Barefoot Shoes for Running: My Honest Experience

After being bombarded by hundreds of Facebook ads for barefoot shoes, I finally gave in.

I mean, as a curious runner who loves testing new things, how could I not? Barefoot shoes have been a hot topic lately, and I had to see what the fuss was all about.

So, I decided to give them a try. I ordered two basic models from Bareway (this isn’t sponsored, I paid for them myself).

It took about 11 days for them to arrive, but hey, I live on an island, so shipping can be a bit slower here. I imagine for most of you, they’d arrive quicker.

Why Barefoot Shoes Are Trending

Before I dive into my experience, let’s talk about why barefoot shoes have been gaining so much popularity.

The idea behind them is simple: they mimic the natural feeling of being barefoot, helping to strengthen your feet and improve your posture.

They encourage your body to move in a more natural way, which can reduce the risk of injuries and even alleviate existing pain.

Plus, they’re super lightweight and flexible, making them feel less like shoes and more like an extension of your foot.

In recent years, barefoot shoes have become a favorite among runners, hikers, and even everyday adventurers.

They’re not just a fad, they’re part of a growing movement towards minimalist, functional footwear that prioritizes foot health.

If you want go deeper, I found this study about the effect of minimalist footwear wearing on biomechanical parameters of gait

My Barefoot Shoe Journey

Now, onto my experience.

‍

The black pair is the Bareway Feels Elite, and the grey pair is the Bareway Feels. The main difference lies in the upper material, I preferred the Feels Elite because it’s more comfortable and fits the foot perfectly.

The moment I slipped them on, I immediately noticed how light and minimalist they felt.

It was like being barefoot, but with just enough material to protect you from the ground. It’s hard to describe, but the sensation was… freeing.

So How Many Kilometers Have I run in Them?

Zero.

That’s right, I haven’t run a single step in my barefoot shoes. Instead, I’ve been wearing them for my everyday activities: grocery shopping, gym sessions, and general day-to-day errands. And I’ll admit, I love them for that.

But, why haven’t I run in them?

Well, after dealing with shin splints this summer and being sidelined for a few months, I’m playing it safe. For now, I stick to running in shoes with a bit more cushioning and protection.

Here’s a study about the risks and benefits of running barefoot or in minimalist shoes.

But here’s the cool part: wearing these shoes daily has already made a difference.

My feet feel stronger and more engaged, like they’ve “woken up” from years of being cushioned and supported. I can feel the feet muscles working harder, and honestly, it’s a pleasant sensation.

‍

Will I Try Running in Them Eventually?

Probably! Maybe some light, easy runs in the future. But for now, I’m enjoying the benefits they bring to my daily life!

Final Thoughts

If you're curious about barefoot shoes, I highly recommend giving them a try. Just be sure to ease into them gradually, remember that our body doesn’t handle drastic changes!

Bareway has a variety of models, including some great options for winter, and I’ve been really happy with my purchase.

Oh, and here’s a tip: they’ve got some discounts running right now, so this might be the perfect time to treat yourself to something new.

I also noticed on their website that they ship worldwide and offer a 90-day free trial (though I haven’t personally used this service, so I can’t say how it works).

For anyone considering barefoot shoes, Bareway seems like a solid choice.

Let me know if you decide to take the plunge, I’d love to hear about your barefoot experience!

Keep moving,
Matteo