"Which Shoes Do You Recommend?"
The subject of choosing the "right" shoes comes up frequently.
When you learn to walk naturally (as opposed to overstriding and heel striking) you discover that you don't need big fat cushioned shoes--they work to your disadvantage.
One great trick I learned from Peter Attia's podcast interview with Courtney Conley about feet and shoes is to pull the insole out of a shoe you're considering and step on it. If your foot falls over the edge of the insole, that shoe is too narrow for you.
Keep looking!
Check out Courtney's website for an extensive list of recommended shoes AND discount codes!
Cody put together some thoughts on shoe style and brand options:
Most people will benefit from shoes that have:
✅ A wide toe box (so your toes can spread naturally)
✅ Zero drop (meaning no heel lift, keeping your foot in a natural position)
✅ Minimal sole (so your feet can feel the ground)
✅ Flexibility (such that you could hold the shoe at both ends and twist it)
Some great options include:
Altra Running - (I'm wearing them for everyday and running and love them! Just make sure to avoid the ones with fat overcushioned soles--SF)
Lems Trailblazer & Trailhead (Chillums if you want something more casual)
Vivo Barefoot - Almost anything from this site will work for training. They are true barefoot shoes. You can pick what you like. I have noticed quality issues at times with this company.
Flux Adapt Trainer (Cody and Noah love theirs--SF)
Lems Prima- These are especially minimal and flexible.
Topo ST-5 Terraventure if you like a trail-type shoe with extra traction.
Bearfoot - All of their shoes have minimal soles and lots are on sale now!
Xeros--These shoes range from athletic to sandals to more dressy.
If you have any questions or need help choosing the right pair, feel free to reach out!