Started barefoot walking about 6 mos ago as an experiment. I had heard barefoot walking might lessen some chronic lower back and hip pain I had been experiencing for awhile. I've slowly worked my way from walks around the block to a few miles on pavement to a few miles on trails (assisted by luna sandals). I've also begun to add some running to the mix (slowly). My back and hip have shown signs of improvement (I seem to have less need for ibuprofen and my back pain has not interfered with my sleep in months). Be patient with your feet because they do need time to strengthen
After years of barefoot walking, I think I've finally figured out the key to it: the achilles tendon. Look at the way people in conventional shoes walk: the tendon's limp and they're just kind of kicking their foot. Once I realised how weak my own tendons felt, I started consciously retracting them when walking to lift the foot and found all the rest of the movement basically follows from that, and the foot lands smoothly.
@@alexandre2792 I probably should have said, 'contract'. Does that help? I mean bending the ankle back towards the calf. But since I wrote that, I've found better advice on barefoot walking in Emily Splichal's book 'Barefoot Strong'.
Relative to getting injured by barefoot or sandal running easier, yes that may be true. But the severity of injury is key here. I'd rather stub a toe than need an knee replacement. The sandals do last a LONG time vs padded shoes that wear out fast and can start breaking down earlier than people realize, thereby causing them more harm than they realize. They may be injured or close before realizing the padded shoe is dumpster ready. A good sandal used with good form, simply becomes more minimalist and "better" for a less taxing purpose.
Yeah. I agree. If two people, one barefoot and the other in foamy shoes, ran for the same distance in the same bad form, the barefoot runner might get injured faster. But it wouldn't actually happen that way because the barefoot runner would stop after a few feet because their feet would tell them they're doing something wrong.
What do you exaclty mean by "last a logn time" ? I'm asking because I walk 10k everyday and my vibram 5 fingers starts to break after about 3 or 4 months...
@@bruttosporcoecattivo been using Luna Sandals for years. My pair with a sole very similar to a car tire I've been doing everyday use for about 2 years now. Just now starting to show major wear. My running/hiking pair, more flexible and softer sole, has shown significant wear in about half the time of significant use.
@@LiefRunsFar Thanks for your answer. I've bought a pair of Xero sandals and they're great (just for walking on road though). I've been using them for about a month now, and I can tell they're way more resistant than the five fingers.
@@bruttosporcoecattivo the ones in the video are ultra thin. I have a similar pair of shoes, Tadeevo, that I absolutely love when I need shoes instead of my sandals. But I would absolutely only use them for walking, no running or trails.
I run around 100k every week (8-12 miles daily) and that’s after 3 ACL surgeries and hip reconstruction. I strongly believe i’m able to do that because i not only LOVE to run, but i also run barefoot (vibrams v-runs), it takes the pressure off my knees and hips and onto my calves and ankles which have become much stronger as a result, but need time to adapt when you’re getting started. If its not a zero drop at least ….i get injured guaranteed. I love your video’s and am going to try making my own sandals in the near future!
You should see the documentary about the Raramuri, the indigenous long distance runners from the high mountains in the northwest of Mexico, and you will find out how they can run for hundreds of miles with some hand made sandals, fabricated with truck tire and leather laces, you will be surprised how easy and inexpensive those HUARACHES are.
I did too much stuff while carrying too much weight for too long while in the Army. The result was stress fractures in both of my shins which eventually lead to full blown compartment syndrome in both lower legs. I couldn't run, walk to fast, or even kick my legs while swimming for years, without a pretty bad flair up of said compartment syndrome. After years of that, I decided to try Vibram five finger shoes. They looked goofy and I didn't like the idea of being "that guy" who wore them, but I fell in love with those shoes and I never again had any problems with my lower legs. I was tired of the goofy look and low quality of the Vibram five fingers, though, so eventually upgraded to Vivobarefoot shoes when I learned about the company. Absolutely zero regrets and I can never understand the people who think that barefoot shoes are a sham and don't actually do anything (or may even hurt you). I feel pretty confident that if you haven't been barefoot since childhood and thus have pretty weak muscles and bones in your lower body, then immediately throw on barefoot shoes and go for a hard run complete with heel striking, then yeah... you're going to discover that those barefoot shoes mysteriously lead to injury. A little bit of common sense goes a long way.
Barefoot is still better. Being connected to the ground is important. Barefoot Sandals are very helpful when you are not sure if the terrain contains glass pieces or thorns.
We Filipino are used to running with our feet, so this was interesting. Unfortunately, I didn’t follow with that tradition of barefoot as I became a city boy in my early childhood.
I've been treadmill running in shamma warriors all winter 6 milers. Can't wait for warmer weather and take these bad boys outside!! The one thing I have noticed , I've got no foot pains at all ...no blisters and I've only adjusted the straps one time before the first time using them and have never played with the straps at all...I just kinda slide into them and they stay put!! Thanks! Happy trails!!
People are only more likely to hurt themselves while running if they're not used to being barefoot. But if you've been barefoot all your life, one would be more likely to hurt themselves with running shoes. All in all, I'm willing to bet most people are more likely to hurt themselves with running shoes than without, at least after a transition period.
I just started barefoot running, using what I was comfortable with in terms of sandals, the EV Trail, and while I easily can do 3 miles, and 6 miles straight running, I discovered a lot of issues doing a hike/run on the Sam Merrill Trail at the Angeles Crest. I have so many questions about technique, and yet there are almost no resources for understanding things such as what blisters in specific areas of your foot can tell you about your stride, or how to do a downhill on a technical trail, to even what is better for form, a strapped sandal like the EV, a Luna Huarache, vs the new style with the toe strap from Shamma. It's tough and probably individualistic, and yet is this such a niche community that no one is putting out their own troubleshooting?
Do you have specific questions? I might be able to provide you with resources that were helpful for me, or maybe even make a video answering a few, one of these days.
Awesome video. I started minimalism in January of this year and did a 55 mile hike/walk/run last week in 17 hours with no issues at all with hips/knees/ankles. Just starting to move to the barefoot sandals after using minimalist shoes for 6 months.
I realize this video is over 2 years old, but I have to comment... Wow! every word of yours is so well said and true! I ran for years, one marathon and many shorter events, occassionally ran barefoot but didn't stick with it because I was so incredibly sore after just one run. Running with big brooks on as recommended by the shoe store expert after video treadmill computer review showed "I needed them". Especially being over 6'. But the foot slapping after heel striking was my most painful and exhausting thing to deal with and I just thought well I'm not a real runner like these incredible ones I had the honor to run near and have my name hundreds of places after theirs. I just have to deal with it. But every time I ran midfoot forefoot first, no heel strike, it was the most relaxing and rewarding feeling. I settled on switching from heel strike to no heel strike during runs and that was good. Now I'm over 15 years older, haven't gone running in years, and I will begin again, gradually mix in barefoot until I can do it full time. Everything(!) you stated was and is true, I knew it then but not like I know it now, and you nailed it all with this video! Magnificent. Thank you. I'm excited to do it all again, but better. May God keep you.
Unfortunately I have a bit of survivorship bias. Now that I'm devoted to running minimally, I wish I had lots of footage of how I ran before, but it's hard to go back to my old habits.
I always wanted to try sandals. I love the 10 toes I have had for about 10 years now. I have done some bare foot and it is great but I am afraid of glass and stuff so i stopped that. But, I will say my favorite part of barefoot style running is the bumps and twigs that almost massage your feet as you run. Its almost addictive to run over gravel and stuff, to an extent.
thank you for sharing your experience! I just started running , it has been a month and I have knee pain while I walk now. I will definitely try barefoot shoes
I had knee pain 3 years ago to the point it was challenging some days to walk up a flight of stairs. I scratched the padded shoes and bought Reebok run fast pros (road), New Balance Minimus Tr (Trail). The pros aren’t full on barefoot (low stack, ground feel racers) but they definitely got me to run with better form and engaged calf and other parts of leg and knee more. Anyway, I went from previously running 15-20k in padded shoes to starting at 3-6k with theses shoes. My calves were sore after 3-6 at first. Naturally my distance and pace improved over the first 3-4 months. Knees are now fine and 8-12k is easy and not sure 24 hours later. I’m now back up to 15k to half marathon (1h 46 min). One very important thing for me is to make sure I’m enjoying the run and not putting pressure on myself or worrying to much about anything during runs. Wether that be time pace or other things in life. I mean I still record distance/pace but remember than the enjoyment factor is what’s important. Just enjoying the run, what I’m seeing and where I am. I’m 46 and smoke about 15 cigarettes a day. 5k in 23 min 20 secs right now but looking to bring that down to low around 20-21 min. Cause it’s a fun challenge and it’s fun seeing what the body can do. It’s a lot more capable at healing than we are led to believe! Good luck and have fun!
I've been using vivo barefoot for a year, but I don't know how( or where) to transition to barefoot. In my country summer city floor is too hot to even think about it, and the streets are too litered.
lovely breakdown. i really liked the way you explained it. it's so true, your feet will tell you if you're using them wrong! i usually love being barefoot, but have been wearing slippers in the house for the last couple years. i recently switched to wearing water shoes (the kind with very thin soles and stretchy fabric) because i wanted to feel more like i was walking barefoot again (slippers are heavy and clunky and make me walk weird and unstable). My feet hurt randomly in weird spots for a while as i tried to get used to walking on the balls of my feet again (my preferred way of walking). when i notice myself 'stomping', or heel-striking, i would get annoyed at the sound and feeling (no pain, just annoyance) and quickly adjust. if i was balancing wrong on the balls or putting too much pressure on the toes, i would feel tension, almost like a small cramp, and adjust. after less than a week (just wandering around the house, nothing major) i've already figured out how to walk better thanks to all that quick feedback. i feel much more sure-footed and comfortable, and i'm still getting used to it! my feet were slightly achey for the first couple days, but that's since gone way down and i already know they'll continue to feel better the more i relearn how to walk. it's amazing noticing the difference. i walked on the balls of my feet most of my life, but even just a couple years of wearing slippers and shoes, it messed me up. the difference is surreal. i can't help but get conspiratorial when I think about it! our feet connect us to our surroundings in so many ways, thick cushions and soles just deaden your sensitivity to all of that. they communicate so clearly when you let them, and they'll tell you with every step whether you're walking efficiently or not! going to buy some sort of minimalist/barefoot sneaker or sandal very soon and try running again. i used to love running. when i think about it, i think back to being a kid running barefoot and how great it felt. but as an adult, running with shoes, after a couple days something just feels 'wrong' about doing it and i'd stop. i always suspected the shoes were the problem (although they didn't hurt), but it felt overwhelming trying to find the right ones! i've always hated shoes for that reason. shoe after shoe, one's too tight, too squished, too heavy, rubs your ankles, causes blisters, and often you can't predict those problems when you try them on too! so i gave up. can't wait to try minimalist shoes. i'd love to enjoy running again. if you've read this far and are not sure how to get used to barefoot shoes, and you wear house slippers or something inside, try out cheap watershoes around the house first (or just go barefoot). it'll give you time to adjust and learn without overly stressing your feet. once you get more comfortable walking around inside, you can transition to the minimalist shoes outdoors.
Do we need to get a pair of barefoot shoes only for running? What about walking and normal life? Why the other marks ( nike, adidas, new balance, asics..balenciaga..) still produce the unhealthy type of shoes with high ankles ?
Here are 2 tips that will strengthen your feet when you transition. Skipping I really good. Also balancing and doing squats on a foam roller.Great content. As a child I was told I had flat feet - that part I true - and given hard supporting inlay’s. Since a couple of years I’ve solely using barefoot shoes or being barefoot.
I used to enjoy barefoot with everything at the age of 6 (we're poor and shoes are luxurious items) and developed high-end power run and iron skin feels like making me feel indestructible played soccer without injuries (at least i don't do Neymar pussy tricks 😂). Today i maybe needs more time for transition back to barefoot running. Except from normal shoes to zero drop shoes like Altra or Vibram five fingers. You're not gonna believe me if I tell you that I just buy Vibram FF komodo the old model and use it for 50km trail running tomorrow. I thought it was the most idiot decision I have ever made. What I did not expect or understand is what I learned during the running. It seems that the word "muscle memories" that I believe is not exist, turns out it was true. I struggle for the 1st hour running trail when suddenly it starts to get better and well. All the patterns barefoot run early days for 18 years returned to me. But of course, in slow run mode. At least i don't stop since it is a battle of attrition after all. Not bad for 73 minutes transition from shoes to Vibram FF komodo and I finished the run without DNF in 16 hours 42 minutes. I hope my share stories will might help you with this sandal running because I made it with my own DIY without buying it. Thanks 😉👍
You're right about our feet providing the feedback we need. I bought my first pair of barefoot shoes (Xero HFS) when I was recovering from a bad case of plantar fasciitis. Initially, I wore them only for walking, which still helped a lot. My feet became a lot stronger and felt better. But when I started trying to run in them, I just pounding the pavement like I had before. This hurt my feet, so I tried to adjust my form. But it ended up being an overcorrection. I was on my toes too much and suffered another injury, though (thankfully) not one that lasted long. I tried again, but I was doing something wrong and it still hurt. It was frustrating. What actually helped was switching to Altra shoes (zero drop, but not minimalist). Initially, I didn't like them. They were forcing me to change my running form. But once I adjusted, I they started to grow on me. After running in these for a while, I felt like I was much lighter on my feet and using more of a midfoot strike. This is exactly what I should have been doing all along. I've gradually been adding in some running in my Xero shoes. But it actually feels good now. So I'm working on increasing my time in these. Great stuff. Thanks for the video.
Wow, all my questions wrapped in a Sensemaking thought system. Thank you so much for putting all of this together, Peter. I am looking forward to getting some new barefoot insights from my shamma sandals.
Put up the PRs or shut up Everyone I see still wearing five fingers or running sandals in 2024 barely manage 30mpw and struggle to crack a 20 minute 5k. I can't take the lifestyle advice seriously from people that can't crack basic benchmarks like that that the average 16 year old track kid running in conventional shoes for less than 3 months effortlessly achieve. There is value in strengthening your calves and Achilles through a low drop, low stack shoe, but it should be in the context of larger program of aerobic development.
(Made an immediate switch to barefoot shoes, walking for an hour and two. No adverse effects whatsoever.) Acccording to Chinese medicine, stretching one's tight/weak calves is a great boost to one's health and can actually cure many ailments. Hence, they have devised a board that one stands on at an angle of up to 45 degrees, and recommend one stands on it for 20 min. a day. In the beginning it's painful but with time, one's calves stretch and it isn't uncomfortable.
It took almost one year to transition to barefoot shoes in my daily life. I still use conventional sports shoes when I ride a footbike, but I'm pretty sure that at some point, I'll switch there as well :-)
I've found Lems really good for cycling as their soles are thicker than the average barefoot shoe's. I wear Lems Boulder Boots, but their sneaker and shoe soles are similar. Why choose these over any standard shoe with a thick sole? Toe space! And being zero-drop and flexible, they're still better for walking in too.
Great video, my problem is I have slight bunions (that I guess could get worse), and I wear toe separators to compensate for those, but that's the only reason I can run barefoot. Otherwise within 20mins my toe starts taking up too much force from the uneven terrain or just the running in general; I haven't found a work around yet perhaps I need to do more work one my calves, they are very inflexible
Yeah my experience was that calf flexibility seems to really affect how my toes are loaded. Ideally you shouldn't have to push off with your toes at any point in your stride
My problem with barefoot was not the issues with the bottom of my feet, rather I have stubbed my toe so often that I have night mares which include stubbing my toe.
Great video! -- with one exception. "So when you wear no shoes, you're more likely to get injured, but you're even more likely to stop before you get injured and figure out what you're doing wrong." You made this plain statement multiple times without the very important context of Why. I think that will continue to convince some people that they shouldn't even try going minimal. Maybe for future videos it could go something like this: "A person who grows up being barefoot or in minimalist footwear will suffer far less injuries than someone who grows up wearing traditional footwear. So transitioning to barefoot or minimalist footwear safely will take time and effort, but it has the potential to greatly augment your quality of life."
Eh I dunno. I got injured a lot when I switched to minimalist/barefoot, things like stumbles and stubbed toes and blood blisters. It's been great for long term injury avoidance, but it's definitely not an easy transition for most people. I take the rest of the video to explain the context, so I don't think people will judge that statement on its own. I don't want to give an impression that barefoot is easy and simple, it's not.
These barefoot-type shoes are the best things ever, for senior citizens! As we age, our balance and muscle tone diminishes. When that happens, soon we lose our confidence, and we're tied to canes and walkers. These non-shoes puts our brain back in contact with our feet, and our feet back in contact with our walking surface. It improves our circulation, balance, and confidence. I hadn't felt secure walking on grass in five years before my first pair of 5-fingers. I could walk on grass, I could walk on cobbles. I could jog again. I hadn't done that in ten years. It seems ridiculous for an 80-year-old, nonrunner to buy these sandals, but they do as much good for us oldies, as they do for runners.
Yes this is why I switched to barefoot shoes! I’m not old but I work in a care home and noticed that so many of the residents had feet and balance problems. Most seem to wear uncomfortable shoes all the time. I already had feet issues from wearing too small shoes as a kid. I switched to barefoot shoes and it’s made so much difference already. Hopefully it’ll mean I’ll have less issues later in life.
Started barefoot/minimalist running after following Barefoot Ted, from Born to Run, and his company for years. I absolutely love Luna Sandals. Use a stiffer model for walking and a more flexible model for running and hiking. What do you think of the "running/hiking" sandals versus the true minimalist, almost nothing sandals you show in the video? I get all the same sensations you talk about with the Luna Sandals.
@@petertardigrade4485 I've heard Tadeevo shoes, claim to be the most minimalist shoes, and I can feel a little much for comfort on trails. Great shoes for in town.
Thank you for this amazing and inspirating video! I have a question, is this model of running kan relief my disc herniation or I mustr go on with conventional shoes?
First, no. Second, after almost ripping my right big toe nail off when I caught it on a stick while running through the woods on the second day of summer camp in 1984, I will only wear closed toe sandels like Keen H2's. I do go bear foot when I can and am interested in working on wearing bear foot shoes.
I think this is pretty legit. I've been a barefoot goer most of the time. But I still run in Altra Olympus. It always feels like running in mud barefoot (not pain). I put on Olympus and run like an antelope. I'm wondering if being barefoot most of the time keeps my running form correct and the shoes aren't actually going to cause problems. I don't get the shin splints anymore. I definitely increased my cadence and that has been massive. Also not landing heel or forefoot near as much.
im a beginner but i feel amazing in barefoot shoes and fell less pain the day after, maybe i pay more attention to technical details when barefooting and that makes a diference in injuries and pain while running..i dont know... but im not back to regular shoes for now.
I watched your video on how to make barefoot sandals, thanks but there is no way i can make my own! What brand do you recommend for a total barefoot beginner.
Shamma Sandals is great for the most adjustable, durable, customizable sandal. Xero shoes makes slightly cheaper ones, which have really great durability.
This is the most helpful advice I’ve seen or read in this area, thank you. This vid also helps me realize my new luna sandals are indeed not too small! Toes right on the edge like in your video, so thanks for that too.
But I don't wanna be without any shoe, I don't trust the ground of my city, would I have all these benefits if I start directly with the minimalist sandals?
I'm sad I didn't pull out my running sandals this summer. i still working on the best lacing technique. I still used vapor gloves but the sandals require me to adjust more to avoid blisters. It takes a bit of figuring out when I haven't used them in a while. The only time I used them o made the mistake of not bringing my other shoes to transition to and I got horrible blisters. I assume my gait needs to change but I may also need to relace them to fit more securely. I may also try some socks with them, but this girl still likes to look cute in her footwear.....
Ive started doing barefoot running this summer after having tried zero drop thin running shoes last year. My big question is what am i going to do once winter comes around and it becomes too cold too run completely barefoot. Is it possible to run in snow using barefoot sandals or do i need to go looking for even thinner running shoes.
One thing to point out, if you are a "heal striker" runner you are going to have a bad time and blow out your knee in a mile. You have to run on the ball/ toes mostly. IMO If you run on your heals it will catch up with you sooner than later anyhow.
One of the best things I've done for myself. Knee issues and ankle issues are almost remedied. I went through a transition of building my muscles and that took about a year and after that it's been great.
The only thing that scares me running in my Tevas is pebbles.. and before you laugh at me.. imagine a sharp small pebble going under your heel mid stride.. it takes you down like a stun gun. If you have bad knees like me or are say near a cliff/road, it’s obviously not a great scenario. This was informative though man, I appreciate it.
@Errcyco, you do realize, don't you, that you've just told the world how terrible your form is? Hopefully in the 2 years since you've commented you have begun to listen more to your feet and changed your foot placement. Your 'bad' knees may not have been so bad before they took all the abuse that heavy heel strike running (or even walking) dishes out. Faster cadence, slower pace, playful foot strikes, and your fear of pebbles and knee pains can become a thing of the past, if they haven't already.
Hello Peter noce ti meet you.very interesting!I'm a beginner barefoot runner I'm trying ti run with vivo barefoot and simil dove finger but my calv are getting hard likes a Stone.What Is tour addice?with altra Torino I run Halh marathon.thx
Go slowly, your calf must become more flexible to run without a heel drop. It's a huge adjustment, and time is the only way. You can gently stretch your calves if you want, but it will still take a few months.
I’m running in Luna sandals, they are by far the best things I’ve ever ran in. I’ve tried expensive cushioned shoes, and Vibram five fingers which are also great but Lunas are the most enjoyable for me. Totally flat and zero drop, they force you to learn perfect form because you’ll pay for it if you don’t. I never even want to wear shoes again after wearing these. They are coincidentally the closest thing to the Huraches the Tarahumara use and are based on them. Now I realise that all the cushioning in shoes is really to cover up bad form by compensating with padding. Some people love their shoes and if it works for them, great. But you can also run in sandals you just may have to learn to run even walk again like I did. Now I realise I’ve been walking with a heel strike my entire life in shoes..because I ‘naturally’ did that in sandals…but you have to relearn to walk landing on your forefoot. I did anyway.
Started practicing barefoot running with vibram fivefingers and minimalist shoes. Took me year and half to adjust. Felt great, was able to run 10km until i started having metatarstalgia in left foot. For the past two years I am not able to run/walk in minimalist shoes. If shoe not wide or soft enough, i start feefling pain. Anyone haf similar experience or has good advice how to solve this issue? I dream about running again barefoot and long distances.
I started running in traditional shoes and got tons of knee and shin pain. I then learned about the barefoot movement and went to barefoot shoes, and yet I STILL after 2 years have shin pain when I run. I've recently switched to full on barefoot (about 2 months ago), hoping that is the key....
Started barefoot walking about 6 mos ago as an experiment. I had heard barefoot walking might lessen some chronic lower back and hip pain I had been experiencing for awhile. I've slowly worked my way from walks around the block to a few miles on pavement to a few miles on trails (assisted by luna sandals). I've also begun to add some running to the mix (slowly). My back and hip have shown signs of improvement (I seem to have less need for ibuprofen and my back pain has not interfered with my sleep in months). Be patient with your feet because they do need time to strengthen
After years of barefoot walking, I think I've finally figured out the key to it: the achilles tendon. Look at the way people in conventional shoes walk: the tendon's limp and they're just kind of kicking their foot. Once I realised how weak my own tendons felt, I started consciously retracting them when walking to lift the foot and found all the rest of the movement basically follows from that, and the foot lands smoothly.
@@JohnMoseley hello. what do you mean by "retract" ?
@@alexandre2792 I probably should have said, 'contract'. Does that help? I mean bending the ankle back towards the calf. But since I wrote that, I've found better advice on barefoot walking in Emily Splichal's book 'Barefoot Strong'.
Relative to getting injured by barefoot or sandal running easier, yes that may be true. But the severity of injury is key here. I'd rather stub a toe than need an knee replacement. The sandals do last a LONG time vs padded shoes that wear out fast and can start breaking down earlier than people realize, thereby causing them more harm than they realize. They may be injured or close before realizing the padded shoe is dumpster ready. A good sandal used with good form, simply becomes more minimalist and "better" for a less taxing purpose.
Yeah. I agree. If two people, one barefoot and the other in foamy shoes, ran for the same distance in the same bad form, the barefoot runner might get injured faster. But it wouldn't actually happen that way because the barefoot runner would stop after a few feet because their feet would tell them they're doing something wrong.
What do you exaclty mean by "last a logn time" ? I'm asking because I walk 10k everyday and my vibram 5 fingers starts to break after about 3 or 4 months...
@@bruttosporcoecattivo been using Luna Sandals for years. My pair with a sole very similar to a car tire I've been doing everyday use for about 2 years now. Just now starting to show major wear. My running/hiking pair, more flexible and softer sole, has shown significant wear in about half the time of significant use.
@@LiefRunsFar Thanks for your answer. I've bought a pair of Xero sandals and they're great (just for walking on road though). I've been using them for about a month now, and I can tell they're way more resistant than the five fingers.
@@bruttosporcoecattivo the ones in the video are ultra thin. I have a similar pair of shoes, Tadeevo, that I absolutely love when I need shoes instead of my sandals. But I would absolutely only use them for walking, no running or trails.
No more knee pains, fatigued feet, ankle pains, foot odors, no more holes in socks, and no more costly orthopedics since going barefoot. 😊🌎✨
I run around 100k every week (8-12 miles daily) and that’s after 3 ACL surgeries and hip reconstruction. I strongly believe i’m able to do that because i not only LOVE to run, but i also run barefoot (vibrams v-runs), it takes the pressure off my knees and hips and onto my calves and ankles which have become much stronger as a result, but need time to adapt when you’re getting started. If its not a zero drop at least ….i get injured guaranteed. I love your video’s and am going to try making my own sandals in the near future!
Just asking how did you get the acl and hip injury like did the barefoot shoes cause that?
You should see the documentary about the Raramuri, the indigenous long distance runners from the high mountains in the northwest of Mexico, and you will find out how they can run for hundreds of miles with some hand made sandals, fabricated with truck tire and leather laces, you will be surprised how easy and inexpensive those HUARACHES are.
@@duranduran5422 Right! This is the culture described in 'Born To Run', mentioned in the video here.
I did too much stuff while carrying too much weight for too long while in the Army. The result was stress fractures in both of my shins which eventually lead to full blown compartment syndrome in both lower legs. I couldn't run, walk to fast, or even kick my legs while swimming for years, without a pretty bad flair up of said compartment syndrome. After years of that, I decided to try Vibram five finger shoes. They looked goofy and I didn't like the idea of being "that guy" who wore them, but I fell in love with those shoes and I never again had any problems with my lower legs. I was tired of the goofy look and low quality of the Vibram five fingers, though, so eventually upgraded to Vivobarefoot shoes when I learned about the company. Absolutely zero regrets and I can never understand the people who think that barefoot shoes are a sham and don't actually do anything (or may even hurt you). I feel pretty confident that if you haven't been barefoot since childhood and thus have pretty weak muscles and bones in your lower body, then immediately throw on barefoot shoes and go for a hard run complete with heel striking, then yeah... you're going to discover that those barefoot shoes mysteriously lead to injury. A little bit of common sense goes a long way.
Barefoot is still better. Being connected to the ground is important. Barefoot Sandals are very helpful when you are not sure if the terrain contains glass pieces or thorns.
We Filipino are used to running with our feet, so this was interesting. Unfortunately, I didn’t follow with that tradition of barefoot as I became a city boy in my early childhood.
City boy go back to nature and have fun jaja
this was a super informative video! thank you.
i'll certainly give it a go, with barefoot running!
just like when i was a kid
Mira que bien puniendo practica lo que hacen los raramuris
I've been treadmill running in shamma warriors all winter 6 milers.
Can't wait for warmer weather and take these bad boys outside!!
The one thing I have noticed , I've got no foot pains at all ...no blisters and I've only adjusted the straps one time before the first time using them and have never played with the straps at all...I just kinda slide into them and they stay put!!
Thanks! Happy trails!!
People are only more likely to hurt themselves while running if they're not used to being barefoot. But if you've been barefoot all your life, one would be more likely to hurt themselves with running shoes. All in all, I'm willing to bet most people are more likely to hurt themselves with running shoes than without, at least after a transition period.
I just started barefoot running, using what I was comfortable with in terms of sandals, the EV Trail, and while I easily can do 3 miles, and 6 miles straight running, I discovered a lot of issues doing a hike/run on the Sam Merrill Trail at the Angeles Crest. I have so many questions about technique, and yet there are almost no resources for understanding things such as what blisters in specific areas of your foot can tell you about your stride, or how to do a downhill on a technical trail, to even what is better for form, a strapped sandal like the EV, a Luna Huarache, vs the new style with the toe strap from Shamma. It's tough and probably individualistic, and yet is this such a niche community that no one is putting out their own troubleshooting?
Do you have specific questions? I might be able to provide you with resources that were helpful for me, or maybe even make a video answering a few, one of these days.
Awesome video.
I started minimalism in January of this year and did a 55 mile hike/walk/run last week in 17 hours with no issues at all with hips/knees/ankles. Just starting to move to the barefoot sandals after using minimalist shoes for 6 months.
I realize this video is over 2 years old, but I have to comment... Wow! every word of yours is so well said and true! I ran for years, one marathon and many shorter events, occassionally ran barefoot but didn't stick with it because I was so incredibly sore after just one run. Running with big brooks on as recommended by the shoe store expert after video treadmill computer review showed "I needed them". Especially being over 6'. But the foot slapping after heel striking was my most painful and exhausting thing to deal with and I just thought well I'm not a real runner like these incredible ones I had the honor to run near and have my name hundreds of places after theirs. I just have to deal with it. But every time I ran midfoot forefoot first, no heel strike, it was the most relaxing and rewarding feeling. I settled on switching from heel strike to no heel strike during runs and that was good. Now I'm over 15 years older, haven't gone running in years, and I will begin again, gradually mix in barefoot until I can do it full time. Everything(!) you stated was and is true, I knew it then but not like I know it now, and you nailed it all with this video! Magnificent. Thank you. I'm excited to do it all again, but better. May God keep you.
I would love to see an entire video comprised solely of footage of how you used to run.
Unfortunately I have a bit of survivorship bias. Now that I'm devoted to running minimally, I wish I had lots of footage of how I ran before, but it's hard to go back to my old habits.
I always wanted to try sandals. I love the 10 toes I have had for about 10 years now. I have done some bare foot and it is great but I am afraid of glass and stuff so i stopped that. But, I will say my favorite part of barefoot style running is the bumps and twigs that almost massage your feet as you run. Its almost addictive to run over gravel and stuff, to an extent.
thank you for sharing your experience! I just started running , it has been a month and I have knee pain while I walk now. I will definitely try barefoot shoes
I had knee pain 3 years ago to the point it was challenging some days to walk up a flight of stairs.
I scratched the padded shoes and bought Reebok run fast pros (road), New Balance Minimus Tr (Trail).
The pros aren’t full on barefoot (low stack, ground feel racers) but they definitely got me to run with better form and engaged calf and other parts of leg and knee more.
Anyway, I went from previously running 15-20k in padded shoes to starting at 3-6k with theses shoes.
My calves were sore after 3-6 at first. Naturally my distance and pace improved over the first 3-4 months.
Knees are now fine and 8-12k is easy and not sure 24 hours later.
I’m now back up to 15k to half marathon (1h 46 min).
One very important thing for me is to make sure I’m enjoying the run and not putting pressure on myself or worrying to much about anything during runs. Wether that be time pace or other things in life. I mean I still record distance/pace but remember than the enjoyment factor is what’s important.
Just enjoying the run, what I’m seeing and where I am.
I’m 46 and smoke about 15 cigarettes a day.
5k in 23 min 20 secs right now but looking to bring that down to low around 20-21 min. Cause it’s a fun challenge and it’s fun seeing what the body can do.
It’s a lot more capable at healing than we are led to believe!
Good luck and have fun!
I've been using vivo barefoot for a year, but I don't know how( or where) to transition to barefoot. In my country summer city floor is too hot to even think about it, and the streets are too litered.
Andrew Folts just released a great vid about transitioning: ua-cam.com/video/oUUdYgHvv70/v-deo.html
lovely breakdown. i really liked the way you explained it. it's so true, your feet will tell you if you're using them wrong! i usually love being barefoot, but have been wearing slippers in the house for the last couple years. i recently switched to wearing water shoes (the kind with very thin soles and stretchy fabric) because i wanted to feel more like i was walking barefoot again (slippers are heavy and clunky and make me walk weird and unstable). My feet hurt randomly in weird spots for a while as i tried to get used to walking on the balls of my feet again (my preferred way of walking). when i notice myself 'stomping', or heel-striking, i would get annoyed at the sound and feeling (no pain, just annoyance) and quickly adjust. if i was balancing wrong on the balls or putting too much pressure on the toes, i would feel tension, almost like a small cramp, and adjust. after less than a week (just wandering around the house, nothing major) i've already figured out how to walk better thanks to all that quick feedback. i feel much more sure-footed and comfortable, and i'm still getting used to it! my feet were slightly achey for the first couple days, but that's since gone way down and i already know they'll continue to feel better the more i relearn how to walk.
it's amazing noticing the difference. i walked on the balls of my feet most of my life, but even just a couple years of wearing slippers and shoes, it messed me up. the difference is surreal. i can't help but get conspiratorial when I think about it! our feet connect us to our surroundings in so many ways, thick cushions and soles just deaden your sensitivity to all of that. they communicate so clearly when you let them, and they'll tell you with every step whether you're walking efficiently or not!
going to buy some sort of minimalist/barefoot sneaker or sandal very soon and try running again. i used to love running. when i think about it, i think back to being a kid running barefoot and how great it felt. but as an adult, running with shoes, after a couple days something just feels 'wrong' about doing it and i'd stop. i always suspected the shoes were the problem (although they didn't hurt), but it felt overwhelming trying to find the right ones! i've always hated shoes for that reason. shoe after shoe, one's too tight, too squished, too heavy, rubs your ankles, causes blisters, and often you can't predict those problems when you try them on too! so i gave up.
can't wait to try minimalist shoes. i'd love to enjoy running again. if you've read this far and are not sure how to get used to barefoot shoes, and you wear house slippers or something inside, try out cheap watershoes around the house first (or just go barefoot). it'll give you time to adjust and learn without overly stressing your feet. once you get more comfortable walking around inside, you can transition to the minimalist shoes outdoors.
Do we need to get a pair of barefoot shoes only for running? What about walking and normal life?
Why the other marks ( nike, adidas, new balance, asics..balenciaga..) still produce the unhealthy type of shoes with high ankles ?
Here are 2 tips that will strengthen your feet when you transition. Skipping I really good. Also balancing and doing squats on a foam roller.Great content. As a child I was told I had flat feet - that part I true - and given hard supporting inlay’s. Since a couple of years I’ve solely using barefoot shoes or being barefoot.
I used to enjoy barefoot with everything at the age of 6 (we're poor and shoes are luxurious items) and developed high-end power run and iron skin feels like making me feel indestructible played soccer without injuries (at least i don't do Neymar pussy tricks 😂).
Today i maybe needs more time for transition back to barefoot running. Except from normal shoes to zero drop shoes like Altra or Vibram five fingers.
You're not gonna believe me if I tell you that I just buy Vibram FF komodo the old model and use it for 50km trail running tomorrow.
I thought it was the most idiot decision I have ever made. What I did not expect or understand is what I learned during the running. It seems that the word "muscle memories" that I believe is not exist, turns out it was true. I struggle for the 1st hour running trail when suddenly it starts to get better and well. All the patterns barefoot run early days for 18 years returned to me. But of course, in slow run mode. At least i don't stop since it is a battle of attrition after all. Not bad for 73 minutes transition from shoes to Vibram FF komodo and I finished the run without DNF in 16 hours 42 minutes.
I hope my share stories will might help you with this sandal running because I made it with my own DIY without buying it. Thanks 😉👍
Love to see true perfectionist like yourself. You have Deep knowledge of your craft! Thanks for making these videos!
You're right about our feet providing the feedback we need. I bought my first pair of barefoot shoes (Xero HFS) when I was recovering from a bad case of plantar fasciitis. Initially, I wore them only for walking, which still helped a lot. My feet became a lot stronger and felt better. But when I started trying to run in them, I just pounding the pavement like I had before. This hurt my feet, so I tried to adjust my form. But it ended up being an overcorrection. I was on my toes too much and suffered another injury, though (thankfully) not one that lasted long. I tried again, but I was doing something wrong and it still hurt. It was frustrating.
What actually helped was switching to Altra shoes (zero drop, but not minimalist). Initially, I didn't like them. They were forcing me to change my running form. But once I adjusted, I they started to grow on me. After running in these for a while, I felt like I was much lighter on my feet and using more of a midfoot strike. This is exactly what I should have been doing all along. I've gradually been adding in some running in my Xero shoes. But it actually feels good now. So I'm working on increasing my time in these. Great stuff. Thanks for the video.
Try trail running. Sandal runs aren’t the best on pavement..
Wow, all my questions wrapped in a Sensemaking thought system. Thank you so much for putting all of this together, Peter. I am looking forward to getting some new barefoot insights from my shamma sandals.
You're still heel striking and not leaning forward enough.
Thank you for this, this is great information and I cant wait to try barefoot running!
what is the creepy hanging thing? weird.
Put up the PRs or shut up
Everyone I see still wearing five fingers or running sandals in 2024 barely manage 30mpw and struggle to crack a 20 minute 5k. I can't take the lifestyle advice seriously from people that can't crack basic benchmarks like that that the average 16 year old track kid running in conventional shoes for less than 3 months effortlessly achieve.
There is value in strengthening your calves and Achilles through a low drop, low stack shoe, but it should be in the context of larger program of aerobic development.
(Made an immediate switch to barefoot shoes, walking for an hour and two. No adverse effects whatsoever.)
Acccording to Chinese medicine, stretching one's tight/weak calves is a great boost to one's health and can actually cure many ailments. Hence, they have devised a board that one stands on at an angle of up to 45 degrees, and recommend one stands on it for 20 min. a day. In the beginning it's painful but with time, one's calves stretch and it isn't uncomfortable.
Not running as much but currently on my second week for barefoot shoes with normal day to day life.
Running barefoot in the mountains, put the Rarramuris in the map😊😊😊
No
This is fantastic! Thanks so much for making this and sharing your experience.
It took almost one year to transition to barefoot shoes in my daily life. I still use conventional sports shoes when I ride a footbike, but I'm pretty sure that at some point, I'll switch there as well :-)
I've found Lems really good for cycling as their soles are thicker than the average barefoot shoe's. I wear Lems Boulder Boots, but their sneaker and shoe soles are similar. Why choose these over any standard shoe with a thick sole? Toe space! And being zero-drop and flexible, they're still better for walking in too.
@@JohnMoseley thanks a lot for the advice! I'll consider Lems as my next sports shoe 👍
@@pengovan No problem! Hope you find something that works well for you!
Will this still work for flat duck feet people 😅
I have noooo arch. However still interested in running sandals
Great video, my problem is I have slight bunions (that I guess could get worse), and I wear toe separators to compensate for those, but that's the only reason I can run barefoot. Otherwise within 20mins my toe starts taking up too much force from the uneven terrain or just the running in general; I haven't found a work around yet perhaps I need to do more work one my calves, they are very inflexible
Yeah my experience was that calf flexibility seems to really affect how my toes are loaded. Ideally you shouldn't have to push off with your toes at any point in your stride
@@petertardigrade4485 do you have any ultimate calf bullet proofing advice? Other than running forever lol 🤪
@@J.A.Seyforth check out the 2nd video in "more information" section of description.
How is running in sandals with thongs between the thumb toes and the index toes?
It seems that the thongs would rub the skin off.
very well put togeter and informative!
I make my own. Ooohhh glorious sensation❤
researching sandals....is that a tardigrades hanging in the background?
Is it okay to run with barefoot sandals on concrete roads??
Ходить в босоножках одно а бегать другое, надо готовиться. Побегал 1 раз почувствовал все деградировавшие мышцы стопы.
Great video. I also had issue with blisters and now I know why. Thank you.
My problem with barefoot was not the issues with the bottom of my feet, rather I have stubbed my toe so often that I have night mares which include stubbing my toe.
I miss that runners high! Looking fwd to getting there in my journey..
i run without shoes for 3 years, shoes dont work, mankind not to need shoes. im mexican
I'm not going to ever be wearing no shoe at all, I tried for a week and my feet all f*cked up, got a lot of spines in my foot
Great video! -- with one exception. "So when you wear no shoes, you're more likely to get injured, but you're even more likely to stop before you get injured and figure out what you're doing wrong." You made this plain statement multiple times without the very important context of Why. I think that will continue to convince some people that they shouldn't even try going minimal.
Maybe for future videos it could go something like this: "A person who grows up being barefoot or in minimalist footwear will suffer far less injuries than someone who grows up wearing traditional footwear. So transitioning to barefoot or minimalist footwear safely will take time and effort, but it has the potential to greatly augment your quality of life."
Eh I dunno. I got injured a lot when I switched to minimalist/barefoot, things like stumbles and stubbed toes and blood blisters. It's been great for long term injury avoidance, but it's definitely not an easy transition for most people. I take the rest of the video to explain the context, so I don't think people will judge that statement on its own. I don't want to give an impression that barefoot is easy and simple, it's not.
what sandals does Randy Kreill show?
good stuff! been barefoot running for years never looked back
Thanks Peter, great video. I am looking forward to your video on homemade running sandals.
Great video! I will go slow and use the info my body gives me - cheers sir!
Is it possible to run with sandals on asphalt?
These barefoot-type shoes are the best things ever, for senior citizens! As we age, our balance and muscle tone diminishes. When that happens, soon we lose our confidence, and we're tied to canes and walkers. These non-shoes puts our brain back in contact with our feet, and our feet back in contact with our walking surface. It improves our circulation, balance, and confidence. I hadn't felt secure walking on grass in five years before my first pair of 5-fingers. I could walk on grass, I could walk on cobbles. I could jog again. I hadn't done that in ten years. It seems ridiculous for an 80-year-old, nonrunner to buy these sandals, but they do as much good for us oldies, as they do for runners.
Yes this is why I switched to barefoot shoes! I’m not old but I work in a care home and noticed that so many of the residents had feet and balance problems. Most seem to wear uncomfortable shoes all the time. I already had feet issues from wearing too small shoes as a kid. I switched to barefoot shoes and it’s made so much difference already. Hopefully it’ll mean I’ll have less issues later in life.
Thank you for spreading this message!
Started barefoot/minimalist running after following Barefoot Ted, from Born to Run, and his company for years. I absolutely love Luna Sandals. Use a stiffer model for walking and a more flexible model for running and hiking. What do you think of the "running/hiking" sandals versus the true minimalist, almost nothing sandals you show in the video? I get all the same sensations you talk about with the Luna Sandals.
I would say just do what works for you, but definitely try full barefoot. After that, the thinner sandals make more sense
@@petertardigrade4485 I've heard Tadeevo shoes, claim to be the most minimalist shoes, and I can feel a little much for comfort on trails. Great shoes for in town.
Thank you for this amazing and inspirating video!
I have a question, is this model of running kan relief my disc herniation or I mustr go on with conventional shoes?
Be sure to wear the correct size.
NO, never in shoes. I run barefoot 🦶🏼🦶🏼 only. Since at 2 years old (in 1961). Shoes are not for me, and sandals sometimes in winter❗
What about flatfeet??
Ancient Greek running
First, no. Second, after almost ripping my right big toe nail off when I caught it on a stick while running through the woods on the second day of summer camp in 1984, I will only wear closed toe sandels like Keen H2's. I do go bear foot when I can and am interested in working on wearing bear foot shoes.
Great video Thankyou. I’ve been a Vibram 5 wearer for 12 years. Always wondered about these sandals.
I wish I could wear them here in Paris, it’s cold and it’s boots season. When I travel to Thailand next month, I’ll wear them.
I think this is pretty legit. I've been a barefoot goer most of the time. But I still run in Altra Olympus. It always feels like running in mud barefoot (not pain). I put on Olympus and run like an antelope. I'm wondering if being barefoot most of the time keeps my running form correct and the shoes aren't actually going to cause problems. I don't get the shin splints anymore. I definitely increased my cadence and that has been massive. Also not landing heel or forefoot near as much.
Hi
Thank you for the session! You mentioned a template for the side peice and I can't see it. 😊
im a beginner but i feel amazing in barefoot shoes and fell less pain the day after, maybe i pay more attention to technical details when barefooting and that makes a diference in injuries and pain while running..i dont know... but im not back to regular shoes for now.
I watched your video on how to make barefoot sandals, thanks but there is no way i can make my own! What brand do you recommend for a total barefoot beginner.
Shamma Sandals is great for the most adjustable, durable, customizable sandal. Xero shoes makes slightly cheaper ones, which have really great durability.
Xero Shoes has a simple kit where you can make your own barefoot sandals for about $20
may i ask, what is that “foot shaped shoe” on the left at 1:55? would love to be kind to my toes when they need to be covered
Lems Boulder Boot Waterproof
This is the most helpful advice I’ve seen or read in this area, thank you. This vid also helps me realize my new luna sandals are indeed not too small! Toes right on the edge like in your video, so thanks for that too.
But I don't wanna be without any shoe, I don't trust the ground of my city, would I have all these benefits if I start directly with the minimalist sandals?
I got a pair of five finger from Vibram. I love their motto: “You are the technology”.
I'm sad I didn't pull out my running sandals this summer. i still working on the best lacing technique. I still used vapor gloves but the sandals require me to adjust more to avoid blisters. It takes a bit of figuring out when I haven't used them in a while. The only time I used them o made the mistake of not bringing my other shoes to transition to and I got horrible blisters. I assume my gait needs to change but I may also need to relace them to fit more securely. I may also try some socks with them, but this girl still likes to look cute in her footwear.....
my pinky toe always goes out over the edge, if you know a pair
i have to buy tree size bigger and cut front...
Dawg just don’t wear anything & it’s not barefoot if you’re wear something
Do you live in Oakland? Asking cuz of the shirt.
What shoes are in the thumbnail?
And great video! My fiancè and I are ready to make the switch😊
Ive started doing barefoot running this summer after having tried zero drop thin running shoes last year. My big question is what am i going to do once winter comes around and it becomes too cold too run completely barefoot. Is it possible to run in snow using barefoot sandals or do i need to go looking for even thinner running shoes.
One thing to point out, if you are a "heal striker" runner you are going to have a bad time and blow out your knee in a mile. You have to run on the ball/ toes mostly. IMO If you run on your heals it will catch up with you sooner than later anyhow.
anything with a bottom is not actually barefoot sandals -_-
One of the best things I've done for myself. Knee issues and ankle issues are almost remedied. I went through a transition of building my muscles and that took about a year and after that it's been great.
🙊
Aqua shoes are a great first step (pun intended) into this new/old concept of foot care.
The strenght is in the form .
Can someone recommend a good minimalist barefoot shoe/sandal?
I think your close, but it is so connected to each individual.
Been trying to run barefoot but these aren't available freely in India .
Awesome video-Too much common sense-Thank you
Interesting that these guests all sell these types of shoes. So of course they will say bare feet are better
Great video. Thanks!!!
Why do you hold your hands so low while running?
Great video. Thank you for your effort.
The only thing that scares me running in my Tevas is pebbles.. and before you laugh at me.. imagine a sharp small pebble going under your heel mid stride.. it takes you down like a stun gun.
If you have bad knees like me or are say near a cliff/road, it’s obviously not a great scenario.
This was informative though man, I appreciate it.
@Errcyco, you do realize, don't you, that you've just told the world how terrible your form is? Hopefully in the 2 years since you've commented you have begun to listen more to your feet and changed your foot placement. Your 'bad' knees may not have been so bad before they took all the abuse that heavy heel strike running (or even walking) dishes out. Faster cadence, slower pace, playful foot strikes, and your fear of pebbles and knee pains can become a thing of the past, if they haven't already.
I thought this was well done and helpful. Thank you!
awesome- thank you so much...
Hello Peter noce ti meet you.very interesting!I'm a beginner barefoot runner I'm trying ti run with vivo barefoot and simil dove finger but my calv are getting hard likes a Stone.What Is tour addice?with altra Torino I run Halh marathon.thx
Go slowly, your calf must become more flexible to run without a heel drop. It's a huge adjustment, and time is the only way. You can gently stretch your calves if you want, but it will still take a few months.
I’m running in Luna sandals, they are by far the best things I’ve ever ran in. I’ve tried expensive cushioned shoes, and Vibram five fingers which are also great but Lunas are the most enjoyable for me. Totally flat and zero drop, they force you to learn perfect form because you’ll pay for it if you don’t. I never even want to wear shoes again after wearing these. They are coincidentally the closest thing to the Huraches the Tarahumara use and are based on them. Now I realise that all the cushioning in shoes is really to cover up bad form by compensating with padding. Some people love their shoes and if it works for them, great. But you can also run in sandals you just may have to learn to run even walk again like I did. Now I realise I’ve been walking with a heel strike my entire life in shoes..because I ‘naturally’ did that in sandals…but you have to relearn to walk landing on your forefoot. I did anyway.
Can you recommend any videos that teach the proper technique?
Started practicing barefoot running with vibram fivefingers and minimalist shoes. Took me year and half to adjust. Felt great, was able to run 10km until i started having metatarstalgia in left foot. For the past two years I am not able to run/walk in minimalist shoes. If shoe not wide or soft enough, i start feefling pain. Anyone haf similar experience or has good advice how to solve this issue? I dream about running again barefoot and long distances.
I don't give health advice, but I've been helped a lot from Northwest Foot & Ankle. They have a UA-cam channel
Very interesting video Thanks !!!
I started running in traditional shoes and got tons of knee and shin pain. I then learned about the barefoot movement and went to barefoot shoes, and yet I STILL after 2 years have shin pain when I run. I've recently switched to full on barefoot (about 2 months ago), hoping that is the key....
Barefoot feels amazing. You have to try it. It will probably be difficult at first, but once you settle in, it really is great.