Running becomes fun again.
Preface: If you would like to read more about how I became interested in minimalist and barefoot running, please visit the past posts listed below. Also, as of August 2011, I am comfortably running 8 miles per week in the shoes.
Research Paper (My Research on Minimalist Running)
Weak Butt (The Ailment that Stopped My Running)
Minimalist Thoughts (Thinking About Vibram FiveFingers)
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The Review: Around the same time I began to question my running methods and choice of footwear I received an email from Vibram FiveFingers (VFF). The title of the email made me almost think it was a joke: “Subject: Vibram for your Weak Butt.” That is what I called my hip misalignment, due to weak hip and gluteal muscles. I was offered a pair of my choice of Vibram FiveFingers to try and review. This is my review.
Initially I wanted to try the Bikila, one of the newest additions to the Vibram FiveFingers product line. But my feet were too small to fit into the available Bikila sizes. So I opted to try a veteran shoe from the Vibram FiveFingers line – the Sprint. I selected them in a blue and gray color scheme, which I decided would match most of my racing outfits. The Sprint retails for about $80.
I tried the Vibram FiveFingers on for the first time. This was different.
Checking out the bottom of the shoes.
I had read reviews from other runners online and even heeded the advise of the representative I worked with — don’t run too much in them too early. Ease your way into the shoes, they said…
• The first time I walked about 1/2 mile
• The second time I ran just over 1/2 mile
• The third time I walked about 3 miles
Comfort and Ease of Wear: I have not had any issues or pains wearing these shoes, even when I have increased my mileage, walking 3 to 4 miles in the shoes. The only time I have had any discomfort in the shoes was when I put them on right after work one day. My feet were already sweaty and swollen from my dress shoes and it was very humid out. I walked about 2 miles and my feet began to get a few “hot spots.” I will attribute this to the state of my feet and the weather that day, rather than the shoes.
Easy Adjustment: I attribute my lack of adjustment (ie. no pains or problems) in the shoes to the fact that I walk barefoot in our home 24/7.
Running Becomes Fun Again: When I have run for spurts I have had a fun time in the shoes. You forget you are running. At times running can seem like a chore. Running in the VFF is like being a kid again. You run for fun. Not for fitness or health. Fun.
VFF Running Goals: Ideally I would like to see myself running once a week in VFF, ideally a shorter run. I am continuing to ease into these shoes and I’ll definitely keep everyone posted on how they work as I continue to walk and run in them.
Here’s a few points I have come to so far about VFF…
Great quality: That is what has stood out foremost to me about the VFF product. The price of the shoes can be daunting. Most pairs average around $100. I was pleased to find strong stitching in the shoes, tight seams and solid bonding of the rubber sole to the fabric. In all a very high-quality made product. Some Vibram FiveFingers veterans have claimed to have run thousands of miles in a single pair. I truly hope mine can outshine the best.
Toe Adjustment: The first few times they are a bit challenging to put on. Basically your toes want to do one thing and don’t realize where the shoes is. I had trouble with my second toe trying to get into the third toe’s “pocket.” I can assure you that if you try VFF your toes will get used to them eventually.
More Muscles Being Used: The shoes do fit very flat to the ground. There is not much of a heel. Just a bit of fabric in the heel of the shoe. You will feel your muscles and tops of your feet working in new ways when wearing these. Is that good or bad? From my perspective I don’t think it can be bad. I don’t see any “harm” in this type of footwear, when used in moderation.
VFF in the Workplace: In all I think these shoes would be a great addition (fun or practical) to your running gear. If my workplace was more casual I would wear my VFF to work.
Concluding Thoughts: Overall, I would not yet advocate these as a 24/7 running shoe just because of the potential to get sore from overuse of lesser-used muscles and tendons. I have heard too many stories of folks who used the shoes too much and then found themselves laid up. But that doesn’t mean it’s not possible for these to become an exclusive running shoe (for myself or for others). Only time will tell.
Read more about my experiences running in Vibram FiveFingers here.
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Do you have questions on Vibram FiveFingers?
Leave a comment and I’ll answer your question in a follow up post.
Im glad that they are working for you
I have yet to try them but do see a pair in my future–I'll do the same "ease in" period you are doing.
Happy Running Holly
I run in Sprints! I love them!
So I’m thinking about getting this, would they be a good pair to get for treadmill running. I like to run at least a couple miles every day or two, I’m wondering if they are more for shorter runs. I don’t want to get them and end up wearing them down too quick!
It’s hard to say Theresa. I know some folks who run exclusively in them, including long distances. Mine are 1 year old and have a decent amount of wear from running in them 1x per week. Some users claim the shoes have lasted 1,000+ miles per pair.
MGA wears them and loves them. Love your self photo – cracking me up, girl! Can I also say that I laughed when you were describing your toes doing their own thing rather than going into the appropriate toe slot – I laughed because I wear toe socks and although it's been 2 years, my toes STILL go where ever the heck they want – half of my sock putting on time is getting them out of their neighbor's slot and into their own. Great review – sounds like this might really be working for you. Awesome – can't wait to hear more!
I'm glad you are liking your vibrams. I tried running in some saucony kinvaras which are minimalist style and had a horrible experience. Terrible arch pain, etc. I wish minimalist was for me but definitely not at this point.
B has a pair of VFF. He was running in them for a while, but isn't anymore. He's 6'3 and 220 and claims they "aren't for big guy running". He wears them around the house and when he's doing pushups/abs and whatever.
My running buddy has a pair! He absolutely swears by them–says they have helped his knees tremendously. Loved the review!
my hubs LOVES his five fingers. LOVES.
his hip/leg/knee pain is down to nothing and his form has totally improved!
love your review!
hey girl! thanks for the take on the VFFs! i am yet to try them, but am kind of fascinated by them!
i will order sprint later.
I have had a bunion removed and 2 toes straightened. I can only sleep at nite with teo separators on that foot. also I get pain on the opposite side of tht foot-when I run around barefoot. Do you think these would be a good didea to use-as I’m reintroducing my feet to walking long distances again???
Hi Mary. My experience is that I have to move my toes a bit to get them into the shoes. Additionally my toes do bend while I am running or walking in the shoes. Not sure if that will help you out or not.
If you can find the shoes at a local running or walking shop, perhaps you can try a pair on in person and see how they feel in person. Best of luck!
Hi all. I am getting some sprints this winter and I was wondering if you have any tips for these shoes. I dont really run, but I weight lift, and I’m concerned because of the stories I hear about people hurting their feet.
Hi Em – My best advice would be to start with smaller distances and work your way up. Also consider walking in the shoes and building distance that way before running, if you chose to try running in them.
Personally I have not worn these in the weight room because they do not provide any sort of thick cover over the top of the foot, which could pose a danger if you drop a weight. I’d rather drop a weight on my old Asics or New Balance that my nearly bare foot!