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:
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Shoe Review: Terra Plana Vivo Barefoot Aqua
I have to preface any shoe review with this disclaimer: I’m a barefoot runner. I only use shoes in extreme temperatures, extremely rugged terrain, or when running indoors at an establishment that disallows barefoot running (like my local YMCA.) I do wear shoes at work (I’m a high school teacher), during the winter, and when frequenting most businesses. As such, I am always searching for shoes that allow me to run in extreme conditions and wear casually.
I’ve known about Terra Plana’s Vivo Barefoot line for some time. As a teacher of barefoot and minimalist shoe running, I’ve done a lot of research on shoe options. However, I never tried them myself. I’m a pretty skeptical person. Their claim to be a “barefoot shoe” seemed to be akin to Sylvia Browne’s claim of being able to see peoples’ future… it’s just clever marketing to bilk money from unsuspecting saps. I was contacted by the Vivo Barefoot USA offices to try a pair of their Aqua shoes. While I was very skeptical, I was curious to see if their claims were even remotely truthful.
When the box arrived, I was pretty excited. I had read a few reviews online, but most came from people that had a preference for running in minimalist shoes. There weren’t many comments from runners that ran almost exclusively barefoot. This would be a fun experiment!
I opened the plain gray box. Inside were two fabric bags containing each individual shoe. This packaging was a nice touch. I took the left shoe out of its bag. I didn’t know what color I would receive (they come in a variety of colors, some of which would not be appropriate for my school.) I was relieved to see the dark brown model.
My first impression was not necessarily positive. The shoe was slightly heavier than I anticipated. I read that some people enjoyed running in Aquas. As a barefoot runner, the weight of a shoe is critical. For comparison, they were about as heavy as my Vibram KSOs and slightly heavier than my Saucony Kilkennys. The Aquas weighed about half as much as my traditional dress shoes I sometimes wore at work. Also, I found the sole to be much stiffer than I anticipated. It could easily be bent, twisted, and rolled into any shape, but my preference had always been extremely flexible soles.
On a positive note, the shoes looked very cool. The style was definitely better than any minimalist casual shoe on the market today. Also, the sole was very thin… maybe a few millimeters throughout. The heel and forefoot were the same height, a necessity for any minimalist shoe. The workmanship was top-notch; neither shoe had a single flaw. It is obvious that quality control is important to Terra Plana. The shoes were wider than any casual shoe I found, which is usually a kiss of death for other minimalist shoes. So how did they feel?
After carefully inspecting each shoe, I put them on and walked around my house. To say I was amazed would be an understatement of epic proportions. They felt amazing! At first, it was hard to describe the experience. Most minimalist shoes I tried seem to be designed to hug your feet to move with the natural motions of the foot. It is as if they are designed to be sock-like. The result is always some degree of awkwardness as the materials of the shoe cannot work in perfect unison with the complex motions of the foot. The Aquas were different. It felt as if my feet were working in the exact same way as they would if I were walking barefoot. I could feel my toes splaying with each step as the wide toe box allowed for this natural movement. This feeling was unique; it is the first shoe I have tried that allows for freedom within the shoe, yet does not feel “loose” or sloppy.”
The weight of the shoe was not an issue while walking around. The shoes felt lighter than I had originally anticipated. I’m not quite sure what to attribute this to other than the fit. I had used a pair of driving moccasins prior to the Aquas. They are a lighter shoe, but yet feel heavier in actual use.
The purpose of the stiffness of the sole, which I was concerned about initially, became apparent. It allowed my foot to move freely within the shoe without being impeded by the floppiness of the sole. I was also surprised that the sole felt much more flexible on my foot than it did in my hands. As I later read, the soles contain a layer of Kevlar-like material to offer protection against punctures.
After thirty minutes of walking, skipping, and jumping around my house (hey, it works well as my testing criteria!), I was convinced of the claims made by Terra Plana. This shoe really did work as advertised. If only I could say the same about Sylvia Browne…
The true test came a few hours later when I wore the shoes for a run around the block. Initially, I did not wear socks and removed the insole. Running was okay, but not as impressive as walking. The shoes were a bit too heavy for my tastes. Aside from that, they continued to function in the same way as walking. I could feel my feet moving within the shoe just as they do when running barefoot. The sole was a bit too unresponsive for me, also. I couldn’t “feel” the ground as well as I like. This will always be an issue with any minimalist running shoe. As a barefoot runner, my preference is to have nothing between my foot and the ground. The trade-off is protection. To really test the shoes, I ran on an extremely technical trail near my home. I could easily run over any obstacle (rocks, roots, chunks of sharp ice, etc.) without problem. What the shoe lacked in ground feel, it made up for in protection.
Since most runners are not barefoot runners, I gave the shoes to two runner friends to test out. Both are in the very early stages of transitioning to barefoot and minimalist shoe running. Both LOVED the shoe for running. It was obvious they appreciated the degree of protection offered by the shoe coupled with the design that allowed for natural foot movement. As a running shoe, hard-core barefoot runners will probably shy away from the Aqua. New barefoot and minimalist shoe runners would likely find the Aqua to be an excellent running shoe option.
Over the next four weeks, I wore this shoe daily. It performed flawlessly as a daily “work shoe.” The lack of a raised heel and design that allowed my foot to move as intended makes this an ideal casual shoe. As time passed, I actually experienced less aches and pains from standing and walking at work. I would confidently rank this shoe as the best casual shoe I have ever worn. I always recommend my barefoot running students spend as much non-running time barefoot as possible. This shoe would be a perfect solution for occasions when my students must wear shoes.
As a running shoe, it would be ideal for new barefoot or minimalist shoe runners. More experienced barefoot runners may prefer a more minimal running shoe. Terra Plana is preparing to release their EVO running shoe, around March of 2010. If the EVO is designed based on the same principles of the Aqua, it would be hard to imagine it wouldn’t be a runaway success.
Here are a handful of other issues:
• Cost- these shoes are expensive compared to the other minimalist options available. It retails for $150. This is what initially prevented me from seriously considering this shoe as a minimalist option. I don’t have a problem spending more for quality products, but my skepticism prevented me from spending the money on one pair of shoes. After testing these shoes, I would not hesitate to spend $150 for these shoes. Truth be told, I think they are under-priced for the value. Not only are they the only causal shoe I’ve tried that acts as advertised, the design, construction, and durability are impeccable.
• Fit- My Aquas are EU size 45, which is larger than what I would normally wear. I would recommend ordering one size larger than your standard size.
• Traction- Traction on dry and wet surfaces is very good. Traction on ice is bad. I live in Michigan, so I spend a good deal of time walking on icy sidewalks. The Aquas perform very well on every surface except ice.
• The company- The more I researched Terra Plana, the more impressed I became. They are a socially and environmentally-responsible company that is deeply concerned with producing quality products that meet the demand of their intended audience. Their customer service is second-to-none. I anticipate this company will grow by leaps and bounds as the barefoot/minimalist shoe movement takes off… I really hope the company doesn’t lose this “family” feel. Even though Terra Plana is a major player in the world of shoes, they do not have the ‘faceless behemoth” feel of corporations such as Nike. I won’t go into more detail for brevity’s sake, but you can read more about the company here: http://www.terraplana.com/vivobarefoot.php.
Conclusion
If you are a current or aspiring barefoot runner looking for a casual shoe for work or play, this shoe is second to none. After using this shoe for a month, I couldn’t even recommend an alternative to this shoe. It will allow you to develop and strengthen your feet and legs during non-running times by allowing natural foot movement. The cost is of this shoe is a value for the quality and function of the product. If you are a new barefoot or minimalist shoe runner, the Aqua could be a viable option as a running shoe. I am eager to test other models from Terra Plana’s Vivo Barefoot division. Some other styles could easily be used for business or business/casual dress, and the EVO promises to be a quality minimalist running shoe. Terra Plana also produces an excellent line of women’s shoes. After hearing me rave about these shoes, my wife is looking forward to trying the woman’s line. If you have any questions about the Aquas, please email me at robillardj “at” gmail “dot” com.
I’ve known about Terra Plana’s Vivo Barefoot line for some time. As a teacher of barefoot and minimalist shoe running, I’ve done a lot of research on shoe options. However, I never tried them myself. I’m a pretty skeptical person. Their claim to be a “barefoot shoe” seemed to be akin to Sylvia Browne’s claim of being able to see peoples’ future… it’s just clever marketing to bilk money from unsuspecting saps. I was contacted by the Vivo Barefoot USA offices to try a pair of their Aqua shoes. While I was very skeptical, I was curious to see if their claims were even remotely truthful.
When the box arrived, I was pretty excited. I had read a few reviews online, but most came from people that had a preference for running in minimalist shoes. There weren’t many comments from runners that ran almost exclusively barefoot. This would be a fun experiment!
I opened the plain gray box. Inside were two fabric bags containing each individual shoe. This packaging was a nice touch. I took the left shoe out of its bag. I didn’t know what color I would receive (they come in a variety of colors, some of which would not be appropriate for my school.) I was relieved to see the dark brown model.
On a positive note, the shoes looked very cool. The style was definitely better than any minimalist casual shoe on the market today. Also, the sole was very thin… maybe a few millimeters throughout. The heel and forefoot were the same height, a necessity for any minimalist shoe. The workmanship was top-notch; neither shoe had a single flaw. It is obvious that quality control is important to Terra Plana. The shoes were wider than any casual shoe I found, which is usually a kiss of death for other minimalist shoes. So how did they feel?
After carefully inspecting each shoe, I put them on and walked around my house. To say I was amazed would be an understatement of epic proportions. They felt amazing! At first, it was hard to describe the experience. Most minimalist shoes I tried seem to be designed to hug your feet to move with the natural motions of the foot. It is as if they are designed to be sock-like. The result is always some degree of awkwardness as the materials of the shoe cannot work in perfect unison with the complex motions of the foot. The Aquas were different. It felt as if my feet were working in the exact same way as they would if I were walking barefoot. I could feel my toes splaying with each step as the wide toe box allowed for this natural movement. This feeling was unique; it is the first shoe I have tried that allows for freedom within the shoe, yet does not feel “loose” or sloppy.”
The weight of the shoe was not an issue while walking around. The shoes felt lighter than I had originally anticipated. I’m not quite sure what to attribute this to other than the fit. I had used a pair of driving moccasins prior to the Aquas. They are a lighter shoe, but yet feel heavier in actual use.
The purpose of the stiffness of the sole, which I was concerned about initially, became apparent. It allowed my foot to move freely within the shoe without being impeded by the floppiness of the sole. I was also surprised that the sole felt much more flexible on my foot than it did in my hands. As I later read, the soles contain a layer of Kevlar-like material to offer protection against punctures.
After thirty minutes of walking, skipping, and jumping around my house (hey, it works well as my testing criteria!), I was convinced of the claims made by Terra Plana. This shoe really did work as advertised. If only I could say the same about Sylvia Browne…
The true test came a few hours later when I wore the shoes for a run around the block. Initially, I did not wear socks and removed the insole. Running was okay, but not as impressive as walking. The shoes were a bit too heavy for my tastes. Aside from that, they continued to function in the same way as walking. I could feel my feet moving within the shoe just as they do when running barefoot. The sole was a bit too unresponsive for me, also. I couldn’t “feel” the ground as well as I like. This will always be an issue with any minimalist running shoe. As a barefoot runner, my preference is to have nothing between my foot and the ground. The trade-off is protection. To really test the shoes, I ran on an extremely technical trail near my home. I could easily run over any obstacle (rocks, roots, chunks of sharp ice, etc.) without problem. What the shoe lacked in ground feel, it made up for in protection.
Since most runners are not barefoot runners, I gave the shoes to two runner friends to test out. Both are in the very early stages of transitioning to barefoot and minimalist shoe running. Both LOVED the shoe for running. It was obvious they appreciated the degree of protection offered by the shoe coupled with the design that allowed for natural foot movement. As a running shoe, hard-core barefoot runners will probably shy away from the Aqua. New barefoot and minimalist shoe runners would likely find the Aqua to be an excellent running shoe option.
Over the next four weeks, I wore this shoe daily. It performed flawlessly as a daily “work shoe.” The lack of a raised heel and design that allowed my foot to move as intended makes this an ideal casual shoe. As time passed, I actually experienced less aches and pains from standing and walking at work. I would confidently rank this shoe as the best casual shoe I have ever worn. I always recommend my barefoot running students spend as much non-running time barefoot as possible. This shoe would be a perfect solution for occasions when my students must wear shoes.
As a running shoe, it would be ideal for new barefoot or minimalist shoe runners. More experienced barefoot runners may prefer a more minimal running shoe. Terra Plana is preparing to release their EVO running shoe, around March of 2010. If the EVO is designed based on the same principles of the Aqua, it would be hard to imagine it wouldn’t be a runaway success.
Here are a handful of other issues:
• Cost- these shoes are expensive compared to the other minimalist options available. It retails for $150. This is what initially prevented me from seriously considering this shoe as a minimalist option. I don’t have a problem spending more for quality products, but my skepticism prevented me from spending the money on one pair of shoes. After testing these shoes, I would not hesitate to spend $150 for these shoes. Truth be told, I think they are under-priced for the value. Not only are they the only causal shoe I’ve tried that acts as advertised, the design, construction, and durability are impeccable.
• Fit- My Aquas are EU size 45, which is larger than what I would normally wear. I would recommend ordering one size larger than your standard size.
• Traction- Traction on dry and wet surfaces is very good. Traction on ice is bad. I live in Michigan, so I spend a good deal of time walking on icy sidewalks. The Aquas perform very well on every surface except ice.
• The company- The more I researched Terra Plana, the more impressed I became. They are a socially and environmentally-responsible company that is deeply concerned with producing quality products that meet the demand of their intended audience. Their customer service is second-to-none. I anticipate this company will grow by leaps and bounds as the barefoot/minimalist shoe movement takes off… I really hope the company doesn’t lose this “family” feel. Even though Terra Plana is a major player in the world of shoes, they do not have the ‘faceless behemoth” feel of corporations such as Nike. I won’t go into more detail for brevity’s sake, but you can read more about the company here: http://www.terraplana.com/vivobarefoot.php.
Conclusion
If you are a current or aspiring barefoot runner looking for a casual shoe for work or play, this shoe is second to none. After using this shoe for a month, I couldn’t even recommend an alternative to this shoe. It will allow you to develop and strengthen your feet and legs during non-running times by allowing natural foot movement. The cost is of this shoe is a value for the quality and function of the product. If you are a new barefoot or minimalist shoe runner, the Aqua could be a viable option as a running shoe. I am eager to test other models from Terra Plana’s Vivo Barefoot division. Some other styles could easily be used for business or business/casual dress, and the EVO promises to be a quality minimalist running shoe. Terra Plana also produces an excellent line of women’s shoes. After hearing me rave about these shoes, my wife is looking forward to trying the woman’s line. If you have any questions about the Aquas, please email me at robillardj “at” gmail “dot” com.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Do I Have To Run Barefoot? The case for minimalist running shoes
The following is an excerpt from my soon-to-be-printed barefoot running book:
Do I Have To Run Barefoot?
While I would recommend barefoot running for all runners, it is not necessary to run barefoot full-time. In fact, running in minimalist or even reduced running shoes will net many of the same benefits of barefoot running. Research is still being conducted to determine what exactly causes the benefits of barefoot running, but many speculate the relaxed, midfoot gait is primarily responsible for the positive effects of barefoot running. Based on anecdotal evidence, minimalist shoe running is a much healthier alternative to traditional cushioned motion-control running shoes. In essence, minimalist shoes help the foot work as it was intended to work. The more minimal the shoe, the greater the benefit. If you do not intend on going barefoot full-time, this book can still help you become a better runner.
I recommend all runners learn to run barefoot prior to adding minimalist shoes into your training routine. Learning to run barefoot first will allow you to learn good form and strengthen your feet, legs, and other anatomy to help prevent injuries. It is possible to learn to run in minimalist shoes first, but the lack of tactile sensation with the ground will interfere with the process.
© 2010 Jason Robillard. All rights reserved.
Do I Have To Run Barefoot?
While I would recommend barefoot running for all runners, it is not necessary to run barefoot full-time. In fact, running in minimalist or even reduced running shoes will net many of the same benefits of barefoot running. Research is still being conducted to determine what exactly causes the benefits of barefoot running, but many speculate the relaxed, midfoot gait is primarily responsible for the positive effects of barefoot running. Based on anecdotal evidence, minimalist shoe running is a much healthier alternative to traditional cushioned motion-control running shoes. In essence, minimalist shoes help the foot work as it was intended to work. The more minimal the shoe, the greater the benefit. If you do not intend on going barefoot full-time, this book can still help you become a better runner.
I recommend all runners learn to run barefoot prior to adding minimalist shoes into your training routine. Learning to run barefoot first will allow you to learn good form and strengthen your feet, legs, and other anatomy to help prevent injuries. It is possible to learn to run in minimalist shoes first, but the lack of tactile sensation with the ground will interfere with the process.
© 2010 Jason Robillard. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Barefoot Running Workshop in Boston Area!
The Boston Barefoot Runners will be hosting two workshops in the metro Boston area in the near future. Here are the details:
Want to learn how to run barefoot safely and gently? Here’s your chance.The Metro Boston Barefoot Runners—who have been running barefoot on area roads for over 13 years (including more than 250 5Ks and 10Ks), and have been subjects in the ongoing running research of Dr. Dan Lieberman (featured in the bestselling “Born to Run”) — are hosting two indoor Barefoot Running workshops in Cambridge, MA.If you are new to barefoot running or have some experience and want to ensure that your technique is both correct and safe, then you’ll want to sign up for one of these two free workshops. Both will offer the same information on how to learn to run gently, how to avoid injury, and both will briefly cover minimalist footwear. Both will be fun! We guarantee it, or your money back! (Oh yes, the workshops are free.)The workshops will take place inside and last just 1 hour. We will be moving the workshops outdoors in the Spring. What: Metro Boston Barefoot Runners WorkshopWhen: Saturday, February 27 and Saturday, March 20 both from 3PM to 4PM.Where: First Congregational Church, 11 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Please sign up here:
http://www.metrobostonbarefootrunners.org/Workshops_YQOB.html
Want to learn how to run barefoot safely and gently? Here’s your chance.The Metro Boston Barefoot Runners—who have been running barefoot on area roads for over 13 years (including more than 250 5Ks and 10Ks), and have been subjects in the ongoing running research of Dr. Dan Lieberman (featured in the bestselling “Born to Run”) — are hosting two indoor Barefoot Running workshops in Cambridge, MA.If you are new to barefoot running or have some experience and want to ensure that your technique is both correct and safe, then you’ll want to sign up for one of these two free workshops. Both will offer the same information on how to learn to run gently, how to avoid injury, and both will briefly cover minimalist footwear. Both will be fun! We guarantee it, or your money back! (Oh yes, the workshops are free.)The workshops will take place inside and last just 1 hour. We will be moving the workshops outdoors in the Spring. What: Metro Boston Barefoot Runners WorkshopWhen: Saturday, February 27 and Saturday, March 20 both from 3PM to 4PM.Where: First Congregational Church, 11 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Please sign up here:
http://www.metrobostonbarefootrunners.org/Workshops_YQOB.html
Monday, February 1, 2010
The Anti-Barefoot Movement... bad for running
For those with their figurative ears to the tracks of the barefoot running scene, a new website as sprung up to "debunk" barefoot running. While the author or authors chose not to reveal their name OR register the site without anonymous cloaking, we do know the site was registered a few days ago. They immediately displayed a Road Runner Sports banner. While it would be presumptuous to make assumptions, I think it would be relatively safe to assume we know the author or authors' affiliation.
This is a sad day for running. One of the elements of this great sport that I find most attractive is the camaraderie of my fellow runners. I feel a genuine connection to everyone that is willing to persevere through races of any distance. You guys are my brothers. It does not matter if you choose to wear shoes or not... we are in this together. Shame on those that choose to drive a wedge through the running community.
This is a sad day for running. One of the elements of this great sport that I find most attractive is the camaraderie of my fellow runners. I feel a genuine connection to everyone that is willing to persevere through races of any distance. You guys are my brothers. It does not matter if you choose to wear shoes or not... we are in this together. Shame on those that choose to drive a wedge through the running community.
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