Barefoot shoes have grown in popularity tremendously in recent years, and are marketed to cure everything from headaches to joint pain. Where does the hype come from and why you should be interested in these minimalist footwear too. Here are 5 undeniable reasons!
1. Stronger leg muscles
One of the biggest benefits that barefoot shoes provide is the strengthening of the leg muscles. Traditional shoes often provide too much support, which can lead to foot muscles not developing normally.
Barefoot shoes allow the feet to work naturally, which strengthens muscles and ligaments. This can reduce foot pain and prevent injuries in the long run. When the legs are allowed to work without additional support, they become stronger and more durable.
Among other things, the joints and muscles of the toe work more when the Ounas2 sole does not provide movement support like a spring, but the movement of the step is supported by the toes and their muscles.
2. Improved Proprioseptica
Proprioceptic, or Position Sense, means the body's ability to sense its position and movements in space. The sense itself cannot really be developed, but the thin and flexible sole of barefoot shoes allows for a better tactile connection to the ground. This helps the brain get more accurate information about the leg's position and movements, which can improve balance and coordination.
Especially for athletes, active people and hikers, the development of the sensitivity of the sense of position is very valuable. Improved proprioception reduces the risk of injury because the body reacts faster and more accurately to uneven surfaces and sudden movements.
3. Better posture
Barefoot shoes can help improve posture. Because they do not force the feet into an artificial position, they promote natural walking and standing. This can reduce back pain and improve overall body alignment.
For example, many traditional shoes may lead to an incorrect position of the lumbar spine and a forward-protruding head position. With heelless barefoot shoes, your step is directed to the middle or front of the foot instead of the heel. This promotes a more neutral alignment of the spine and reduces strain on both the lower back and the neck.
The next time you walk outside, track whether you step on your heel, toe, or somewhere in between. If you step on your heels, it could be that Quasimodo's attitude awaits you in your retirement days.
4. Natural movement of the foot
Barefoot shoes enable a more natural movement that is closer to how humans are evolutionarily used to moving. They provide minimal support and cushioning, which encourages the natural arch of the foot and arching.
Natural joint movement can also help prevent common exercise-related injuries such as plantar fasciitis (heel pain) and knee pain.
5. Better Circulation
One of the significant benefits that barefoot shoes provide is improved blood circulation. This benefit comes from a combination of several factors, all of which have a positive effect on the circulation of blood in the legs and the whole body.
Since barefoot shoes enable natural movement without restrictive supports and damping, it promotes muscle pump action and improves blood circulation in the lower limbs. When the legs are allowed to move freely and naturally, the ligaments and tendons remain more flexible, which can reduce the risk of injury.
Kuuva Trek 2 barefoot shoes are designed for use on hikes. The hardened rubber on the instep and heel allows for a more comfortable step, e.g. when walking.
Summary
Barefoot shoes offer many significant advantages that make them an attractive alternative to traditional shoes. Strengthening of the leg muscles, improved proprioception, better posture, natural movement and better circulation make them a great choice for anyone looking to improve their foot health and overall well-being. If you haven't tried barefoot shoes yet, now is an excellent time to give them a chance and experience their benefits for yourself.
Finnish Feelmax has been developing barefoot shoes for almost 20 years. Their footwear has gone through years of development and is popular worldwide among trail runners, active outdoorsmen and barefooters.
If it's worth starting somewhere, Feelmax, the pioneer of barefoot shoes, is a good place to start. Now you can also get Feelmax barefoot shoes in the Wølmark Finland online store. Check out the entire selection here
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