theSIMPLEmoms: merrell :: let your feet lead you

The first day I wore these, I felt my muscles aching - in a good way - and adjusting already. I am very into the barefoot "craze" right now, and know there are many great benefits of choosing barefoot. There are so many good reasons to go "barefoot", but that is not what this post will be about today. Today I am talking about TWO simply fabulous Merrell Barefoot shoes. First, the Merrell Women's Barefoot Pure Glove.

"Designed specifically for women, our minimalist all-terrain Pure Glove adventure shoe cuts bulk while keeping bare essentials to let your feet scramble hassle-free. Add in a Vibram® sole underfoot for flexible foot protection. "

One thing I love about these shoes is the fact that they have a velcro strap. Can I get a hallelejah from all the pregnant women out there! I live in these shoes. Speaking of living in "barefoot" shoes. I am sure you have heard of some of them getting a little "stanky". Well, Merrell thought of it all. Here is what they have done to prevent the stench:

Protected by aegis microbe shield - controls odor, staining, deterioration. Keeps it Fresh. The AEGIS Microbe Shield is the revolutionary bonded antimicrobial technology:

Provides protection against odor, staining, and deterioration caused by bacteria, fungus and other microorganisms
Permanently bonded antimicrobial barrier
EPA and global registrations
Learn more at HERE

Next, I want to tell you a little about the Merrell Women's Barefoot Pace Glove.

"Best Trail Running Shoe: Shape Magazine, 2011 Shoe Guide.

Designed specifically for women, less is definitely more when exploring with our Vibram®-soled Pace Glove natural adventure shoe. All the protection your feet need from rocks and roots, and an ultra-lightweight upper with a synthetic leather foot sling for stability fits like a glove."

I can not WAIT to start running in these!! I have been walking around in them for weeks now and just can't wait to make the next move. I think it's going to be so great!

Both of these shoes are SO light, it feels like "heaven on your feet", as I once said before to a friend! :) And, they are SUPER light. So, being pregnant right now, I don't want a lot of extra weight tying me down.

OK, I know that I said I wasn't going to tell you "why" barefoot is best, but here is a little you may want to read about the "mechanics" of why and your feet. If you don't care and just simply want a comfortable shoe that does good for your feet, jump down and skip this part:

Merrell Barefoot lets your feet follow their natural instincts. Our super-light, low-profile designs create a link to your terrain to immediately stimulate muscles.

BODY MOTION MECHANICS
You are unique and so are your body and stride. Merrell believes that allowing your feet to find their natural landing pad sets you up for an optimal and more efficient stride.

STEPPING INTO THE BAREFOOT WORLD
Let your feet lead you and allow your body time to adjust while you strengthen unused muscles. Like any new exercise regimen, listen to your body and build your Merrell barefoot activities slowly. For safe adventure, log on to the Merrell Barefoot site for some useful training tips.

My goal is to get my muscles built up using these amazing shoes, and when I am not pregnant anymore and can run more regularly, I am going to move right into barefoot running. I know I will still have time that I need to build up the "running muscles", but I feel by wearing these now and weaning into it, it will really help the transition be easier.

Are you a runner? Have you thought about running "barefoot"?

Oh there is SO much information on the Merrell Barefoot site, you can spend an hour or two alone just researching it. So I encourage you, head over there and do just that! ;) You too may find yourself going barefoot!

AND AND AND...they have Kids' Barefoot shoes. I just had to point that out too! :)

Merrell Women's Barefoot Pure Glove :: $90.00
Merrell Women's Barefoot Pace Glove :: $100.00