Shoes with a raised heel change your posture by shifting your body weight forward. In the long run, this can lead to back or postural damage, chronic shortening of the calf structures, and restricted ankle mobility. 

When worn permanently, an artificially pre-formed foot bed with arch support takes away the feet's ability to support themselves. This is similar to how a cast or brace on other body parts is only useful as a short-term solution, since they’re simultaneously weakening the muscles in those areas when being worn.

Shoes with thick, stiff soles limit the natural movement of the foot and the sensory feedback from the ground. This can lead to poorer balance and higher risk of injury.

Furthermore, walking or standing in heavy, inflexible shoes can cause fatigue, muscle tension, and pain.

Barefoot shoes with a thin and flexible sole allow you to feel the ground under your feet and adjust your movements accordingly. This ground feedback reduces the risk of twisting your ankle, among other things.

The flexibility of a shoe is crucial for a natural walking pattern, allowing your foot to bend, flex, and balance. A minimalist shoe is light as a feather and therefore feels almost like not wearing anything on your feet.