Have you been looking for a new pair of walking shoes but find yourself in the market for one that is zero drop?
Well, the answer to that question is a huge “yes!”
First of all, the increased amount of foot movement when wearing a zero drop shoe will improve your form and reduce your chances of injury. Second, by wearing it, you are likely to be more comfortable. Lastly, it should help you avoid blisters or other painful issues too. Let’s take a closer look at how that all pans out.
Form and Technique
The less material your foot has to move over when you walk, the more natural your gait will become. That is why zero drop shoes can help you improve your form and technique with each step. A lack of material between the bottom of your foot and the ground eliminates any break-in period for these types of shoes, so you can use them right away and feel good about what you are doing.
Zero drop shoes also make you more aware of your gait, so you can improve it. Shoes with a heel that is higher than the toe compress the feet and toes, forcing them to move in an unnatural way. You may not realize it while walking, but over time this could cause problems that make you uncomfortable or even injured. But zero drop shoes give your foot room to move freely, so you can use its natural strength and flexibility to their fullest potential; this will help prevent injuries from occurring.
Comfort
Many people will find zero drop shoes to be more comfortable than other types of shoes. Most people are used to walking with a heel shoe, so when it’s time for change and they realize how great zero drop shoes feel, it’s enough to make them stick with them. They simply love how feel as compared to the flat shoe or even shoes with a heel.
Another reason people find zero drop shoes more comfortable is how they promote a healthier type of shoe gait. If you have walked in shoes that have heel counter pressure, you probably have a heel strike gait. This occurs when the heel strikes the ground before other parts of your foot (the ball of your foot, toes and arch). It can lead to knee pain or shin splints. But a zero drop shoe will help you to avoid this, because the lack of support between your foot and the ground makes you more likely to land on your forefoot.
This promotes a healthy gait that is ideal for reducing injuries and discomfort. Perhaps you have had shin splints or other foot pain issues due to footwear choices you made in the past. If so, you can change your stride with zero drop shoes; your foot will naturally land in a more relaxed position, benefiting the health of both feet and body.
Blisters
Blisters are another common problem that those who wear shoes with high heels and heel counters often report. They can be caused by the pressure that is produced by these features, as they press down on your foot. If you choose zero drop shoes instead of a shoe that has heel counters or unnatural arch support, you can avoid this.
When your foot is able to move naturally and comfortably, it won’t need added pressure to keep it stable; it will be comfortable without being forced into an unnatural position. This is one of the best things about zero drop shoes, because it means you eliminate the risk of developing painful blisters. When your feet are happy and comfortable, so can you be.
To Sum It Up
Zero drop shoes can improve your form and technique when walking, reduce your chances of injury, and promote a more comfortable gait. They are also more comfortable than heels, so you might find it hard to walk with them at first; but once you do, you’ll keep using them. They also have a longer lifespan, so you will have them for years to come.
What do you think? Have you tried zero drop shoes? Have they improved your walking form and technique, increased your comfort or reduced your chance of injury? Share your thoughts in the comments below!