Vibram Fivefingers KSO Barefoot: Best Fivefingers Model (Vibram Fivefingers KSO Barefoot)

Member Name: psanderson

Product:	Vibram Fivefingers KSO Barefoot
Date:	21/09/09 (99 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Secure to foot, very natural feel, eye catching, barefoot feel with protection

Disadvantages: Hurts when you first use them, old pairs can become smelly.

I saw these shoes a few years ago and only recently decided to purchase a pair. They are quite expensive (I paid £100 in the UK), but they are very durable (Vibram are shoe soles as Goretex is to waterproofing).
Anyone buying them should defiantly try a pair on first as you may need to drop a few sizes to get a snug fit. The idea behind them is that most shoes are unnatural and they make you walk in an unnatural way, but the way you walk wearing Vibram Five Fingers is more like bare foot walking. It increases proprioception of your foot, strengthens your ankle, and makes your posture better because you aren't wearing heels that elevate your heel in a standing position.

I originally got the pair of KSO's to replace sandals for the summer and initially they do feel a bit weird but they really are great shoes. They made my feet hurt when I first started wearing them but it was because I was so used to the cushioning of a normal trainer. I've used them walking, running, cycling, kayaking and climbing. The main advantage of the KSO model is the strap to secure it to your foot and mesh cover to keep stuff out, but it still doesn't keep your foot warm in colder weather. The flow model might keep your warmer or maybe combine with toe socks (Vibram have their own brand Injinji Socks).

The downside which is also common to other footwear you use without socks is that a pair can become smelly after time.

Summary: Best barefoot type shoe out there.