You’ve probably heard about them in an ad or from a friend. “They’re like magic. They’ll melt your cellulite and make your body feel really good.” Not all these claims are necessarily accurate, but the fact is that people LOVE Mbts and Chung Shis. I’d say their best advertising is through the people who wear them and have had results they’re happy with.
Now, let me explain some of the differences between the two, pros and cons, and some important key factors to consider before you buy them.
Q: What are the differences between MBT and Chung Shi biomechanically?
A: MBT began distribution in 1996. Chung Shi was developed later. Both began as medical equipment for physical therapists and pre/post surgical therapy. As research on the product progressed, more benefits were recognized.
Mbts slowly teach your body how to stand/walk appropriately. It takes time, but isn’t terribly aggressive or difficult to adjust to. They’re quite soft in the soles, which initially makes them feel like you’re walking on clouds.
Chung Shi shoes are an aggressive approach to gait correction. It forces the body to stand and walk correctly. They’re more rigid and stabile for more control and durability.
They’re both designed to counteract the detrimental effects of walking on hard flat surfaces your whole life. The body breaks down when forced to be on such harsh surfaces regularly. Not to mention the awful footwear that is standard in the US. This Biomechanical Technology was developed as a long-term preventative/corrective solution to muscle atrophy and poor gait. So far, being quite successful across the board.
Q: What are the main benefits of the Swiss Masai and Chung Shi?
A: These shoes are designed to over time, tone and shape the body, activate neglected muscles, improve posture and gait, help with shock absorption, and help with various discomforts and medical conditions both pre and post operation.
Q: Who cannot wear the MBT and Chung Shi?
A: It varies per person. If you have concerns about wearing these shoes with your condition, PLEASE ask your doctor or therapist. Tendonitis is usually a condition that has a pretty good bet of a negative response from these shoes, but there aren’t a lot of definites. There are no guarantees. Many people have amazing results medically/physically from these technologies, but even people with the same conditions can react differently to it.
Some Pros and Cons
MBT
Pros : Cons
Softer soles : Instability medially/laterally, which may mean you’ll need an arch support in addition to the shoe. Because of the softness and 
instability, they’re only to be used on hard flat surfaces.
Build muscles around the major joints so as to ward off cartilage wear and give the body a natural shock absorption : Some major injuries and/or surgeries can interfere with the ability to tolerate muscle use
Generally an easier break-in because of softer sole and more mild transition : The soles are more sensitive to water and chemicals causing them to break down more quickly BUT can be resoled.
Chung Shi
Pros : Cons
More stability in the sole which is designed to help control gait : More rigid and aggressive; can seem quite uncomfortable at first. BUT this sensation usually dissipates within minutes of walking in the shoe, as your muscles and feet get a little more used to the idea of the SHOE controlling your gait.
The rigid sole is very durable and isn’t sensitive to water like the MBT. They’re a multi-surface shoe : Cannot be resoled as of yet.
Build muscles around the major joints so as to ward off cartilage wear and give the body a natural shock absorption : Some major injuries and/or surgeries can interfere with the ability to tolerate muscle use.
Some things to be aware of before buying: Not everyone can wear these shoes. If you have a chronic medical condition, I’d recommend asking a medical professional before making your decision about these products.
They’re also a special fitting shoe. You need to be properly sized in the style of your choice as there isn’t consistency of fit between styles. Depending on the last and uppers, you may be several difference sizes.
Also make sure you are properly trained/informed on the dos and don’ts of MBT/Chung Shi use. There are things you may need to know for specific activities you wish to use them for.
**Most Importantly!! You may also need to wear arch supports in these shoes as with any other shoe. There is “more” control in the Chung Shi arch than the MBT, but that doesn’t mean that it’s ENOUGH. You need to be properly evaluated for poor alignment in your feet or you may end up with more irritation and discomfort than before you tried the shoes. Very important. A Pedorthist can evaluate your gait at the Denver, Colorado Foot Solutions store in the Lowry Town Center.
To sum up, You should be evaluated at your local Foot Solutions store to see if you are a good candidate for either the Swiss Masai Barefoot Technology or the Chung Shis. They’re both Great products that promote better health throughout the body.
