By Darryl J. Martins, DPM, FACFAS | Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon | Interventional Foot & Ankle | Adrian & Jackson, Michigan Updated October 31, 2026 Barefoot running shoes, also called minimalist running shoes, have become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional athletic footwear. Advocates claim these shoes strengthen the feet, improve natural movement, and may help prevent injuries. But what does the actual medical research say? As a podiatrist and foot a
