Zero-drop shoes are footwear that have no difference in height between the heel and the toe. Traditional shoes have an average heel elevation of 14-24mm (0.5″-1.0″), which can throw off the alignment of the spine and force an unnatural heel strike. In contrast, zero-drop shoes mimic the natural barefoot position on a flat surface, with the heel and toes level.

There are many benefits to wearing zero-drop shoes, including improved ankle mobility, a more natural running gait, better posture, improved balance, and better alignment. It is not uncommon for persistent injuries to disappear after switching to zero-drop shoes. With your heels and toes in a straight line, the foot stays flat to the ground, which corrects posture and aligns your spine, encouraging a mid-foot strike.

However, the transition from traditional shoes to zero-drop shoes may take some time, and it is recommended to ease into the new shoes. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your feet may be weak after long-term use of conventional shoes, so strengthening the feet may be necessary.

While zero-drop shoes are often associated with running, they can also be used for walking and everyday wear. It is important to note that the benefits of zero-drop shoes are only available to people who already have proper running form to begin with. For those who do not have proper running form, starting with a shoe that offers more cushioning or structural support may be a better option.

In summary, zero-drop shoes are footwear that have no difference in height between the heel and the toe. They offer many benefits, including improved ankle mobility, a more natural running gait, better posture, improved balance, and better alignment. However, the transition from traditional shoes to zero-drop shoes may take some time, and it is important to ease into the new shoes.