Tim Ferriss on Vibram Shoes from Kevin Rose on Vimeo.
“The human foot is a work of art and a masterpiece of engineering.”
—Leonardo Da Vinci
“OK, dude, what’s up with the goofy shoes?”
It was the second day of Pavel’s RKC kettlebell course, and I’d seen more than a few people wearing what appeared to be gecko feet. The sheer goofiness compelled me to ask Rudy Tapalla, a CrossFit instructor from Chicago, why on earth he would put these ridiculous gloves on his toes. He seemed to have good mojo — he was shorter than me but had a vertical jump to match Michael Jordan — so I figured he might have good reasons.
He did, though I didn’t realize it at the time.
I remained a skeptic but tested them a month later. Now, I have three pairs and find it hard to wear other shoes. Vibram Five Fingers shoes (“VFFs” to the die-hard fans) are worth a closer look.
After two weeks of wearing them, the lower-back pain I’d had for more than 10 years disappeared and hasn’t returned since I started experimentation about 8 weeks ago.
Sound ridiculously implausible?
It doesn’t once we look at how feet and posture adapt…
Nasty Pictures and Maladapted Feet
Each human foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles and tendons. It’s a surprisingly malleable structure.
From the cached version of the most excellent Nature’s Magic Bullet, referred to me by Joseph Mascaro:
Most people, including doctors, have never seen a natural foot, unaltered by footwear. The following images of habitually bare feet are taken from a study performed almost 100 years ago, published 1905 in the American Journal of Orthopedic Surgery, which examined the feet of native barefoot populations in the Philippines and Central Africa. A line can be drawn that runs through the heel, ball, and big toe of a habitually bare foot. The little toes spread naturally and fan out to provide a wide, stable base for walking or standing.
How do our shod feet compare? The following more common image, also taken from the 1905 study, demonstrates feet that are shaped like the owner’s shoes. No such line can be drawn, and the little toes crowd to a point—a comparatively unstable, narrow base for walking or standing.
The Simple Biomechanics of Bad Posture
Postural compensation is unavoidable while wearing shoes that elevate the heels. It’s necessary to maintain balance.
Chronic use of heels can result — and usually does — in some degree of kyphosis-lordosis and related pains in the lower back and mid-upper back.
Reversing Degeneration – Embracing the Barefoot Alternative
Vibram Five Finger models: KSO (blue), Classic (brown), Sprint (gray)
Laboratory studies show that the plantar arch alone returns at least 17 percent of the energy of impact. Running shoes have largely replaced our arches, but they are neither as effective nor as durable. Barefoot runners can clearly do as well as shoed runners, but it takes time to develop the strength in the foot to use our natural arch fully.
(Source: The Barefoot Route)
Ethiopian Abebe Bikila ran a world-record 2:15:17 marathon at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
Barefoot.
The unadorned human foot is built for running. In fact, some researchers have proposed that bipedalism is an evolved trait related to “persistence hunting”, which is common among predators like wolves. Don’t think a human can run an antelope to death? Think again.
So how do we reclaim our rightful arch strength, our stability, and undo the damage of years of unnatural posture? Not to mention rediscover the joy of feeling the terrain under our feet?
Going barefoot is one option, and one that I enjoy, but there are limits. In the concrete jungle, glass and other dangers make going Bushman a roll of the dice at best. Tetanus or a trip to the ER? I’ll pass.
The Vibram Five Fingers shoes, to differing degrees, allow you to both walk without a heel (as would wrestling shoes, Vivo Barefoot shoes, or thin flip-flops) and condition toe-spread, especially the big toe, for lateral stability.
I first tested the KSO (“keep stuff out”) model, which fits most like an aqua sock and has more padding than other models I tested.
I then tested the Classic model, the least complicated of all, and the Sprint model, which is almost a hybrid of the KSO and Classic.
I wear a size 9.5 men’s shoe in the US and tested EU 42 for the KSO and Classic, and an EU 43 for the Sprint.
The results, in brief:
My favorite model is, by far, the Classic. It’s easiest to get on, even with my worthless nub of a little toe, and it most closely mimics the true barefoot feel. The only downside is that, to get a snug fit and not have the heel come off the foot, you must slide the top slip-tie until it is quite tight. This will feel unusual for the first 24 hours or so. I have used the Classic to go trail running in SF and it is euphoric.
I love the KSO, but it is more of a process to get on, and far more conspicuous. At first, it’s fun to get a lot of attention with the shoes (gentlemen, you will not believe the “peacocking” effect of these puppies), but giving each person you meet a 5-minute explanation gets old fast. The Classic blends in more than the KSO or any model with straps. Black will help all models fade into the ground, but I prefer colors.
The Sprint model was so uncomfortable at first that I shelved them, never intending to test them again. It was the only model, and not due to size differences, that oddly pulled my little toe out, causing minor pain but great discomfort after even 10 minutes. I sent an e-mail to their US CEO, who responded back with a suggestion to “seat the heel”, particularly with the Sprint model. This means:
Slide your foot back to nestle your heel into the heel pocket. It’s important to get your heel deeply seated. Secure the instep strap BEFORE latching the heel straps. This will ensure the foot is positioned properly.
I have since been able to wear the Sprint model for 1-2 days at a time, no more than 1 hour of walking at a stretch, but the velcro strap can still bite into the skin without the KSO-like mesh below it. I find it the least comfortable of the three models.
But what about flat feet?
I had clinically-diagnosed arch problems as a child — flat feet supreme — and was prescribed not only custom orthopedic insoles but also exercises for the feet themselves, rolling up towels with the toes, etc.. For those who like random anecdotes, my mom e-mailed me this addition after I published this post:
You didn’t mention that you leapt at the orthopedist examining your feet, like Spidey to a wall.
Sounds like me. I was a little hellion. But we digress…
Needless to say, the exercises fell by the wayside, and I took to increasing levels of support through the shoes themselves. VFFs have been nothing short of spectacular for me, despite my history of flat feet.
Barefoot runners are often asked “but what do you use for arch support?”, to which they respond: “your arches”. I’ve found that my arches, and foot as a whole, feels better with less support rather than more.
Cautions and Cons
-Do not overdo it at first. Chances are that the ligaments and musculature of your feet is underdeveloped. Use them for no more than 1/2 – 1 mile in the first 24 hours, then take a day off. I suggest alternating VFFs with “normal” shoes or flat-soled shoes like Chuck Taylors for the first week. I now use VFFs for no more than three days in a row, as I’ve had some bruising on the heel with more, and such bruising is slow to heal and massively inconvenient. Asphalt is somewhat forgiving, concrete much less so (The Embarcadero in SF, for example), and marble or stone is brutal (casino floors in Las Vegas, etc.).
-Beware the sizing. There are complaints online of the VFF website sizing suggestions being inaccurate for some people. Get sized at a retail location that carries VFFs if possible. If you can’t, check the VFF return policy on their site or order through Amazon to ensure swaps are simple.
-Be prepared to wash them. VFFs are machine washable and should be air dried. There are five-toed socks like the Injinji brand, but I have found all of them to be incredibly painful between the toes, no matter which model of shoe is worn. I now only wear VFFs barefoot. One nice side-effect of the toe separation? No more athlete’s foot or foot skin issues.
In Closing
To embrace barefoot living or the barefoot alternative, you will have to change how you walk and run, avoiding the heel strike we’ve all used since putting thick Nike padding under our soles. No need to obsess, though, as your gait will adapt naturally — reverting to a natural state, as it were — as you avoid the discomfort of doing otherwise.
The fastest runners have a style quite similar to that of a person running without shoes. They absorb shock by landing lightly on their forefeet rather than on their heels, and their landing leg is beneath the torso, with the leg slightly bent to absorb impact.
…
According to exercise physiologist and Olympic marathoner Pete Pfitzinger, the key to starting out is to go slowly. He advises walking barefoot for a few weeks to toughen up the skin on the bottom of the foot as well as the muscles in the ankles and feet. Once you are ready to run, start with a mere five minutes, increasing slowly and running barefoot every couple of days. From there, build to up to 20 minutes over a month. After a few weeks of this, the feet and ankles will be stronger, thus reducing the risk of injury. Possible places to train include sandy beaches and golf courses.
The barefoot running technique has been described as falling forward. It has also been described as gently kissing the ground with the balls of your feet.
(Source: The Barefoot Route)
For those interested in developing the most efficient and low-impact running gait, I suggest starting with the Chi Running DVD (skip the book, which gets into too much pseudo-Asian chi mumbo jumbo) and moving to the Pose Method of Running book if interested in more specific details.
Experiment with rediscovering your feet and proper biomechanics.
If a few weeks can eradicate 10+ years of lower-back pain for me, it might just do something for you.
At the very least, you get to wear some goofy shoes that encourage you to wiggle your toes.
###
If you enjoyed this post, check out my latest book, The 4-Hour Body, #1 New York Times and #1 Amazon bestseller. You will learn: How to lose 20 pounds in 30 days (without exercise), how I gained 34 pounds of muscle in 28 days, how to go from running 5K to 50K in 12 weeks, and more.
You can also get the Expanded and Updated 4-Hour Workweek, which includes more than 50 new case studies of luxury lifestyle design, business building, reducing hours 80%+, and world travel.
Other things you might not have seen:
Tim Ferriss in NY Times Styles: Too Much Information? Ignore It.
Tim Ferriss on Twitter – what I am doing right now?
Tim Ferriss Investments – what have I invested in recently?
Comment Rules: Remember what Fonzie was like? Cool. That's how we're gonna be — cool. Critical is fine, but if you're rude, we'll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation! (Thanks to Brian Oberkirch for the inspiration.)
First comment- Long time reader. Tim on page 379 of the of the book you suggest that to run more "biomechanically efficient", one should land on the heel of the foot. (Pose method) The makers of Vibram 4 Fingers seem to suggest landing on the front of the foot, however, and some users claim it's painful to land on the heel. One Harvard study also points to landing on the front of the foot as generating the least impact and consuming the least energy. I've pasted the link. Definitely worth a read. http://barefootrunning.fas.harvard.edu/index.html Do you believe that these Vibram 4 Fingers, while good for weight lifting or lighter paced walking or jogging, are perhaps not compatible with training such as that described in "Ultra- Endurance I"? (400 meter repeats with a goal of running a marathon, while using the pose method) If not what shoes/sneakers would you recommend for training at that intensity level while staying true to the Pose method? (landing on your heels) I'm guessing one would have to try both landing methods and decide which is best for ones goals, since Dr. Romonav's method and the Vibram/ Harvard method contradict. Any thoughts on that? Would you support one over the other under specific circumstances? I've noticed I'm not the only one who"s pondered this. Any thoughts on the subject by anyone are welcome. Thanks Tim
im now suffering from plantar fasciitis for almost a month already, is VFF shoes recommended for those people like having this problem? thanks and hope to hear from you soon…
Hi… I probably did not acclimate properly, and this ultimately caused me to need surgery. My right foot has incredible pain on the outside ridge of the foot opposite the arch. Even now I have switched back to regular running shoes and I am suffering incredibly after just a 5k today. I have to give up running this season and switch to biking, with surgery scheduled in late october, early NOvember. Be very careful with these. You MUST acclimate slowly….very slowly.
Wow! I have only seen this type of shoes from a friend last month. I didn't know this was an old style. Anyway, does vibram five finger comes along for women and kids style?
Hi there! I just stumbled across this site while looking for ways to build up to using these to run long distance. I recently started running again in January (I'm in Wisconsin, so I haven't been able to run outside until recently!), and about two weeks ago I took the plunge and picked up a pair of these shoes. I LOVE THEM. These shoes are amazing, I mean they seem so funky, but the whole concept behind them is incredible. I've walked miles in them already, but I've only gone on three runs so far. Yesterday was my farthest, I ran about 1 mile and walked another 2 in them. Yesterday it was cold… about 35 degrees out. When it gets really cold it is harder for me to run because I get stiff. Today my feet are sore, but not the "bad" terrible aching sore that I kind of expected. I overdid it a little yesterday, I cranked my knee a little weird so I've got a dull pain in the knee today, but my feet feel GOOD sore! I know it's just muscles being worked that have been crammed in all manner of ridiculous "support" shoes. It is really weird to describe, but I'm sitting at my desk right now and I can't help but think that the dull ache feels amazing. How totally liberating, I love it. I'm so excited to get to the point where I can run races in them. I've lost about 20 lbs so far on my weight loss journey, and I've got about 40 more to go. I know I'll only get stronger as I get lighter. I simply cannot wait. Thanks for the article, it was a great one to read!
I have been an avid wearer of Vibram FiveFingers ever sense they first popped their funky little toes onto the footwear scene. I have had foot and knee problems for a long while, however, thats all gone now. It's truly amazing how much better I feel. http://www.toeshoe.co.cc Great Post! Barefoot For Life, ~John
Just love the VFFs and bought a pair for my 9-year old last week. After 1.5 year barefoot running I'd like to stress two things: 1) Learn the proper technique, there are plenty of great videos out there 2) Don't start SLOW, but start with short distances Have fun and spread your toes 🙂
That was quite possibly the longest, most complete summery I have seen so far about VFFs. I just bought my first pair (bikila silver/verde) TODAY and can not wait to get them next week! I too have back problems and also knee pain when I run. Really hoping the VFFs fix, or at least reduce this so I can enjoy running again.
I totally agree with Stefan: "1) Learn the proper technique, there are plenty of great videos out there" Exactly, I saw many running around with Vibrams but with the wrong technique. Be aware that you have to learn the new way of walking! "2) Don’t start SLOW, but start with short distances" A Mistake I made when starting to walk with the Fivefingers. You can go the speed you could go in normal shoes, but you can't go as far as with 'normal' shoes. I runned a lot slower, although that wasn't necessary 😉 Keep that in mind and you'll have a lot of fun with your Vibram Fivefingers 😉
Tim I just discovered this 32 page PDF by Terra Plana who make barefoot running shoes. I have a pair as an alternative to Vibrams. It looks in depth at baerfoot running, I think you'd find it very interesting and it's quite a good guide to send to others. The pictures are cool too! http://trainingclinic.vivobarefoot.com/step-by-step All the best, Freddie
Hey Great Information on these shoes! I have been having great success with back pains from Lordosis in my lower lumbar. The first time ever going longboarding and hiking flat pavement grounds after in these shoes and I have no lower back pains!!! Amazing what your body is capable of what you just let it do what it was naturally engineered to do! Check out My Video Review and other Articles at : http://www.thebodyforlife.com/vibram-fivefingers-komodo-sport-video-review/ I will be discussing many of the things you talk about through this website, as well as testing them on myself, to prove what works and what doesn't! Thanks for all your hard work and advice Tim!
Any opinion on the FiveFingers “Bikila” model that was recently released?
This is a great post. Although I am used to running, I've just ordered a pair of KSO Treks fro mthe VFF range. Can't wait to try them. I'm planning to convert totally to VFF or barefoot over the next couple of months. Thanks for the review
I have 3 pair as well and my fav is komono sport. A little struggle to get on because they are softer and more pliable. They too, have a strap around heel and one over foot. I like the heel strap because I have narrow feet and ankles. I've done some running in them and notice a difference in my toughness. Because I wear them outside of work as much as I can, I notice other shoes getting tighter because my feet are getting wider. I love these shoes and highly recommend them. (I own over 70 pair of shoes and these are the first I grab – weather permitting)
Hi! I just bought a pair yesterday and lounged around the house in them and then did some squats and leg lifts and what not. I have the Bikilia (er…whatever) and they are a 42 mens. I wear an 11 womens for a running shoe. I got a little tiny blister on the side of my foot at the start of the heal. If I match it up to the spot on the shoe it is right where the tread changes from arch tread to heel tread. Do you think that will go away, or do I need a different size, etc? I appreciate your response 🙂 Thanks for the great post! Best one I have read! Feet are so great and so under appreciated!! Sophia
so you said shoes that are good for the barefoot experience of wrestling shoes, vivo barefoot shoes, thin flip flops and you also mentioned Nike Frees – The Nike Free is a STUPID fad shoe ( just like shape ups) – it is not even a minimalist shoe yet you included it – you either work for nike or really made a bad mistake ! Nike free's silly flexing sole provides NO PURPOSE for human running or walking – please edit that out – or give a real damn good reason why you would put that – the nike free has a huge heel – maybe not compared to OTHER NIKE SHOES – but comparing it to wrestling shoes, vibrams is just down right STUPID –
Tim, I have heal spurs plus arthritis in the bones of my feet. Will the vibram shoes benefit me for this or not? I don't want to spend the money on them if they won't help me. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks. Marcia
I just got my Five Fingers Classic’s and they are great. After years of trying various shoes, boots, orthotics, socks, etc., and never being quite happy with the way my feet feel, I tried the Vibram Classic. What a difference!
Tim. To be honest i have to say when i first saw these shoes i thought they looked pretty funny looking. I decided to pick up a couple pairs when i went to the store. I gave a pair to an employee of mine to wear on a roofing job. He said they were fantastic the had a great grip on the roof. now all my employee's wear Vibram Five finger shoes. Great article!
okay – but what about elementary aged children wearing them AT school – where there is a lot of rough and tumble play and feet getting stepped on. the bottoms seem to have a pretty good bottom layer to protect from glass, sticks, "goathead" weeds, etc – but i worry about the top of the foot. i worry about there not being enough of a protective layer across the top of the foot and the toes. i am an elem, PE teacher and with all i see, i really worry that elem school is NOT the place for children to wear these type of shoes. what do you think? thanks…
For those with bunions… these is something you can wear in your running shoes – even VFF! Bunion Bootie (www.bunionbootie.com) is super thin and wraps around the big toe to pull it back to it's proper alignment and keep it there during your run – it's awesome and fits like a glove! 🙂 Pardon the pun!
Just got a piar of black KSOs. Took them for a quick test run down the block and I think these are my new favorite shoes ever! I was told at the store to just run however feels right and my gate will change normally. Is that correct, or do I need to make an effort to stike with my forefoot?
I bought a pair of KSOs yesterday and gave them a tryout. I'm in Hong Kong and it's all steep concrete or tarmac gradients. Barefoot running requires one to lean forward. Not downward on a slope. What is the technique of going down a steep incline 'barefoot' fashion? Would appreciate any answers as I start on a more natural route to running. Thanks.
I was sized in store and bought offline but when I walk the heels hurt like they may be to tight I have tried to loosing them but its not working is there any way to fix this
Hi, I just got a pair of VFF's and i love them! I have had them for 4 days now, and I can already see how they change the walk of your body, and could fix your back. The second day I wore them I saw a differnce in how I walked. It felt soooo normal and good. I luv them & will never buy a pair of tinis shoes agian! Vibram Five Fingers are the best shoes ever!!!(Ps I am a huge shoe freak/fan, and I fell I love with these instantly. When you see the benifits of them, and people look or talk trash about you. Just tell them the benifits of VFF's and how they have changed your life…Their think twice next time.)
I like the picture of the posture adaptation to heels (the woman falling over). However, I think it would be wise to point out that it isn't always the case; it's just very often the case. If I stand barefoot with perfect posture, and then stand on my "tip-toes", I can still maintain that perfect posture. But it requires skillful balance in the feet and ankles. Wearing shoes with heels is basically walking around on your toes (but without as much tension in the lower leg because the heel is on a surface). It's easier to use the upper body and the knee instead of the foot and ankle to maintain balance for long periods of time, which is why lordosis and kyphosis occur. But with a conscious effort one can still maintain correct upper body posture while wearing heels; it just isn't likely to occur naturally. However, it obviously isn't good foot or ankle posture; and will result in imbalances that can spread up the chain of the body. Prolonged use of heels can result in "creep" of the calf muscles, meaning they shorten in an adaptation to always being in that slightly (or excessive) shortened state. Then when that individual walks barefoot with their shortened calfs, they can't even do it properly anymore because those muscles (along with intrinsic foot muscles) have lost some of their functionality. Increasing ankle flexibility (at least to a natural state) is essential for anyone who transitions to barefoot or minimalist footwear. And, obviously, heels should be worn minimally or never.
Hey John Fawkes & 4-Hour friends, If you want the FiveFingers feel while still looking as sharp as Tim's knife collection, I may have the barefoot dress shoe for you =) We set out to create a shoe that looks indistinguishable from the most conservative Oxford. A shoe you could wear through a job interview and into a black tie affair, without compromising barefoot comfort. And in that end, I believe we've succeeded. You can learn about our story, product features, and more at http://www.theprimalprofessional.com, and find us on facebook.com/thePrimalProfessional If you help us spread the word to reach our $50,000 pre-order goal, they'll be ready for you early 2012 =)
I used to hate running. It felt more like a punishment than something fun to do. After reading Born to Run this summer though, I became motivated to try using minimalist shoes. Maybe the big clunkers I was running in were the problem! I started too fast too soon with my VFFs, and my ankles, achilles, and calves were so sore for weeks. I got in the habit of slowly building up my distances, and can now run 6 miles in them. The shoes really do change your style of running to short, choppy steps. At first it seems like it takes more effort, but once you become accustomed to it it feels a lot more effortless and relaxing than the style I was using before. I hope to complete a marathon in them, but I know I have a while before I can be running those distances. I've put this task in my bucket list though so now I have to start training!
I've been wearing them for about five months in my martial arts class. I'm a teacher of Taekwon-Do but because of psoriasis on my feet, I can't teach bare foot anymore. VFFs are great for my needs. I can protect my feet but they give me all the flexibility of training and teaching bare foot.
Awesome review, thanks so much! I was wondering which style to choose so I will go for the classic. I am 49 and trying to return to exercise because of low back pain, it's been tough. I don't think I ever really injured my back either (but I guess I did, I have 2 bulging discs) but I had to stop pilates and I feel like getting back in the swing of exercise. I'm eating organic, holistic, high fat and have felt much better (www.westona.price.com) so these shoes are my next ticket, thanks again SO much!
OMG i newer ever thought that there can be shoes similar to gloves. Well done!
Just been reading "Born to Run" and I've been inspired to try barefoot running. Went to a store and tried on a pair of Vibram Trek Sport. Sadly I was having real trouble getting them on. Was so hard to get my toes into the right…well fingers isn't the right word but you get what I mean. I think my toes have been mashed together from a lifetime of shoes that they're not used to it. If I buy them, will putting them on get easier over time?
Hi Tim, for me it has gotten much easier to get the shoes on after a while. It takes soem practice. If that will happen for you is something I can nto say. Tip is to hold the shoe so that it slightly to the outside of your foot when putting on. When your toes just start to enter the fingers, wiggle them slightly and make any necessary adjustments. This takes a while to begin, but I slip them on in under three seconds each these days.
Thanks Brian. I think I will get a pair and just persevere until it gets easier. That and schedule in an extra 15 minutes to my workouts to get them on 🙂
Hey, So I started using my Vibrams for squash but it has been a bit awkward, especially when I have to lunge for the ball. I'm mostly either using the same technique as I do in shoes and getting hurt, or moving too cautiously. Before proceeding to practice in them, I'd like to know if anyone has figured out how to modify squash form to make them effective and injury reducing. Thanks!
Well I can't wear these. My second and middle toe on one foot are kinda fused together. Lol yeah I kno imma weirdo. But really, nobody notices it unless their face is less than two feet away from my foot.
Been searching since I just got a pair of Komodosports and KSO treks (I think that is the name, christmas present so i don't have them yet). I wore them a bit at work the first night, doing some foot massaging, toe stretching exercises I found. Wore them more the next morning before switching back to shoes (all indoor so far) and then a few hours more that night. I think I over did it. One little toe opened up underneath (granted I think it has spent many years curled up into the next toe so stretching it out may have burst something that was already there). I didn't wear them today because of the cut and my feet and legs ACHED!! Resorted to working sock foot (mostly alone before the holidays) which was better. I'm not sure what to do. I want to wear them but don't want to aggravate the cut. I don't run but used to exercise barefoot. I have also used shoe inserts for a long time (and not surprising that my arches ache as I force them to be stronger). Wish they had a warmer treaded shoe for winter. Thanks, AndyB, NH.
great shoes but wear out in 3 months…can't afford that! Will have to go back to regular shoes…too bad. Hope they find stronger materials for the soles.
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I wore terraplana barefoot shoes for a couple of months which have the advantage that they don't look quite so silly. But I will testify, your feet will HURT when you first start wearing them. Sure we were meant to walk barefoot, but we WEREN'T meant to walk on cement.
Nice post. I bought the vibrams with the full toe box. I kind of overdid it in the beginning and gave myself tendonitis. Whoops. I took some time off and have gotten so much better with them. And I don't run in them. I just wear them as an everyday shoe. I've found my gait is changing. Plus, when I put on my Asics, my feet hurt and they feel so unnatural. I just stick with my vibrams or flipflops now.
Whoa! I'm seriously overweight woman with a lot of feet problems. I tried VFFs and after two days I can walk without pain longer than for ages. I hope this is really helping with my plantar fasciitis and stuff… And people are very interested about these "very original" shoes 😛
Thinking about getting a pair if only to relieve the constant pain from a soft corn between my pinkie toe and the adjacent toe. I do a lot of walking each day and am tired of pain with every step. Tried every shoe under the sun with no relief, and got no useful advice from the ortho doc other than shaving the bone on my toe which I don't want to do. Has anyone found relief with the VFFs from this complaint?
I always get blisters! Do these help prevent them?
Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It actually was a enjoyment account it. Look complex to more brought agreeable from you! By the way, how could we keep up a correspondence?
I'm 60 and have had painful, unhappy feet for most of these years. I have the opposite issue, high arches and so called pronation. I was put in AA width shoes and orthothics. Result – knee, hip and neck pain. To run, I changed my shoes every 4 months, plus more and more extreme orthotics. Resulted in severe achillies tendonitis. After reading Born to Run and taking a lesson from Barefoot Ted, I got some 5fingers. After about a year, I no longer suffer from any biomechanical distress, am way more flexable and generally more fun to be around. My feet have become wider and I really cannot tolerate any stiff, foot controlling shoes anymore. Love my funny VFF's.
I wear Vibram Fivefingers KSOs for martial arts and weight training and love them, but I wouldn't run in the Classics or KSO's, I'd want more cushion for running in urban settings. I am skeptical of the arguments in "Born to Run". I just read NYT science reporter Gretchen Reynolds' new book on fitness, "The First 20 Minutes" and she has a few pages reviewing the latest research on running barefoot or in typical running shoes, it's a wash as far as efficiency goes, and many anthropologists say humans aren't born to run, they are born to walk and that hunter-gatherers hunt by walking prey down, not running them down (running is a LOT less energy-efficient than walking). I wear Vibram Fivefingers for martial arts and weight training and love them, but I wouldn't run in the Classics or KSO's, I'd want more cushion for running in urban settings.
Basic nutrition without fat is good. I dont like sour food
Howdy just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the pictures aren't loading properly. I'm not sure why but I think its a linking issue. I've tried it in two different internet browsers and both show the same outcome.
I got a pair a while back and they were too small. recently i got a new pair, perfect size and thought I could go right back into it…2 weeks of running and one day my big toe joint hurt like crazy…still trying to recover. i want to run damn it!
I have to say that the actual first time I saw these "VFFs" I was thinking, "Who would want to wear a shoe that looks like a foot of a frog?". But my running buddy said that he would wear one because it looks "cool". I thought these things are for running addicts that would spend money on those sort of "funny" looking shoes just for their shoe collection or something but I haven't really considered on looking it up online to see what's the fuss all about. Though I have actually thought about barefoot running and have admired runners who do this. I also have another friend who bought a pair and have said that she really liked them especially with walking. Interestingly, reading your take on it changed my mind as I now want to try Vibrams to have a go at barefoot running. I don't have any problems with my lower back though but I think this is a great support and will improve my back health even more. Thank you for writing this!
I thought these were weird at first but they have changed my life. It even helped with my posture.
I picked up a pair of KSO's a few years ago, and gave up on them altogether after just a couple weeks. I've been in capoeira, BJJ, Muay Thai, and Yoga on and off for the last decade, so I've already spent tons of time exercising while barefoot, and I love it – it feels so much more natural. Running barefoot, though, is something I've never been able to get into. I gave up on the KSO's because they fit horribly. My big toe barely fits into their big toe – I really have to jam it in there – and my little toe is apparently much more little than they were expecting cause it always slips out and then slides into the same toe-compartment that my ring-toe is already in. I quickly moved on to a pair of Merrel Trial Gloves and use them for everything now. Hiking, trail running, biking, weight-lifting – you name it. Luckily for us people who's feet don't fit the perfect Vibram expectation, there is not a lot of options out there, and most of them are far better looking as well.
got a pair of KSOs and fell in love with them right away. But started to worry that the soles would wear quickly with everyday city use. I talked to Vibram and settled on the Speed shoe for a 2nd pair. They look very like everyday shoes (leather tops, and laces!), but have a strong multiSport sole. That model is exclusive to REI, btw.
Hey Tim, this seems like a pretty old post. I'm wondering if you still have zero back pain.. that is if you're still rocking it VFF style? Great post. I like finding old gems like this and sharing them.
I've been wearing Vibram for about 3 years and I just recently I managed to convince my wife, who thought they were ugly, to give them a try. Now she can't live without. High heels belong to the past! Best shoes ever! http://www.alectorelli.com/blog/breaking-the-rules-of-style-vibram/
I know a lot of people who found help for shin splints through barefoot running. I have learned that for a certain type of running gait the impacts are higher, specifically for underpronators. Using shoes like these depending on the training might not always be smart. But I would still recommend it for majority of people.
Vibram Five Fingers is undoubtedly the most comfortable shoes I ever had. These shoes are ideal for walking, jogging, running, hiking, skiing, and surfing.
As an avid trail runner, and fan of the minimalist running shoes, I have to say after having tried these during a couple half marathons, I'm so not a fan – not to mention they're just not the best looking shoe on the trail either. I'll stick to my New Balance minimalist gear for now – but certainly also doesn't hurt to run in your bare feet either! Just be sure to run on the grass or sand though.
Just want to shim in and say that five fingers are awesome, they can do wonders to you posture too. Check out this TED talk about why that’s such a great thing. http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are.html Later. 🙂
I would like to assent with what David wrote above. I bought my first pair of Vibram Five Fingers over 4 yrs ago, and I have been using them A LOT. Mostly for outdoor running, but also when I travel to warmer countries (my last tour when to Thailand). They are truly outstanding and easily the most comfortable shoes that I’m currently aware of. Cheers.
I pay a visit everyday some websites and blogs to read posts, but this web site gives quality based content.
Don't buy those. Vibram got sued and lost. It has been proven that the shoes have no effect on health, even worse, they may do you harm. Now Vibram has to pay a hefty sum for its mischief.
I am a 62 year old male,for the last 3yrs, I have only worn V 5-Fingers; I will never put any other shoe on my feet. The way my body has responded to V 5- finger is God sent. I call 5- fingers my structural adjustment shoe, no back pain,knee pain,no tender heals. I am playing basketball, distant running. I realize know that the toes are to move freely and when there was worn heals it would effect me in a negative way.
Lots of people tend to transition too quickly to barefoot and end up injuring themselves as you say. Its an odd feeling as you build strength in muscles you never really use in traditional footwear but its very useful for all sorts of physical activities including running, climbing, field sports and water sports. [Moderator: link removed]
WOW!. I have worn VFFs for close to 6 years now and rarely wear anything else. I too had back issues (HAD) No more, great to wear comfortable beyond belief. Great talking point wherever I go. The wife said they were fugly when I first got them. She owns 2 pairs now LOL.
Please be advised; if you have feet which aren't exactly the size/shape of VFF models, you may be better off simply trying to walk barefoot. I have quite long toes, found that VFFs altered my gait compared to just being barefoot. Also, the cushioning lets you get away with stuff which might hurt barefoot (this may be good or bad)
I want to order these shoes. can i buy them online if yes kindly share me the link.
Thank you for posting this informative blog about these awesome shoes. These lightweight shoes will give optimum comfort and feel to our feet. I think this shoe will help a lot of people with their medical issues. This post is a must read for everyone who are looking for medically approved shoes. Looking forward to read your next post.
Hi Tim, great read. I have been using vivobarefoot shoes now for almost a year, it's tough to wear "normal" shoes now, especially dress shoes. Great to see how quick your body transforms into its natural position if we let it. I was wondering what's your take on foot reflexology in combination with foot health, overall health and recovery, and using foot reflexology to increase blood circulation while working. Easy combined while working at a standing desk. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks, Bernhard
You might want to re-read, I see He says run on the balls of your feet, (2)…. I'm quite sure running on the heels in vibrams would well hurt a LOT as all the impact energy is translated straight into your body instead of into forward momentum so heel strike would be bio-mechanically inefficient. When running in athletic shoes with a raised heel it shifts the strike to the rear of the foot as theirs a raised cushion in the heel. Despite the cushion that energy still translates up the body and not into forward momentum so basically it's lost. Please correct me if I'm wrong but that's what I'm reading here and what I've experienced myself.
I use Vibram for the past two years. Ran 4 marathons so far. Great shoes. If you have Plantar Fasciitis, avoid Vibram or going barefoot. Don't put too many miles. First fix that problem. It took two months for me t get rid of sever case of plantar fasciitis. With proper exercise, you can hopefully overcome in two or three weeks. Good luck,
Ah man sorry to hear that. You have to be VERY careful to ease your way into barefoot running. If you ever feel pain or discomfort stop, evaluate and start the training again on a new day with necessary adjustments in stride. Those of us that began running / walking in shoes have a much different gait / stride than those that have been without shoes. Our muscles and bones can also have dramatic differences. The transition takes a lot of time and effort to do without injury. I've been working at it for about a year now. I can run around 5-6 miles on pavement in Vibrams. However, in the beginning I couldn't do more than a 1/4 mile or so w/o experiencing excruciating pain and the worst shin splints in my life. So I backed off and only walked in them until I built up enough strength and flexibility in my calf to run. Everybody's a bit different and you have to listen to your body carefully when you start up. Best of luck and hope your surgery goes well.
Yes, Vibram five fingers are available for women and for kids. I hope they will also make one for toddlers!
You might have even better luck with the shoes and back difficulties if you try some exercises / stretches / etc. to work on your posterior chain. There's lots of different things to try. Kettlebell swings are an excellent starting point though 🙂 Any crossfit gym typically has training programs for them. Otherwise their's also a whole slew of body weight exercises designed to rebalanced your back such as hip bridges.
I just bought the Bikila's. Hope to put up a review on my blog soooon. My honest opinion is they are a GREAT shoe. However, it depends on what you are doing. I got them as I run on a semi abrasive track surface that eats up the regular sole material on Vibrams. In my opinion & experience the KSO model is a healthier shoe as it gives more feedback with the ground. But in the end both are probably better for you that what you're wearing right now… and close but not quite as healthy as going shoe less 🙂
Andy. I bought these shoes and thought I would love them and my back pain would disappear, not. I found out that my feet are pretty unstable and so the shoes causes worse back pain. I am doing something called MAT and I highly recommend it. I will be able to wear these shoes in the future but not until the rest of my body is more stable. Insoles are the WORST thing one can do to their feet. The foot MUST be able to move in whatever we have on our feet. Believe it or not, shoes with no support is best so that your foot can "find" it's own strength and balance. M.A.T is a type of muscular activation which wakes up muscles that heretofore were not in use due to over compensation, injury etc. and it gets each muscle doing it's assigned task and then you can wear the shoes and then gradually until your feet are prepared for it. It's a bit of a long"trek" but well worth it.
I can answer my own question! Absolutely no pain whatsoever from the soft corn while wearing VFFs. Side benefit – for the first time in years I don't wake up in the morning with back pain. I thought it was my mattress, but apparently it was my shoes. REI sale KSOs vs. a new mattress = happy husband who didn't have to shell out a few hundred dollars for a new mattress!
You may still be heal striking. When you truly walk/run on your well padded forefoot, 5fingers will last a long time.
I hadn't actually seen that Vibram has had to pay up, although reading through some of the comments on Runners World a lot of people still credit Vibram shoes with improving their posture and fitness. In fact there a lot of great reviews all over the internet!
You can still experience blisters in places where your skin is rubbing on the shoe somewhere. I have a callus built up on some toes as a result and they're fine now they've toughened up. If the same area continually blisters without building a callus then its not getting enough air to harden the skin I'm guessing.
Jawa: What kind of exercise did you do to overcome plantar fasciitis? Isn't it a breakdown of the fascia on the bottom of the foot? How do you strengthen / reinforce that? Does it have partly to do with diet as well? I've been curious about how people have overcome it before. Thanks!!!
Lore, A quick look about MAT (it's late here) seemed to show either going to a personal trainer (I work till 9PM most nights so that would be a challenge) or buying a dvd (I don't mind that as long as it's reputable). Any dvd types or websites you'd suggest? I admit I need to get back in shape in general. In the past I have had good experience using the Power 90 (not P90X, yet) family of dads but I lose the weight, start to feel good then fall off the program into bad habits (eating, bad sleeping, laziness). I'd like to investigate this MAT more but I think anything on a regular basis would be a "step" in the right direction. I didn't notice my feet being unstable (no more so than in normal shoes) and if I hadn't noticed my little toes opened up I'd still be wearing them (the shoes, and my toes!). I did feel my feet need toughening and my leg muscles were straining and my legs did KILL for the next couple days. Moderation is tough for me. Thanks for the suggestion, AndyB, NH.
As far as I understand, the legal case was taken against Vibram USA because they overstated health claims before evidence was published. Many people seem to have transitioned too quickly causing more injury as a result, its expected that in the long run the effects will be shown. That said, its always best to do your own research and listen to your body!