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Vibram FiveFingers

5.9K views 16 replies 14 participants last post by  OselLing  
#1 ·
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 ?
 
#2 ·
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.
 
#11 ·
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.
 
#4 ·
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.
 
#8 ·
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!
 
#9 ·
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 :)
 
#10 ·
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
 
#12 ·
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.
 
#13 ·
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.
 
#14 ·
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 :p

Vivo's or Minimus with toe socks underneath for me if at all though I mostly don't wear my minimal shoes.
 
#16 ·
I have been toying with the idea of getting a pair of these for ages...In the past I have been wearing motion control shoes to protect my joints from any damage but I have been informed that ironically the mc shoes may actually be responsible for the knee pains I have recently been experiencing.One thing tho I havent got much of an arch...almost flat so would barefoot/minimalist running still be good...I hope so as I would still like to have a go.

One more thing there are a few VFF in the range so which one would you particularly recommend.
 
#17 ·
I have low arches, I over pronated in stability shoes and had sore knees and groins. After 10 months of barefoot / minimal running all these problem are solved although I did pick up a few minor injuries during the transition but I'm now running pain free.