Quote Originally Posted by OakLeaf View Post
I've been working up the nerve to run barefoot for a long, long time. It was a combination of things that made me finally decide I was ready to try it. I've kept the orthotics in my shoes, and I definitely don't feel like I'm ready to go without them - barefoot, my feet can move freely; in shoes, with the limited range of motion, I feel like I still need correction.
Oak - I was the same way, but two runs ago, I pulled my orthotics out of my running shoes (and replaced them with plain flat insoles from Walgreens since I'd long ago thrown out all my original insoles). As long as I pay attention to my form (mid-foot strike, light quick feet, good posture, relaxed below the knee, etc) then it's totally fine. I had highly corrective orthotics that I haven't run or hiked or played tennis without in 5 years. Two runs without them, and my feet feel 100% fine. The pain that prompted these things is no where to be seen! I don't know if it's from the barefooting or from the Chi Running efforts, but I'm thrilled!

And, the bonus? Without those things in my shoes - I have WAY more room for my toes! They can actually spread a little in my wide shoes - something they could not do with the orthotics in there.

Maybe try a half mile without them and see how you feel? It's so liberating!!