MBT? Perhaps, you've heard of the "anti-shoes" touted to increase your circulation and combat cellulite, all the while helping to align your back and neck for improved posture. I was intrigued by the claims and decided to investigate.
For starters, MBT stands for Masai Barefoot Technology. According to Wikipedia, "The Masai are an indigenous African ethnic group of semi-nomadic people located in Kenya and northern Tanzania." Hmmm... now that I think about it, I do recall my sister creating an informative poster on the Masai for junior high, and learning that the Maasai diet consisted of "meat, milk, and blood from cattle." However, I didn't see a mention of Masai shoe preference. Why are shoes being mass-produced in their honor when they go barefoot on a daily basis? Good question. It seems that the creators of MBT were impressed with the erect posture of the Masai tribe and designed a shoe with the intention of aligning the posture of those who would wear them, i.e. you and me.
According to the official US MBT website,
The positive effect of the MBT is based on the principle of "natural instability." An effect which can, in fact, be achieved without the benefit of high-tech footwear: by simply walking barefoot on soft, uneven, natural ground such as sand or moss. However, in today's thoroughly modern world this is not always easy to do - but the health benefits are significant. While wearing MBTs the body is forced to maintain its natural balance, thereby stimulating and exercising the body's supporting muscle system which results in numerous pro-body benefits.
Numerous scientific studies are available both on the MBT site and elsewhere. Remarkable improvements have been found in the areas of neuromuscular training, biomechanical therapeutic effects, osteoarthritic pain reduction, and more. However, like many other females in this media driven society, sadly, I was most interested in the following study:
"Interestingly, about 2/3 of the subjects reported a markedly improved tissue condition in the area of the cellulite. Furthermore, increased well-being and an improved quality of life were found. Almost 63% would recommend MBT for the treatment of cellulite to their best friend." - Cellulite Study: The Efficacy of Masai Barefoot Technology as an Auxiliary Therapeutic Measure for Cellulite (N. Linde, C. Stegen, CH)
While they are a bit pricey, at $245 a pair, I invested my hard-earned money in a pair of shoes that looked a little bulky and odd. My first pair of MBTs had an inch and a half heel on what otherwise appeared to be a pretty traditional looking sneaker. I couldn't wait to put them on when I received them. Did a bright light appear from the heavens shine upon me? Did angelic harps play? No on both counts, but I felt a slight tingling sensation in my feet as an initial reaction. Not a bad feeling, to imagine my circulation increasing, especially because we all know that increased circulation helps reduce cellulite (of course, so does weight training and a proper diet, but that's for another article).
Article comments
1 - diane
I was wondering if you know anything about fitflops?
2 - unconventionalpamelakay
Hey Diane! Thanks for checking out the blog! I have not tried fitflops. I'm more of a tennis shoe and/or high heel gal. I figured I'd end up wearing the MBT's, even if I bought a pair of fitflops to try, especially given that the MBT's are just so comfy. I even keep my old pair to wear around the house as slippers.lol I might would give the fitflops a try at the beach or the pool, though. However, that didn't seem to be enough wear for me to invest in a pair. They are cute! Keep me posted! ;)
3 - mbtshoes-eshop
ddd
4 - unconventionalpamelakay
Dear Mrs. Shoes, All you have to do is go to a retailer and try a pair on...you'll be a believer! That's how I became one!
PS... the new Skechers having nothing on the MBT,...the feeling for your circulaton with MBT just rocks..! ;)
5 - Unconventionalpamelakay
Since originally writing this article, I've known five teachers who purchased the skecher version of the MBTs, all at the same school. While all of them were hesistant to purchase the MBTs, because of the price; all of them have said they will purchase MBTs in the future over Skechers. Even though the Skecher Shape Ups offered many cute styles, the quality of the product was definitely lacking. In only a few months of daily wear, they needed to be replaced, while the MBTs lasted a year or better.
6 - Shawn
These shoes sound too good to be true! I realize they may be good for your feet, but really your posture is up to you! I cannot even though I am passionate about good footwear believe that one pair of shoes can do all of this and at this price I would expect that they last a long longer than a year or two.
7 - unconventionalpamelakay
Thanks, Jane! Ryn makes a similar shoe, which is also a good option! xoxo