Some people have called Vibram Five Fingers Shoes the most versatile footwear they own,
just imagine.
Not only do they look like gloves, they are just as comfortable. and apparently cushion each toe separately.
Check out our selection on the right.
To say they look like five fingers is accurate but some might even say they look bizarre.
In any case they sure are different.
According to Vibram – the manufacturer:
They come with adjustable hook-and-loop closures cross over the instep and surround the heel for a personalized, secure fit. A thin abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide fabric follows the contour of the foot for comfort. Five Fingers shoes are flexible, non-marking, and have a TC1 performance rubber sole that is razor siped to enhance grip over a variety of terrain.
I don’t know about you, but I am totally in favor of anything designed to approximate wearing nothing at all and Vibram Five Fingers Shoes are designed to do exactly that – make you feel as though you’re wearing nothing on your feet.
Update – August 31, 2009
There is a bit of a debate raging over whether or not the “barefoot” experience offers enough support for running as opposed to the technologically advanced running shoes.
Running shoes, that are the mainstay of the giant manufactures like Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and others, have evolved due to the vast research done on their products in how to protect runners from shock. This trend continues as manufacturers employ new materials which make running shoes lighter, stronger and more cushioned.
Barefoot shoes are a whole different story and are much more minimalist. So do you think the barefoot shoes like the Vibram Five Fingers are a fad, or are they here to stay?
Check out this article in The New York Times – “Wiggling Their Toes at the Shoe Giants”
Vibram also states there are certain things to remember when transitioning to the barefoot style of running.
- Run no more than 10% of your typical running distance for the first 2–3 weeks
- After 2–3 weeks, gradually increase mileage by 10%–20% every couple of weeks
- If you ever start to feel pain during a run, stop! You can always try again in a couple of days
- Never run 2 days in a row for the first month
- Stretch before and after each run, focusing on calves and feet, because Vibram FiveFingers running will stimulate these muscles
- If, after several weeks of training, you are consistently very sore, you need to rest and back-off on your mileage
So if you want to take your running to the next level, or get back to your ancient roots – depending on how you view this whole barefoot running concept,
why not try out a pair of Vibram Five Fingers Shoes.
Enjoy
James
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
You note:
“Not only do they look like gloves, they are just as comfortable and apparently cushion each toe separately.”
This isn’t really true – there is no cushioning at all in any of the current models of vibram fivefingers.
@Justin
You are right. The whole idea is protecting the soles of your feet and it’s the word I should have used. I really don’t know how well these shoes do that either but they do look like they will approximate the “barefoot feeling” as much as possible with some protection.
Thanks for the heads-up!
James