#412 Resolving Back Pain with Barefoot: Why I switched from “normal shoes” and my favorite brands with Christa Biegler, RD

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This week on The Less Stressed Life Podcast, I’m talking about how switching from traditional “normal” shoes to barefoot and transitional footwear helped me resolve my own back pain—and how you can safely make the change, too.

If you’ve ever dealt with nagging back, knee, hip, or foot pain, this episode is for you! I share what “barefoot shoes” really are (and what they’re not), how heel drop and shoe shape can impact your body mechanics, and the brands I love most—from budget-friendly finds to long-lasting options.

In this episode, I cover:

• Why traditional shoes can contribute to back and knee pain
• What makes barefoot and “foot-shaped” shoes different
• How to safely transition without injuring yourself
• My personal favorite barefoot and transitional shoes (some under $30!)
• Options for adults and kids, including those with flat feet, bunions, or foot pain

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Strong feet = a strong foundation for your entire body
• You don’t have to go all-in on barefoot shoes right away—start with transitional options
• Many great shoes now cost $20–$30 instead of $120+
• A wide toe box and zero-drop sole make a world of difference
• Strengthening your feet can improve posture, agility, and reduce pain

Christa’s favorite barefoot & transitional shoe brands:

Budget-friendly:

• Whitin (Amazon) – under $40, multiple styles
• ZYEN (Amazon) – slip-on sneaker, ~$20
• JBU water shoes – great for rivers, summer wear

Everyday & transitional:

• Merrell Trail Glove (more cushion, good starter)
• Merrell Vapor Glove (thinner sole, more barefoot feel)
• Flux – attractive everyday styles, thick sole (good for concrete)
• Storehouse Flats – ballet flats for dressier wear

Long-lasting investment brands:

• Groundies (Christa’s personal favorite overall)
• Lems – casual & mountaineering looks
• Xero – sandals, boots, casual shoes
• Wildlings – ultra-flexible, thin sole (best for mild conditions)

Kids & wide feet:

• Merrell Trail Glove kids
• Whittens boots & tennis shoes
• Xero Chelsea boots (great for flat feet)

Other brands to consider:

• VivoBarefoot – very popular for flat feet
• Bed Stu sandals – zero-drop and cute but slippery on stone

❓Questions for Christa? Submit it here: https://www.christabiegler.com/questions

WHERE TO FIND CHRISTA:
Website: https://www.christabiegler.com/
Instagram: @anti.inflammatory.nutritionist
Podcast Instagram: @lessstressedlife
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lessstressedlife
Leave a review, submit a questions for the podcast or take one of my quizzes here: https://www.christabiegler.com/links

SPONSOR:
Thanks to Jigsaw Health for sponsoring this episode! Looking for a clean, tasty way to stay hydrated this summer? Their Electrolyte Supreme is a go-to for energy, minerals, and daily hydration support. Use code LESSSTRESSED10 at JigsawHealth.com for 10% off—unlimited use!