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“Zero Drop” might sound like a novelty ride, weight maintenance program or East Village bar, but it actually describes a type of shoe. Podiatrists recommend 0 drop shoes because they provide proper alignment for your feet, ankles and knees.
These shoes naturally shorten your stride by encouraging a mid-foot or forefront strike. This creates a smoother running cadence and increases speed.
What Are They Ideal For?
Zero Drop Shoes are running shoes without a heel drop. Most casual and running shoes have some degree of drop, which refers to the angle between the heel and forefoot.
Many proponents of running shoes contend that they help runners improve their foot strike and run more naturally by shifting them away from landing on their heels. This reduces the force experienced by runners' feet and knees – believed to be responsible for many common running injuries.
Running on one's heels produces more force than striking with either a forefoot or midfoot strike.
These forces can have a detrimental effect on your feet, joints and tendons. That is why wearing lightweight shoes that provide natural support for your body is so important.
Drop shoes also offer the benefit of keeping your feet in their natural position, which can strengthen them and reduce the likelihood of injuries like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.
Benefits of Running Shoes
As a runner, you likely strive to run faster and more efficiently while also staying injury-free. Running shoes can help achieve both these objectives.
0 drop shoes are the latest shoe trend that seeks to make running more natural. Unfortunately, since they don't require any heel elevation, 0 drop shoes may not be suitable for people with issues related to arch pain or other foot-related injuries.
Traditional running shoes and 0 drop footwear differ in how well they absorb impact from landing on your feet. Traditional shoes typically send this force up through your legs and knees when landing, whereas zero drop shoes diffuse it better.
Many runners prefer 0 drop shoes over traditional footwear due to their reduced drop.
Transitioning from traditional shoes to zero drop shoes may cause some initial discomfort. It is normal and necessary that you give your feet and body time to adjust; rushing the process could do more harm than good in the end.
Why Do Podiatrists Dislike Zero Drop Shoes?
Zero Drop Shoes have become the go-to footwear choice for runners and hikers alike, particularly Altra which has gained notoriety through creating a cult following among thru-hikers on long distance trails like the Pacific Crest Trail and Camino de Santiago.
Though they may not be the most comfortable shoe, zero drop running shoes offer lightweight support and let you feel the ground beneath you with each step. That's because their low-to-the-ground sole is designed at an angle from heel to toe so that weight distribution is evened out.
This is beneficial, as you won't make any unnatural impacts with the ground that could potentially cause issues. That's why these shoes have become so popular – not only do they improve running performance but they also prevent foot pain and other issues caused by too much pressure on the feet. In conclusion, investing in these shoes is an ideal decision for anyone wanting to increase their fitness levels and reduce injury risks.
Do Zero Drop Shoes Lead to Plantar Fasciitis?
Zero drop shoes are designed to allow your feet to move naturally. Traditional running shoes often include arch supports and thick padding which may restrict motion.
Recent studies have demonstrated that switching to barefoot or minimalist footwear can help reduce plantar fasciitis symptoms. This may be because these shoes promote your feet to become stronger, which in turn prevents injuries.
Another advantage is that it can improve your walking gait, potentially decreasing stress on feet and ankles. Furthermore, it could protect against injuries to knees and lower back as well.
However, it's essential to remember that everyone's foot shape and needs are unique. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before making a decision about which shoe type works best for you can be highly beneficial.
Zero Drop Shoes for Walking
Zero drop shoes are a popular alternative to standard running shoes. These footwear options simulate barefoot walking, helping strengthen the foot muscles.
However, if you are used to traditional shoes with a high heel-to-toe drop, making the switch can be challenging. To reduce the risk of injury, it's best to do so gradually.
One way to transition is by wearing your zero drop shoes for walks, then short runs, then longer distances. This will give your feet time to adjust before engaging in a full run.
Once your body adjusts to the new shoe, running in a zero drop shoe won't cause any issues. But before that happens, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Begin by striking the ground with your midfoot, not your heel. This will strengthen your foot and reduce pain there while relieving strain on knees and ankles.
Zero Drop Shoes with Cushioning
For runners seeking a minimalist shoe with cushioning, zero drop shoes with minimal padding might be your perfect match. While these sneakers have minimal padding in the heel and forefoot, they still provide sufficient cushioning to reduce impact over long distances.
These running shoes are lighter than many barefoot running shoes, making them an ideal option for endurance athletes. Furthermore, their larger lugs on the outsole provide better traction on rough terrain and uneven surfaces.
Before making a purchase, however, give them some time to break in. Barefoot shoes can be quite stiff when first put on, so it's wise to give them several attempts so you can determine how comfortable they feel before committing.
Barefoot running shoes with cushioning are one of the most sought-after types available on the market. They give runners an opportunity to reduce injury risk and perfect their form without forgoing stylish sneakers.
Are Zero Drop Shoes Worth the Hype?
Running shoes have undergone many advancements over time, some better suited to your feet than others, while others were created specifically with one goal in mind – increasing speed when running.
The latest shoe trend is zero drop or minimalist running shoes, which leave your foot flat on the ground to simulate running barefoot. Since this can be a major adjustment for many runners, it's best to take things slow when transitioning from traditional running shoes to zero drop options.
For those with overpronators, transitioning to zero drop shoes may be more challenging as they typically lack arch support compared to standard shoes. Nonetheless, these shoes can still be beneficial if your foot structure requires it.
If you're committed to the barefoot experience, zero drop shoes can be an ideal way to improve your running form and accelerate. But it's best to ease into it gradually so as not to cause any injuries; switching from standard running shoes may take four to six weeks before full adaptation takes place – so be prepared!
Choose the Best Zero Drop Running Shoes
If you're searching for a zero drop running shoe, there are several options to consider. The ideal zero drop shoes should be lightweight and minimalist with superior cushioning.
In addition to stack height and heel drop, many runners take into account shoe cushioning. Generally speaking, a lower heel-to-toe drop indicates less cushioning while a higher stack height suggests more padding.
Minimalist or Natural running, as promoted by running form analysts such as Chi Running Instructors, reduces runners' dependence on highly cushioned and supportive running shoes. They're lighter and more flexible than traditional shoes, encouraging a more natural and efficient running style.
Zero-drop shoes encourage a midfoot strike rather than a heel strike, placing your foot and toe box more directly against the ground at impact. This is believed to increase stability and control while helping absorb shock better.
