Vibram FiveFingers

Sam312 · #1 28th Jul 12, 10:19 AM

Ok, so ordered some of these and they just arrived.
Really struggled to get them on... Just putting this down to the type of shoe though?
Not sure whether I need the next size. They do fit, and my toes fit fine and everything but the Velcro strap is a bit tight ( however I have rather wide feet)
Do they just need worn in? How was your first experience with Vibrams and should I get a bigger size or give these guys a chance ?

JoshMcAllister · #2 28th Jul 12, 11:21 AM

Really strange choice of trainer for a new runner, where you advised by anyone to buy these or was it through choice. I cant speak from experience as i have never worn a pair but my sisters boyfriend swares by them, ive always heard from him though that your feet should feel free and light, as if you weren't wearing them at all. If i was you i would take them down to a local specialist trader and ask their advice, the wrong type of shoe may lead to injury.

Sam312 · #3 28th Jul 12, 11:33 AM

Just heard a lot of good things about them an was after a New pair or running shoes, got them off the Internet, think I may sell them on and reconsider my choices :/ xxx

BelleBot · #4 28th Jul 12, 11:48 AM

They should be fairly tight, but not so tight that they're uncomfortable. I had to size down in 5 fingers as the next size up was too roomy. I always find it's takes a while to get mine on I have to wiggle my toes about to get them to fit into each little pocket.

Go for a test run/walk in them, remember to take it slow at first and go for very short runs as your feet need to get used to them. Don't try and do too much too soon as they can change your running style which takes some getting used to.

They have some foot exercises on the Vibram website as to how to strengthen your feet and get used to using different foot muscles. Also try and get used to walking barefoot as much as possible, around the house and the garden etc, it all helps build up foot strength.

Trying to run! · #5 28th Jul 12, 01:21 PM

Did you use the size guide on the vibram website? Heels against wall, measure to big toe etc?

Sam312 · #6 28th Jul 12, 01:33 PM

Yeah, might just be because I'm not used to them. Might give them a chance like belle says

I do have like abnormally wide feet though lol xx

Bobby · #7 28th Jul 12, 02:30 PM

I have feet like a duck, and mine fit fine.

ButtonPusher · #8 28th Jul 12, 03:33 PM

They should feel very snug but not so tight that they restrict movement. Your longest toe (not necessarily the 'big' toe) should just about touch the end if its compartment.

Any huge errors to be blamed on the iPhone's bloody annoying autocorrect!

Tomiam · #9 28th Jul 12, 04:27 PM

Mine are like neither loose nor tight but then Ive been wearing mine for the best part of a year nearly every day.
The velco strap, before you do it up, scrunch up your toes as it makes the top arch of your foot a little higher. Then do it up. You'll find its very slightly looser this way.

Hope this helps

Tony_Jones · #10 30th Jul 12, 08:39 AM

As mentioned, they should be a bit snug. I have weird toes so mine don't fill the toe compartments, but they feel OK.

+1 on scrunching up the toes, this is definitely the way to do it. With time, you'll be able to slip them on and get comfy in next to no time

I think they're fantastic to be honest, landing mid foot feels right to me, and the only pain I get is doms in my Achilles and calves after running because my body is getting used to them. No shin splints or knee aches

Give them a go and you'll learn to love them!

Tony

Sent from my HTC Desire HD using Tapatalk 2

SillyFencer · #11 30th Jul 12, 08:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sam312

Just heard a lot of good things about them an was after a New pair or running shoes, got them off the Internet, think I may sell them on and reconsider my choices :/ xxx

You can return anything bought over the internet.

socialrunner · #12 11th Sep 12, 11:09 AM

I heard a tip that when you buy them put your hand in to start with to kid of stretch them. I don't think they should be really difficult to get on and just to bear in mind that we all have different shaped feet so they will fit some better than others.

I've written a blog about a run clinic I attended with some points on building up to minimalist running in case it helps.

OselLing · #13 18th Sep 12, 08:30 AM

Make sure you have bought genuine VFF from an authorised retailer. There are lots of fakes made in china and the sizing is all over the place. If you're not sure check out Birthday Shoes site or you tube on how to spot a fake.

bigcog · #14 18th Sep 12, 08:42 AM

VFF are not for everyone. The shape assumes you have toes in a neat angle. My toes quite sharply set back especially my little toe. When I tried a pair of VFF's even going for smaller and smaller sizes my little toe did not go in the last toe of the shoe. So there's a little toe bit of them flapping about

Vivo's or Minimus with toe socks underneath for me if at all though I mostly don't wear my minimal shoes.

Milzeh · #15 18th Sep 12, 10:32 AM

My big inside toe is the same length as my big toe. Good luck with them I'm going to get a pair of Newton's when I go barefoot route.