Merrell Bare Access

I have been a forefoot runner for 36 years. I never knew that it would become the recommended way to travel. In more than one of my marathons, I had would-be coaches telling me that I could not run 26.2 miles on my toes, but I did what came naturally to me.

We are very conservative here at Ridge Runner Sports into the barefoot movement. It is just not for everyone. We have seen many stress fractures and knee issues from overzealous runners. I am in favor of the latest trend of shoe manufacturers to lower the heel so that an 8 millimeter heel drop or less is the norm. However, I know that you do not need a certain pair of shoes to become a forefoot striker.

The Chi Running book offers some helpful suggestions into running form and foot strike:

1. Posture should be a straight line from the crown of the head to the bottoms of

    the feet, creating a column.
2. The column should lean slightly forward as you run.
3. As you fall forward, gently peel your feet off the ground to keep up.
4. Allow your pelvis to rotate as the movement of your legs creates a counter-

    rotation between your upper and lower body.
5. Run with your heart first to cooperate with the pull of gravity.
6. Stride length should be dynamic, increasing with speed (like gears.)

If you are fairly light weight, biomechanically efficient, and not prone to injuries, we have a new shoe by Merrell called the Bare Access. It has a 0 heel drop, but it is equipped with an 8mm midsole to disperse shock. Each shoe weighs 5.6 ozs. Merrell employs the durable Vibram rubber outsole with pods, allowing flexibility and natural foot movement. The mesh upper allows for breathability, and the Aegis antimicrobial liner resists odor. This shoe, like many Merrell products is Vegan friendly.

Visit Merrell's website to learn about their contributions to the outdoors and their products. Remember to proceed with caution, let your heart lead you, then let your feet find their right stride.