The 7 Biggest Lies About Barefoot Shoes

Barefoot shoes. For some, they're a fashion accessory they swear by. For others, they’re shoes they’re afraid to even try. This fear usually comes from misinformation or, more often, from a lack of understanding of what barefoot really means. Here are the 7 most common myths about barefoot shoes you’ve probably heard. We’ve added explanations for each one to show you what the experts really say.

The 7 Biggest Lies About Barefoot Shoes
Table of contents

1. "Barefoot shoes aren’t healthy"

This is both a myth and a partial truth. If you have health problems or foot deformities, you should only transition to barefoot under the supervision of a physiotherapist. But if everything is fine, there’s no reason to hesitate. Barefoot sneakers support natural movement, activate muscles, boost blood circulation in your feet and even increase brain activity thanks to the greater amount of sensory input the sole receives. No other shoe will teach you to walk properly like barefoot shoes do. 

2. "You can’t wear barefoot shoes in the city"

Myth. Some say barefoot shoes aren’t suitable for all-day city wear. But the city is not the problem – maybe your body is. It depends on the condition of your feet, how often and on what surfaces you walk, your weight and whether you’re used to barefoot shoes. If you’re just starting, don’t attempt marathon distances right away. Start slow and gradually increase the load. Ak začínaš, nechoď hneď maratónové vzdialenosti. Začni pomaly a postupne zvyšuj záťaž. 

3. "Barefoot shoes cause flat feet"

Myth, myth and once again, myth. Flat feet are usually caused by unsuitable footwear, excess weight, overuse, or weak muscles. Arthritis can also play a role. Barefoot shoes actually make your feet work and strengthen your arches. So the disadvantages of barefoot shoes definitely don’t include causing deformities – quite the opposite. Barefoot shoes are not the cause of flat feet, they’re more likely the prevention. 

4. "My feet will get cold in barefoot shoes"

That can happen if you have poor blood circulation or wear the wrong socks. Cold feet often signal weak circulation. The solution? Activate your feet, improve your circulation, and choose the right barefoot shoes for the current weather, along with suitable socks. We also offer insulated models perfect for colder months. 

5. "Barefoot shoes don’t support your arch"

Myth. Your feet don’t need support, they need enough space, freedom and activity. Nature didn’t give us soft cushions under our feet. Our arch works when we use it. Barefoot shoes work with your body exactly as nature intended. That’s why barefoot is often called a return to our natural roots. It’s a way of wearing shoes that respects the anatomy of your feet and natural movement. 

6. "Barefoot shoes will make my feet bigger"

Bigger? Maybe. Is that bad? Definitely not. When you stop squeezing your feet into narrow shoes and start using them naturally, they may widen to their original anatomical width. It’s like wearing a corset for a long time and suddenly taking it off. Your body relaxes and slowly returns to its natural shape. Your toes may straighten, your feet get stronger, and you’ll gain better stability. If that sounds like a disadvantage, the truth is it’s actually a return to normal. Something we’ve just forgotten. 

7. "Only hippies, yogis, and alternative types wear barefoot shoes"

An ancient myth. Barefoot shoes aren’t about who you are, but about how you want to move. They’re suitable for runners, moms, grandparents, students, office workers, anyone who wants to feel their body better, improve posture, and walk without pain. Today, you can wear barefoot shoes for any occasion. For sport, to the office, or for a walk in the woods. Quite simply, barefoot shoes can be stylish sneakers too. 

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