More than barefoot

“Barefoot” in English means “without shoes” or “barefoot.” It comes from the idea that this type of footwear allows a sensation as close as possible to walking barefoot, while still offering minimal protection from the environment. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, some brands began using the terms barefoot shoes or barefoot running to describe minimalist footwear characterized by high flexibility, little or no cushioning, and a thin sole.

It directly influences how we walk. For this reason, a functional structure is necessary, which in the case of barefoot footwear should be minimal, in order to get as close as possible to the feeling of walking barefoot.
The main characteristics of minimalist or barefoot footwear are therefore flexibility and lightness, a minimal functional structure, a thin sole, a wide toe box, and zero drop.
Our first science-backed barefoot model also includes additional comfort and protection features, such as padding and flattened seams to prevent chafing, a “U”-shaped notch to avoid pressure on the Achilles tendon, a removable antibacterial insole, and high-quality breathable materials, among others. In short, good barefoot footwear for children should protect the foot, allow mobility, and maintain the natural stability of the barefoot foot.

A functional structure is necessary because the foot can function perfectly without support, but footwear cannot. This structure helps protect and hold the foot without interfering with its natural biomechanics. Without it, the foot may shift inside the shoe, increasing the risk of falls.
Any type of footwear—including barefoot shoes—needs a structure to protect from external elements, prevent involuntary foot movement, maintain the basic shape of the shoe, and ensure durability. The key is that this structure should not be restrictive, so it continues to respect the foot’s natural movement without rigidity.

In footwear, the heel counter is the rigid, semi-rigid, or soft component located at the back of the shoe, inside the heel—usually behind the inner lining—whose main function is to provide the functional structure necessary in footwear.
At Biomecanics, we eliminate the traditional heel counter and replace it with a soft external stabilizer, allowing us to maintain the minimum functional structure required without restricting movement and eliminating rigidity.

Respectful footwear is any type of shoe that respects the foot at every stage of its development, allowing freedom of movement—whether it is barefoot or not.

For babies who are not yet walking, it’s best for them to spend as much time as possible barefoot.
When they start taking their first steps, a good barefoot model can support their development, as long as it is well fitted to their size and stage.

No. It depends on the child, their age, the terrain, and the activity.
In addition, it’s important to consider that a sudden transition to barefoot or minimalist footwear can change how load is distributed during walking. If this transition is not gradual, it may increase the risk of overload in different structures.

Yes, especially in sports or activities that involve sudden stops, quick turns, or jumping. In these cases, the foot may need more grip and lateral stability.