2014 Is The Shoe Year

In the wake of the 2009 best-selling book, Born to Run, minimalist footwear became a hot topic of
conversation in running circles. According to SportsOneSource, a sports industry research firm, barefoot-inspired
shoe sales reached nearly $400 million in the U.S. in 2012, a 30-percent uptick from the previous year.

To be sure, minimalist running shoes are a valuable solution for some runners, but
the numbers suggest that many are gravitating back to more traditional models. Additionally, the
industry is seeing an influx of soft, thick-midsoled shoes dubbed “maximal,” “fat,” and “high cushioned” that are appealing to runners of every ilk.

While it may seem counterintuitive, the designs of these supremely cushioned shoes are not antithetical to those of the barefoot models, but
rather showcase the melding of construction philosophies, all with a goal of keeping runners training longer and healthier



Despite the fact that these maximal shoes have a greater amount of cushioning, their heel-to-toe differential is
still generally less than many traditional running kicks (which often feature as much as a 12mm drop from heel to forefoot).
It was the barefoot movement that first brought to light the benefits of a decreased differential. Despite their design, the new maximal
shoes also turn out to be surprisingly lightweight. Maximalist converts point to the added comfort that accompanies extra cushioning, but
also to the fact that they feel less fatigued, even through long training days.


Perhaps the greatest take-away from the minimalist movement is that runners have begun to rethink cushioning, prompting brands to offer a
little something for everyone. Consider taking one of these new models for a spin in 2014. Fat shoes may just be the perfect solution for your miles