The three elements are a foot-shaped toe-box, a flexible, and zero-drop sole. These will allow your feet to function naturally. Let's discuss this in a little more detail.
1- Natural foot-shaped shoes have room for your toes to splay. Without enough room for your toes, you compromise stability and balance and can't improve your foot strength. You develop deformities that can become painful. Do the insert-test: remove the insert and step on it to know if there is enough room for your toes. When your feet are inside the borders of the insert, you know it suits your foot.
2- The sole of your foot-shaped shoes needs to be flexible. Why a flexible-sole shoe? Because your feet flex from heel to toe and laterally. The sole has to allow your feet to flex as they need to. To figure this out, hold the shoe in your hands and try to bend the heel and then the toe-box. Feel the flexibility of the sole; does it wave from one end to the other? It doesn't have to bend completely in two, but it has to flex and wave as your foot does. Consequently, a flexible sole is not thick and will allow your feet to feel the ground. The thickness will vary from 3 to 10 millimeters.
3- The zero-drop sole is an essential element of the foot-shaped shoes. Zero drop means the sole is flat and has no elevation from heel to toe. You want no interference to your natural foot state when wearing your shoes. It should feel like you are barefoot. If you add an arch support there, you are interfering with the natural foot state. If you add cushioning, your brain will search for the ground. The arch and the support remove the ability of your feet to function naturally and will weaken them.
The weight of the foot-shaped shoes is another factor but more difficult to find; high-quality lightweight shoes are rare on the market. The reason you want a shoe that is light is to prevent your feet from carrying extra weight that is unnecessary. The lighter your shoes are, the more comfortable they will be. At the end of the day, if you forget to remove your shoes, it is a good sign and an excellent barefoot-style shoe.
Your feet will be happy when you put them in shoes that don't modify their morphology. Can it be simpler?
1- Your feet are triangular, wider at the toe, and narrower at the heel.
2- Your feet flex from heel to toe; the sole should do precisely that.
3- Your feet are flat with a little natural arch; the foot-shaped shoes are flat, so the feet keep the strength to maintain their natural arch.
A foot-shaped shoe with all three of the elements above will make your feet strong and healthy. Healthy feet can and do all manner of different activities. It is not the shoes that are performing those activities; it is your feet, a notion we seem to forget. Although the shoes may have different grips to the sole, designed to work better in specific environments, you still need to have your feet able to respond to the activity's demands naturally.
SOM Sense of Motion Footwear is the perfect foot-shaped shoe for different activities. Don't take our word for it; just read our customers' testimonials, from those who have climbed all the fun mountains in the Rockies. In addition to having the three elements: foot-shaped, flexible, and zero-drop, SOM shoes are also lightweight. We have countless reports from our customers saying that they forgot to remove them at the end of the day. A customer will frequently say: "I realized I was watching TV with my SOMs on." These are happy feet!
]]>Narrow, pointy shoes or boots may look better or classier to many people, but there is a high price to pay. The obvious price is pain in the feet but pain also arises in the rest of the body, such as in the knees, hips, and back. These detrimental effects are due to poor posture, which is itself due to squeezed toes and over-supported feet.
Foot issues occur over time, mostly due to inappropriate footwear. Dr Ray McClanahan, PHD and founder of Northwest Foot & Ankle and Correct Toes, explains in more detail on his website what harm conventional shoes can cause to the foot and to the body.
A narrow toe-box squeezes the toes to a point, which can cause deformities and foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, plantar fascia pain, and overpronation. Arch supports weaken the foot muscles. Elevated heels can change the body's overall alignment and cause Achilles tendonitis, ankle instability, and back pain. The issue with arch support is well explained in the following video The TRUTH About Arch Support. The best part is when it says how in twelve weeks your muscles atrophied when being supported. (Thank you Squat University!)
On the other hand, natural, foot-shaped shoes promote healthy feet by letting them do what they are designed to do: move freely and support the entire body weight.
Barefoot-style shoes have a wide toe-box, a flat sole (zero drop), and no arch support. Wearing natural foot-shaped shoes is like being barefoot, so there is no interference with the foot's shape.
A foot-shaped toe-box allows the toes to splay naturally, which encourages vital blood flow and proper nerve function, and provides a good balance and strong arch muscles. A flat sole without heel elevation promotes proper body alignment from feet to head.
Natural foot-shaped shoes don't have arch support (Do you really need an arch?), so work with the foot muscles rather than against them, and this naturally strengthens the arch. Flat soles distribute body weight evenly without stressing the toes, ankles, knees and back.
Barefoot-style shoes allow the wearer to be more grounded and alert and allow the brain to sense the ground better, which then promotes a better balance than thick and stiff soles.
Natural foot-shaped shoes also promote a more natural foot strike. Instead of landing on the heel, the strike leans more toward the mid-foot and forefoot, which allows the foot to better absorb the impact of walking or running.
People who wear shoes with elevated heels and support rely on the shoe's construction to absorb the impact of walking which, in the long run, affects the ability of the foot to do it naturally. As the feet become weaker, so the wearer needs more and more support. It can become a vicious circle. The weaker the feet, the more support needed. Alternatively, the more the feet are stimulated, the less support is needed and, therefore, the stronger the feet become.
At the gym, the more you lift, the stronger you become. Feet are no different. Let them work the way nature intended.
We must keep up hope because we are seeing more and more of what are claimed to be zero-drop or barefoot-style shoes on the market. We have noticed more competition around us in our ten years of serving feet. When the idea of starting our brand sparked, only the Vibram 5Fingers brand was available.
Consumers must pay attention to the structure of the shoes they buy. A foot-shaped shoe is wide enough for the toes to splay. The sole is flexible and zero-dropped from toe-box to heel. You want as few interferences as possible with your feet. A good foot-shaped shoe makes you feel barefoot. In a foot-shaped shoe, you can feel the ground and are as close to it as possible, ensuring stability.
The shoe industry world will change when more doctors educate their patients about better footwear. In today's era, individuals are often seeking more information, and the process of change speeds up when more questions are being asked. The key is for people to start trusting what their feet are signaling to them: pain or comfort. We see it over and over again at the factory outlet store. When someone tries on a pair of foot-shaped shoes, our barefoot-style shoes, for the first time, the reaction is usually immediate. You hear that person saying: Wow, those shoes are comfortable.
When doctors start to believe in feet, for real, and the shoe industry starts listening to their consumers' problems and needs, we will see changes. Today, shoe brands market big on new technology such as air-cushioned, gel-filled, air-sole, 3D foot scanners, and more to add "innovations" to your footwear, forgetting that your feet may not need any of these.
It doesn't seem to matter; we continue adding elements – cushioning, heels, arch support, tapered toe-box – despite what doctors may see firsthand how their patients’ performance is reduced when the natural foot function is compromised. People won't learn what is happening until they have real troubles. Pointed shoes take a while to shape your feet, and problems may start in your twenties, but then you tough it out. And feet are taken for granted and are not necessarily viewed as being that important.
After more than ten years of working in the footwear industry, we still try to answer why conventional shoes don’t have a foot shape. The natural function of feet requires simplicity to allow them to function as they are designed to. In our society today, we need to wear shoes. But shouldn't the shoes be just the necessary envelope, like a pair of good pants, so that feet can perform as usual, without restrictions and constraints?
We believe in feet at SOM Footwear because we learned that less is better. We were born without shoes—and feet function perfectly on their own.
]]>
It might sound odd that major shoe brands must be reminded of what feet need, especially with the evolution of knowledge in the modern world. Even worse, the shoe industry has not listened to its customers who are suffering from foot issues caused by the very shoes that they've been selling for decades.
Let's be fair: more options for healthier footwear are available on the shelves today. It has yet to be perfect, but it is better than even 12 years ago when we started our brand. The fact that big brands are now marketing some foot-shaped models indicates that people are becoming more aware and realize that better footwear is as vital to their well-being as eating healthily. The demand for foot-shaped shoes is growing.
The shoe fashion era, which began during the Middle Ages to differentiate the low and high classes, started a trend in shoe history that has persisted for hundreds of years - and continues today. The elite class was making a fashion point rather than looking for comfort. The fact that the shoes were uncomfortable didn't matter.
History has demonstrated the foot deformities that shoes create when they unnaturally squeeze the feet. Despite that knowledge and increase in foot pain, change has been slow. Learn more about the benefits of natural foot-shaped shoes here.
You, the consumer, want to perform to the best of your ability. To do so, you know that if your feet are in cast-type shoes constraining your feet, you are subject to injuries (bunions, fractures, sprains, etc.) that limit you and degenerate in a matter of time. Pointed shoes squeeze your toes, not allowing you to walk or run naturally, which creates problems with your motion and your entire body up to the top of your spine. Toes that cannot spread naturally reduce your stability, not to mention the unhealthy transformation your toes undergo, which leads to significant problems (like hammertoes, bunions, etc.).
The simple answer is that the shoe industry needs to remember what it serves: feet. Despite all the injuries proven to be caused by shoes, you still have a hard time finding shoes that are healthy for your feet. What is wrong with that picture? Pointed shoes negatively alter your feet and their entire functionality. And the social debate on all sides of the issue is going strong. Understandably, confusion can ensue, and it can be difficult to know what to believe.
This a heartbreaking question from someone who just figured it out after years of suffering. Not all doctors believe in feet and continue to think that adding orthotics is the solution for everything. The worst part is that we hear often that podiatrists don't address the issue of the shoes you are wearing and don't direct you to a healthier type of footwear despite all the evidence. It is discouraging and sad to know that many patients will receive medical treatment but not footwear advice. Surgical procedures will occur, but the specialists won't express a word about the unhealthy footwear that caused the problem in the first place. We have customers who received the same surgeries, more than once, years apart, for the same exact problem. When your foot doctor doesn't believe in feet, it is time to wake up!
The best advice we, as individuals, should follow is to pay attention to our instincts and listen to our feet. Start to trust yourself and do it for yourself and no one else. It takes time to perform trial and error on our own, but it is worth the journey.
Listen to your feet; they know what is best.
]]>When we were young before our feet met their first shoe, we all had wide feet: our toes were the widest part of our feet. Why, then, would most traditional athletic and dress shoes get narrower at the toes?
Babies' feet are widest at the toes.
Eventually, we begin wearing shoes that squeeze our toes into a space that is not wide enough for them. The tapered toe boxes of traditional athletic shoes and conventional office footwear place style over substance, creating manufactured shapes that constrain and alter our feet.
This continued pressure against our toes can turn them more into pointed triangles and less like our natural foot shape. The toes can begin to lose the ability to function as they were meant to—and things like balance, gait, and posture can all be affected.
A wide toe box (left) vs. the traditional toe box (right)
Many people can feel that there is something their feet don’t like with the tapered toes of most shoes. Everyone knows that uncomfortable feeling of being in a shoe that is too tight. When our feet are squished, we adjust even when we can’t pinpoint the problem. Maybe we try a shoe size larger or look for a wide shoe. Women sometimes turn to men’s shoes that are constructed a bit wider for relief.
For many of us, that feeling may tell us that our sizing is wrong, but rather, our toes tell us they are unhappy.When toe-scrunching shoes are all we know, it can be hard to think that something more comfortable exists. Wide shoes, classified as EE, offer more room throughout the shoe, and, it is the difference between wide-toe-box shoes for women and men. Shoes with a wide-toe-box, however, provide that room at what is usually the widest part of the foot: the toes. After spending so much time in shoes with tapered toes, experiencing footwear that gives toes room to breathe can be fresh air. For many of us, that extra wiggle room is precisely what our feet have wanted without us knowing it.
Hobbits keep their toes free.
When we designed our footwear, we focused on providing a roomy toe-box. With this natural foot shape, we are able to serve feet of different widths with the same shoe. Wide feet (no more than EE) have found a good fit in the same shoes that accommodate a standard or even a narrow width.
Here is a helpful guide to determine whether you have wide or narrow feet.
By choosing a shoe built around the foot's shape, you get the width where it is most often needed (at the toes) while still fitting the heel and midfoot comfortably. It turns out that's what most feet want!
Now, feet are notoriously hard to measure. We often look solely at length and width when picking a size. When you use a 2-D sizing system to measure a 3-D object, you are limited in determining a good fit. Everyone’s foot holds its volume differently and sits differently in a shoe. In addition, our feet can change in size over the years—shoes that fit three years ago may no longer work for the same feet.
The best answer is to try a pair of shoes with spacious toe boxes and see how your unique foot fits. This doesn't mean you have to purchase shoes only in person; when buying online, choose a company that allows for exchanges and returns to ensure you can get the right shoe fit.
In brief, be sure to listen to your toes and trust your feet. They have much to tell us about what is most comfortable for them. We see it daily; when someone tries on a pair of wide-toe-box shoes for the first time, like our SOMs, we often hear: "Wow, those are comfortable!" Right then, they realize these toe shoes make a lot of sense (Well, our founder's story tells more about how he conceived the shoes with common sense.) In other words, toe shoes with wide-toe-boxes are for everyone with toes that need to spread to give balance and stability. This includes standard or "normal" feet, too.
Please check out our blog to learn more about the steps you can take when adjusting from traditional footwear to SOM's wide-toe-box shoes. : New to Barefoot Shoes?
]]>
This article is really for a newbie in that kind of shoe. There are a few things to keep in mind when starting to work out in minimalist shoes or barefoot shoes. First, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Second, focus on proper form and alignment to avoid injuries. And finally, be sure to listen to your body, take breaks when needed, and do some stretching (stretching is always a good thing to do anyway).
If you want to improve your workouts and get better results, consider trying barefoot shoes!
Barefoot shoes offer a unique benefit that has been studied in various ways. It has been shown to increase activation of certain muscles in the legs which helps to keep the user stabilized and safe during workouts. Additionally, these shoes have been found to increase proprioception and allow the user to be better aware of the body’s position on the ground. The unique design of barefoot shoes offers enhanced stability compared to regular shoes. The sole of these types of shoes is much thinner, which brings the foot closer to the ground. Additionally, it allows for greater toe splay, thereby further enhancing the stability of your feet, ankles, and legs.
This increased awareness allows individuals to better interpret and react to external stimuli and situations in the environment, improving their agility and reflexes. With the increased sensory input available, the user can react more efficiently to sudden changes in balance, pressure, and force, which can ultimately lead to improved performance during a workout and so reduce likelihood of injury.
Finally, barefoot shoes can also be beneficial for developing a greater awareness and appreciation for how the body responds when in movement. It allows users to be more in tune with their bodies in relation to their environment, resulting in better workouts.
The first step to incorporating barefoot shoes into any regular workout routine is to begin by gradually introducing them into the workout. Start off by doing warm-up exercises and stretches in barefoot shoes and then slowly increase the amount of exercise and intensity you do in them. Before attempting any heavy lifting in barefoot shoes, it is important to be adequately warmed up so that no injuries occur. Improving ankle mobility is also essential for athletes in order to execute more complex lifts such as squats and single-leg squats. As part of a sound warm-up routine, the ankle must be properly stretched and worked on regularly to achieve the best outcome.
To ensure the feet are adequately strengthened for the more natural posture and movement of the feet that barefoot shoes provide, stretch the muscles in the feet and ankles before and after any exercises. For many people new to barefoot shoes, these muscles are not used to working naturally without support from artificial gimmicks, such as cushioning and arch supports.
When performing any weight-lifting exercises, it is important to focus on stability and avoid any sudden movements or jerking. Since the main benefit of barefoot shoes is being able to better feel the environment, it is important to use this to one’s advantage in order to maximize performance.
It is also important to take breaks if the feet become too tired. Once the break is done, slowly build back up to the level of intensity at which the exercise was previously performed.
By following these steps, incorporating barefoot shoes into their workout routine will help to ensure that the user gets the most out of their workout with the added benefit of foot and ankle strengthening.
The type of barefoot shoe you should use for lifting and other types of workouts depends on the level of comfort, performance, and stability you are looking for. Before selecting a pair of barefoot shoes, it is essential to thoroughly research the different models available. The right shoes should have a sole that's the same thickness from toe to heel, which is called zero-drop, and provide plenty of room for your toes to move freely. Additionally, they should be breathable and highly flexible, so the feet can also move freely. No constraint on movement is what determines if you are in a pair of minimalist shoes or not. A healthy footwear for natural posture includes the following: zero-drop, roomy toe-box, highly flexible, lightweight, and breathable.
Now that you know what to consider before buying a pair of barefoot shoes, you are ready to make an informed decision about which ones are best for your workout needs.
Remember, when it comes to lifting, it’s essential to choose shoes that provide stability, comfort, and room for your toes.
No matter which type of barefoot shoe you choose, make sure they fit correctly, and always take the time to warm up properly before beginning any workout routine. Taking proper care of your body is the key to staying safe and getting the most out of your workouts.
Making the transition from traditional shoes to minimal footwear for your workouts demands some diligence and commitment, yet the payoffs are significant in the long run. Once you've done the groundwork and engaged in adequate stretching routines, be astonished by what you can accomplish. Your ankles and legs will become much more supple, equipping you with greater finesse to complete complex movements while preserving excellent posture.
]]>If you’re thinking about making the switch to barefoot shoes, it’s important to do so gradually to allow your body to adjust. Start by running for short distances on soft surfaces, such as a track or grass. As your muscles and tendons become stronger, you can gradually increase the distance and intensity of your runs.
It's also essential to choose the right type of shoe. There are many different types of barefoot shoes on the market, from minimalist running shoes to more robust options designed for trail running. Be sure to do your research to find a shoe that will fit your needs.
Making the switch to barefoot running can be a challenge, but it’s worth it! With some preparation, you can enjoy all the benefits that this unique type of running has to offer.
In order to successfully transition to barefoot shoes, it is essential to build an effective foundation. This includes strengthening the muscles in the feet and ankles as well as increasing balance and proprioception. When following proper progression, you will build your foundation.
Foot exercises such as toe curls, calf raises, and ankle circles can help keep the feet flexible and strengthen the muscles and tendons. Other exercises such as hopping and balance drills can help to increase proprioception.
In addition to exercising, stretching is also important. Stretches such as calf and ankle stretches can help increase flexibility in the feet and keep the muscles from becoming too tight.
We highly recommend the book Born to Run 2 by Christopher McDougall and Eric Orton. It is a guiding book to help readers improve their running form and run more efficiently and naturally for the rest of their lives. Simple to read and understand with many exercises and tips to help build your foundation and improve your form. The authors’ reasoning is that there are skills and techniques to develop in running which are as important as in any other sports.
Regularly engaging in these exercises will help to prepare the body for the transition to barefoot or minimalist shoes. Without this foundation, a person is more likely to experience pain and strain, so taking the time to build up the muscles and improve balance is worth your while.
When you are ready to begin your journey into barefoot or minimalist shoes, there are some key guidelines to keep in mind in order to ensure your transition is successful.
From experience, the main point is to know your body and what feels right; to stay connected with the sensations that are developing in your body and taking the time to stretch your muscles. When you first start running in your barefoot shoes, one thing very important, you can’t heel strike. This is where most runners learn about running techniques and proper form. The best technique we learned about was to run with bare feet on a treadmill and then, in a park. Eric Orton in Born to Run 2 suggests doing speed work in bare feet to help your form. There is so much to learn but the journey is worth it.
By following these guidelines, you should have a successful transition into barefoot running shoes.
Once you’ve followed the guidelines above and successfully transitioned to barefoot running shoes, the next step is to build your mileage - an important part of any running program. You need to gradually increase the distance you run.
Here are a few tips to help you build your mileage the right way:
By following these tips, you can gradually build your mileage and ensure a successful transition to barefoot running.
There is one rule you should always obey whether working out, running or playing with your kids: listen to your body. If it starts to hurt, slow down or stop. Take a break if needed. You won't gain anything if you injure yourself by pushing too hard. So again, be patient and transition progressively.
Cross-training is an effective way to improve your performance when running in barefoot shoes. Cross-training involves activities that complement running, such as strength training, yoga, or swimming. Different types of cross-training can improve core strength, flexibility, and overall cardiovascular fitness.
Strength training can help you build a strong muscular core, which is important for barefoot running. Running barefoot or in minimalist shoes requires the use of all the muscles in your lower body. A strong core helps you maintain balance and stability throughout your runs. The athlete in you knows how important it is to take care of your entire body for the rest of your life, so let’s get good habits today! ;-)
Among others, yoga helps in improving your flexibility, which has many benefits, one of which is the prevention of injuries. Swimming can help to improve cardiovascular fitness and relax the muscles in a gentle way.
Cross-training is a great way to complement your running in barefoot shoes, so plan to include it in your training routine.
Once you have adjusted to running in barefoot shoes, the only limits are yours. We have heard countless times that once you get used to barefoot running shoes, you can’t go back to what is the general “running” shoe on the market. Your feet just won’t let you!
It may take a while to get used to barefoot shoes and that is the hardest, to take the time to transition. But if you really think about it, and want to avoid all the injuries created by most of the shoes on the market today, really it is worth it to invest the time in your feet and running form. Like Christopher Dougall said in his first book Born To Run; with the high technology behind them today, no one should ever have any injury caused by shoes.
Prioritizing a shoe that offers no interference with your natural posture (zero drop), that allows your feet to move freely (roomy toe-box, flexible thin sole) and that doesn’t feel like a cement block at the end of the day (lightweight), you set yourself for having stronger feet in the long term. Happy feet will take you wherever your heart wants to go.
Making the switch to barefoot running is a process and should not be rushed. It is important for new barefoot runners to start gradually and increase the intensity and duration of the runs slowly.
Barefoot runners should also be aware of the risks associated with this type of running and follow the guidelines outlined above to ensure safety and prevent potential injuries. Your body may have forgotten what it’s like to run without any artificial support from your shoes. There is a need to adjust posture, and rebuild muscles.
Ultimately, what matters most is listening to your body and adjusting your running accordingly. Running in barefoot or minimalist shoes can be a rewarding experience and it is possible to enjoy the benefits of this type of running if it is done responsibly and safely.
Take the time to find the right shoe for you and don’t be afraid to experiment. And always remember that Rome was not built in a day!
]]>
Barefoot shoes are beneficial for the health of your feet, ankles, and legs. They can also improve your posture and alleviate back pain. In addition, barefoot shoes can help you to be more mindful of your surroundings and improve your balance and coordination.
Barefoot shoes are becoming an increasingly popular way to improve health. For those looking to explore the potential of this type of footwear, here are just some of the surprising benefits that can be gained from wearing them. Keep reading to find out more!
Wearing barefoot shoes can provide many health benefits. Here are some of the most surprising health benefits that you can experience by wearing barefoot shoes:
Although wearing barefoot shoes is beneficial in many ways, the question still remains: how do these shoes help us? The science behind the health benefits of barefoot shoes lies within the concept of natural movement.
Humans have evolved to move in a certain way, and our feet are designed to work as a natural shock-absorbing mechanism when we're walking or running. In modern times, however, with the introduction of hard-soled shoes, our feet tend to be confined and restricted, which leads to reduced mobility and balance and also can cause knee and back pain.
By reintroducing the freedom of a light, flexible sole to our feet, barefoot shoes allow us to tap into our innate ability to move naturally and to reap the benefits of a more natural gait. The thin flexible sole that varies from 2 mm to 8 mm lets your feet move naturally and lets your muscles, tendons, and ligaments work to maintain balance and control, leading to improved posture, stronger muscles and tendons, and improved balance and coordination.
If you're looking for a more barefoot feel, then a 2 to 4 mm sole is the best option. Simply be aware that these shoes don't offer much protection when walking on rocky trails. However, if you are wanting more forgiveness and protection from sharp objects, then 6 to 8 mm like the SOM soles are the way to go. This thickness is also a better option for those transitioning from traditional shoes as it is a more gradual transition.
Remember that going through an adjustment period is normal. Your feet will need to get used to the feel of your barefoot shoes, and you may experience some minor pain and discomfort as you build up your strength and balance.
In conclusion, wearing barefoot shoes offers several surprising health benefits. Barefoot shoes can help you improve your balance, strengthen your muscles, and reduce the stress on your joints and bones. They can also help you adopt a better posture and give you more natural movement throughout the day. For those who have moved from shoes with a raised heel and narrow toe-box to barefoot footwear, transitioning back can be difficult to nearly impossible. I know this from my own experience.
However, it’s important to make the transition to barefoot shoes gradually. Start with a few minutes a day, wear them with comfortable socks, and pay close attention to your feet and any pain or discomfort they may be experiencing. With these tips, you can enjoy the many benefits of barefoot shoes and discover a whole new world of healthy movement.
To your health and well-being.
]]>On the way to becoming happy customers, people often look at our shoes and ask themselves, "Are barefoot shoes good for me and my feet?" There are many benefits to barefoot-style shoes, including improved balance and posture, better alignment from toes to the tip of your spine, and increased muscle strength. If you’re considering changing, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if they’re right for you.
The benefits of barefoot shoes
When it comes to the benefits of barefoot-style shoes, there are many — both physical and psychological — that make them appealing to so many people. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits for you to consider:
What you need to know before switching to barefoot shoes.
While there are major benefits to wearing barefoot-style shoes, there are also some risks associated with this type of footwear. Here are some of the risks you should be aware of:
How to decide if barefoot shoes are right for you
The best way to find out if barefoot-style shoes are right for you is to try them on. We always ask our customers if they go barefoot at home. If the response is yes, there is a great chance they will love their SOMs because they will feel as comfortable in them as being barefoot. There are many types and styles of barefoot shoes on the market but be aware of the not-so-barefoot ones. To help you make the right decision, here are a few tips:
How to get started with barefoot shoes
Adapting to barefoot-style shoes can take some time, so here are a few tips to help you transition more easily:
Your feet freedom is waiting for you
Remember, everyone's experience with adapting to barefoot shoes is different, so don't get discouraged if it takes you a bit longer to adjust. Keep at it, and soon enough you'll be enjoying the many benefits of wearing barefoot shoes!
So, are barefoot shoes good for you and your feet? Switching to barefoot-style shoes may require some adjustment, some stretching (which is always good for you anyway), and some patience but the rewards are well worth the effort over time. Most of our customers don't go back to cushioned shoes once they are used to their SOM's.
]]>Although there is still plenty of snow on every mountain in Colorado, the Utah desert and all the fun it offers, is calling. We put on our ‘desert -only’ (forever infiltrated with Utah fine sand) SOMs, packed the camping gear and off we went.
Last weekend, Nathalie and I started our canyoneering* season with a pretty challenging yet really fun slot canyon; Chambers. As we usually do on weekends, we planned to do the longer hike on the first day. Our initial plan was to hike Lost Park on Saturday and then a shorter hike (Chambers) on Sunday morning before heading back home (a 4-hour drive). But I have to admit we chickened out when we woke up in our beautiful camping spot that Saturday morning; the weather had changed overnight and it was actually pretty cold and windy. Lost Park Canyon is supposed to hold water and the air temperature was a bit cold (to us) to play in the water. So plan B turned out to hike Chambers Canyon, which takes less time to hike (about 4 hours), and to start in the early afternoon when the sun is at its highest.
It turned out that we made a good decision and had a blast. In this video, you see one of the beautiful chambers.
Chambers Canyon is a very narrow canyon with some sections no wider than 12 inches. It is not a canyon recommended to large-frame people for the reason that it is easy to get seriously stuck - and I mean really stuck!
When we got to the crux, the canyon got so narrow - less than 10 inches wide - I started to feel claustrophobic trying to go through that section, and I realized we had to find a different way. I was glad we had the route description with us. The best way not to get stuck is to stem up about 12 feet onto a ledge to go above that too-narrow section.
I used my shoulders, knees, feet, hands, and a lot of energy to stem up those 12 feet before belaying Nathalie. By the way, it is always recommended to carry an extra, thin rope for situations like that.
Past that section, we still had to go through the canyon exit and jump into the final pool which had no water on that day, just sand. From there, it was a nice hike back up to the car on and around big knolls where one hears nothing but the desert breeze.
We had so much fun, and cannot wait to go back. The desert has so much to offer in terms of diversity, beauty, and challenges. We always remind ourselves how fragile it is and we always make sure to leave no trace.
We are telling you this story simply to answer many customers who are asking us what we do in our SOMs. We do everything we like, we don’t own other shoes anyway, so that answers the question! In our life the only limit to our SOMs is when boots and crampons are mandatory, such as when walking on glaciers. Skiing is another limit, but I have always have a pair of SOMs waiting on my home-made scooter ready for the muddy ride back to the car.
*Please note that canyoneering or canyoning is the sport of exploring a canyon by engaging in such activities as rappelling, climbing and down climbing, and waterfall jumping. It requires all kinds of skills and can’t be done without a serious knowledge of the canyon to be explored.
]]>Contributor: K. Drexler, entering into the wisdom of age with a smile
Although we gain a lot of hard-earned wisdom as we age, and we finally may feel like we are well-grounded and balanced, walking over uneven ground may put a stop to that feeling.
Besides being disconcerting, losing balance later in life can be a major safety concern because the risk of falling and suffering significant injuries becomes so much greater. Luckily, there is a way to reduce these risks if we can make sure the bottoms of our feet have as much contact as possible with the surface of the earth. Research on older adults by Dr. Hylton Menz, a professor of biomechanics at La Trobe University in Australia, shows that wearing ill-suited shoes can lead to foot deformities and increased risks of weakness and falls.
When our heels are elevated by the cushioning found in most walking shoes, it may distort our senses and confuse our brains. In a cushioned shoe, the feet receive less accurate sensory information. When our feet cannot fully sense the ground beneath us, we lose our ability to respond reflexively. Our feet also become less sensitive as we age. In order to compensate for this, then, and maintain balance, we have to adapt and provide our brains with the information they need. The best way to do this is to make sure our feet are firmly planted on the ground and our toes spread out as much as possible.
Surprisingly, wearing cushioned shoes has also been shown to cause harder impacts to the rest of the body than wearing no shoes at all. When Dr. Daniel E. Lieberman from Harvard University first discovered this years ago, it was groundbreaking. “The energy that gets shot up your leg is about three times bigger in a cushioned shoe than if you’re barefoot,” he said, adding that “we have no idea what that means” for joint health. The rate of arthritis of the knee has doubled since World War II, though, and one theory is that the increase is due, in part, to changes in shoe design which started incorporating cushioned soles at that time.
While jaunting along in cushy, padded shoes can feel pretty easy and comfortable to the feet, it can actually be more uncomfortable, long-term, for the body. Other benefits of ditching the padded shoes can include:
A fragile foot structure, caused by cushioned shoes, is common, but it doesn’t have to be. Dr. Stephen Robbins and Dr. Adel Hanna, from Concordia University in Quebec, Canada, have found that feet are able to improve quickly, regardless of age, by wearing shoes without cushion. (SOM Footwear has a great selection here.)
A flatter shoe that feels more like being barefoot will automatically strengthen the foot/ankle complex and fix some bio-mechanical problems, helping elderly people stay injury-free. (Of course, if you’re suffering from foot or joint problems, talk through your options with your doctor.) Feet become stronger quickly. However, if you aren’t wearing flat shoes now, it’s not wise to jump into some and walk for many miles. Your muscles and joints have to adapt and you need to develop the appropriate strength in the feet before you try too much too quickly.
Here are a few ideas that can help:
Wearing the right shoes is good for the sole and the body. We should make choices that can help us feel grounded and balanced, no matter how uneven the path ahead may be. And that’s how we age successfully.
References:
Lieberman, D., Venkadesan, M., Werbel, W. et al. Foot strike patterns and collision forces in habitually barefoot versus shod runners. Nature 463, 531–535 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/nature08723
Menz HB, Morris ME. Footwear characteristics and foot problems in older people. Gerontology. 2005 Sep-Oct;51(5):346-51. doi: 10.1159/000086373. PMID: 16110238.
Robbins SE, Hanna AM. Running-related injury prevention through barefoot adaptations. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1987 Apr;19(2):148-56. PMID: 2883551.
]]>If you want to see the ocean along either side of your path, then the Dragon's Back in Hong Kong is for you.
“The last leg of the Hong Kong Trail, this meandering path on the ridge of Dragon’s Back is widely hailed as one of Hong Kong’s best urban hikes. Besides its attractive name, Dragon’s Back has a sightseeing platform near its peak that provides truly spectacular views of southern Hong Kong Island and its shoreline. Right at the trail’s end is Big Wave Bay. Take a dip or surf the waves for a relaxing finale to this hike.” (www.discoverhongkong.com)
“Easily reached by bus from downtown Hong Kong, the path begins in a shady tree tunnel on the Shek O Road, before scaling Shek O Peak, with vistas over white sandy beaches, lush hills and tropical islands. The route ends at the beach at Big Wave Bay, its warm waters perfect for a post-hike dip.” (www.cnn.com/travel)
If you’re looking for a hiking adventure that offers more than a pathway to follow, the West Coast Trail involves “scaling ladders, wading through rivers and battling along muddy tracks, but with the bonus of being able to camp out in spectacular open country.” (www.cnn.com/travel)
“West Coast Trail is part of the ancient paths and paddling routes used for trade and travel by first nations. Huuay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht villages and camps were well established before the foreign sailing ships started to arrive off this coast over 200 years ago. As the years passed and the number of ships sailing the Juan de Fuca Strait increased, so too did the number of shipwrecks and drownings along the coast. In time, the coastline became known as “the Graveyard of the Pacific.” (www.pc.gc.ca)
This hike isn’t just for the legs and feet, but with over 100 ladders to climb and hip-deep waters to push through, your entire body will get a workout, so be prepared for a challenge. Luckily, a pair of lightweight, water-repellent SOM sneakers like our Nutrail Cross Sport or Trailhead are up to any outdoor, wet and wild adventure your feet can throw at them.
One of the prettiest hikes in the Tar Heel State at any time of the year. While some hiking destinations can be less accessible during the winter months, this one is even better, with stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
“This is a really nice, moderately difficult hike along a cascading creek, up switchbacks, and through wildflower fields. A couple miles in, you'll reach a helipad that is used for rescuing injured rock climbers - Looking Glass Rock is a popular destination for world class climbing. There is a small trail leading away from the helipad with nice views of the lower cliffs.” (www.theoutbound.com)
Dense forests surround you, and far away vistas capture the immense beauty of rolling mountains.
Escape is where walks take us–away from the noise and rushing of everyday routines and into a steady pace of collective clarity. Whether a path places you between coastlines, transports amongst forest ladders and rushing rivers, or wraps you in mountain vistas, the restorative effects found in a walk, no matter its distance, will last long after its over.
Wherever your feet take you, at home or abroad, trails etch our world in opportunities for adventure, and SOM Footwear will treat your feet to American-made quality that strengthens those adventures with every step.
Have you been on an epic adventure or have a trail we should feature on our next list? We will highlight a new set of three walking destinations in future blogs, so share your stories and pictures at somteam@somfootwear.com and they might feature in our next collection.
Happy Adventuring!
Sources:
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/uk/explore/great-outdoor/dragons-back.html
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/world-best-hiking-trails-cmd/index.html
https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/SCO-WCT
https://www.theoutbound.com/north-carolina/hiking/summit-calloway-peak-in-grandfather-mountain-sp
]]>
When we shop at Walmart or place an order from Amazon, we understand the range of our transactions: To quickly find what we’re after from a place that carries everything. But how much of our money circles back to the creators, designers, and tradespeople that brought the items into existence? It can be difficult to reach those directly responsible, when the levels of big business, shareholders, and corporate hierarchy complicate the path of appreciation for quality products. The larger the company, the more challenging it is to know the impact our purchase has in its success.
Revenue from small businesses, like SOM Footwear, stays in the business and with its employees. Purchasing a pair of our wide toe-box shoes from our online store or in-person at our factory in Montrose, Colorado, supports the talented team of seamstresses and shoemakers who make what you are about to wear.
When we say, From our hands to your feet, we mean it.
We design, cut, sew, shape, sole, lace, and box every pair of SOMs. Our hands are always involved, and our eyes are ever-present for quality assurance. If we spot something wrong, it is fixed or restarted no matter how far along it is in the process. We want you to be as proud to buy American-made as we are to make it.
We are nothing without our community, both in the surrounding mountains that have been our home for over eight years, to the inspiring customers who have grown with us, shared with us, and strengthened us into what we are today. SOM is as much your business as it is ours, which is why we strive to be as transparent as possible when there are changes, additions, or new policies implemented.
We want the lines between customer and company to be direct and uncomplicated. This not only improves our products, but the lives of our workers who make them and the satisfaction of our community who enjoys them. You get what you put in, and the end result is worthwhile when both sides are involved in the process.
Walmarts and Amazons will always have their place, but balancing larger retail chains with smaller, independent businesses helps direct resources and support back to the people and places most connected to the products and services that make them invaluable.
They may not have next-day free shipping, or half-off storewide prices, but time and money goes into quality, customer care, and the goal that whether you’re buying our shoes or crafting them, both sides deserve happy feet and happy lives.
]]>
Our flexible, 8mm, zero drop soles means feet are flat to stand and step with level precision. Elevated heels force the feet off-center by lowering the toes and raising the heels. Even a subtle slope to the natural bend of the foot can tilt us forward, adding less security on unstable or uneven surfaces.
Balance comes from the ground up, and solid foundations are built on even structures. By keeping your toes and heels level and closer to the ground, not only will your posture and stability improve over time, but so will your awareness and connection to the world around you.
Our wide toe-boxes give one of the greatest gifts toes could ask for…space. While traditional tapered shoes squeeze toes into an arrowhead shape, leading to rubbing, sweating, and blisters, SOM’s toe-boxes are spaced to fit the natural shape of the human foot: narrow at the heel and wide at the front. Room for toes to breathe not only benefits foot health, but strengthens our ability to walk longer without feeling sore.
Lightness means flexibility, and flexibility means your footwear moves how you want to move, not the other way around. SOM shoes, like the Nutrail Air, disappear on your feet, and with the enhanced breathability of many of our materials, your toes will thank you for the unrestrained breeze.
In addition to all of our models being vegan, by using as many America-sourced materials as possible, from our lace bands to our zero-drop soles to the SuperFabric and power knits fabrics that comprise the majority of our footwear, we support manufactures held to a higher environmental standard than other countries.
In addition to sourcing our materials from as close to home as possible, we reuse our production scraps, reducing waste and ensuring every fabric, stitch, lace, and sole is used to its fullest.
Our resoling process to extend the life of your favorite pair, involves removing the old soles, which are shipped to a recycling plant that breaks the materials down to be reused as crumb rubber for playgrounds and running tracks. We then adhere fresh soles and ship back your shoes for a renewed sense of motion.
The less a shoe alters the natural shape of the foot, the more relaxed it will travel. All SOMs are certified by Correct Toes, Northwest Foot & Ankle's highest level of certification. This means our shoes meet their strictest criteria for natural foot health (learn more here).
(Disclaimer: While we believe feet can be greatly improved by wearing SOMs, we are not podiatrists or physical therapists! We are presenting information we have found helpful and insightful, but as with anything, your mileage may vary!
Power and speed come from the strength of our feet, not the footwear tied to them. We exercise and tone so many parts of the body, why not the feet?
SOM shoes are designed to put your best foot forward by embracing the unique shapes of our feet. A wide toe-box gives your toes room to spread and breathe. A zero drop sole at 8mm thick provides flat, even surface-contact for better posture, balance, and stability. Lightweight, durable materials made in the US flex and bend with your steps without slowing them down. All of these features combine to strengthen your feet as they move and connect you to your activity as if you were barefoot.
Whether you're in the gym or walking the dog, SOM’s barefoot-feel shoes put your feet in control the natural way, with as little between you and your steps as possible.
Through social media, newsletters, and email correspondence, it’s important to us to keep the lines of communication with our community as open and active as possible. If a customer emails or calls about an order, it’s only a few feet away to give them an update.
By reading every comment and encouraging healthy discussion, there is always opportunity to learn and refine. If SOM can make something better or turn an idea into a future model, the company is greater for it.
Every model of SOM footwear can be resoled, increasing the miles of adventure your favorite pair can take you on. While other brands may think little about refreshing their shoes, and instead, push for you to buy new pairs, we designed our SOM Footwear with renewable soles to ensure the resources used in each pair have the longest, most purposeful life possible.
The longer you can wear the same shoes, the less you need to spend on new pairs, which during these high inflation times, is an amazing feeling.
For more information, please view our resoling guide for images on how to tell when soles are ready, as well as what steps to take when they are ready for us to resole.
We have designed, cut, sewed, shaped, soled, laced, and boxed every pair of SOMs from our Colorado factory for over 8 years! Our hands are always involved, and our eyes are ever-present for quality assurance. If we spot something wrong, it is fixed or restarted no matter how far along it is in the process. We want you to be as proud to buy American-made as we are to make it.
Think outside the shoe box in versatile footwear designed to frame your feet for whatever they choose. While other brands dictate the activity, overcrowding closets with a sole for every occasion, SOM Footwear empowers feet to steer the action. Work, walk, run, bike, hike, lift, and relax without ever looking down to change shoes. As the only made in Colorado sneaker company, SOM packs seven shoes in one, like a Swiss Army knife of footwear.
Whether you choose us for our handmade-in-America quality, our foot strengthening and toe-relaxing construction, our long-lasting versatility, or all of the above, SOM Footwear exists to serve your feet and make your adventures as comfortable as possible.
]]>
Sean G. of Hanover, Maryland
Sean had a big Spartan race coming up and wanted to get a pair of Nutrail Cross Sport before the deadline. The Cross Sport’s durable SuperFabric design with Soft Tongue lacing system, made them a perfect match for an outdoor event. We finished his pair and shipped them ahead of schedule to ensure they arrived on time. “I just wanted to thank the whole SOM team so much for the shoes and shipping them so quickly in time for my race! They’re my new favorite shoe and I love them!”
He also shared his adventure hiking in Panama in his Norwood Classic. “I took my casuals on a walk in Panama and they performed well, very well.” What other office shoe can trek a mountain in Panama?
Adventure doesn’t wait to change shoes. No more closets filled with footwear for this and a footwear for that. SOM’s versatility means, no matter the pair, you’re ready to jump into activity feet first.
Kartik V.
Kartik is a professional cinematographer that takes him all around the world. He is on his feet for long stretches of time on all kinds of terrain, and his mid top SOM HiLites in Black provide him zero drop soles for standing upright, and wide toe-boxes for his toes to stretch and breathe while on them all day.“These shoes are perfect for me in every which way.”
He recently returned from a three-week holiday in Peru and shared how well his mid tops performed while hiking the various elevations: from the Rainbow Mountains (15,532 ft), Machu Pichu (10,112 ft.), and Laguna 69 glacier lake (15,092 ft.) “I’ve been wearing them everywhere and cannot think of any other pair of shoes to wear now. Thanks guys for making such a wonderful and comfortable pair of shoes for me.”
Merren B. of Reston, Virginia
Merren spent twelve days in Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes Parks hiking up and down rocky mountain trails, around lakes, along rivers, through meadows, and into town. “My feet stayed comfortable, dry and cool in my new SOMs, right out of the box.”
He shared with us the above photo of his lightweight Trailheads surrounded by the thick, heavy boots that his companions wore. “I kept up with them and felt as light as a mountain goat—of which we saw plenty! Thank you to the folks who made my shoes and designed my shoes. I am happy to support your business.”
With flat, flexible shoes that bend how your foot naturally bends, SOMs strengthen your movements whether they take you down main street or up a mountain trail.
Here some more information about Glacier National Park.
Thank you to the folks above who shared their stories with us. We're always curious what places your SOMs visit or what activities they get up to. Not only do we enjoy reading about your adventures, we love sharing them on our website or through social media. The more we share; the more we grow.
Tag us in your SOM adventure posts @somfootwear so we can see where American-made footwear has taken you.
We love reaching out to our SOM community because developing connections is why we exist, whether it's connecting feet to strength, shoes to nature, or community to adventure.
]]>Are you wearing shoes right now? If “no,” then you’re already enjoying the benefits of unrestricted feet. If “yes,” then take a second to remove them and feel the difference when toes are able to breathe. Do your feet feel cooler? Are you better able to relax?
One of the first things we do after a hard day's work is relieve the weight of the world from our soles. We kick off our shoes and rest our feet from not only the pressures of our footwear, but the stress of our body pressing down with every step. “Your feet are a vital part of your daily activity; they are responsible for carrying your entire body around” (andersonpodiatrycenter.com).
The amount of weight our bodies carry is compounded into our feet, meaning “1 pound equates to 4 pounds of pressure across the ankle and foot” (gotofootdoc.com). “And that is for EACH and EVERY pound.”
With that amount of stress on our bones, muscles, ligaments, and joints, it’s no surprise traditional shoe companies want to place as much padding, cushion, arch support, and shock-absorbing rubber between the ground and your foot. They believe the less you feel beneath you, the happier your feet will be, but to achieve this, they must bend, taper, elevate, and insulate your natural, barefoot posture to fit their manufactured design. A tilted, angled, or compressed foot no longer evenly distributes weight from toe to heel but leaves the pressure to fall to a singular spot, which can lead to bunions, plantar fasciitis, even back pain.
If traditional footwear adjusts our natural stance, the subtle tilts of a heel or narrow toe-box echo throughout the legs, spine, neck, and shoulders. "The toes are critical for our sense of balance,” Dr. Ray McClanahan, a podiatrist at Northwest Foot & Ankle and creator of Correct Toes explains. “When our toes are not properly spaced and grasping the ground, our legs and upper bodies are forced to make compensations for the instability of our toes and our gait is less balanced and less efficient.”
When we whip off our shoes after a long day, the joy our feet express comes from the freedom to stretch and bend without obstruction. We plant our feet normally. We stand naturally. We step with the weight of our bodies evenly balanced throughout our movements. This is the power of our bare feet, and not only can we experience it for free, but many of us are already feeling what a day without shoes feels like.
“Research suggests that as of January 2022, 59 percent of workers with jobs that can be done from home have chosen to work remotely” (shape.com). “If you're spending all your time indoors, you might sometimes feel like you've basically never worn shoes — feet can be freed from their cages at home, after all.”
Small changes, like removing our shoes, can have profound impacts on how our bodies move, heal, and strengthen.
“Going barefoot forces you to use your foot muscles — both extrinsic and intrinsic — more than when they're supported by shoes. The foot's extrinsic muscles originate above the ankle and insert into various parts of the foot, allowing for movements such as pointing the top of your foot away from your leg, raising your foot toward your shin, and moving your feet from side to side. Intrinsic muscles are found within the foot area and take care of fine motor movements such as flexing your toes and staying balanced as you walk.”
While national Go Barefoot Day is only one day out of the year, there is always an opportunity to leave your bed in the morning and return to it at night without ever wearing shoes: the 24-Hour Barefoot Challenge.
For some of us, going 24 hours without shoes is achieved several days a week, but for others, this can be a difficult task. It may take planning and a full Saturday or Sunday, but we challenge everyone to leave their shoes in the closet and experience what a full day of lounging, standing, walking, sitting, exercising, and everything in between feels like when toes are free, heels are planted, and balance is restored.
Once you have lived a day in the life of an unencumbered foot, you will have a glimpse into what we mean when we describe SOM shoes as barefoot-feel footwear.
Through our wide toe-boxes, versatile materials, and zero drop, flexible soles, we create a similar sense of foot freedom, while providing durable protection to work, hike, bike, and navigate life’s unpredictable terrain.
To feel barefoot while inside shoes for the first time can be liberating, but it can also be an adjustment, especially if you have worn restricted footwear your entire life. Books like Whole Body Barefoot by Katy Bowman, simple exercises, and the act of taking it slow are excellent ways to begin your minimalist journey.
We believe in restoring and improving the health of your feet one step at a time, and regardless if you are wearing SOMs for casual or sporty use, you will be living the benefits of the 24-Hour Barefoot Challenge 365 days a year.
Sources:
-https://www.livestrong.com/article/1011958-10-easy-ways-cut-bread-diet/
-https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/apple-diet-for-weight-loss/
-https://www.amazon.com/ab-stimulator/s?k=ab+stimulator
-https://andersonpodiatrycenter.com/2016/05/17/4-ways-weight-affects-feet/
-https://gotofootdoc.com/blog/the-effects-of-weight-on-your-feet-and-how-to-take-a-load-off-your-foot-pain/
-https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2022/02/16/covid-19-pandemic-continues-to-reshape-work-in-america/
-https://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/what-not-wearing-shoes-as-often-is-doing-to-your-feet
-https://correcttoes.com/
-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9098302/
-https://nationaltoday.com/national-go-barefoot-day/
-https://www.nutritiousmovement.com/shoes-the-list/
-https://www.nutritiousmovement.com/product/whole-body-barefoot/
]]>
Behind a desk or on your feet, from the daily commute to the office retreat, our wide toe-box design removes the workweek crunch with space for toes to spread and breathe. While other shoe companies taper their toe-boxes, forcing your feet into unnatural positions, SOM believes in space. Happy toes are free from tight, suffocating surroundings, and when your toes are happy, your feet are happy. When your feet are happy, your body is happy, and your mind can concentrate on the tasks of the day.
Through the park or around the neighborhood, from walking the dog to enjoying the nightlife, when your feet move in SOM’s barefoot-feel, zero drop soles, they strengthen under their own pace. Traditional sneakers stuff enough padding, insulation, and cushion to feel like you’re walking on pillows, dulling your steps and putting your feet to sleep. By actively engaging muscles and blood flow through barefoot-inspired motion, SOM shoes create stronger, healthier feet by simply taking a walk.
Around a track or along a sidewalk, minimalist running puts the momentum of your steps under the natural spring of your feet. While traditional running shoes taper their toe-boxes with artificial bounce and pack their heels with excess rubber to ease the shock from heel-striking, SOM shoes shift focus to the barefoot power we were born with. Forefront running propels bodies forward, allowing strides to land on the toes or the balls of the foot without putting excess force on the heel. This is how our bodies took their first running steps, and by transitioning away from heel-striking to this healthier, front-focused way of running, your feet, knees and back will continue cheering you on.
Beneath a forest canopy or up a mountainside trail, from bending over roots to scaling shifting rocks, the closer your feet are to the ever-changing terrain, the easier your steps can adapt, adjust, and advance. Traditional hiking shoes use rigid, thick-treaded soles that block your senses from the elements below, but, just as over-engineered padding insulates your movement, unbending tread impedes your ability to flex over nature. SOM’s durable materials and 8mm thick, polyurethane cup soles protect your feet from the bumps in the road while bending and breathing for improved balance and comfort.
Whether cycling through traffic or mountain biking a rocky path, the connection between your hands and handlebars is just as critical as the one between your feet and the pedals. Just like with hiking, heavily insulated shoes limit the feel of what’s beneath you, reducing reaction time and weighing down movements. Just as you wouldn’t wear oven mitts when riding, the more a shoe obstructs the natural qualities of your foot, the less control you have and the weaker your feet will be.
Whether weightlifting or box jumping, from high-intensity CrossFit training to cool down stretching, your workout is enhanced when your shoes are your spotter. SOM’s flat soles provide stability when weights are overhead, and our wide toe-boxes ensure your toes have room to spread and anchor your feet to lift confidently and safely. Minimalist materials ensure breathable flexibility from rep to round, and when your feet are light and comfortable, you can push harder and exercise longer.
Sitting, reclining, or sinking into a sofa, the less pressure your shoes place on your feet, the more relaxed they are in any position. After a long day, shoes are often the first thing we remove when stepping through the door, but when SOMs allow your feet to bend and breathe like they were barefoot, there is no rush to whip them off. We’ve had customers remove the laces from their SOMs to slip in and out of them when around the house. Lightweight design makes each pair a part of your feet without the need to over-tightened laces. Just as slippers protect without pressure, SOM creates the comfort of a shoe that feels invisible.
When one shoe can do the work of seven, your activity is never limited to what you're wearing. SOM shoes let your feet decide where they go and what they do. If SOMs get dirty, simply toss them in the washing machine on the normal setting with cold water and gentle soap, and let them dry in the shade (avoid direct heat). When your SOMs need a refresh after miles and miles of adventure, send them in for a Resoling, and we can make your favorite pair just like new.
SOM Footwear makes shoes in America with durable materials to outlast the competition. Versatility is valuable, and the more your shoes can match the variety of life, the more time you have to enjoy the journey.
Have you ever wanted to go on a safari? How about walking through a safari? The Chitwan National Park Safari puts your feet in the heart of the animal kingdom quite literally. “The name 'Chitwan' has several possible meanings, but the most literal translation of the two NEPALI words that make it up: chit or chita (heart) and wan or ban (jungle)” (https://www.junglesafariresort.com). “Chitwan is thus 'the heart of the jungle'.”
If you’re up for a true Indiana Jones adventure that can include a river boat through crocodile waters, your expert guide will help you navigate the history, plants, and animals through the vastness of open landscapes.
“The Chitwan National Park is the first National Park of Nepal, established in the year 1973 (http://www.allgudthings.com). It spreads over an area of 952 km2 and its altitude ranges from 330 feet in the river valleys to 2674 feet in the Shivalik hills. In 1984, Chitwan park was granted the status of a UNESCO world heritage site.
The terrain and plant life is diverse, making for hikes filled with variety.
“Chitwan National Park consists of tropical and subtropical forests. Sal forests cover 70% of the jungle land, whereas 20% is grasslands. There are more than 68 different types of grasses and the most common one can see during the jungle safari is Elephant grass, known for its immense heights, (which can grow up to a height of 8 meters).”
While the ground beneath you changes in elevation and vegetation, the animals you may encounter with your guide will be unlike any zoo experience you’ve ever had.
“Transferring to the Royal Chitwan National Park, you will explore one of Asia's best wildlife havens. A combination of jungle and river safaris offer a chance to see rhinoceros, four species of deer, two types of crocodiles, sloth bear, leopards, Royal Bengal Tiger – plus, with the help of an expert guide, over 450 species of exotic birds.” (https://www.responsibletravel.com)
Spotting a Royal Bengal Tiger without fences between you is not an encounter everyone would put on their Bucket List, but for outdoor adventurers, the Chitwan National Park provides the backdrop for a true safari venture.
Far from the rhinos and leopards, the Scottish National Trail will challenge hikers and backpackers on an epic five-week journey across the picturesque green landscape.
“Devised by outdoors writer and broadcaster Cameron McNeish, the Scottish National Trail is a challenging, 864 kilometre-long unofficial long distance walking route running the length of Scotland from Kirk Yetholm to Cape Wrath” (https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk).
While some will tackle the entire trek in a single outing, the trail is broken up into stages, which allow the traveler to choose how much, or how little, they wish to cross off on their first trip.
As award-winning journalist and travel blogger Yvette Webster of wayfaringkiwi.com put it, “It takes you on a journey through Scotland’s varied terrain, from the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, through cities and along canal towpaths to reach the rocky and wild heathery mountains in the Scottish Highlands.”
Villages, abbeys, stone bridges, waterfalls, while Chitwan National Park is a safari, the Scottish National trail is walking through a fantasy novel, where you feel a dragon could fly overhead at any moment.
One of the most popular travel destinations in America, Yellowstone National Park offers dozens of walking paths throughout its over two million square acres, and one of the best places to start is the Upper Geyser Basin Trail.
“This is by far the best trail for viewing hydrothermal features in the park, hosting the highest concentration of geysers in the world” (https://wildlandtrekking.com). “Many of the park’s predictable geysers including Old Faithful, Castle, Grand, Daisy, and Riverside are also located here.”
Geysers are a breathtaking natural wonder and the main attraction at Yellowstone. Not only will the collection of paths comprising this trail cover many of the best blasts, you will also witness “Morning Glory, one of the most brilliantly colored hot springs in the world.”
Magic awaits around every corner. In some places, it’s literally bursting from the ground. Now is your time to find it.
From the safari thrills of wildlife without fences to the fantasy quest through the Scottish Highlands to the natural eruptions at Yellowstone, SOM Footwear is the only made in America, zero drop, wide toe-box shoe up to the challenge. SOMs relax toes with room to breathe and strengthen feet with every natural step. There’s no better way to explore nature than under the power of your own natural sense of motion.
Escape is where walks take us–away from the noise and rushing of everyday routines and into a steady pace of collective clarity. Whether a path transports you to another time, surrounds you with wildlife, or wraps you under a forest canopy, the restorative effects found in a walk, no matter its distance, will last long after its over.
No matter where your feet take you, at home or abroad, trails etch our world in opportunities for adventure.
Sources:
https://www.junglesafariresort.com/chitwan-national-park.php
http://www.allgudthings.com/safari-at-chitwan-national-park/
https://www.responsibletravel.com/holiday/5014/nepal-trek-with-chitwan-national-park-safari
https://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/scottish-national-trail.shtml
https://wildlandtrekking.com/blog/upper-geyser-basin-trail
Have you been on an epic adventure or have a trail we should feature on our next list? We will highlight a new set of three walking destinations in future blogs, so share your stories and pictures at somadventure@somfootwear.com and they might feature in our next collection.
Happy Adventuring!
]]>
Life as a middle toe can be suffocating. Pressed between your four siblings day and night, listening to the loudest voices bolster and command from either side of the shoe.
“I am the largest toe, so you follow my lead,” Big Nail bellowed. “You go where I go. You move how I move. As the oldest and strongest, I am the captain of this foot.”
Despite us all being the same age, Big Nail kicked his weight around like a true heel, flaunting the position and power bestowed at birth.
“What about me?” Pinky cooed from the other end of the toe-box. “Doesn’t the smallest and most adorable deserve a say? I’m so delicate and cute. Without me, you’d all fall flat.”
“You can’t be serious, Pinky!” Big Nail interjected. “If we lost you, we’d barely miss a step. What work do you even do over there? I’m the one who carries us up hills and down stairs. You just sit there, clipping your tinny nail.”
Pinky huffed. “This little piggy is the only one who makes us all look good by comparison. Without me, you’d just be a row of oddly shaped growths.”
My siblings closest to Big Nail and Pinky repeated each of their respective messages, creating an echo chamber of exhaustion for those stuck between the right and the left.
Lost in the shuffle of noise and outgoing opinions, I was a toe without direction. How could I find my voice in the shadows? How could we escape our bickering when surroundings constantly squeezed us together? If only life could exist in the shower.
Under the shower rain, everything was quiet. Under the shower rain, everyone was happy.
The shower melted away the day’s events. We each could spread out, stretch, relax, and not think about the sweaty prison we were wedged into every time we left the house. Was space our problem? Perhaps we five were too close.
I thought about when arguments reached their highest pitch. We were shoved over or under our neighbor, pressed and stressed and searching for breath. How could we not argue when so much of our time was spent stepping over each other?
I was my own toe, just like Big Nail, Pinky and my other siblings. We each had our own shape, our own style. But instead of five unique toes working as one, we were forced into spaces that rubbed us red and pitted us against each other, competing to be the one who came out on top. It was no wonder we were always on edge.
And so this aggression continued, step by step. We argued at work. We complained at the gym. We bickered at the bakery. We dissented at Disneyland. Movements and memories lost in the squabble. I took the brunt of both sides and saw no end moving forward. This was all a toe was meant to feel and reserved my place amongst the shadows.
But then, on a day like any other on the calendar, my world changed.
The familiar woosh of sock air flooded our senses as the shoe tugged free. My siblings and I cracked our backs in relief only to be ambushed, shortly after, by the shoe’s return. We grimaced at the sudden, but not uncommon, reinstatement to our padded, tapered cell. But as I waited for the walls to smoosh, I found myself still waiting.
I waited and waited for that same old feeling that never came. This wasn’t like the other shoe. This was something different. No one was on top of me. No one was sandwiched against me. I had room. I could breathe. I could feel the outside breeze.
My siblings looked at me, and I knew they were thinking the same thing: How is this possible?
We stepped around the house, ran outside, and hopped onto our bicycle. Every moment was captured beneath us. We weren’t drowning in foam like before. We felt where we stood and in control of where we stepped. We walked tall and firm over the ground beneath us.
Big Nail laughed, and Pinky giggled. We were barefoot, but we weren’t. We were back under the comfort of the shower, but we were outside. None of it made sense. Never had footwear respected our needs or placed us in an environment that treated us like five individuals and not one. Every toe has its own size and its own shape and rather than confining us to the shoe’s dimensions, this shoe gave us the space to be ourselves.
Just as I wondered where this magical gift came from, I overheard three letters from above, “S…O…M.”
Every toe has a story waiting for a space to be told. SOM has given us that space. No matter where we travel or what activities we perform, my siblings and I strengthen under the power of our own weight, and no longer do I feel lost in the shadows.
]]>How do we strike a healthy pose? If we were to imagine a line drawn from our tailbone, along our spine, up to the crown of our head, this line would be as straight as possible, commonly expressed in the yoga community as Head over heart. Heart over pelvis. “Your abdomen should be pulled in. Knees should be soft, not locked. And you should be looking straight ahead, not down,” says Laura Deon, MD, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist at Rush University Medical Center (www.rush.edu). When standing with good posture, “your shoulders are down and back, hips and knees are in a neutral position with feet shoulder width apart, and your body weight is distributed evenly.”
Maintaining proper alignment is critical to our long-term health as the more we lean or hunch, the more stress we place on individual parts. Like holding a bucket of water at our side verses with an outstretched hand, it’s easier and safer to carry weight when it falls inline with our center.
Our bodies will thank us inside and out for relieving the pressures of gravity. “Aligning your spine means that you're using your muscles properly, which reduces stress on your bones and joints,” Deon says. “This decreases abnormal wear and tear that, over time, can lead to osteoarthritis as well as lingering aches and pains. Joints in your neck, shoulders, low back and hips are some of the most vulnerable.”
The freer we are to move without discomfort, the happier we feel and the more energy we have, but posture can translate even deeper.
According to Erik Peper, a psychology professor at San Francisco State University, “Emotions and thoughts affect our posture and energy levels; conversely, posture and energy affect our emotions and thoughts,” says one of Peper’s studies from 2012, and two minutes of skipping versus walking in a slouched position can make a significant difference on our energy levels (www.fastcompany.com).
“Since posture affects our mood and thoughts so much, the increase of collapsed sitting and walking–from sitting in front of our computer to looking down at our smartphones–may very much have an effect on the rise of depression in recent years. Peper and his team of researchers suggest that posture is a significant contributor to decreased energy levels and depression. Slouching is also known to result in frequent headaches and neck and shoulder pains.”
We are how we stand and it all starts from the ground up, but how does what we wear on our feet affect our posture?
If our bodies were a tower of blocks, the block at the base would decide how the others stand. If the foundation is tilted or off center, then the rest of the blocks will follow suit, worsening their balance as they reach the top.
Elevated heels of traditional footwear remove our natural barefoot ability to evenly distribute weight throughout the entire foot and replace it with the tilted, tapered structures of the product. The shoe decides how the heel should rest, how the arch should bend, and the toes should flex. The foot is a passenger in the shoe’s design, forcing the rest of the body to follow suit, adjusting to the shoe’s unique definition of level.
A bare foot is dependent on the ground. A foot in a shoe is dependent on the shoe.
The best way to achieve proper alignment is in a shoe without heels or elevated soles, known in the minimalist/barefoot-feel shoe community as a zero drop.
Zero drop footwear trusts the foundation we were born with. Rather than altering the foot to the manufacturer's design, zero drops encourage feet to strengthen themselves through the body’s own weight and movement.
“When your foot is in its natural state, with both feet ‘flat’ on the ground, your body can be properly aligned, reducing your risk of injury.” (https://www.thesole.show) “Also, a wide toe-box will allow your foot to move, bend, and work the way that it’s supposed to. Having no arch support means your shoes won’t interfere with the natural running form and spring-like mechanism of the arch.”
Freeing our feet to walk as themselves, frees our body to stand tall, and only one Colorado-made sneaker company delivers this promise with every pair we cut, stitch, sole, and ship.
SOM shoes offer flexible, lightweight, zero drop soles with wide toe-boxes to allow your feet room to breathe. By keeping your toes and heels level and closer to the ground, not only will your posture and stability improve over time, but so will your awareness and connection to the world around you.
Balance comes from the ground up, and solid foundations are built on even structures. With the confidence of better posture with every step, SOMs strengthen your feet to do more.
Sources:
https://www.rush.edu/news/power-good-posture
https://www.fastcompany.com/3041688/the-surprising-and-powerful-links-between-posture-and-mood
https://www.thesole.show/en/footwear/the-truth-about-zero-drop-shoes/
]]>
For this year’s CrossFit Games, Mary Beth is competing in her new CrossFit category: 60-64 age group. "The challenge is there and real with ferocious women who have the same goal as her," she said. This is what she loves, competing against women who have the same drive as her. “There is nothing better to improve what you do day after day.”
Her SOMs have helped her qualify for the Games, and everyday she trains in them, her feet feel better and better. “I just ran almost 6 miles in my SOMs! Never once did I think about foot pain. That is not how it used to be in other brands.”
One of the greatest challenges in the CrossFit Games is that athletes don't know what events they’ll be competing in ahead of time, so they must prepare for anything. SOMs lightweight grip on her feet don’t hold her back or slow her down when she switches between upper and lower body workouts. Mary Beth loves weightlifting in her SOMs because their zero drop soles with wide toe-boxes allow her feet to be comfortable and level for safe and confident lifts.
From week to week, she found a safe and effective balance between current capacity and workout load. If these two elements were out of sync, it could lead to injury, so it was critical for her to find a healthy dance between the two. She said, "It is challenging. But every workout, my SOM shoes meet the challenge."
Over the month of July, from weights to sled drags to box jumps, she trained every part of herself for the 2022 World CrossFit Masters Games, but one of the most important areas of focus that athletes like Mary Beth must never forget in their preparation is the mental endurance that travels a road so demanding.
“The mental side of training is the biggest challenge,” says Mary Beth. “Belief in oneself must be earned by embracing hardship. In the thick of a workout that you are falling behind in, it is quite a tough obstacle to overcome. This battle between her ears can make or break an athlete. “Challenging your mindset when this happens is crucial. Self doubt and discouragement must be seen by your awareness and then told that they will be dealt with at a later time,” she said, thinking about that internal battle that occurs in a matter of seconds.
“Shifting from that spiral of thoughts must be replaced with a phrase that gives your inner person hope. Many use scripture, others use mantras, and I commonly use phrases that are short and sweet. For example, I am one rep closer, and I am more than halfway, and I can see the finish line! Feelings and thoughts are just that. They are not who you are or who you are becoming.”
We can be our own harshest critics. We can second guess or convince ourselves we can’t succeed, but when we can take an “objective view of the challenge we are facing, it then becomes conquerable.” She reaches back to her first CrossFit Games and remembers how she felt like it was Christmas when it came time to compete.
After all the obstacles she faced over the past three years, she couldn’t be more excited to be healed and able to show her determination, dedication, and fortitude in the hope that people who are discouraged by their obstacles can see that with smart training and hard work, feeling alive and healed is possible.
CrossFitters like Mary Beth know the importance of stability and strength when competing at the CrossFit Games level. They need footwear that matches their movements, flexing over every obstacle and disappearing under every weight.
Only SOM Footwear delivers the zero-drop balance and lightweight, barefoot-feel shoe made in America to strengthen feet with every step. From smoothly transitioning from one exercise to another without slowing down, to providing space for toes to breathe, freeing the rest of the body to adapt to new challenges, SOM’s athletic trainers, like the Nutrail Air, give athletes the confidence to perform at their fullest level in a sport that measures their truest potential.
We’ll be cheering her on and if you’d like to join us and send your messages of support to Mary Beth, you can post to her social media:
https://www.instagram.com/cf_marybeth/
https://www.facebook.com/marybeth.prodromides
UPDATE: Mary Beth Prodromides is now a 5 TIME World CrossFit Masters Champion!
You can follow her workout videos and training journey in her SOMs by clicking here and see how she won her 5th Gold Medal.
]]>
“The Vacationer surveyed over 1,000 Americans over the age of 18 about their thoughts on staycations and whether they’d consider taking one this year. Of the respondents, over 67 percent of those surveyed said they already have or are planning a staycation. If you apply that percentage to the entire population of the U.S., about 173 million people are planning on taking a staycation this year.” (smartertravel.com)
Save more ways than one on a staycation.
When you protect the environment, your health, community, and bank account, you afford new vacation opportunities. By saving on things like “gas prices and flights can mean longer trips, better accommodations or more money funneled towards experiences, tours and food, which can all enhance the quality of your trip, no matter if the destination’s only 50 miles from home.” (smartertravel.com)
With all the advantages of planning your personal staycation, what ideas can help you get the metaphorical ball rolling on?
These ideas are a start, but what makes staycations truly special is the control you have over the experience.
The greatest value that comes from any staycation is that each one is a unique adventure tailored to the interests and desires of those participating. It is yours to shape however you wish. Play, relax, explore, relax, hike, eat, relax in whatever order, for however long as you wish. Instead of rushing to fit dozens of activities into a limited amount of time (resulting in a vacation that needs a vacation afterwards) you set the pace.
When you control the pace, you control your comfort, and SOM Footwear puts your comfort first by making zero drop, wide toe-box shoes in America for strengthening your feet one step at a time. Whether you choose camping, hiking, playing, or chilling, your next staycation in SOMs will treat your feet to lightweight, flexible sneakers for any setting or activity.
Share your next staycation with us by sending your epic SOM adventures to: somadventure@somteam.com
]]>
“Learning to make shoes was one of the first challenges Olie (Sense of Motion Footwear’s CEO) encountered,” recalled Nathalie (SOM’s CFO and Olie’s wife), “but this was probably the easiest one of the entire journey!”
He looked for investors to help with startup costs, and among those interested was his wife Nathalie. The two joined forces as co-owners, and one year later, had bought a warehouse, some equipment, and enough material to get SOM rolling.
Manufacturing shoes from scratch in the U.S. was no easy feat, especially shoes unconventional to traditional footwear. Despite knowing little about opening a shoe factory, Olie’s previous experience in ornamental sheet metal work had prepared him for the mechanics in setting up and maintaining a working factory environment.
He spent hours learning about the shoe industry, going to trade shows, and looking for as many Made In America suppliers as possible for the materials he would need for his designs. When fabric or equipment wasn’t available, he had to think outside the box, creating his own techniques to manufacture his vision.
Creativity is a must for anyone starting a business, in the shoe industry or in any other field.
There are few resources for making shoes in the US, but rather than stopping in their tracks Olie and Nathalie pushed forward with creative solutions to bypass manufacturing challenges, whether this involved fabricating equipment to meet their needs or utilizing materials unconventional to shoe making. Thinking differently and remaining flexible is the best way to continue innovating whenever barriers appear.
While Olie designs and fabricated the shoes, Nathalie’s role in this adventure involved the behind-the-scenes work it takes to run a business. Her degree in business administration, including bookkeeping as a trade, allowed her to understand and initiate the foundation for a solid business plan. SOM’s finances are in good hands with her, which is too often a challenge for many business owners.
While Olie designs and fabricated the shoes, Nathalie’s role in this adventure involved the behind-the-scenes work it takes to run a business. Her degree in business administration, including bookkeeping as a trade, allowed her to understand and initiate the foundation for a solid business plan. SOM’s finances are in good hands with her, which is too often a challenge for many business owners.
It is critical to maintain focus and budget accordingly to navigate the ever-changing economic landscape.
As current inflation affects everything, from supplies to their shipping, the business must adapt and adjust to these rising costs in a way that is fair to both themselves and their customers. Sometimes, this means a creative solution rather than raising prices, like SOM’s creation of different shipping options with a yearly benefits plan called “SOM VIP” for added benefits. It’s always a plus to offer customers more options to better fit their needs.
Nathalie’s greatest priority is the customer, from delivering a high quality product to creating a connected, customer service experience. SOM’s customer service philosophy comes from her, and Olie agrees that the key to any customer/business relationship is communication. If the customer is a part of your community, that person feels connected to the brand, sharing, listening, and staying involved as it grows.
Through social media, newsletters, and email correspondence, it is important to keep the lines of communication between company and customer open and active. By reading every comment and encouraging healthy discussion, there is always opportunity to learn and refine. If SOM can make something better or turn an idea into a future model, the company is greater for it, and it’s this connected philosophy that Nathalie and Olie share as they hire new members to their team. A strong work environment comes from everyone understanding the importance of their role and how it fits into the ultimate goal.
Olie and Nathalie maintain focus as their business grows and their team expands by ensuring manufacturing stays under one roof. SOM designs, cuts, sews, shapes, soles, laces, and boxes every pair of shoes. Their hands are always involved, and their eyes are ever-present for quality assurance.
The closer a worker is to the product, the better connected that worker is in its production.
If a problem is spotted, it is fixed or restarted no matter how far along it is in the process. If a customer emails or calls about an order, it’s only a few feet away to give them an update. They want customers to be as proud to buy American-made as they are to make it.
Over the years, Olie and Nathalie have seen others fail to understand the importance of taking care of customers, but to them, it’s the easiest way of doing business. Nathalie likes to say, “SOM Footwear has the best customers in the world, so they are easy to take care of.” She believes that happier feet make a better world and it’s our relationship to our planet that is of equal importance to the two of them.
Just as their shoes would impact the lives that wore them, any manufacturer must address the carbon footprint their product will leave behind. For Olie and Nathalie, they believe healthy feet must also have healthy places to enjoy, so they pushed themselves to create sustainability through every step of the process.
In addition to all of their models being vegan, by using as many America-sourced materials as possible, from their lace bands to their zero-drop soles to the SuperFabric and power knits fabrics that comprise the majority of our footwear, they supported manufactures held to a higher environmental standard than other countries.
Using fewer inserts and wrapping paper in their packaging, meant less to throw away and less to end up in landfills. They also reused packaging supplies as often as possible. By recycling shipment boxes, they lessened their need to order more (which lessened the need to produce and ship more), shrinking their carbon footprint. Saving money and protecting the environment.
Olie designed a unique feature into every SOM shoe, giving them the ability to be renewed through resoling. A shoe’s life could now be extended for many more miles of adventure, and a worn shoe would be saved from the landfill.
There are creative solutions and resources for incorporating green practices into any business. Not only is it the right thing to do, but customers are eager to be a part of it. People want to make a difference in the world, and by sharing these green opportunities, both companies and customers feel responsible for preserving the natural beauty of the planet.
One of the biggest lessons Olie and Nathalie learned in the early years of SOM Footwear was that accomplishments took time and perseverance. They had many reasons to give up, through supply shortages to a global pandemic, but it never was an option for them. Eight years later, SOM Footwear offers many new models for both casual and active lifestyles that offer a barefoot-feel and roomy toe-box to improve strength, balance, and well-being.
The future of the factory will depend on the adjustment to demand. Plans are in place to add robotics and automation, and Olie and Nathalie are confident they can sustain their growth for several years before they will need to expand. At the moment, all shoes leave the factory directly to the consumers and this makes SOM Footwear very unique in that sense.
In business, there will always be challenges, and the idea is to have the right attitude to face them. Nathalie and Olie are a good team because each one supports the other through every degree of decision. But equally healthy to their dynamic, is that they make time to recharge.
Owning a business and stress can walk hand in hand. Balancing work and free-time is vital for any hope of success. Olie and Nathalie stress this fact more than any other and make sure their team does the same.
If it’s good for the owners, it’s good for the employees, and that’s good for business.
]]>
For many, Italy holds a top spot on their list of dream vacations, and the Amalfi Coast along the Gulf of Salemo is one of the country's most popular walking destinations. With a combination of stone stairways etched into seaside mountains to “ancient mule paths connecting romantic fishing villages, it comes as no surprise that the ‘Costiera Amalfitana’ has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO” (macsadventure.com).
Amongst its many walking paths, like the Monte Molare hike that takes you high above the Amalfi Peninsula for views of Vesuvius Volcano and the city of Naples, the Amalfi Coast’s Path of the Gods, or “Sentiero degli Dei,” is its most popular, well-known trail. “Named after the Roman Temples that once stood there, this 5.2km route starts in Bomerano and takes you along the side of the Lattari mountains to Nocelle” (italy4real.com).
Lemon groves and tucked away villages scatter the landscape along this 2-3 hour hike. “The route is famous for its stunning views of the Sorrentine Peninsula and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The craggy Peninsula covered in vibrant vegetation juts out into the sea has been noted as one of the most picturesque sights in Italy” (italy4real.com)
Similar to the well-traveled paths along the Amalfi Coast, Nakasendo Way is a hike steeped in history and tradition that transports travelers through a passage of time and terrain along its ancient highway.
Nakasendo translates to “the road through the mountains,” and beginning in Kyoto, “one of Japan’s ancient capitals and to this day the cultural epicentre of the nation,” (walkjapan.com) hikers will enjoy the countryside within the heart of Japan’s Central Alps seeing farmhouses, traditional inns, homes, and architecture along the way. “Now largely forgotten and quiet, the road provides a pleasant trail through scenic countryside and also the history of Japan” (walkjapan.com).
What separates Nakasendo Way from the Amalfi Coast is its gradual progression into the present. Travelers journey along a timeline of Japan, beginning in the open space calm of a 17th century environment and slowly moving into the modern day as they reach the end marker in the bustling capital of Tokyo.
Walking destinations can drop you into nature or send you into the past, but the chance to watch the evolution of a landscape from farmhouse to skyscraper with every step is a hiking experience that sets Nakasendo Way apart.
While the previous two adventures feature towns, villages, and cities throughout history, Bryce Canyon National Park is a walking experience through the rocky hues of a natural landscape.
With dozens of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to strenuous, there is a path for everyone to explore the star attraction of Bryce National Park: the Hoodoos.
“Hoodoos formed over thousands of years by the same processes that form the features of surrounding parks. Water, ice (at varying intervals) and gravity are the forces that form Bryce Canyon. These three erosive forces coupled with the differential erosion of the four rock types of the Claron Formation produced a different morphology than that of other parks.” (desertusa.com)
These towering structures seem to be balanced by magic, creating unique vistas at any time of day. In addition to the hoodoos, archways and canyons, over 175 different species of birds frequent the area, providing ample opportunity for bird watching.
Escape is where walks take us–away from the noise and rushing of everyday routines and into a steady pace of collective clarity. Whether a path transports you to another time, surrounds you with wildlife, or wraps you under a forest canopy, the restorative effects found in a walk, no matter its distance, will last long after its over.
No matter where your feet take you, at home or abroad, trails etch our world in opportunities for adventure.
Have you been on an epic adventure or have a trail we should feature on our next list? We will highlight a new set of three walking destinations in future blogs, so share your stories and pictures at somadventure@somfootwear.com and they might feature in our next collection.
Happy Adventuring!
Sources:
https://www.macsadventure.com/us/walking-tours/europe-walking-tours/italy/amalfi-coast-walking/
https://italy4real.com/walking-the-amalfi-coast/
https://walkjapan.com/tour/nakasendo-way
https://www.desertusa.com/dusablog/hoodoos-of-bryce-canyon-national-park/
]]>This July, marks SOM Footwear’s 8-year anniversary, and during this time, we reflect on the creation of SOM and how barefoot-feel shoes can change lives.
Olie was born in France and moved to the United States with his French Canadian wife Nathalie Bouchard in 1999. After spending 3 years in Long Island, New York working in construction, they moved to Colorado to be surrounded by mountains and enjoy the high-altitude outdoors. Olie started a small metalworking company making spiral stairs, guard rails, metal countertops, and other decorative projects. In his free-time, he enjoyed practicing sports, in particular, trail running, often calling Colorado’s wide open spaces his playground.
In his mid-thirties, pain began surfacing in Olie’s lower back, which worsened, over time, the more he ran. Eventually, he was forced to give up his favorite pastime, as even walking was becoming uncomfortable.
Determined to reclaim his passion, he researched possible causes for his pain. Were they work related? From bad posture? Or was running the culprit? He searched two years for a remedy, until one day, Nathalie told him about a popular book written by Christopher McDougall, entitled Born to Run, which featured the Tarahumara Indians of Copper Canyon, who were known for their incredible feats of long-distance running in flat, thin sandals made out of tire and leather straps; some of them even ran barefoot.
After reading the book, Olie was skeptical but curious about the benefits of barefoot running. The distances these runners reached, and the terrain they covered with less than an inch beneath their feet placed a thought inside his head: Could his back pain be caused by his shoes?
On the back road behind his house, where the pavement was fairly smooth, he took off his shoes and started to walk. The walk soon turned into a jog, and then soon a run. It took him no more than two hundred yards to realize how better he felt running on bare feet.
Olie had his answer: His back pain came from the bad posture created by years of wearing thick-heeled work boots and cushioned running shoes. He was hooked on barefoot running, but before he could return to the activity he’d been forced to give up, he needed a barefoot shoe that could withstand the sharp rocks and twisted roots found while trail running.
He hunted on the market for footwear with a perfectly flat, not-too-thick sole that best simulated a barefoot-level of simplicity. But every shoe he tried had elevated heels, arch support, tapered toe-boxes, and extra cushioning that put his feet into the same unnatural posture that led to his back pain.
Then, one morning, an idea sparked into an obsession: If others weren’t making this shoe, could he make it himself?
Olie learned how to sew, scraped together mesh, Velcro, and Vibram resoling material, and within a couple of months, he had his first prototype. They may have looked like elf shoes, but all that mattered was if they worked. He went for a fifteen-mile run and returned home more excited than ever. He could run again!
His second prototype was even better than the first, allowing him to compete in five, long-distance, trail races and marathons during the same summer. If this minimalist style of shoe could help him rediscover the comfort of running and walking naturally, then it could do the same for others.
Olie pitched his shoe designs to factories, but with so many based overseas and the modern way of shoemaking, he knew to make his designs right, there was only one option, and SOM (Sense of Motion) Footwear was born. Not only would he design his own shoes to address the problems he, and countless others experienced from years spent in over-engineered shoes, but he would make them in Colorado so that everyone could enjoy a natural and stronger sense of motion.
Since 2014, SOM Footwear has been designing, manufacturing, and shipping barefoot-feel shoes around the world from their factory and outlet store in Montrose, Colorado.
After eight years, Olie, Nathalie, and the rest of the SOM Team are moving strong with new shoes, new techniques, and new opportunities to strengthen lives from the sole up.
In an upcoming blog, we will continue our anniversary celebration by reflecting on the lessons and advice our owners have collected over eight years of making handmade products in America.
]]>
SOM Footwear was recently featured in Wayfinder, a print and digital lifestyle magazine that highlights all aspects of business, food, art, culture, and adventure throughout Colorado's Uncompahgre Valley. The article was written, and its photographs taken, by photographer and SOM enthusiast, Joe Hendricks, and all of the photos in this blog were taken by him.
Joe and his wife, Rhonda, own and operate Elope Telluride, an elopement photography experience that scouts and captures the truest reflection of a couple’s relationship through small, intimate wedding photos surrounded by Colorado majesty.
The job puts Joe on his feet all day, carrying cameras and equipment to locations across the rugged and ever-changing terrain of Colorado’s Western Slope; comfortable shoes are a must. Having read the same book that inspired SOM Footwear, Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, he was hooked by the benefits of barefoot running and eventually made the switch completely to minimalist footwear a couple years ago.
Joe had tried other minimalist brands before, but when he learned there was a company that made barefoot shoes in Colorado, he had to check it out. He toured our SOM factory, taking pictures, meeting Olie and Nathalie and the rest of the SOM team, and he was struck by how homey the environment felt. Everyone worked with respect and love for each other and what they were creating. It felt like a family, which reminded Joe of his business.
Like Elope Telluride, SOM believes strong connections with customers must first start within the framework of the company: the workers, the policies, the mission statement. Customers can spot the difference between a business that believes in their product or service versus one that only cares about percentage points on a spreadsheet.
Joe and Rhonda work closely with every couple, building a connection to find the perfect backdrop for their memories, whether that’s a forest in autumn or a snow-speckled mountainside. The photos may be the final product, but the entire process leading up to that point is equally important and equally memorable and can only be reached by establishing a trusting, comfortable working relationship with their customers.
During his visit, Joe loved SOM, and when he tried on a pair of Nutrail Air, his feet fell in love as well. “The most comfortable zero drop ever,” is what he told us. They felt like they were a part of his feet. Breathable with great air flow, and their wide toe-box shape blended naturally into the rest of the shoe for a pleasing design. He also liked that our flat and flexible soles were made from one solid mold for improved durability, as other barefoot brands used multiple pieces for their soles which would eventually wear off and break away through use. The fact that SOMs could be resoled for a longer lifespan was the cherry on top.
This is what Joe likes to say when he’s showing his shoes to others. He runs in them. He takes photos in them. He lives in them. The reason he volunteered to write an article about us and spend his day taking photos of our factory was not because it is a quality product, but because it is a quality Colorado-made product. We pride ourselves on the fact that we are the only sneaker company that cuts, sews, and soles its shoes in Colorado.
We make our product to strengthen and improve foot health so people can take advantage of the outdoor beauty that surrounds us. And just like Joe and Rhonda’s business, our community motivates us to capture and sew Colorado into every aspect of what we do.
*To learn more about Elope Telluride, see their portfolio, and plan an unforgettable wedding photo adventure, please visit their website: https://elopetelluride.com/
*To learn more about Wayward magazine and read past editions, please visit their website: https://www.wayfindermagazines.com/
]]>
*Contest is now closed. Winners have been contacted.
As a small-town business, we believe in supporting locally made products, and we want to hear from you which businesses you love to support in your communities. For a limited time, we are offering a special Shop Local Giveaway!
From July 1st to July 17, when you buy any pair of SOM shoes, your order confirmation email will include a link to our Shop Local Survey. Simply complete this short survey, telling us about your favorite local business, and you will be entered into the giveaway. On July 27th, we will announce 3 winners, who will each receive a $50 gift certificate to their local business of choice; prizes will be sent shortly after.
For official rules, see below:
It’s no surprise inflation and world events have hit the gas pump hard. Prices continue climbing across the country with AAA.com tracking the current national average nearing $5 (as of June 22nd, 2022), and some cities have already hit $7. We aren’t suggesting trading in the V8 for a 10-speed, but a great way to get around without breaking the bank is by pedal-power.
Mr.MoneyMustache.com broke down a rough estimate of just how much can be saved over time through biking.
Bikes are good for your wealth. Let’s start with the bare minimum: any mileage you put on your bike instead of your car saves you about 50 cents per mile in gas, depreciation, and wear and maintenance. From this savings alone, doing a couple of bike errands per day (4 miles) in place of car errands will add up to $10,752 over ten years.
It’s a small step that builds over time to create serious savings. This same approach is true for the environmental benefits of reducing our carbon footprint through bicycling. By not producing carbon dioxide, a few pedals a day can go a long way in reducing traffic congestion, noise, and air pollution.
While the planet and wallets enjoy these moments of tranquility, our bodies reap the immediate effects of a bike ride.
Bicycling is an excellent source of raising our heart rate, which strengthens lungs and immune systems. The tougher our immune systems, the better prepared our bodies are against viruses, which in these ongoing COVID times, is still very much on everyone’s mind.
As the days bring stress from inflation, outbreaks, political discourse, and everyday living, mental health must never be forgotten in the equation, and a bicycle ride can do wonders for our mind.
From CyclingWeekly.com, “A study by the YMCA has revealed what every cyclist knows already: that exercise makes you happier, with people with a physically active lifestyle having a well-being score that is 32 per cent higher than those with inactive lifestyles” (Henry Robertshaw).
A bike ride frees us from our screens and the 24/7 onslaught of information and attention-hungry content. Our brains are left to the sights and sounds of nature. Fresh air, peace and calm.
Calories melt away when we pedal. Cyclingfitness.com estimates the body can burn between 400 to 1000 calories an hour, depending on the intensity and rider’s weight. What’s even better is the low-impact stress it has on the knees and feet. If running or walking are too harsh on your joints, mountain biking or cycling is a terrific way to challenge your body without wearing it down.
The goal is to strengthen all aspects of ourselves, inside and out. A bicycle checks all the right boxes, and SOM Footwear provides the perfect accessory for enhancing those pedaling trips.
The connection between your hands and handlebars is just as critical as the one between your feet and the pedals. Thick-treaded, heavy insulated shoes block the feel of what’s beneath you, reducing reaction time and weighing down movements. Just as you wouldn’t wear oven mitts when riding, the more a shoe obstructs the natural qualities of your foot, the less control you have and the weaker your feet will be.
SOM Footwear shoes are designed to put your best foot forward by embracing the unique shapes of our feet. A wide toe-box gives your toes room to spread and breathe. A zero drop sole at 8mm thick provides flat, even surface-contact for better posture, balance, and stability. Lightweight, durable materials made in the US flex and bend with your steps without slowing them down. All of these features combine to strengthen your feet as they move and connect you to your activity as if you were barefoot.
Our cycling customers love telling us how they switched from their previous shoes when they tried SOMs for the first time:
I originally bought these two years ago for hiking, running but since have found that these SOMs excel as a mountain bike shoe. I since have gotten rid of my Five-Ten MTB shoes in favor of these for the superior toe splay and pedal feel. Yet they have enough stiffness, padding and protection so that I won't strain my plantar fascia on the pedal or break my toes on rock strikes.- G.R. of New Britain PA.
Not only will lighter, roomier SOMs treat your feet to a barefoot-level of comfort for longer-lasting exercise, but when you’re closer to your pedals, you're closer to your sense of adventure.
Sources:
1. Henry Robertshaw, “It's official: cycling makes you happier,” New York Times Stuff Works, January 9th 2017, accessed June 23, 2022, https://www.cyclingweekly.com/news/latest-news/its-official-cycling-makes-you-happier-305862.
2. AAA.com
]]>From the New York Times, this June, “the government reported that consumer prices climbed 8.6 percent over the year through May, the fastest rate of increase in four decades” (Jeanna Smialek). From the grocery store to the gas pump to even online retailers, goods and services are getting more expensive because there isn’t enough supply to keep up with the surge in demand.
In 2020, the COVID Pandemic brought consumers indoors, resulting in fewer places to go and more opportunities to save. This coupled with stimulus checks and government assistance over the last two years, and the personal savings rate—which reflects the ratio of total personal saving minus disposable income—jumped to 26.6% in March 2021 (Catherine Tymkiw).
People were ready to spend again, and as the world began to reopen, production struggled to catch up for a multitude of reasons. “Factory shutdowns tied to the pandemic, global shipping backlogs and reduced production have snowballed into a parts-and-products shortage” (Jeanna Smialek). Because demand is so high, consumers are willing to pay more, and companies are able to charge more, resulting in added pressure when planning household budgets.
With groceries increasing, and gas prices becoming a greater issue–reaching over $7 in California and over $5 dollars in ten states (Bill Chappell)--daily costs are forcing consumers to be more selective with their spending habits. Businesses must reflect these growing spending concerns by providing options and products that value their customers’ budgets.
SOM Footwear has grown since 2014 by putting quality over pricing and longevity over quantity because what good is a cheap shoe if it only lasts a couple of weeks?
Shoes are an investment, now more than ever, and we want yours to last for as long as possible. We design our footwear to be resoleable, which means every SOM shoe is TWO SHOES IN ONE. Unlike other barefoot brands that need to be replaced when they reach their limit, SOMs deliver a second life for your favorite pair with brand new soles.
We work with you through emails and photos to ensure your shoes are ready to be resoled and how to send them to us. Once we receive them, our shoemakers remove the old soles to be recycled, new ones are applied, and we ship your pair back for miles and miles of new adventures.
By providing a unique product that outlasts its competitors, we save you time and money from having to go back to the shoe store again and again.
Because SOM Footwear does everything under one roof in Montrose, Colorado–from designing to manufacturing to shipping to resoling–we are in control of the complete process and not dependent on overseas delays that have contributed to the rise in inflation.
Shipping costs are rising along with the materials being shipped, but the closer we are to our products, and the more American-made materials we use in them, the fewer chances there are for long delays in production, which lessens the need to raise prices.
By offering multiple ways to order your SOMs, customers can choose the shipping and services that best suit their needs. Five dollar, flat rate, ground shipping for the lower 48 states means you’re going to pay the same amount whether you live on the west coast, east coast, or somewhere in between. There are faster shipping methods available at a higher cost, and our SOM VIP program is an option at the end of checkout that provides savings no other shoe company can meet.
SOM VIP is our year-long membership service that not only provides FREE SHIPPING on shoes for that year, but also includes one FREE exchange for a resizing, $5 off every next pair of full-priced SOMs purchased within that year, and one FREE resoling after your second full-priced shoe purchase (a $35 value). You’ll even receive VIP newsletters featuring pre-release shoes, allowing for front-of-the-line access to get them before anyone else.
The more a business can expand choice, the more control customers have over their purchase.
By delivering a longer-lasting product, locally made, with options for membership savings, SOM Footwear puts customers first by respecting their trust in us. Shoes are an investment that follow us wherever we travel. We at SOM Footwear value the chance to take part in your adventures. No matter where you go, SOM will be there to serve and strengthen your steps.
Sources:
Greg Glassman opened the first CrossFit gym in 2000 in Santa Cruz, California as a way of incorporating a wider range of fitness activity for a fuller degree of results (RookieRoad.com). While traditional gyms focused on components of exercise, targeting parts of the body one at a time, CrossFit dedicated its workouts to the movements that strung each activity together. This fluid range of exercises targeted muscles in quick succession: from squats activating the lower body, switching to pull-ups for the upper body, switching to box jumps for agility, switching to barbell lifts for strength. Full athletic prowess came from head to toe and made the mind and body the stars of the show.
CrossFit stripped away the elaborate equipment that crowded gyms and brought it back to basics. Bars, ropes, boxes, and medicine balls facilitated the movements but never dictated them. The body steered the workout, which meant there was nothing to hide behind. A person needed complete control and awareness of his or her actions to perform at this level, and it was through setting this high athletic bar, competition was born.
Glassman established the first CrossFit Games in 2007 in Northern California, which . Not only would it test competitors in a string of full-body challenges, but it would feature a signature element that separated this competition from all others: the power of spontaneity.
To prove the best athletes could handle anything thrown at them, competitors were unaware of the challenges they would be performing in until arriving at the event. In the first games, competitors had to do a “1,000 meter row followed by five rounds of 25 pull-ups and 7 overhead push jerks” (RookieRoad.com).
This element of surprise has continued to this day, making every year’s games more difficult than the last. From swimming to running to weightlifting to climbing to walking on your hands, competitors know every part of them will be tested. It’s this “Expect Anything” approach that highlights the mental flexibility and fortitude that is also on display. Biceps and glutes are only as powerful as the brain’s ability to adapt to its surroundings and formulate game plans on the fly. That is why the CrossFit games are the fullest measure of strength, agility, and endurance.
While the games are in a class of competition all to themself, reaching the annual event is a challenge unto itself.
Several months of qualifiers held by CrossFit gyms inch athletes from across the planet closer and closer to the main event. One such qualifier put on by CrossFit Decimate in Colorado Springs for the CrossFit Games 2022 will be held June 10th through the 12th, and SOM Footwear will be there with a booth for you to try on our latest models. As a proud supporter of CrossFit Decimate’s Masters of the Community Legends Qualifier, we hope to see you there. There is no other live competition like it.
While we’re sponsoring a qualifying event, SOM fan and four-time World CrossFit Masters Champion, Mary Beth Prodromides, is competing in her own set of qualifiers. Having already reached the medal podium six times, she is hoping for her seventh this year. She’s been wearing her SOMs through competition, saying they “did great on the rope climbs and have gotten her to the semifinals!” She’s so close to reaching the games, and we’re cheering her on every step of the way.
CrossFitters like Mary Beth know the importance of stability and strength when competing at the CrossFit Games level. They need footwear that matches their movements, flexing over every obstacle and disappearing under every weight.
Only SOM Footwear delivers the zero-drop balance and lightweight, barefoot-feel shoe made in America to strengthen feet with every step. From smoothly transitioning from one exercise to another without slowing down, to providing space for toes to breathe, freeing the rest of the body to adapt to new challenges, SOM’s athletic trainers, like the Nutrail Air, give athletes the confidence to perform at their fullest level in a sport that measures their truest potential.
]]>