Masai Barefoot Technology: Shoes with a Purpose

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

Masai estimates the life of the $245 shoe to be about one year; it may last longer if you are of average weight and use the shoe correctly. The correct arch on the sole is crucial to the shoes function. If the sole is worn away the shoe will not work properly and may cause more harm than good.

Unlike high end running shoes, designed with specific foot problems in mind, Masai Barefoot Technology is designed to help the wearer correct his/her own step and posture. There is no additional arch support or roll bars in the MBT, as is often found in running and walking shoes. Roll bars and step supports artificially force a correction in one's step. MBT's allow you to correct your own step over time.

Masai Barefoot Technology is ideal for someone who is flat footed, rolls on their foot, or has an awkward gait. MBT's may help improve anyone's gait and posture. The wearer is instructed to place more weight toward the front of the foot when taking a step forward, and not fall to the back of their foot for weight support. Runners and walkers should easily relate to the corrections the MBT is designed to accomplish.

Due to the increased circulation of blood to the foot, initially your feet will sweat more. Double running socks will help prevent blisters when your feet sweat. Running socks can be purchased at any athletic shoe store for less than $5 a pair. According to Masai, sweating should decrease as your foot becomes accustomed to the shoe.

To date, Swiss Masai reports selling over 300,000 shoes. Despite the workout the shoes endure, feedback indicates the shoes are holding up well. The technology seems appropriate for anyone who has foot, leg, or back problems. Masai Barefoot Technology should, theoretically, alleviate the load on the joints and spine by approximately 19%, according to Swiss Masai, creating less tension. This makes sense because your body frame rests on your feet. Proper posture may improve beginning with the feet.