What are the best shoes that promote foot health? | Peter Attia and Courtney Conley

[@heatherc1783]

I’m older, I’ve healed nerve issues using zero drop & wide toe box. I’ve tried Lems (Love them best), and a few others that are good. I don’t dress in athletic wear and struggle to find shoes that don’t have weird colours etc. I wish I could find these shoes that suit my taste in clothing style better😂. . I’m a dog walking granny, not an athlete. Not many stores stock these types of shoes & it’s so frustrating( I know, online etc but. I’d like to try more in person). Please keep spreading the word (& the toes)!

[@mariac4602]

I absolutely agree with you! I want 'normal' looking shoes that I can wear with casual and semi-dressy pants that are NOT athletic wear. Not sure why it's so hard to find something like that.

[@MarmaladeINFP]

Softstar offers handmade shoes. They allow you to choose the colors and material of the different parts of the shoe.

[@hoshikun6605]

Have you seen Peluva?

[@OWEN-Bois]

The new Altra Escalante 4 come in all black including the midsole. Wide toe box zero drop and minimal cushioning.

[@Case_12]

Carets is a barefoot minimalist dress shoe company. They have dress shoe prices too

[@TFlip04]

Few things I hate more than a host that says. We will put the list on the show notes below and then they don’t.

[@Pastamistic]

I'll help out with my top 4. -Lems (my personal favorite) -Xero -Vivo Barefoot (a little too narrow for me) -Altra (wide and zero drop but lots of cushion if you need it) Work into zero drop shoes slowly. Some people adjust really quick but others have a hard time. Your tendons, muscles and posture take time to adjust and it affects you from foot to head. Widening your toe splay back out might also require some extra help with spacers like correct toes. Especially with a thin minimalist shoe you can't walk heavy on your heels; it needs to be more of a forefoot strike which is actually really hard to walk with at first. With practice you can find a good balance but you need to get your ankle more involved with walking compared to high cushioned shoes with a heel stack height. With the mid to high cushioned zero drop shoes from Altra and Lems you can heel strike like you would a more typical shoe. Especially with the minimalist shoes jumping into them too quickly can cause foot injuries. Using high support and high cushioned shoes like most of us have for years has made your feet weak and prone to injury. Weak body parts are always prone to being injured easily until you build the necessary strength and adaptations. So take it slow and build that strength over time. I started this a decade ago to fix plantar fasciitis. I was getting more supportive insoles and supportive shoes but noticed it only made my issues worse until I bumped up the support again. I started foot strengthening exercises, switched to Altra shoes when they were more minimalist, and wore correct toes. It took a few years but my plantar fasciitis is gone and hasn't been back since. Honestly the correct toes probably made the single biggest difference but you still need the really wide toebox to wear them inside a shoe. So a wide toebox and correct toes go hand in hand.

[@katyasouvorov6775]

Thank you very much for an excellent explanation 😊

[@gripanimal]

I am a subscriber to Dr Peter Attia's website. This short video clip is taken from an interview on his website that's over 2 hours long. The show notes mentioned are a part of the website's layout, and unfortunately not found on youtube. The shoes she mentions in the show notes are Altra, Vivobarefoot, and Xero. I personally have Vibram Five Fingers, and wear them almost everywhere when the ground is warm enough.

[@Pastamistic]

@@gripanimal I forgot about the Five Fingers! I haven't worn them but they pretty much have the correct toes spacers I was wearing as a built in feature of the shoe.

[@elingrome5853]

Few things I hate more than. Bad grammar.

[@brandonperez2267]

I’ve never heard of this lady and I’m not a regular consumer of Dr. Attia’s content, but this is spot on. 18 months ago I started really paying attention to my feet. I started wearing barefoot shoes, I intentionally walk around barefoot most days, I do a lot of calf and foot training now, etc. I can honestly say that the investment has significantly increased my quality of life.

[@mikeb1039]

+1 - I was skeptical but in constant foot pain so I tried them and within days my feet were hurting less and getting stronger. You put your feet down with care and feedback from them. And you feel your feet regaining strength and flaxibility. My Plantar Faciitis (sp) (or tibular tedonitis) was gone in a week or two. Been nothing short of miraculous for me. Now if we go on a walk with my old "high heel drop" shoes my feet are hurting within a mile. Limping hard by the end of mile 2. Take them off and go barefoot or put Xero's on and no pain in 15 minutes or so. it's crazy but it works. (not saying for running or other movement sports).

[@annettesmith576]

​@mik 3:43 eb1039

[@chochooshoe]

"I intentionally walk around barefoot most days," you meant you walked around in barefoot shoes? not actually barefoot, right? I would hate to walk around barefoot because the ground is so incredibly dirty!!! but I'm ok with barefoot shoes

[@felipegenedelacruz8431]

Thank you so much for this! I work as a bartender and chef. I started wearing Hoka professionals and yes they do give me a lot of cushioning through the long hours but I started noticing discomfort on the ankles

[@allbaugh04]

Which model? The clifton 9 provides more structure, but still plush

[@njsfer]

@@allbaugh04 But it still prevents you from strengthening your feet. I started having calves and achilles issues when I bought my first pair of highly cushioned shoes (Puma Magnify Nitro 2) and I stopped running with them and I am also having problems with the Adidas SL. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 2 also give me ankle problems. Before this highly cushioned shoe trend I ran more than now and I had zero problems. It is interesting that when I play futsal (indoor soccer), my shoes are as flat and as hard as possible and I have no pain or tension in my calves or achilles tendons.

[@paraworth]

I bought a pair of hokas to help with cushioning after an accident where I shattered the talas. After a week I was in incredible pain. Switched back to my vibram five fingers and never looked back. 18 months later I’m back running better than I ever have. You have to feel your body through your feet and toes.

[@TomUK7]

I think you'd be much better off with a properly made pair of work boots which tie at the ankle and have a shank through the sole. Maybe with a wedge sole? Or else a propley made pair of leather shoes from a brand such as Church's.

[@jamesdonaldson7396]

I gradually adopted zero drop heel shoes and it's worked out great for me. My wife tried going full-bore with them immediately and ended up with foot pain. Especially if you're older and you've lived a long time with cushioned-heel shoes and narrow-toe boxes, make sure to gradually wean yourself off of them. Your foot needs time to build up the strength it needs to adapt.

[@tylercunningham4311]

Yep, I just got my first zero heel wide toe box shoe. Starting out just lifting weights and walking on the treadmill on it. We will see how it goes, but it feels good.

[@mikeb1039]

not just that but re-learning your stride and how your foot contacts the ground in a significantly different way. My first day we walked a paved trail we didn't know and ended up 3.5 miles. My feet were totally beat up and hurting but it was because I hadn't altered my stride at all and still banging my heel down. duh. Almost swore off them right away, glad I didn't. now I'm slowly replacing most of the shoes in my closet.

[@bneum]

YES! I love what he said at the end, I realized this a long time ago when looking at beds and shoes and realizing that all that comfort is not actually doing much or any good for us, and it's the same emotionally and mentally, if our environment is too cushy, we don't have any resistance and we can't grow as well.

[@Hello11World]

I side with your theory, besides the comfy bed part, but I see the overall picture in relation to the video w/o even watching it yet. One must challenge themselves , and a failure is just another attempt, could quote Yoda here but you prob all get my drift.

[@MarmaladeINFP]

@@Hello11World - Even many hunter-gatherers sleep in comfy hammocks. It's not like before the invention of the modern bed all traditional people were sleeping straight on dirt and wooden floors.

[@Hello11World]

@@MarmaladeINFP interesting point, what did the Greeks and Romans use I wonder? Socio economic status range??

[@diavergediabetes]

I'm so happy that you're talking about this. I transitioned slowly to minimalist shoes and then to barefoot shoes - switching exclusively wide-toebox barefoot shoes two years ago. My feet have never been happier and I see this as an investment in my long-term balance and health. My favorite brands are Origo (USA) and Groundies (Europe).

[@1ducatinut]

I discovered Altra shoes 4 or 5 years ago when I took up trail running, Lone Peaks ended up being the best shoe for not only trail running but long distance hikes as well. I also have a few pairs of their Torin shoes for everyday use.

[@questionauthority-f6i]

I've used the Torin's, Escalante, and Superiors (trail running). Loved every single pair. Still wear them exclusively.

[@biolbd]

I have the Lone Peaks as well and love them!

[@monicadechering9489]

I used to love Altra also, but the last 2 pairs I have boight are not as wide as before. I can no longer wear my toe spacers with them.

[@seanmclaughlin7415]

Nothing Altra has made has topped their first shoe in function or quality and that is the Instinct.

[@RocksOff72]

I've been an Altra wearer since the Lone Peak 1.0 and the Instinct 1.0. Remember when the early Altra's had the foot outline on the soles of their shoes? My favorite two shoes that I still wear to this day, if I can find them, is the Duo 1.5 and the Lone Peak 4's. That said, any Lone Peak is comfortable. I've worn the Torin, Olympus, and now the Timp models and they all work for me as well. The only Altra does that didn't work for me are the Superior , which is too low profile over the top of my foot, and that one model that has pronation countering properties. I found Altra after I had suffered a hairline fracture of my second metatarsal after running in Asics that had a 30mm drop. Ridiculous! Even though Altra were bought out by a Chinese company they are still great shoes that have provided me more than a decade of pain free everyday use.

[@JetskiDex]

What she said about the shoes causing hamstring injury is very very true!! It’s very common with those particular Nike shoes.

[@petedog9581]

I have been on minimalist, zero drop heel trail shoes with a wide toe box for 2 years now. They taught me to walk correctly after 52 years of improper technique. No more heel striking and I drive through the motion rather than pull myself with quads and hip flexors.

[@TInyK12]

Glad you found a gait that works for you. I'm more comfortable midfoot or heel striking when walking. Been going barefoot for about 4 years now. However, the biggest difference I noticed was when I corrected my anterior pelvic tilt.

[@sethbaughman203]

May I ask how you corrected your pelvic tilt?

[@petedog9581]

@@sethbaughman203 Zero drop shoes don't allow overstriding, which can lead to pelvic alignment problems. When you stride properly, your head, shoulder, hips and feet are all alignment. Stronger feet and ankles are also developed with regular use of these shoes. It takes load off the knees and hips

[@TInyK12]

@@sethbaughman203 KZbin the most popular clips. But the single most important was being hyper aware of my pelvis position all day and correcting it.

[@yumounana]

Pete, would love to know what shoes/brand you use, if you're willing to share!

[@TheAndyshan]

At 60 I'm fixing the problems made by a life in conventional shoes and at a desk. Thanks for providing such fantastic resources to understand how to move forward (literally) . Focused exercise has already made a huge difference and I'm now moving to barefoot shoes and feeling the benefits. We've known for a long time that 90% of the food in supermarkets is bad for us and most of the furniture we use is as well . Now it turns out that most footwear in shoe shops is disastrous. What is it about our (Western) society that drives us to institutionalised self harm? Beats me.

[@acustomer7216]

Fashion 'trends', home decor 'trends', keeping up with the Joneses,

[@atmavictu2995]

What exercise do you do?

[@victoriaman117]

One word...Profit

[@TheAndyshan]

@@atmavictu2995 I do quite a bit of pilates which has general benefits. For feet, heel raises with straight and bent leg, stretches for dorsiflexion and toe extension, toe yoga, big toe movements with bands, massage with massage ball, toe massage with fingers interlaced into toes, wearing toe spacers and barefoot walking. Basically whatever feels like it's working and making my feet more functional. CC on the video has a channel "Gait Happens" which is a great resource.

[@elingrome5853]

yeah, the rest of the world is a health nirvana

[@terrycrow2066]

Thank you Dr Attia for having Dr Conley talk to us about this topic! It is so important. Particularly good stuff about "performance shoes".

[@matijatatomirovic3351]

So what happened to the list of the shoes?

[@stevensantora2976]

Exactly.

[@hippie_4762]

Altra and Topo are the two who make running shoes that have some cushioning (Which I think is most accessible for beginners, especially if you're going to be running on a lot of roads, running in complete barefoot shoes is something you have to condition yourself up to) and zero drop with wide toeboxes (Toe box does vary model to model, you've got to check)

[@loganpirie4387]

Should be in the show notes from Peter’s site.

[@killjoyredux8361]

​@loganpirie4387 shoe notes😂

[@zakazan8561]

none in the show notes, it only goes to her website, gait happens, where you have to spend money in order to find out.

[@BeNLaGRAiNE09]

I've been wearing barefoot shoes (Vivo, Xero, etc.) for the past 4-5 years and I'm never going back. Regular shoes are absolute garbage

[@balukas8255]

How about sports?

[@keim3548]

Shoes are just the tip of the iceberg for the decisions the establishment has made for our health, to our detriment

[@bobwojcik6196]

@@balukas8255listen to the complete podcast

[@quatummind]

Totally agree. Switched to Vivo and Xero and eliminated all of my knee pain. I run two miles each day with a 40 weighted vest with NO PROBLEMS (other than its hard as hell). I’m 6’2 and played HS and college basketball. My knees have never felt better

[@BeNLaGRAiNE09]

@@balukas8255 I play ball hockey, softball, sprint with them and don't have any issues. You get used to it

[@motofiction4233]

Great guest, great talk! In fact, as a long-time follower, I believe topics like this are where Peter Attia shines best.

[@LightTribe88]

12:00 I have had collapsed arches, duck walk, and posture issues my entire life. Recently switched to Xero shoes and have been fixing issues. My newly found connection to the earth has made a huge impact on my psyche. It's hard to fully describe how the sense of being stable and solid in my step improves my overall sense of safety and well-being.

[@TheJustina102085]

Listening to this channel I’ve realized it’s a full time job trying to stay healthy in the modern corporatized world… haha

[@swingset1969]

And, expensive, and ultimately unrealistic. At a certain point you just have to live your life and accept you're gonna die someday. Do what you can do with the time you have, we can't all spend all day stretching in $190 shoes.

[@T.ASHTON]

This is the exact mindset that modern America misses. Staying healthy is a full time job. Staying healthy requires your full attention bc unfortunately, the modern world is a dopamine minefield of destructive habit forming stimuli, in our food, our culture, and our technology

[@shawnbruce6934]

@@swingset1969 It's Ridiculous to charge $190 for shoes.

[@jasonhutchins9239]

No just live simply

[@matriaxpunk]

This. That’s why we need politics, so we can change society and make it a better place for our health, among many other things. Individual changes can only take you so far.

[@miroeight]

I used to wear nothing but Xero for the last 4 years for both every day use and running. Since the beginning of this year, I started running in Altra Escalante because I had frequent foot issues and got tired of having to rest at least a couple of days after a 10k run, just for my feet to heal. I am very happy with the current equipment

[@nickwilliams3146]

This is right on the money! Great podcast right here! Personally a huge fan of Xero Shoes. They completely changed my life. I now own 9 pairs. Wide toe box, zero drop, and always ready to rock!👊

[@jfitness432]

I prefer the Xero over vivos, the toe box felt more roomy to me

[@chefnigeltv8580]

Please please PLEASE interview Steven Sashen. He is the founder of Xero Shoes. His insights about feet and barefoot minimalist shoes are incredible. Mighty interesting man.

[@stevenqirkle]

She convinced me to try out a pair of Xero shoes

[@nickwilliams3146]

@@jfitness432I completely agree! They were designed so well!

[@nickwilliams3146]

@@chefnigeltv8580I couldn’t agree with you more! That man is a genius!

[@kevink5866]

Been wearing minimalist shoes for years, but basketball is my favorite sport, and could never find a basketball shoe that incorporated minimalist principles, always felt restricted and in danger of ankle rolls. FINALLY someone made a minimalist-inspired court shoe - Uncivilized is the brand. Made by Ben Patrick, the knees over toes guy. If you love minimalist shoes and play basketball or tennis, or need more cushion for cross-training, check them out, they’re really great. Not the best-looking, but they’re the basketball shoe I’ve been longing for. I have no affiliation with them, just a PSA for hoopers who like barefoot shoes 🙂

[@samcasto9104]

Yes! I use them for volleyball, same story

[@williamchanningreis]

Ben Patrick has one look him up

[@williamchanningreis]

Oh I didn’t read lol

[@bball3048mmfr]

I too have a pair of the Uncivilized Sneaker (the 2.0 model in white) but also the Xero Shoes 2 models are also good for basketball. They are the 360 and the Kelso.

[@skiplauderbaugh5058]

I wish you would have asked Courtney about the dynamics of cycling shoes - what is going on with the foot/shoe through the entire pedal stroke, and in depth discussion about finding the correct shoes for cycling…

[@dant.6364]

there is no such thing as foot shaped cycling shoes, I’ve been searching for years.

[@lawrencerisley7231]

@@dant.6364 Yes, there are. I have a pair of D2's. Very expensive, but worth every penny. I smashed my feet into hockey skates back in the 70's 80's too. Then smashed them into cycling shoes. Hurt like hell in the winter. Nevermore. Customs with a proper last, baseplate and uppers that provide VERY light pressure EVERYWHERE is un freaking believable in cycling shoes. Just as important as a good saddle, for me.

[@stevevaughn8746]

Oops, look in athletic shoes first.

[@AnnetteLG]

When I bought my road bike in 2015 I did not get clippless until a year or so later because of that reason. I found a pair of Shimano laces that allow me to adjust as much as necessary.

[@dangfpv2970]

Lake cycling shoes

[@jimleadbetterdrums]

The wife and I have been using barefoot shoes since 2017. Never going back. My favorite casual shoes are Icarus footwear. We also use Xero, and have used vivo in the past. I’m a professional drummer and love being able to feel my pedals better with barefoot shoes. Natural before pharma always. 🤘🏻🥁🤘🏻

[@karlkrassnitzer6819]

I began runnig with the age of 60 and got knee pain. Then I change to xero shoe very careful . At the beginning only short distances to adapt. Knee pain is gone. But I change between barefoot shoes and Altra with more cushion for longer distances and sometimes wear only minimal water shoes during running. I can recommend that. Run marathons every year.

[@Danny2k38]

Wow good for you! Inspiring

[@limeezabit7280]

My favorite runs are in Vibram Fivefingers shoes on natural surfaces, usually grass. I remember at the start getting the worst DOMS ever in my feet muscles that I never thought I had, it was fascinating. That was years ago. I don't wear my Vibrams everyday but I make an effort to give my feet regular work-outs in them, they're so well made, they will outlast any running shoe out there 10x over.

[@gripanimal]

I've had Vibrams FF for years! The hemp version is what I have now, and wouldn't trade them for anything! They are SO comfortable!

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

Vibrams...the company that got sued, for millions, in a class action lawsuit, due to them making false claims about their products.

[@gripanimal]

10 years ago. $3.75 million. Sketches got sued for $40 million, similar reason. Lots of companies deal with class action lawsuits. Settled. Done. Buy or don't buy. I love my fivefingers above all footwear I've ever worn.

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

@@gripanimal Yep, Sketchers got sued as well due to false advertising of their Sketcher "Shape Ups". Same like Vibrams - false advertising for making unsubstantiated claims of the health benefits of using their product. And unsuspecting people swallowed-up both Sketchers' and Vibrams' false claims hook, line, sinker, and fishing rod. Thank goodness that the government took action!

[@jamesj9744]

I've owned multiple Xero shoes because it's so difficult to find minimalist shoes. I had one good pair of Merrill ones that were discontinued. The Xero shoes were all terrible until I bought my last pair--which are some legit trail running shoes with nice grip called Scramblers. The best way is to go barefoot. I can do it a few miles at a time on grass and concrete, but I'm not hiking up rocky trails without shoes.

[@ElijsDima]

Switching to shoe brands with proper wide toeboxes has been massive for me. Thankfully the options are more and more nowadays.

[@Evergreenandmyrtle]

For the last 10-15 years, I’ve developed all kinds of ankle and foot pain to where it hurts to walk & I had to walk slowly, when I used to walk normal and fast. THEN, I discovered barefoot shoes (e.g., Xero shoes). The first day I put them on and went for a walk, my body wanted to sprint-walk, so I did. My life has been returned to me. It’s been two months, and I’m flying by now. No more pain. But when I put on normal shoes, the pain instantly comes back. So I rip ‘em off my feet and say, “Sorry people, foot health is better than beautiful shoes.” However, I do hope the barefoot-shoe industry will learn to make them pretty. 🥰

[@yosiposi]

Do you know the Barefoot Universe website? There's plenty of different brands and styles, not all barefoot shoes look "clownish" nowadays, although they're still quite pricey, at least in Spain.

[@mikeb1039]

I've had to get comfortable throwing away almost brand new "old school" shoes.

[@user-sg8kq7ii3y]

"barefoot shoes"....talk about an oxymoron.🤣 You're either barefoot or you're wearing shoes. There is NO SUCH THING as "barefoot shoes". 🤣

[@mikeb1039]

@@user-sg8kq7ii3y There is if you pay attention. ;)

[@marrs1013]

I love to wear Vibram 5 finger shoes in the summer. People freaking out about it a lot, but I really enjoy it. You certainly 'watch your step', as every crack and stone you step on it will be felt. Even the temperature of the surface comes back as information.

[@gripanimal]

I love my Five Fingers in hemp! Even bought toe socks so I could wear them in a little bit colder weather.

[@Eysc]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 *👶 Kids' Footwear Essentials* - Emphasizing allowing kids' feet to experience different surfaces. - Importance of a wide toe box for natural toe splay. - Differentiating between a wide toe box and a wide shoe for kids' footwear. 01:34 *👟 Characteristics of Functional Footwear* - Importance of zero-drop shoes for maintaining natural foot position. - Clarifying the difference between a zero-drop shoe and conventional footwear. - Recommendations for brands and models of functional footwear with wide toe boxes. 04:19 *🏃‍♂️ Considerations for Performance Shoes* - Discussion on performance-enhancing shoes like the Nike Alphafly. - Cautioning about potential drawbacks and injury risks of using performance shoes. - Emphasizing the need for foundational foot strength before transitioning to performance footwear. 07:00 *🩺 Footwear for Injury Prevention* - Importance of gradually adapting to shoes with different heel-to-toe drops. - Considering individual factors like weight, foot strength, and history of injuries. - Highlighting the role of proper footwear in enhancing foot proprioception and reducing injury risks. Made with ChatGPT

[@SydneyBristow0788]

Thanks.

[@MichaelSheaAudio]

It's amazing how much our feet can do when we let them do what they're supposed to. Up until last August, I thought my feet were flat and I overpronated and I thought I was destined to rely on orthotics for the rest of my life. Then learning about barefoot shoes and the things I was doing wrong, I learned that I actually have low arches and overpronation is just a bad habit that can be changed. I haven't worn supportive shoes since then. I slowly worked on changing things, let my body tell me when I needed rest, and now I'm doing pretty well. I even worked a 13 hour shift at a furniture store in some Lems shoes without the insole. My feet were sore, but foot soreness is whatever, it's nothing compared to joint pain from bad form. I could still run around no problem with sore feet. I used to come home from work some days and my ankles would hurt so much that I could barely walk. Seriously, do yourself a favour and get educated on foot health and get into some barefoot shoes. It changes more than just your feet, it works it's way up your body and corrects issues caused by comfortable shoes. But I actually think barefoot shoes are comfortable, I could wear them all day, because they're not doing anything to alter what my feet need to do. The ground is what's uncomfortable. Since you can't feel the ground in regular shoes, the pain you experience in them is caused by the shoes.

[@MStar10]

Well written, thank you for sharing. I have the same wide, flat, overpronated feet....I'll look into barefoot shoes...Any suggestions on which model to start with?

[@MichaelSheaAudio]

@@MStar10 Thanks, and there are so many options to choose from that cover different styles, it depends on what you prefer in a shoe. It also depends where you're located as some shoes will be cheaper in different parts of the world. I could name tons of brands, Vivo Barefoot and Xero are the top dogs, but there are other brands like Splay, Lems, Be Lenka, and many more. You can't really go wrong, they're all good. Some people feel that the toebox on Xero shoes and some Vivo shoes aren't wide enough, but I haven't had any issues with the shoes I have from them. Be Lenka and Splay are on the wider side. Splay shoes can also be had fairly cheap as they sell factory rejects on eBay for a discounted price. On the shoes I got from them, the gum sole just had a couple imperfections, but the shoes were otherwise perfect. Be sure to get as much information as you can on the process and how to correct your gait. It's gonna take a lot of time and work, but it is possible. There are tons of videos of people describing their experience transitioning. For me, the issue was that when I stood still, my feet naturally pointed outwards and in both standing and walking, I was placing my weight on the inside of my feet, causing the overpronation. I had to teach myself how to straighten my ankles and put my weight on the outside of my feet. The KZbin channel Grown and Healthy is run by a personal trainer with flat feet and he goes over this kind of thing in numerous videos. Squat University teaches proper foot and leg form and exercises, the information is out there, and the information is more important than the shoes themselves. Good luck!

[@MStar10]

@@MichaelSheaAudio Wow, thank you for the insight and taking the time to provide such a copious response. I have heard of Squat Uni but not the other PT - I will definitely look into it and the other pieces of info. Thanks from Toronto, Canada. P.S. It is soo expensive to get Xero shoes up here and the shipping and border fees are just ridiculous! :s

[@MichaelSheaAudio]

@@user-sg8kq7ii3y Some people can handle it, I can't. My feet are very weak. I can barely balance long enough on my left foot to pull my right shoe on. All thanks to comfortable shoes and bad form. I don't even think I can call them comfortable shoes since they mess up the posture and squish the toes. Barefoot shoes just let my feet be feet, I could literally wear them 24/7 because my feet would feel the same with or without them. Different people got different preferences, I've tried to lure my friend in but he won't budge. It only gets better so you've only got more to gain by giving them a go. 😋

[@tckexpat]

Where is the list? Update: Go to episode 296, and the list is a link to the show notes. The list is in the show notes.

[@AS333uno]

I Converted to barefoot footwear about 10 months ago . I do a lot of daily walking especially since I stopped driving 2 years ago , and so my footwear became more important to me late in my years , aged 53 peri as a menopausal women , and I wish I had discovered them years ago . My choice of footwear is Merrell Glove running shoe ,of which I discovered I have been wearing a half size too small all these years . I feel they have increased my foot and ankle strength, and I particularly love how they make my walking a more mindful experience due to being able to feel the ground so much more .

[@nimblegoat]

In my country - the big brands are super expensive, Brought the Vapor glove 6 , absolutely love them, use them for everything. Still walk barefoot where I can , taking dogs to park next door to my house etc. They are wearing well, but I have no pronation etc. Brought a 2nd pair of Amazon just in case can't get them for good price anymore. "Normal" shoes now feel really weird. Obviously if i went trekking in high mountains would still use my boots, and they would be cold in the snow etc

[@glennsak]

I've tried many brands and they all fit and feel different. Vivobarefoot: Expensive with low volume fit Tolos: Good looking, snug fit Xero: Narrowest with average styling Feelgrounds: Nice looking casual shoes, Saguaro: Budget friendly, wide toe box, good looking. Wildling: Unconventional, expensive Topa Athletics: Great running shoes with a wide toe box. For the best shoe reviews: Anyas Reviews

[@unclebob8419]

About 8 years ago I switched all of my footwear to Altra, Topo and some German brands. It has made a huge difference to my feet health. The problem that I have is finding smart / dress shoes that are foot shaped. I don't like barefoot shoes, the thin sole is uncomfortable and cold.

[@obsidiantain]

Can recommend Altra internationally. In Europe I use Altra for casual sports and Feelgrounds for boots.

[@questionauthority-f6i]

All I wear is Altra. Nothing else comes close

[@Rositasparks]

I wear them as well! They are amazing 👟

[@devlin2427]

Unfortunately Altra's quality has dropped pretty steeply in the last few years. And their sizing is not consistent model to model.

[@ridendurance]

@@devlin2427 really sorry to hear this.., was about to get a new pair. Always loved my Altra Lone Peaks.

[@obsidiantain]

I think it’s more variable, at least anecdotally. I have recent superiors and torins and zero problems, so it’s not across the board.

[@johndurrett3573]

I wear Vibrams fingered shoes and love them. I went on a 5k run where my hips had been hurting and I wasnt sure if I would go...but because I walked on the front pads only as the shoes are designed to support..I finished the 5k, my hips felt great and my calfs got a great workout.

[@VantaClawz]

All of this!❤❤❤ It will change your life. These facts saved my feet after a severe foot injury and years of bad advice.

[@rbct]

This is gold. What amazes me is that I started walking barefoot in a local bike path four days ago because I have chronic pain in my left big toe. I just came to the realization that maybe my feet should go back to the roots, since I do have several shoe brands, including hiking boots. And walking barefoot is making a difference and I can feel my toes spreading free, but what amazes me is that three days later Google suggests me this video! Crazy! She's so right! Even today, on a hike, I was thinking that the shoe market is out of hand, with every shoe feeling different from the other. My brain might be overloaded with so many different soles. And most of my shoes don't have a wide toe box, which is criminal. And I have been looking for them, but they are hard to find in my country. Damn, I might have to start throwing shoes out the window.

[@cayennepeppa707]

Altra Running!! I found that company about 10 years ago and haven't looked back. I love 'em

[@KobevanReppelen]

I'm looking at the Escalante Racer to slowly move from cushioned Saucony's to Xero running shoes. I have Vapor Glove 6's which I walk with currently! Feels great.

[@CarlYota]

@@KobevanReppelenyou have to make sure the shoe you’re considering matches the shape of your foot. Everyone has differently shaped toes. There’s like four general shapes. Just because one person fits well into altra or xero or vivo doesn’t mean your foot will. Pick a shoe that looks like your splayed foot does. And you might have to go with less known brands to find it. And the colorways are gonna suck if you’re used to running shoes like Hokas.

[@pattaylor7298]

I've been wearing Vibram Five Finger shoes for at least fifteen years. I have four different pairs that I go to for fast walking or just around the house. They keep my knee pain and plantar fasciata at bay. Love them!!

[@RicosUncle]

Great podcast interview! She knows way more about feet/shoes than 99% of all other Dr's!

[@Argee55732]

Way to go. I’ve moved to 0 drop, wide toe body shoes. Been 8 mos and still dealing with decreasing aches. Toronto @ 69.

[@anonymoussource7999]

If you can provide the list of wide toe box shoes in the show notes, that’d be great.👍

[@Ummonchinable]

If you order through her website, I believe you get a discount on some of the shoes and she probably gets some sort of financial compensation.

[@youtubewts]

​@@Ummonchinablethat's not what is being asked

[@mcfarlac1]

Agreed, put the list of shoe companies in the KZbin show notes like promised in the video.

[@Ummonchinable]

@@youtubewts The list is available on her website. The show notes are for subscribers. That's the

[@Ummonchinable]

That's the tradeoff for no commercials.

[@user-ncswic]

Where is the list of Courtney's "categorized wide toebox shoes"? They're not in the shownotes like the M.D. said they would be even a month after publishing the video..

[@lightworker4512]

Wide toe box? Try the New Balance 608. They have an extra wide and deep toe box to accommodate bunions and hammertoes. They also come 2E, 4E and 6E.

[@mikeb1039]

@@lightworker4512 and serious heel to toe drop.

[@mariposazuzu5220]

Xero drop shoes

[@petekadenz9465]

We need both a wide toe box and a zero drop.

[@petekadenz9465]

Try lems shoes, most of which have a wide toe box and a zero drop from heel to forefoot.

[@Greg_Chock]

I'd suggest toe socks as well to let each toe articulate. Injinji are expensive but durable. Creeper socks also good but thinner.

[@88ptrsn]

OG mid weight injinjis were durable. What they replaced em with isn't worth it for me

[@michaelherron4306]

I have vivos, zeros and wildlings and now topos. Training to walk the Camino I soon realised my hammertoed feet weren’t able for the longer distances on hard ground. I reverted to a pair of Salomons I had in the closet but just couldn’t get used to the lack of space and they felt terrible. After a bit of research I discovered Altras and Topos which are like a cross between the barefoot and Salomons. I haven’t put many miles on them yet but they feel right for the job 🤞

[@lndrcss9800]

In Brazil, we use a flipflop called Havaianas. Wider toe box. 0 drop heel. Superflexible and light. 10 bucks.

[@chazzeethomas]

I wear them, in USA, but they're not 10 bucks.

[@Jessica-zi1en]

I’ve been wearing the Hykes Pinnacle barefoot shoes, and I always tell my friends, imagine wearing a pair of pants that did all the supporting for you. If your muscles didn’t have to work, they would slowly weaken, leading to countless problems. The same goes for your feet. Since switching to the Hykes Pinnacle, my feet have become incredibly strong, and I never experience foot pain anymore. I can’t imagine ever going back to restrictive, conventional shoes. These barefoot shoes have truly transformed my foot health.

[@Voidrunner01]

Using a "rucking shoe" with an elevated heel is indeed a mistake. If you're getting achilles pain with a minimalist shoe, it means your achilles tendon is still shortened from years of wearing shoes with an elevated heel. You *have* to take the time necessary to let it stretch out or you're going to be setting yourself up for injury. Do shorter rucks with less weight for a while. Hike without weight, etc etc. Think about it from this perspective. What happens if you put a patient in a brace that limits their joint range of motion to, say, half of the normal, healthy, full ROM? Say... For a year. Can they take off that brace and immediately access their full range of motion again?

[@samueltucker8473]

So glad someone finally addressed the width problem.

[@samataenergyarts]

I would love Dr Conley’s shoe list. ❤❤

[@Genghisbeard]

Jordans and Adidas pro model have pretty wide toe box but thick soles. Whereas vans have thin soles but narrow toe box😂

[@ellenm1937]

I broke some bones in my midfoot about 10 years ago and had been struggling with finding shoes that allow me to walk and run in comfort almost that entire time. Although I had good days, a lot of days I was walking with a visible limp. Physical therapists and podiatrists recommended rocker sole shoes to help my foot break over as well as shoes with heavy cushioning. But they seemed to help little. During COVID, when I didn't go out much and spent most of the time in the house walking around barefoot, I noticed I had no foot pain. I found videos of barefoot, zero drop shoes switched to them and have had no foot pain in the last couple years. GAMECHANGERS! I now wear Lems, Altras, and Whitins and will start to experiment with other brands.

[@First-gd7ci]

I am 57 and have been running for years and after switching to HOKA I got so many injuries to the point that I ended up with MCL and Meniscus tears. I stopped running and now I am trying to slowly recover and concentrate on healing. My doctor wants to repair the meniscus through surgery so I am getting a second opinion and working on strengthening therapy. In essence I am relooking at everything foot and leg related trying to find the correct path.

[@mannymotta2174]

I’m also 57. Look up knees over toes guy on KZbin. But be sure to do the stuff with body weight only. Also , balance on a BOSU ball 1 leg at a time. (Rounded side down) I wear hoka bondi 7 when I jump rope. Best shoes for me

[@CeeBee744]

Aren't meniscus operations rare these days? Mine was treated by PT, but not terribly serious. Check out threads on barefoot running (reddit has several) to learn about shoes might work for you. Just being able to walk in shoes with ankle and knee in alignment is a game changer--as opposed to being thrust forward as is the case in non-zero drop shoes) and having toes forced upward by "toe spring." These jester shoes are the fashion in athletic shoes now.

[@c.a.s.e.academics24]

I recommend the surgery if your surgeon will do it. Most refuse to operate on middle aged folk beyond a meniscectomy (which I don’t recommend). That removes part of the meniscus and I would not want that unless totally necessary. I’ve had mine repaired. It’s clearly never gonna be perfect again, but mri says it’s healed and I am not in excruciating pain and having the knee lock out at 90 degrees anymore. Very glad I did it

[@c.a.s.e.academics24]

Meniscus operations are very common. I’m lucky to live in Japan where I could insist that they repair it rather than cut it away. Meniscus does not repair by itself or with PT, so often surgery is unavoidable. As for barefoot. It’s a long overdue concept, but the shoes aren’t very good yet. I’ve been wearing vivo as daily shoes five years. The quality is shockingly bad lately. Prices are nuts too. I’ve tried other brands. Still searching. As for sports usage. No way I’d use barefoot. No drop and non taped yes, but barefoot no chance. All that impact on the joints is gonna wear on a middle aged body. I think you have to start from young in order to do that. Any recs welcome though

[@fuzzybuddywizard]

2nd opinion never hurts. If meniscus tear is significant you should listen to your docs.

[@johnnykilo4967]

Took my running to a whole new level a couple years ago, specifically ultra running and figured sore feet, black toenails and lost toenails were just part of the game. Then I discovered Altra. Zero toe/foot issues ever since. I own road/trail/everyday ones exclusively.

[@HerenBass]

what altra model do you use for ultra?

[@johnnykilo4967]

@@HerenBass Lone Peak 6 and Olympus 5 for trail. Escalante 3 for road. Superior 5 for everyday shoe.

[@BlackstoneJ]

For those than cant afford vivo, xero etc, amazon has dupes! I got gym looking mesh ones, canvas ones for causal wear . So many different models, incredible grippy outsole, zero drop , wode toe box. Under$50

[@Karlsator]

What are they bro? Don’t keep a secret.😊

[@BlackstoneJ]

@@Karlsator type in men's barefoot sneakers . And you'll see all the variations like the gym looking ones, runner , trail, canvas , casual etc.

[@golfish8589]

Link? Name?

[@ashegam]

@@Karlsator just search for "minimalist shoes" and it will pull up a ton of options.

[@kastrelo]

@@golfish8589 Saguaro in Amazon EU, Splay, Within in Amazon USA

[@csn583]

Amazing stuff! Been meaning to listen to this full episode. I walk through loose scree and bounder fields with no fear of rolling an ankle thanks to years (hiking and running) in minimalist shoes. It's so critical to not do too much too soon, and there are specific occasions for more protective footwear, but the more opportunity you give your feet to be mobile and strong, the more they'll be indestructible with or without the extra artifice.

[@imp4573]

As a fellow zero dropper, vibram wearer, altra runner, Xero walker type of individual, having a shoe with a heel drop should still be in the rotation

[@arnoldd7073]

Nothing wrong with running in a low drop shoe in the rotation. I do most my runs now in 5mm to 8mm shoes, walking strictly 0 drop

[@47Strong]

I love barefoot on a daily basis but for rucking or just hiking past 3 miles, I learned I needed a thicker sole due to my cranky post injury foot. I call it my little old man of a foot, cause my right foot can take 5 miles up and downhill like no problem at all; but my left foot that I smashed up to smithereens two years ago, gets cranky after a certain point. Topo Athletic Terraventure allowed my left foot to make the 5 miles with minimal crankiness and ready to do it again after two days of rest. So very thankful I found that shoe for hiking. Otherwise on the daily, is its minimum of 8000 steps at work&home on nothing but barefoot shoes. Absolutely zero drop, no crammed toes is a must for the daily and the gym.

[@lawrencewalker6457]

As someone with a mid foot injury (lisfranc sprain) in middle age, I am terrified of barefoot shoes. I own 2 pairs and have been afraid to wear them since my injury.

[@joeydupre6153]

I'm mostly barefoot, but I've had a pair of Lems Primal Zens for 2 years. NEVER had foot pain, aches or any kind of discomfort. Gave aways all my standard shoes.

[@eczema78]

Love my Xero shoes for working out & day to day use. Altras are my go to for hiking

[@house9464]

Best review I've seen on these and absolutely honest . There's another reviewer who said these are absolutely softest and I bought them and there rubbish like hardened chewing gum

[@Sunnydaypicnic]

I wore strictly minimalist shoes or sandals exclusively for over 10 years. I did develop various injuries when running on the road and have recently(last 1.5 yr) switched to more cushioned shoes when on pavement/asphalt. No injuries even with high mileage on steep pavement. Still believe in the concept but not on artificial surfaces.

[@Bologna-su3kk]

I have worn zero for 8 months every wear…. Suddenly can’t walk on artificial surfaces.. without heal pain… and suffer pain when l NEED to wear a heel…

[@bolandjd]

Me too! Buying into the mid-aughts barefoot fad destroyed my feet. Funny that its coming back around. Not saying that barefoot/minimal/whatever is bad, just that YMMV. Didn't work for me.

[@arnoldd7073]

I'm the same. It's just daft having no cushion for road running, your pounding your feet when you don't need to

[@musingwithreba9667]

I wear Xero footwear almost exclusively. I also live in Toronto, where everything is concrete, and in summer, the sidewalks can be so hot I feel it thru the soles of my shoes. It's also hard to walk on, so I add NorthSole insoles to my shoes for a bit of extra cushion. They're made specifically for zero drop foot shaped shoes.

[@lawrence3242]

I found this video just full of information. You said you would have a list of shoe manufactures that you recommend couldn’t find the list.

[@lindahopkins9011]

She recommends Xero and Vivobarefoot. It is in the video on his web site. This is edited from that.

[@nomvonglismerced4311]

I run with negative drop shoes...I cut off the heel spikes of baseball/soccer spike shoes. Forced mid/fore foot strike and awesome calf loaded run. Kinda like sprint shoes with rubber soles.

[@lucasd8917]

I am currently wearing that exact shoe. Couldn't help but share.

[@JasonFarrell]

the original HFS 1 I think? Same exact shoe and color I'm in now, too. Love it. The HFS 2 added slightly more padding.

[@walterchang6074]

Name

[@lucasd8917]

Yup! Xero HFS. I have a few pairs of them, actually. Have held up decently well.

[@JasonFarrell]

@@lucasd8917 Hah. Same: I have 3 more pairs of Xeros in the attic (SALE!). I get about 1,000 miles of road running out of them before the sole wears through. Same with Vivos.

[@BA-pz3lo]

so is the HFS 2 better?

[@muleface1066]

One of my favorite things about minimalist shoes is the rounded heels. They allow my foot to land on the ground and to roll the way they seem to want to rather than forcing them into a particular angle. This matters most for walking because I run with a forefoot strike--but it affects running too.

[@walterchang6074]

Please put the shoe list on here for everyone to see so we can buy them!!!!!

[@JonJaneway]

anyone have this list?

[@garki1369]

Also, the whitin running shoe has some cushion, if you are not yet used to a more barefoot style.

[@garki1369]

The Jim Green African Ranger barefoot boot is a very durable boot, if that is what you are looking for.

[@CarlYota]

The show notes on his podcasts are behind a paywall. He’s not gonna put the list here for free. Just google barefoot shoes yourself and find something that is shaped the same as your splayed foot.

[@keneticchannel]

I've had my 5 year old in barefoot-style Saguaro shoes since he was maybe 2 or 3 and his run with shoes and barefoot looks identical-so free and light, it makes me jealous! And the proof is in the proprioception. I've been running 5mm flat sandals for years and the only injuries I've ever had were from accidentally stomping on the wrong rock and hamstring tightness because I just started stretching...last week. 😄 But no knee pain, hip pain, shin problems, ankle issues, no plantar fascia issues-nothing. Because running nearly barefoot doesn't allow me to run wrong without immediate feedback.

[@MichaelAmen316]

Where is the list of her wide toe box shoes in the show notes like you promised Peter?

[@ElijsDima]

as a starter, could look at vivobarefoot, lems, altra

[@elizabethbrown1276]

I never wear shoes around the house, I take them off as soon as i get home. I also soak my feet in warm Epsom salt or vinegar and water occasionally and i rarely foot pain or discomfort anymore.

[@urichjr]

Altra generally has the widest toe box. Once you get used to a zero drop shoe with a wide toe box you'll never go back.

[@heypauly2002]

I was out walking on a wonderful Sunday morning in my Merrill trail gloves. I really like them a lot they felt like moccasins. I stepped down on a rock in the center of my heel, and had plantar fasciitis for the next 18 months.

[@Koolbikes58]

Birkenstok makes great shoes for years.. Zero drop and wide toe box

[@thecowegg]

Was about to ask about Birkenstocks Bend low shoes

[@juliemac5604]

But if your toes aren't exactly aligned to those toe grips, it's tough.

[@davidtretter604]

I have 4 pairs of Xero shoes. It has changed my life. I have had foot pain my entire life. Not saying pain is gone but it is way less than ever before.

[@indiacoon2933]

Where is the list of shoes and the toe spacers?

[@CeeBee744]

Correct Toes. Invented by Dr. Ray MacClanahan. There's a CT web site.

[@curtislund8322]

This video inspired me to buy my first pair of zero drop, square toe box shoes this week. I learned a lot from this video!

[@duraace2053]

I've gone the complete different direction. I am doing all my runs in high stack, carbon plated, high end marathon racing shoes. The foam is so soft and I get so much energy return. I am doing more miles with and legs feel great!

[@keim3548]

You should reconsider if "doing more miles" is the goal or becoming more fit is the goal. Cushy shoes will encourage a running style that makes you dependent on that kind of shoe, vs. a minimal shoe that will build your foundational strength where you can always wear cushy shoes for races

[@SonnyDarvish]

Recently after 3 years of cycling, I found wide shoes are far more comfortable and I can ride long hours with no pain in feet, but legs, which is where pain is expected to be. Now with this information looking outside cycling, I am only seeking wide shoes for walking, running and hiking! 2-3 EU sizes smaller, but every part of feet now feels the same amount of pressure, instead of narrow chest and toe-box! Only if I knew this 35 years ago lol

[@kellrockets101]

I spent years riding thousands of miles in narrow toe box cycling shoes. Until I put on some Louis Garneau road shoes. They're amazing. Foot has so much toe box room!

[@advex4428]

This may be interesting to you. There is this canadian triathlete Lionel Sanders. He recently said he will now train without the carbon shoe again and save it for competition and key training sessions, because he feels it takes away something hard to define from his ability to run. Even though it became pretty much the state of the art triathlon tech. His stance with a good feel for his body lines up with what she explains so competently.

[@liveyourbestself]

So happy to hear Courtney Conley.

[@kevingold1091]

I frequently see the presenter say they're putting links in the show notes to something they're talking about -- in this case, shoes that have a wide toe box ( 3:20 ) -- and most of the time the link isn't there. Like in this video. Why is that? And could you add the link? Thanks.

[@tomd5178]

Probably in the full episode which is behind a paywall now. After some time, not sure how long, I believe it is removed from paywall

[@user-yk1cw8im4h]

@@tomd5178that’s still a dumbass mistake on his part, a laughable MD

[@tomd5178]

​@@user-yk1cw8im4hI found full episode on KZbin and no link there either. Agree dumbass mistake

[@KBradAdams]

I was about to say the same thing

[@larryboylarry5557]

maybe so an internet search using some of the keywords for the kind of shoes mentioned and see what shows up

[@lout9231]

As someone who’s parents were roped into buying custom in soles and god knows what for years due to the spine I was born with - it’s made me realise all of that was a scam. I was born with scoliosis and lordosis as well as one leg a little longer than the other and despite wearing the insoles etc while growing up i used to have regular back pain for years and it wasn’t until I started working out properly that the pain subsided as the muscles supported the bone structure more. Switched to barefoot shoes last year and it took a month or so to get used to wearing only them but I’m never going back. Every thing feels so much better and running has totally changed for me.

[@mfowler4651]

Finally !! Someone is talking about the need for a wide toe box shoes. I have been constantly searching over the last three years since I retired and walk bare foot most of the time. My size men's 14 makes it extremely difficult to find such shoes. Walking my dog four miles a day I need wide toe box shoes.

[@swankray6319]

I am 62 and also an avid walker. I've been using Merrell shoes for years. They have lots of wide styles and IMO are the most comfortable. Have never considered changing.

[@kateowens45]

I am in my 70's and my doctor told me the reason my feet hurt (and all other older poeple) is that the padding is gone. I look for padding in my shoe and with zero drop, I look for the space to add a soft cushioned insole. Feel the ground if you like, but I prefer to skip the pain.

[@kimielambert9613]

I love this! I have this argument at work.

[@p179]

Little advice for rucking sec;tion (5:15) on the shoes for rucking or just anytime your carrying or moving stuff. ... It's not about having a little bit of heel height like Doc Attia mentioned. It's the fact that a hiking shoe has real rubber and a decent thickness of that rubber versus eva material. That's why all hiking shoes have real rubber in the sole becaues you're carrying stuff while hiking. So it wasn't the little bit of heel height that is helping Doc. It's the rubber. If you could find rubber soled shoes with zero heel, it would be even better

[@doraneason7509]

If you're not accustomed to zero drop shoes you have to progress to it. Must train ankle mobility

[@Rungolden1]

Only for high impact activity. You were born and wake up zero drop every day.

[@robesnest]

This lady knows her stuff. We raised our children and let them go barefoot as much as possible. It's the best start for them and they're not inhibited by shoes. I am a massage therapist and see how important it is to have proper shoes. Our feet support our entire structure thus we need to provide the most optimum for the health and welfare of our feet. Be good to them and they will be good to you. I wear wide toe box zero drop and they are the best choice. She explains this perfectly.

[@2BWiley2]

Been doing the “barefoot shoes” thing for 26 years now - massively changed my life for the better. By my mid ’40’s back and knee pain were debilitating. Couldn’t stand for 30 minutes without needing to lean on something to shift weight off my lower back. Couldn’t keep a running routine for more than 60 days without tearing something (despite all the stretching, etc.). Read my first barefoot running studies around early 2008 and immediately made the change to barefoot running shoes (Vibrams in my case, still wear em to this day). Transitioned slowly over the course of the first year as my feet entirely reshaped (so much so that I had to throw away all of my old shoes because they no longer fit). Went from not being able to run more than a couple miles due to constant injuries to going out on 30-mile ultra runs within first two years of making the change. Most important, my back and knee problems went away - entirely, in all situations - and now as I turn 61 this summer those pains are a distant memory and I enjoy an elite level of fitness. I haven’t owned a pair of tennis/exercise shoes with a heel, thick sole or narrow toe box since 2008 and I will never look back.

[@uyouhaveyou]

Inspiring. I've been having some knee pain and just moved to wearing Vivos from Ecco shoes; and although Ecco are good shoes with a low drop, i feel such a difference in making this adaptation and i knew as soon as i put them on that i'd found the shoes i wish i'd had from the start. I'm eternally grateful though that i discovered Birkenstock in my late teens as they've ever been part of my life and so this change has not been so much of a shock to the system. I am relieved that i can do rugged walks with my dogs on variable terrain in these barefoot shoes and it's great i agree - like therapy, i feel it.

[@2BWiley2]

@@uyouhaveyou Vivo’s are awesome too! Great you found them. Vivo’s definitely look a whole lot better than my “toe shoes”, but over the past couple of decades I’ve learned to enjoy the toe-shoes as a conversation starter out on the trails! Ha! Enjoy being barefoot! :)

[@JasonFarrell]

Ditto. My knee and back pain literally disappeared within months of switching from narrow, high-heeled RedWing boots to barefoot. This was only 3 years ago. I felt so great walking that I WANTED to start running, and have run several Marathons since (with another coming up in only 3 days!). EDIT: oh, and zero injuries in my Xeros & Vivos, when half of regular marshmallow-shoe runners are injured every year.

[@patricktessier7238]

Great to hear! One question - Did you mean Vibram 5 fingers? So like... super minimal? Or a Vibram sole minimalist shoe?

[@2BWiley2]

@@patricktessier7238 VIbram 5 Fingers. I’ve had several of their styles over the years, they all tend to last me at least 1K miles (usually far more) before inevitably wearing a hole in the sole - so they are very well made. Of the makes I’ve owned (Bikila, KSO, KMD Sport, V-Run, V-alpha, Spyridon, & V-Trek), my personal favorite overall were the V-Trek and - for running - the V-Run. Their models have different sole thickness and I personally find the thinner the sole the better (V-Run best for me on that call), but the V-Trek (for my feet) seem more sturdy and best made, and because they come further up the ankle I don't end up with annoying little pebbles in my shoes while out on the trails nearly as often.

[@tudvalstone]

I only once bought a zero drop shoe and it hurt my knees. No more of that for me. I actually found the most comfortable show I have ever had, at Costco, a humble Sketcher. It does have a bit of a heel. Had the brand before, but this particular shoe fit me like a glove. What a pleasure to not feel any pressure point even after hours of wearing it. Bought 6 pairs since it being made of fabric, I don't expect it will last long.

[@conniefrance3832]

Years ago when I worked at Macy's, I found a pair of black sketchers at a discount shoe store. They were the most comfortable shoe for walking and standing. I actually wore them out! Recently I bought 2 pairs of sketchers and they are so uncomfortable. They felt ok in the store, but are terrible walking shoes. Go figure😐

[@SooskyPoosk]

In the talk you mentioned sharing a list of shoe companies she recommends but I don’t see it in this video’s description!

[@ScottJohnson80]

I followed Courtney's recommendation and started walking and running in minimalist shoes. I started walking in Vivo's and running in Altras, and apparently I converted too quickly because I now have an awful case of insertional Achilles tendonitis. My personal Dr. and the doctor at the orthopedic clinic said if I go the "barefoot" route, I need to start slow, but even then, if you are a distance runner like myself, running in minimalist shoes is NOT a good idea. Even if you build the muscles in your feet and ankles by wearing minimalist shoes, you still risk injury by running in those shoes. I basically fell for the hype and now have an injury where I never really had an injury running in my Brooks. I'm still going the minimalist route with my everyday shoes though.

[@jmw611]

Wheres the shoe list?

[@Brentmovson]

Xero drop shoes is what I recommend to all my clients( I am a Personal trainer & nutritionist with a specialty in longevity work ) I work with people all the time who have foot issues either due to their weight, not enough strength in the heels, achilles, etc. Start there as they are a "cheap" shoe into the market. Vivobarefoot is another version, although you will feel the ground more. There are a ton more brands, altra etc but it is what feels the best for you. Acclimation to zero drop shoes can take time

[@skrrromlett5815]

3:20 where is that list bro?

[@restoringhope9166]

Agreed!

[@Noumenon4Idolatry]

🍌 I am also on the search for this fabled list.

[@dameanvil]

- [00:09] 🦶 Letting kids' feet feel the ground on various surfaces is crucial for their foot development. - [01:34] 📏 Checking for a wide toe box is essential in both kids' and adults' footwear to allow natural toe splay. - [03:28] 🏃‍♂ Consider the heel-to-toe drop in shoes; zero drop shoes mimic natural foot positioning. - [05:03] 🥾 Performance shoes like the Nike Alphafly can enhance running speed but require proper conditioning to avoid injury. - [07:58] 💡 Negative sensations like foot pain can provide valuable feedback on shoe choice and walking form.

[@johnames6430]

women should avoid high heels, you should not be wearing a high heeled shoe everyday. For a few hours to a party it might be fine. And make sure your toes are not crushed together.

[@devinsullivan7233]

I had plantar fasciitis in my left foot for 2 years. I was wearing work boots almost all day every day. Tried maybe different brands of high end work boots. Red wings, danner, keen, crispi, ecko, timberlands. None of them helped. A few months ago I bout a pair of Terrex hiking style tennis shoes made by adidas. After about 5 days I noticed I had no pain at all in my feet. And I have had no pain since. Now I can wear boots again with no pain, but I try to wear the Terrex as much as possible.