Vibram FiveFingers Shoes

I have a couple of friends that have these shoes and I'm toying with the idea of getting a pair myself. They love them, I was thinking about getting the Sprint style. I'm not a runner (though one friend that has them is), but think they would be good for everyday non-work wear, and I use an elliptical, which I currently use barefooted. I dislike sneakers, so I think these would be a good alternative.

Anyone else on here have them?

http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/products_Sprint_f.cfm

I went to the beach on Friday and I saw a lot of runners wearing them.

I'm not sure how I feel about my toes being separated, it seems like it would feel weird.

I'm going to REI this week to take a look at them.

REI carries them @ about $85.

I ordered online from the Vibram site and paid $66 w/ free shipping.

Love them.

I chose the Sprint style because I have very high arches. Elastic that covers the metatarsal area is usually too tight and causes pressure sores.

The toe separation actually does help with grip and balance in surf. They don't slip on wet boards or rocks anymore than bare feet, yet they protect the foot from abrasion. Although the lack of heel padding makes them unfit for mall-walking, they do the job they are designed for perfectly.

I wouldn't recommend them for extended wear on any hard surface, like asphalt.


The velcro strap adjustments allow for a very personalized fit.


Also, they look very cool and eyebrows raise when they are noticed.

:thumbsup:

Thanks for what you posted, I think I'll go with the Sprint as well.

I've been looking at these for my brother who has problems with his feet but always wears flip-flops and sandals. It seemed from their website they were meant for activities rather than all day wear. Your info seems to point to the same conclusion.

They are excellent for beach-walking. I like the traction climbing into a kayak.

I'm sure free-runners would like the tactility.

Extended wear will certainly lead to arch problems y fungal infection.

Two years from now you'll wonder what the hell you were thinking.

I never bought the ugly Crocs, but I do own a couple of pairs of their sandals (super comfy on the feet).