WALKING / how to walk in barefoot shoes with heel or forefoot

if you're used to cushion, walking in barefoot shoes can be painful, but a good heel or forefoot strike technique makes all the difference.
-andrew
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[@uglycooper]

As a long-distance backpacker, your advice is spot on. I too found it perplexing that there weren't any videos about barefoot walking, but you seem to have come to the same conclusions that I have. Your point about keeping the heels low on steep climbs is probably the most game-changing technique that's allowed me to walk 20-30 miles per day, day after day in barefoot shoes.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, at some point it was like, wait...why am I making my calves do all the work? When you involve the whole body your endurance goes way up. When I went on a backpacking trip with some friends once, they called me the "mountain goat,," because I never got tired, ha!

[@RC-qf3mp]

How many miles per day did you walk previously? I could go about 12 miles before extreme foot fatigue and soreness kicked in. I’m relatively fit… so wasn’t leg strength or body or cardio. Just my damn feet. That’s what got me into radically changing shoes and learning more. My feet grew on my first thru hike and I didn’t size up my shoes, so they shoes so feet were suffocating and scrunched. At home, I’m seeing great progress going to xero shoes and walking barefoot short distances on grassy hills. I wonder how far a fit, healthy foot can go with a 20 lb backpack and good shoes. I originally thought I’d only train in minimalist shoes and then hike in Topos or Alrras. I’ll have to try them both out and see how long it takes for foot fatigue to kick in.

[@uglycooper]

@@RC-qf3mp Thanks for your insight, I'm glad to hear that other people in the minimalist shoe community are into thru hiking! I used to be able to go about 20 miles before extreme foot fatigue set in, and now the longest I've gone is about 33 miles before my feet started killing me, granted that was all on gravel roads. But I can't attribute my increase in mileage entirely to barefoot shoes, as decreasing my baseweight from 16lbs on my first backpacking trip 2 years ago, to my current 7.6lb baseweight I plan to use on the AZT next month has probably made a difference in foot endurance. As far as your point on training in minimalist shoes and then hiking in zero drop shoes, I originally thought I'd do the same for my upcoming trip. I found that after training in minimalist shoes and then swapping back to cushioned shoes, my feet would feel much better after a long day of hiking. But, I simply prefer hiking in my barefoot shoes, as the ground feel and lack of needing to stop and massage my feet is really appealing to me. Plus, barefoot shoes tend to last longer than cushioned shoes, so you'll likely end up spending less money on barefoot shoes over the course of a thru-hike (especially if you buy second hand.) One thing I should mention is that a cushioned shoe can move much faster on certain types of terrain, mainly roads. In my barefoot shoes, I am definitely limited to walking around ~3.5mph before I start feeling like I'm shocking my joints too much. In cushioned shoes, I can almost hit 5mph, and prolonged road walks are much less taxing when pushing a faster pace. On regular trails though, I feel like my barefoot and cushioned paces are about the same. In conclusion, do whatever feels right to you. Barefoot shoes have made my feet stronger, and have made hiking in cushioned shoes much more pleasant. Take time with your transition to barefoot shoes, and see what you prefer to hike in. It's taken me a couple years to figure out what I prefer. Good luck!

[@RC-qf3mp]

@@uglycooper that’s great to know, thanks! What minimalist shoes do you wear hiking? What cushioned shoes? I wear Topos Terraventure 3 for hiking now and love them. I got z trek sandals as a camp shoe but they are now my favorite shoe and are helping me build foot strength (training in local park with boulders, hills, rocks, roots, uphill and downhill). Just short 1-2 hr walks, with 20 lbs pack. Yes, I’m going more and more ultralight, but it’s the feet that need strengthening at this point. 20lb pack is to practice long food carries. I have Xero terraflex which I use for normal walking, even though that’s overkill with their thick, harder outsole. I could use those as a hiking shoe but they aren’t very minimalist, so I wouldn’t get the foot massage feel as from z treks. Anyway, thanks for any more insights and details on your minimalist thru hiking footwear.

[@uglycooper]

@@RC-qf3mp Right now I use vivobarefoot primus trail FG as my barefoot shoe, altra superior 5.0 or mont blanc as cushioned trail shoe, and altra lp all-weather mid for snowshoeing and winter pursuits. In the past I've used xero mesa trail, VBF primus trail SG, and VFF v-alpha (apologies for all the abbreviations lol). It seems you and I are a little different: I feel like the vivos with insoles and my old mesas give me plenty of that foot massage feeling. Although it might just be because my area has a bunch of sharp rocks, haha. Anyways, thanks for your thoughts too!

[@XCF33t]

When I switched to barefoot shoes nearly 9 months ago, I was exhausted after walking half a mile. This was due to concentrating on every step. Wearing them all the time and taking walks throughout the day really caused my walking to become more natural without all the darn concentration. I also tried watching videos but decided the best was to do what felt best for me. BTW, thanks for the videos!

[@DevelopingNL]

Did you feel it in the knees too?

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, a video will get you started, but the real learning just comes from practice. Glad barefoot shoes worked out so well for you. Which one's did you go with?

[@XCF33t]

@Martin Mortensen I was a runner throughout college but had to stop due to constant reoccurring injuries. I also had plantar fasciitis so bad it hurt to walk. I had pain from my feet to hips with almost every injury possible between them. When switching, my biggest pain was dealing with my plantar fasciitis. I had some minor knee pains but was short lived. I also had achilles and calf pain but is likely due to weakness and previous lack of use of the muscles.

[@XCF33t]

@Andrew Folts I started with the Xero Prio shoes. My background and story is similar to yours. Seeing your achievement made me want to try going opposite of what all my previous PT and Dr. suggested. I was desperate to try anything to be able to walk and run again pain free.

[@DevelopingNL]

@@XCF33t you are a legend for answering me 😊 Which minimalist shoe do you recommend for running on asphalt, trail and fitness? Different shoes for different purposes?

[@ledzeppelin1212]

Excellent advice! Forefoot for running, but gentle heelstrike is ok for walking. I've had the same problem. I've tried forefoot striking while walking (like I do with running). It works great for easy walking around my house, but it's too slow to walk around anywhere at a higher speed. A light heelstrike seems like a great balance!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's kind of fun to have different "gears" you can switch too for different types of movement. Have fun out there!

[@ekponlima6816]

I respectfully disagree. A forefoot (middlefoot?) strike works perfectly fine for walking. Even at higher speeds walking. The problem is to re-adapt to it. It took me two years to relearn it. After using the heel strike all my life. Now nobody even notices me walking in middlefoot strike,as I walk normally. The benefits are great stability in my ankle and much more powerful and enduring calfs.

[@whoswho6641]

How ? ​@@ekponlima6816

[@whitemakesright2177]

I've found that the key to comfortable barefoot walking is to keep your step light and graceful. Your gait should be a smooth, gentle glide from one foot to the other.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's like a floating motion. Takes a bit of concentration at first, but then it's automatic.

[@TJ_into_the_wild]

Andrew - thank you! It has been almost impossible to find a barefoot walking technique video on here! I agree with every word and just wish it hadn't taken me so long to come to the same conclusion after walking forefoot for 2 years due to being told to not heel strike under any circumstances. Like you say, being gentle and intuitive is the way forward, as well as altering your gait to adapt to the conditions. Big thanks for a superb video and all you do for the barefoot community 👍 Peace ✌️

[@AndrewFolts]

Thanks, TJ, appreciate that! People can get pretty dogmatic about forefoot striking, but the best gait is always the one that works for you in a given moment. Props on following your intuition!

[@miguelangeldelcastillosanc568]

Amazing video as always! If you place your hand on your head while walking and you can feel the vibrations of each step it means you are striking too hard. I’ve been walking on barefoot shoes for almost a year now and once you get used to it you’ll never want to go back to “regular” shoes.

[@rubencohen2936]

Absolutely, welcome to the subculture people who went down the rabbit hole of another world 🌎 👣

[@AndrewFolts]

Ooh, that's a great tip! Did you just think of it by accident or hear about it from someone?

[@miguelangeldelcastillosanc568]

@@AndrewFolts I don't remember where I got that from but when I tried it I felt the difference between my steps. I was striking too hard and that's why walking with barefoot shoes was very tiring for me. As soon as I started striking softer I was able to walk for longer without any problems. Actually, before watching your video I was coming back from a 5 hour walk on my wildlings.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@miguelangeldelcastillosanc568 Funy, well If I make another video about barefoot walking I'll mention it and give you a shoutout.

[@miguelangeldelcastillosanc568]

@@AndrewFolts That would be awesome! Thank you for your great content!

[@RC-qf3mp]

Great video! Following your advice, I got the z trek and it’s thin so I can get real sensitivity from my contact to the ground and immediate feedback (discomfort or pain) if I goof. At first, each step was a loud slap on my hardwood floors. Now my steps are softer. Going outside, I get the variety of motion and terrains and inclines that require the flexibility that feet are capable of, as you show. Walking on flat hard surfaces is the exception , not the rule, in our evolution. Heel drop, cushioned shoes exploit that at the detriment of our overall foot health and walking ability for everything that’s not a hard, flat surface. Good job showing real world (outside) conditions and walking form. I feel like the outdoor walking actually massages my feet, rather than wearing them out. Thanks for the video.

[@uglycooper]

I fully agree with your point about getting a foot massage while wearing barefoot shoes. When I started my transition from Altras to barefoot shoes, I thought the rocky trails would tear my feet to shreds, but my feet actually felt far less sore at the end of the hike in barefoot shoes. If my feet are still feeling a bit sore on a hike, I like to find a big rock and use the edges of the rock to dig deep into my feet. It's much quicker than taking the shoes off and using a massage ball or trekking pole to roll my feet out, plus it's one less thing to carry.

[@AndrewFolts]

Totally! Barefoot is a massage for your body and for your brain too, with all the sensation. Glad you're having a good time with the Z-Trek's. Mine are still going after 6+ years, so enjoy. (:

[@RobertJinks]

I love your little hand drawn designs! So fun and creative. Thanks for this video, you've got a valuable catalog of videos, glad I ran across this!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Robert, glad you're enjoying the videos. Appreciate you dropping by. Cheers!

[@threeparthuman]

Hey nice one Andrew thanks. I’m out for a walk with my primus lite III’s and I’m watching as I walk and I realize I was doing it correctly at the start, like walking “softly” with all the cushioning and not banging the heels, but I needed a good reminder. Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Even when you're a barefoot veteran, you still have to pay attention, ha! (:

[@nathanieltheanimal9450]

the best advice I have is I tell myself "how would I walk if I was actually barefoot right now" and then I put conscience thought in to walking in a way that feels natural and comfortable. remind yourself your not wearing a thick soled shoe to clomp around in.

[@AndrewFolts]

That's a great approach to walking and great approach to life in general-just always asking your body what it wants/needs.

[@aaronbedell3753]

Thanks again for all your help and sharing your barefoot journey. You helped me so much, barefoot ended my constant pain. grateful. cheers

[@AndrewFolts]

That's great to hear, Aaron! Chronic pain is no fun, and it's so liberating to finally get free of it.

[@todallard8791]

Forefoot uses muscles and heel uses skeleton so forefoot is better. If you jump you never land on you heels, when you go up stairs you don't land on your heels when you go up and down hills you don't land on your heels which is why so many are slow on downhills landing forefoot with minimal contact time gets you downhill fast without the pounding. Heel striking is learned from cushioned death traps for feet.

[@AndrewFolts]

For walking on flat surfaces heel-striking works just fine and is way more efficient than forefoot. For hills, stairs, and running, etc, where there's more shock, yea, forefoot is the better option.

[@matriaxpunk]

​@@AndrewFolts pretty much this. We have a rounded heel for a reason, we're supposed to role over it when we walk. That's also why I find it a little bit weird to walk while wearing barefoot shoes that are completely flat instead of having a little bit o of a curved shape around the heel. I'm fine when running on them tho, precisely because I don't heel strike when running.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@matriaxpunk True...just imagining how funny it would look if we had a square heel, ha!

[@Onlylove994]

Absolutely correct. Those who walking in “barefoot shoes” on the hard surface with the heel strike they have no barefoot walking gate.

[@FlyingFun.]

Im just a week or so into barefoot shoes and struggling not to just heel strike but your advice here makes me feel better because it us exactly what ive ended up doing. Im going to try to move completely to mid front foot strike though cause the cushioning effect must be better for the joints.

[@MichaelSheaAudio]

I've been trying to walk using a forefoot strike since switching over to barefoot shoes a few weeks ago, and while it was very difficult in the beginning, it's pretty natural now, and any time I've had to run, which isn't often but I was being followed by a wasp on my walk yesterday, it's been very easy to just start running because I'm already walking on my toes. My only issue is that it's a bit slower, but I think being mindful of where and how you're stepping will generally slow you down. And it is a bit clunky, like I can really hear the shoe clop on the pavement when forefoot striking, but I can be almost silent if I place my heel down and roll my foot forward. I suppose it is a good idea to adapt how you walk to your situation, and having options is a good thing. XD

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I find forefoot walking quite awkward for longer distances, especially in shoes, but I love it for short fast walking or agility...like navigating a messy room, ha!

[@zacharystraub8361]

This is the video I needed to see. I got fore-front running down, but was really confused about how to just...walk :D Thanks man!

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha yup, just walk! (:

[@saavedra1374]

I love your videos man! I just ordered a pair of Vivobarefoot shoes. Cheers!

[@AndrewFolts]

Rad! Which ones did you go with?

[@saavedra1374]

@@AndrewFolts Primus Lite III

[@leevancleef553]

I like Andrew so much I just watched a walking tutorial. 🤷😁

[@AndrewFolts]

Right on, Lee! If you have questions, feel free to reach out. Happy barefooting out there!

[@scottydoo919]

Holy crap. Thank you. I’m a little heavy. I’m trying to go minimalist shoes. The forefoot struck walking is rough on my feet. I’m going to try this out. Thanks

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I've always found forefoot walking a bit awkward for longer distances. Just focus on planting your heel down gently, and you should do fine. (:

[@scottydoo919]

@@AndrewFolts awesome. I tell you that forefoot strike caused me to have plantar fasciitis. It took me 3 months to completely shake that pain.

[@airo30]

I switched to barefoot shoes about half a year ago and had no problems switching. I always walked the wrong way in my normal shoes. My normal shoes were always worn through on the outer edge in the forefoot first. And I never knew why. Now I know why... Thank you for the video.

[@AndrewFolts]

No problem, mystery solved! (:

[@MultiParallelGirl]

Thank you for making this video straight to the point. I ordered my first pair of barefoot shoes yesterday and I’m excited but I just don’t want to mess things up by walking wrong. My current modern shoes don’t hurt my feet except after standing for a while, and I think they are decently wide enough, they don’t smush my feet and my feet are already kinda wide themselves. But as much as I love platform shoes that I’ve been wearing for years, I realized I have a deep desire to feel the ground again. It’s been forever since I’ve even walked outside barefoot or even in sandals and I’m excited to feel the ground again..even if there is 6mm between it and my feet

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey, congrats on taking the leap, yo! Which shoes did you go with? Feeling the ground again will also open you up to feeling more in other areas of your life, so take it slow and enjoy the ride! (:

[@MultiParallelGirl]

@@AndrewFolts I got Unshoes leather vida shoes. A few weeks ago I went from wearing crocs indoors, to wearing leather slippers. I was realizing my feet hurting from wearing the crocs so much! It did sort of feel like I had to learn how to walk again..and earlier I walked around a little bit completely barefoot and my feet are kind of sore now

[@robertbissett]

Right you are. Walking with a heel strike, rolling, gliding, swinging, easy gait and no bounce, no push off the back toe is totally natural. You can find many videos that recommend something else. Believing those that said you must push off the back toe prevented me from loosing the limp after an Achilles tendon rupture for months! The key for me to break the limp habit was activating the pelvis after fifteen months which had become frozen.

[@AndrewFolts]

True, it's funny how tiny adjustments to your gate can make a big difference. Glad you were able to clear up the limb. Keep up the good work!

[@FennelWitch]

I've noticed that! As you say, if its a long road i will heel-strike,but in hills or stairs i will forestrike for force and momentum, ans also if it's just short distancews like going from one side of a room to the other. Also, I think one reason we fore-strike when completely barefoot is when we're on surfaces we're not sure are safe, so we subconciously try to feel out the ground more. Dangers like rocks, spikey plants, glass, legos, or wet/overly smooth surfaces can hurt us! When we wear shoes with thicker soles/good grip we are more fearless and heelstrike cause we don't need to be...on our toes (heheheh) about possible dangers. I know i've gone to the beach or walked down a dirt road barefoot and heel-striked cause i saw no danger in my path, but gone slower and fore-striked more at home with our tiled floors where i need more grip, or my garden garden where i might step on a stick or an angry bug or just fall on my ass like and idiot cause it had rained and i took my shoes off and ran around no this has never happened why do you ask. (Also, also! I think some shoes are just a little bulkier at the heel, so that can also...weight in (clapclapclap) on whether we heel or fore-strike)

[@AndrewFolts]

That's a great summary of foot scenarios, ha! Props to you for noticing when forefooting comes in handy. Lego's certainly warrant it, if anything. (:

[@FennelWitch]

@@AndrewFolts :P

[@simplee_shannon8252]

This was helpful thanks. I'm new to barefoot shoes. I went from purchasing my first pair of barefoot/ zero drop shoes from Amazon. After watching barefoot shoe videos I then stumbled on videos suggesting forefoot striking. I tried it a couple days while at work and it was miserable for me and not doable. I work in retail and am on my feet and sometimes have to move at a faster pace delivering orders and loading shopping carts. I could not move at a quick pace forefoot striking. Atleast with a more carefully planed heel strike I can still speed walk when needed. I feel like the suggestion to always forefoot strike just is not doable for my work life.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's possible to go fast walking with a forefoot strike, but why go to all the bother when heel striking works just fine and takes less energy. Props to you for figuring out what's best for your body! (:

[@mattvmani]

Thank you for this! I was trying to figure out what to search for. I was starting to lean towards our bodies without shoes with cushions will work itself out. Anyway, this helps. I was confused because once I walk at a certain speed I need to use forefoot. Just like you apparently lol so good stuff!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, when it comes to speed forefoot is the Ferrari and heel-striking is the Toyota Camry, ha. (:

[@samcrowther3942]

Only just descovered this chanel and I must say its my new favourite and it's inspired me to start running with a forefoot strike. Loving the cinimatography hopefully it'll grow very big ❤❤

[@AndrewFolts]

Right on, Sam! Forefoot will open up all kinds of fun shoe possibilities for you, not to mention barefoot adventures! (:

[@samcrowther3942]

@@AndrewFolts it has and I recently bought a pair of xero genesis, I ran a parkrun in them and got quite a few odd looks, even got asked if it was for charity😂

[@yali991]

Just got barefoot shoes. This video was simple and good, thx

[@AndrewFolts]

NIce! Which ones did you go with?

[@MickeyMouseMK]

Great explanation, exactly what I was looking for.

[@AndrewFolts]

Glad it helped. Appreciate you watching!

[@KiwiTimmy]

Another great video . Went for my first walk in my shoes this morning a noticed my heel was hitting the ground first and got worried i was doing it wrong

[@AndrewFolts]

Nope, as long as you're touching and rolling down gently, heel-striking is totally fine for walking. (:

[@indyschlumpf728]

Honestly, my feet are the best part of me. I guess running around barefoot all summer as a kid and wearing cheap canvas sneakers from Kmart helped in the long term. My question is what to do with my old shoes. Should I donate the barely worn ones and give other people foot problems?

[@AndrewFolts]

Possibly Dick's, Salvation Army, or other local shoe stores might take them. My store did when I worked run specialty. People will keep buying traditional shoes regardless, so you might as well donate them, ha.

[@weew0e767]

Great quick video thanks

[@AndrewFolts]

No prob. Thanks for stopping by!

[@ascension6142]

Thank you I’ve been struggling with the concept for two years now . makes sense what you’re saying

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's best just to listen to your body and let it make things simple, ha. (:

[@franksampson477]

Thanks Andrew. Very helpful advice.

[@AndrewFolts]

You're welcome, Frank, appreciate you watching!

[@AntiAnathema]

haha I always felt like I was walking like a diva on heels or a sneaky ninja trying to overexaggerate a forefoot strike trying to get used to it

[@AndrewFolts]

Lol, yea...people sometimes give you weird looks too. I always found forefoot walking a bit awkward for longer distances, but some people love it.

[@gordonchen9533]

Thanks for this video. It's interesting we are advised to run and land on forefoot, but there is little advice for barefoot walking.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's nice to be able to just switch back and forth, depending on what's needed (agility vs endurance). Glad the video was useful, cheers!

[@napninja13]

Dude.. you explained my thought process that led me here 😂 thank you SO much for this invaluable information ❤🎉

[@AndrewFolts]

Great minds think alike, ha! Glad the video confirmed your suspicions. (:

[@napninja13]

@@AndrewFolts it's even more serendipitous because my name is also Andrew lol 😂

[@AndrewFolts]

@@napninja13 Andrew²

[@Quickkill6658]

Incredible video. Thank you so much

[@AndrewFolts]

No prob. Thanks for watching! (:

[@peterlustig6705]

americans out here comparing forefoot walking to driving stick shift 😂😂 couldnt make this shit up. still really cool video :)

[@AndrewFolts]

Shout out to all the Americans wearing shoes indoors. (:

[@jacksonohno]

I have been walking on my toes on and off for years. Thinking about changing to barefoot shoes because I don’t heal strike often.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, would totally make sense if you naturally forefoot strike. Vibram's kzbin.info/www/bejne/nX-TaJehhNGii5af would be a good fit, because they feel the most like being barefoot, but the Vivo Primus Lite would be another great option. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pn7Uc2Vnd8mAfdk

[@2024Alfredo]

Great video ! I can run forefoot well but have trouble walking softly. I have vivobarefoot primus knit and they have a thinner sole then my merrell trail glove. Hopefully these tips will help . Thank you

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, a thin sole def helps with barefoot walking, especially on roads. The Knit's are a great pick!

[@iakona23]

Andrew, in the Vibram V-Trek, would you recommend sizing up or sizing down if you are kind of on the edge? I can wear 12.5 in ASICS and the Vivobarefoot Primus, but in most other shoes it seems like I am enjoying the extra room of the size 13.

[@AndrewFolts]

They fit true to size for me. Also, they're meant to fit more like a glove, so you don't need as much room as in other shoes with harder toeboxes.

[@iakona23]

@@AndrewFolts ok I’ll think I’ll go for 12.5. I just noticed that I have a lot of extra room for my toes in my size 13 Vivobarefoot Magna Forest. I don’t want my toes to have way too much room in the Vibram V-trek. I already wear the Injinji glove-like socks and that really helps keep my toes a bit separated while wearing normal shoes.

[@JimsPub-ds3qs]

Well done!

[@AndrewFolts]

Thanks, yo! Appreciate you stopping by. (:

[@priteshmistry6764]

Hi thanks for this video. I just watched a video before this from grown and healthy that said we should always be forefoot striking when walking bare foot . Where as you suggest we can adapt it to the situation. What's your reccomendation for a beginner transitioning to barefoot ?

[@AndrewFolts]

My rule of thumb is to use forefoot for agility (like stepping around Lego's or being quiet) and heel striking when I'm walking a long distance. I think you'll find that you switch back and fore naturally. There's a reason they call it "tip toeing."

[@vladimirmach6145]

You should shave. I recommend you the safety razor Start II. open comb and Rapira Platinum lux blades.

[@AndrewFolts]

I like my beard, ha. Or do you mean my head? I do have a safety razor, but I prefer some stubble, because it helps with breathability when wearing a hat.

[@thecolordurple8435]

what shoes were you wearing at 0:57, Id really like a pair myself.

[@AndrewFolts]

Saltic Vintero kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3ayoqBqfKp5p5o. The non-insulated version is called the Outdoor: bit.ly/3Xxbgok. Great ultra tough barefoot hiking/work boot.

[@WandererOfWorlds]

Hi Andrew! Great video… really concise and clear - thank you! I have a question: I’m heading off to walk the El Camino Frances in 10 days, and am planning to do as much as I can barefoot. However, circumstances are such that I only have my Teva Tirra sandals for the rest of the way. These are fairly flat (not much if any heal lift) , but not barefoot style of course. Do you have any suggestions or tips that might help while I switch back and forth between sandals and barefoot? Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey there, well it can certainly feel a bit awkward, but the best tip I can give is just staying mindful with each step and making sure your feet are coming down smoothly, rather than clomping with a thicker sole or smashing your barefoot on a rock when you're used to protection. Have a great time! (:

[@WandererOfWorlds]

Thank you Andrew! That really puts my (over analyzing) mind at ease… @@AndrewFolts

[@meidamx]

Get some.

[@AndrewFolts]

Get walk, bro!

[@shannonschroeder1165]

What about if you work on your feet all day? I work in a hospital 12 hours and walk around a lot.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Shannon, I used to work as a shoe sales man on concrete 8+ hours a day and my feet would ache so badly in cushion shoes. But then I switched to using a pair of thin 4mm Vivobarefoot Primus Lite's bit.ly/3KDiYK7 and my fatigue and plantar fasciitis went away completely. Really, any 3-4mm soled shoe will work well. The thinness allows your feet to flex naturally vs stiff cushion shoes where your feet have to work 2x as hard to keep you stable on the mushy foam. Just take it slow at first, though. Wear a pair of barefoot shoes for maybe 30 min on day one, then slowly transition as it feels right.

[@Scarl3tGhoul]

Welp... I no longer need to watch other videos. You got straight to the point and ran the same tests I would sooo... thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

I could receive no higher compliment, thanks! Short and straight to the point is how I like videos too. (:

[@claudiovallebona7706]

When running barefoot, do you have to land with the forefoot and then touch the ground with the heel, or doesn't the heel have to touch the ground?

[@AndrewFolts]

Great question, yep, your heel should gently roll to the ground as you foot comes underneath your body.. Otherwise you'll blow out your calves trying to (unnecessarily) bear all your weight.

[@tishguerrero]

Andrew, would you know of any research studies related pelvis injuries with barefoot heel striking?

[@AndrewFolts]

Personally, I find barefoot/cushion studies to be pretty much useless, because they're bias on both sides and it's just impossible to control all the potential variables that would skew the outcome. Whether or not people experience injuries in barefoot shoes depends mainly on whether they take the transition slow, get lots of rest, and practice a soft stride. My Dad just transitioned and he said it's been a big help for chronic hip pain already.

[@thomaslevy2333]

One month only walking in barefoot shoes. And i really question if this for me. My feet and body hurt. And i have watchs 20+ hours of videos about it. And it got me nowhere 😴😢

[@AndrewFolts]

What barefoot shoes are you using and where are you walking? Roads? Trails?

[@ppmppm7010]

I've very high arches 70 years old I just don't think this suits everyone. However I am keen to try zero drop shoes though to see if it helps I t band soreness that I get after about 5 ks

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey there, whether you have high, low, or flat arches makes no difference in terms of transitioning to barefoot shoes. What matters is whether your arches are strong, and so the key is to just start with a thin 3-5mm barefoot shoe and gradually work up from 5 min per day as your body adapts. You should be transitioned in about three months, give or take.

[@truthseekercoolbeans6741]

I started walking in barefoot shoes & after a few weeks I got water retention in my ankles. I’ve never had that before in my life. What is happening? I also feel a lot of soreness in different leg muscles which I expected. But not sure what strength stretching to do to help strengthen my muscles. TIA!

[@AndrewFolts]

Interesting, I've never heard anyone report that happening before. Perhaps your feet are more fully engaged than usual, which is affecting fluid retention/circulation as they adjust. If you're feeling a lot of soreness, it means you're transitioning too quickly and need to give your body some time to catch up. Just lower your time/milage until the pain reduces before ramping up again.

[@truthseekercoolbeans6741]

@@AndrewFolts Yes, I that’s the only explanation. I’ve gone from 1 mile to 3 miles in a span of a few days. I used to walk 5 to 10 on a normal day. But that was a few years ago. It’s so annoying lol, but I did it to myself. I got too excited.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@truthseekercoolbeans6741 Just take it easy and enjoy the transition. You only get to do it once. (:

[@slothsarecool]

I went straight to forefoot walking when I got barefoot shoes and quickly fractured something, not sure what happened 😅, just need to adjust slowly maybe?

[@AndrewFolts]

Yes, it can take time for your body to adjust to a whole new way of walking, if you're used to thicker cushion. Which shoes were you using?

[@slothsarecool]

@@AndrewFolts I got some Vivos, I’ll try taking it slower and see how it goes

[@cs1lva53]

helpful video, thanks Question, what style Vibram shoe are you wearing at 2:16 in the clip. Thanks again

[@AndrewFolts]

Vibram V-Trek: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nX-TaJehhNGii5Y. They're the best, IMO, because they work for absolutely everything, from gym to road running to hiking and trail running.

[@davidroseman3287]

Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey, thanks, David! Your support means a lot and goes straight into me making more videos. (:

[@davidroseman3287]

Your videos have given me some much needed encouragement and brought joy to my (decidely unambitious and recreational) running and walking Andrew. Thanks for everything.

[@DevelopingNL]

Does your toes fit perfectly in each toe pocket of the Fivefingers shoe?

[@AndrewFolts]

My pinky toes are crooked from wearing soccer cleats as a kid, so they take a little extra adjusting, but once they're on they feel great. The fabric's stretchy, so it works well for most foot types.

[@dylanturley7291]

Would you still say barefoot shoes are healthy than regular shoes (with cushion) if your working on concrete all day?

[@AndrewFolts]

Yep, in fact when I was a shoe salesman working on concrete for 8-hour shifts ultra thin 3-4mm barefoot shoes were the only thing I could wear that didn't make my feet hurt. In soft cushion shoes it was just unbearable, because my feet had to work 2x hard to keep me stable and didn't flex properly. The ones I used the most were the Vivo Primus Lite's kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5XJYoVoj5d-d7s, but the Belenka Dash kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWa8f39nnqdoo80 and Xero HFS kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqWah6ZjZ8aKgrs would be great options too.

[@dylanturley7291]

@@AndrewFolts Man dude, thank you so much for the information, I really appreciate it

[@rubencohen2936]

If Dorothy in OZ had only been wearing barefoot shoes, her feet wouldn't have hurt. She did a lot of walking all over OZ in those uncomfortable elevated ruby slippers. Follow the yellow brick road. 👣 🌟

[@AndrewFolts]

Lol. someone should use one of those AI video generators to give her some red Vibram FiveFingers. "The Wizard of Vibz"

[@rubencohen2936]

@AndrewFolts Glinda the Good Witch told Dorothy that she always had the ability to go home at any time. Just click your heals 3 times in your barefoot shoes and say, " There's no place home. " 🧐 👣

[@AndrewFolts]

@@rubencohen2936 Problem was, Dorothy kept clicking her heels when she should have been clicking her forefoot. (:

[@LouisLuzuka]

Anyone recommend any grippy winter boot or waterproof barefoot shoe? I keep slipping in my vibram 5 finger shoes 😅

[@LouisLuzuka]

Ice is not my friend 😢

[@AndrewFolts]

Since ice is so slick, normal lugs won't give you any traction. The only barefoot shoe I know that has a good grip for ice is the Vibram OSLO boot. It's got their Arctic Grip, which is a sort of sandpapery material. Looks like it runs very small, so make sure to size up 2x at least: us.vibram.com/shop/shop-all-products/furoshiki/arctic-grip/furoshiki-oslo-wp-vibram-arctic-grip---mens-18MCG.html?dwvar_18MCG_color=Black#start=1

[@DankMemes-xq2xm]

Lems Boulder Summit

[@basketballadigonzalez5561]

I don’t know what shoe buy first? Toe shoe? Non toe shoe? What brand? Helppp

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, yea it can be overwhelming. It helps to narrow down by width, activities, terrain, climate, etc. Fill me in on those details and I can point you in the right direction.

[@basketballadigonzalez5561]

@@AndrewFolts i do have widee feet, I live in Maine, the terrain is pretty much all over the place, I like to bike and take hikes on dirt trails and stuff. I’m looking to be my best and healthiest, next step is my feet!

[@AndrewFolts]

@@basketballadigonzalez5561 Ok cool, Maine is my favorite place on Earth! Love Schoodic Peninsula and Acadia. So I'd say a great first shoe would be the Primus Trail Knit FG. Great for hiking and biking with some good breathability, but enough coverage for some colder weather too. Also very flexible, but with good protection and grip. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWXamp6rprV7kJI The Vibram V-Trek is excellent as well with even better flexibility, if you're willing to try toe shoes. They're my personal fav, but they don't work in cold/wet weather. bit.ly/3uvrLss. You can also use my shoe finder tool to sort and filter by price, width, activities, etc, which can help make shopping a lot easier: bit.ly/49U1Ryo

[@bersewrker88]

Andrew i have a question bout sizing. I bought merrell vg3 luna leather and …. My feet is 27,5 aaaand measure table says shoe nr 43,5. And then some guy on yt told me to add 1 or 1,5 cm to the feet size then pick shoe size. I was worried cause i took 44,5 i added 1 cm to the feet size. After week or a bit more i started to feel gum protector in left shoe. Guess my big toe grown up and i pray that shoe eventually gonna stretch a bit. Next ones i wanna buy Merrell Wrapt Mid (those short under ankle) and i think im gonna take 45. Tell me pls hows it with other shoe companies its normal to add 1,5 cm to feet size to choose right shoe ? I never bought shoes before on internet when i was wearing normal shoes (42~43 EU).

[@AndrewFolts]

Sizing is hard and you kind of just have to try things, because every shoe/brand runs different, due to shape, width, etc. I always have about a half a thumbnail's length between my longest toe and the end of the shoe.

[@bersewrker88]

@@AndrewFolts so still its hard :) i mean sizing. The pain is kind of like there is no stationary shop with barefoot. I guess it gonna be buy send back buy send back 🤷🏼‍♂️ noone said its gonna be easy. So there is no amazon or minor companies but only shops that i know i can send shoes bac. Ok anyway thx for reply. One last question cause many ppl say on yt „too big shoe is not a problem when it comes to barefoot shoes.”

[@AndrewFolts]

@@bersewrker88 Too big could def be a problem if the shoe is too long and causing you to trip or too wide so that you're sliding back and forth. But yea, the lack of places to try them on sucks!

[@hunterkl6]

I am used to wearing Belleville flight boots for hiking and they have been brilliant on short hikes but cause a hell of a lot of pain in my calves and knees when ascending terrain and if I am going for longer distances it knackers me out. Deffo want to the transition to barefoot shoes a try though but can't decide between Merrell's, Vibram's or a Vivo magna forest barefoot shoe. Anyone got any suggestions at all? Cheers.

[@AndrewFolts]

Vibram's are my favorite by far. I have zero pain in the V-Trek's, and they're so natural feeling. They won't work in winter, though, so the Saltic Vintero is my cold weather go-to.

[@hunterkl6]

@@AndrewFolts Cheers, just had a looksy. They don't do the V-treks in my size unfortunately (UK 14's). They have them in EVO's thoguh, but don't know if I would get away with hiking in them?

[@AndrewFolts]

@@hunterkl6 Yea, you could hike in dry weather probably. Tread would be too minimal for muddy hills tho.

[@melissabaatz8443]

What brand are the brown boots that you wear in the video?

[@AndrewFolts]

Saltic Vintero Easy: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3ayoqBqfKp5p5o

[@melissabaatz8443]

Not those ones. The other brown ones that are much taller

[@AndrewFolts]

@@melissabaatz8443 Either the Noble Soles boots on Etsy or the Ahinsa Jaya's or the BeLenka Winter boot. Can tell you for sure if you give me a timestamp.

[@melissabaatz8443]

I believe they're called the ahinsa jayas. I just wanted to know the name so I could look them up

[@AndrewFolts]

@@melissabaatz8443 Nice, those are my favorites, they're so light and flexible. Here's my review video of them: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGTWhGNmaKagsJY

[@kristenvincent3622]

I’ve been trying to work on forefoot walking lately, even in my heavy cushioned shoes. I’m honestly terrified to try barefoot shoes because of the number of things I’ve stepped on on our trails that have either fully punctured or severely damaged my “normal” footwear. Would it even be safe to wear barefoot shoes where you might encounter half buried Barb wire fencing, hawthorns that can puncture tractor tires, semi buried broken glass and such? How about trails that have lots of broken sticks and sharp rocks? Walking through heavy thistle, nettle, and brambles like swampy wild rose bush filled fields?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Kristen, I've been walking in barefoot shoes and fully barefoot on trails for six years and never once stepped on anything serious. I think it's mostly because with barefoot you have much better sensation and react faster, so when you begin to step on anything prickly, you can catch yourself before putting your full weight down. Ironically, I've stepped, unknowingly, on many sharp objects with cushion shoes. Like one time I went around for a whole week with a thumbtack lodged in my NIke running shoes. Not saying it's impossible to step on something with barefoot shoes, but if your mindful you can decrease the risk to the level of normal activities like getting in a car (and not worrying about being in an accident).

[@re-de]

Why am I having knee pain with my barefoot shoes? Can someone explain?

[@AndrewFolts]

The mostly likely cause is striding too long. If you keep your stride short, your knees will stay more bent and absorb shock gently. Also, make sure that you're not wearing anything much thicker than 3-4mm for road running/walking, because you need a very thin sole to land and roll softly. For trails, 4-7mm is ideal.

[@re-de]

@@AndrewFolts my stride is short and my shoes are thin (feel grounds). I’m only able to walk for less than an hour before the pain gets worse

[@AndrewFolts]

@@re-de I tried Feelgrounds and didn't like them, my body hurt, as you say. They're 5mm as I remember, but the rubber just felt kind of hard and clunky. I've had much better luck with Vivobarefoot, Vibram, Wildling, Mukishoes, and some thinner Xero's. I'd give a 3-4mm shoe a try at some point. The Lono Flow might be a good option, as well, because it's 6mm, but cut to be highly flexible and 2mm of that is some light foam padding , which might work better for you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZK5ZXmaeq6cmtk

[@re-de]

@@AndrewFolts i pre-ordered lono last week. They’re arriving by the end of the month. I will try vivo as well. I hope my knee pain is reduced by then

[@TeeGar]

I'm guessing you put one foot in front of the other.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yes, it's quite hard to walk without doing that. (:

[@chriscoughlan5221]

Why wear those expensive shoes? Just go literally Barefoot!!! I did recently and it was amazing

[@AndrewFolts]

Totally! I love going barefoot. In the winter, though, it's not possible. Sometimes I'm running or hiking fast over very rocky terrain, and it's more fun to be able to look around, instead of constantly checking the ground. Also, there's stores...which don't look kindly on barefoot, lol.

[@Rebecca-zr3lu]

Blessings in an abundance of the faith. I salute you. 😘🙏Grace and peace be unto you and to this place. God bless you. 🕯️Thank you. Will you believe and receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and personal saviour??? I do. 🤍

[@yourube2210]

Thanks for this video, you could check out the channel grown and healthy he also talk about forefoot walking and barefoot shoe.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I find it funny watching him review barefoot shoes, because they look so tiny compared to his jacked build, ha.

[@Onlylove994]

To make a heel strike in barefoot shoes is a worst advise ever. Do you use the sandals? The heel strike gate is using in the soft surfaces: grass, forest, sand etc. Also when u have the cushioned outsole. But if you have a hard surface : it’s NO WAY U CAN USE HEEL STRIKE anymore. The feeling of shock will be sounding in your brain. Another point : u will never ever use your foot as a spring when walking if u develop only the heel strike. Here is why the front part of the foot is weakening after time. Look at your vids where u heel striking on the hard surface: u gave the layer of protection on your heel. For using the front of your foot you need to rise the knee and use the harm stings and glutes, which is a bit less lazy action. The lazy walking patter will comment you to use the heel strike as long as you have anything under your heel. It’s no way u will walk like this being barefoot in the asphalt. But it’s all the purpose of the barefoot shoe! To walk same as barefoot. Think people. 😢

[@AndrewFolts]

I run forefoot and walk with a heel strike. I've been doing it my whole life, even as a young child. It's the natural way. You can look at the curve of the human heel and see that it's designed for heel striking while walking, particularly long distances-long distance forefoot walking is incredibly inefficient and unnecessary. When I walk with a heel strike there's no impact at all, because my heel gently touches down, then rolls. For running and faster or more agile walking over shorter distances (or when speed is necessary), forefoot makes sense, because more shock absorption is needed. Overall, I've been walking with a heel strike barefoot and in barefoot shoes for seven years now with zero injuries and it hasn't decreased my foot strength in the slightest.

[@Onlylove994]

@@AndrewFoltsfirst of all if you did something all your life is does not mean it is right way. the misconception in walking gate is saying that it is only ONE WAY. In reality: the barefoot feet (!) are landing on the hard surface with the front (whee is the spring of the foot) and on the soft surface - with the heel. Nothing can beat this concept, it’s just impossible to walk on the HARD with the BATEFOOT HEEL.

[@moredatesmorefiber3526]

dont step on a nail my dude.

[@AndrewFolts]

Haven't yet. Although, funny story, I once walked around with a tiny nail in some cushion shoes for like two months without realizing it, ha.

[@r.b6170]

It's tooooo much bother. ...

[@AndrewFolts]

What's too much, ha?

[@r.b6170]

@@AndrewFolts the "change & adjustment" required inorder to adapt to them is itself too much; and the time that the required change adjustment takes, is too long for me to spend "so much money" on a pair or two, of Vivo ( or any other barefoot ) shoes. There is the added risk that I might ultimately conclude that this kind of footwear, for one reason or another, is not for me. I've spent a lot of time looking at such videos; and there are too many "it's and buts, this and that, now and later", types of pros and cons; however, I'm still not entirely ruling out such a purchase at sometime in the distant future.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@r.b6170 Here's a much easier/cheaper way to go about it. First, Freet makes some excellent barefoot shoes for under $100: bit.ly/43gsRE5. Second, you don't have to transition all at once. Just start off with five minutes per day and use your normal shoes for the rest of your walking/running. Slowly increase as it feels right, and you'll transition in 1-3 months with very little effort. Once you transition, you'll never go back. (:

[@eriksyring]

NOPE, humans never naturally heel strike (as in video), study the Amazonians.

[@AndrewFolts]

Humans naturally used both, depending on the type of activity, but heel-striking is likely the default due to being more efficient for long distances. For example, ancient Egyptian art depicts people walking heel-strike and the Laetoli footprints in Tanzania,, show a heel-strike walking pattern, both of which predate the Amazonians by 2,000 and 3.6 million years, respectively.

[@eriksyring]

Never heel strike, very slight forward lean. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIHNdqeOmr98Z9E

[@Ohlukei]

there are no "barefoot shoes". they just don't exist. either you walk barefoot, or you wear shoes. if you wear shoes you are shoefoot, not barefoot. -.-

[@AndrewFolts]

The term "barefoot shoes" means a shoe that feels like walking barefoot. With a thin 3mm sole you're getting maybe 80-90% of the ground feel and flex you get from being barefoot, so it makes sense to refer to a show like that as a barefoot shoe.