5 Myths about barefoot shoes that make you hesitate to buy them. What is the reality?

The world of barefoot shoes has changed. We are no longer talking about alternative sandals, but about a fully-fledged, modern segment of the footwear industry. It has become mainstream, with many people finding relief for their feet, knees, and back. Nevertheless, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding barefoot shoes that discourage potential customers from trying out natural movement.

As a brand that focuses on healthy and stylish solutions for your feet, Angles debunks the five most common myths that you should put out of your mind before you make the final decision to walk healthily.

 

Myth 1: Barefoot shoes cause flat feet (or do not improve them)

This is probably the most common concern, stemming from years of promotion of shoes with firm arch support.

Reality: Barefoot strengthens the arch, it does not weaken it

Traditional, sturdy shoes with artificial arch support and reinforced heels essentially immobilize the foot. The muscles of the foot (of which there are more than a hundred) cease to actively participate in flexing and stabilizing, and gradually weaken. It's like wearing a muscle corset – once you take it off, the muscle is weak.

Angles barefoot shoes, with their zero drop and wide toe box, allow the foot to work as nature intended. Walking in them simulates walking barefoot:

• Muscle activation: The foot must constantly micro-react to the terrain, which strengthens the arch muscles and improves their functionality.
• Studies confirm: Research shows that switching to minimalist footwear can increase foot muscle strength by tens of percent within months.

Key fact: Flat feet are often the result of weakened muscles, not a lack of passive support. Barefoot shoes are like permanent training for the foot.

 

Myth 2: Barefoot shoes are unsuitable for hard urban surfaces such as concrete and asphalt

Many believe that thin soles mean insufficient cushioning, and therefore walking in the city is dangerous for the joints.

Reality: Barefoot changes walking technique (and does not need cushioning)

The problem is not the surface, but the walking technique that shoes with thick, cushioning heels have forced upon us. In regular shoes, most people instinctively strike the ground hard with their heels (heel striking), which creates strong impacts that travel up to the spine.

The thin, flexible sole of Angles shoes provides no artificial cushioning, and that is precisely its advantage. It forces you to subconsciously change the way you walk:

1. Softer footfall: Instead of striking with your heel, you begin to step more gently, more on the middle or front of your foot.
2. Shorter stride: You naturally shorten your stride and increase your cadence, which reduces the overall load on your joints.
3. Natural spring: The body's natural shock-absorbing mechanisms – the arch of the foot, calf muscles, and slightly bent knees – take over the shock-absorbing function.

Conclusion: Barefoot shoes on city asphalt are not about cushioning, but about returning to proper and gentle movement. At the same time, your thin but durable sole protects your feet from dirt, sharp objects, and cold, which is completely lacking when walking barefoot.

 

Myth 3: My feet will get cold in barefoot shoes in winter

Due to the thin sole and more space in the toe area, it is often thought that barefoot shoes are only for warm months.

Reality: Warmth creates active movement and proper insulation

The temperature of the feet does not depend primarily on the thickness of the sole, but on blood circulation.

• Activity = Warmth: The freedom of movement of the toes and active work of the foot muscles lead to better blood circulation. A well-circulated foot is warmer. In narrow, tight shoes, the toes are constricted, blood circulation is poorer, and the foot cools quickly.
• Angles insulation: Modern Angles winter models are made with high-quality insulation (e.g., faux fur, wool) and often feature a special thermal insole that reflects cold from the ground and keeps heat inside.
• Room for socks: Sufficient space in the toe area (a wide toe box) allows you to comfortably wear thicker, warm socks (e.g., wool) without squeezing your toes and restricting circulation.

Myth debunked: With a suitable winter model, such as those offered by Angles, and good socks, you can have healthy and warm feet even in freezing temperatures.

 

Myth 4: Barefoot shoes are ugly and don't go well with elegant clothing

The traditional look of barefoot shoes was often associated with a "duck" shape, which disqualified them from more elegant wardrobes.

Reality: Modern barefoot shoes combine health and style

Thanks to their development and popularity, manufacturers, including Angles, are also focusing intensively on aesthetics:

• Wide toe box, subtle design: Today's barefoot models successfully combine anatomical shape (necessary space for the toes) with modern, elegant lines.
• Elegance and functionality: Angles now offers models that go well with suits, dresses, or office wear – from ballerinas and moccasins to stylish winter boots. They are designed so that the wide toe is not a dominant, distracting element, but a natural part of the subtle design.

Comfort first: You no longer have to choose between fashion and health. You can feel confident while knowing that your feet are completely comfortable and have the space they need.

 

Source: Own

 

Myth 5: Barefoot shoes are too expensive (and don't last)

Many people are put off by the higher initial price of barefoot shoes compared to regular ready-made shoes.

Reality: It is an investment in health and quality with a long service life

The price of barefoot shoes reflects several key factors that do not apply to conventional shoes:

• High-quality materials and workmanship: Angles uses high-quality, often premium materials that ensure flexibility, breathability, and durability (such as top-quality leather or durable vegan materials). The thin but extremely flexible sole requires specific and often more expensive manufacturing.
• Durability: Despite their thinness, barefoot soles are designed to be extremely resistant to punctures and wear. Ultimately, if you take proper care of your Angles shoes (see our care guide), they can last longer than cheaper shoes.
• Long-term benefits: The higher price is actually an investment in your health. The prevention of foot, knee, and spine problems that barefoot shoes provide pays off in the long run.

Think in terms of time: One high-quality, functional shoe that improves your musculoskeletal system and lasts for years has a higher real value than several pairs of cheap shoes that deform your feet.

 

Remove barriers and walk naturally

As you can see, most concerns about barefoot shoes stem from outdated myths or a misunderstanding of how the human body works.

Angles offers shoes that are designed to respect the natural anatomy of your foot. It doesn't matter if you're new to the barefoot world or a veteran. Remove these myths from your mind and give your feet the freedom and strength they deserve.

Are you ready to take that first, right step? Browse our selection and discover the Angles model that will free you from old prejudices!