I wear orthotics. Can I still wear Zero-drop shoes?
"Barefoot", Zero-drop or minimalist footwear are designed to promote better foot mechanics–naturally. An orthotic is an assistive device to support your foot's function and help you compensate for any biological aberrations. If you have an extremely flat foot, you will need to work into wearing your barefoot footwear gradually, as your muscles will need time to adapt and strengthen. Be sure to talk to your medical team to ensure you're taking all the necessary precautions to protect your health.
Can I use my orthotics in my Barefoot shoes?
Typically, Barefoot and minimalist footwear are designed to be worn directly against the sole of your foot. Putting something between the two would defeat their purpose. If you have a issue where you have been recommended orthotics by a medical professional, please complete that course of treatment before discussing the use of minimalist and barefoot footwear to help you on your journey to great foot health.
My feet hurt hurt after wearing barefoot shoes. Is this normal?
A minor adjustment period is normal while some of the muscles in your feet are getting used to working more for you. This should disappear after a week or two of use. Remember to gradually introduce barefoot footwear to minimise discomfort.
I was told I was a pronator. I was also told by some experts to buy certain types of shoes for motion control. Can Barefoot Shoes help me or should I steer away from them?
For some pronators (people whose feet tend to flatten during full weight–bearing exercise) Barefoot shoes will be too much of an abrupt change in biomechanics. We always recommend what we call a micro progression into barefoot shoes. The too–much–too–soon phenomenon can be a problem for anyone's foot. In the case of heavy pronators, barefoot shoes might not be a wise choice for weight–bearing activities. Pronators will definitely benefit from some focused rehabilitation and foot–specific exercises before wearing any minimalist footwear.
How can I tell if my feet are flat?
While standing, look at the arch on the inside of your foot. If you don't have one, or it is minimal, you have flatter feet. If you are unsure, please contact your health professional.
