Jason (and Trock [another commenter]): Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. It wasn't our intention to belittle or distort the needs of barefoot runners—apologies if that's how it came off to you in the article. In addition to the MT100, there are some recommendations above for current low-support models we recommend, but we hear you that your ideal would be something far more minimalist. It's an area we're investigating and will continue to investigate in the lab, as Sean Murphy mentioned in the Globe article reference above. We appreciate your perspective and will do our best to continue to develop gear that meets the unique needs of runners like you.I was pleased to see New Balance clarify their statement, apologize, and acknowledge the needs of the barefoot and minimalist community. Of the major manufacturers, New Balance is one of two or three that has consistently developed quality "reduced" running shoes. I would love to see them develop a true minimalist shoe. Hats off to you for stepping up to the plate, New Balance!
Monday, February 8, 2010
New Balance Apologizes for Barefoot Comments... they're okay in my book
New Balance recently posted an article regarding barefoot running, which I commented about here. They added this comment to the article:
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Maybe just a little ray of hope that they'll "get it"?
ReplyDeleteMaybe I'll have to reconsider my blog post from last night. ("7 Reasons Why You Should NEVER Run Barefoot") :)
I think they are highly underestemating what an impact the barefoot/minimalist movement will have. Eventually people will catch up on the science, and even if only the runners that become regularly injured switch over then still it will be a large number.
ReplyDeleteThats fantastic that NB had that kind of response! Humility can go a long way.
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