On the Market: the use of barefoot shoes, laid bare

However, barefoot shoes, designed to mimic the experience of natural foot movement, have grown in popularity due to their potential benefits for foot health and movement. According to the study “The Effect of Barefoot and Minimalist Shoe Running on Injury Rates...” from the Journal of Sport and Health Science, barefoot shoes offer a number of advantages; for instance, the way they promote natural foot mechanics. Traditional shoes with cushioned heels and arch support are said to interfere with the foot’s natural motion, potentially leading to muscle atrophy and improper gait patterns.

On the other hand (or foot), the lack of cushioning and support can lead to increased stress on the foot and lower limb muscles, so gradual adaptation is key to minimizing these risks.

Unlike conventional shoes, which often have raised heels and rigid soles, barefoot shoes typically feature a flat, flexible design that promotes better balance, posture, and foot alignment.

All that being said, how can you identify a barefoot shoe? Unlike conventional shoes, which often have raised heels and rigid soles, barefoot shoes typically feature a flat, flexible design that promotes better balance, posture, and foot alignment. One type you'll have probably seen, out on running trails for instance, are the Vibram FiveFingers toe shoes, the ones that look like rubbery mannequin feet. But one brand in Estonia — No(N)s — has taken its own no-nonsense approach, offering handcrafted barefoot shoes that focus on natural movement, sustainability, and foot health (based on orthopedists’ and physiotherapists’ research) without sacrificing durability or style.