Shoe question..

[pdcollins6092]

I know some of you like boots and some like trail runners but have any of you seen these? I plan on useing boots for the cold weather but would like something somewhat cooler for the hotter weather but really not a big fan of trail runners. I was just wondering if anyone has had these and your thoughts are of them. They are supose to feel more like being barefoot but with the protection of having a sole. Here is a link to the site for them so you can get more details about them.
http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/index.htm

http://i54.tinypic.com/24ccp4o.jpg

[Hooch]

They're a cute little novelty, but offer zero support and zero cushioning. But, then again , HYOH.

[JAK]

It is good to see they make them in kids sizes. They make more sense for kids.

[One Half]

I know some of you like boots and some like trail runners but have any of you seen these? I plan on useing boots for the cold weather but would like something somewhat cooler for the hotter weather but really not a big fan of trail runners. I was just wondering if anyone has had these and your thoughts are of them. They are supose to feel more like being barefoot but with the protection of having a sole. Here is a link to the site for them so you can get more details about them.
http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/index.htm

http://i54.tinypic.com/24ccp4o.jpg


I wear these at work (I train people at a gym). I just started using them last summer. They take some getting used to and your feet definitely get stronger and need to do more work. I don't think I would advise anyone to just bust out and use them for hiking. I am taking them along as camp shoes this weekend. I may do some hiking in them. I run in them often. I will let everyone know how that goes. They are excellent for river/stream crossings, weigh next to nothing, and dry quickly.

[Shiraz-mataz]

The zero arch support and cushioning are actually their appeal - that's what I like about VFF's. Make your feet work for once! Your feet may be sore for awhile but they will reward you in the long run with stronger arches and overall better foot health. I've used my KSO's on a 25 mile section with no trouble.

[Blissful]

If your feet can handle barefoot walking, why not? Some can.

[LDog]

Backpackinglight just did a review on minimalist footwear:
http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/minimalist_footwear_summer_backpacking.html?id=8z8 ap4PD:97.92.56.229

[thomas533]

I've hiking been in my VFF KSOs for the last two years and love it. Some models offer more protection than other but the more you hike in them, the more comfortable your feet will get without having the protection that we've all gotten used to with regular shoes.

You'll get a lot of fun reactions from other hikers and a lot of non-experts telling you that you will hurt your self. All I can say is give it a shot if it is something that you think you might like!

[Papa D]

Wear trail runners - day in day out, that
Is the level of support you want - i wouldn't
Consider these were I you. If you want to
Do a couple of barefoot miles somewhere
Just do that

[Joker4ink]

I have never hiked in my TrekSports but they have zero toe protection as you can see. I need a boot with some sort of toe protection. If you notice you hit the toe of your boots on rocks frequently, I would say no to hiking in them. I have heard of people hiking in them but don't have any personal experience.

[tuswm]

I work and work out on the beach every day in the summer so when i got mine there was virtually no transition, i spend 6 months a year bare foot.

I live in PA in the winter and have not taken them out on the rocky trail yet. dont want to kick rocks.

I also can not imagine trying to run on them in pavement. I dont think we were supposed to run on surfaces that dont give. I do plan on finding a track to try them on.

Also I think my running shoes are much cooler, on the VFF anywhere there is runner there is 0 breath ability and you foot gets soaked in sweat.