Comparison: Traditional Footwear vs Barefoot

In this article we will compare a traditional model with a barefoot model. See all the differences

The barefoot model we see in the image is from the brand coqueflex and model: Micropelle 15523. You can see it in blue, white and purple in the link below: https://felipeshoes.com/en/kids_trainers/76-micropelle-15523.html

The first factor that differentiates these models is the space for the toes. Traditional shoes become narrow in the toes section, while barefoot shoes have a wide toe box with space for the toes. This is important for several reasons, but essentially, space for the toes prevents problems such as bunions, balance problems and ingrown toenails. The big toe is essential for distributing body weight and for stability, allowing the person to maintain balance while standing or walking. It also provides the final push with each step, making walking more efficient. Narrow shoes do not allow the toe to perform its function and can cause ingrown toenails, which are very painful.

Another factor that differentiates the traditional model from barefoot is the weight of the shoe. Barefoot shoes are light, and kids often say that: "I can run a lot in them!" Traditional shoes tend to be heavier. I remember buying some sneakers for my daughter that, despite being traditional, were analysed by a podiatrist who recommended them as being respectful. I remember not finding them as flexible as the barefoot shoes I usually bought for her, but I also remember that she felt like she was walking with bricks on her feet, that she couldn't even lift her feet to walk. With every step she could hear her foot hitting the ground. She was used to light shoes and it was only when she tried on a different pair that I noticed the difference that the weight of the shoe can have on her walking.

The quality of the materials is also a factor to take into account. Of course, there are good quality traditional shoes made with good materials and well finished, just as there can be lower quality barefoot shoes. However, barefoot shoes tend to be produced in smaller quantities and are highly concerned about the environment and product quality. In our store, we try to choose brands with a good quality-price ratio. We know that the price of shoes can be a deterrent to buying barefoot shoes, but we also know that quality has a price and in our opinion it is worth it. Children will wear out their shoes naturally, because they run, jump and play a lot, and this means that it is important to choose durable shoes. Sometimes cheap shoes can turn out more expensive. And in our experience, it is cheaper to have 2 good quality pairs than to buy cheaper ones every month.

Finally, I wanted to talk to you about another differentiating factor between these models: the heal. I think this factor is very undervalued and there is a lot of people thinking that a certain drop is good. However, the heel is the cause of many problems both in terms of posture and inefficiency of the foot muscles. We should avoid shoes with drop and the greater the drop, the more problems can arise. But since these problems only cause pain in the distant future, we don't think about them too much. It is in our hands to prevent this. 

Now I wanted to talk to you about some similarities that are also important. This specific traditional shoe model is quite flexible, allowing, like barefoot shoes, freedom of movement, which is important for healthy walking. In terms of design, they are also similar and both are appealing. The idea that barefoot shoes are ugly no longer makes sense. Brands are increasingly investing in innovative designs that are as beautiful or even more beautiful than traditional ones. Because comfort and beauty can and should go hand in hand. Just take a look at our product catalogue and you'll see that there are barefoot models for all tastes and styles.

Did you like this comparison? What traditional models would you like to see compared to barefoot?

FeliPé equals Happy Feet!