**TL;DR: Whilst the concept of barefoot running seems beneficial, the actual scientific evidence is inconclusive** • Barefoot running, also called ['natural running'] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barefoot_running) is the act of running without footwear. Although it is not common in most parts of the world, it is still practised in parts of Africa and Latin America. • [Studies show] (https://breakingmuscle.com/fitness/the-pros-and-cons-of-barefoot-running-what-the-research-says) that running barefoot creates higher braking and pushing impulses, alongside the pre-activation of calf muscles. •However, a lot of these studies vary in results, and the common conclusion is that it does not make enough of a difference that everyone should immediately be switching to barefoot running. • It seems that the conclusion is that it is more of a personal preference than a conclusive set of evidence. Personally, I couldn't imagine running barefoot in the UK, especially the colder months where I'm positive my toes would freeze off!

**Barefoot running is good, but only for some** When it comes to exercise, science can only go so far. There are some truths universally accepted after conclusive evidence in support of them - no one would deny the benefits of good hydration - but other things are harder to prove. Barefoot running, essentially, is a question of choice: • [What sort of runner you are](https://www.wellandgood.com/barefoot-running/) can affect whether or not barefoot running is right for you • [Barefoot running can cause injuries much less likely to occur](https://www.newtonrunning.com/blogs/the-running-front/beware-of-barefoot-running-injuries) with shoes • Barefoot running, although freeing for some, can be uncomfortable and is unsuitable for some terrains

**Wim Hof ran half a marathon above the Arctic Circle barefoot and with only shorts on.** - Extreme cold weather athlete [Wim Hof](https://www.redbull.com/int-en/meet-the-record-holder-of-the-longest-icebath) finds barefoot running to be, quite literally, the best. He frequently runs barefoot even in extreme temperatures and snow, all as part of his system of personal physical and mental betterment. - Hof has developed techniques to control his responses to the extreme cold. Whether he has some unusual genetic ability or if this intense control is something anyone could potentially do given enough effort is not currently known. Nevertheless, he appears to have unparalleled ability to control his body with his mind and conquer extreme situations. - Since Hof is one of the most extreme of extreme athletes in the world, there may be a compelling case to be made for considering _his_ idea of best to correspond to, at least, some kind of deep superlative/best. In this case, one could be swayed into thinking that barefoot running is, indeed, the "best".