I Wore BAREFOOT SHOES for 1,825 days here's what happend...

[@alexreader]

👉 Get your vivobarefoots with a discount by using code: *ALEXFIT10* 👟

[@greggtilghman6349]

Do you have flat feet? Can you put a pencil point under the arch in your foot? Well I can’t, it hurts for me to walk barefoot, I rely on arch supports to correct my posture the lumbar region of my spine and muscles. You talk about your research and show your detailed graphics made from “analysis”. But all you are is a KZbin con-man posing as an expert and your type is a dime a dozen. P.T. Barnum said it best, “there’s a sucker born every minute”. I’m sure you’ll find enough suckers to buy your over priced foot ware. But what proves me right, you didn’t mention one thing about those of us that are the imperfect exception to your “highly qualified” self-entitled opinions.

[@alexreader]

@Gregg Tilghman thanks for the feedback Gregg! I do have fairly flat arches and used to overpronate. Hope the arch supports work well for you 💪

[@tim8505]

Hey Alex! How is it in winter? Must be super cold

[@alexreader]

Hey Tim, yeah it's pretty tough. Certain models have thermal insoles and things but being so close to the floor and them being minimal it is a trade off. Im finding me tracker decons pretty good so far with merino socks

[@larsnewbould456]

Wow, totally weird thing: I came across KZbin barefoot shoes videos by accident, and it reminded me hugely of a childhood thing. I used to get immensely stressed by by having my toes squashed together in shoes. If I could, I'd remove my shoes and let my toes have freedom. Ridiculous, or so my parents thought, and after their reaction I never confided in anyone else. I'm now 56, and have learnt how to deal with this. I no longer have the freakouts, but remember them well. Panic, my toes spreading out as much as possible, and, yeah, immense stress. Gonna try these. Thanks, guys.

[@kahpb1]

during the pandemic, I started working from home, still doing 90% of my work at home, which means I'm barefoot all the time, started walking only in flip flops when necessary, and wearing shoes only once maybe twice a week. My toes spread, and I went up 2 shoe sizes. I have flat feet but they don't really hurt much anymore, and I feel them much more mobile and strong

[@alexreader]

That's so good, must feel great 💪 yeah I'm similar mine are fairly flat but don't have any issues with the arches or anything. Strong enough 💪

[@lgm2356]

I have issues with bad overpronation in the left foot and some ovepronation in the right. Also have flat feet. Do you think using socks with a PVC tape around them would be better than just being in shoes. I think that would possibly fix my flat feet? Edit: I have Xero Mesa Trail and I still think they aren't wide enough. Would Lems or Vivo be a better choice? My feet are 11 inch.

[@alexreader]

@LGM 23 what's the idea behind the pvc tape? For protection? Hmm that's a good question on not sure which are wider. You could probably find out by looking at manufacturers details

[@lgm2356]

@@alexreader Yes, I saw someone post years ago on Reddit that they used some cheap socks from polyester and put an athletic tape and it lasted 50+ miles. It's not much protection though, but I don't want to cut myself and destroy my socks after one run so I think that would be good enough and tape itself is cheap you get a lot of it from like $5. Edit: I figured out that I walk much more properly when walking completely barefoot. I think minimalistic shoes are still not good enough for my flat feet since they do ruin your proprioception. Even at home on hard floors I walk barefoot since I have trouble walking in anything else lol.

[@alexreader]

@LGM 23 have you tried the tape and socks yet? I can't remember the brand but I have seen some socks with a tough gravel like bottom for grip and outdoors

[@rotary65]

I sit at a desk for work and am 57. I live in eastern Canada. I've been struggling with ankle and calf soreness for more than a year. I tried all sorts of insoles and different regular shoes. I resumed road biking and got orthotics thinking I had plantar fasciitis. After a couple of months, it wasn't working. I realized that I needed to change strategies. I started myofascial release and shockwave therapy and working out to become stronger. This completely changed my understanding of the problem. I started managing the pain with stretching and massage. I started power walking. I switched to barefoot shoes to simplify the problem. If cushioning and support was making things worse, then barefoot would allow me to focus on building stronger feet, ankles, legs, glutes. I changed my walking stride to activate my glutes. It's a work in progress, but I am in control of my pain and the process. I just want to walk and hike without pain. I started by switching to barefoot around the house. I then got a pair of Altra Lone Pine 6, then Vivobarefoot Trail II FGs. My feet love the freedom. I just bought Ra IIIs, Tracker II FG boots, and Gobi IIIs. Discount codes helped. I'm all in.

[@alexreader]

Absolutely love this aha!! Nice work on the transitioning, altras then into the vivos is a great move. Heard great things about the lone peak, I've always been tempted by them but have the superiors and torins instead. That's awesome you have the more casual vivos to, I want some but im never in an office 🤣 what does your workout routine look like? Did you use the ALEXFIT10 code?

[@rotary65]

@Alex Reader My morning excercise routine currently involves a 45 minute mix of sit ups, push ups, squats with weights, skipping, rope, stretching and power massage. I've been doing it for about a month now and intend to gradually increase the effort. I bought my Vivos using other codes and noticed your video only afterwards. It's great that you have a discount for your viewers. It helps get these quality shoes. The drain slits on the LP6s are one thing I don't like. They're intended for draining after river crossings, but I'd rather they were waterproof instead. They're fine for transition with their cushion, but I prefer the feedback I get from non cushioned barefoot shoes.

[@daniel-wificidr]

I have had my own Vivo's for about 6 months now, and I am still transitioning. At the beginning of the year, I transitioned to Altra zero-drops. It took a few months to get comfortable enough for long runs in those (20km+). Once I got comfortable in those, I started wearing the Vivo's about once a week. I can do a half marathon in them now, but I am still working on being able to wear them all week. I volunteered at an 80km trail race this weekend and most of the DNF's were due to rolled knees and ankles. I think zero-drop/barefoot give you stability over speed. If you want to run into old age, stability is more important IMO.

[@alexreader]

That's an amazing insight, I definitely agree. Weirdly though I went the other way to you 🤣 I went straight to barefoot shoes now im in altras for a lot of my running and wear barefoot shoes for everything else. Mainly because I wanted to get some faster time in events. But in the longer term gaining that foot strength even if you're a bit slower is probably the best move. Interesting view point as a volunteer seeing all the DNFs!

[@myth010gy]

I remember when I switched to barefoot shoes and it was because a friend wanted my thoughts on "Five Fingers" since I was a kinesiology major (this was maybe 10 years ago). I was usually walking around, indoors at least, barefoot or in sandals because sneakers never felt right. When I switched it was almost instant that my semi-constant knee pain dissipated and I found joy in walking. The only shoes I wear are barefoot shoes and even if people are bemused/befuddled by my toe shoes I'll never stop wearing them.

[@alexreader]

That's great you had some instant relief switching to them. Yeah I'm with definitely with you on that I wont be switching back! Foot freedom 🥰

[@alexreader]

@JuicyTomato yea swapping sooner would have been very beneficial 🤣 but some people don't swap at all so we are ahead ahah

[@roscoedash6673]

@JuicyTomato Why choose toe socks over "normal" socks?

[@cathwalsh9921]

@@roscoedash6673 if your shoes allow, toe socks allow your toes to seperate. If you’ve ever had the thing of your socks pulling tight at the toes when you push your foot into your shoe and pulling your toes together, toe socks won’t do that so great for pushing your feet into boots, for instance.

[@Tazerboy_10]

🤔

[@staceykeene8016]

I am one of those plantar fasciitis victims. I have learned more than I ever cared to about foot anatomy, function, and the shoes we wear. After nearly two years of often debilitating pain, I finally have a track to recovery thanks to a physical therapist with a passion for barefoot lifestyle. My podiatrist wanted me in a heavily cushioned prescription shoe with arch supports and performing 1,000 calf stretches per day. Of course anyone watching or reading here likely knows how counterproductive that is to foot health. The next step would have been surgery. So after an evaluation, my PT put me on a set of exercises to start strengthening my feet and legs. He also discussed barefoot/minimalist/zero-drop shoes in depth and advised me to research them. I started with a basic Altra shoe for walking (at this point, with the level of pain I was in, running wasn't even a thought on the horizon). They do have some cushion, but are zero-drop and the arches are minimal. This is/was a fantastic transition shoe and started training my feet and legs to walk more naturally. I also bought a pair of Tadeevo shoes, which I do love, but they are more endgame than transition. Since I live in Florida, I also had to add a sandal because I spend most of the year in them. I decided on Xero Shoes z-track sandals. I absolutely loved these (well, mostly). They have a classic sporty look but can pair with most outfits. These have minimal soles and are extremely flexible to get that barefoot action. My main issue with Xero is that something in the nylon connector bits is very irritating to my sensitive skin and it causes me to itch terribly with extended wear. Also, I feel like the straps loosen as the day goes on and I have to keep tightening them. I just this week ordered a pair of leather minimalist sandals from an Etsy store called Crupon. Holy cow - they are gorgeous and so much fun to wear. They are expensive and ship from Bulgaria, but totally worth it to me. I am looking forward to wearing these out. Last point! (LOL) Flip flops are a big fat no-no! Without a strap around the back of your heel, your foot has to "scrunch up" to keep the shoe from falling off. When you walk, your foot should stretch and mold to the ground with each step. I am happy to say that my plantar fasciitis is much improved now. Not to 100%, but with time I am sure to get there.

[@alexreader]

This is amazing ha. I love my altras to, I have the torins and the superiors for road and trail running. Which model did you use to transition? And whos your PT, ? must give him a follow on instagram if hes there ha :D

[@KatNicholson]

Anyone else notice how everyone always talks about the need to ease into barefoot shoes, but no one ever seems to actually do that themselves? (I’m the exact same, of course!) thanks for sharing your experience with us! :)

[@alexreader]

🤣so true! Seems like the safer/wiser option though. Do as I say not as I do 🤦🏼‍♂️🤦🏼‍♂️🤣

[@hardtailjefe]

This makes so much sense. But I’m doing my research before jumping in. I appreciate all your hard work and info!

[@alexreader]

Thanks Jeff! Definitely worth doing your own research to see if it's a good fit for you 💪

[@Tate525]

Take your time, i have been free of knee pain ever since going barefoot.

[@BWT599]

Great video. I’m 4 months into my barefoot journey with Vivobarefoot (Tracker II and Forest ESCs) and Xero Alpine boots (great for Canadian winters). They have made my feet so much stronger and I now wear Injinji socks everyday and when I play Ice Hockey. I seriously can’t go back.

[@alexreader]

Awesome, good to hear! Do the socks help with extra warmth?

[@andrewhasaname]

@@alexreader I have the Forest ESCs as well, yes socks help with the warmth significantly, making the boots some of the best out there.

[@alexreader]

@@andrewhasaname that's great to hear! They are on the wish list

[@eccio]

swapped over and it helped me a ton. i lived mostly bare foot and only used shoes like a few times a month and i was always confused why they caused my feet to cramp and caused a ton of pain. swapped to lems drifters (i was going to go vivo but they place didnt have them in stock in my size. i really like the lems though) before a event i had to go to where i would have to walk in shoes 4 hours a day. they saved me i was out walking coworkers in normal shoes and didnt deal with the pain they did. plus im actually walking more now that my shoes dont hurt me and happily i didnt need to transition because i was already used to bare foot

[@alexreader]

That's great to hear 😀 lems look really cool

[@Maddie_Madds]

I love my Vivo Barefoot shoes. I have the Primus lite trainers, and the Trackers for when I'm hiking in the forest. My feet were natural shape before but now even more so. However most people don't believe me and think I'm chatting bs when I say that they'll prevent injuries, fix your foot & knee pain, posture etc. And I'm a full time Personal Trainer too and people still don't believe me. I think it that people choose not to believe me as they refuse to accept that modern footwear is an issue, and "Why would they sell something that can harm you" kind of thinking. But the approval nod thing when you see another person wearing them is so true 😂😂😂

[@alexreader]

🤣 I know the feeling!! I don't often mention the barefoot thing to most unless they ask for that reason, they can't believe it! Awesome you're a full time PT too, where are you based? I'm glad it's not just me looking at other peoples shoes 🤣

[@Maddie_Madds]

@@alexreader I'm based in Hertfordshire. Yeah people won't believe it and some actually think Barefoot is bad 🤯 A common response is "oh but my pediatrician has gave me some special arches that will stop my pain" but they never do stop it 🙈🤡

[@thedykshow]

Best decision I have made was going to a barefoot shoe, been wearing the Hykes Escapes and love them, soo comfy and my feet feel so good. Feel like I have been lied to all these years with regular shoes and Never going back to regular shoes.

[@thomas1942]

I just recently started getting interested in barefoot shoes. I have plantar fasciitis. My plan is to start with minimalist shoe like the New Balance Minimus TR (i think that's the model name). I'll wear them to work at the beginning, and if it works out ok, i'll take them for my daily morning 3½ mile walk. I'm too well fed currently for running, but i do include the occasional 1 min jog/run when i have the energy. When i first started trying to fix my plant fasciitis, i always thought i might mainly be from how week my left foot is.

[@alexreader]

That's sounds like a great plan! Yeah exactly, if you can strengthen everything up around the foot and ankle by wearing barefoot shoes it should only help!! A gradual approach is a good idea

[@callmeswivelhips8229]

I've been wearing barefoot shoes for years. I am now experimenting with sock-shoes and _actually_ going barefoot. I've also spent enough time stretching out my toes by working my ability to intertwine my fingers in-between my toes. That way I can really spread my toes out and grip the ground with them. My big toe is starting to not face forward, but slightly out to the side instead. It's really cool to watch the structure of my feet develop!! The only last note I have, for myself, is that I rolled my ankle in college. And never had it looked at. So now I have this bump in my foot of scar tissue. That I am slowly massaging out to bring my foot back up to speed. It really impacts the rest of my body.

[@alexreader]

Nice work, it's epic to see changes! I've had some small ones but nothing major. I haven’t use toe spacers or anything though

[@callmeswivelhips8229]

@@alexreader Why use toe-spacers when you can use your fingers???

[@alexreader]

@@callmeswivelhips8229 good point, I can't keep them in all day though right aha

[@nowster]

I've been wearing Vibram FiveFingers since late 2011. Had flat feet at the time due to hypermobility and the latest set of orthotics had hurt my feet. Within six months of being "barefoot" I had arches. Two years ago I started running in them. And the joke is that everyone without exception asks the VFF wearer, "Are those shoes comfortable?"

[@alexreader]

🤣 that's so true. Everyone's first question, ironic

[@paulysci925]

Bont vaypor+ double wide is the best fit for me worth every penny 👌 💯 I have both the vaypor+ and the helix models in double wide. I prefer the vaypor plus at the end of the day. Give the double wide a chance and I'm sure all you cycling shoe issues will be over 🙂👍🤙

[@alexreader]

They do look great, I have the bont riots wide at the moment and they seem to be doing the trick 💪🤙

[@samperras]

Thank you, your positive words have started me down a new path

[@alexreader]

Ah exciting to hear! Is it something you've considered before?

[@samperras]

@@alexreader no. Not at all! Im going to try them, slowly first around the house for 30min intervals, ankles have been giving me grief, tried all types footwear, all the big brands, $$$$, what you say makes sense , wish me luck

[@alexreader]

@Sam Perras that sound like a good plan, build into it slowly and I'm sure your feet will get stronger and thank you for it!! Will be interested to know how you get on 💪👟 good luck

[@mrcrackerist]

I would say some people would get away with switching directly, for example I stopped running and switched to barefoot walking slower and more carefully. but it all depends on your starting point.

[@qui-gone]

I'm from india and after years of shoe induced bunions, i had completely switched to sandals in urban areas. When i had to go on a hike in the jungles with snakes or when i had to attend business meetings, i had to painfully get back into boots or shoes that made my toes hurt and gave boils on toes that got compressed. It's only been 12 days but switching to barefoot has been like getting a superpower, especially while climbing. I can easily grip rocks that were too painful before and i doubt I'll go back to regular shoes again

[@alexreader]

That's awesome to hear! It does feel like a superpower ha

[@joebersik9846]

I have been wearing vivo's for over a year.....will never go back. Quick tip.....got tired of putting on those toe socks(pita)...so looked into diabetic socks and found the "Extra Wide" sock company and they are awesome and roomy. no more taking 5 minutes to put your socks on!!!

[@alexreader]

Awesome 💪🤣 Good tip, I still have normal socks but they are pretty roomy ones

[@christianperi]

I was someone who always wore tight heel raised, crammed toe box, cushioned supportive shoes for the last 10-12 years all day everyday and NEVER walked barefoot, not even when I got home from school or work, never took my shoes off until bed. I developed some foot pain in April 2022 and finally in Sept 2022 I decided to switch straight into some Altra Lone peaks, about 4 months ago. Boy I will tell you it has been a rough journey so far. I started out feeling pretty good in them. My feet feel like they have finally been freed. However starting around October 2022 my feet started getting sore and have been pretty sore since. Ive been trying to gauge how much on my feet time and rest time I need in order to have minimal soreness/pain throughout each day. I have noticed some changes and my feet are starting to feel stronger. It definitely takes time and Im hoping to get back to my normal activities soon here. There’s no way I can wear “normal shoes” again as my feet now hurt even more in those! Thanks for the video!

[@alexreader]

Great story Christian, it's definitely not easy especially if your feet have been so used to "normal" shoes for years! Altras was probably the best move you could have made since they still have some cushioning but maintain the Great benefits of a wide toe box and zero drop. Hopefully your feet continue to get stronger 💪 it is a balance, working the muscle but also getting enough rest/recovery!

[@sidilicious11]

I love Xero Shoes. I started with Vibram 5 Fingers and liked them but switched to Xeros when they came out with a hiking boot. Then I tried other styles of Xeros and really like them too. It feels so good to feel the ground and have basically high tech moccasins on.

[@alexreader]

I've heard great things about the xeros! Yeah definitely feels awesome 🙌

[@phroskies]

Went straight to Xeroshoes 2 years ago and never looked back. I am always barefoot at home as it is, but it still took roughly 3 months for all the new aches and pains that come with first wearing barefoot shoes to resolve. Now wearing regular shoes hurts.

[@alexreader]

Thats great. Have you ever had a pair of vivos? Just interested in how they compare. The xeros look great.

[@phroskies]

@@alexreader never had vivos, but i will definitely try them next as i heard great things.

[@alexreader]

@@phroskies will be interested to see what you think!

[@blubbblubb6239]

Actually in the recent years plenty of new barefoot brands evolved! Some have wider toebox, others a more padded sole (e.g. if your natural fat-padding on your feet gets less --> joenimble) or a veeeery flexible and thin sole for authentic propioperception, others look just as fashionable (e.g. Zaqq) as normal shoes and again other once are adapted to extreme basics or outdoor sports or are made from natural or vegan materials or completely produced in one country for fair and ethical production. It is really important that you slowly transition, since all your musculature and tendons might be shortened, underdeveloped etc.. But once you transitioned and found your favourite pair of shoes, you will be very happy!

[@alexreader]

Yes! great points. So many options now for differing needs and preferences, its awesome.

[@scoobtoober2975]

Just bought some splay, hope they don't disappoint. I used to wear five fingers. Then i became pre-diabetic and had plantarfacitus . no go for barefoot style. Fixed the pre-diabetus. OMAD LCHF, now I can walk barefoot on concrete no problem. no my regular shoes don't fit. Time to trash all the narrow shoes. ASOLO GTX boots, no way. Can't cram my foot into those anymore. Used to wear them all the time. Super interesting. Dr mark Cucuzzella wears those silicone toe separators and can run barefoot if needed. My big toe is a bit bent. Less bent that before my diet change. Very interesting too. Give it a try.

[@alexreader]

Good work on the diabetes 💪👏 im currently testing toe spacers too! Trying it on one foot for 30 days to see the difference it makes ha

[@scoobtoober2975]

To work into it. At home walk around the neighborhood in sandals or socks. Or visit the beach more often. Pick loafers, or slip on shoes. Then workout in less drop sneakers. Altra maybe.

[@alexreader]

Yeah good tips!!

[@carpepedes3520]

Thanks for sharing this take on barefoot shoes, Alex. Your bare feet and toe spread looks great! Running trails in wet socks would be unbearable for me ha! 😅

[@alexreader]

Thanks so much for the feedback 😀 aha 🤣 good point, I think by the time I'm warm and running it doesn't bother me ha

[@carpepedes3520]

ha, right on brotha.

[@mkscott12]

I have been wearing barefoot shoes for 6 years and have never gone back to regular shoes, been wearing Treks Airo and love them

[@plipassheton]

Cheers for the discount mate, I'm 12 months into wearing barefoot shoes and on my 3rd pair. I never see myself going back, I'm stronger more comfortable and more stable everywhere.

[@alexreader]

Hey Phil, no worries. Which ones did you get!? Awesome, definitely stronger for it. All my shoes have to be barefoot or at least wide/zero drop now 🤣

[@plipassheton]

@@alexreader I got the primus trail knit Fg. I already have the Tracker II FG and a pair of Merrell Vapour Glove 3's. I've got a run with my son tomorrow morning it's just a shame they won't be with me in time for that.

[@alexreader]

@Phil Assheton they looks so nice, which colour? Ah that is annoying, you will get a lot of use out of them once they arrive though 💪

[@plipassheton]

@@alexreader I've gone for the obsidian, would of loved the orange but I'd like to get some casual use out of them and I don't think the wife would be seen in public with me in hi-vis trainers.

[@alexreader]

@Phil Assheton 🤣🤣🤣 I've often wondered about those orange ones. They do look pretty cool

[@gl3110]

What I'd like to know is how come shoes with like 50% less material cost like 100% more than a regular shoe.

[@alexreader]

🤣 I know, you'd think they be cheaper! I'm putting down to scale of manufacturing being small since they are fairly niche, combined with the fact they want to be an ethical sustainable company. Would like them to be cheaper but worth it for me 😀

[@johnatyoutube]

Thanks for the great video. I've become a big proponent of barefoot shoes and going barefoot when possible. It's made a huge difference in my foot strength and balance and posture. And you're right about the issues with conventional shoes with bulky soles, raised heels, and narrow toe boxes. Vivos are beautifully made and they're the best choice for certain feet. With barefoot shoes, it's most important that the shoe fits your foot well and isn't too tight or sloppy. Ideally, it should be shaped perfectly for your foot. Unfortunately, the is a new movement and few barefoot shoes have customization options. So, right now it's important to find the right manufacturer for your feet. Be careful to get models with true unattached tongues if you have high insteps or high volume feet so that you can spread the shoe. Vivos with no tongues or fully attached tongues just won't work for me. Vivos are also problematic if you have wide feet which I also have. I'm trying Freet's which aren't quite as flashy but are known to work better for people with wide and high volume feet. I will say that Vivo has a great return policy and was very easy to work with. If you're in the US, you have to return them by DHL though, and there are few DHL offices. I had to go to the nearest airport.

[@alexreader]

Thanks John! Appreciate the comment, useful info. I've actually seen a lot of people in the last few days trying freets out. Might have to try them myself...

[@johnatyoutube]

@@alexreader I got the Freet Feldoms today and they're like night and day with the Vivo Tracker. I have plenty of space in the shoe in the toe box and instep and the laces aren't even wide apart because I got the wider fit. They're super comfortable and grippy just like the Trackers. I did a 2 mile light hike including some bouldering and rough trail walking and they were wonderfully comfortable and reliably grippy yet with a good ground feel! I like the extra tread on this model for hike-walking.

[@alexreader]

@@johnatyoutube that sounds perfect, how they fit makes such a big difference. Will check them out for sure

[@SelfMadeDocumentary]

Vivo & feelgrounds are great looking shoes. Before I tried barefoot shoes, I did a lot of new shoes and socks around the house on the garden. I also always used to wear converse which to me are somewhat minimal and are quite almost 0 drop so I was kinda used to that flimsiness of a shoe. I got a pair of vivo in December 2020, and they’re still going strong to this day. I wear them daily. My coach at kickboxing also wears barefoot shoes, and we wear the individual toe socks, a lot of people like to make fun of us for that.

[@alexreader]

So good that your vivos are holding strong after all that time. Primus lite model? I thought about converse to initially as they are pretty dam close 💪

[@SelfMadeDocumentary]

@@alexreader I can’t remember what they were called. I went with one if the everyday style. I don’t think they are for sale now.

[@alexreader]

@@SelfMadeDocumentary ah fair enough, solid pick though

[@ZacAndoe]

I have super wide feet. Started using vivos for discgolf 1 month ago. I realized last week that I longer have ankle and knee pain. I used to have to strap my ankle every time I played. Now pain free and didnt even realize.

[@alexreader]

That's awesome, quick to see the benefits too 👌

[@scarlettapplejaxsaj1767]

If you want a combat look boot for winter, I have the Peekro Go’s and I LOVE them! Just an fyi.

[@alexreader]

Awesome thanks for sharing! I've actually never heard of the peekros so that's good to know

[@scarlettapplejaxsaj1767]

@@alexreader I think they’re from Czechoslovakia…. I like them as they have styles that look good with almost anything, for when you step out of running shoes.

[@alexreader]

@@scarlettapplejaxsaj1767 ahh that might be why then. Cool!

[@TheAngieStoned]

I ride my bike wearing my vivo's everyday, only about 10km to and from work but works like a charm I reckon. It is impossible to go back though, my old shoe wardrobe has been rendered completely useless 😄

[@alexreader]

My shoe wardrobe is much the same, all vivos or wide fitting shoes now ahah

[@TheAngieStoned]

@@alexreader Tracker deacon fg2's arriving in the mail tomorrow, winter is literally saved 😄

[@alexreader]

@Hey Pebbles ah amazing. So exciting 🤣 love mine, hope they work well for you 🤙🥳

[@tictactoe325]

I’ve been barefoot for years, but only recently increased to being more active. Just love them, I’ve got the Vibram five fingers, it was the best feeling today just being able to wrap my toes and foot around a branch as I took my dog for a swim. I felt secure and stable.

[@alexreader]

Love it, can definitely relate to that!

[@DAXimusTT]

Nice one. Thanks for this. I first discovered vivo a few months ago and only looked into them. Unfortunately I've broadened my search and its bewildering how many different brands there are. Either way I'm set to replace every single pair of regular old toe squashing shoes I own. Cheers.

[@alexreader]

Nice one, yeah absolutely there's loads of options now. What are in your favourites? Ha me too!

[@DAXimusTT]

@@alexreader I have to agree with you. Vivo seems to be leading the pack but i'm also interested in Xero Shoes and Lems for casual styles.

[@alexreader]

@DAXimus definitely! I do need to try those, they look awesome. But just loving the vivos to much ha

[@ZeriocTheTank]

Recently switched to Altra Outroad to give some kind of zero drop shoe a try. Despite them being moderately cushioned I feel that they're the best fit for me right now. It's a nice transition away from the extra cushion without throwing myself to the wolves by going all in with the barefoot feel. Also I'm a bike commuter, so having that bit of cushion I feel will protect my feet whenever I need to make a quick stop while cycling. Something tells me that doing that with a shoe with no support is asking for trouble.

[@alexreader]

Yeah that's a good idea, I love my altras. I have the superiors and the torins at the moment for running. Do you not fancy clip in pedals?

[@ZeriocTheTank]

@Alex Reader When it comes to cycling clothes I've been rather resistant in going down that route. The shoes are included in that as well. I just don't want to spend all that money on shoes that'll require me to constantly carry around a second pair of shoes since it's not advised to wear clip on shoes when walking. I also don't want to be one of the cyclist that fails to unclip their shoes and slowly on their side at a red light lol. I've seen it happen quite a lot actually.

[@alexreader]

@ZeriocTheTank Haha can absolutely understand, I've gone down the slippery slope of cycling clothing 🤣 I was resistant to the shoes for a long time and to be honest I don't think they are superior, does save my other shoes getting hammered on the bike though. Definitely recommend cycling shorts or bib shorts though for the saddle sores 🤣

[@alexreader]

@ZeriocTheTank oh and I've been one of those cyclists 🤣 think it's a right of passage. I couldn't get out at a red light, luckily everyone had stopped and watched me comically fell sideways. We missed the green light 🤣

[@thatgirlhasathousandplans]

are the altras zero-drop? I've been looking for a zero drop shoe that also has cushion, do people make these?

[@the_flushjackson]

Nice overview. Could you talk more about your experience with durability and with the amount of activity you do, how often you're getting new shoes? Also, just curious what kind of sock game you're rocking in all of that mud / water. Thanks!

[@alexreader]

Thanks!! Yeah good questions, I'm rotating shoes much more often now which makes it harder to tell. But as an average I'd probably say I get a year out or a pair depending on usage. I'm doing less running in them at the moment but I still wear them daily, standing on gym flooring and I workout in them almost daily. In terms of socks I usually wear normal ones or thin running whens if it's going to be wet and muddy! Hope that helps somewhat.

[@yinggamer7762]

The only bad thing I’ve seen with barefoot shoes is the price is completely outrageous. It’s a shame because I’d love to try out different models of some shoes but just so expensive for seemingly no reason.

[@alexreader]

Yea I have to agree! They have less material and are simpler, you'd think they would be really cheap 🤣 a lot of the brands to try and go the ethical and sustainable route though and I know that can be pricy

[@Stickyrips]

Super high quality materials will outlast any shoe u buy for the same price. In Canada I just got a pair for $100 each. Bought 2 cuz fuck ya what a deal. Reg 250

[@alexreader]

@@Stickyrips what did you get?

[@Stickyrips]

@@alexreader vivobarefoot primus and another model

[@alexreader]

@Ryan Simcock oh man that's exciting ha!

[@ddroz23]

im 6'5 315 and had running shoes most of my life. my feet would burn and ache. I had arch supports the whole 9. I kept getting more cushion and didn't help. I bought a pair of saguro from amazon. I put them on and put with the break in period. Never going back. Back pain gone. Arches getting stronger.

[@swiftgoobie]

Bro who ever eases into anything. If your gonna do it, DO IT ALL THE WAY

[@alexreader]

🤣 love it. All in baby 💪🤙

[@VictorS93]

If your looking for "casual looking" barefoot shoes, "Feelgrounds" are perfect, I walk around in them all the time, while I run daily in "Five Fingers" and hike in "Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC's".

[@alexreader]

That's awesome that you have different once for different uses. I'd be keen to try the feelgrounds I just don't often wear casual clothes aha

[@germanus7302]

Personally i wish it was easier to find zero-drop shoes that AREN'T barefoot. 1) as an entry 2) for city living since concrete and asphalt takes it's toll. 3) it's actually cold where i live and winter barefoot shoes are not adequate. But i will just use big boots when necessary. 4) when im not in a cold place im in a desert. A few mm of rubber is not enough protection from hot rocks and giant thorns. It has helped with some problems, but building the strength to walk on hard surfaces all day is not coming as easily.

[@alexreader]

You're absolutely right! Have you come across altra before? That's what I use I talk about them a bit in my most recent video

[@Basti_Tetze]

I've bought some pairs of Vibram Toe Shoes as my first barefoot shoes and ran 10km the same day. I could barely walk for 1 week and only run very little distances for another one. My calves were so cramped. A friend of mine had a similar experience, also transitioning to quickly. Starting off slowly is, as said, very important here. But once you're into it there is no turning back. You're much agile and it feels way more natural. Running on my heels feels so wrong now.

[@alexreader]

Straight in on a 10km, pretty hard stuff 🤣 yeah definitely, glad it's feeling good now 💪

[@Basti_Tetze]

@@alexreader Yeye, my calves were able to handle some barefoot half marathons in the past, pretty happy about that. Always funny when you start a race and you're the only one running in barefootshoes. Just found out about Feelgrouds barefootshoes some days ago. Got me some Winter gear, seems pretty good.

[@alexreader]

@Basti Tetze 🤣 thats amazing! Yeah I can relate to that, feels pretty bad ass doing it barefoot💪 yeah feelgrounds seem to be getting more popular! Must try them at some point. Let us know what you think

[@bryanwebb9036]

I tried on my first pair of Vibram Five Fingers over 10 years ago, and after about 30 seconds of feeling strange they swiftly felt _just right_. I did take the advice to ease into them by wearing them around home for a number of weeks, then went all out on a weekend vacation walking all over New Orleans’ French Quarter. After 2 days, my legs were feeling tired, so I went back to my joggers but that put my legs in pain. I’ve not gone back since as much as I can avoid it.

[@alexreader]

Hey Bryan, nice one! Maybe you jumped in to quick? After 2 days that was probably a big workout for the feet and legs!!

[@bryanwebb9036]

@@alexreader I think I mis worded the end of my comment. I’ve not gone back from my VFF’s ever since. Those 2 days were quite a workout, but my legs felt far better with my VFF’s than with my old joggers. Now I really only wear alternatives to my VFFs when the ground is wet as I hate wet socks, and my feet sweat too much to skip socks. ;-)

[@alexreader]

@@bryanwebb9036 ahhh that makes sense!! Awesome 🥳🥳🥳

[@LiefRunsFar]

@@bryanwebb9036 I know a guy, been a few years now, but he's run over 100 marathons in VFF and would walk in them too.

[@lalystar4230]

from a fashion perspective, be lenka's and leguano's look really pretty good I think, even some people not into barefoot shoes love the way they look. Especially the Leguano Husky! Also, a couple months back I just went straight into barefoot shoes and even without prep or transitioning or anything it was pretty good. The first few days I noticed I had a bit of a hard time getting my 10k steps in, but after 3 days I noticed I just went up and walked more often than I used to and it was less tiring to stay on my feet all day long. (I do have to admit that when at home I usually already go barefoot (or just socks) anyway, ever since I was a kid, so perhaps that has helped a lot) One very big drawback is that during wintertimes, these shoes really are a lot colder, but having some barefoot wool inserts helps loads with that!

[@alexreader]

Yes! I'm in a few barefoot groups on Facebook and the lenkas seem really popular, they look pretty cool. Nice transitioning 💪 I definitely agree about the cold in the winter months. I think the floor is super cold and if there's little between you and the floor it's just hard for them to keep your feet warm. I've got thermal insoles in and wear marino socks at the minute 🤣

[@lalystar4230]

@@alexreader yeah, i'm wearing double liner socks rn with the thermal insole. Any preferences on thermal insoles on your side btw? I much prefer the aluminium foil + 3mm wool inserts as they're thinner than the 'standard' 4mm wool inserts, but a lot warmer as wel

[@alexreader]

@@lalystar4230 I need to try that! I've only got the ones that come standard with the vivo tracker decons. Wool inserts sound like they might be better !

[@blubbblubb6239]

I also agree with water resistant and winter shoes, however, it seems companies are adapting their products to that as well. I also use some wool/aluminium/felt inlays and thicker socks and try to move my feet more to produce muscle warmth.

[@alexreader]

@@blubbblubb6239 @lalystar42, i'm going to try some wool/foil inserts, any specific recommendations?

[@22stefaniesun]

looking forward to hear more from you. just got my first pair from vivo

[@alexreader]

Awesome Steve! Which ones did you get? What would you like more info on? 💪

[@22stefaniesun]

@@alexreader GOBI III MENS, I am just starting, so infomation about transition from normal shoes to barefoot would help a lot. thanks

[@ADyess086]

In one of your videos you mentioned buying vaporflys. Do you still incorporate those within a barefoot rotation?

[@alexreader]

Ahh yea the vaporflys! I really didn't get on with them ha. They felt uncomfortable, unstable and no faster. But I didn't get them much chance to be honest. I now have either vivos or altras. Currently have the torins and vanish carbons for "racing" ha.

[@robertrudik3022]

Nice journey recap. I switched over barefoot by trial and error. I wore Salomon GTX all year before because I like hikes, long walks etc so they were all purpose to me, but I experienced knee pain especially when driving. I'm quite tall 188cm with pretty long legs so even I set car seats to highest position I still end with knees pretty high (+ salomon high sole) not relaxed position. I got specific exercises to strengthen my knee lingament which solved most of the pain but it was still there. So starting this year I decided to try barefoot at least for spring/summer/fall season. Grabbed vivo primus lite 3 all weather. Continued with long walks, no hikes so far. I remember my first long walk I had huge legs muscle fever indicating something is different. Knee pain was gone after month. Now it's winter, barefoot are not really warm with temps around 0 even with insoles, time to wear salomon again. I immediately felt they are tigh and short. Same pair I wore 7 months ago. So I think I'm stuck with barefoot which is probably good for my feets, but not for my wallet :D I already ordered winter ones from Koel with lamb wool inside, probably better choice for winter season, but I'm looking forward to try some trekking models next year. Cheers ;)

[@alexreader]

Really interesting, I'm also suffering a bit with the cold and the barefoot shoes. These tracker decons do a fairly good job but I'm now wearing thermal/merino socks with them. Looking into getting some wool inserts as well 🤣 that's the only downside and that our feet don't fit in other shoes now 🤣 but they are stronger and healthier 💪🤞 I might have to try some of the vivo boots 👀

[@cathwalsh9921]

@@alexreader after three years of barefoot shoes I wore some medium high heels to a party. Popped back to my car and swapped them for my Mukishoes as I’d felt as if my big toe joint had slightly popped out of position in the heels. Other shoes, I’ve grown out of. Can’t do the pointy toe thing anymore.

[@alexreader]

@Cath Walsh yeah I don't blame you! I've not had to wear heels much but they seem a nightmare 🤣

[@cathwalsh9921]

@@alexreader ha 😄 I’ve never been able to wear very high heels. I don’t know how girls can say they’re comfy. My mum always took care to get the ‘right’ shoes when I was young. Fine as a toddler, but as a female when you get to a certain age the toes start to round more. Plus I hated wrinkles in my socks (no Lycra then). So I developed ‘bunions’ shaped feet. Not full on bunions. My brother has the same shape feet with no bunions. Wearing boys shoes would have helped and having toe socks wouid have made a massive difference. There needs to be a lot more education for parents around kids footwear needs and a re-education of what looks ‘normal’ in a shoe.

[@alexreader]

@Cath Walsh absolutely right, girls are definitely at higher risk of that sort of thing. It's almost normal. I've just bought my 9 year old some vivos 🥰

[@WhoThaCazer]

I swapped to barefoot shoes trying to get rid of niggling ankle ankle pains year ago. 1st week felt like my feet are burning, but it went away when got used to shoes.

[@alexreader]

That's good to hear, did you swap to barefoot straight away and wear them all the time?

[@WhoThaCazer]

@@alexreader Barefoot shoes do ahve really helped alot on my ankle pains but my ankles are so messed up whit sports that bad that i dont think all pains will go away ever. One thing i need say that i need use safety shoes in my work and ankle control is way harder whit normal sole shoes.

[@LiefRunsFar]

@@WhoThaCazer there are barefoot work boots.

[@wking8]

I switched to Altra 2 years ago. My legs were so pissed for 6 months going zero drop. Now I can never go back

[@alexreader]

🤣 didn't know what hit them. Which altras do you have?

[@wking8]

@@alexreader I have the hoarded every pair of the Torin 4.5 plush I can find. Sitting on 4 unworn pairs, and 6 semi worn ones. I love their quantic midsole. It's the only one that has ever given me enough forefoot cushioning. I've tried their new "ego" midsole and I find it to be trash. Feels like concrete.

[@alexreader]

@wking interesting you say that I love my torin plush 4.5's. But they are fully worn out now so I have the 5s and I do find the cushioning harder in comparison. Might try and find some more 4.5s too

[@wking8]

@@alexreader Well if you're a size 10....I'm sorry. I took em. All.

[@alexreader]

@@wking8 🤣🤣 10.5

[@schubi128]

I wear barefoot shoes since 2016 and the most important thing is not how you transit to barefoot shoes. The most important thing is to transit from walking over the heel to forefoot walking and running. Walking over the heel with barefoot shoes does harm, period. To change the way how I walk was the challenging part, not because of weaknes or pain but because of 40 years of walking differently. Even after 6 years I catch myself putting the heel on the floor first. Everything is fine when I'm walking a while but on short ways, only some steps, it still happens that I walk over the heel for some steps before I remember. As for the brand of barefoot shoes it almost does not matter. I got a pair of Merrel which feel like gloves and very barefooty. I got vivobarefoot for hiking which also feel good and some Senmotic which are looking like regular shoe so I can even wear them with a suit. For the transition it's definetely important to have barefootshoes with the minimalistic sole as possible because this will remind you to walk on you forefoot instantly.

[@alexreader]

Great point! I find wearing the barefoot shoes my feet naturally strike towards more towards the mid foot. Just because it can be painful striking on the heel in barefoot shoes.

[@alexreader]

@JuicyTomato theres a bit of a debate around that, I'm thinking more towards running in terms of it naturally being more midfoot/forefoot. For walking I probably am more heel striking but the forces don't bother me anyway walking. Definitely right about stride length! I always used to over stride 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@schubi128]

@JuicyTomato a simple no, the human body is not built to land on the heels while walking or running, only feet with regular shoes are meant to land on the heels because regular shoes make it next to impossible to land on the forefoot. Although i have no idea when and why humans decided to stomp thru the world instead of walking graceful, but more natural people for example the masai in kenya don't land on the heel, also the australian aborigines and surely a lot of other natural living people. If the body has the natural (god given or evoulutionary) posture its also not more economic to land on the heels, because landing on the forefoot uses the very strong and stout calf muscels as a shock absorber which preserves the whole body above and including the knee from impacts.

[@LiefRunsFar]

I find the extra feeling in barefoot and minimalist shoes causes your body to want to move lighter and forefoot without having to focus on it. Does cause tired feet for the first 6 months or so, but that's your feet getting stronger

[@LiefRunsFar]

@JuicyTomato walking you don't change much, but running or going up steep hills you'll notice the difference.

[@russellzauner]

*chuckles in Vibram V-Trail 2.0*

[@AlexThePagan]

I started with Vibrams 5-fingers 6 years ago and it was the best deciscion i ever made! I walk in them even at minus degrees and snow without problem. Of course, you need to adapt a bit :D But i cant wear normal shoes anymore, they just hurt after a while.

[@alexreader]

That's awesome!! How do you find that in the snow!?

[@AlexThePagan]

@@alexreader It depends. Its quite comfy in the snow but mixing it with asphalt is a bad combo. I went to the city and walked for about 2 hours today... it was totally fine. But i would not recommend hard ground when you are not used to it :D

[@HillBilly1905]

I wish I could start the journey. I walk 20,000 to 25,000 a day at work in 12 hours. I have to wear work boots rough couldn’t imagine being able to wear barefoot shoes.

[@Strutability]

I started my barefoot journey maybe 4 months ago and I changed my shoes overnight, never had any type of pain or even tiredness after switching. I did workout my feet a couple of times a week though

[@alexreader]

That's so good👌 what were your workouts like?

[@Strutability]

@@alexreader Asian squats (still can't do them perfectly), circling my feet while pointing or flexing my toes, calf raises, spreading my toes apart then pushing them together, and moving my feet around while pushing the balls of my feet into the ground

[@alexreader]

@@Strutability sounds like a solid plan 💪 always interesting to see what others do

[@Strutability]

@@alexreader Thanks 😊 it's been working well for me

[@OutsideGamer99]

What cycling shoes can you recommend which dont cramp the feet much ? Im wearing Altra shoes and at home walking a lot barefoot. My only really tight shoes at the moment are my shimano clipless shoes. Best regards, Max

[@alexreader]

Hey Max, I have bont riots which are wide fitting. Lake also do some wider shoes and some shimano models you can get in different widths! Which altras do you have at the minute?

[@OutsideGamer99]

@@alexreader Thanks fot the quick reply! I run in the Provision 7 which fit great, and i ordered the Olympus 4. Looking forward to a little bit more trail running.

[@alexreader]

@@OutsideGamer99 no worries. Hope you find a good fit! They are two models I haven't tried yet. Look good 👌

[@Littlepip2107]

you can, and should wear barefoot shoes in warm climated countries. for me who lives in siberia. idk how does it feel like to walk barefoot for that long

[@horizoon]

I started back in 2018 when I was still in school and got FiveFingers on sale 😂 last pair off shoes that I haven't replaced with barefoot ones are my knee high rubber boots because there are no barefoot options 😭

[@alexreader]

Aha that's awesome. Yeah I haven't seen many options for knee high rubber boots! What about lems or feelgrounds, do they have anything similar?

[@horizoon]

Just looked them up but unfortunately no. Closest thing are the Gracie boots from Xero Shoes but they're only ankle hight. I'll be the first person to buy a taller version if they ever decide to make them

[@alexreader]

@Octopus dam! 🤣 they will be made one day I'm sure, with more and more people wearing barefoot style shoes 🤞

[@mohammadnaseri5045]

Hey, thanks for the video. how is the Tracker Decon holding up?

[@alexreader]

Hey Mo, no worries!! Love the tracker decons, have to say maybe my favourite pair of barefoot shoes. Although would prefer the primus lites in the summer ☀️

[@Mitchy_P5]

Can you speak about fit when it comes to length? I have found myself still getting used to the difference in feel. I am usually a 12 or 13 in most shoes and have been ordering 46 (12.5). I have about a thumb width around the toe box. Normal or need to be a bit tighter?

[@alexreader]

Hey Mitch, yeah it's a hard one to get your head around because they feel so different in many ways. I go with about a thimb width right at the end to 👍 but the biggest test for me is walking around in them. If I feel everything has enough room, there's no pressure points. But also my feet aren't slipping, or sliding anywhere inside and I'm not tripping over them then thats a good fit for me. Hope that makes sense?

[@ElBoyoElectronico]

I love my barefoot shoes. I do however since then struggle with my climbing shoes…

[@alexreader]

🤣 yeah and climbing shoes are tight at the best of times!

[@ElBoyoElectronico]

@@alexreader Exactly! And now I worry about making my feet loose their splay and general health when putting on my climbing shoes. Although I only wear them 1-2 times a week for the times I am actually on the wall, so it probably is not that damaging. At least I hope so :)

[@Bjornbloodeye]

I switched barefoot because of chronic Achilles pain. It's helped but not gone. But also this is my first year in barefoot

[@alexreader]

I guess thats some good progress, hopefully that continues!:D

[@jessrelyea]

so helpful, thanks Alex.

[@alexreader]

No worries Jessica :D

[@firkinja]

Do they make barefoot shoes with arch support? I have flat feet and always have, but I would love to build my foot muscles up in a safe way. Idek if barefoot and arch support put together makes sense, but without arch support, my knees are out of line and I end up with pain up through my legs and lower back

[@alexreader]

There's none that I know of, although you could put an insole in them. The idea though is that by wearing the barefoot shoes it requires all of the small muscles in the feet to work hard. In turn strengthening things up like the arch. Does need to be done gradually though, and if your getting pain without the insoles might be tough!

[@Snoop_Dugg]

Do they make barefoot business shoes? Maybe we can make it a trend in offices. 😂

[@alexreader]

Ahah office take over! They do, check these out...tidd.ly/3VF0axA and tidd.ly/3PceyLi I really want some but i'm never in an office ha

[@Snoop_Dugg]

@@alexreader oh wow, not too shabby. I’ll have to check them out

[@phdiego10]

I’m a huge cyclist and having issues with this. What cycling shoes are you using or recommend? Thanks, Pablo

[@alexreader]

That's awesome 🚴‍♀️💪 I have bont riots, which have a nice roomy toe box. I know lake do some wide fitting ones and so do shimano to.

[@TRUEIndian413]

Thanks bro. I have partial flat foot. Can I use the barefoot shoes for jogging and in office regularly? Or can I use it with arch support soul or sleeves ? Pls reply

[@alexreader]

You certainly can! But it depends on your current strength and how much you already run etc. It's best to gradually transition to barefoot shoes. You could try using the arch supports but the idea is to get your arches stronger so they don't need them

[@TRUEIndian413]

@@alexreader thanks bro for quick reply

[@alexreader]

@@TRUEIndian413 no probs 💪

[@Lorre1311]

Thank you! at some point you show us a normal every day black boot with a white sole. Which one is that? Thank you so much for your video"s!

[@alexreader]

Hey thanks so much for the comment! Is that the one you see in the picture? Tracker decons?

[@Lorre1311]

Hey, the one’s at 5:58 in the video! 😂 they look good!

[@alexreader]

@@Lorre1311 those particular ones are feelgrounds I believe. Vivobarefoot have the Gobis which are similar. Should've put the model name on the image! They do look cool.

[@rickmelhuish1602]

What about a farm worker? What options available

[@alexreader]

I would have a look at vivobarefoots boot options depending on the weather conditions though tidd.ly/3PbCjTu

[@SwitchUpYt]

We should also change our stride to not heel strike I believe

[@alexreader]

Yeah thats a big topic of debate! Seems forefoot or midfoot striking is probably better. Overall forces can be more but peak forces and impacts are greater with heel striking. From what I've studied anyway!

[@SwitchUpYt]

@@alexreader I think you could make a really interesting video on that one!

[@alexreader]

@@SwitchUpYt il give it a go!! 🙏

[@jordancarreto3798]

Can someone share their experience wearing barefoot and walking on synthetic surfaces like pavement and concrete? I am contemplating starting my own barefoot journey but I do not want to hurt myself in the process

[@alexreader]

Hey Jordan, there's a lot of people I know now that have similar experiences including me!:) I wear mine mostly on rubber gym flooring or concrete surfaces and wouldn't go back. But it depends how strong your feet are and how you transition from traditional cushioned shoes

[@montysreef8462]

If you were going to run a marathon and you wanted to go fast, would you stick with your barefoot shoes or would you swap them out for some running shoes, and do you think this would have any kind of reversal effect and sort of undo the work the barefoot shoes have been doing day to day

[@alexreader]

I'd go for some cushioned/responsive running shoes if I was trying to get my fastest possible time. No I don't think it would undo the barefoot shoes benefits, especially if you're in barefoot shoes most of the time

[@Nerzyster]

Hi Alex, I'm a cyclist and wandering did you find some acceptable cycling shoes?

[@alexreader]

Woo do you have barefoot shoes too? Yeah there's a few brands, lake, bont and shimano do wide fitting to. I have the bont riots and they are great!

[@richardjackson7624]

I am 74 years old, I do a lot of mountain rocky path hiking, maybe 10 miles per month. I switched totally to the maximum barefoot shoe, vff shoes. Yes, I had transition problems that lasted sometimes for months, yes, I had very painful tendonitis, but after 5 and 1/2 years I thought all my transition problems were over. Well I am now coming back to wearing barefoot shoes and i hope soon switching back again to vff full-time. Yes, i ended up with about 2 months of ankle tendonitis. So switching to really good barefoot shoes like vff can be a painful experience, but in the long run I think it was worth it. I can now use my big toe abductor muscles in both big toes and I could do that for decades. I have plantar facitiis on three seperate occasions. It did not come back. Yes, I suffered, but it was worth it.

[@alexreader]

That's really interesting, glad to hear even with some issues it's been worth it overall! I've actually never tried the vff

[@umbrellacorpmarketingdept7154]

I’ve been wearing five fingers almost every day for the last 14 years and they are the best.

[@alexreader]

14 years!! That's awesome, must have been around when they vibram first started making them 👌💪

[@arcasoy]

Any suggestions on cycling shoes that work with your feet now? Also finding my now wider feet are struggling in cycling shoes.

[@alexreader]

I personally have bont riots, but lake and shimano also do some wider fitting ones 👍

[@dennisthorson4159]

I'm a rather heavy guy, and I've been running for about 2,5 years consistently now. Trail, mostly, a bit of pavement. I can run almost every day, or other day, 2-3 miles, but I have been having a light case of shin splints lately + what feels like plantar fascitis for this entire periode of time. In fact, the feet are the worst - it sets in often around 0,5 mile in, and I'm forced to run/walk the rest. It quickly subsides though and is'nt serious, I can't feel it in the morning when I get out of bed, e.g. Just a massive nuisance while running. After over 2 years; I would've thought my feet got stronger - but.. No! No positive adatations for all this work. Can these super flat shoes do me anything good? I'm kind of beginning to think I'm just genetically not cut out for adapting to running at all.

[@alexreader]

Ah man shin splints are such a pain! Do you spend much time on your feet outside of the running? They might help strengthen your feet if you can were them day to day, then run in some cushioned running shoes.

[@dennisthorson4159]

@@alexreader thanks, I'll definately get some,

[@bilaltahir9978]

What are your thoughts on the vivobarefoot trail sg rather than the fg?

[@alexreader]

That's one of the only models I haven't tried aha. They make sense though if you're going to be using them in mostly wet mud/grass+

[@johnny872]

How does the sizing of Vivo goes compared to other brands? Based on the size chart (and cm values), I think they might be running shorter than other traditional brands?

[@slavasss2189]

Yes, they short for me...i prefer merrell barefoot line

[@bretteumont657]

I would like to try them but work in construction and have to wear work boots all week

[@alexreader]

Steel toe cap ones? I wonder if the vivo boots might work if you don't need toe caps

[@bojanmilito2380]

does anybody had problems at the beginning? after running my calf hurts and one time I felt pain in my knee.

[@alexreader]

Not everyone but it's pretty common. It depends on your starting point and how much you jump straight in. It can be pretty tough on the joints and muscle to begin with but by doing it gradually, everything can become stronger and tolerate much more 💪

[@davidkyle1102]

With a toddler, I felt that lego treadmill clip.

[@alexreader]

🤣 yes!! Me too, for something so small it causes so much pain ha

[@macanx10]

what bike shoes do you use? I currently use base model from Specialized, but they still feel a bit too narrow.

[@alexreader]

Yeah my "normal" Road shoes got to narrow so I've not got the bont riots which are a wide fitting. Lake and shimano also do some wider fitting models 👌 do you wear barefoot shoes?

[@gringo6362]

Bought vivo month ago. Its really hard walking on a concrete for a long time

[@LiefRunsFar]

I want Vivobarefoot. As you say they are the standard. But I found Tadeevo shoes and love them for everything but running. For running I wear Luna Sandals, designed and made by Barefoot Ted from Born to Run. They are minimalist, not barefoot. Really surprising how warm my feet stay while running, in Lunas, and love that I don't end with sweaty socks, even when I'm on rare occasion running with socks. Great video. I use the cast analogy too. But people argue that you can't base your evidence for minimalist / barefoot footwear on just one book. Then I quote the injury rate. And I've heard from others that if you want strong feet muscles you have to let them do the work as you also said. kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4rKoXeHZ9hgmq8

[@alexreader]

Thanks for your comments Lief!:D il have to check out tadeevo 💪

[@kairoz9810]

do you ski/snowboard at all? if so, how does that affect your feet?

[@alexreader]

I've skied a few times but I'm not good enough for the boots to matter to much. I tend to go slightly bigger on the size and that's it. But I could see this being a problem, although getting molded ski boots might solve that

[@slavasss2189]

Zero drop shoes ok for running..but for walking i beleive u need drop, as you land on heel anyways

[@alexreader]

There's less impact though when walking :D

[@dfosborne2]

Xero shoes for me. They have made my life so much better.

[@alexreader]

Another vote for the xeros 👌

[@braria9855]

If there's a third loud OW! in this quiet video I'm turning it off.

[@mmaciek163]

For a cycling please try lake shoes😊

[@alexreader]

Yeah I've heard good things about Lake. Love my bont riot wide shoes though!

[@jirensays6994]

Can I wear these shoes if I have a royal toe? They are seemed to he design with second finger being smaller

[@alexreader]

I would think so, depends how pronounced it is I guess. What shoes do you normally wear?

[@seanmelvin5115]

Hello, great and true info. Need help, anyone know of a zero drop shoe that is steel or composite toed that has a very large toe box? Thanks for the help

[@alexreader]

Thanks Sean! You're not the only one on the look out for something like that. Unfortunately I don't know of anything but If I do find some il let you know. Definitely a market for it!

[@seanmelvin5115]

@@alexreader thank you

[@Michael-vm8kj]

@@seanmelvin5115 the only steel toe boot I’m aware of right now that’s got zero heel drop and a wide toe box is the Birkenstock QS700

[@seanmelvin5115]

@@Michael-vm8kj thanks so much

[@Michael-vm8kj]

@@seanmelvin5115 you’re welcome man. quick update, I’ve actually received them and have had them for a few weeks now, I’m loving everything about them except for the molded cork insole. I simply swapped the insole from my xero prio into the boots and they fit inside great!

[@PmatWolf]

Hi i am bone on bone left ankle with arthritis. Its not chronic but its there, sadly this is from 24 years in the military running around with 40+lb on my back and having numerous ankle inversions and not resting, also wearing boots, modern sports shoes etc, etc will going Barefoot shoes help my ankle etc? as i would like to stay active (MTBing) and weights etc

[@alexreader]

Hey Philip, that's sounds pretty hardcore. Sorry to hear about the arthritis, gets everyone to varying degrees at some point! It's difficult to say for certain but I would imagine it's worth trying. The thing with arthritis is there's no cure right so all we can do is manage it. The best way to do that is strengthen all the muscles and soft tissues around the joint so they support it nicely and take some pressure off. Barefoot shoes will help with this but to start off with it might get pretty sore. If it's something your going to try I would do it gradually and add in some strengthen exercises as well 💪 awesome that you do weight and MTB as well 🥳 hope that helps. I should say I'm a PT, S&C coach, sports scientist but do these things at your own risk 🤣

[@PmatWolf]

@@alexreader many thanks mate i did the Cert HE in sports science at Crew & Alsager faculty at Manchester Uni, then went down the Exercise therapist route myself but lost touch as it didnt pay off so i work in th middle east now. Def interested in the barefoot shoes and rounding though

[@alexreader]

@@PmatWolf Ah that's awesome, nicer weather in the middle east? Yeah I definitely think its worth a try! I absolutely love wearing barefoot shoes all the time now

[@PmatWolf]

@@alexreader thanks buddy ill give them a go for a good while

[@NivuagYdna]

I think the Vibrams look more like feet and more natural. Socks on the other hand look silly. They don’t keep you dry or warm, so why bother?

[@alexreader]

Most of the time I wear socks with them. Keep my feet warm, plus they're easier to wash and helps keep my shoes fresh. Bit like underwear 🤣

[@craigwin3685]

With moderate flat feet, I have been using an insole for years. Without it I typically get lower back and knee pain. Your opinion?

[@alexreader]

Is it a custom insole? Do you put it in all your shoes? Personally I would try and go without and try to strengthen the feet, knees and back then see what happens. But the professional opinion would probably be to stick with the insole since it's saving you from pain!:)

[@Danrsr7]

Hi Craig, coming from a broken ankle which affected the strength of one of my foot and calf, I can say that I went to fast without much transition and paid the price for it (was walking around 8,000 steps daily). I now have a tibial tendonitis. So instead of being on step one, I'm on step minus two. I'm now doing strengthening exercises to reinforce my feet, my foot arches and calves and placed the transition on hold, until my foot and arch are ready for it. You should look for exercises online, especially since you had artificial support with your insole. Pretty sure your feet are not ready for this. And when you start doing the transition, go very gradually, it might save you the issues I'm having now. It is worth it, just take your time. Cheers!

[@alexreader]

@@Danrsr7 great input! Were you walking 8000 steps per day before you went barefoot or when you got the new barefoot shoes? Hope rehab is going well!

[@Danrsr7]

@@alexreader 8000 before with regular shoes and 8000 with the Xeroes after. But it allowed me to comprehend how feet strength is important. Getting better now, thanks.

[@fransera]

I am flat footed and never got used to orthotics and motion control shoes. The design cut my arch and cause me pain when even standing. I found comfort with certain models of Nike Free more than a decade back that offer me support without hurting my arch. What it didn't help was the overpronation. In the last few months, I have ventured into barefoot shoes and have progressed to barefoot running with forefoot landing. It is great. What I didn't realize is that traditional shoes bunched my toes and made my flat foot worse. Even with arch support, the support only pushes your medial arch up when the shoes make your feet collapse inwards (overpronate). Now with barefoot shoes with sufficient toe room (I wear toe spacers as well) and a forefoot stride, I can stabilise myself better and don't overpronate as much. The key is the toe splay and a firm surface to land on. But please train your foot, ankle, achilles, calves. There are many videos online for this. Calf raises (with an extra sideward movement) is a staple for me. And I will remind myself to stand without letting my arches fall which in turns twist my knee inwards. Most of the times, the arches will feel tight when I do that. I am hopeful that one day it will be 2nd nature without the tightness Sharing my 2 cents worth, hopes it helps

[@mingma10]

Can I wear barefoot shoes while using sports shoes and football boots when I am doing sports?

[@alexreader]

Do you mean using barefoot shoes as football boots?

[@mingma10]

I mean using it while also using football boots. So when I am walking or at school I wear barefoot shoes but when I am doing sports I where my sports shoes.

[@alexreader]

@Mingma Dorje Lama yeah that works! 💪 eventually you might find that your sports shoes/football boots get to tight for you though

[@grentreem3096]

Revivo exists for cheaper vivo shoes btw

[@seanmelvin5115]

Would someone with experience chime in. Who has the wider toe box vivo or zero shoes? Thank much.

[@alexreader]

I don't have Xeros so hopefully someone has a better answer but I think it's xeros.