cushion vs barefoot running (what i learned after 3 years)

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 5 окт 2024
  • Growing up, I loved to run, but hated "running," so this is the story of how I became a shoes salesman, discovered barefoot shoes, and ended up running for three years with zero injuries. Enjoy! (:
    BEST BAREFOOT SHOES
    / shop below + support the channel for free.
    chart - - - - - - - - - - bit.ly/3oYwe0V
    leather boots - - - www.etsy.com/l...
    v-trek - - - - - - - - - - amzn.to/3PKaD6N
    flying fox - - - - - - - www.wildling.s...
    primus-lite - - - - - - bit.ly/3QU5wm8
    primus-trek - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq
    z-trek sandal - - - - bit.ly/3QqZ6e6
    highrise knit - - - - www.feelground...
    primus sg - - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq
    escalante - - - - - - amzn.to/3clB4lM
    MORE VIDEOS
    best barefoot shoes - - - - • BAREFOOT SHOES / the b...
    zero-drop transition - - - - • ZERO-DROP / transition...
    barefoot transition - - - - - • RUN BAREFOOT / a shoes...
    plantar fasciitis cure - - - • PLANTAR FASCITIS / cur...
    #barefootrunning #barefoot #barefootshoes

Комментарии • 1,6 тыс.

  • @tactnastyv2
    @tactnastyv2 3 года назад +94

    “I didn’t feel the need to change anything about my body” damn. That’s bliss brother

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +13

      Took thirty years to realize I was fine the way I was, ha! (:

  • @captainspirou
    @captainspirou 3 года назад +315

    I've been doing barefoot/minimal for 8 years now. My advice when starting is to go totally shoeless. Not even minimalist. Why? Because with minimal footwear you'll try to run how you always did and at the same speed and you'll get injured fast. When going totally barefoot you'll be forced to slow way down and you'll be much more aware too. You will quickly see that heel striking is uncomfortable and you will change to the forefoot to compensate. You'll probably get blisters, which sucks, but you can recover from blisters much faster than leg injuries. The blisters are letting you know you're pushing too hard too early.

    • @captainspirou
      @captainspirou 3 года назад +26

      Basically barefoot keeps you from overtraining.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +52

      "You can recover from blisters much faster than leg injuries." So true. I've been running completely barefoot lately, even on pavement, and it's tough, but super rewarding. If I started all over, I'd go full barefoot from day one.

    • @The-ul6fd
      @The-ul6fd 3 года назад +6

      The sandals are a good halfway house. Between shoeless and barefoot runners. Had the vivo running sandals and running technique approaches shoeless technique

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@The-ul6fd The Eclipse ones? Been wanting to try them. How did you find the straps-did they rub at all?

    • @The-ul6fd
      @The-ul6fd 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts yes or an earlier version. They are white and light grey, got them around 6 years ago. Little bother with rubbing really. There’s always going to be some fabric to foot interaction...but nothing much.

  • @eyeballin2901
    @eyeballin2901 3 года назад +299

    Did not expect to sit through the whole video but it was super chill and engaging. Good job. :)

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +15

      Ha, thank you. Glad your eyeballs enjoyed it! (:

    • @chrisswan4257
      @chrisswan4257 2 года назад +1

      Yeah great video Andrew - very easy to watch. Very informative too 👍

    • @huskiehuskerson5300
      @huskiehuskerson5300 2 года назад +1

      Oh thank you for that, your majesty

    • @spectazular7489
      @spectazular7489 Год назад +4

      It's only fucking 6 minutes

    • @jonnysimpson093
      @jonnysimpson093 Год назад +1

      @@spectazular7489 Lmao I know this dude must be a goldfish or something

  • @earthsskin
    @earthsskin 3 года назад +174

    2022: ive given up running to chop wood, carry water and fulfill my need for exercise through daily tasks

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +16

      I'm down with that philosophy! (:

    • @danielgibbs514
      @danielgibbs514 3 года назад

      I feel like you’re referencing the book. I love that book! Good job!

    • @valdo9482
      @valdo9482 3 года назад +1

      @@danielgibbs514 what book?

    • @noahapollo
      @noahapollo 3 года назад +1

      @@danielgibbs514 What book?

    • @brophetic4456
      @brophetic4456 2 года назад +1

      What book?

  • @nothersheep
    @nothersheep 3 года назад +86

    Dude, I LOVED those graphics.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +5

      Thank you! Bringing them back for my Barefoot Transition guide (coming soon).

  • @VisUnchained
    @VisUnchained 3 года назад +81

    I thought ,my running days were over because of low back problems until I started transitioning to minimalist and full barefoot running. It has changed my life for the better and I have begun to crave the additional texture of the ground when i am barefoot.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +14

      "crave the additional texture." Know just what you mean! It's like hearing a language you used to know after years of missing it.

    • @andrewhale337
      @andrewhale337 3 года назад +6

      Exactly my feeling as well! After below freezing temperatures, running every now and then on minimalist windsurfing slippers.. I‘m back to barefoot! it‘s like throwing off weights!! .. and the direct contact to the ground, hard to describe to shoe-joggers. (not to mention the benefits to toes, knees & back!!)

    • @leevancleef553
      @leevancleef553 2 года назад +1

      OoOoOh... i've been running barefoot for almost a year and hadn't noticed my lower back pain is gone. It was never debilitating but it was constant.

    • @thetruths7389
      @thetruths7389 Год назад

      How about you step on glass, stones, twigs? Don't that botther you?

    • @VisUnchained
      @VisUnchained Год назад +1

      @@thetruths7389 go eso it usually. Most glass is laying flat and not pointed up and most twigs and rocks can either be avoided by watching where you step or you can tread more gently. The beauty of the way feet are created is that they are incredibly responsive. There is an occasional bruise or laceration or puncture but most of the time I don’t even really notice that until the next day

  • @tishguerrero
    @tishguerrero Год назад +29

    I’m 3 days in taking a dive into barefoot world. Sore calves but not alarming. Definitely feeling more grounded and less anxious. Thank you for your advice & post. ✌🏽

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад +2

      That's great, Tish! Take it slow, and your calves will get stronger in no time. (:

  • @adamwesterbur5758
    @adamwesterbur5758 2 года назад +28

    This was really insightful and encouraging. Being a skinny guy all my life I’ve spent more time trying to “correct” it with weight training which only leaves me feeling injured and worse about myself. I really respect how your journey brought you back to appreciate your genetics and celebrate them.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад +4

      True that! Took me ten years of lifting to realize I actually like being skinny, but now I'm living it up. Skinny strong!

    • @dr.sharkmonk374
      @dr.sharkmonk374 Год назад +1

      ​@AndrewFolts I have been skinny my whole life and
      all of a sudden in med school I wanted to get bulky to look good just to come to a realization last year that man do I feel so free in my natural genetically god given body and that gifted high BMR, why was I trying to gain those extra hypertrophied muscles that I will have to maintain everyday with chuking those extra proteins and weight training and having to maintain it for ages to come just to satisfy the general norm..
      I am so glad I am out of that route and clear in my head .. I just do what I like sometimes basketball, sometimes HIIT, sometimes BFR and sometimes running take protein as a recovery and not as an absolute must need.
      Happy natural gang.

  • @kris1103
    @kris1103 3 года назад +158

    The thing about the barefoot running fraternity is the statement "everybody is injured" but most runners I know including myself who've ran thousands of miles for years without any injury. I have a pair of barefoot shoes, I'm not shitting on them, but the assumption all runners in mainstream running shoes are injured is just false. I have however seen plenty of barefoot runners limping in pain ⅔rds into marathons.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +40

      Most barefoot runners I know are hardly social butterflies, so I don't think we'd like forming a fraternity. Also, I know more women barefoot running than men, so let's at least call it a sorority, ha!
      Every running tribe has their village idiots. I can't tell you how many times I had customers come in when I was working at a run specialty shop and complain that they went for one run in some Nike Free's and got plantar fasciitis.
      I can't speak to the general population, but I can tell you that 99% of the people I fit at that store were using cushion shoes, and most of them were coming in with injuries (or having just recovered from one).
      We can disagree about the shoes themselves, but a big factor is also probably that more newbie runners are using cushion-and newbies get hurt more often. For the most part, people don't start out in barefoot shoes, so by the time they buy a pair, they likely have more experience and less chance of getting injured.

    • @henrystartt
      @henrystartt 3 года назад +28

      @@AndrewFolts I agree with the advantages of barefoot running but I would not say that the cushioning system is the problem.
      If 99% of your customers with injuries wore cushioned shoes this is probably due to 99% of the population wear cushioned shoes. If you are happy with your shoes and not injured you are much less likely to ask someone for help finding a shoe so, a disproportionate amount of people looking for advice would be experiencing an injury.
      Also, if someone is wearing barefoot runners I would assume they have done more research into running as the average person would not know about them or wear them without looking into them.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +9

      @@henrystartt I'm sure you're right, a lot of confused and injured runners go to run specialty stores. But the problem with cushion remains, which is that it wears out in 300-500 miles, often sooner.
      So you're basically running on a slow-motion time bomb. A very expensive time bomb, ha! Better to run in a barefoot shoe, which lets you feel the ground and performs as well on Day One as when you finally throw it in the trash because it's falling apart at the seams.

    • @henrystartt
      @henrystartt 3 года назад +2

      @@AndrewFolts I guess it boils down to putting time into training your body to adapt to barefoot shoes or putting money into cushioned shoes! Not everyone has the time or determination to go though the change and learn proper technique to not have to rely on the cushion.
      For many people who run 3-5 times a month such as my parents its more comfortable for them to buy a new pair of shoes every year or two then spend a year in pain switching over.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      @@henrystartt Yea, makes sense in that use case, for sure.

  • @ellenj9969
    @ellenj9969 3 года назад +14

    Love your vid, well done. Also, my dad was an avid runner all his life and, like me, he never stretched or warmed up before a run, and all went fine! He always used to say, just start out slowly on a run, like you are hardly moving. That very slow pace at the start of the run worked as a warmup, and he’d gradually increase speed as he warmed up. I have been doing the same thing, at his suggestion, for decades now, and it works great. I’m glad you found a method that makes you happy and makes running fun (as it should be). I love the simplicity of it, and am carefully starting to experiment with minimalist running shoes- which is another way of simplifying running and thus making it more enjoyable.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Your dad sounds like a savvy runner! I agree, I think just slowly increasing your speed is the best way to warm up without hurting yourself. Simplicity = happiness! (:

    • @mikewellwood1412
      @mikewellwood1412 2 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts By the same token, is it really necessary to cool down at the end (or "warm down" as some people say)? I don't run actually, but I Nordic Walk, and the groups I've walked with are very fussy about warming up and down. When I walk on my own, I hardly ever bother.
      For cooling down, I just slow down towards the end.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад +1

      @@mikewellwood1412 True, a good run/walk should look like a bell curve with gentle tails at the beginning and end. (:

  • @timonrittinghaus6873
    @timonrittinghaus6873 3 года назад +48

    I was always avoiding running because of my weight and I feared for my knees, but because with barefoot running your body works as it is supposed to be I never hat the issues with my knees that I was scared of. Started slow though, but by now I can run 10ks and looking forward to a half marathon, took me only a year from never running before at all. :) Btw, I run with skinners-socks, but I want to try Shamma Warrior Sandals now!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +7

      Dude, you're killing it! This is such a cool story, and I'm glad you're out there knocking off 10k's and half's. How do you like your Skinners? Does the fabric breathe well enough?

    • @mauxmere
      @mauxmere 3 года назад +2

      I also want to try the warriors once I wear out my shamma chargers, 600k and starting to fall apart.

  • @РоманПросветов-ъ3ы
    @РоманПросветов-ъ3ы 3 года назад +20

    Glad to see, that i am not the only man with this same 'weird' story... Thank you for sharing!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +4

      We're all weirdos, secretly! (:

    • @joebobmarley2854
      @joebobmarley2854 3 года назад

      Me too..

    • @John81oConnory
      @John81oConnory 3 года назад

      I wore vibrams as my daily shoe for two years straight to finish high school, but always took them off to run. Never felt more perfectly made in my own body in my life. 200+ lbs at 5'10" and no pain. Ever.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@John81oConnory Ha, wish I had known about Vibram's in high school. Even more, wish I would have had the guts to wear them! (:

  • @mladentase
    @mladentase 3 года назад +9

    I stopped getting injuries as well when I transitioned. I started fully unshod and after some while got minimal shoes. Now I run both unshod and with minimalist shoes. Taking it easy is the most important thing since simply putting on minimalist shoes doesn't solve the problem. Your body has to adapt SLOWLY. Stretching and warm up is still something I do and preach.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +6

      Truth. So many injuries happen simply because people say "YES" at times when their bodies are telling them "NO."

  • @bemde
    @bemde 3 года назад +64

    I highly recommend "born to run", it's a fantastic book about a similiar journey: not understanding how running causes so many injuries when it's something humanity has done since.. well, being on two feet.
    I'm back to running barefoot too (but starting really slowly, I'm back to 6km in 40min after I had some unrelated injury). I would love a video on how to run barefoot faster as I feel pretty much stuck on one pace (but keeping that for longer would probably not be a problem). Any tips from people in the comments?

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +4

      Love B2R! People keep knocking me for being a "sample size of one," but I'm like...my sample size is all of human history up to the 1970's, ha!
      What tires first-your muscles or your lungs? Or is it something else?

    • @Actualhumanlive
      @Actualhumanlive 3 года назад

      I have arthritis in both feet from wrecking my big toe joints in barefoot shoes running up hills. I also pulled my calf muscles so much I had trouble walking. I used the shoes for about three years and had to give up running thereafter. I vote... a no.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      ​@@Actualhumanlive How long is your stride? Just wondering because the farther out it goes, the more the toe bends, especially on hills.
      We've been barefoot running and hiking for the same amount of time, and I've never had any calf strains. Although they were very sore in the beginning, ha!

    • @joebobmarley2854
      @joebobmarley2854 3 года назад +5

      @@AndrewFolts exactly, modern tennis shoes are a very new thing for humans. I wish I was barefoot my whole life and didnt have to sit in a desk at school all day

    • @joebobmarley2854
      @joebobmarley2854 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts are you barefoot running or wearing Vivo's?

  • @DaroLinguiniJohnson
    @DaroLinguiniJohnson 3 года назад +74

    What the shit?!
    RUclips please give this man the subs he deserves

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +11

      Ha, I wonder if the RUclips algorithm takes into account comments that say you deserve more subs? If I have 100K tomorrow, I'll know who to thank! :)

    • @DaroLinguiniJohnson
      @DaroLinguiniJohnson 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts really hope it does tho

    • @Monorijder
      @Monorijder 3 года назад +1

      +1 :-)

    • @sapientia_et_virtus
      @sapientia_et_virtus 3 года назад

      Yeah, man. You deserve them. Hopefully since your content is so good, they'll come rolling in soon.

  • @cindiluv6861
    @cindiluv6861 3 года назад +9

    Awesome storytelling and editing skills 😊
    Thanks so much for the research and information highly appreciated 🤗

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      You're welcome. Thanks for watching, Cindi!

  • @recyclinggremlin6827
    @recyclinggremlin6827 3 года назад +14

    I love the way you format your videos ! Legit the most creative creator on this site :o) Thanks for sharing your journey !

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Haha, thank you. Had fun doing this one!

  • @thezeroconditional2287
    @thezeroconditional2287 3 года назад +16

    I gave this a go a few years ago after reading The Barefoot Runner and Born to Run, but unfortunately I got terrible Achilles and calf pain. And yes I did try to build up slowly. I was so disappointed because after reading those books I was really excited and hopeful that my flat feet weren't a flaw in my design but just not being served by the shoe industry. Still running now, and I do seem to struggle with whatever shoes I wear but I've just recently been to a podiatrist/posturist/bio-mechanic and she's given me exercises to strengthen all the supporting structures in my knees, calves and feet etc. I hope this helps. If I lived in the countryside or near trails I'd like to give minimalist or even barefoot running another go.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +8

      Yea, trails are definitely better for barefoot running (or really any kind of running). More of a "balanced diet." If it helps, one of the missing pieces for me was not stretching. I feel like calf stretches in particular caused a lot of my PF symptoms.
      When I went 100% in my Primus Lite's (walking and running) and stop stretching and doing warmup drills, my PF symptoms went away permanently. But, yes, zero-drop and barefoot require a lot more calf strength, and you will be sore for months, no matter how you transition. Sore is ok, but obviously you want to stay mindful and get lots of rest so sore doesn't turn into strained.

    • @syrus3k
      @syrus3k 2 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts I began by losing almost 10kg of weight, that helped a lot.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      @@syrus3k Woah, nice work! It's the simple things that make a huge difference.

    • @AlexandraForToday
      @AlexandraForToday Год назад

      @@syrus3k For me things started to change for the better after reading 'Older yet Faster' . Coming from tendonites.

  • @dananderson6459
    @dananderson6459 3 года назад +8

    Great video! I'm also on a running shoe journey and looking towards the minimal options. One thing I have had help with inflammation is.....reducing sugar and carbohydrates. I know, I know more fad diets but it has eliminated the pain in my scar tissue from previous injuries and maintain higher levels of training than before without injuries.
    I was very skeptical before and attempted it as a way to prove it wrong but ended up feeling amazing.
    Just sharing my experiences.
    Thanks for the video.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Yea, I agree. I eat a higher fat diet and usually fast on tea and a bit of cantaloupe in the morning. Definitely helped keep things calmed down!

  • @JerryBisMe
    @JerryBisMe 18 дней назад +1

    I ran competitive cross country and never got injured because I fixed my form to forefoot running early on. All my peers got injured (some severely and frequently) because of what is being covered in the video. If I was running thousands of miles a season without problem, I definitely think it’s inevitable that people who run need to change their form or forever deal with the consequences of inaction. Also you get very nimble running on trails because your body is more in tune

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  18 дней назад

      Nice work! Yea, I was a heavy heel-striker in HS track and was injured all the time. No one ever told me this was wrong, and the local shoe store just kept trying to correct my "overpronation," which was really jus caused by overly cushioned high-drop shoes and an incorrect stride. Once I switched to forefoot and barefoot shoes I was never injured again. Seven years and still injury free. Cheers!

  • @abdolreza82
    @abdolreza82 3 года назад +54

    Barefoot running on pavement (asphalt etc) will eventually damage your feet, legs, heels, hips, knees and etc. We are not evolved to run on these hard surfaces. If you want to run on a hard surface, you need to have cushioned shoes to emulate what you are supposed to run on. The lawn along the pavement (when it's not wet) is the best part of the sidewalk to run on.

    • @mvhsguys
      @mvhsguys 3 года назад +5

      Underrated comment

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +22

      I ran in 3mm barefoot shoes for two years on pavement and the hardness never bothered me, but I do think the tilt and uniformity are a problem-and cushion doesn't solve it., since you're going from firm and uniform to soft and uniform.
      Trails definitely provide a more "balanced diet," no matter what shoes you're running in.

    • @abdolreza82
      @abdolreza82 3 года назад +3

      @@AndrewFolts Great channel Andrew. It depends on where you run and how many runners use the trail. My rule of thumb is impact=injury! Running is amongst the most famous high-impact activities one can do! As we age our joints will deteriorate faster and cushioned shoes can be more forgiving and exert less force on our joints. And I prefer to mix running with low-impact cardios like swimming, rowing or cycling. Stay healthy my friend and cheers!

    • @plyzogyz
      @plyzogyz 3 года назад +7

      source for this pls? the whole point of barefoot is that ur calves is the new hard working
      cushion, shouldt matter which surface you run on. Cushioned shoes dont actually have an impact on the actual force shooting up your leg either

    • @bigboxerable
      @bigboxerable 3 года назад +1

      Yeah, I have given up on minimalist shoes because it is simply so miserable running on hard surfaces. The jarring was too much. As you say, we did not evolve to run on hard tarmac. It was a real pleasure to get back to cushioned shoes.

  • @townbythetown
    @townbythetown 3 года назад +20

    people can say what they want about five fingers but they cured my chronic shin splints

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +5

      They can have my money too! :)

    • @gabbechico8471
      @gabbechico8471 3 года назад +1

      how? i mean, how did u start? dosege? and so on? going from 20-35mm in the heal to what 2-5 mm is not good for nothing in the body at the begining, ! tell me! i have shin splints that dont go away, and i got altra, joe nibles, hoka, nothing helps.

    • @MaxGalofre
      @MaxGalofre 3 года назад +5

      What cured your shin splints is probably your calves, tibialis, ankles, feet, and toes doing what they're supposed to do. The shoe just allows it to happen, but I don't think they did a miracle.

    • @gabbechico8471
      @gabbechico8471 3 года назад

      @Scott Sid been using Joe nibel shoes for pver 6 month now, still my shins dont want to heal propelry! but i hear you!

    • @townbythetown
      @townbythetown 3 года назад +1

      @@MaxGalofre that is true, I wondered about my wording after I posted the comment. It seems to me that the shoes, or the lack of cushioning merely allowed my legs/feet/ankles to strengthen and operate in the way they’re designed to operate

  • @MichaelKraeuter
    @MichaelKraeuter 3 года назад +3

    Thank you for sharing! I started to wear barefoot shoes years ago and love them! I've been working on foot flexibility and getting my toes to splay naturally. It is a journey to get back to how we are intended to move.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Journey is well worth it. Those toe spacers can really help, I've heard. Cheers!

  • @chrishunt2835
    @chrishunt2835 3 года назад +2

    Awesome video! Loved the story telling and the artwork on the note pad beautiful work.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Ha, thank you. Had fun making it!

  • @amyfrederick2025
    @amyfrederick2025 3 года назад +11

    I merrells, just as everyday shoes when required. I love it and prefer my feet to be unhinged these are the next best thing.. thank you

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      "unhinged" Great way to put it!

  • @SkyyThePuffin
    @SkyyThePuffin 3 года назад +1

    Excellent video and presentation, thank you! I've been on a journey where I am trying to love running again after many of the same problems. I have spent the last year improving my neglected strengths that were sapped from years in cushioned shoes. I'm not 'there' yet, but these type of shoes have been saving my health.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      That's awesome! So glad you're regenerating your strength. Cheers to a full recovery!

  • @elsarovira4994
    @elsarovira4994 3 года назад +10

    I started using my Xero Shoes and this time is forever ❣️

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +3

      For-ev-ooooooooooooooor! (:

  • @fju2112
    @fju2112 Месяц назад

    Great video. I started running early 30s and found that over-cushioning the feet was to my detriment. Even now I'm not using anything as minimal as we see in the vid, but it's motivating me to try. I run 5-6 times/week and thankfully injury free, also stopped stretching years ago. Loved the point about not being built to run on sloped marshmallows :)

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Месяц назад +1

      Right on! Well done going injury gree. Just take it slow with your transitioning and you'll have a lot of fun with barefoot shoes. Keep up the great work!

  • @JohnMoseley
    @JohnMoseley 3 года назад +5

    Me in London running shops: "Do you do any barefoot shoes?"
    Staff (with dead eyes): "No."

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      I know what you mean...when I worked in a running shop, I used to wear Vibram FiveFingers, and everyone thought I was bonkers, ha!

    • @JohnMoseley
      @JohnMoseley 3 года назад +3

      @@AndrewFolts At the risk of hyperbole, this feels a lot like what Marxist theorists call being "embedded in ideology." I doubt if most running shop people are thinking about it, but financially, it wouldn't work as well for them, would it, to offer barefoot products? I mean, in the right weather, you can have a great run completely barefoot or in sandals made from a Xero Shoes kit that costs about £20 - and as various companies are now showing, you can make great barefoot footwear that doesn't have to cost as much as the premium brands like Lems, Softstar or Vivo.
      In lots of ways, mainstream, non-barefoot athletic footwear brands manufacture dissatisfaction and a consequent sense of need in its consumers: they put people in inherently uncomfortable and damaging footwear made to look as if it offers ever greater levels of comfort, and people think, "Oh, these gave me shin splints, but maybe with even more cushioning and spring..." There's a Cowspiracy type film waiting to be made here.
      Enjoyed your video, by the way. 🙂

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@JohnMoseley Ha, yes, I just uploaded a video on this a few days ago. Running stores don't sell barefoot shoes because they last too long, and with a negative 10x hit in revenue, they'd all be out of business within a year.
      I own some Xero sandals, but I don't care for them because they're 5mm instead of 3mm, like my Primus Lite's. I've run 3,000 miles in the Vivo's thus far, so I think the $130 price tag is totally justified.
      Funny you say "conspiracy film" because VivoBarefoot literally has a video called "Shoespiracy." It's quick and worth watching.
      Also, you're right. The problem, as usual, is "more." Everyone's first instinct is always to add more cushion...more stability...more support. That's ultimately why I quit my running store job. They brought in this bogus arch insert machine and I couldn't stand working in Idiocracy any longer! How about "less" for once???

    • @JohnMoseley
      @JohnMoseley 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts I'm grateful for Vivos because without their London shop and the very helpful staff there, it would have taken me a lot longer to find out about barefoot shoes at all. Also, their tracker hiking boots got me through a couple of winters. Whatever works, and if it got you a shoe you love and that lasts, no question, the investment's worth it. But most of their shoes don't give me the toe space I need and I don't find the sole as flexible as it could be. Am currently deeply in love with my freet Connect 2s, the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned, and a lot cheaper than Vivos.
      Was just looking up the thickness of the thinner sole offered for the Xero DIY kit sandals, and their websites are so bad that I actually can't find it, but, from memory, the thinner soles - the ones I have - were only 2mm. I've just measured them and this seems right. At any rate, they're wonderfully floppy. Sadly, here in the UK, they seem to have stopped selling them.
      I've seen the Vivo film, but I think what's really needed is one not made by a brand and that really gets into and undermines the psychology of standard running shoes: the logical fallacy that assumes the manufacturers must know what they're doing and must have runners' best interests at heart, and looks in general at the history of shoe manufacture and how we ended up with such odd-shaped, damaging things as normal, and how "normal" is something that can change radically over time. Holbein paintings like the Ambassadors and portraits of Henry VIII seem to indicate that men at the time wore very flat shoes with very wide toe boxes.
      It would also be great to go in detail into the damage caused by normal footwear, not just to runners. There's a great video from Northwest Foot and Ankle of an old lady who's started making her own shoes talking about how every single person of her age she knows has foot deformity of some kind. She sees the shoe industry as almost as bad as the tobacco industry.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@JohnMoseley Oh man, I wish there was a Vivo store in the US. At one time, had thoughts of starting a franchise! ;)
      I do think it's disappointing they don't have wides. I have narrow feet from playing soccer, and they get a little tight in winter if you have more than one layer of socks.
      I don't like Xero at all. They just seem like a scammy company, in general. It's too bad they stopped making 2mm sandals, though, because I actually like the Z-Trek's I have (except for the thickness).
      Could be cool if the major barefoot brands teamed up for a documentary. They'd have plenty of business to share if they knocked off even 25% of the cushion customers
      So awesome about the lady making her own shoes. I want to try that when I have the time. Cheers!

  • @chrisswan4257
    @chrisswan4257 2 года назад +2

    Great to hear your story. So many things ring true for my journey. Despite being active and trying to look after myself, I've spent most of my adult life injured and dealing with pain in my hips, knees, lower back. I had pretty much given up on the thought that I might be able to sustain running as an enjoyable hobby. I've been to chiropractors, physios, had scans and had no end of advice on stretches, strength building exercises - you know the story! Anyway I got to the place where I just decided that I was bio-mechanically cursed. Then at the age of 42 I got given a pair of old altras, watched a vid on barefoot technique and got myself running. The effect on my whole body has been incredible. I've ditched all but a few of my strength exercises and stretches but have become stronger and more flexible. Ive just transitioned to vibram five fingers and just can't believe the difference its made to my sense of well being. I find it quite funny that I've spent twenty two years trying to fix various parts of my body and all along it was all about the feet.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      Wow, what a comeback story! I was almost thirty by the time I discovered Altra's, so I can totally relate. Barefoot shoes introduced me to the idea of "less," and ever since then I've been applying it with a lot of success to other life problems. Have fun with your Vibram's!

  • @eoinnaughton3234
    @eoinnaughton3234 3 года назад +3

    how does this great guy only have 100 subs deserves a lot more

  • @painedforever
    @painedforever 3 года назад +1

    I've been running barefoot for 3 years now, and I started with Vibrams. I picked them because I couldn't figure out what sort of shoes to get. I didn't know if I over-pronate or under, or what sort of stride I had. Barefoot seemed simple, so that's what I went with. And y'know what? I'm pretty happy with them. No injuries, no persistent aches and pains.
    I do, however, change up my workout, sometimes working on my shoulders, sometimes on my core. I'm not trying to lose weight or get buff, but just trying to keep myself strong and build up endurance.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Nice! Vibram's are a great place to start. Most over-pronation is just caused from running in cushion shoes (which are too soft) or stability shoes (which make your ankles weak).
      We did a gait analysis at the run specialty shop I used to work at, and 9 times out of 10, when you had people take off their cushioned shoes and run in socks on the treadmill, their over-pronation disappeared! Glad you found the road to zero injuries, strength, and endurance! (:

  • @duckyluver12
    @duckyluver12 3 года назад +6

    This is so interesting. I had a really similar story working in footwear at an outdoor store. I had foot issues my entire life, and the more I learned about "good" shoes the more I doubted them. So I did the same deep dive as you did into foot shaped shoes. Now I only wear barefoot shoes.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +4

      In the beginning, it's hard to accept the truth...because how could so many people be wrong, ya know? But the older I get, the more I realize that Tim Ferriss is usually right: "Everything popular is wrong."

  • @mrsam2026
    @mrsam2026 3 года назад +1

    Two weeks in and experiencing the feeling of foot arch muscles dancing when I'm at rest. 🦶
    Thanks to the algorithm for bringing me to your channel. Thanks to you for the impartial product reviews.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Happy feet, happy life. Appreciate you checking out the video! (:

    • @izzyh.3581
      @izzyh.3581 3 года назад

      The almighty algorithm 🙏🏽

  • @22ryanoc
    @22ryanoc 3 года назад +4

    Just keep those Achilles strong. It’s taking me so long to fully recover from sore Achilles/heels. I got a spin bike and inline skates in the meantime.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Yup, it's called the "Achilles Heel" for a reason! (:

  • @sarahjensen2473
    @sarahjensen2473 3 года назад +1

    Good luck with the widespread inflammation! I have chronic inflammatory issues and I feel best with time-restricted eating, and low-carb/high fat. Low doses of prednisone to stop a spiral down have been a lifesaver, even with the risks involved. Diet and exercise don't get recommended enough by doctors because they expect us to want a miracle pill. I hope you have a good medical team who supports the hard work approach!
    I'm glad this video popped up for me. It verifies my own observations. Thanks for sharing your experience!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Sarah. Yea, inflammation is a tricky. Fasting in the morning helps, and low-card/low-sugar too. Also, my Cu was low, which is apparently common for joint inflammation. But...yes, there's nothing better than good old fashioned exercise. Hope you keep feeling better! (:

  • @Gerhard2770
    @Gerhard2770 3 года назад +4

    I changed to bare foot running and after 6 years developed an osteochondral defect of my ankle. Now I am not allowed to ever run again....Walking is still painful sometimes after more than a year’s rest. So be careful.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Yes, self-care should always be the #1 priority. Curious if you full barefoot running or using a barefoot-style shoe? If so which one? Sorry to hear about your ankle. Hope it keeps improving!

    • @Andre-bi3gq
      @Andre-bi3gq 3 года назад

      Did you take rest days?

    • @Gerhard2770
      @Gerhard2770 3 года назад

      @@Andre-bi3gq I use to run 3 times a week and did atleast 1 half marathon a month.

    • @Gerhard2770
      @Gerhard2770 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts The way I see it, is you can't punch a brick wall everyday with your bare hands. You will get into trouble.You need boxing gloves.
      PS. I ran in the same pair of Nike free for 6 years.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@Gerhard2770 Ha, why would you punch a brick wall? Metaphor doesn't translate. With barefoot running, you land softly with open toes that roll smoothly, so it's like doing finger pushups on a brick wall, which you could easily do every day.

  • @tonino5
    @tonino5 3 года назад +1

    Great video! I've been running on my treadmill for 2 years now barefeet...I do about 30K per week with inclination & even combined with some killer HIIT sessions sometimes. No injuries, no pains whatsoever. I highly recommend it!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Sounds like a pretty intense treadmilling! (:

    • @tonino5
      @tonino5 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts hehe it is...I started building it up slowly tho but since I have no injuries and no pains, I just keep going. My feet became stronger too =) barefoot running ...best decision ever!

  • @awos6559
    @awos6559 3 года назад +4

    Interesting. I used to run on pavements and my knees started hurting after runs. I changed to trails and they stopped hurting and I love the scenery!! And it’s more challenging. And I use altras. Can’t understand why people put on dropping shoes or pointed ones!!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      For sure. I think the "balanced diet" of trail running is much better than the blandness of road running!

  • @ericpetersen8645
    @ericpetersen8645 3 года назад +1

    Max shoes have allowed me to run fast, high mileage into my 50s. I was injured using previous generation designs. The stack height replaces worn down cartilage and compressed joints. You’ll understand in 20 years...all your pieces are barely broken in!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +4

      Oh, I understand right now. I have some kind of rheumatoid-like arthritis throughout my entire body. It causes me to have chronic insomnia, and I had to give up weightlifting completely. For me, cushion just causes me to have a clunky stride, which results in higher impact. Barefoot running is the only form of exercise that doesn't cause me instant inflammation.
      I've gotten comments from people in their 60's and beyond who are running barefoot with arthritis, as well-same story. Cushion just doesn't work for them. But I fully get it...when you have joint pain, just do whatever works!

  • @SGF08Y
    @SGF08Y 3 года назад +3

    Fooled me into thinking you had 1000's of followers! Enjoyed your video man and thinking of buying some minimal shoes now.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Heh...I wish I had a thousand followers. Gettin' there. Glad you enjoyed it-ditching cushion for barefoot shoes was probably the most life-changing decision I've made. Have fun out there!

  • @momekh
    @momekh 3 года назад

    Precise. Entertaining. Educational. More videos should be like this. Bravo, good sir, bravo!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Momekh. Will keep 'em coming! (:

  • @_cineris
    @_cineris 3 года назад +4

    Last summer I picked up some Merrell Vapor Glove 3's and gave it a shot. Long story short, either it's not for me, or my form sucked or something. After only a handful of runs in them, I'm still dealing with the achilles tendinopathy, 9 months later. I'd had no injuries up to that point (2 years of 20-30 mi/wk), but was convinced by videos similar to this to give it a try, something I now very much regret. I do appreciate the content and sincerity in your video. I just think it's worth pointing out that your mileage may vary, and that if you don't transition properly (and perhaps even if you do) there is a very real possibility of injuring yourself.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +3

      Running is a combination of many factors. It's hard to know exactly how or why injuries develop. As you say, could be the shoes or the stride or many reasons. Most frequently, people just do too much too soon.
      No sure what milage you started with in the Merrell's, but my first barefoot run was just to the end of the street and back. I took it very slow, and if I had gone out right away on my usual 3-5 mile runs, I can guarantee you I would have gotten hurt-because it's a whole new skill set.
      If you ever had the interest to try again, I would suggest starting from zero. Literally just a five-minute run. Injuries don't just appear out of nowhere. You body gives you signs, so, especially in barefoot shoes, it's very important to listen and stop when your form starts to break down or you feel pain.
      There's no rush at all. Happy running! (:

    • @_cineris
      @_cineris 3 года назад +2

      ​@@AndrewFolts Thanks for the reply. I had originally intended to do the first 2-3 minutes of an easy 3 miler, then switch to my normal shoes to finish. But it ended up feeling really good and I wound up running the whole thing. Did something similar, including some speed work in the Merrell's over the period of a few weeks, and then BOOM.
      I've been working my way to lower and lower drop (0 drop trail shoes now!), and less cushioning over the past months since. So there's a good chance that I'll revisit it, more cautiously in the future.
      Happy running!

    • @rosemarie9932
      @rosemarie9932 3 месяца назад

      @@_cineris it is the Merrell Vapor shoes that gave you injuries for sure, as all their barefoot shoes have a built up arch which is not natural at all! Best stay with completely flat natural barefoot shoes with no support at all!

  • @jvd1111
    @jvd1111 3 года назад +2

    One thing that gets overlooked more than anything else is form as it relates to running. One of the reasons you likely feel less injury prone from your barefoot running is that your body is forced to execute each step in a more natural alignment. Your foot strike and the proprioception you feel in your feet forces you to run on your mid foot and engage muscles that would potentially lie dormant with the aid of super cushioned shoes. In short, by being barefoot you feel your body. It hurts to run on your heel barefoot, so you adjust and run correctly and engage your hips, glutes and the rest. The cushion shoes aren’t the problem, it’s usually the runner with poor form. The form is the variable here, in my opinion.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      For sure! Cushion shoes allow you to get away with bad form, but then you pay the price with chronic issues that sneak up on you.
      Barefoot or barefoot shoes teach you VERY QUICKLY not to run with bad form! (:

  • @fernie51296
    @fernie51296 3 года назад +4

    Whenever I train, I do it I’m barefoot shoes. Whenever I go on run, and whenever I go to work (I work in a wood shop). I’ve now reintroduced cushioned shoes though for when I’m going out. Purely for aesthetics reasons. I’ve realized that since I’m used to barefoot shoes and wear them MOST of the time, my gait doesn’t change when I put on a heeled shoe. Still isn’t great because of the toe box. But it’s all manageable. 👍

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Yea, shouldn't do much harm if it's a small percentage of your day. Maybe someday there'll be a Gucci Barefoot line. Then we'll know it's really caught on. ;)

    • @codywinter4818
      @codywinter4818 3 года назад +1

      I'm a Parkour practitioner and I've also been experimenting lately with putting on some more padded but still no-drop shoes -(hard to find! But I can't do the drop anymore, it drives me crazy even more now than it used to.) - for only when I'm doing more impacty stuff. I'm unsure how I feel about it yet.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@codywinter4818 Ha, I know. When I put on my old shoes with drop, my feet are like YUCK, get this stupid thing off me!!! I would check out Lem's. They're zero-drop with a bit of cushion and a wide toe-box. I bet they would be pretty good for parkour.

    • @codywinter4818
      @codywinter4818 3 года назад

      Haha for real, Idk how you're supposed to walk with those clompers.
      Thanks @@AndrewFolts !

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@codywinter4818 Ha, "clompers." That's the perfect word for them.

  • @Ocean.DreaMz
    @Ocean.DreaMz 10 дней назад

    Just gwtting into the barefoot shoe, but i knew i needed to get wide toe bix for a few yrs now but didnt want the "clown wide" look. Thanks for the tips & story 👍🏽

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  9 дней назад

      Nice! Yea, your feet will tell you what's best if you listen. There are def many barefoot shoes that look normal now. You can check out the shoe finder tool bit.ly/49U1Ryo on my website to filter by width, activity, etc, which is helpful in narrowing things down. Cheers!

  • @BreaktheKarmicWheel
    @BreaktheKarmicWheel 3 года назад +4

    "I just felt like runnin"

  • @ieeetransoncircuitssystemf1101
    @ieeetransoncircuitssystemf1101 2 года назад

    the same, 15 months into barefoot running, 20km short of 1000km mark, and pure joy, no injury.

  • @InfiniteQuest86
    @InfiniteQuest86 3 года назад +4

    1400 was such a breath of fresh air. Great shoe. Xero shoes are pretty amazing too.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Yea, I ran some good races in the 1400!

  • @Justine338
    @Justine338 3 года назад +1

    Fantastic video! Great story telling and loved the editing! Thanks for sharing your story!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Thanks, Justine! Appreciate you watching. (:

  • @heyrmi
    @heyrmi 3 года назад +8

    2:54 I felt that. Deeply.

  • @teatarstudio9237
    @teatarstudio9237 11 месяцев назад

    This video is so much more than just a video about running and shoes

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  11 месяцев назад +1

      Was a very successful accident, ha. Glad you vibed with it, cheers! (:

  • @nordfresse
    @nordfresse 3 года назад +5

    Running itself puts a lot of strain on the body, barefoot or not. Walking/hiking is so much better...

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      With a proper mid-foot stride, I've found no difference in strain or injuries between walking and running. People all over the world run barefoot 10-100 miles on a daily basis and experience no health problems whatsoever. It's what we evolved to do.
      Like everything else in life, though, it probably comes down to genetics, diet, etc. Every person's body breaks down at a different rate.

    • @nordfresse
      @nordfresse 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts We have certainly not evolved to run 10-100 miles a day. Why would we do that? It is pretty obvious that running puts more strain on the joints than walking. Over time everyone will notice it.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      @@nordfresse To chase game. One look at the human leg will tell you we're designed primarily for long-distance running, not walking.
      The mid-foot stride creates a spring-like action, while walking results in shock that goes straight up the leg from the heel-which (unlike the toes) has no flexibility.

    • @nordfresse
      @nordfresse 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts Sure, we are able to run long distance and very efficiently, but that doesnt mean thats our default way of moving. Much like a deer can run pretty fast but doesnt do that all the time unless it has to run from a predator. Running as an exercise in order to burn calories and stay lean had never even occured to a human being before the middle of last century. Because most people had no extra calories to burn. The mid-foot stride is great for running but as any spring-like action it will eventually wear out. Walking does produce some shock up the leg but thats ok, in fact a healthy amount of shock keeps the cartilage in our knees in tact since it needs regular sqeezing to get nurtured. Can you really imagine early human beings running around all the time burning calories they then have to struggle to refill again. They did that for hunting ever so often but thats it.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Look at any indigenous culture and you will find that running is a natural part of their daily routine from birth to death. Kenyan children run everywhere-not to burn calories but because they love it and because it’s what human beings are meant to do.
      Need we be running all day long? Of course not. But people can and do run miles every day for their whole lives without breaking down. Everyone has their own preferences, and that’s totally fine, but, for me, life would not be worth living without running.

  • @TMBfan
    @TMBfan 3 года назад

    Brother, you’ve earned each and every one of your subscribers and I absolutely love your videos and presentation. You’ve got another sub!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Thanks, dude! Making videos is a ton of work but a lot of fun, and it makes me happy when people have just as much fun watching. Appreciate you!

  • @Freestyle4evr
    @Freestyle4evr 3 года назад +6

    I actually switched to barefoot running for a while, loved the nb minimus, then the altra escalante, but overstrained and picked up plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Rested and rehabbed then tried to go back to barefoot or minimalist shoes, and actually reinjured. Have had to go back to cushioned shoes and besides some shin splints at the start as I got used to running again, haven’t had an issue
    I do think it’s an amazing feeling to run in minimalist shoes, but not always the answer - I think having rotations of shoes for those that can afford it is the smartest way

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +5

      I had the same experience-got borderline plantar fasciitis from the Escalante. It's a great-fitting shoe, but the cushion got sloppy in less than 200 miles, which was disappointing.
      Both the Escalante (25mm) and the Minimus (23mm) are "minimalist" shoes, but not "barefoot" shoes. Barefoot shoes have no cushion and a thin sole (3-12mm).
      I found no benefits from minimalist shoes. It was only going to a 3mm Vivo Primus Lite that led to zero-injury running, so if you ever feel like taking a crack at barefoot, that's what I would recommend. Totally different experience than minimalist shoes. Cheers!

    • @hammill444
      @hammill444 3 года назад +1

      Bingo. I seriously hurt myself with some merrell barefoot shoes. I wasn't even running. Just walking. Never again.

  • @thelthrythquezada8397
    @thelthrythquezada8397 Год назад

    Last week I found you and a few other barefoot channels. I stopped wearing shoes THAT DAY. I am blessed to work for a family business and they don't mind that I am wearing these runner soled "socks" I FLIPPING LOVE THIS! I don't have pain. the only bother I feel is all the muscles of my lower body is sore from not being awake for all these years. But as the days go and getting good sleep, eating clean I am able to recover after sleeping.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад

      Heck yea! Your feet'll wake up quick once you start using them, and the pain will go away in no time. Enjoy your new freedom. (:

  • @rubencohen2936
    @rubencohen2936 3 года назад +3

    Andrew thanks for spreading the message on what we've known for years. It's great when our feet start thinking for themselves. Live long and prosper my brother. 👣 👍 🇺🇸

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Much appreciated, Ruben.
      Vive la (barefoot) révolution! 🔥

  • @goodvibekidd696
    @goodvibekidd696 3 года назад +1

    Love the drawings with the story, very engaging. Like I said before, your editing is great.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Thanks! Learning a bit more every video. (:

  • @ifirexx5673
    @ifirexx5673 3 года назад +7

    “Yes” to all the answers to your questions at the end of the video pls!! 😁

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Working on a barefoot transition video as we speak! (:

    • @ArtOfHealth
      @ArtOfHealth 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts why transition? In 2008 at 54, I bought three pair of five fingers. They fell apart and became unglued and they still do. I tried Merrell and both pairs were horrible quality. I am moving to Xero. Good luck to you!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@ArtOfHealth Just had another comment about that (100 miles). Then again, also talked to a guy who got 5,000+ miles from his Vibram's. Who knows. Glad Xero's are working for you!

  • @jennifercollins6716
    @jennifercollins6716 3 года назад +1

    Great video, very creative and out-of-the-box! I just discovered and purchased my first two pairs of barefoot shoes, Xero Genesis sandals and Vivo Barefoot Primus Trail SG. I have always loved going barefoot. There have been many times while on long walking days at amusement parks or out hiking that I wished I could just kick off my shoes and go barefoot. Now I can get that same barefoot feeling with these shoes! Looking forward to more videos.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      It's so funny because people are terrified of going barefoot on hard surfaces, but it's much easier on your feet than cushioned shoes. I think we should change the rule to "No Barefoot, No Service," ha! I have the Primus SG, too. Lots of fun on muddy days! (:

  • @jackryan2135
    @jackryan2135 3 года назад +5

    From Hoka's too vibram's, running wrecks my body.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +3

      Impossible to say without seeing your stride, but the #1 cause of injury in any shoe is doing too much too fast and not taking time to let your body recover. Listening to your body plus a using a smooth forefoot stride, and you can run barefoot or nearly barefoot with no pain on any surface! (:

  • @richardburchett
    @richardburchett 3 года назад

    Thanks for sharing your story. I went from heel striking to a forefoot strike pretty early in my running journey. I would get the pf arthrosis pain with long runs and some quick research suggested it was caused by heel striking. I'm so glad I made the change; I can't imagine running any other way. There was a painful breaking in period as you have to build up strength and resiliency in a lot of smaller muscles. The end result was well worth it and allowed me to stay injury free even when putting in lots of miles. Thanks for spreading the word.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Hey Richard! Lucky you for figuring it out early. Took me 27 years, ha! Can't believe I went through high school track without a single person telling me to forefoot strike instead of heel strike.

  • @Julemand1997
    @Julemand1997 3 года назад +6

    Hey didn't understand the part where everything began hurting again in 2019?
    Why did it do that?

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +6

      Still figuring it out. Working with a coach, doing testing, and experimenting with different nutrition. Pretty sure it's a thyroid issue. I'll make another video on that if I find a consistent solution.

    • @zachpw
      @zachpw 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts Feel like this is obvious but do you have a sodium/potassium deficiency?

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@zachpw According to the HTMA test I just did, my K and Na levels are actually too high, but Na is low in relation to K.

  • @keithamos6992
    @keithamos6992 Год назад

    I was having some knee pain. I decided to switch to a zero drop minimalist shoe and try slow jogging. I am now happily pain free

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад

      Hey, way to go! Knee pain is no fun, so I'm glad you found a simple fix. Cheers!

  • @cheeriosaltcream
    @cheeriosaltcream 3 года назад +9

    whoa whoa whoa. So what ended up being responsible for your aches and pains in your fingers and hip pain and your whole body? you just gave up weight/body weight training? That's it? That's sad

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +7

      It was super disappointing at first. Like ten years of leg pressing 500 lbs and working on my strength just down the drain. But it's weird because now I actually feel "stronger" being skinny. Like I have twice my normal endurance-I can just run and run and run and not get tired.
      Honestly, would not go back to weightlifting. But still figuring out the aches. Pretty sure it's a nutritional issue and thyroid/autoimmune related. I did manage to clear up my brain fog with seaweed (iodine) and I'm trying out some Mg and Cu per test results.

    • @zoobdo
      @zoobdo 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts Elimination diet!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@zoobdo Yea, been experimenting, but no change in symptoms yet.

    • @Barrrt
      @Barrrt 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts Could it possibly be rheumatism? I'm just an idiot on the other side of the screen so don't go worrying over what I say. Thanks for the good vid!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@Barrrt Yea, I've thought that since it's all over. We shall see!

  • @raphaelv8062
    @raphaelv8062 3 года назад +1

    Switching to minimalist/barefoot shoes has been the best decision I've made regarding running, by far. Only downside is they get damaged faster than padded running shoes.. and it's easier to find them online than in shops which means you can't try them on..

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Which shoes do you have? Milage is weird. Every cushion shoes I've ever owned was shot in under 500 miles, while my Vivo Primus Lite's have lasted 3,000+. But then, some people get 1,000 miles out of their cushion shoes and plow through minimalist shoes. Lots of factors, who knows!

  • @jkeiffer
    @jkeiffer 3 года назад +3

    So you started having all these pains, but you don't know what caused them? Are they gone since you can't go to the gym anymore?

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +2

      Definitely improved since ditching the gym and weightlifting, in general. Most-likely thyroid and autoimmune-related. Still experimenting and getting tests.

  • @syrus3k
    @syrus3k 2 года назад +1

    I've been doing the barefoot/minimal thing for 6 months now, mostly after watching this video. I've had to build it up slowly, but it does indeed work really well!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      Going slow is the hardest part, but ultimately the most rewarding. Cheers to more gains!

  • @AsianThunder0
    @AsianThunder0 3 года назад +6

    Uh, dude, you should get that whole body pain checked out. Cuz . . . that ain't normal

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      I'm working on it. Getting tested and such. Seems like a thyroid issue. Will make a video on it if I make progress.

    • @IrishMexican
      @IrishMexican 3 года назад

      Tension Myoneural Syndrome? It’s what I had and now I’m back at it!!!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@IrishMexican Don't have back pain or cramps, so probably something different for me. Glad you're back in action!

  • @djf7
    @djf7 6 месяцев назад

    I loved the “giant, tilted marshmallows” quote

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  6 месяцев назад

      Just don't try and cook them over a fire. (:

  • @lifeisbeautiful1562
    @lifeisbeautiful1562 3 года назад +1

    Nice content...
    My only problem is pebbles, glass pieces etc..
    Since I run on roads there are plenty of it.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Yea, it's a challenge and you have to be constantly scanning the ground. There's a list avoidance techniques in my Barefoot Transition video here that might be useful: ruclips.net/video/oUUdYgHvv70/видео.html

  • @Kaal_Bhairava1
    @Kaal_Bhairava1 3 года назад

    Quite engaging video. Easy flow in conversation made me stick to the end.
    Thanks for helping out.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Kun! I accidentally get sucked into rewatching it myself sometimes. (:

  • @davidr5685
    @davidr5685 3 года назад +1

    I use to be a sprinter/powerlifter until someone told me "you can't do both".my response "watch me". Like you, I love the feeling of the ground and the no loss of power. I'm currently training for my 4th ultra 150 miles, average 220 per month. Most injuries, like you said, have been tied to too much shoe = loss of mechanics.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      So true. I remember the first time I leg pressed 500 lbs in 3mm Vivo's. I thought: "There's no way I can do this without cushion." But turns out it was easier and didn't stress my feet at all. Three years later, I'm barefoot running on pavement and still loving it. Human body's pretty amazing.

    • @davidr5685
      @davidr5685 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts you are so absolutely right! I never made that connection but yes power lifting shoes are basically like socks! That might be why I've had success transitioning. Could you please do a vid about how you handle rocky trails or types of socks or lack of? Your feet do build a tolerance but it's hard to run really rocky trails for hours without rethinking about zero drops. Hahaha

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      @@davidr5685 I think you will be pleasantly surprised with the next video I'm about to released, ha. For long-distance barefooting you need a ton of callus for padding, but you can only get it from abrasion (not simple impact). Running on rough pavement will help you build it pretty quick, but be prepared for lots of little cuts and scrapes.

  • @ABSENSEOFSENSE
    @ABSENSEOFSENSE 3 года назад

    After countless reviews on on a multitude of shoe brands coming across this video has been refreshing and welcomed and obliterates all the nonsense that's coming from so many cushioned shoe brands.
    Really good video mate and I will be taking your advice.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      "obliterates all the nonsense" Ha, love it! You might like the "zero-drop/minimalist" video if this one was helpful, and I'm coming out with a full-barefoot running guide soon, so watch out for that. Cheers!

  • @barbarajendryczko5441
    @barbarajendryczko5441 3 года назад

    What a great way to visualise what you're talking about 👏🏻

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Barbara! Glad you enjoyed the papermation!

  • @leonda4817
    @leonda4817 Год назад

    I wear groundies (just like your vivos) all the time, almost never normal shoes. For running tough, i use shoes with moderate drops and firm relatively thin midsoles. Works for me. Strong lower legs and feet from my everydays life, and some moderate shock absorbtion during running. Best of both worlds.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад +1

      Whatever works is always the best option. Cheers! (:

  • @Liam-B
    @Liam-B 2 года назад

    I've worn jikatabi since I was twelve (after a skiing accident sprained all my lower joints) to help with inflammation and natural strengthening.
    14 years later, after walking, working while standing, lifting, hiking, skating, and mountain biking, I have zero issues with stiffness or inflammation of any kind even standing for 18 hour shifts at work, or hard workouts.
    Plus it's a great way to flex your work ethic to encourage others to do more with less, and do better. I genuinely can't live in regular boots or shoes for more than a few days without having lots of weird issues.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад +1

      Congrats, Liam, that's amazing! How'd they work for skating? I had a comment from someone asking about barefoot skating shoes but wasn't sure if the thin sole would work.

    • @Liam-B
      @Liam-B 2 года назад

      They work great! I'd imagine there is more risk of injury if you do lots of tricks though.

  • @RICKLUSTOSA
    @RICKLUSTOSA 3 года назад

    It's just so satisfying watching this video! Thanks man!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Ha, thanks Iran. Some times I accidentally get sucked into rewatching it myself. (:

  • @tompescod2810
    @tompescod2810 2 года назад

    Great stuff bro! I started on track and field back in the 80s and as far as I remember, back then running shoes were extremely minimalist and I guess kinda zero de drop. We were instructed to breath from the nose, stride with bended knees falling on the forefoot. I stopped running during the nineties (got into baseball and then skateboarding)... When I came back to it on the 2000s everything I was thought had changed! People breathing from the mouth, using long heel strides, and bulk cushioned shoes 😬... Got frequently injured following the crowd. So I went back to my running roots. Got some Merrell zero drops, started running trails, forefoot stride, nose breathing. Other runners think I'm goofy, I don't mind, I rarely get injured AND I enjoy my runs.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      Ha wow, must have been like landing on an alien planet coming from the era of minimal track shoes. You're right, breathing is so important, and a lot of people do it all wrong. It's the simple things that make the biggest difference.

  • @mryder66
    @mryder66 3 года назад +2

    I run barefoot whenever I can, otherwise it's minimalist, zero drop shoes. I tried fluffy marshmallows once a while ago, and it was just weird. I'm definitely interested to hear others' thoughts on ground temperature challenges. Winter is particularly tough, so much so that I find myself wearing shoes for 3 or 4 months each year. By the time it's warm enough to go outside barefoot I have to slowly work on building up the toughness of my soles again. I think one sacrifices a little speed running barefoot, but the feeling of freedom and the feedback you get from your feet makes up for any pace loss in spades.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      I really like the VivoBarefoot Primus Lite for this reason. It's only 3mm and provides a 98% barefoot feel-plus, you can put their razor-thin Thermal Insole in if your feet are too cold (space blanket material).
      I did a video on winter barefoot running, which might be helpful: ruclips.net/video/-kWhNevOjjw/видео.html

    • @mryder66
      @mryder66 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts Thanks. I appreciate the follow up. I live in GA, so we don't get the snow and ice. We do get cold days though. I guess my gripe is feeling the soles of my feet becoming more gentrified as winter progresses. I try to run barefoot on the treadmill, but it's not the same and the heat build up on the belt gets uncomfortable after a while. I guess I just need to suck it up and accept that I'll need to re-season my soles starting in march each year. Sunday will be day one of seasoning on the trail. It's gonna hurt a little

  • @cantolin4
    @cantolin4 3 года назад

    I also switched to barefoot running three years ago. Before I switched I was struggling with plantar fasciitis. Not only did running barefoot reduce injury, the tactile sensation of the ground on my feet made running much more interesting and enjoyable. I ran track in high school but only after running barefoot did I feel I had learnt “correct” running form. Running barefoot taught me not to heel strike and to distribute my weight between the ball of my foot and heel upon landing. These days I couldn’t imagine spending $100+ on running shoes like I used to. I would much rather spend that money on something fun like rollerblades. Great video, I hope barefoot running becomes more popular!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      I sometimes wonder how my coach would have reacted if I had worn barefoot shoes in high school track. Probably would have flipped out! (:

  • @colvinscorner
    @colvinscorner 3 года назад +2

    You are the only person to actually explain what zero drop means. Every other article i have read or video ive watched never says, the difference between the back and front of the shoe, thank you sir

  • @roadrunnerbikernewskater781
    @roadrunnerbikernewskater781 3 года назад +1

    Waw... I LOVE YOUR VLOG, YOUR STYLE IS AMAZING, THE MUSIC, AND THE PICTURES.. GO AHEAD

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks! Appreciate the watch. (:

  • @SWatchik
    @SWatchik 3 года назад

    The little doodles are such a great idea. Awesome work

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Ha, thank you! The idea came from a "365 Comics" challenge I did in 2020. You can see them on Instagram @fthelines. It started as digital art, but I did a lot of paper toward the end. Cheers!

  • @Mystic_Christopher
    @Mystic_Christopher 3 года назад

    I first bought Xeroshoes 2 years ago. Haven't gone back to regular shoes since. The Mesa Trail shoes they sell are amazing!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Sweet! Still have my Z-Trek's. The durability is crazy. They probably will last 5,000 miles, like they claim. I bet even more!

  • @jeremyboley2259
    @jeremyboley2259 Год назад

    Great video. I made the switch to barefoot running, with toe shoes, 13 years ago and have not had a single injury. I think the key is to move from a heel strike to a mid toe strike extremely gradually. Listen to your body.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад

      Right on! Yea, the gradual part is where most people go wrong, trying to do too much too fast. Which toe shoes do you have?

    • @jeremyboley2259
      @jeremyboley2259 Год назад

      @@AndrewFolts Vibrams.

  • @0Ledge
    @0Ledge 3 года назад

    I struggled for years with shin splints. Went through 7-10 different podiatrists, 3 different running style coaches, shoe inlays, ... and then I read Born to Run, bought a pair of Merrell trail barefoot - and went running. My calfs lit up like a nuclear power plant the first run - but then; no more shin splints, no knee pain - and it's been 10 years, not one injury! I'm still heavy and slow - hills are lower because of me. But I'm running. The human foot is a spring in itself - can't beat +200.000 years of evolution.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      That sounds like a nightmare! So glad barefoot running is working for you. Ten years, no injuries-damn, you're killing it! Definitely easier, though, once you remove the BS and let your body do it's thing!

  • @keffone5881
    @keffone5881 2 года назад

    "giant tilted marshmallows" dying over here 😂 Love your vids and energy by the way!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад +1

      Can't even roast 'em over a fire...come on! (:

  • @thehousespouse
    @thehousespouse 3 года назад

    “ Wait... Why aren’t all shoes foot shaped?!” Yes! Exactly!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Very fishy...someone should look into this. (:

  • @DenserNL
    @DenserNL 3 года назад

    Own four sets of FiveFingers. Absolutely love the V-Runs. Changed from normal shoes to FiveFingers 2 years ago.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      Own some V-Treks, but need to try the V-Run some day!

    • @DenserNL
      @DenserNL 3 года назад

      @@AndrewFolts You'll love them. So much thinner and lighter then the V-Trails.

  • @robburdick
    @robburdick Год назад

    nice video, just got a pair of tesla minimalist running shoes and remembered how different it feels. I have sore calves and I am running slower but it feels like the right thing to do. Cool way to animate by the way.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад

      Thanks, Rob! Yea, I know what you mean. Even tho it's hard in the beginning, you know you're on the right path, and that feels really good. Cheers!

  • @sturmunro
    @sturmunro 3 года назад

    Cool video, I like the little graphics! I have had a similar experience but stopped at the Altra stage - zero drop with cushion. Love the combination!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Altra has a great fit. Definitely what I would use if I was in the market for a cushioned shoe!

  • @scottconceicao6309
    @scottconceicao6309 3 года назад

    Awesome, cool honest story. Thanks for letting us in and making us think.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Scott. Glad you enjoyed it. Cheers!

  • @kulch2008
    @kulch2008 3 года назад

    Wow, my journey has been exactly the same. Hokas, torins, Escalante racers, Xero shoes, now 5 vibram 5 fingers. It's been an 10th month journey, never been injured, never felt better. Fantastic video mate.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      So funny! Looking back, I probably could have saved myself the time and money and just skipped straight to barefoot. But glad we made it here, either way. Which Vibram's do you have?

    • @kulch2008
      @kulch2008 3 года назад +1

      @@AndrewFolts i got 2 pairs. V runs. Which are great for long runs. Kso evo. Which are the thinnest most flexible shoe, shorter runs and daily life. Thinking about v trail for trails, but need more time, only been 1 month in vibrams. But I love them. Ultimately want to do all my runs in the kso Evo, will slowly get there 🌠

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад +1

      @@kulch2008 Nice, I've been wanting to try the Evo's...if only my Primus Lite's would die, ha. They're on 3,000 miles and still going strong. The V-Trek's work great, as well. Surprisingly breathable for a high-top shoe.

  • @cacapupu1234
    @cacapupu1234 3 года назад

    Wow this video was very engaging! Great stuff!

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, Adrian. Appreciate the watch! (:

  • @TheXV1CT0Rx
    @TheXV1CT0Rx Год назад

    Im 6 foot, 238 pounds. My body is not built for running but i have been using vivos for 2 months now and first few runs built my already large calves up to handle my weight. Now I am running a 10k tomorrow and I feel great in terms of foot, knee and hip health

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  Год назад

      Right on! Worked with an ex-special forces guy once who was built like a tank and also ran in minimal shoes just fine. It's amazing what you body can do all on its own. Keep up the good work!

  • @kevin-carr
    @kevin-carr 3 года назад

    Great production quality and I learned a lot too to improve my running 🏃‍♂️

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Glad it helped, Kevin. From software to footwear and beyond! (:

  • @boricuamom87
    @boricuamom87 2 года назад

    I got some barefoot shoes and wow. They felt so different and weird but oddly good. I could feel everything which was oddly satisfying.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      "oddly good" Ha, love it. I feel like some barefoot brand should adopt that as their slogan.

  • @devin2532
    @devin2532 3 года назад +1

    You deserve much more subscribers and views!! Focus on videos like this and I’m sure your channel with grow. Keep it up 👍

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  3 года назад

      Thanks, working on a barefoot transition guide, as we speak!

  • @brandinshaeffer8970
    @brandinshaeffer8970 2 года назад

    I'm 49 and have always been a beast in the gym and on hikes etc. suddenly my feet hurt SO BAD. Doctor gave me custom orthotics and my feet only got worse. My hips started hurting so bad i couldn't even run. So I'm on a foot strengthening mission and trying to transition to barefoot.

    • @AndrewFolts
      @AndrewFolts  2 года назад

      Yea, unfortunately I heard the same orthotic story from probably hundreds of customers while working at a shoe sales job. Good news is if you take the transition slow, your feet will 100% get stronger, and then everything will start getting better and better.