Updated: Inov8's CrossFit Shoe: Bare-XF 210

Inov8 released information and pictures for their future CrossFit specific shoe: the Bare-XF 210. Featuring a 3mm, zero differential sole (the height difference between heel and toe is 0, vs. many typical shoes in the 10+ mm range), and a specially reinforced upper that will handle the beatings from rope climbs, this is theoretically the perfect CrossFit shoe. Ready for the unknown and unknowable. However, the release date is supposedly March of 2012.  (update: Now available Dec 2011!) My question is: why so late? I feel that other companies (e.g. Reebok) will beat them to the punch and even if they don't, there is just too much time for being excited about these shoes and pulling the trigger to have them in hand (or on foot). While I do think they will sell, by next year there will probably be several competing brands all with similar, or even better, features. 

What do you think of the Inov8 Bare-XF 210's? Would you buy these or stick with your current Inov8s, Vibrams, Frees, etc?

Are there other features in a shoe that you would look for to aid you in CF WODs?

UPDATE 12/23/11: After seeing so many hits on this particular post, it looks like plenty of folks are researching the Bare-XF 210's. Here is Inov-8's link to the shoe, the link to Rogue's product page so you can buy them, and a video from Inov-8 showcasing the XF 210's. 

Inov-8's Bare-XF 210 product page
Again Faster: Bare-XF 210

 Rogue Fitness: Bare-XF 210

Minimalist Shoes for Running, CrossFit, even Work

New Balance 101's. Going back to the basics

By now you should know realize that a lot of running injuries are related to the type of shoe runners wear. Big, soft, cushion-y heel = heel striking = impact on the knees = "I have knee problems and can't run even though I'm 35 and should be perfectly healthy." In "What Shoes Should I Wear?" I explain why having a minimalist shoe helps maintain proper posture and form while running, thereby decreasing injury. Yes, even for a marathon it is ok to wear shoes with little cushioning.  

Shoe Matrix by the Minimalist Runner 

This is a link for a pretty darn comprehensive and up to date list of minimalist shoes. It's a very thorough list with brand names that you will recognize and ones that you won't. It also lists data such as weight, cost, and "drop." The drop refers to the height of the heel vs. the height of the toe off the ground. If it's a big drop (greater than 10mm), those refer to the traditional running shoe with lots of cushioning. Medium drops are around 4-8mm and low drops are below 4mm or even 0mm. Although there has been supply for minimalist shoes from Vibram and Terra Plana, there is now a huge surge of "barefoot running" shoes or "zero drop" shoes. Merrell, New Balance, Inov-8, and even Fila have been pushing their minimalist shoes and with spring here, runners are looking for new gear. 

 Inov-8 Road X 222

Although the intention of these companies is to hop on the bandwagon of barefoot running, I do think that they are heading in the proper direction. So whether people are joining the movement because they think it's cool or because they know it's anatomically more correct to have less padding under their heels, the net effect is a positive change. I just hope it doesn't swing back to the chunky heels of yesteryear. 

Fila Skeletoes: Because four fingers is better than Five Fingers (apparently)

Remember, if you are starting out with these new types of shoes, do NOT do any long distance running at first. Gradually work your way up to your normal mileage. Also be wary of shoes that may market themselves as "barefoot," but aren't really. Nike Free shoes are a good concept, but there is nothing barefoot-like with their 7.0's. If you go Nike Free, go with 3.0, the lower version of their Free line.

Vibram Five Fingers...for the Office?

Vibram's Cervinia model for cold weather. Now you can make paleo snow angels!

Now, you already know I'm not crazy about Vibram Five Fingers, but I know a lot of you wear them, so here is an announcement. Word on the street is that Vibrams Five Fingers is coming out with a line of "casual" wear that users can show off in the office, at bars, and yes, even in snow. Designed with the eye-catching separate-toe structure, these are sure to turn heads. New models include laces, kangaroo leather, and more running shoe-like appearances. Prices will be $100-$160 and maybe higher for the leather boots. Apparently they will not be out until fall of 2011, but you can bet loyal VFF followers will be lined up to show them off in social situations. Thanks to Gear Junkie and Birthday Shoes for the heads up!  Hit the jump for more pictures.

What Kind of Shoes Should I Wear?

CrossFit is all about going back to the basics: eat real food such as meat and veggies, and do functional exercises such as squatting and deadlifting. By going back to our roots, we are letting our bodies function and thrive on what our ancestors and genetics have been used to. In this day and age of marketing and consumerism though, it's easy to make misinformed decisions, especially when it comes to your health. So as much as you might think the Shake Weight and Slim Fast will lead to a strong, healthy body, sadly they do not.  The same thought can be applied to running shoes, specifically those used in CrossFit style workouts. Here I will examine several types of shoes and give my take on each type.