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Minimalist Running in The Pogonip

Video of Josh Stiles of Shamma Sandals running in the Pogonip in Santa Cruz wearing minimalist running sandals.

by Hilltromper staff

March 9, 2014—You've probably heard of barefoot running—the idea that human feet are actually just fine for bounding along over great distances, while thick-soled running shoes distort our stride and actually cause injuries rather than prevent them. Barefoot runners claim they run greater distances with fewer problems, and their brethren the minimalist runners (typically shod in thin-soled shoes or sandals inspired by the huaraches of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico) are right there with them, though their feet may be cleaner and a tad less calloused.

Santa Cruzan Josh Stiles is one such believer in minimalist (also called 'natural') running. He loves it so much he started Shamma Sandals, a line of thin-soled running sandals that approximate the barefoot running experience, without the stickers and funk. Lately Stiles has been roving about the countryside making running videos. We like this one from Pogonip. It's a little rough around the edges, but it gives you a good idea of the place and the sport of minimalist running.

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