You’ve seen them on the feet of acquaintances or friends. Â Sure they may look a bit funny, but you’re beginning to think they may provide the benefits of running barefoot while still protecting your feet.
Since they’ve been on the market for a while now, prices have come down, and there are many versions available. Â Maybe this is the week you will decide to give toe shoes a try.
If you have wondered about the benefits of running barefoot, as humans did for thousands of years, then give this type of shoe a try. Unlike regular running shoes, these allow for a more natural gait – where the toe hits the ground before the heel does. What can be wrong with running the way nature intended us to run?
Since my little toe is almost non-existent, I hesitated buying a shoe that would separate it from its neighbor. Â I ended up being surprised. Â Since the toe had to basically “pull its weight,” it seemed as if my center of balance felt stronger. Â In addition, I decided not to go on a long run the first time wearing them. Â I eased into using them slowly. Â For me, that strategy worked, and now I enjoy wearing them for shorter runs.
Reviews of running in these shoes, however, are mixed. Â Some claim to have aching feet after a run – including the toes themselves and the sole of the foot. Â Others tout how much more relaxed they feel while wearing them during a jog. Â And still others complain about how difficult some brands are to get on the foot itself. Â Basically, you may need to try the product for yourself before you can pass judgement on whether they provide benefits or not.
Although I don’t wear them for every run, I am glad I decided to purchase a pair of toe shoes. For a relatively low price, I was able to experience this fad, and I am glad that I did.
Benefits of Toe Shoes
-All toes forced to work.
-Offer some protection while experiencing a “barefoot” run.
-Allow the foot to work as nature intended.
Drawbacks of Toe Shoes
-No cushioning for those with joint problems.
-Difficult to get on.
-Protection on the top of the foot minimal.
