Masai Barefoot Technology: Shoes with a Purpose

Benefits: Balance, Posture, Less Joint Stress, and Muscle Tone

Masai Barefoot Technology Shoes (MBT's) come with instructions. Shoes that include instructions may sound complicated, but MBT's are shoes with a purpose. According to Masai,"MBT is not a shoe, but a type of sports training equipment." The shoe is arched on the bottom, designed to recreate the natural condition for walking and standing. According to Masai, this technology prevents wearers from putting too much stress on any one part of the foot. Like any other sports equipment, the success of the shoe technology depends on how you use it.

To ensure proper wear and usage of your Masai Barefoot Technology shoes, they come with instructions. The instructions remind the wearer that there is no shock absorption or support. It is up to the wearer to walk correctly. The arch is designed to facilitate correct walking, but the wearer must initially pay attention to gait and foot rolls. This will doubtlessly cause initial discomfort and fatigue of the feet, legs, and back as your posture adjusts. This is why MBT describes wearing their shoes is, "like walking on sand."

This isn't a bad thing. It's just different. The principle, according to Swiss Masai, is that the MBT shoe recreates the natural conditions for walking and standing. Instead of walking on a flat surface, like we do all day long, Masai Barefoot Technology "challenges the foot." The principle is based on Swiss engineer Karl Muller's observation that shoes and backaches were unknown to Masai tribesmen of East Africa. According to Masai, Muller theorized that many foot and back problems were caused by the atrophy of muscles that otherwise developed by walking on uneven ground. That is why he designed the Masai for a small gym, in the 1990's.

For maximum benefit, proper fit of your Masai Barefoot Technology shoe is important. Unlike traditional walking shoes which prevent your foot from sliding, Masai's arched sole allows your foot to push toward the front. With an improper fit, your foot will slide and you will develop blisters.