Xero Shoes

Inspired by the book “Born to Run,” sprinter Steven tried barefoot running. Before he knew it, he was running long distances without injuries. But not every surface felt fantastic on his bare feet. So, he decided to make some huarache running sandals using Vibram soles and attractive cords. Steven gave the first pair he made to Lena.

He said: Try these!
She said: Thanks, honey.

But she was really thinking “no thanks” as she put them away with disinterest. Until she read “Born to Run” herself; then she was intrigued. She first wore the sandals on a walk to the farmer’s market and realized how much they helped. With a few weeks of wear—gradually transitioning from supportive styles to the minimalist shoes as all wearers should—she felt her stride lightening and her body relaxing as she wore the huaraches.

The sandals were catching on with others, too. It seems everyone was realizing the benefits of wearing a minimalist running shoe: better awareness of body movement, more flexibility in the foot, stronger muscle fibers and fewer injuries. After sitting on the sidewalk of the University of Colorado making pairs for fellow members of Boulder Barefoot Running Club, Steven’s friend encouraged him to start a business. Steven initially declined but ended up pitching the idea to Lena in 2009.

He said: Let’s sell these huarache running sandals.
She said: Nah. We have enough going on already.

Steven built a website that night after Lena went to bed. Within three months, selling barefoot runners was a full-time gig. The company has since sold tens of thousands of huarache sandals worldwide and expanded its product line to include minimalist fitness shoes and casual shoes that enable your feet to sense stimuli regarding your equilibrium, position and motion.