New Shoes!

I just got a pair of these silly-looking things, but man are they fun! I've been walking a bit in them over the last few days and it is great to feel that connection with the earth while walking down the street or buying groceries. They are definitely conversation starters and I think Seattle has it's own unique fashion sense that I don't feel terribly out of place in them.

Today I took them out for my first run (side-note, I've been off the running wagon, so both the shoes and the running was a bit new to me). I took it easy, though, and found a slow and steady stride. I took breaks often - mostly because I am out of running shape, but the shoes felt great. It was a little weird to get used to the different stride, my whole body seemed to adjust to it, but I felt like my body was made to run more like this than with a normal running shoe. I think I will be sore in different places tomorrow, though!

I have read some of the research on "bare-foot running" and tend to agree with it, but I also just like the idea of it. Practicing yoga and practically living in bare-feet as it is right now, I usually hate putting shoes on. So it feels good to walk around in a simulated bare-foot and still feel like your feet are safe. I certainly don't think these shoes are for everyone. I know my feet have gotten strong from yoga over the years.

Note: I got Vibram's Bikila shoe because they made this one specifically for running with just a touch more padding. Also, they are not easy to put on, but it gets easier.