Hi from South Africa

Welcome, Spike!  Be sure to

Welcome, Spike! Be sure to join the South Africa Chapter under the Chapters tab up top, or visit this link: http://barefootrunners.org/chapters/south-africa

It seems like we've had several new members join from South Africa these past two weeks. Exciting to have you all with us!
 
Welcome Janine!

Welcome Janine!
 
TJKind of sad in a way -

TJ



Kind of sad in a way - hardly any barefoot saffers. I seem to be the only one in Cape Town. Africa is the last continent to be invaded by Nike, Asics and all the other running shoe companies. Most Africans ran barefooted or with "minimal flip flops" and such-like. Now, it is a status symbol to wear marshmallows and running barefoot is for the uneducated and those to poor to afford running shoes. Even kids in the townships want running shoes.

In the US, we see a complete reversal and barefoot running is a growth industry. Even minimal shoes in South Africa are few and far between. I get the impression that the major shoe companies have switched their sights from the first world to the third world to push their junk over here.

I spend time in Nigeria. When I switched to barefoot, the locals were absolutely horrified. Then they scrambled for my shoes as I no longer needed them. I had more or less brand new pairs Asics and New Balances. They decided amongst themselves that the "top runners" amongst them would get my old shoes. It is sad to see them running around, wearing those puffy things now. The poorer runners amongst them are still in flip flops and water shoes. Then me now at the bottom barefoot!

Ironic as Alanis Moressetti would say.
 
The "invasion" upon Africa

The "invasion" upon Africa sounds sad for sure.
 
I hope. If anyone wants to take the lead on this group, please let me know.
 
I'm in Cape Town as well, also laboring under the illusion that I'm the only barefooter here. To be honest, in general I'm a solo runner, but I'd jump at the chance to catch up with some like-minded folks for a run or otherwise.

Can't see an easy way to message everyone in the SA chapter, so I'll post a thread there and see what takers we may have.

Cheers!
 
Not yet, Robbi. We are very close to the messaging chapters thing. Any word from Kitty about your taking over SA or helping Irma to lead?
 
Would you please email her and ask what the latest is?
 
Thanks, Robbi!