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Vibram FiveFingers Sprint

rated 4.5 of 5 stars
photo: Vibram FiveFingers Sprint barefoot / minimal shoe

Eye-catching minimalist shoes which can be used for free running, pose running, as sail shoes or even for yoga. Not recommended for daily use (build up to it) but for those certain events that can use these shoes.

Pros

  • Minimalist
  • Many uses
  • Unique appearance

Cons

  • Waterlogged easily...heavy
  • Can irritate upper foot

I've had my Fivefingers since spring of 2008. There were only three designs and these were the ones for me.  I preferred the Sprint style over the Classic as the upper foot would be supported by a rubber and velcro strap. They will be snug and difficult to get on at first, you'll have to do it one toe at a time, but eventually it is easy to slip them on and off.

I used them for indoor rock climbing, yoga class, and whenever I didn't want to wear shoes or sandals. It has a thick sole, so walking in creek beds or on rocky surfaces are a breeze. Since they are so form fitting, there is no ankle support, so if you turn your ankle easily you may want to shy away (depending on what activity you are doing). No real break=in time for the shoes, but there may be a break-in time for YOUR BODY! Shin muscles and calf muscles will be used more in these do not have the shock absorption or stability of normal shoes.

The Fivefingers grip well on wet surfaces, but if they become submerged, it can become a pain. The entire Vibram sole is solid rubber (in these, not so in newer versions) so drainage of water is an issue.  At times I would find myself squeezing the water out or holding my foot vertical to let the water drain. The rubber/velcro strap is also great at keeping my foot inside the shoe but may cause irritation if you get wet or sweat on your feet.  I haven't had a problem with my heel or toes rubbing.

My pair have definitely stood the test of time (about 5 years) and are still strong.  The rubber sole is very durable and clean up is a breeze.  Just throw them in the sink or wash under a hose, no worries.  

EDIT: Added picture of shoes, note the strap (rubber and velcro):

IMG_20130716_204955.jpg

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: ~$70 (year 2008)

I recently received these "shoes" as a gift. They are awesome. I was at first a little unsure about the individual toes, but they feel great and offer great comfort and support to your foot. They feel very similar to wearing moccasins, which I have spent a great deal of time in, but the sole is much more sturdy and protects from even the sharpest rocks. You can still feel them under your foot, but they they don't really hurt. The sole is also thin enough to give you a good feeling of the trail that is under your feet. I haven't had them very long, but so far I absolutely love them and wouldn't think of leaving home without them.

Materials: Vibram outsole, with spandex upper
Use: short dayhikes, trail walking, approach shoe, bouldering
Break-in Period: none
Weight: next to nothing
Price Paid: $80

These are great shoes! When I got them they were hard to find and I have now had them for 5 years!

I have done all sorts of activities in them, some hiking, some climbing, some biking etc. but they are my favorite water shoes of all time! I am often at the lake with my family and my dad owns a boat, they are the perfect lake shoes! You can feel everything, yet I have stepped on glass and been totally fine!

They do promote wellness and better feeling and since having them I noticed (wearing them all summer the first summer) I did have better balance and an overall joy in my legs.

Price Paid: 85

So far these are the best trail "shoes" I have ever had, after I used some Merrel ones. I go running in them every morning sometimes in the rain and I have not lost my grip once despite running up and down hills. I would suggest these for any backpacker of runner person who needs good "shoes" for a cheap price.

Price Paid: 80 $

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Specs

Men's
Price Historic Range: $19.83-$80.00
Reviewers Paid: $70.00-$80.00
Women's
Price Historic Range: $29.95-$80.00
Kids'
Price Historic Range: $12.83-$55.00
Product Details from Vibram »

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