Xero Shoes’ Minimal Footwear Research Grant - American College of Sports Medicine Foundation
Forecasted
Funds research on how minimalist footwear affects biomechanics, performance, injury, and physical activity in humans, aiming to advance knowledge in sports medicine and footwear science.
Funder: American College of Sports Medicine Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2026 (annual application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: $10,000 per award | 1 award per year | 24-month grant term
Summary: Supports research on the effects of minimalist footwear on biomechanics, performance, injury, and physical activity across the lifespan.
Key Information: Applicants must be ACSM national members; open to doctoral students and early career researchers.
Description
This grant supports human research focused on the effects of minimalist footwear, such as those produced by Xero Shoes, on biomechanics, performance, injury, and physical activity throughout the lifespan. It encourages studies that investigate how lightweight, minimalist footwear influences movement and health outcomes, with the goal of deepening scientific understanding in sports medicine and footwear science. Grant recipients are expected to conduct research during the first year and participate in scientific dissemination activities, such as presenting at ACSM meetings, in the second year.
