Scientific Study on Benefits of Minimal Footwear

 A study published January 2019 gives scientific proof for the benefits of Minimal Footwear. 

Here's some information from the abstract (summary) of the paper.

"Weakness of foot muscles may contribute to a variety of loading-related injuries. Supportive footwear may contribute to intrinsic foot muscle weakness by reducing the muscles’ role in locomotion (e.g., absorbing forces and controlling motion). Increased stimulus to the foot muscles can be provided through a variety of mechanisms, including minimalist footwear and directed exercise."

"Minimalist shoe walking is as effective as foot strengthening exercises in increasing foot muscle size and strength. "

The full article can be found here:   https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/Fulltext/2019/01000/Walking_in_Minimalist_Shoes_Is_Effective_for.14.aspx