Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes are a type of footwear that is designed to allow natural foot movement, they typically have a wider toe box that makes space for the toes to spread out. Having ample space on the toe box means more support for your feet, promoting balance and stability.
Each barefoot shoe has its own set of features, and it is important to note that not all “barefoot” or “minimalist” shoes have a toe box wide enough to be deemed Correct Toes Approved.
Correct Toes Approved Shoes are shoes that are healthy for your feet and provide a comfortable fit when wearing Correct Toes. A Correct Toes Approved shoe will always have a toe box widest at the ends of the toes, also called an anatomical toe box, that allows for natural toe splay.
Correct Toes Approved Shoes have been evaluated by Correct Toes staff for compatibility with Correct Toes, as well as the impact on foot function. In addition to examining the toe boxes of footwear, Correct Toes evaluates how flat and flexible shoes are and how much they support your feet or encourage natural movement.
The Benefits Of Wearing Barefoot Shoes
Improved Foot Strength
Better Balance and Posture
Reduced Risk of Foot Injuries
Improved Athletic Performance
Why Do You Need Barefoot Shoes?
- Improved Foot Strength: Correct Toes Approved Shoes can help improve foot strength by allowing the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the foot to work more naturally. This can lead to better balance, stability, and overall foot function.
- Better Balance and Posture: Wearing Correct Toes Approved Shoes can help improve balance and posture by promoting a more natural gait and foot movement. This can help reduce the risk of falls and other injuries, and may also help alleviate pain or discomfort in the lower back, hips, or knees.
- Reduced Risk of Foot Injuries: Correct Toes Approved Shoes can help reduce the risk of foot injuries by allowing the foot to move and flex more naturally. They may also help prevent common foot problems such as blisters, calluses, and ingrown toenails.
- Improved Athletic Performance: Correct Toes Approved Shoes can help improve athletic performance by promoting a more natural gait and foot movement. They may also help increase foot and leg strength, which can be particularly beneficial for runners and other athletes.
Correct Toes Approved Shoes allow your feet to function in natural alignment with less external influence. Correct Toes Approved Shoes with thinner soles, like “barefoot” and “minimalist” shoes may require a “transition” period to strengthen feet as they adjust to less cushion and support.
The transition period for these shoes can vary depending on the individual and their level of foot strength and flexibility.
It’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time you spend wearing “barefoot” or “minimal” shoes to avoid overuse injuries.
Some people may need several weeks or even months to fully transition to these shoes, while others may be able to make the switch more quickly.
It’s also important to listen to your body and seek the advice of a healthcare professional if you experience any pain or discomfort during the transition period.
