"Barefoot" Running and Vibram Five Fingers

[HalifaxHooligan]

Has anyone heard of barefoot running or Vibram Five Fingers before? Has anyone tried them? I suspect some of the Crossfitters around here may have as they're apparently becoming quite popular in the CF community.

I strongly suggest reading up on this new trend (and if it's right for you), but to sum it up in a nutshell;

The idea behind them is that we as human beings are designed to run barefoot and not in shoes.

The argument is that in shoes, we cannot actually feel the full impact we are putting on our feet, body and joints as running shoes are designed to absorb that impact of striking the ground. The problem is that because of that absorption, we are continuing to run when we should be stopping. Many people (including a growing number of doctors, physiotherapists and podiatrists) are now stating (with facts) that they believe that running in shoes actually causes MORE damage to people by putting additional stresses and strains on our joints.

So, enter Vibram Five Fingers.

It's a shoe, but it's not a shoe. It's more along the lines of a glove, but for your foot.

At first impression, they look ridiculous. There's no question about that. They look like toe socks. I first saw them on a friend of mine and I thought he was nuts for wearing them in public (especially since his were bright red in color). But, he praised them so enthusiastically, I had no choice but to look into it for myself.

Turns out, there's NO SHORTAGE of interesting information about both the benefits and dangers of barefoot running.

I did my homework and finally decided to convert. I purchased a pair of the VFF KSO's and I'm going to give them a try. First impression (beyond the physical appearance) is that they were really a pain in the ass to get on, but once they were on, they are extremely comfortable. I'm planning on giving them a go on the treadmill and see how they (and I) feel.

For those interested:

Company Website: http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/

I also suggest checking out their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vibram-FiveFingers/20025344225

The Facebook page contains loads of links to articles about the "barefoot" running movement.

MEC also stocks them - with free shipping within Canada. http://www.mec.ca -> Look under WATERSPORTS and then FOOTWEAR.

[hmckay91]

In his first book, journalist and former war correspondent Christopher McDougall suggests — or proves, depending on your degree of skepticism — that running extremely long distances barefoot is the key to health, happiness and longevity. Brand-name footwear, with its gel-based cushioning and elaborate architecture of super-advanced support, is a common cause of athletic injury, he argues.


It is a pretty decent read as its "part adventure, part extreme sports, all inspiration" and does touch on barefoot running and the authors injury and recovery experiences. I recall the "five fingers" or similar product being mentioned as well.

[t_lag]

I've got a pair of KSO's as well and I love them. I use them in the gym all the time.

At first, they are a PITA to get on, but once they get broken in they're great.

A word of caution if you are planning on running in them. Take your time, and do small distances to start. They will force you to alter your running method. You won't be able to run heel to toe. You'll be running on the balls of your feet. You'll be running more of a Pose technique. And your calves will be extremely sore until they get used to being used that much while running.

As for purchasing them, MEC here in Ottawa doesn't stock them anymore, regardless of what it says on the website. I bought mine straight from the Vibram website. Good price and shipping was fairly quick.

[HalifaxHooligan]

I appreciate the advice on running t_lag, I haven't ventured out with them yet. I suspect with the weather, I'll be limited to treadmill running for the first little bit anyway.

PITA to get on is an understatement! These things were absolutely insane to put on at first.

I think it's all just an elaborate sale pitch. Once you get them on, you'll never want the hassle of putting them on again...haha! Day two with them has been much better though, so they DO get easier!

I've heard a lot about different techniques for cleaning them. Any tips/tricks at keeping the "pong" down?

[t_lag]

Not sure what you mean by pong, but I just throw them in the washing machine when they start to smell.

I just saw an idea on the facebook page about using Efferdent, used for dentures, apparently works well to clean them up.

[HalifaxHooligan]

Not sure what you mean by pong, but I just throw them in the washing machine when they start to smell.

I just saw an idea on the facebook page about using Efferdent, used for dentures, apparently works well to clean them up.

I've noticed quite a few people calling the smell "pong". Not sure why or where it originated from.

I saw the Efferdent idea as well (I'm a fan on Facebook too), but I'd be concerned about the other chemicals in one of those tablets. I've heard that peppermint oil seems to help or that Penguin Sport Wash detergent.

Guess I'll have to experiment.