Vibram/Newton/Barefoot Running support

LittleSpy

FYI: I picked up some New Balance 100s that were on mega sale (got 'em for $46) to wear to the gym & on popular public trails since my FiveFingers draw so much attention. I've only had them for a week but so far I'm really digging them & would definitely recommend them to someone transitioning to barefoot running.

Chenoachem

I've always run this way, in high school people used to comment on how "weird" I ran. Once I started running again this summer, I picked up some Newtons and they are so nice. I still run the same way in regular running shoes, but the Newtons are far superior to it. Are there any alternatives to the Virbrams that have the foot mold feel? I'd like to try them out once my Newtons are worn out, but I've read that they pretty much won't work for me because of my toes (my 2nd toe is quite a bit longer than my big toe).

They are the only ones with the molded toes but there are a few "normal" looking shoes that are just as minimalist. I have been using Asics Gel Hyperspeeds. They don't have any arch support or cushion. I feel every rock and pebble (and cactus thorn).

disneyfetishboy

Are there any alternatives to the Virbrams that have the foot mold feel? I'd like to try them out once my Newtons are worn out, but I've read that they pretty much won't work for me because of my toes (my 2nd toe is quite a bit longer than my big toe).

What do you mean by having "the foot mold feel"? Is the idea that you want the snugness to your feet and toes provided by the Vibrams, or that you simply want a very thin layer of rubber/material that will simply keep you from getting cuts/scrapes from sharp objects on the trail?

kangababy

Anyone tried out the Nike Free? Ever heard about the Skora ?

Just curious.

Here is a running times article about barefoot running that is interesting.

http://runningtimes.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=19196

I have both the 5F and the Nike Frees and I love both of them! The Frees are so comfortable I could wear them every where! I wear themt o loft weight and to to bootcamp in them! I am just not used to the 5F yet and my orthopedic told me to hold off a while and I will start using them next week when I start training again. I am going to use the C25K program to get used to them.
The frees are great though but they do get gravel caught up in them really easy!

mredmond94

I've been running minimalist now for three years, including several 5k's, a half, and a full marathon. Been using Merrell's (various models). Looking at the Skora shoes. Anyone using these? Fyi- since going minimalist I've stopped having calf strains and my knees are in great shape (I am 42 y/o).