Dear Dr. Nick:
I am finding that bare foot and minimalist shoe reviews are failing to mention with any regularity whether or not a shoe model has arch support built in.
I feel that that design element is more important to wearability than the zero drop feature.
As another of your pages focuses upon the apparent rehabilitation of the arch, it would seem to be a possibility that removing arch support may be beneficial toward the similar outcomes.
Sincerely,
Mitchell
A agree, for me the arch support is a very important factor. For instance, I can´t use Merrell minimalist shoes because I feel they have too much support under the arch.
Totally agree. I just tried the new Merrell Bare Access 4 (13mm stack height, 0mm drop), but had to return them because they had way too much arch support–it felt like I was mostly impacting my arch when running, rather than either the midfoot or heel. However, I had no such issue with the Trail Glove (3rd gen), although they’re a bit stiff for minimal shoes–the flexibility of a shoe is also really important..
I would love to get some guidance about minimalist trail running shoes. Clearly, trail shoes need soles with claws for the rocky, or muddy terrain, so where do I start?
Thank you in advance
You do need a sole to prevent you from rocks etc, but you would be surprised at how your foot will adapt to the terrain and just the small amount of rubber beneath the sole of your foot will protect you enough to run. Merrell and Topo Athletic make some great train shoes.
Yes. But it’s a transition. If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis it’s going to take weeks to months to resolve. Don’t be frustrated if you try wearing them and your pain doesn’t resolve. Be patient. Start functioning barefoot at home 30 minutes to an hour a day and it will help strengthen your foot. Be patient. It takes time.
Dear Dr. Nick:
I am finding that bare foot and minimalist shoe reviews are failing to mention with any regularity whether or not a shoe model has arch support built in.
I feel that that design element is more important to wearability than the zero drop feature.
As another of your pages focuses upon the apparent rehabilitation of the arch, it would seem to be a possibility that removing arch support may be beneficial toward the similar outcomes.
Sincerely,
Mitchell
A agree, for me the arch support is a very important factor. For instance, I can´t use Merrell minimalist shoes because I feel they have too much support under the arch.
Totally agree. I just tried the new Merrell Bare Access 4 (13mm stack height, 0mm drop), but had to return them because they had way too much arch support–it felt like I was mostly impacting my arch when running, rather than either the midfoot or heel. However, I had no such issue with the Trail Glove (3rd gen), although they’re a bit stiff for minimal shoes–the flexibility of a shoe is also really important..
I would love to get some guidance about minimalist trail running shoes. Clearly, trail shoes need soles with claws for the rocky, or muddy terrain, so where do I start?
Thank you in advance
You do need a sole to prevent you from rocks etc, but you would be surprised at how your foot will adapt to the terrain and just the small amount of rubber beneath the sole of your foot will protect you enough to run. Merrell and Topo Athletic make some great train shoes.
Dr Nick,
I read that shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop are best for those suffering from plantar fasciitis (PF). Is this true?
Thank you in advance for your insights.
John Marshall
worldsokayestrunner
Yes. But it’s a transition. If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis it’s going to take weeks to months to resolve. Don’t be frustrated if you try wearing them and your pain doesn’t resolve. Be patient. Start functioning barefoot at home 30 minutes to an hour a day and it will help strengthen your foot. Be patient. It takes time.