MBT Sandals

feature 1, Fitness Shoes, MBT Shoes, Rocker Bottom Shoes, Walking Shoes - By Chris Tarvey on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 - 20:36

MBT sandals are by far the most fun shoes in the MBT collection.  The open, sporty look to them gives the unique style of the MBT sandal a fun and fresh look.  If you don’t think you’ve ever seen an MBT sandal, try to imagine a sandal mounted on a thick, cushioned, curved sole.  While this minimizes the design concept and function of an MBT sandal, if you think hard enough, you realize, you’ve seen these and likely even wondered what they are all about.  Well, look no further, MBT sandals look different, but understanding the reasons why they are designed that way will make you jump up and rush to get a pair.  (I know it did for me!)

Where to Buy MBT Sandals

MBT sandals are very popular.  Very Popular.  Surprisingly popular!  And they are on the higher end of pricing.  So, with several new styles coming in, if you want to get a pair before they leap out of stockrooms, go to The Top Authorized MBT Shoes Retailer.  They have the best selection and prices, and a very liberal lifetime return policy (and they pay shipping for deliveries and returns).  They sell far and away more MBT Shoes than any other retailer.  You won't be able to get a better deal anywhere else.

Important Note: MBTs are the most knocked-off shoe selling online.  There are more sites selling counterfeit MBTs than authorized dealers.  These knock-offs look like MBTs in every way, except for quality of materials.  People have reported these shoes falling apart within days, and were unable to reach the retailer for a replacement or refund.  Don't buy MBTs from anyone other than authorized retails.  Check their Contact Us page.  If they don't provide a physical address, and phone number, avoid them.  MBT is working hard to shut these sites down as fast as they are popping up.  Trying to save a few dollars will cost you a lot more.  Giving your credit card information to these counterfeiters puts you at risk for credit card fraud and identity theft.  Do you really want to give your credit card information to felons?

What Makes MBT Sandals Different

They call it “Masai Barefoot Technology.”  The idea, coming from the Masai people, is that these shoes feel as though you are walking on a soft, spongy surface – similar to what you would walk on if you wore no shoes at all.  The thinking behind this is twofold.  First, your foot becomes protected by the shoe’s design because it mimics a natural walking surface and reduces stress, strain, pain, and even injuries for your whole body.  (All of that is research based, by the way!)  The second reason for this design is that in addition to creating a protected and comfortable environment for your foot, the shoe is also designed to give you a workout – to actually strengthen your entire body as you walk, and even stand. (Again, they’ve got the research to prove this.)

In truth, I was not sold immediately on all of this physiology, whole body health, and strengthening when I first saw these shoes – they looked impractical to me.  However, a friend of mine, a runner like me, swore by them – claiming that they not only felt good on but that she was running further because the shoes were working her muscles when she was not running.  In essence, wearing MBT sandals (not sneakers, folks) gave her mini-workouts between her workouts.  Okay, now I was willing to give it a try.

I purchased the Habari in chocolate.  It was tricky to get used to at first but by the end of week one – they felt great, and I was feeling the benefits in my body.

• Better posture
• Less back pain
• Improved coordination (both on and off the running course)

Over time, the benefits increased.

• Increased Power & Speed
• Improved Endurance
• Effective Training
• Better Muscle Toning
• Stronger Core Stability
• Generally Looking and Feeling Better

Not bad for a funny looking sandal.

A Word about MBT Design & Sizing

The look of the MBT sandal is the most versatile in my opinion.  Because sandals are often casual footwear to start, these shoes are not, in terms of fashion, too far off of the mark.  You get a sports shoe with the look of a casual sandal that can be work in a lot of settings, I’ve found.  The Men’s Collection of MBT Sandals is even more versatile – as casual wear, sports wear, even outdoors wear.

The sizing and feel of an MBT sandal is where it can get a little tricky.  The sizing is European but with third sizes not halves.  So you really need someone who is familiar with the shoe before you buy.  And the shoe is designed so that you have extra room at the heel, not the toe.  The point to all of this is not to avoid the MBT sandal – it’s to give it a chance.  It should feel awkward on your first wear – it is a VERY different shoe.  But if you hang with it, you will be amazed at the results.

MBT Sandal Reviews

MBT Sandals also have an incredibly loyal following.

• “Funkiest, coolest, weirdest shoe I’ve ever worn.  Also the most comfortable, durable, and practical shoe I’ve ever worn.  I’d wear them to work if they went with my suit.  Actually, MBT – you should design something that goes with suits!”
• “This is a great little shoe that really fits my lifestyle.  I live in the city and walk every wear so with MBT sandals, I get the most out of every step, and I’m not at all worn down and sore after a long hike through the urban jungle to work!”
• “Love the look of the newer MBT sandals – definitely more stylish.  I will be investing in a new pair for spring very soon.”

Very shortly, my newest pair of MBT sandals will be arriving.  The MBT Salama in Black. I got them from The #1 Authorized MBT Shoe Retailer so I know I got a great shoe at a great price.  Since that’s one less pair of MBT sandals out there for you, I’d head over there soon or you might miss out this spring!