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Barefoot Concept
What does Barefoot actually mean?
Barefoot shoes are those that allow the feet to move naturally, as close as possible to walking barefoot. Barefoot shoes have the following characteristics:
1. ZERO-DROP - the sole is perfectly flat , with the heel at the same height as the ball of the foot. Raising the heel throws off the alignment of the spine, and forces an unnatural heel strike.
2. FLEXIBILITY - they have a highly flexible sole, allowing the feet to move unrestricted, in order to become stronger. By comparison, in a stiff shoe, the soles hardly bend, and this eventually leads to muscle atrophy and pain.
3. THIN SOLE - the thinner the sole of the shoe, the more information our brain can receive through the neurotransmitters located in our feet. This is essential for optimal proprioception (our body's awareness of its own position and movement), perfect balance and finding the best posture depending on the type of surface you're stepping on.
4. WIDE TOE BOX - plenty of room for the toes. The more space the toes have to splay, the better the overall body weight distribution and posture. The role of the big toe is very important, as it supports the whole body. Try a simple exercise: do a few pushups supported by your hands, with your fingers closed in a tight fist - you'll notice that it takes a lot more effort and your body position will feel unnatural.
5. ZERO SUPPORT - no orthopedic support recommended. Barefoot shoes have no arch support, no shock-absorbent cushionings or other market innovations. If supported and unnable to move naturally, muscles gradually lose strength, and this leads to painful and weakened feet.
6. NO STIFFENERS - shoes made from a stiff material that doesn't mould to the feet, won't allow them to move freely. It is best for the shoe to mould to the shape of the foot and not the other way around. This is the reason why barefoot shoes are made from soft and flexible materials, without cardboard or plastic stiffeners to preserve their shape over time.
What is the difference between Barefoot and Minimalist?
Although our main focus is Barefoot shoes, we also have Minimalist ranges. These shoes meet all the requirements above, except for the fact that they're not as flexible as the Barefoot shoes, and have minimal stiffeners for durability. They are especially designed for older children or adults, who need their shoes to be more hardwearing and able to cope with heavier use.