Switching to Barefoot Shoes? Here’s What You Need to Know.

You’ve decided to transition to barefoot shoes and reawaken your feet from their narrow-toed-shoe hibernation and you’re desperate to reap the benefits as soon as possible. 

Look, we’re as excited as you that you're diving into the world of natural, healthy foot-shaped shoes but we’re here to advise you not to get all gung-ho about it. 

If your feet have been locked away in regular shoes your entire life, transitioning to barefoot shoes might take a little time. You wouldn’t jump straight into running a marathon or deadlifting 300lb straight off the bat, in the same way, freeing your feet is a journey.

Don’t worry though, we’re here to help you on the way to more foot FREEDOM by sharing how to make the transition a sustainable and enjoyable one.

Don’t get ahead of yourself.

The mistake most people make when switching to barefoot shoes is taking an all-or-nothing approach. They toss all their old shoes in the trash and switch them out for barefoot versions from the get-go.

This is a recipe for misery! 

Those muscles you never knew existed need time to get used to this new way of interacting with the ground. 

Take a breath friend, and try this instead…..

You’ve bailed your toes out of their shoe-shaped prisons now what?

So, it’s day one. You’ve received your first pair of barefoot shoes and thrown them straight onto your feet.

When you take your first steps in minimalist shoes expect it to feel like you’ve forgotten to put your shoes on altogether. You might find it weird that you can feel every pebble and crack in the pavement. 

Be assured this is a good sign! It means your feet have finally awoken from their long-dormant slumber. They’ve spent years cushioned and confined so new sensations during those first tentative steps are to be expected.

You’re meant to feel more. 

Over time as you get used to wearing barefoot shoes this foot-to-brain feedback won’t be quite so in your face.

Rome wasn’t built in a day - take the transition slow and steady.

We get it, you want to experience the benefits of being barefoot as quickly as possible. But, to get the most out of them we recommend pacing your transition into the world of minimalist shoes. 

Start by wearing your new Splays for 30 minutes a day around the house, garden, or neighborhood. Then build from there.

As you increase your barefoot shoe time remember to check in with your feet. They are after all your newest friends. They’ll let you know when they’ve had enough. And don’t worry if you need to slip back into your old shoes for a while. You have not failed, it’s all part of the process.

So don’t toss your ol’ faithful toe squashers into the trash just yet. 

Have patience, friend!

It’s taken years of suffocating your toes in questionably designed footwear for them to get into their current state. Your bunions didn’t grow overnight and your feet didn’t just suddenly forget what the ground feels like. So it’ll take a little patience to undo these things.

Your feet and lower body will be working in new and uncharted ways. Like all good things, expect building up your foot strength to take time. 

Your feet might feel more tired, to begin with. Hang in there, those muscles you never knew existed will start pulling their weight with practice. 

Suddenly you'll be experiencing less pain in your ankles, knees, hips, and back. Along with all the other benefits that come with going barefoot which you can read about HERE.

So what we’re saying is take a more laid-back approach to the transition, this isn’t a sprint it’s a marathon.

You’re not a masochist, take it easy.

Don’t go pushing through discomfort. There’s no gold medal to be won,  you want to ease yourself into the transition. Choose the easy road by doing the following:

• Adding strength and stretching exercises for the feet and calves to your daily routine as you transition.

• Stick to smoother and softer surfaces. This will help you as you take your first foray into barefoot shoes. Lay off those rugged trails till your feet are used to this new way of interacting with the ground.

• Find a pair of shoes that make you feel good, match your style, and you want to put on your feet. You shouldn’t have to trade your identity, style, or vibe for healthier feet. That’s why at Splay style comes first- or what’s the point?!

• Listen to your body. If your feet are feeling funky, give them rest or cut back on how long you’re wearing your barefoot shoes. Your feet will get stronger much quicker if you do.

Much like life, going barefoot is a journey, enjoy it.

Stronger healthier feet aren't born overnight. But they are worth working towards because the benefits are huge.  

Approach your transition to barefoot shoes with gentle perseverance and you’ll enjoy the great foot reawakening a whole lot more.

If you’re ready to FREE your feet and wondering where to start our most popular styles for those new to barefoot shoes are our FREESTLYE 2.0  and our STREETSTYLE Slip-on.

Still need help or have questions.