It is ok to run without shoes at all?

[Word2Action]

Well I'm from Brooklyn and running without shoes just sounds dangerous to me . I am flat footed but I try my best to run anyway. The best I've done was 7 minute mile. For a guy my size and weight, I think thats honorable. (6'3" 235 lbs)

[CoachLevi]

There's no shortage of people running barefoot...

http://runningbarefoot.org/

[nikerunner]

I personally love running barefoot, it gets the blood flowing

[TheFron]

I think its a matter of what you're running on. If you're running on grass, sand, and dirt then they absorb the shocks and it feels comfortable probably. But definately not concrete, that not only would mess up your feet in the long run, but can get shin-splints and knees problems. Happened to my mom when she was in the navy and she wore shoes when running on the concrete

[RunningJim]

I actually know someone who has falling arches and it is very hard for him to run with shoes on because of the pressure, so he finds it a lot more comfortable to run without shoes on, on no matter what surface we are running. It is pretty impressive to me some of the different surfaces he runs on without shoes, but I guess you gotta do what you gotta do.

[sauconygal]

With the ankle injury that I had a few years ago, I could not imagine running without the support of shoes. I would probably hurt myself again!

[anuban1976]

running barefoot is good but only on grass.

[werner]

Originally Posted by mis_chiff

If you feel you run better with bare feet, I'd be looking at your shoes.
Running should be comfortable, bare feet won't allow your body to absorb
the impact properly and you may end up with problems later in life.

This man is partially correct.

However, at the same time...
If your stride is smooth, fluid, and physiologically correct, you should be able to get away with light, 2-4 mile runs in grass or sand while barefoot.

[barto]

Yes, Ok but if you feel you run better with bare feet, I'd be looking at your shoes.

[Dozz]

A lot of good runners swear by running barefoot. It is not for me.

I run mostly on trail in the woods and rural trails, none of which are developed. My feet would be mighty sore mighty fast if I went barefoot. I wouldn't even want to walk on those trails barefoot, let alone run. ouch.