Teva Zilch Preview - Barefoot Friendly Sandals

Here's a quick look at the new Teva Zilch sandal which will be available March 1, 2011 mid-April retailing for $80. It is being billed as the "thinnest, most minimalistic sport sandal" that Teva has ever made. It is designed to be very thin and flexible while offering great traction and protection. The hardy straps and big toe loop should securely lock down your foot too. Could this be a high-tech alternative to the primitive huarache? We haven't tested it yet, but a pair is on its way to us so we can bring you a more detailed review.

Here are a few more design highlights from Teva:

• Sole designed to grip like crazy in wet and dry environments.
• Topsole with slow recovery material to give everyone a custom feel.
• Outsole slightly wraps up for a secure fit.
• Minimal 10mm total sole from foot to ground.
• Rolls up making it a great travel shoe.

Below is an image gallery of all the photos we've got to date.  Click thumbnails to Zoom.

Whatcha ya think? Is there a need for a barefoot friendly sandal? Are sandals barefoot friendly already? Anyone think you can run in these puppies? What say you? Sound off in the comments!

HT: KayakShed.com