Disclaimer: Everything on Barefoot with Nika is my opinion and not a medical advice.
Let’s tackle 5 most common (barefoot) shoe myths.
1. Shoes need cushioning
Successful marketing campaigns convinced us that our feet need cushioning and that shoes need to absorb shock in order to be comfortable. These claims are not true because our feet were designed to do just that and we prevent them to do their natural functions when we stuff them into narrow, cushioned shoes.
All this cushioning usually comes with an elevated heel which changes the alignment of the body and puts us off-balance. It also impairs the ability to feel the ground beneath us, and therefore we can’t properly react and adapt to our surroundings.
It’s also not true that minimalist shoes are only appropriate for the outdoor and not for the urban areas. There are hard, concrete-like surfaces in the outdoors as well and our feet are perfectly capable of handling that.
2. Shoes need arch support
Nope, that’s another thing that our feet can do for themselves if we let them. The foot muscles are the ones that should provide arch support, it’s their job. By adding artificial support, we just weaken them which then results in less stability.
Many foot problems, like flat feet or high arches can be corrected with the right footwear, which lets feet be feet, and with exercises which strengthen the muscles and help us regain mobility.
3. High-top shoes provide better ankle support
It’s common to believe that we need high-top shoes for better ankle support, especially for hiking and certain other sports. But what actually helps stabilize our ankles is the foot strength and mobility.
Also, it’s much easier to react and prevent slipping when we can feel what’s beneath and around us, which we can’t in stiff and rigid shoes.
4. Barefoot shoes look funny
Barefoot shoes are wider in the front which can look funny in comparison to conventional shoes. Still, with so many brands that are constantly upping their style-game, I’m sure everyone can find something that they like and is also good for their feet.
Check my Monthly Favourites thread for some ideas.
Besides, a funny thing happens after a while in barefoot shoes that this meme describes better than I can 😀
5. Barefoot shoes are expensive
You’re right, most barefoot shoes are quite expensive, but they are also high-quality. Barefoot brands are often smaller and have an ethical production, which adds to the cost.
However, there are also affordable barefoot options – you can find some on my List of Brands, or you can wait for any of the various sales – check Discounts for more.
Since barefoot shoes are usually well made and use quality materials, they last for a long time. There’s also no foam or whatever, which would reshape with wear, so minimalist shoes can easily be handed down and loved again. There are some barefoot BST (buy-sell-trade) groups on Facebook, or you might find a perfect pair of shoes in your local second-hand shop.
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Barefoot with Nika 