# Chainmail Running Shoes These Protective Paleo Barefoots are Almost Like Running Barefoot By Alyson Wyers | Published 2014-07-11 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/running-barefoot References: [neatorama](http://www.neatorama.com/2014/07/10/Chainmail-Running-Shoes/) & [portal.gost-barefoots](http://portal.gost-barefoots.com/en/) According to Jörg Peitzker, the inventor of Paleo Barefoots chainmail running shoes, running barefoot is beneficial because it provides complete feedback. However, this increases the risk that you could step on something dangerous or hurt yourself. The problem with [traditional running shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supernatural-runner) though, is that they isolate the runner from the road and increase the chance of injury to joints. His chainmail runners hope to strike the perfect balance between the two by increasing path feedback while preventing you from stepping on painful things. Rubber bits on the bottom of the shoes also offer great [traction](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roam-trail-running-shoe), compared to running barefoot. The high performance running gear lets you become more connected to the environment around you while improving your health. If you are a runner, this product is definitely worth looking into. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.0/10 - Popularity: 35% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Chainmail Running Shoes:** Opportunity to disrupt the running shoe industry by combining the benefits of running barefoot with protective chainmail materials. - **Increased Path Feedback:** Opportunity to improve user experience and prevent injuries by developing running gear that enhances the feedback from the running surface. - **Environmentally Connected Gear:** Opportunity to innovate in the sports gear industry by creating products that allow runners to feel more connected to their surroundings. ### Where This Applies - **Running Shoe Industry:** Disruptive opportunity to introduce chainmail running shoes that provide the benefits of running barefoot while reducing the risk of injury. - **Fitness Industry:** Opportunity to tap into the fitness market by offering running gear that improves the runner's connection to the environment and enhances health. - **Sports Gear Industry:** Opportunity to innovate in the sports gear industry by developing products that enhance path feedback, improve performance, and prevent injuries. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Minimalist Leather Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/softstar-camino-lite-sandals.md) - [Kevlar-Constructed Trail Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naglev-veloce.md) - [Flexible Grounding Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/terra-grounding-shoes.md) - [Off-Road Barefoot Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobarefoot-tracker-textile-at-ii.md) - [Slim-Fitting Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimus-trail.md) - [Tire-Inspired Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/craft-kype-pro.md) - [Split-Toe Barefoot Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobiome-tabi-gen-01-sandal.md) - [Flexible Barefoot Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flexible-barefoot-footwear.md) - [Trail Running Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/teva-aventrail.md)