Activate Expo Visitors Enlightened

'Minimal'- Vibram FiveFingers

There has been a considerable amount of discussion in the media lately about the development and benefits of barefoot running. Even though many walkers and runners are keen to change to a minimal shoe but they are often confused about how they should go about choosing the right one for them.

While exhibiting at the 2011 Activate Expo at Newcastle Entertainment Centre over the weekend, I presented an overview on the four different categories of footwear and how to choose the suitable one for each individual.

'Supportive'- Adidas Supernova

In my talk “The Truth about Sport and Walking Shoes”, I explained there are currently four distinctive categories of sports shoes on the market which are—'Minimalist', 'Supportive', 'Neutral or less supportive' and 'Therapeutic'. 

‘Minimalist’ is a type of footwear that does not provide any support; ‘Supportive’ provides full support to the foot and restrict foot function; while ‘Neutral or less supportive’ only has a support to the foot to a certain extend; and ‘Therapeutic’ offers physiological benefits like improved posture and circulation, and are normally fitted by healthcare practitioners.

'Neutral or less supportive'-
Asics Nimbus Gel

I don’t think that all of them would help improve musculoskeletal function, as most of them restrict the runner or walker from utilising the full function of their feet and do not allow neurological feedback. However, I believe that it is only through properly planting the feet that would optimise better foot function but also build strong feet. This is because strong feet are the base of support for everything up through the body. The ultimate goal for all should be to build strong feet.

'Therapeutic'- MBT

Many of the audience came to our stall afterwards commented that they were never able to understand why their comfy shoes or sport shoes were not work for them. They now see that the well-being and conditions of their feet are far more important than shoes.

With October as “Foot Health Month”, do you know how strong and well are you feet? Why not start now with a pair of BAREFOOTSCIENCE™ Insole System and let them get stronger?