Have a work with Vibram FiveFingers Shoes

PRLog (Press Release) - May 24, 2010 -
I’ve been testing the Sprint model,  which costs $80 and is made for hiking, yoga, sailing, surfing, canoeing, and “barefoot” running. Naturally, these shoes  fit tight, wrapping each toe and following the lines of your foot back to a  defined heel cup. The Sprint model has a Velcro strap that cinches over the top  of the foot for extra security.
 Despite the purported health advantages, first-time  FiveFingers wearers have to be careful, especially for running. I am a regular runner,  and I prefer shoes that promote minimal support in favor of bolstering foot and  leg strength. But the FiveFingers philosophy is the epitome of this minimalism,  as there’s zero cushioning underfoot.
 You feel sticks, stones and cracks in the sidewalk through  the shoes. The sole serves only to protect your skin, not your joints.
 How do you know when to buy new shoes? Well, holes, or  pieces falling off are generally good indicators...But if it is not that  obvious, look for all of the qualities that you used to choose the athletic  shoe in the first place. Is the heel box still sturdy? Is the upper as rigid as  it needs to be to control your foot? Is the arch still in good shape, or have  you worn down one side of the sole? Answer these questions, and inspect your  shoes often to keep them protecting your feet.
 OK,  clear your throat. Now let out a hearty laugh. Yes, these are gloves for your  feet, and they look silly. Now listen: Vibram USA is onto  something here. I have run close to 100 miles in a pair of Vibram shoes at http://www.five-fingers-vibram.org  , and darn if  I’m not becoming a convert.
 Marketed as the first footwear to offer “the sensation of  going barefoot with the protection and security of a sole,” Vibram’s Five Fingers  shoe-gloves have stretchy synthetic uppers and thin rubber soles. Vibram touts  its three FiveFingers models as promoting better foot health and stimulating  the muscles in the feet and lower legs for greater balance, agility and  strength. Other potential benefits the company cites include better posture and  reduced back pain.
 I’ve been testing the Sprint model, which costs $80 and is  made for hiking, yoga, sailing, surfing, canoeing, and “barefoot” running.  Naturally, these shoes fit tight, wrapping each toe and following the lines of  your foot back to a defined heel cup. The Sprint model has a Velcro strap that  cinches over the top of the foot for extra security.
 Despite  the purported health advantages, first-time Vibram FiveFingers kso at http://www.five-fingers-vibram.org/vibram-fivefingers-kso... wearers have to be careful, especially for running. I am a regular runner, and  I prefer shoes that promote minimal support in favor of bolstering foot and leg  strength. But the FiveFingers philosophy is the epitome of this minimalism, as  there’s zero cushioning underfoot.  
 You feel sticks, stones and cracks in the sidewalk through  the shoes. The sole serves only to protect your skin, not your joints.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/10694878/1