The first time I saw someone wearing these “shoes” out on a trail I was definitely taken by surprise. Over the past 6 months they have become much more popular and I can’t remember the last time I was out on a trail that I did not come across at least one person that was wearing a pair. I admit…I find them kind of creepy looking.
Does anyone own a pair and can you please tell me what kind of support they provide you out on a trail in comparison to a pair of trail running shoes?
-FPMiv
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I wear them but I don’t wear running shoes. I have gone barefoot for most of my life and regular shoes cause me issues (mostly I suppose because they make me work different muscles and don’t allow my toes to spread out and balance me). I was so happy when these shoes came out. It is very hard to find hiking sandals that you don’t slip around in. There’s pretty much no support- they are just like wearing gloves on your feet. The original five-fingers have worn pretty well; I think I have gone almost 1000 miles in them with no structural issues. The only drawback I have found (as far as the originals go) is that they are a little slippery on sandy rock surfaces and heat soaks right through the bottom (which really really sucks when you’re out in mid-afternoon). I’m getting the treksports next.
If you aren’t used to walking barefoot, there’s a curve – it works different muscles. On the plus side, I have very strong arches, toes and ankles. I have never developed any Plantar fasciitis issues.