Barefoot or Conventional: find out which sneaker is best for you.

Conventional sneakers are made for comfort. #barefoot allows you to live your normal life. The question is: is there an ideal model for your feet?

Choosing the ideal sneakers can be a daunting task. Some people prefer comfort, others prefer aesthetics, and others simply choose them because they are in fashion.

While some argue - for example - that our feet do not need shoes to run, others argue that our feet need suitable and comfortable sneakers to run on hard surfaces, such as asphalt.

The thing is, with the #barefootmovement gaining momentum, many people are moving towards this idea of a more natural and normal life.

But the question is always the same: which one is ideal for me?

We invite you to continue reading until the end, and we guarantee that by then, you will have chosen the ideal option for you.

Points to analyze

To make your choice easier, below we will list some features of both sneakers taking into account the analyses of each one.

That is, let's talk about:

The weights;
The formats (front and back);
The dampings;
Protection and durability;

This way, we will have a broad view of the benefits of each one, without subjugating any option.

#barefoot vs. conventional: WEIGHT

There's no denying it, barefoot sneakers are by far the lightest.

They were developed to adapt to the shape of the foot and its structure naturally, reducing the volume of materials in their composition.

In other words, they provide an experience of “almost feeling barefoot” when walking and also reduce energy expenditure, as the sneakers do not have much weight to carry.

On the other hand, conventional sneakers from big brands have been undergoing transformations with the use of technology and studies on the feet.

Through lighter cushioning systems, these new sneakers aim to achieve the same level of lightness as barefoot , which has not happened until now.

What we can understand in this case is that while barefoot provides more lightness in its structure and connects us more to our normal, conventional sneakers still focus on providing comfort with larger structures, even reducing their weight.

#barefoot vs. conventional: THE FORMATS

The shape of barefoot sneakers was developed to respect the natural shape of the feet.

If you look at them, you will notice that the widest part is in the toe area. This is because they respect the spacing of the feet, giving freedom of movement to the toes without compressing them.

Furthermore, there is no heel at all. This can improve posture, balance and the way you step on the ground. It may seem obvious, but the lack of a heel adjusts your step , reducing the impact only on the heel.

Conventional sneakers (when it comes to toe spacing) generally do not respect the spacing of the widest part of the foot. There are models on the market that take this into account, but the vast majority still compress the toes.

These more modern options leave something to be desired when it comes to purchasing, as the aesthetics are not pleasing to the eye.

Furthermore, the excess “heel” in the heel area causes the feet to lose sensitivity to what they are stepping on, modifying the structure of their tread.

It obviously provides more comfort, but using it over time can cause chronic injuries, both to the feet and legs.

#barefoot vs. conventional: CUSHIONING

All barefoot sneaker soles are zero drop, and this characteristic is largely responsible for creating the impression of an “uncomfortable sneaker” .

Which is completely wrong. They literally make you feel more with your feet, putting less interference between you and the surface you're walking on.

Being free from the cushioning effects of barefoot shoes allows for a better sensory connection with the road or trail and increased proprioception.

Feeling each stone beneath your feet provides an additional level of stimulation for the brain - which will react to changing conditions and relay messages to your feet to stabilize.

Conventional sneakers aim to provide greater comfort through super soft soles full of cushioning.

In theory, it is wonderful to use. In practice, when you want agility and control - in a race, for example - it is not the best option.

Not only do these technologies compress upon impact to absorb shock, but the most innovative foams will return to shape quickly and responsively, taking all the “responsibility” off your body for neutralizing the impacts of your steps.

#barefoot vs. conventional: PROTECTION AND DURABILITY

The flexibility of barefoot sneakers gives your feet the freedom to move all your muscles without restrictions.

Just like your hands, your feet have sensitive nerve endings, and barefoot shoes allow you to use your body's natural tools to enhance sensory feedback.

By using the right materials, your steps are protected from any external factors with each step. In addition, the durability of sneakers wears out just like any other shoe, and it all depends on how long you use them and how you take care of them.

Conventional sneakers vary in durability, but protect against impacts and scratches, such as stones and glass.

However, the downside is the weight they add to the shoes. Additionally, excess cushioning in the soles can increase the risk of injury because it results in increased impact loading and stiffness in the legs.

#barefoot vs. conventional: SUMMARY

Finally, our table below shows, in summary, the differences between each sneaker.

And without wanting to influence, it explains by itself why the #barefootmovement has gained so much space in recent times.

	BAREFOOT SNEAKERS	CONVENTIONAL TENNIS SHOES
*WEIGHT*	Lighter	Heavier
*FORMAT*	Respects the natural shape of the foot	Press your fingers together
*DAMPING*	Firm, flexible and zero drop	Cushioned, irregular and rigid
*PROTECTION AND DURABILITY*	Increased sensitivity with long-lasting protection and material	Less sensitivity, with excess protection and long-lasting