Vibram Five Fingers [Archive] - Expedition Portal

lamontagne

12-23-2009, 04:31 AM

Over the course of the last 10 years or so, I have been having increasing issues with soreness in my feet. Trips to the Dr's have resulted in little to no relief in my feet, but major relieving of my wallet. Lately I have been purchasing quality footwear, which has helped immensely, but never really addresses the core problem. Thanks to the wonderous World Wide Web,I have been doing a bit of history research on my own and I have found a few interesting tid-bits. Which brings us back here to today. Foot problems are HUGE today, everybody complaining about this and that. Companies trying to sell this and that to fix or relieve this and that. And thats when it dawned on me.

Humans spread out across the entire planet, on foot, without shoes!

Maybe we werent really "made" to wear shoes? Did you know footwear as we know it (hard soles that is) has only been around for about 300 years, and only been available to the common masses for about 150?

Well...one day abit over a year ago, I happen across an ad for Vibram Five Fingers, and I was instantly in Gotta Have That mode.

A week later and I was rocking the original Five Fingers...

http://i48.tinypic.com/1j946h.jpg
http://i46.tinypic.com/2ntgtwm.jpg
http://i48.tinypic.com/23tjvq1.jpg

I was hooked. They took about 10 minutes to get used to them, then it like a baby taking my first steps. I literally had to learn to walk all over again! But once I got past that, I noticed the plantar fasciitis was markedly less, I was over pronating less, and I walked "lighter" on my feet than ever before. As much as I love these, there were some negatives. While the open tops allowed excellent ventilation, it also made them unwearable to work and sand would enter very easily. The other problem was the intergated bungie in the perimeter would put undo pressure on tendons across the tops of my feet. The was remedied by removing the bungie altogether.

I few months ago I splurged and purchased a pair of the KSO's (Keep Stuff Out). This model seems to have addressed all the issues I had with the originals and the increased thickness of the sole (4mm for the originals and 6mm for the KSO's) has made them a pleasure to wear in rocky terrain.

http://i50.tinypic.com/2vw9v86.jpg
http://i50.tinypic.com/2qmp5w4.jpg
http://i46.tinypic.com/2di3m9h.jpg
http://i50.tinypic.com/rsa6up.jpg

So the bottom line is this...

Are they Funky....Absolutely!
Are they comfy....Your opinion may vary, but they are for me.
Will you get stares, comments and questions...probably!

Sergeant_V

12-23-2009, 04:41 AM

I know I couldn't pull those off. I'm curious, though. Do they offer any arch support?

kellymoe

12-23-2009, 04:51 AM

The book, Born to Run, makes a pretty good argument for going barefoot or with something similar to the Fivefingers. I have tried running more and more barefoot and it has actually helped my bad back which is contrary to what you would think. More and more foot docs are telling patients to go with shoes with less support sighting that it's the way we were made and foot problems didnt really start until we started shoving our feet into running shoes with all kinds of artificial support. Something to consider.

lamontagne

12-23-2009, 04:59 AM

Do they offer any arch support?

Not in the sense you would be used too.
They fit VERY snugly to the bottom of your feet, so you feel them across your entire arch. The difference being that walking barefoot, strengthens the muscles in your foot and toes thereby tightening the tendons that support your arch internally (and incidentally naturally aligning your spine in the prosess). Shoes do the opposite of this, they immobilize and mitigate the muscles in your feet and toes which leads to atrophied and weakend muscles and tendons, hence the need for arch supports.

Before I go any further, please note that I am NOT an MD of any sort! And everything I am sharing is simply my opinion based on information I have gleaned from researching problems I have been experiencing with my own feet.

1speed

12-23-2009, 10:04 AM

I suffer from foot problems too. I've had Plantar's and have bouts with arthtitis in my feet a few times a year. A few years ago I switched to New Balance 970's (which are now discontinued) for trail running. They are a very light, minimally supportive trail shoe and they definitely helped my feet.

I bought a pair of the Vibram KSO's a few weeks ago but had to go out of town, then got the "flu from hell" so I've only run in them once so far. They felt a little strange at first but I knocked out five miles the first time. I did notice a few muscles in my legs that were sore that were not before so they definitely change your "geometry". I'll be back running soon so we'll see.

Flounder

12-23-2009, 10:28 AM

Our Five Finger rep gave me a couple pairs. I won't wear them. No way. I don't have feet issues largely because I've always been careful to select the proper footwear for each endeavor my feet are exposed to.

About 12 years ago I became certified as a Master Fit Systems boot fitter. Part of that process involved understanding why feet today are so hosed. It has a bit to do with footwear as you mentioned, but it also has a lot to do with the surfaces we stand and walk on. Sure, footwear as we know it today has only been around for 150 years, but think how the world's surface has changed. All day long we stand on tile, concrete, pavement, polished wood, even hard surfaces with carpet. We're not all walking around on sand and soft grass. Our feet don't articulate like they used to because they don't need to and in turn, they get weak and eventually injured. That atrophy you mention isn't just attributed to the footwear we use.

As a footnote.....just had to do that....I've heard of three rather serious foot injuries as a result of Five Finger shoes. That's three local injuries to our little town. One was a trail runner and the other two were hikers who had been suckered into them.

I see people headed for foot injuries all the time. Just yesterday a guy came into the store, said he was going to be backpacking with 50+ pounds off trail in the Grand Canyon and instead of buying a proper pack weight boot, he bought flimsy KEEN Targhees that I can fold in half like a sock. That's how you mess up your feet for life.

Good luck with your experiment, but do be careful. A podiatrist friend of ours said it best. While Five Fingers may be great for the thousands of steps you take, it won't protect you from that ONE poorly placed step you might take that could damage your feet for good.

Flounder

12-23-2009, 10:34 AM

The book, Born to Run, makes a pretty good argument for going barefoot or with something similar to the Fivefingers. .One of our customers read that book, bought some Five Fingers, used them for about 4 months and in September his podiatrist scheduled him for his first of two surgeries to repair damage likely caused by one misplaced step on a shoe with no protection. He's hoping he'll be allowed to run again in 2010.

lamontagne

12-23-2009, 12:39 PM

Flounder, you make valid points. I wholeheartedly agree with you that there is a right tool for every job.

For me, if I'm backpacking anything over 30lbs, I'm wearing my LaSportiva Trango Trek GTX's!

I find the Five Fingers work best (for me anyways) for running errands, driving, and general busy-work. But if I'm in the garage or doing yard work, I wear boots. Hiking of anysort, I wear hiking boots. And for work I wear Blundstones.

crusader

12-23-2009, 02:40 PM

The Japaneese have been doing something along these lines for many, many years. See:

http://s2.thisnext.com/media/400x400/Genuine-Tabi-Ninja-Shoes_36053AD8.jpg

Flounder

12-23-2009, 03:07 PM

The real boon for Five Fingers was the book, Born to Run, but it wasn't until Crossfit.com training systems started advocating them for their workout program that the shoes truly took off.

I don't think I'll ever bring them into the store because personally, I think for us it just sends the wrong message. For us, outdoor footwear is all about protection for hiking, trail running, climbing, backpacking, etc. These shoes are different in that they don't really protect your feet at all. Used properly, that's perfectly fine. Used carelessly, and big trouble will find your feet.

Sounds like you understand your feet.

What size do you wear? If we wear the same size you can have both of my pairs.

daniel3507

12-23-2009, 04:16 PM

Ive been wanting to try these out for awhile. Just dont have the cash at the moment. They dont look like something I would want to do any serious hiking in though.

bucketosudz

12-23-2009, 04:53 PM

The mechanics of feet can in reality be complicated. I am looking at becoming a Cordwainer for my own households benefit. My wifes toes are so misshapen from improper footwear, its a wonder that she doesn't have more problems with her feet. I am a heavy-weight and have had some sports injuries that raise their ugly heads at the most in-opportune times. I visited an MD about a possible Morton's Neuroma, that can be dreadfully painful betimes. I also was developing awful blisters between toes 4 and 5 on my Right foot. This was also due to ill-fitting footwear. And then you get into arches. It was suggested that I get White's boots and wear them religiously. Great Boots....Terribly un-comfortable for me. The high arch in the Logger style boot contributed to my first experience with Plantar Fascitis. That also is dreadfully painful, not to mention inconvenient. Soooo.... I have taken to wearing a combination of a moccasin style shoe, with a rubber sole. My footwear now couldn't be more comfortable for me. A heel counter helps support my heel during hiking and stiffened upper near the ankle supports but doesn't give a false-sense of security for my ankles. Support is made by lacing around the forefoot, by development of pattern design and the natural anatomical footbed allows for toe sensory and movement. Circulation is increased, as well as sensory for MY feet.

Although I agree with Flounders statements, that if not careful in your choice of footwear, damage can happen. However I am not ready to drink the Koolaid that I need to be in a $300+ boot or shoe made from a last that isn't only remotely close to the anatomy of my foot. I think technology and mechanics have made footwear better for some, but also poorer for some.

Thus brings in the OP subject of Vibram Five Fingers. I am encouraged that the idea behind them would be beneficial if the science behind their simplicity is continued. Are they meted for all terrain use and for every situation? Probably not, however if we look at the history of footwear for thousands of years, I would think Vibram is on to something. I would like to try them myself, but like others haven't been to the point to pay for them.

I will watch with interest to see where barefoot running, walking and the like mechanics take the shoe industry. I myself am a supporter of double soled moccasins with some form of abrasion resistant thin rubber sole. I have hiked in them, fished in them, and been largely mobile in all other pursuits with much less discomfort than I have had in expensive hiking style boots.

RAV4fun

12-24-2009, 09:07 AM

Everyone makes very valid points here...like any other footwear, VFFs aren't for everyone. For me personally, I've not looked back since switching to them almost a year ago. My journey starts like others on this thread, multiple injuries and damaged body parts leading to much money spend on boots and orthotics to try to "fix" my out of whack body. Then I started seeing a Reflexologist for a nerve problem in my right hand as a result of being a stubborn SOB combined with computer jobs and too much mousing...after she fixed my hand by poking my feet, not only was I convinced of the validity of Reflexology, but she also touted the idea of wearing shoes that let your feet flex as naturally as possible.

She was talking about things like the old Vans slip ons, or Converse Chuck Taylors, etc...at this point I was wearing Chaco's and Blundstones with serious inserts...so this was a major shift in thinking. I decided to give it a shot, and started REALLY SLOW by walking barefoot at home only. Then I got a pair of Sanuk Sidewalk surfers (flip flops with a canvas upper) that I wore for work only, so not much walking...then I found Fivefingers and thought I'd give them a shot for occasional use, just to help train my feet and lower leg muscles.

For some backstory, I spent 2 years as a bootfitter at the REI in downtown Seattle (flagship store) where we were trained to get people into the stiffest, must supportive shoe that was appropriate for their uses...

After a total of well over a year now, I wear my VFFs almost daily for walking around Jerusalem (which is paved in super hard granite and pavement), I walk anywhere from 2-5 miles each and every day and am doing great.

The pain caused by my 3 main injuries has backed off to the point where I only talk about two of them. I tore my rotator cuff in a job site injury, have a bulging disc in my lumbar, and have pretty much no usable cartilege left in my left knee. The shoulder and associated issues are basically gone, and the lumbar only really bothers me when I fly. The knee is a different story, I don't think any footwear is going to make a serious impact on that one.

To end this semi-incoherent ramble, going barefoot whenever possible and wearing my VFFs has helped me immensely. I walk everywhere in them, hike in them (no multiday trips yet, but I'm working on that), and wear them to work. If I can't wear them, I wear the softest, floppiest shoe I can find that will work in the situation at hand (have some Keen boots that I use in wet weather, etc...).

Bottom line, if you're thinking about trying barefootin'...just do it! But start slowly, remembering the muscles in your feet and lower legs are likely atrophied from lack of use over the years, and if it works as well for you as for me, lucky you! If not, go with what works.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6PWH11ypXJY/Slaahh1HqgI/AAAAAAAABD8/JBOxuUEZUIU/s720/IMG_0268.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_6PWH11ypXJY/SsuZ6shRIoI/AAAAAAAABhQ/JvjMGTtxm7A/s512/IMG_0602.JPG
Judean Desert viewpoint in Mizpeh Jericho

grouch

04-09-2010, 08:39 PM

I have been wanting to try them out but was in no hurry getting them. Winter time in CT is no place for a slipper like this. Got a pair today and they feel awesome. I can't wait to put the miles on them. I bought them for track walking in the evenings and so far I think I made the right call. My only complaint so far is the color, I had to get black as that is all REI had and the things are on pretty much a national back order. If they end up working out, I plan on getting another pair in a different style for trail running and hiking.

Life_in_4Lo

04-10-2010, 01:37 AM

I always wondered why every animal on the face of the planet is ok with bare feet except us!
It's amazing that our species has lost the ability to self-propel without artificial assistance!
I want to try the Vibram shoes because it makes a lot of sense. Their links to articles are interesting too
http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/news/index.cfm

However, I agree with all the good points about tough boots and protective footwear too.
Maybe there is a more "crossover" version that will appear to appease the transition?

motochain

04-11-2010, 10:17 PM

Hey there are other people out there that wear them!!!!

I've been wearing them and getting strange looks for a bit over a year now and haven't seen another person besides myself sporting them. I have managed to talk a coworker into buying a pair but he fell off the wagon and quit wearing them shortly after getting them.

I love them! Feels just like walking without shoes on minus having to worry about stepping on sharp objects.

BEWARE THOUGH!!!! You're feet will eventually start to stink!

grouch

04-27-2010, 02:39 AM

Well I decided mine are not for me. After wearing them for a couple hours my feet start swelling making the toe pockets squeeze my little piggies a little more than is comfortable. They started hurting my toes so it seems that finger shoes aren't the way I will be shod from here on out.

xcmountain80

04-27-2010, 02:57 AM

What happens if you step in poo?

A

photoman

04-27-2010, 03:23 AM

What happens if you step in poo?

A

Its easier to clean off Five Fingers than out of deep soles of hiking boots. :victory:

Like any shoe or tool there is no one boot fits every situation. hence the reason there are running shoes, wrestling shoes, soccer cleats, high tops, work boots, and hiking boots- to name just a few. In each of the categories there are several different concepts as well. These are just another category and they will not work for everyone or every situation.

I have a set of KSO and will probably get a pair of the KSO Treks to see how the new hard sole does on more jagged rocks. I would be leery of wearing my FF in an area of jagged rocks, cactus, and around old buildings where nails and other nasty stuff can do damage to your feet. Same is true in situations such as walking along long stretches of river rocks where twisting an ankle or having rocks roll out from under you or onto your feet are a concern. These however are great in sandy conditions and have provided much better feel when descending loose washout areas. On rock such as granite and sandstone they are simply awesome as you really feel the rock contours which improves your foot placement and overall balance. I am still interested to see how they do on wet rocks such as boulder hoping along oak creek but I have yet to try that out.

So while they are not the best shoe for every situation I am very pleased that I purchased them and as mentioned I plan to purchase a different model as well.

Oh yeah- these are a hell of a lot more comfortable to wear while driving than a pair of clunky hiking boots too. Just have to get use to your toes wrapping around the pedals.

6Pins

04-27-2010, 12:54 PM

I'm thinking about getting a pair, they look pretty comfortable. I'm pretty much barefoot all day long at home and work standing up at my desk. I'm usually in some kind of un-constructed shoe when I have to wear shoes (mocs, Converse canvas shoes, etc. and I've been doing this since I was a kid.

I'm curious to know how much support the shoes give to the heel pad area? Since I've got some gnarly callous' on my feet, the only problem I really get is heel cracks, so if they can support that, I'm in.

djrez4

04-27-2010, 03:20 PM

I've had a pair since they were first available in Boulder. I run in them. I've day-hiked in them. I've worn them around town.

I consider them to be another tool in my footwear arsenal. They have strengthened my feet and calves and improved my running speed and form.

When I head out with a heavy pack into unknown territory, however, you better believe I save them for camp shoes and strap on my full grain boots.

I agree that both modern shoes and modern surfaces have contributed to the destruction of our feet. When it comes to working toward a solution to foot problems, I think it's much easier to modify your shoes than it is to modify the surface of the planet.

IZZYDUSIT

04-27-2010, 10:35 PM

I liked the idea since I love to kayak and regular water sandals are too big for my cockpit, problem was, I couldn't wear them past my bunions..lol

pskhaat

04-27-2010, 10:52 PM

...was going to be backpacking with 50+ pounds off trail in the Grand Canyon...

I love being in the canyon but anyone who takes 50 pounds in:

http://images.travelpod.com/users/yah27/europe_-2007.1198927140.dumb-dumb.jpg

Bhos

05-02-2010, 10:38 PM

I've had a pair of these (KSO) for about a month now and love them. It's nice to have something this light airy to workout in. I do lifting, sprints, walks/light hikes, and heavy crossfit in them. Yes, they are "weird" looking, fiancee hates 'em, and are not for all terrain, but they do strengthen your feet. I have noticed that my foot strike has changed to include more of the front of my foot, rather than just heel and ball of big toe. That feels better to me. I'm looking forward to finding more places to use them. Very comfortable, but if you have overly flat feet, they may not be the best for you.

YJake

06-07-2010, 08:37 PM

I'm going to have to try these things out! :elkgrin:

-Jake

weezerbot

06-07-2010, 10:15 PM

I've had a pair (KSO) for several weeks now and love them for the applications I use them for: a general daily shoe, massage therapy, and Tai Chi. They are very comfortable, I can get around the yard and such with them on and I've started recommending them to my students as an answer for those who want to massage barefoot but still need to meet school/OSHA regulations.

I would not consider using these for light hiking, but I'm about to try them out on our elliptical machine and see how they hold up. I've not experienced the foot stink that some have mentioned here. I would be interested in trying the KSO Trek for light hiking with the thicker sole, but I'm such a Keen-freak I'm not sure anything can ever replace those.

I did experience a large gash in the top of my right foot when I had to move a bicycle that was parked in the middle of my office (don't ask) and I ended up banging my foot into the kickstand. So, minimal protection.

I think these would also make great water/camp shoes as they are light, waterproof and easy to pack into a small space. I used to pack flip flops as camp shoes for backpacking because my Keens are just too heavy, so I think these will make a great alternative.

Beware, you will get a lot of people staring at your feet and many, many questions once they realize what they are. These are a definite icebreaker/conversation starter! Oh and also beware of your loved ones who do not buy into them making endless fun of you!

bucketosudz

06-07-2010, 10:34 PM

Can't be much worse than the chastisement that comes from wearing "Nothing's" or "Croc's". There is some real hate for those...:sombrero:

I really like wearing hard leather moccasins, but I intend to get a pair of the KSO's before summer's end.:victory:

YJake

06-27-2010, 04:38 AM

Black Dog

06-27-2010, 10:22 PM

I've got a friend who wears these Vivo Barefoot shoes. http://www.terraplana.com/vivobarefoot.php They are more of a "shoe" than the five fingers and have tons of different styles to fit any occasion but still stick to the principal of an ultra thin sole and being as close to barefoot as possible.

mountainsoul

06-28-2010, 07:02 PM

Very cool but I think I will stick to a good pair of Keens.

Van_Homan

07-01-2010, 03:35 AM

I tried to purchase a pair of KSO Multisports (mostly for kayaking) from my local REI and was told that the company was having problems with supply.
They said it was nationwide and they (REI) weren't even taking back orders. I was very disappointed because a couple of people in my paddling group have been using them for a few months and have nothing but good things to say about them.
I settled for the Camaro Coral Sea Water Shoes and they're working great. I still find myself wanting a pair of the KSO's, if for no other reason than I can't have them.

redveloce

07-02-2010, 12:14 AM

I tried on a pair at the local vendor and they actually felt great. I liked being able to feel and grip terrain with my feet instead of just standing on it. (Does that make sense?) I was able to curl my toes around rocks and tree branches and I could feel a difference in the muscles used in my feet/calves just from walking in them for a few minutes.

That makes perfect sense. My wife and I each got a pair two years ago, and I’ve used them off and on for trail running, and general wear around shoes. I was out running with my dog a few months back on some fairly muddy terrain through a wooded park, and decided on a whim to take off across a back trail at a sprint and give my dog a good run. I ended up switching trails several times and while making one sharp turn, maybe 150 degrees, I started to slide. While sliding I could feel my toes automatically start gripping the ground. I took several quick half steps, kept on my feet, and continued running. I would have been flat on my arse had I been wearing my regular running shoes. I’ve never experienced anything that felt quite like it.

I now have two pairs. My wife bought me a pair of KSO Treks for my birthday in April! :wings:

Spur

07-23-2010, 04:26 AM

I love my KSOs. My primary form of exercise these days is lifting weights and I prefer my Vibrams over anything else when I deadlift and squat. I've done a little bit of light running in them as well on treadmills and grass.

I've had a lot of foot and ankle injuries and I think they have helped in my rehab. My feet have never felt better. I used to wake up with crippling plantar fasciitis. It's still there, but much better.

My advice is to ease into them. You have to take it slow. Your muscles and tendons aren't used to being out of a big protective shoe. Go easy and you'll learn to love them.

For the trail, I've completely gotten rid of all my heavy shoes and boots. I finally took my old Zamberlans to Goodwill because I hadn't put them on in over 6 years. I guess I'm a Ray Jarrdine convert. http://www.rayjardine.com/ I never carry a pack that weighs more than 30 pounds, so my Keens are all I ever need. Maybe if I ever make it to one of the poles I'll get some heavy footwear again :)

DrMoab

07-23-2010, 09:25 PM

Well I just measured my feet to buy a pair and found out I have one foot that is almost 3/4 of an inch shorter than the other. :( Who knew???

Terrainist

07-24-2010, 03:46 PM

That's hideous, you should just stay in the house from now on.

If we all took measurements, we would find we are all not as symmetrical as we thought. Everyone is a little... off.

DrMoab

07-24-2010, 05:27 PM

LOL. The problem is they say if you have feet that are more than 1/16" off that you can't get a good fit. I sent them a message asking if I could get a set of two different sizes but no reply yet. :D

Terrainist

07-24-2010, 06:03 PM

If they are making them fit down to 1/16th, then those are some well fitted footwear. Guaranteed they will sell you two different sized sets. Don't know about separate sizes for a set.

Keep in mind, with something that fits that well, it's going to totally make your feet look goofy. 3/4 of an inch will stand out. I'm surprised you don't walk around in circles.

GroupSe7en

07-25-2010, 01:34 AM

targa88

07-29-2010, 12:36 AM

Tried on a pair today. Problem is the shape of my toes. Last two fingers are too long.
Interesting idea - just not made for every shape of foot....

jerdog53

09-06-2010, 03:41 PM

I have a pair and have had them for about 4 years now, used to wear them a lot more in the past than I do now, I think because the uniqueness of them has been lost now that I see them everywhere. I like them and will wear them around the house and on vacation.

hatidua

09-07-2010, 04:23 AM

They're not for me. My feet are one of the few items on me that I've not managed to mess up to date. I'm not going to attempt that feat by wearing a condom on each foot.

abeaudin1971

09-08-2010, 09:06 PM

Bought a pair - I walk a bunch - but after about 15 miles in them (not all at once) they're going to go to the Sally Ann.

I much prefer my Ghurkees (Neptune model) and I can get three pairs of Ghurkees for the same price as the FiveFingers.

-a

Spur

09-08-2010, 09:34 PM

scarysharkface

09-09-2010, 06:29 PM

I ordered a pair of five fingers earlier this week. NPR (or maybe it was Wisconsin Public Radio) ran a piece of barefoot running the Sunday before last, and it really got me thinking that these might help my chronically-aching back..

John

RepairmanSki

09-10-2010, 08:04 PM

I've got 2 pairs of KSOs and my kids run in both KSOs and Flows. Love them.

What do you do about the stink? Man, taking them off at the end of the day is best done far from the house. My kids need to wash their feet 3 times after a long sweaty run ;o)

Cheers,
Mark

I wash mine in the regular wash (usually with jeans) and air-dry at least every other week. Also, every time I put them on I spray tea tree oil on my feet. I wear them almost every day.

My back and legs haven't felt this good since my early twenties. For me, it's the Vibrams daily and my Keen's if the weather forces me.

Brian McVickers

09-11-2010, 05:42 AM

I bought a pair for $5 at an REI garage sale.
They had slight tears along a seam on each shoe but that just took 10min with a needle and thread to fix - such a deal!

mmtoy

09-13-2010, 05:12 PM

I just took mine on a 17.1 mile hike/run over Imogene pass between Ouray and Telluride, CO. The first time I managed to hike further than a few miles without blisters was in my VFFs.

:victory:

bkrobbie

09-13-2010, 05:57 PM

I read Born to Run, and the basic argument made all sorts of inherent sense to me so I got a pair of Five Fingers about four months ago.

I'm frankly too big to run a lot (190 pounds of lean, rippling muscle...) but I do it anyway to keep myself in check, mostly running home after work during the week. So, that's about seven miles on New York City's finest concrete four times a week, and I do all that running in big, fluffy, Asics Kayanos.

I take the Five Fingers out once a week and do a 3.5 mile loop of a local park and try to stay on dirt pathways.

I cannot tell you guys how weird it was to run in the FF the first time - the analogy of learning how to run all over again is 100% apt. I found myself running almost entirely on the balls of my feet, while my stride got shorter and quicker.

You can literally feel the difference it makes to move your head forward and backward, to move your back forward and backward, to rotate your hips forward and back, to move your shoulders... It really is remarkable.

In a clear indication that it uses entirely different muscles and posture, I was in a huge amount of pain after running in these shoes and for the first two months it took a full two days to recover.

In particular, the muscles in my calves were in knots and the tendons in my ankles were killing me.

Now, the pain was the good pain (and not "injury pain") - the pain you feel two days after slacking for months and then hitting the gym and doing some deadlifts. Still, I had to walk down stairs backward.

The best these shoes have felt is a couple of six mile runs I did, just a couple days apart, on the grassy / mossy roadside of Fundy National Park while camping.

I think the softer ground spared me a lot of impact, and my body really got into the rhythm of running.

I don't know that they are a panacea - I suspect I would likely do a tremendous amount of damage to my body if I was to run in the city or on any kind of paved / hard surface with these shoes.

But for people who have access to softer surfaces to run on (or who weigh a lot less than me) and enjoy running, I really have to suggest trying them.

Try them, however, without the expectation that these shoes will cure all your back/knee/joint/kidney/hairloss problems... rather, expect that they are a very useful tool to teach you about how your run and a means to explore how you can run differently.

TheStig

09-14-2010, 02:59 PM

I may give these a try sometime. They look pretty goofy to me, but if they work, who cares. The whole method makes sense I suppose. Humans have been running barefoot for hundreds of years.

AFSOC

09-14-2010, 03:34 PM

Humans have been running barefoot for hundreds of years.

Maybe even more.....

I don't know, when I hear the justification for these I keep thinking about Bio-Pace cranksets and other common sense revolutions that history has now forgotten.

hansonian

09-16-2010, 01:01 AM

There's a few guys in our running club that use these and I've yet to hear them complain. I keep looking at them and if I can find a pair on sale I might pick some up to give them a shot.

We all used to run around bare foot as kids and I don't think that ever did us any harm, except for stepping on the occasional cactus :Wow1:

Bhos

09-28-2010, 05:24 PM

Just over 5 months and they are doing great. I weigh 205 and do walking, jogging, sprints, crossfit, lifting, etc. and I am still liking them a lot. It's hard getting back into dress shoes. ;-) Also for running, I heartily recommend doing trails, grass and other soft natural surfaces. Then throw in some occasional pavement.

austintaco

09-29-2010, 08:16 PM

Much like the testimonials that are posted here. Vibrams and minimalist style running shoes are not for everyone. While one person weighing 200 + pounds can run in them regularly, another runner weighing 100 lbs has foot problems with them. It really boils down to body dynamics, stride, stride rate...and all of the other variables associated with an individuals running style and habits.
If you are thinking of trying them, be prepared that they may or may not work for you. You can change your style of running, but most people are stuck in their old habits. That's human nature.
I jumped into the Nike Frees when they first hit the scene and I love them for what they are: a training tool. I will do up to 15 miles in them, but not on back to back days. When I am training for Ironman or marathons, I use the Frees in my training, but I also rotate about 4-5 total pairs of shoes into the equation so my feet don't have the same repetitive forces applied to them.
Since Expo is not a dedicated running or triathlon site, the levels of running on here are varied so I thought I would give my opinion about the minimalist move.
I hope this helps.

jdayment

10-04-2010, 11:47 AM

Love them great with P90X and running.

Basement Yeti

02-20-2011, 05:16 AM

I love my Vibrams. They are all I really wear.

I own two pairs of KSO's, and one pair of classics. One pair of KSO's is for exercise. I will wear the classics pretty much all year and only break out my newer KSO's if it's cold or I am traveling somewhere where it's cold, they don't afford much insulation with the mesh but they look better when paired with socks, and quite frankly I don't like the newer models which have more substantial uppers, too thick of soles. I pair them with either a polyester or wool toe sock for colder or very cold weather. The shoes are good for cool, cold, warm, hot, and warm wet weather as they dry quickly, but poor for cold wet weather or just downright frigid weather. I don't add socks until about 40 or 45 degrees, and can go all the way down to 20 or so with the new wool socks.

I own a pair of uninsulated waterproof NEOS Trekker over shoes. They fold up very small and are incredibly versatile. I can pair them with my Vibrams and any sock combination or do without the Vibrams and pair them with a super thick pair of thinsulate socks, or the thinsulate socks on top of the polyester sport socks (thinsulate and new wool are too warm for even the harshest weather and my feet sweat a lot). They are my cold weather or cold wet weather alternative.

I also own a pair of Chuck Taylors for when Vibrams aren't appropriate.

But ultimately I prefer to be barefoot. :wings:

dwh

02-20-2011, 06:13 AM

But ultimately I prefer to be barefoot. :wings:

x2.

I once had a housekeeper who gave me a kit with a rasp and a file and a sanding board...

I was like WTF is this for? She said it was to remove all that "unsightly" callus from the bottoms of my feet...

I told her thanks but I liked being able to walk across broken glass or sharp stones without having to fear getting injured and I was not about to grind it off.

I do however wear boots whenever I venture out into the cold, cruel world. I like boots, but I always get out of them as soon as I can.

50 years old and fat, but never had foot problems. (My chronic pains come from neck and knee injuries.)

dwh

02-20-2011, 07:47 AM

Cause you don't wear these shoes...hehe!

Heh. That must be it!

Nah, actually the knees from playing football and spending years wearing a 40lb tool belt all day and humping up and down ladders about a million times.

The neck from the time I t-boned an IRS car with two IRS agents in it and spent 5 days in the hospital. Tore a right side scapulae muscle in half. Been 30 years and it still doesn't work right. Probably never will. :)

Basement Yeti

02-20-2011, 08:46 AM

x2.

I once had a housekeeper who gave me a kit with a rasp and a file and a sanding board...

I was like WTF is this for? She said it was to remove all that "unsightly" callus from the bottoms of my feet...

I told her thanks but I liked being able to walk across broken glass or sharp stones without having to fear getting injured and I was not about to grind it off.

I do however wear boots whenever I venture out into the cold, cruel world. I like boots, but I always get out of them as soon as I can.

50 years old and fat, but never had foot problems. (My chronic pains come from neck and knee injuries.)

I can't wear shoes with raised heels. I tried a typical pair of boots before I purchased my no drop NEOS over shoes and it pushes me forward and causes bad back cramping. I also really like to feel the ground underfoot, hence why I won't wear anything with a thick sole. The only compromise is the NEOS, but I rarely have to wear them, but at least they're flat.

I run in my Vibrams on the trails and paths around here, but when I get the run on grass I ditch them. I weighed the risk of me moving at high speeds and hitting a sharp rock or glass with a little less ground contact and decided to be safe.

I try and do everything similar to what our ancient ancestors might have done in my every day life. It's just one of my oddities.

I usually keep my classics stuffed in my pocket or I hang them off my belt. Sometimes I go into establishments and they don't yell at me because of my perceived nasty feet (Think my feet are nasty? How many times a day do you wash your nasty shoes? How come sandal wearers aren't considered nasty hippies?) and I get to walk around the establishment barefoot, other times I am forced to put on my shoes.

You know those bumps at the edges of certain cross walks or parking lots? They are a guilty pleasure of mine. I LOVE the way they feel under foot, like a foot massage.

bucketosudz

03-15-2011, 04:30 PM

Five fingers ,maybe it looks weird , but it's useful.
http://www.vibramfivefingers.it/

Poor, Poor attempt! SPAM Reported.

cdiamond

03-21-2011, 05:38 AM

I love mine, I've had them for a few months and wore them this winger (including in the snow).

The biggest benefit I've found is with my leg--I severely broke it snowboarding a few years ago, and they had to reconstruct my ankle.

Walking long distances has always hurt after a quarter mile, but wearing the Vibram's Five Fingers, I can walk a few miles before I notice any pain.

1speedlos

03-25-2011, 03:06 AM

I've been wearing KSOs and TrekSports for a couple of years now, and they've made a huge difference. As another massage therapist, I too prefer to work barefoot, but our culture isn't too friendly to it.
I do have one small issue with them after several hours, my pinkie toe gets crushed by the pocket ( broken a few times in Rugby.) I just got some Merrell Trail Gloves, and as soon as my broken clavicle heals, I'll report back on how they work compared to the VFFs.

Los

stankfoot

03-25-2011, 04:06 AM

i would love to try them but alas i am a mutant with web toes:Wow1:

Basement Yeti

03-25-2011, 06:04 AM

i would love to try them but alas i am a mutant with web toes:Wow1:

Lots of folks have modified their VFFs because of their webbed toes.
http://birthdayshoes.com/fivefingers-for-webbed-toes-how-about-vibram-four-fingers-mod

:elkgrin:

stankfoot

03-25-2011, 02:31 PM

thanks yeti... i may have to try them now...

Basement Yeti

03-25-2011, 08:15 PM

You'll love em. :sombrero:

WareAmI

04-17-2011, 08:58 PM

My finance and I just got ourselves some today. So far they are the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned.

Bhos

04-20-2011, 09:59 PM

I wore holes in my KSOs after 8 months. :( Wish they would have lasted longer, as I do love the feel.

redveloce

04-20-2011, 10:04 PM

I wore holes in my KSOs after 8 months. :( Wish they would have lasted longer, as I do love the feel.

What kind of use did they get? A pair of normal shoes usually only lasts me 1.5 months of daily wear before they're completely destroyed.

mountainpete

04-20-2011, 11:08 PM

Purchased a pair of FiveFingers last month. So far I have only ran on the treadmill with them, but I like them. More once the weather warms up!

nemoaz

04-21-2011, 12:40 AM

I only wear them while I'm driving my Miata.

Captain K-man

04-21-2011, 01:16 AM

I've had a pair of Five Finger Sprint for two years now and I love them. They are all I ware in the summer & they're still going strong. I also have two pairs of socks for them too. I can see a new pair for me this summer either KSO Trek or Bikila LS.

keezer37

04-21-2011, 01:17 AM

i would love to try them but alas i am a mutant with web toes:Wow1:

http://i876.photobucket.com/albums/ab323/Yoderandhisbuggy/Piggies-2.jpg

robert

05-09-2011, 01:39 AM

Been wearing a pair of the Komodos for the last two weeks and loving them. I head back to the rig next week so I'll be back to Crocs and I know I'll miss these things. I prefer to go barefooted too but since you can't in so many places I usually wear Chaco's or Teva's (only if I find them on sale since Teva's quality sucks so badly these days); the Vibrams are quickly becoming favorites though. They do look funny though and you get some priceless looks while wearing them.

stankfoot

05-09-2011, 03:14 AM

http://i876.photobucket.com/albums/ab323/Yoderandhisbuggy/Piggies-2.jpg

correct toes, wrong foot. my webbing is MUCH larger like a duck..

98XJLimited

05-14-2011, 01:05 PM

I wear my Sprints pretty much anywhere I wore tennis shoes or flip flops. I bought them for running but fell in love with them...silly looking- yes, but the comfort and functionality outweigh the looks for me

Honu

05-14-2011, 04:18 PM

On the pooh thing :)
I always say why we don't walk on our face :) and glad my face is far away from my feet :)

Tabis :) very common for Opihi hunting on slipper rocks :) used to get em with the felt soles kinda like fly fish waders :)

Funny as these days my feet are more soar aches etc...
Flounder early post made me think
I am used to walking barefoot on sand and trails moving to the mainland no more soft sand and trails and now wear shoes
%98 of my walking was with cheap rubber slippers

Hmmmm

FireGirl_Photo

06-04-2011, 02:46 PM

I help out at an outdoor retail store (photog) and the staff there says they sell a massive amount of these things. I tried a pair on and was impressed... my first thought was they would make awesome bow hunting / stalking boots. The uses are endless. Funky looking but certain people can rock them! Great for travel since they ball up to almost nothing.

ScottReb

06-14-2011, 01:31 AM

Have a couple of pairs. Great for anything. Have had my original ones for a couple years now.

photoman

07-01-2011, 04:37 AM

Just picked up my 2nd pair today - went with the Bikila LS (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-BikilaLS-Mens.htm) as the KSO's (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-KSO-Mens.htm) didn't have enough foot protection at times. The Bikila LS (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-BikilaLS-Mens.htm) are so much easier to get on and off as well. When my Adidas Samba's finally blow out I will pick up a pair of the Speed (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-Speed-Mens.htm) as well. Look like a great casual and driving shoe. Only reason I chose the Bikila LS (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-BikilaLS-Mens.htm)over the Speed (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-Speed-Mens.htm) was the likelihood of thorns sticking in laces and Speed would take longer to dry out if they got wet.

I even let my 12 year old son pickup a pair- he went with the black KSO (http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/Five-Fingers-KSO-Mens.htm)

Cackalak Han

07-05-2011, 09:51 PM

I had mine for over a year now. I tried to like them, but just can't get into them. Plus, my feet hurt every morning. I followed the proper training schedule (started with 1 mile walks and moved up from there). Still, after 3-4 months of running, had sore feet in the mornings. Didn't improve anything, really. Yes, I bought into the hype. It didn't pan out for me. Now, they're collecting dust in the closet and I'm happy with my 8oz racing flats for races and Wildcats for trail runs.

I will wear the VFF's if I ever decide to be a monkey for halloween (I've got all black VFF's--aka monkey feet).

Rezarf <><

07-12-2011, 05:33 PM

I have had mine 6 months or so and slowly got used to them. They are the single best thing when wanting to go barefoot over any non carpeted surface.

GP'd

07-12-2011, 08:34 PM

I love my KSO Sport Trek's for light hiking when around water and would consider them my dedicated fishing shoes. I wore them all July 4th weekend fly fishing the eastern sierras when I wasn't in waders. I have owned them for over a year now and don't have any regrets.

http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/public/M62wkuM5NeCycL9Zlnu7HM_2hzpP9LKZpnLMJREGzCOtE3A9Hg k6CVlGS37nKbeJ1T3wmhInasdtEq5yjlDgP9JuHZqMvpMa1JeK JSUzW_-4S01OGbtoEF4jmC8G243L0LRNUv24r4YUNxqUcEOGJ1PBAEoZI gg0=s180-c

Basement Yeti

07-13-2011, 05:52 PM

My new green/palm Vibrams are already showing holes in the sole from normal use and thinning on the toes. I guess the quality is going down the tubes, my black 3 year old KSOs have been exercised to heck in and have no signs of wear on the sole. :/

Patman

07-13-2011, 08:15 PM

Applejack

07-15-2011, 02:52 PM

FireGirl_Photo

08-12-2011, 12:50 PM

Just got a second pair of Bikilas - just in time for another trip.

Love these shoes... great conversation starers when traveling. And I swear my feet yearn for the feeling of toe separation when I'm not wearing them - I often find myself spreading my toes!

keezer37

08-13-2011, 12:02 AM

Thinking of going with the NB minimals.

I was happy to see these. Think I'll try a pair of the MT's. I've always held New Balance in high regards. I've worn their running shoes for ten years.

GCL4x4

08-20-2011, 06:06 PM

http://i1138.photobucket.com/albums/n525/GCL4x4/V5F.jpg

Here's mine. I got them because my Doc recommended them to help strengthen my arches and reduce further damage to my plantar fascia.

I started considering them when I hurt my plantar fascia and it took 3 weeks to heal. They're a bit uncomfortable at first until your brain adjusts to the feeling you have between your toes and the discomfort from landing on your forefoot when walking with a brisk pace. Walking, I normally land on edge of my feet, developed that from having sore arches due to standing on flat shoes 12 hours a day at the lab. observed a few escrima and grapplers walking around Los Angeles with wrestling ring shoes on the street. picked up the technique. Wonderful how Jesus fixes things in your life especially when you NEVER see people wearing Ninja shoes in the inner city during the late 90's

Watch out for counterfeits. Since they're manufactured in China there are fake ones out there.

2-3 days of UV from the Sun and it will cure any odor you might have developed through usage.

http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/counterfeits/index.html

Hope this helps someone.

GCL4x4

08-20-2011, 06:22 PM

I tried a set of trek sports and couldn't get the fit right. Apparently my feet are pointy enough that my pinky and "ring" toes could not reach the toe pockets, which would just flap around. I tried to contact FF but never got an answer. Sucks sice I really love the idea. And my feet are shaped almost the same as the guy in thier fit video

Anyone have the same issue and find a solution? Thinking of going with the NB minimals.

@Patman, I had a problem with fitment as well. My left foot measured at a 40 and right with a 39. My pinky would fill under half the length on either.

I found that your feet will expand if you allow it. They also expand to a larger capacity nearing the end of the day because of usage. I can no longer fit my 8's timberlands. they're too narrow for me now. After that I searched for 40's thinking i would just wear a sock on the right foot. Never needed it. Don't even notice the flop. The brain will adjust to it if you force it by ignoring (what you think is) the problem. (ex) I have floaters in both eyes. When I'm dead tired they show, your brain negates them when you're not tired.(doc told me that).

When youre trying them on, your brain is looking for problems and perfect fitment so it's very critical at that time. Go at night when youre feet has expanded fully. It's also like pulling on a sock so you can yank them into place by sliding your thumb in and tugging the material closer.

if the sales guy tries to sell you a womens sized one tell him to go play in traffic. mens feet are wider as the length increases and that isnt equivalent to the ladies when their length increases.

Even the guys at REI know that.

Hope this helps.

Leviathan

09-03-2011, 04:18 PM

My $.02 ... I love these "shoes"

I went barefoot for a year in college (in Indiana). When I think back now I realize how stupid and gross that was. I am lucky I didn't pick up a hookworm somewhere. Now I have the VFF KSO's and it is the best of both worlds; I feel barefoot without my feet being black and nasty at the end of the day.

That said, use these as intended. They are not for carrying heavy backpacks, or operating heavy machinery, or motorcycling. For running around though, they are the best.

Sempertoy

09-14-2011, 04:59 PM

I just thought that I would throw my 2 cents in there. For as long as I can remember (not that long I guess, I'm 24) My feet and knees would always ache. After adding highschool contact sports to that (football and rugby) my lower back joined in on the pain. Right before I joined the Marine Corps, I was diagnosed with flat feet and that is what the pain was attributed to. So after spending 7 months in boots while in Afghanistan I saw an add for these and the customer reviews on REI said they helped people with flat feet. I ordered a pair to camp leatherneck AF and now 6 months later I still wear them everyday. They are great for running, weight lifting, swimming and just about any other physical activity you can think about. They do take some getting used to and I would recommend NOT running in them the first time you wear them. Trust me on this. So over all I would recommend these shoes to EVERYONE, especially those who have flat feet or knee and back pain.

Bad Karma

09-14-2011, 09:58 PM

I have 2 pairs. my wife has 2 pairs too, we love them.

nkybrad

09-15-2011, 04:47 PM

I have 2 pairs, one pair to work out in and the other for just wearing out and around town. I absolutely love them and people always ask about them. I have convinced so many people to buy a pair and have heard nothing buy great comments from those who did. I would recommend them to anyone. I am a big guy (6'4" 270lbs) and they are honestly one of the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever owned. They do take some getting used to, but after a month of wearing them and they "break in" you will be nothing but happy with them.

NXN

09-18-2011, 02:08 PM

I own a pair and love them. But I think, considering the age of this thread that it should be pointed out that Vibram has listened to people in so far as issues with the shoe's appropriateness for various activities and have addressed those issues through an ever expanding model line-up. I dare say that some of the problems that were suggested early on in this thread have been minimized or erased through the well thought out new or updated VFF designs. The addition of the lacing system is one of the best additions and now they offer models specifically geared towards hiking and expedition travel.