Exercise

Terra Plana Evo – Best Barefoot Running Shoes

December 13, 2010
By Jordan A Smith

I always find it interesting to watch the rise and fall of trends; whether they be fitness, clothing, or hobby related. The so-called “barefoot running” movement has gained a lot of momentum over the last few years, and with good cause. The evidence towards shoes being “bad” for your feet, back, and posture is overwhelming. Many barefoot running enthusiasts call regular shoes “foot coffins” because of how restrictive they are, especially in the toe area. Having your toes restricted negatively affects things such as posture and balance, and this is especially noticeable in older people who have worn restrictive shoes for a life-time. Having said that, the focus of this article is to point out the differences between “barefoot running” and “minimalist running”.

“Barefoot running” and “Minimalist running” are terms that have become intertwined, but that actually signify different things. Barefoot running is, as the name implies, running without any kind of shoes or foot coverings. Barefoot runners generally build up enough callous on their feet to avoid minor cuts and scrapes. Minimalist running, though, is the act of running while wearing shoes that replicate the feeling of being barefoot. These shoes are generally very light, and have thin, flexible soles. One such line of shoes is by a company called Terra Plana; they make their Evo II line of shoes specifically for runners and joggers looking to experience the freedom of barefoot running, but with the protection that a regular shoe offers.

Having trained as a runner and traceur (practitioner of Parkour) for many years, I’ve concluded that wearing minimalist running shoes is really the best way to go. Minimalist running shoes offer the best of the barefoot world, while protecting the wearers feet from sticks, stones, and any other rubbish found in the streets of a city, or on the trails of a forest. The major drawback is generally the cost, averaging between $50-$150 depending on the brand and style of shoe. Having said that, the shoes I’ve tried (Terra Plano Evo IIs) sport incredibly solid construction. Give how long I expect the shoes to last, I’m comfortable paying a bit extra.

Whether you’re a hardened athlete, or an office worker looking to repair your posture from decades of time spent sitting behind a desk, the Evo II’s (and many other minimalist running shoes) are a perfect start. As a piece of parting advice, I propose that you slowly ease into wearing whatever brand of minimalist running shoes you’ve decided on. Minimalist running shoes, by nature, have thin soles, and for most people the transition from heavily padded shoes to shoes with almost no padding can be a bit jarring. Start by wearing the shoes on brief walks, and after a few months your feet will have adjusted and you’ll be able to wear them comfortably all the time.

Hope you enjoyed this article on barefoot running, for more information on Terra Plana and a comprehensive Terra Plana Evo Review please visit our site.

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