OOFOS Recovery Sandal and Shoe Review

Did you know that recovery is as important (if not more important) as your training runs.  If you don’t allow yourself to recovery properly, you increase your risk of injury.  Run training builds off your previous runs and recovery.  When you don’t properly recover, your body is building off of stressed muscles, which is when the injury can happen.  You also can’t reach your peak potential without allowing for proper recovery.  There are a few things that I have implemented into my recovery plan that might help you too.

I started stretching almost every night.  My wife and I sit down to watch tv.  I lay on the ground and stretch for about 10-15 minutes.  I also have been foam rolling more frequently, focusing mostly on my hamstrings and calves, because those are the areas that I need it the most.  Two years ago, I saw some OOFOS recovery sandals in the Road Runner Sports (Portland area) while on vacation.  Shortly after that I reviewed and posted about how awesome they are.  I have tried a few different brands, but OOFOS is still my favorite by far.  Why are OOFOS so good though?

Most foams that are used in running shoes are made to propel you forward.  The foam used in OOFOS is designed to absorb the shock (37% greater impact absorption), aka OOfoam technology.  This in turn reduces the impact on your back, knees and feet which allows you to recover faster.  The one thing that took a little while to get used to was that the arch really comes up into your foot (high arch).  This is designed to cradle your arch and take the stress off of your joints.  After about 30 minutes, it felt natural.   It is also designed to flex with your foot, which allows you to walk with a more natural gait.

Walking in my OOFOS OOriginals Sandals is like walking on clouds.  I have been running 40-60 miles per week and spent almost 5 months with Plantar Fasciitis earlier this year.  The only way I was able to continue my training and racing was taking my shoes off and slipping on my OOFOS as soon as I got home.  They are the most comfortable sandals that I have ever put on, by far.  I can’t wear most sandals with a toe post (the thing that goes in between your big toe and second toe) because they irritate my foot.  Not with OOFOS though.  Their soft, conforming toe post doesn’t chafe my foot.

The foam is durable and will last the life of the sandal without breaking down as well.  In fact, after 2 years of use they still are just as good as the day I got them, well almost.  Here are some side-by-side pictures of my 2 year old OOriginals Sandals and the new Sport Sandals.

OOFOS are not only awesome because they feel great and let you recover more quickly, but they provide other benefits as well.  They have a closed cell foam, which keeps bacteria and moisture out of your sandals.  You can use these in the shower or even throw them in the washing machine when they need a good cleaning.   You can get the OOriginals Sandals for $44.95 and the Sport Sandals for $59.95.

In addition to the Sport Sandals, OOFOS has a new shoe that utilizes their same OOfoam technology that they use in their sandals.  It comes with a 4-way stretch mesh upper that takes the stress off your feet and joints for those times when sandals are not appropriate.  The OOFOS OOmg Low Shoe costs $119.95 and there are four colors to choose from.  I really like the way they feel and they are a great choice for any occasion.  They are located in the women’s section of the website, but if you are a male who would like a pair, just order 2 sizes larger than your normal size (I’m a men’s size 10, so I ordered a women’s size 12).  The fact that these are machine washable, enables your foot to perform a more natural motion while walking, and that they are extremely light weight really makes them a winner.  In a world where runners are tearing down their feet and joints, it is vital to have a recovery product that helps you heal faster, which is precisely what you get with the OOmg Low Shoe.  I just wish I could wear these with my dress clothes at work.

Pros:

Most comfortable sandal/shoe I have ever tried

Great arch support

Many colors and styles to suit your fashion needs

Easy to clean

Foam will not break down over time (even after 2 years)

Cons:

More expensive than many sandals (but more than worth it)

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I am in love with my OOFOS recovery products and I have no doubt that you will be too.  From the cushion to the arch support, these are the perfect items to add to your running gear stash.  They have made a huge difference in relieving my tired feet and legs after my long runs.  You should definitely give them a try.  You can buy them at the OOFOS website, at Amazon, or at your local retailer (Click here to find a retailer near you).

Note:  I received this product in exchange for a review.  The review is my personal opinion of the product and I was not required to give a particular opinion of it.  I am not a doctor, so please use all of the products that I review at your own risk.