![]() The human species is one of the most efficient terrestrial animals. We adapted to run on dry riverbeds and grasslands, but development of modern society has strained the evolutionary process. Footwear was initially introduced to protect the soles of the feet or provide traction or warmth. But as society has changed, footwear’s role has adapted to provide cushioning for the hard cobblestones or pavement, broad protection for industrial tasks, and more recently, as a fashion accessory and performance optimiser. A return to barefoot running has emerged as a subculture in recreational running, its devotees pointing to reduced injury rates and a more “natural” running experience. Perhaps the biggest impetus for the trend was Christopher McDougall’s 2010 best-selling book, Born to Run. While based on the story of Mexico’s Tarahumara Indians who run ultra-endurance distances barefoot or in tyre-tread sandals, McDougall also concludes that running shoes have done little to prevent injuries over the past 40 years. Apart from the aficionados writing in the popular literature, a key proponent of barefoot running is Harvard University evolutionary biologist Dr Daniel Leiberman. He argues that habitually barefoot runners land more on the mid-foot or forefoot, which reduces the transient shock on contact. ![]() Runners who wear shoes, on the other hand, land more on the heel and rely on the design of the shoe to absorb shock and control the foot during running. But Leiberman suggests the issue is less about barefoot running being better than shod running and more about how we run. Running barefoot encourages the runner to cushion the impact of landing by adjusting their running style to land with their toes down. The shock of landing is transmitted largely to the muscles at the back of the leg. As a result, barefoot and minimally shod running appears to reduce the risk of injury because they generate much lower collision forces. But don’t throw your running shoes away just yet. Barefoot runners must learn to change the way they run: landing more on the mid-foot or forefoot, rather than on the heel. Then the elastic structures within the foot will do the job they were designed to do. And the Achilles tendon and calf muscles will contract eccentrically to cushion this extra load. For those new to barefoot running, the unaccustomed strain on muscles and tendons can actually lead to injury – exactly what the change to barefoot running was supposed to prevent. The solution? Start out slowly on a safe surface (grass or sand) to toughen the sole of the foot and allow the soft tissue of the foot and ankle to adapt to the new loading strategy. Alternating running barefoot one day and shod the next will also decrease the risk of injury. We all have different abilities to learn and to adapt to new skills: some will make the adjustment and thrive as barefoot runners; others will struggle to make the change, particularly if they have irreversible structural problems with their tendons and muscles, caused by decades of wearing sneakers. Unfortunately, ditching your sneakers isn’t the silver bullet to preventing running injuries. Peter Milburn, Professor, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Griffith University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
2 Comments
8/13/2019 06:23:45 am
This is surely a myth because you can get more injuries if you even just walk without any protection. You will surely be visiting a podiatrist more often if you make this mistake. Running can give you the worst and even permanent injuries. Don't do this to yourself. Never run barefoot even if you are so sure you won't be stepping on anything. It's the weight of your body placed inappropriately against the law of gravity which can kill you. The piercings and scratches and possible dislocation and fracture are only the bonus.
Reply
Kevin
8/13/2019 08:03:22 am
I think the amount of research into the subject shows that this is probaly not the case. Certainly there would be a risk of piercing/scratches and that's why a good barefoot shoe like leguano would give the needed protection but still allow the feet to work in a more natural way. Take a look at the research by Daniel E. Lieberman, Professor of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University et al
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Archives
March 2021
CategoriesAktiv black
€99.00 - €139.99
Set yourself up for success with the sporty Aktiv. leguano’s most popular model has all the classic qualities of the traditional barefoot shoe with a few added features. Enjoying a slightly thicker sole and complete with a lace-up finish, these multi-purpose shoes are simply ideal for walking, hiking, running or springing into your lunch break with agility. What’s more, possessing a bespoke anti-slip and non-marking sole these gems are rapidly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters setting their sights on the high seas. So if you’re looking for a quality barefoot experience, with the traditional look of a tie-up shoe, all you have to do is strap yourself in for the ride! Please note that the Aktiv is a unisex model. Aktiv Yellow
€139.99
Introducing the sporty Aktivs – A true necessity for the dedicated barefooter! This latest style has the same classic qualities with a few added features; First, they have a slightly thicker sole making them ideal for walking and hiking longer distances. Second, they have a stylish lace-up look. They are truly a multi-purpose shoe that can be worn for an infinite amount of activities, especially barefoot running/training, outdoor adventure, and travel. They are also quickly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters because of their anti-slip and non-marking sole. If you are craving the feeling of being barefoot but prefer the look of a tie-up shoe, then this is the style for you!! Whether you’re dressing them up or wearing them casually, the Active style is a go-to for any occasion! Aktiv White
€139.99
Introducing the sporty Aktiv – A true necessity for the dedicated barefooter! This latest style has the same classic qualities with a few added features; First, they have a slightly thicker sole making them ideal for walking and hiking longer distances. Second, they have a stylish lace-up look. They are truly a multi-purpose shoe that can be worn for an infinite amount of activities, especially barefoot running/training, outdoor adventure, and travel. They are also quickly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters because of their anti-slip and non-marking sole. If you are craving the feeling of being barefoot but prefer the look of a tie-up shoe, then this is the style for you!! Whether you’re dressing them up or wearing them casually, the Active style is a go-to for any occasion! Gift Card
€20.00 - €200.00
Surprise someone special with a Gift Card! Gift Cards are delivered to the recipient by email and include instructions on how to redeem them at checkout. Our Gift Cards have no additional processing fees and never expire.
Aktiv Pink
€139.99
Introducing the sporty Actives – A true necessity for the dedicated barefooter! This latest style has the same classic qualities with a few added features; First, they have a slightly thicker sole making them ideal for walking and hiking longer distances. Second, they have a stylish lace-up look. They are truly a multi-purpose shoe that can be worn for an infinite amount of activities, especially barefoot running/training, outdoor adventure, and travel. They are also quickly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters because of their anti-slip and non-marking sole. If you are craving the feeling of being barefoot but prefer the look of a tie-up shoe, then this is the style for you!! Whether you’re dressing them up or wearing them casually, the Active style is a go-to for any occasion! Aktiv lava black
€139.99
Set yourself up for success with the sporty Aktiv. leguano’s most popular model has all the classic qualities of the traditional barefoot shoe with a few added features. Enjoying a slightly thicker sole and complete with a lace-up finish, these multi-purpose shoes are simply ideal for walking, hiking, running or springing into your lunch break with agility. What’s more, possessing a bespoke anti-slip and non-marking sole these gems are rapidly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters setting their sights on the high seas. So if you’re looking for a quality barefoot experience, with the traditional look of a tie-up shoe, all you have to do is strap yourself in for the ride! Please note that the Aktiv is a unisex model. Aktiv Plus - Black
€159.00
The leguano aktiv plus in lava black: Our all-rounder high-cut model. The leguano aktiv plus offers plenty of freedom to the feet, is ultra comfortable and wearable all year round. The upper part of the fabric provides airy comfort, the leguano-typical sole allows a feather-light feeling on any terrain. The leguano aktiv plus is just as suitable for leisure and outdoor activities as it is for various indoor sports. Wash Bag
€9.95
The leguano laundry net bag protects your leguano's when washing and rinsing. Easy handling thanks to the practical zip. The large-mesh network is permeable to water and mild detergents. Aktiv Green Sole
€99.00 - €139.99
Set yourself up for success with the sporty Aktiv. leguano’s most popular model has all the classic qualities of the traditional barefoot shoe with a few added features. Enjoying a slightly thicker sole and complete with a lace-up finish, these multi-purpose shoes are simply ideal for walking, hiking, running or springing into your lunch break with agility. What’s more, possessing a bespoke anti-slip and non-marking sole these gems are rapidly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters setting their sights on the high seas. So if you’re looking for a quality barefoot experience, with the traditional look of a tie-up shoe, all you have to do is strap yourself in for the ride! Please note that the Aktiv is a unisex model. Aktiv anthracit, blue sole
€139.99
Set yourself up for success with the sporty Aktiv. leguano’s most popular model has all the classic qualities of the traditional barefoot shoe with a few added features. Enjoying a slightly thicker sole and complete with a lace-up finish, these multi-purpose shoes are simply ideal for walking, hiking, running or springing into your lunch break with agility. What’s more, possessing a bespoke anti-slip and non-marking sole these gems are rapidly becoming the shoe of choice for boaters setting their sights on the high seas. So if you’re looking for a quality barefoot experience, with the traditional look of a tie-up shoe, all you have to do is strap yourself in for the ride! Please note that the Aktiv is a unisex model. leguano style maritim
€139.99
Get set for stardom with the jovial leguano Style model! Ready to go in a new navy & red colour combo! Durable, trendy and made with delicately laced pocket holes for extra breathability, this gorgeous pair of barefoot shoes are the jewel in the crown of the leguano collection. With a vibrant colour combination of soft pink, black and grey you’ll be more popular than fresh mangos and watermelon during a heatwave in these classic shoes. What’s more, this particular style has been salt water tested, making them the ideal footwear for your next trip to the beach. Sailing off the shelves faster than french champagne at a wedding, don’t miss your chance to snap up a pair of these beauties! Please note, this style of Leguano shoe fits a bit smaller, we recommend going up one shoe size when ordering. leguano style - peppermint
€139.99
Get set for stardom with the jovial leguano Style model! Now coming in a fresh peppermint lime green outfit! Durable, trendy and made with delicately laced pocket holes for extra breathability, this gorgeous pair of barefoot shoes are the jewel in the crown of the leguano collection. With a vibrant colour combination of soft pink, black and grey you’ll be more popular than fresh mangos and watermelon during a heatwave in these classic shoes. What’s more, this particular style has been salt water tested, making them the ideal footwear for your next trip to the beach. Sailing off the shelves faster than french champagne at a wedding, don’t miss your chance to snap up a pair of these beauties! |