Footwear
We wholeheartedly promote going barefoot instead of wearing shoes, but there are times when wearing footwear is more prudent. Unfortunately, many businesses or venues still prohibit their patrons and employees from going barefoot. Just like gloves are tools to protect our hands from recognizable risks, wearing protective footwear is sometimes the best choice. (related: "Shoes are Tools") This especially holds true for those with medical conditions like diabetes, peripheral neuropathy or Raynaud's Syndrome.
What does The Primalfoot Alliance recommend in these various situations?
Get Primal With Your Footwear
Primal footwear (sometimes called "minimalist" or "barefoot" shoes) is the best option when going barefoot isn't acceptable. It allows your feet to be feet first. That means your feet are generally able to function naturally instead of being locked inside rigid, unhealthy shoes that do all of the work.
Generally, primal footwear...
- is lightweight and breathable.
- is flexible and adjustable.
- has a very thin, flexible, flat sole.
- does not have a raised heel.
- lacks arch support.
- has a wide toe box.
We realize that most shoes won't completely fit everything on this list. Just remember that the idea is to wear shoes or sandals that have as many of these characteristics as possible. If you must wear footwear, try to add as little to your feet as necessary to get the job done.
It's also important that you slowly transition into this kind of footwear. If your feet are used to depending on regular, "supportive" shoes to do their job, it's going to take some time for them to adjust to a more natural way of functioning.
Examples of Primal Footwear
Many kinds of footwear exist today that can be considered primal. Some have been specifically designed to be that way and others just happen to meet those characteristics. Either way, they'll be better for your feet when you can't go barefoot.
Some common "regular" footwear that tends to be primal are:
- Mocassins (soft-soled)
- "Ballerina" flats
- Flip flops (thin-soled)
- Water shoes
- "Gladiator" sandals (thin-soled)
- Huarache-style sandals
- Uggs-like boots
- Thin-soled sneakers
- Boxing/wrestling/driving boots
When Primal Footwear Just Won't Do
For optimal foot health and comfort, non-primal shoes like work boots and high heels should be worn only for specific reasons and only for as little time as necessary. Examples: Steel-toed boots might be prudent at a construction site, but should be removed to drive home. High heels may be part of a bridesmaid's look for a wedding ceremony and photos, but can be taken off for the reception.
What to Avoid Whenever Possible
Some footwear just does not play well with feet at all. You know what we're talking about. They squish your toes together, make your feet sweat terribly and/or just make you cringe at the thought of having to wear them. Some of these shoes may be marketed as healthy, but completely block your feet from functioning primally. No matter how stylish or well-marketed shoes like this are, we recommend that you do not use footwear that...
- makes you feel unsafe walking in them.
- causes pain in your feet and/or toes.
- creates blisters every time you wear them.
- is very rigid and inflexible.
- has a very narrow width.
- squeezes your toes together.
- has an elevated heel.
- gets more narrow in any way as it reaches the ground.
- alters your walking gait so much that you feel "slower."
- has a thick, rocker bottom and claims to "tone" your legs.
- are designed to have wheels in the soles.
