Does Foot Strike Matter When Running? YES!
Research on impact mechanics have shown over and over again that there’s too many negative aspects to heel strike running than positive.
Forefoot Strike
Why Cushioned Running Shoes And Heel Inserts Are Bad for the Achilles Tendon
Cushioned running shoes, even wearing heel inserts, results in a larger heel-to-toe offset which was found to encourage force-intensive mechanics straining to the Achilles tendon as compared with minimalist running shoes or running barefoot.
More Reasons Heel Strike Running is Bad for Runners with High Arches
Research shows that runners with high arches do not produce more impact if they land with a forefoot strike, but running will always be rough and tumble if they heel strike.
Why Heel Strike Running is Bad for the Achilles Tendon
One reason heel strike running is bad for the Achilles is that at heel strike, greater compressive impact is loaded through the tendon which was found to initiate degreeatniove changes to the tendon as compared with forefoot running.
Is Barefoot Running Healthier for Your Feet?
Barefoot running is healthier for the feet because it not only makes the foot’s muscles, soft tissues, nerves and blood vessels stronger, barefoot running also engages a forefoot strike and higher cadence which prevents abnormal foot motions and postures, like over-pronation.