As a child, I spent most of my summers avoiding shoes like the plague, and still feel stifled if I'm forced to wear a sock. There is something so exhilarating to feeling the earth underneath you (until that is you have to walk in a public place or step on a bottle cap or a piece of glass). Enter a happy medium: The Vibram FiveFingers barefoot alternative.
Last week at Oktoberfest in Harvard Square, I noticed several people running around in these. I will admit, my first thought was that they were the weirdest looking footwear I had ever seen, but quickly I became intrigued.
Vibram advocates "barefooting" "barefooting (bare•foot•n) n. 1. The exhilarating joy of going barefoot without leaving yourself exposed; 2. any activity requiring unconventional footwear offering the protection of a thin, flexible Vibram skin; 3. an intelligent way to deepen your connection with your natural surroundings." on their website.
Vibram FIveFingers comes in a variety of styles that are perfect for all types of outdoor sports, running, and general foot happiness.
Follow Samantha Tackeff on Twitter: 
is it breathable enough?
I am wearing crocs still think it’s not very breathable.
I wish this design is made sole in rubber as photo and on top should be mesh netting…..
I would love to try anyway~!
I like the idea, but still think that bare feet are better, and more comfy.
I hardly ever wear shoes, even in sub-zero temperatures. I get weird looks, sure, and yes there have been times when I’ve had to remove a splinter of glass with a knife, but it’s all worth it to feel every stone and blade of grass.
I own a pair of these. I love them. My feet don’t get too hot and I get to enjoy the feel of being barefoot without ending up with nasty dirty feet – and I can wear them around town and not get kicked out for being barefoot.
If you enjoy not wearing shoes but want some extra protection give these a shot. They are particularly great for day hiking or wading through creeks/rivers/etc.
My eyes… Come on, these are hideous. You know it. Really!
If anybody interested, you can get them at best prioces in Europe in http://www.5fingers.es
I have a pair of these. They are very breathable and grip like crazy. It takes a day or two to build your foot up. Very little heat transfer even on blistering Alabama asphalt.
I have the KSO model.
How do you feel they compare to regular shoes?
Wow those are my feet up there! (The photo of the classic five fingers)
So did you ever pick up a pair? If not, maybe you should take a look at my beginner’s guide to vibram shoes. Or just let me know what you think over at birthdayshoes!
They are a random looking pair of shoes!! Not too sure myself : )
How odd. They look cold, maybe if i get these I will stop getting laughed at for my crocs!! haha
NO, these shoes are the coolest ever and I am getting some for Christmas.
How do you feel they compare to regular shoes?