Titbit Tuesday

Vibram Five Fingers vs Huaraches

I was recently chatting to a family member who is thinking of taking up running again. He hasn't run in many years but is thinking about it now because there is a stage race in the second half of the year that he would like to do. He was also in touch with a physiotherapist who insists that running barefoot is the best way to run. Needless to say, he went to try a pair of Vibram Five Fingers.

This picture was taken from birthdayshoes.com

I said that if he is only starting to run, he should run barefoot from the beginning and build up his feet and stamina at the same time. At the very most, he should wear huaraches, like mine from Invisible Shoes, for the times that being barefoot could be hazardous.

Then, I came across a trail runner, Chaotic Mark, who did a video review of his Luna Sandals vs The Vibram Five Fingers.

It is a longish video but well worth watching - to see his running style, on trails no less, his take on the tread, the fact that the Vibram is still a shoe, his focus on correct natural running form

I obviously wear Invisible Shoe huraches and think they are great. I would recommend that you read up on the difference between Luna Sandals from Barefoot Ted (as featured in this video) and Invisible Shoes, and find a pair that suits your needs.

At the end of the day, whatever gets you running in a more natural style and form will lead to a more pleasant (and injury free) running experience.

To JM, go for a short run "in" your barefeet and notice the feeling of the ground beneath your feet - I'm sure you'll not want to ruin the experience with a pair of shoes ;-)