The recent lawsuit that was filed against the Vibram FiveFingers has caused a furor in the running community. As always, there are those who are for running barefoot and against it.

If you have not heard about the news yet, five law firms in Massachusetts alleged that Vibram “used deceptive statements about the health benefits of barefoot running.” Moreover, the lawsuit states that, “given that Defendants’ advertising and marketing equates barefoot running with running in FiveFingers, Defendants uniform deceptive statements about barefoot running are also deceptive statements about Five Fingers.”

If we’ll look at the Vibram FiveFingers website, we can read the “deceptive ads” that the lawsuit pertains to and these are:

• Strengthen muscles in the feet and lower legs
• Improve range of motion in ankles, feet, and toes
• Stimulate neural function, improving balance and agility
• Align the spine and improve posture

Furthermore, the lawsuit also purports that no studies can back up Vibram’s health benefit claims and that it “may increase injury risk as compared to running in conventional running shoes, and even when compared to running barefoot.”

Vibram will of course fight the charges against them. In their website, barefoot running newbies will find a step-by-step guide on how to run in VFFs. The guide contains a warning for runners to change their gait – from landing on their heels to softly landing on the balls of their feet; to start slow and incorporate foot stretching exercises; and that it will probably take 13 weeks up to a year to safely run in VFFs.

As with most companies, Vibram has a disclaimer that warns of an inherent risk and that “such training initiatives may be dangerous if performed incorrectly and may not be appropriate for everyone.”

Although the complainants are not asking for compensation for any personal injury that they may have suffered, they are asking the court to get Vibram to cease their “deceptive” advertising and give back the “premium price” that the customers have paid for their VFFs as well as to cover their attorneys’ fees.

Despite the gravity of this situation, let me redirect you to some comments from indignant barefoot runners which I found a bit funny and yet hold some truth about this whole barefoot running business:

So what are your thoughts about this recent attack against Vibram and indirect jab at barefoot running?

P.S. If you want to read more about the news, you can visit:

News Link 1
News Link 2

The fun sure never stops with kigo footwear even as we say goodbye to the kigo shel and star. Kigo has come out with their 3^rd generation shoes that barefoot enthusiasts call the true minimalist shoes due to their zero-drop, 2mm outsoles.

Introducing the Kigo Flit and the Kigo Drive!

Kigo Flit

Ladies can now easily flutter about in style with the kigo flit. The flit comes in a Mary Jane design that is so light (+/- 4 ounces per shoe) that you can simply leave it on your feet even if you step on a weighing scale. The flit’s anatomical last has been reshaped to better accommodate a human foot which is naturally wider at the forefront giving your toes enough room to flex and move comfortably.

Unlike the kigo curv, the flit has an elastic strap that not only helps it retain its shape but also keeps it snug and fit around your foot. It comes with a removable insole that barefoot lovers can easily strip off to have a more barefoot experience even when they are running errands. Leaving the insoles intact however does not make it less bare and there’s still enough room for your feet.

The flit is also a great traveling companion as it is very light and easy to pack.

Kigo Drive

The kigo drive boasts of the same new features as the flit. It has zero-drop outsoles with removable insoles; a roomier toe box for more toe movements and 2mm outsoles that make the shoes really flexible and light.

What makes the kigo drive unique from the kigo flit and other minimalist footwear are its shape and construction which was designed to enhance one’s balance and propioception that improves your overall performance and posture. The drive comes with the speed lacing system for easy adjustment and fit.

Made with the environment in mind, the kigo flit and the kigo drive sports the traditional fingerprint tread that provides you with adequate traction. You don’t need time to break in these shoes too as they are truly comfortable to use! Thus, if you don’t find it comfortable the first time you wear it, then it’s not the right pair of shoes for you.

These kigos are without a doubt great for casual wear where barefoot is just not acceptable. You can also use these for light activities such as trail walking or hiking.

Feel good with kigos are minimalist shoes that are stylish enough for everyday wear, sturdy enough for athletics and almost as lightweight and flexible as bare.

Hey barefoot enthusiasts! If the recent study on running shoes and going barefoot has left you dumbfounded, don’t fret! Here are three stories that could calm your nerves from putting on running shoes again.

The Biomechanics of Running Barefoot

Running on bare feet has been a rising trend for the past couple of years. While a lot of people have decided to ditch their shoes, a lot of companies have also come up with new shoe designs that target the barefooters or minimalist runners. But the new study that is making the case for running shoes has jabbed at the efficiency of running barefoot.

This article talks about why runners are going barefoot and why it’s more than just energy efficiency. As Robert Gotlin, the director of orthopedic and sports rehabilitation at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City says, it’s all about the biomechanics.

Skeptical Sashen’s Response to the Study

The 3-4% more energy that is said to cost barefoot runners as compared to those who are wearing running shoes is such a miniscule difference that it won’t even matter to most runners. This is according to Steven Sashen, CEO of Invisible Shoes. Moreover, Sashen believes that barefooters pounding on a treadmill and wearing socks would equate to the true barefoot running experience.

The good thing is, Sashen and Dr. Franz, a member of the research team agree on one thing and that is, “people choose to run barefoot for a variety of reasons.”

More on this article here.

The Annual Marathon Research

The 26.2 with Donna The National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer is the only U.S. marathon dedicated solely to raising funds to end breast cancer. But the marathoners have not only helped raised money for breast cancer, they have also helped scientists understand the sport of long-distance running, and its impact on fit, healthy athletes.

Since 2008, thousands of runners have volunteered to provide pertinent information. The first two years or the first phase of the research studied the sodium levels and kidney renal function of marathoners by drawing a sample of their blood before and after the race. The past three years was phase two of the research  and it focused on the relationship of body mass index to injuries and whether the latter is related to weight, height, age and pre-race training exercises.

This year, they have also started studying the types of shoes runners are using and how they land on their feet and whether this makes a difference to avoid injuries. Project lead physician Michael Mohseni said that people tend to land mid-foot when running barefoot and this naturally leads to an effortless bending of the hip, knee and ankle.

You can read more about the Annual Marathon here.

Oh boy, have I got some interesting news for you this week! First off, let’s look at a couple of ladies who have greatly benefited from barefoot running. And later, you will find the interesting results of the latest study that was made on barefoot running!

Karina Pack: No Shoes, No More Orthotics, and No More Back and Knee Pain

Ever since 36 year old Karina Pack was a teenager, she had to use orthotics. These of course hindered her to run naturally as they were clunky which eventually led her to suffer from knee and lower back pain. But seeing a barefoot runner passed her by change that. She decided to give barefoot running a try. After consulting her doctor, she ditched her shoes and ran unshod.

Pack said, “When you first start out, you really notice how much pressure running puts on your feet. You don’t go any faster or further. It’s more about the longevity of the sport. I’d like to run for as long as I can.”

Just after nine months into running without shoes, Pack’s feet and legs have adjusted and she could run without feeling any pain in her back or knee. Her doctor informed her that it did the trick for her and that barefoot running was working to her advantage.

After nine months, Pack could run without back or knee pain. Her legs and feet adjusted.

She went back to her doctor and was informed the barefoot running seemed to be working to her advantage.

Read the full story here.

Kay Lund: FiveFingers Helped My Knee Pain

Due to a bout of knee pain, Kay Lund, a 46 year old runner who has been running since her early 20’s, decided to give Vibram FiveFingers a try. She had to switch from her old shoes to the VFFs and vice versa though for a month just to get used to the shoes. And, even though she is still working up to longer distance running, her knee pain has already subsided.

According to Dr. Ross Leonard, a practicing podiatric in Klamath Falls where Kay lived, minimalist shoes are comfy. He added, “They force you to run differently than conventional shoes, allowing all your body parts to do what they do, making for a well-rounded running experience.”

More of Kay Lund’s story here.

Running Shoes, Physiologically Easier than Barefoot?

A study that was recently conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado in Boulder suggests that wearing running shoes is physiologically easier than barefoot if done in the right circumstances. The study, which involved 12 well-trained male runners with extensive barefoot running experience, found out that barefoot runners use 4% more energy than shod runners making it less efficient.

This led them to believe that since barefoot runners are not wearing any cushioning, the force of the impact needs to be cushioned by something else. And that something else is our legs. It’s important to note however that the researchers only looked at the metabolic efficiency of running barefoot versus wearing shoes and that the health benefits were not included in the study.

In the end, serious racers should consider which one they would rather sacrifice, less mass on their feet or more possible strain on their leg muscles. As for the rest of us, the takeaway from this study is to invest in a slimmed-down trainer. Lighter footwear or minimalist shoes that can provide cushioning can spare our leg muscles from unnecessary strain without the bulky mass that could slow our movement. Dr Franz says this is the physiologically smartest alternative to being bare!

Making the Case for Running Shoes

It’s time to look at what’s going on in the barefoot community outside barefootrunninshoes.org! Here are the top stories for this week.

Prep Your Yard for the Summer

Summer is almost upon us and what better way to enjoy going barefoot than have a beautiful yard where you can tread upon the green grass and take pleasure in the beauty surrounding you. Plus, you can invite your friends over for a barbecue in the yard or a pool party. So, if you’re hard pressed for ideas on how you can prep your yard for the summer, here are four tips that could help you get started.

The Perfect Runner

Niobe Thompson has almost done it all for the love of running. He has traveled to Siberia and Ethiopia and has even run the Canadian Death Race solo. What’s more, he managed to turn his crisis into an exciting CBC television documentary, The Perfect Runner.

The Perfect Runner, which will be featured on the Nature of Things, chronicles where our love for distance running took root. It tracks our evolutionary past and shows how we have dominated the earth because of it.

If you want to know more about this documentary film, you can read more about it here.

Steve Loader’s Unusual Technique

Steve Loader, a local actor in Sheffield who training for the London Marathon, will host a session that will teach runners how to stride out barefoot. This will end with a short barefoot run in Endcliffe Park on March 24. Runners can pay any amount to join and all proceeds will go to the World Wildlife Fund.

For more info, check this out: Steve Loader’s Barefoot Training.

Hello everyone! 2012 seems like a pretty exciting year for barefoot and minimalist runners – from stars that don barefoot shoes in ceremonies after parties to NHL stars trading in their trainers for new “more natural” feeling shoes. We bring you only the latest news! Enjoy!

Shailene Woodley Ditches Her Uncomfortable Footwear

One of the most awaited happenings in Tinsel town are award shows and their after parties. There is just no preventing the excitement and the buzz created by ball gowns and slinky dresses not to mention, the Louboutins, Jimmy Choos and Manolos that complete every glamorous look.

Imagine the surprise everyone had when up and coming star Shailene Woodley of the series “The Descendants” ditched her heels and wore sock-like sneakers that greatly resembled Vibrams to the after party! A lot called it “a pleasant surprise!” Read more here!

NHL Star Mike Cammalleri is the New Face of Adidas Adipure Trainers

Recently traded Calgary Flame NHL star Mike Cammalleri was not an advocate of minimalist shoes. However, when he tried the new Adidas Adipure Trainers, he said that the barely-there shoes gave him a “powerful and primitive” feeling. He now uses the shoes regularly for his training and strongly believes it can make him stronger.

Mark Verstegen, a trainer for some of the world’s top athletes helped designed the shoes. He says that it offers a sock-like environment, which is essential for great mobility to turn on all the muscles and joints in the legs. Check out the full story!

Runners Run During the Winter While Coping with the Cold

“Runner’s Night” is now a popular trend in most cities after being inspired by McDougall’s running barefoot book “Born to Run.” These running enthusiasts brave the Michigan winter and converge for a fun and energetic get together.

They also give out tips for those who are planning to run even in winter with their barefoot shoes. Read more here!

Hey barefoot enthusiasts! Are you ready to get your running fix for today? We are here to bring you the latest and the freshest news off the barefoot running world. Enjoy these top stories and be inspired to run!

The Monkey Man Prefers to Run with Minimalist

Ted McDonald or known as “The Monkey Man” condones minimalist running shoes and would prefer them rather than take advantage of the technological advances in most common running shoes. A self-proclaimed apostle of barefoot running, he believes that going back to the basics of running is the better option.

McDonald suffered from a back problem about a decade ago and has searched for highly effective shoes to offer him relief while running. In vain, he decided to just take off his shoes and walk barefoot. He confesses that when he did, he experienced a painless trek home. Read more about it in this article.

Skora Minimalist Shoes: Are Your Feet Ready for Minimalist Leather Running Shoes?

With the trend of minimalist running rising rapidly, it might take more than just unique, colorful designs to stand out among the throng of barefoot running shoes. After all, despite the debate that raged on for years, a lot of people are returning to the basic way of running – the barefoot way.

Skora intends to release its newest minimalist shoes. Yes, it will have the qualities that one expects from a barefoot running shoe but the upper is an entirely different thing – it is made out of goat leather. Intriguing, right? Especially since running sockless and leather usually equates to blisters! Find out why you should consider SKORA Minimalist Shoes.

Budd-Pieterse Looking for New Challenges

One of the most recognizable names in the running industry, Zola Budd-Pieterse talks about getting back into the running circuit but not to compete but rather to find joy and contentment in running again.

Read all about Zola Budd-Pieterse here.

Hello barefoot buddies! We are here to provide you the latest and the most talked about trends concerning minimalist running. Hopefully, we can get the whole world benefitting from barefoot running in the year 2012!

Environment Friendly Barefoot Running Shoes? Introducing One Moment Shoes!

If you had to choose between buying £85 Vibram FiveFingers shoes, which Scarlett Johansson wore, and a minimalist running shoe that only costs about £8 – which would you prefer? We bet you’re apprehensive about the cheap shoes. But you might be surprised to know that these bright, new, flexible barefoot running shoes from Spanish Company, ONE MOMENT, actually provides an affordable solution for those who cannot afford a pair of Vibrams!

The sole of this new age shoes is just around 2mm thick and is made of 100% all natural materials. This means that this shoe will rot after you discard making it the most eco friendly shoes in the market. Now, that’s not a bad way to save money and the planet while staying healthy, right? Read more about it here.

Dr. Dirk Farrell: Teaching About Barefoot Shoes

Chiropractor Dr. Dirk Farrell just held a workshop in Seattle at Born to Run, The Barefoot Shoe Store. He shared his observations, insights and highlighted the importance of wearing the right shoe, most especially minimalist shoes, when running or even just walking.

He also engaged his audience to do some exercises as well as showed people how instability can be a cause for serious injuries, slower running pace and a lot of pain! Running evangelist, Ted McDonald likewise attended the event and shared his insights about footwear and running.

The Barefoot Run Brigade

If you are curious about barefoot running, you can learn a whole lot in Queenstown’s Studio Pilates and Physiotherapy. Since the popularity of barefoot running and its explosion in the running scene, a lot of people have either been curious or have become avid followers. That is why the studio has thought of holding a four-week course.

This program will help people learn more about barefoot running as well as help raise money for men who are undergoing recovery from their cancer treatment. The focus of the section is not about going out to run but rather on the biomechanics and tips on how to take care of one’s self during running.

It is quite clear by now that the 21st century is the era of barefoot running. And Sockwa, one of the leading creators of barefoot running shoes is just as geared up to welcome the challenges with their innovation as they introduce their all new Sockwa G3 shoes!

Sockwa stays true to their slogan of treading the earth lightly with the new Sockwa G3 which will be out by February 2012. This new army of shoes is all mad with grey sole that does not leave a single mark on where you choose to tread or run on.

Unlike the Sockwa G2, the G3 comes in 5 colors and will be available in 9 different sizes (6-13). You can choose from black, brown, olive, red or yellow – whichever complements your mood or attire regardless of whether you feel like taking off for a run or go on a casual, comfortable walk at the mall or the park. G3 enables you to feel and reap the benefits of natural minimalist sensation wherever you may be at any time!

Since it has a wide range of sizes, any member of the family can enjoy their own G3! It can be a good present for friends or loved ones as well while at the same time encourage them to get on the bandwagon of barefoot running.

The Sockwa G3 is aptly built for your feet and is set to provide you with the thinnest sole on the planet. It only weighs around 2.4 to 3.5 oz which ensures that you will barely feel like you are wearing anything! In fact, it claims that you will feel like you are just wearing a pair of socks albeit it does not look like one at all. Do not worry about protecting your feet since Sockwa products are sturdy and offer the right amount of protection.

The shoes are also easy to carry in case you need to go on a road trip or have to visit a relative or friend outside your hometown. The shoes can be crushed and placed inside your carryon bag without doing any damage to it as it boasts of high durability. If you’ve been running in surfaces that have muddied your G3′s you can simply take it off and wash to clean it! So, whatever the weather you choose to run on, your Sockwa G3 will remain steadfast and keep up with your pace.

The Sockwa G3 will be a good addition to your barefoot running shoes and will provide you with enough balance and stability during your runs. You can pre-order your Sockwa G3 and look forward to running at a whole new level this 2012!

Running is an expression of freedom and nothing exudes the feeling of being free than barefoot running. But who would have thought that a song would be derived from it?

Sarah Betts did!

We were quite surprised when this Cambridge native shared to us her original raw recording of a piano-vocal musical piece entitled “Barefoot Running Shoes.” According to Sarah, barefoot running has given her two things and these are being FREE and HAPPY. And, with this song, she hoped that a lot of people would go and listen to it so that they too could feel what she has felt about minimalist running.

Of course, we were curious and thrilled to know about this inspirational runner and composer. We found out that she is inclined toward the arts such as Philosophy and History of Art plus she’s studying Italian as well. When she does not study, she dabbles with music and she shares that the “Barefoot Running Shoes” song was written when she was just 15 or 16 years old.

We wondered whether there was something deeper to the song but according to Sarah, it does not actually recount any past experiences. Instead, it was borne out of the sheer freedom and happiness that she felt with running barefoot. The activity in itself evolved into ideas and eventually, the words of the song. She added that she was in an unchained and merry mood when she developed the piece.

The recording, which you can listen to here, sounds organic and raw. It is unedited in a way that you can visualize the artist just sitting at home and playing the piano while singing. A breath of fresh air really, compared to the latest bings and bangs of synthesizers and electric beats. In short, it is like barefoot running – natural and uninhibited.

Most of us would think that minimalist shoes and barefoot running is healthy for the body but Sarah Betts proves to us that it is likewise instrumental to a happy and inspired spirit. Perhaps it is indeed time that scientific debate about barefoot running vs. running with trainers be put to rest and we can all start looking at this form of activity as something which meets more than the human eyes.

Hopefully, we can all be inspired like Sarah Betts. We feel grateful for having the chance to be able to share it with other running enthusiasts as well. Let’s all find inspiration to live a healthier life and have a healthier spirit through barefoot running!

Enjoy the song: The Barefoot Running Shoes Song

If you want to learn more Sarah sent us this email about herself and her song:

… You mentioned you wanted to know a little about me and why I wrote this song… well in all honesty there is no one specific event which the song is recounting. I just thought that the idea of running barefoot was quite evocative of a sense of freedom and happiness, and I was in that sort of a mood so I wrote that sort of a song.

My life so far is pretty uneventful so I will keep biography succinct. I was born in Cambridge and have lived here all my life. I have just finished sixth form where I studied Philosophy, Art, History of Art, and Italian. I enjoy music in my spare time and have been writing songs since my early teens and I wrote “Barefoot running shoes” when I was 15 or 16 (I can’t quite remember). My family have been suggesting I record some of these songs for ages (for the purposes of entertaining the grandparents) and I have only just got round to it. I have made 6 recordings so far and there are about 10 left to do.