Those of us that run barefoot understand the benefits. Those of us that observe runners run barefoot (aka Barefooters) question why. Meanwhile, there is another group of (shod) runners and non-runners alike, beginning to question if “traditional” running footwear is harmful or helpful. This new blog will serve not only as a forum for discussion, but also as a congress for new design to truly aid in the return to natural, barefoot running and lifestyle. This is just the beginning. David Sypniewski, barefootrunner [at] gmail.com

Q: What’s this all about?
A: Bring the health benefits of natural barefoot or forefoot running while debunking the myths of shoes and our feet.

Q: What’s wrong with running shoes?
A: A lot. Running shoes “shield” your feet and body from the natural cushioning it’s designed for, thus increasing impact on your body than you realize. Nearly all traditional running shoes have a thick midsole at the heel which causes heel strike, another major injury cause.

Q: So… what are you saying?
A: Toss your shoes away and run barefoot! But wait, there’s more! There are things to consider first, that’s where this site comes in. Read on…

Q: I heard about barefoot running, doesn’t it hurt?
A: If you jump right into it, then in short, yes. You’ll use muscles you’ve never used before. Skora is working on a transition system to help minimize this discomfort. See below.

Q: OK, I’m onboard with this barefoot running, but can’t always run sans shoe, then what?
A: We had the same problem. There are many environmental and sometimes social reasons for wearing “running shoes”. For this and many other reasons a new solution (from personal experience) is finally materializing. An entirely different approach to defining a running shoe - or the true reason for wearing them. Keep an eye out at skorashop.com as it will launch Spring/Summer 2009.