Run Barefoot PA

There are a few options for those who are looking for some protection on their feet while still getting the experience of running barefoot. This page will highlight some of those options.

These are the traditional Luna sandals that I wear on most of my runs. At the website below you can see other styles. In my opinion these are the closest footwear to running barefoot because all you are doing is adding a thin strip of rubber to the bottom of your foot, held there with leather straps.

The first thing people always ask me when these see these on my feet is "How can you run in those?" "Are they uncomfortable?" In all honestly it took some getting used to at first. The leather straps chaffed between my toes so i added some duct tape to the straps so they'd be smoother. It also takes longer than shoes to tie them to your feet and requires a bit of adjustment so they are not too tight or too loose. I would not be wearing them however if the pay off wasn't worth it. I love these things as they allow me to run on asphalt and gravel surfaces without having to worry about stepping on pebbles. There is hardly a difference in feel between wearing these and being totally barefoot.

I discovered the idea of wearing these a few years ago during the winter when I was looking for a warmer alternative to my sandals. Moccasins have practically no sole to them, though I recommend getting a pair with a plastic or rubber sole as it won't wear out as fast and won't absorb water when running on wet surfaces. Another plus is that you can usually find a cheap pair. Less is more when you are trying to mimic barefoot running and these work great in accomplishing that.

The Vibram Five Fingers are a freaky looking running shoe that has gotten attention in recent years for its design, and concept to mimic barefoot running while giving total foot protection. I have tried these on before (They're very comfy) but have not run in them. I am sure they work great and I might consider buying them to try in the future.

If wearing something like these is too weird for you there are other options. Vibram also makes soles for some other shoe companies. The New Balance Minimus is meant to be worn barefoot (without socks) and sports a Vibram designed sole, shaped to the human foot but with some decent traction. The Merrell Barefoot also has the Vibram designed sole. I can't tell the difference so I think it is the same design. It too is meant to be worn barefoot. I have tested both of these out and found them to be decent. One of these last two shoes will most likely be my next purchase when I need a new pair for rocky trail running.

This website is owned by Garrett DiNicola. He can be reached via e-mail at grrtt_88@yahoo.com