Free Your Sole with Nada Shoes

 

Have you ever run barefoot? By now you've probably at least heard of the barefoot running trend. It's not for everyone but some people swear it's better and easier on your body to run without the weight and barrier of shoes on your feet. Since most people don't really want to run barefoot in the streets or on rough terrain, companies have created shoes using minimal materials that simulate the barefoot experience while providing some protection for your tender little tootsies.

Nada shoes were designed for exactly this purpose. Nada shoes have an ultra-thin 6mm midsole and they weigh only 3.5 oz. The minimalist design claims to naturally strengthen your feet, improve posture and alignment and reduce the likelihood of injury in the long run.

 

Eco Strengths

This small company is pretty eco-progressive compared to most shoe manufacturers:

• 25% recycled rubber in the midsoles
• Recycled polyester mesh upper
• No toxic foams or adhesives used in manufacturing process
• Carrying bag made from recycled polyester
• Boxes made from 100% post consumer waste 
• Factory runs on 50% solar power

Fav Products

I am not much of a runner and I don't have a lot of interest in running barefoot, except maybe at the beach. Lucky for me, Nada makes two styles of shoes. The flagship running shoe is called the Nada but they also have a cute little ballet flat style called Zip for everyday use.

I've been wearing a pair of Zip shoes around the house. It's a perfect slipper substitute! Come warmer weather I will try wearing it on my walk over to the gym for yoga class or to the park with the kids.

Second Thoughts?

$75 to $85 a pair seems like a lot for such a minimal shoe. If I were an avid runner, I probably wouldn't hesitate but I might think twice to purchase a pair just for breezing about town.

Nada shoes are currently only available in women's styles.

Are you a barefoot runner? Have you ever tried a pair of minimalist shoes?

(Full Disclosure: I received a free pair of Nada shoes in exchange for my honest opinion.)

 

Comments

[Good Girl Gone Green]

Neat. They look so cute on your feet!

[Micaela]

Thanks Stephanie - they have some really cute color combos!

[Gems]

My hubby loves barefoot running. I am so glad I found this post as I'd love him to try these shoes. I am thinking about the lighter non-barefoot shoes for the summer too...I don't run...but I hear they are great for natural posture and allow more natural use of foot muscles.

[Micaela]

Hi Gems - Glad this post gave you some good ideas about minimalist shoes. Thanks for stopping by!

[Spokane Boot Camp]

I like these shoes. Thanks for sharing wonderful post. Great work and keep it up.

[Tina]

I actually think the shoes are so cute! As a mom, I could run in the morning, take my kids to the park and then shoot into the market, all in the same shoes.