Nike Free 5.0

Would you train in Nike Free 5.0 shoes?

Notice that I did not ask whether you would run or walk all the time in these shoes.

According to an excellent WIRED article, Nike developed the Nike Free collection of shoes by using wafer-thin pressure sensors and high-speed video cameras to perform the most comprehensive investigation (at least at the time) into barefoot running.

The initial result of Nike’s research: Nike Free 5.0.

The number 5.0 is supposed to represent on a zero-to-ten scale where the shoes fit, with zero indicating bare feet and ten indicating a traditional running shoe.

Nike claims that running or walking barefoot (“0.0”) improves strength, flexibility, and balance.

But going barefoot also exposes you to all manner of possible injuries.

So Nike came up with the “5.0” to provide a balance between injury prevention and the benefits of going barefoot.

Nike also has a “3.0” shoe (the Nike Free 3.0) and an “8.0” shoe (the Nike Free Everyday+) for more or less training effect, respectively.

And this brings me back to my original question and comment: Nike designed the “5.0” shoe (as well as the “3.0” model) for training, not for everyday wear.

What do you think of this semi-barefoot approach? Could you imagine training in shoes like this? Do you have a pair? How far have you traveled in one journey with them? Would you recommend them to others? When specifically do you not wear them?

Please leave your comment here. Thanks!