Abstract:
Running, arguably the first competitive sport invented, remains popular even today. In its long life ruling has experienced many changes, including footwear. Over the centuries common running footwear has evolved from barefoot, to thin sandals, to thick soled modem running shoes, and today many are beginning to transition back to barefoot. Although the modem running shoe was created to prevent injury, many question if shoes achieve their goal or if it would be safer to run barefoot. A review of the research reveals that there is not one individual factor that allows researchers to label one running method as safer than the other. Science is also not the only factor that has made runners want to go barefoot; the experience while running barefoot is likely the most influential factor. I will review the research and the culture that surround barefoot running to allow individuals to establish their thoughts on barefoot running.
