by Brandon Romines

Created on: February 07, 2010   Last Updated: February 09, 2010

Human feet evolved over millions of years specifically to run and walk. Modern running shoes have only existed for around forty years. The cushioned shoes may seem more comfortable, but research suggest they are more harmful than beneficial. A barefoot runner's stride differs greatly from that of a shoe wearing runner. Shoes may not weigh very much, but that weight directly on the feet has more of an impact on running efficiency than it would place elsewhere on the body. When covered a foot is less capable of feeling terrain, this reduces the body's ability to respond adequately. A little practice and education and barefoot running can be much more enjoyable than previously thought.

After studying several different strides from various people researchers found extreme differences in footfall between shoe wearers and non-shoe wearers. Running shoes, as well as most others, are cushioned to protect the heel of the foot. Cushioning reduces the pain felt from the high impact of landing on the heel. When the foot lands on the heel it brings the body to an abrupt halt, and this style of running has misled many about running barefoot. Researchers have found that habitual barefoot runners land primarily on the front of the foot. This translates into lower impact on the feet. Instead of all the potential energy being absorbed by the body, a small amount is released in rotational energy, as the rest of the foot meets the ground. When runners use this lower impact style of running the large amount of cushioning typically needed is no longer necessary.

A few ounces is not enough to worry most recreational runners, but professional athletes might need to reconsider the added weight of their shoes. This small amount of weight would have virtually no effect if placed in the middle of the body. However, the constant acceleration and deceleration of the weight directly on the foot reduces efficiency. The loss, a whopping 5%, can make quite a big difference.

Most people probably don't mind relying on cushions instead of re-learning to run and very few people could notice a 5% increase in efficiency. Everyone could still easily benefit from barefoot running. Every body part acts as a sensor for the brain, and the foot is much less capable of feeling through a shoe. Muscles, tendons and other parts in the feet and legs are much more capable of responding to terrain when barefoot. Shoes can easily lead to slight injury due to the induced clumsiness.

Like most other products, shoes can actually be more dangerous than helpful. The high impact of heel landing can lead to injury, especially unprotected. Efficiency is a problem for professionals, although most could benefit slightly. Feet are much tougher than they seem having evolved to operate without protection. Aside from the natural benefits of barefoot running, many runners simply find it more enjoyable.

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