I was reading through an older study(pdf) that looked at the low percentage of foot problems in unshod children. I also noticed where they discussed the different effects of footwear:
I saw where Terra Plana has come out with a new type of barefoot sandal – "Achilles".
It looks pretty good though it seems a bit expensive.
I should mention that sandals do alter the foot mechanics as compared to barefoot. At least this was true for the sandals in the study, which had fastenings in the front and in the back. Maybe sandals with only front fastenings will activate more foot muscles.
We did some high speed video analysis of Invisible Shoes running sandals at the Monfort Human Performance Lab… they didn’t affect stride mechanics at all (but other “minimalist” footwear did).
The difference is less because of strapping, but because of the shape, thickness, and flexibility of the sole.
Padding changes stride, stiffness changes stride, a sole that doesn’t match the shape of your foot alters stride.
BTW, we’ve got free plans to make your own “barefoot” sandals at http://www.InvisibleShoe.com
A few summers back I made a pair of huaraches quite similar to what Steven linked to above. They cost me $10 in leather, $2 in leather cord, a piece of cardboard to trace my feet and a couple hours labor. I hiked numerous 14,000 ft mountains in that pair, did some running, and wore them everywhere. A hole in the leather finally forced their retirement after a year of use. It was an awesome feeling knowing that I made my own shoes and that they held up to the trials of nature. The freedom was awesome and my feet/legs were the stronger for it. Give making a pair a shot, Matt!
Also, K-star from MWOD did an episode on flip-flops. http://www.mobilitywod.com/2011/04/episode-219365-athletes-dont-wear-flip-flops.html
Tyler,
I’ve actually got a pair of Invisible Shoes on the way!