Legendary Bare Soles: Famous Barefoot Runs Through History

From Olympic Legends to Indigenous Warriors, Barefoot Running Has Deep Roots

Throughout history, some of the most iconic and enduring runners went shoeless. Here's a look at three famous or legendary barefoot runners and the moments that shaped running culture.

Abebe Bikila – 1960 Rome Olympic Marathon

The Ethiopian runner stunned the world by winning the marathon barefoot. He ran 26.2 miles over cobblestones and hot pavement, setting a world record in the process. Bikila’s win proved that elite performance wasn’t tied to footwear and sparked global curiosity in barefoot efficiency.

“I wanted the world to know that my country, Ethiopia, has always won with determination and heroism.” – Abebe Bikila

The Tarahumara (Rarámuri) Runners of Mexico

Known for running ultra distances in homemade huarache sandals, the Tarahumara people of northern Mexico have been documented to run 100+ miles across rocky canyons. Their resilience and technique inspired Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run, which helped spark the modern barefoot movement.

Zola Budd – 1984 Olympics and Beyond

The South African runner competed barefoot on the track, breaking several records and making headlines during the 1984 Olympics. She often stated she felt more connected and efficient running without shoes, despite criticism and political controversy.

Honorable Mentions

• Kenyan and Ethiopian youth often grow up running barefoot, building world-class form and strength.

• Pheidippides, the legendary Greek courier, likely ran barefoot during the original “marathon” from Marathon to Athens in 490 BCE.

Running barefoot isn’t new—it’s ancient. These iconic runners remind us that sometimes, the best gear is no gear at all.