Barefoot shoes have emerged as a popular alternative for those seeking a more natural running and walking experience. But how much of the hype is supported by scientific evidence? In this article, we synthesize research findings from various studies to provide a better picture of the benefits and potential drawbacks of barefoot footwear. Disclaimer: While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the studies referenced, this content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any question ..read more

The barefoot shoe market has seen an unprecedented surge in interest and sales over recent years, reflecting a broader trend towards minimalism and natural health practices in global consumer behaviors.  In this article, we will explore the rapid growth of the barefoot shoe market, analyzing the key factors driving its expansion and the trends shaping its future. We’ll look into some statistics, such as market size projections, and the rising popularity of barefoot shoes, supported by both sales data and online search trends. Additionally, we’ll highlight the top players in the industry—r ..read more

Are you in search of the perfect pair of shoes, but feeling overwhelmed by the countless options available? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make the right choice. Whether you're a fashionista on the prowl for the latest trends, an athlete seeking performance-enhancing sneakers, or a busy professional in need of comfortable yet stylish footwear, we've got you covered. From understanding your unique foot shape to deciphering the various shoe materials and styles, we'll walk you through every step of the decision-making process ..read more

Every barefoot journey begins with a single step, but for some, the journey ends with a sore foot, an injury, or just downright disappointment. Don't get us wrong; if we didn't love barefoot shoes, we wouldn't be here. However, every foot is unique, and barefoot shoes can vary in how they meet individual needs. It's important to make the right choice, especially if it's your first time. You're going to need a period of adjustment before you go full-on, and that goes double for our beloved Australia, with its huge variety of challenging outdoor environments. A little protection on your main tra ..read more

Chunky trainers just don't feel right when you're stepping around gym equipment, especially if it's in a space that you've put together in your home. If you're still clunking your way around the gym in running shoes, it's time you checked out the barefoot training shoe option. If you live in Australia, the chances are your friends have already told you all about the benefits of a good set of barefoot shoes for working out. But if they haven't, you always can be the first to try them out and spread the word. Before you rush out to buy your first pair, you'll need to take some time to figure out ..read more

Barefoot shoes have been around since the early 50s when Japanese runner Shigeki Tanaka won the Boston Marathon in 1951, wearing only canvas shoes that were little more than socks. It’s also no secret that we Australians love going barefoot so much that even the BBC commented on it in a news item in 2022. At Ozbarefoot, we love the look and feel, but we're all about the evidence too. Today, we'll take a look at the pros and cons of flexible barefoot shoes for gym exercise and whether you should always have a pair in your gym bag or if it's one place where you're better off training with s ..read more

 In recent years, barefoot shoes have taken Australia by storm, inspiring a new wave of interest in foot wellness. Despite this, some people still hold onto the belief that barefoot shoes are unfashionable or “abnormal”-looking. This couldn’t be further from the truth - nowadays, there’s an incredible range of good-looking and stylish barefoot shoes to suit every taste and preference. In this article, we’ve curated some of the best options for casual, everyday wear, proving that you can care for your feet while looking fantastic to boot (pun intended!). What makes a good-looking barefoot ..read more

If you're an avid hiker, there's a good chance you have a pair of sturdy hiking boots. These tend to come with ultra-thick and stiff soles, ankle support, and perhaps even a hard-capped toe. Despite this being the norm, more and more hikers are turning this standard on its head and opting for a more lightweight option: barefoot hiking shoes. Barefoot shoes for hiking might sound like an oxymoron, but it's not! The world of barefoot shoes has been rapidly expanding in recent years to include models designed for practically all environments and activities, and hiking is no exception. Keep readin ..read more

Bunions are one of the most common foot issues in Australia. Experts estimate that up to a third of adult Australians suffer from them with the prevalence being more concentrated with older age (1). They can be painful, unsightly, and most detrimental of all, they can be debilitating. Once they become uncomfortable, people with bunions are less likely to engage in everyday activities like exercise or even walking, and this can rapidly decrease their health and overall quality of life. Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not int ..read more

Did you know flat feet are incredibly common? Most sources state that anywhere from 20-30% of people have flat feet (1). Although most people think having flat feet means they're doomed to wear restrictive orthotics for the rest of their lives, this isn't necessarily the case. People with flat feet can very often have great results from wearing minimalist shoes. There's a lot of confusion around foot health in general and more fear surrounding the topic of flat feet than there needs to be. Flat feet are often just a variation of normal. Foot arches fall along a spectrum of flat to highly arche ..read more