Minimalist shoe

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Evoskins - a type of minimalist shoe

Minimalist shoes are shoes intended to closely approximate barefoot running or walking conditions in comparison to traditional shoes.[1][2] They have reduced cushioning, thin soles, a wide toe box,[3] and are of lighter weight than other running shoes, allowing for more sensory contact for the foot on the ground while simultaneously providing the feet with some protection from ground hazards and conditions (such as pebbles and dirt).[4] Research shows that wearing a minimalist shoe can help improve foot strength and arch function.[5]

Types[]

Generally, there are two types of minimalist shoes:[6]

  • Barefoot Running Shoes are characterized by their zero drop from heel to toe, no arch support, minimal cushioning at the heel, and a very thin sole of around 3-10mm. Also, the toe box is considerably wider to provide more space to the toes, whereby they slightly resemble the shape of ducks' feet, when viewed from above and compared to traditional shoes. Few product lines fall into this category. Examples include the Vibram FiveFingers and Merrell Glove, which use an outsole produced by Vibram, or the Xero Prio.
  • Minimalist Running Shoes are in between traditional running shoes and barefoot running shoes. They have a reduced heel-to-toe drop of about 4–8 mm, reduced cushioning and reduced or no arch support. The toe box is usually in-between barefoot and traditional running shoes.

In recognition of the barefoot running movement, major companies also started producing shoes targeted at this customer segment. However, these shoes do not usually meet the requirement of a minimal or barefoot shoe. Examples include:

  • The Nike Free, which has a 17 mm heel and is marketed as minimalist running shoe, though this designation is disputed by some.[7]
  • The Adidas Adizero line, which has a heel-to-toe drop of 4 to 10mm, a total heel height of up to 30mm and a comparatively traditional, narrow toe box.
  • The Champion Alpha.

In contrast to barefoot and minimal shoes, one of the marketing terms repeatedly employed for this product segment is natural running.

See also[]

References[]

  1. ^ "My Shoes Are Killing Me!?". Retrieved 1 May 2018.
  2. ^ "What are Minimalist Running Shoes?". Retrieved 8 August 2013.
  3. ^ "Barefoot education". The Foot Collective. Retrieved 2020-03-22.
  4. ^ "Barefoot Running". Runner's World.
  5. ^ Miller, Elizabeth E.; Whitcome, Katherine K.; Lieberman, Daniel E.; Norton, Heather L.; Dyer, Rachael E. (2014-06-01). "The effect of minimal shoes on arch structure and intrinsic foot muscle strength". Journal of Sport and Health Science. Special Issue on “Barefoot and Minimal Shoe Running”. 3 (2): 74–85. doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2014.03.011.
  6. ^ "Barefoot/Minimalist Running Shoes: How to Choose". Retrieved 9 August 2013.
  7. ^ Hutchinson, Alex (2013-01-12). "Do Minimalist Shoes Really Simulate Barefoot Running? | Runner's World". Runnersworld.com. Retrieved 2013-08-16.
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