My New Vibram FiveFingers

I was lucky enough to receive a pair of Vibram FiveFingers for Christmas last week.  I asked Santa for the KSO model since they seemed to be the best fit for my goal needs.  If they work out well I will likely have to move up to the KSO Trek.

After wearing them around the house all weekend I found them to be comfortable and easy to wear.  I have rather short toes and a wide foot so I was concerned about the fit.  They fit perfect on my big toe to heal which is important.  The other toes are a little roomy in the ends, especially my pinkie toe but I still have a good “like a glove” fit.  My toes line up well as long as I take the time to place each toe in the proper spot and insure a good fit.  This does mean that it takes a few minutes to put them on which I would not have anticipated.   I understand and appreciate the comments I found about people who have really long toes finding the VFF unwearable.  Fortunately my genetics did not make this an issue.  It did take a while for me to get used to having something between my toes.

Yesterday I decided to take the plunge and begin running in them.  My research suggested that it is best to gradually ease into running barefoot/near barefoot so I ran/walked 2.5 miles.  Today I understand why.  As predicted my calf muscles are sore.  The VFF have you run on the ball of your foot so it puts more strain on the calf which is not the case for a typical heel to toe stride in a Nike.  As a result I am using new muscles.   I usually feel sore in my knees and thighs after running which today feel great.  I am quite literally learning how to run all over again.The best part for me about the VFF is how fun they are to wear and it is the first time my shoes have been such a conversation piece.  I’m not sure if I could get away wearing them on a casual Friday…….