sounds like that might be the case! The biggest problems aside from bad stride which comes from years of wearing normal shoes is lack of strength in the muscles of the foot, ankle and lower leg. If you’ve spent enough time barefoot anyway prior to transitioning it’s very possible you’d have no problem at all.

[@lannguyen-pu1db]

Most bulky shoes are very constricting for wide and thick feet.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Agreed!

[@Ou8y2k2]

This is why I'm getting Google Bard and Bing Chat to recommend zero drop, wide toebox, (max) cushioned shoes to me. If anyone has good prompts or shoe recommendations for me to use just reply to me comment. Men's size 13/2E-W in New Balance shoes.

[@TriAngles3D]

Chinese slippers (thin plastic slippery sole with stretch fabric)... Wore those throughout my teens (1980s). In order to walk correctly you needed to stop walking on the heels of your feet! Instead you lay down and role over the balls of your feet. This is the under section of your feet just behind your toes. Use your toes to grab and propel/push yourself forward.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

100%, there was some v.interesting research on the rapid development of under foot strength and toe muscle hypertrophy after doing exactly this. When you consider that, it’s not surprising so many people can undo their plantar fasciitis etc by switching to barefoot!

[@TriAngles3D]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I wore those Chinese slippers as I believed they would increase my stability, strength and stamina. There was no information back then (1980s). So it was just an assumption. It is so interesting to see how this is now developing today. I did it to improve athletic skills for track, skating, skiing and motorcycle circuit track riding. Unfortunately the footwear for all of those sports seriously cramps my toes. In particular for motor-sports as the best footwear comes from Italy. And, they love to look good. Great video.

[@adrievanduijn8334]

Hello, what type of shoe do you recommend in my case? - Big guy --> 1.98m - 120kg - Suffering on plantar fasciitis Hope to hear from someone 🙏🏻

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

One of few people that will make me look small 😆. If you're currently suffering with PF I would recommend getting yourself a pair of the Primus Trail Knit FG but wearing them progressively (starting for an hour or two each day and working up) with double insoles to take a bit of the impact out of the movement. Over time your underfoot muscles with strengthen, namely your adductor hallucis which will, eventually alleviate your PF symptoms. The process will be gradual and I advise you do not rush it (particularly at your weight!) but well worthwhile. I used to suffer badly with PF but after 6 months dedicating myself to barefoot shoes, the symptoms were completely gone.

[@adrievanduijn8334]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Thank you for your clear and extensive response, really appreciate 🙏🏻 PF is a nasty injury. It's difficult to estimate what to do and how much and when to rest. It's a search for me what kind of do's and dont's for me are most suitable. About shoes I also was thinking, with the injury now, I maybe benefit with a pair of zero drop shoes but still some cushoning, like Altras. It that maybe a good idea? Do you have some GOLDEN tips about exercises and some do's & dont's? Thanks in advance en greetz from Holland 🇳🇱💪🏻👋🏻

[@Ryan-hp6xt]

I switched and I love them, but two weeks in, my toes and front of my feet hurt so freaking bad.... Does this get better?

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Well done! Re: the pain, it’s sounds like you might have rushed the transition, I’d recommend grabbing a copy of the Barefoot Transition Guide from our website and also watching this video I did on plantar fasciitis: kzbin.info/www/bejne/amPEoGmKjcqJrLssi=Dm5YEFFQznGCXGls

[@BillNessworthyPhotography]

Is there such a thing as a hybrid? I could do with a wide toebox to stop bunions, but also a bit of cushioning because I spend most of my time walking pavements...

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Yep! Checkout the Bahe Review review I did on the channel, that could be a great option for you 🙌🏽

[@tennisisepic]

Hi, I need help, i need some socks to go with my vivo barefoot shoes that won't compess my toes together, any suggestions? (besides toe socks)

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Either go cheap and nasty ankle socks with minimal elastic or go high end and size up a little (I like stance)

[@nickgould4521]

When you walk barefoot or in shoes with no cushion soles, you need to walk like you've got moccasins on, and put the whole of your foot down flat, and not heel first, the North American Indians found that out many years ago.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Absolutely!

[@lizettevanderziel2970]

Hey, I have a question. After wearing barefoot shoes in the city for about a month, I feel tiredness in my knees even in the morning and a cramp-like pain under my left foot that comes and goes. The pain is just behind my 3 smallest toes and makes me want to pull those toes inwards. This morning I put shock-absorbing in-soles in my barefoot shoes, hoping it will prevent anything getting worse. I would really appreciate it if you have a tip for me. If the discomfort I feel now is an early sign of an injury, I really want to know. Thanks:)

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Hey! It sounds like the pain under your foot could be an early symptom of plantar fasciitis and worth addressing. Checkout my video ‘how to fix plantar fasciitis’ for some exercises to help - kzbin.info/www/bejne/amPEoGmKjcqJrLssi=uMHf8Qz3T71zeYPO

[@Totsuzenshi]

what about socks for barefoot shoes. standard sock is profiled. they squeeze your feat and do the opposite even if you wear barefoot shoes.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

You can get 5 finger socks (which are a faff IMO) or you can modify normal socks (cut the elastic to allow spread) OR go barefoot 🦶

[@jeanmusial9604]

​@@TheBarefootStrengthProjectplease tell me what you mean by "cut the elastic". My socks have the.pointy toe knit right in. Now I don't wear socks but winter will come.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

@@jeanmusial9604 It depends on the socks you've got but I wear stance and just snip the elastic around the first joint of the toes which loosens them right off. It is an art (I've ruined quite a few in trial and error) so you'd probably find it easier just buying a pair of anatomical socks. I'll put in the calendar to do a full video on this as it's probably one of the questions I get asked most, but some good brands are below: Injiji [hiker/runner models] BeLenka Plus12 Icebreaker Feetures

[@jeanmusial9604]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Thanks for the quick reply. I'll experiment on some old socks.

[@MayastarOfficial]

Great video 😊 Thank you 😘🥰💖🌈🦄✌️

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Thank you 🙌🏽

[@slavasss2189]

Agree

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

🙌🏽

[@amanitamuscaria5863]

I bought me a pair of toe shoes because they look cool.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Good for you - get after it!

[@Atg.po1]

I wear Jikatabi and Vivo

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Yet to wear Jikatabi - how do you like them?

[@m2y8v]

Short answer: yes

[@Kaisolostudio]

What are the best barefoot skate shoes??

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

There’s a kid in Venice beach that RIPS the park in Primus lites but if you’re planning on getting about in them I’d probably go for some modified vans - checkout my video titled ‘Make Your Own CHEAP Barefoot shoes’ for more on that!

[@Kaisolostudio]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Sick! I’ll check out that video, thanks for the reply 🙏🏽

[@multitablez7825]

(edit) i see you mention this right at the end, but didnt mention how to walk properly in barefoot shoes. You are completely wrong with the egg thing and terrain. .. the only important thing about wearing barefoot shoes walking on concrete, is walking properly.. ie, heel strike hitting the ground first while walking will damage knees and body in no time... but front foot striking first, while walking barefoot shoes on concrete, is completely fine and works out the muscle... this is the most critical thing with barefoot shoes, walking technique, not the type of surface. it feels weird front foot striking at first, then it is easy.

[@luislozano6073]

I understand, niothing to say just a comment of support.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@LucidDreamer54321]

If we require foam cushioning to walk on concrete, then why am I comfortable walking barefoot on concrete or asphalt? The fact is that when you have less cushion (or no artificial cushion) on the bottom of your feet, your brain will adjust the way your foot contacts the ground surface. You seem to be somehow completely unaware of that fact. Sorry to say, but this video is nonsense - especially the part with the egg. That was ridiculously wrong.

[@z0uLess]

4:06 why does your pillow case weigh as much as a person? Are you going to bed with product in your hair? 🤔

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

😆😆 it’s a rock climbing expression (at least where I trained!). Means things are easier when you’re lighter though I like your thought process

[@dawnbeltz]

I love being barefoot but it's not acceptable lol so my only thing is that I wish there was something to guard my toes because I hit them into everything. Can I get barefoot with steel toe 🤣

[@danquilty6580]

Jogging around forrest trails? In barefoot shoes? I should bloody well hope not

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

If you haven’t tried it, you haven’t lived 😉

[@AdrianSmithIDLLAS]

I made it to 2mins30secs. How to stop barefoot shoes DESTROYING your feet? Barefoot shoes don't destroy anything. Rushing the transition to barefoot shoes is what will most likely hurt you, and that's on you. (Edit: because I was being harsh)

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

Haha dude you rush too much, read the title properly and then watch the rest of the video. We've got the same message, transition time is everything and should be adapted to individual risk factors 🙌🏼

[@AdrianSmithIDLLAS]

@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Edit+Reasons. Sure, you could read the title a different way. I guess the ALL CAPS word gave rise to me reading the title in a way which you hadn't intended.

[@roselia2551]

First!

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

⚡️

[@anniwilson2534]

3 years barefoot here 🙋🏻‍♀️ Progressive overload. Vary terrain. Exercises to increase intrinsic / extrinsic muscles and tendon strength. Regular joint mobilisation and ongoing foot care. More to it than just putting barefoot shoes on!

[@sebakrol3433]

No, Barefoot just ruin your wallet

[@mariwinkler.r]

wasting an egg for a video its ridiculous.

[@GuyFawkesStillLives]

This video is pretty clueless. Maybe he needs to look into Lems shoes. They are barefoot shoes, but have cushion. This guy is spewing quite a bit of lies. Barefoot shoes have healed my knees, feet and ankles. Do not believe this video.

[@AlecFortescue]

It's not the shoes that are a problem, it is concrete. It should be illegal.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

It should definitely be illegal to walk on, not sure how well my house would stand the test of time without it’s concrete foundations though 😆

[@nicolasm.3708]

Are guns responsible for gun violence? No, the bullets should be illegal.

[@FilippoCardoni]

Could you give a honest review of Saguaro shoes? I'd love to get into Barefoot shoes but they are so expensive... I've seen some videos praising Saguaro for being relatively good quality for the price, albeit of course you can see they are cheap shoes.

[@TheBarefootStrengthProject]

I'll try and get hold of a pair next time one of their ads pops up!