Curvy Shoes

A recent study published in Nature (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-71247-9#Sec2 <%22>) called into question athletic footwear construction, specifically the toe spring. This feature, one which is pervasive amongst the majority of running shoes, refers to the upward curvature of the sole of the shoe from the forefoot to the toes. The authors utilized sandals of varying degrees of toe spring to compare resultant changes in workloads @ the MTP joint. They surmise less work is done at this joint with increasing toe spring angles. The authors suggest toe springs may weaken the foot causing susceptibility to plantar faciitis. 

Although we love research, we recommend healthy scrutiny for our applications…

•They used sandals. Most of us don’t run in sandals. 

•The authors examined toe springs with angles ranging from 10 to 40°. Athletic footwear isn’t constructed to these specs. 

•The difference in drop will impact the angle, likewise using a sockliner, which most of us do. 

•Foot strength wasn’t evaluated; hence assuming a weakening foot with use may be overreaching. 

There are several more caveats to ponder before tossing your curvy shoes to the curb!