Do I need to size-up in Vibram FiveFingers to accommodate toe-socks?

If you wear Vibram FiveFingers, or are thinking about buying a pair of Vibrams, this can be a common issue. First of all, you need to decide whether you want to wear toe socks under your FiveFingers – and then – if you did use toe socks – would you need to get a bigger shoe size to accommodate the extra bulk from the sock?

Should I Wear Toe Socks Under My Vibram FiveFingers?

This all comes down to personal preference. At Feetus, we find that around 30% of our customers wear toe socks in the summer, but in winter, this percentage increases to around 90%. As you can expect, the colder months prompt barefooters to reach for socks to add an extra degree of warmth.

Personally, I wore Vibrams for years before I started to wear toe socks. My first pair of FiveFingers was the original KSO. I wanted to try toe socks, but was always put-off by the price (£10+ for one pair!). I eventually took the plunge and found that the quality just didn’t meet the price tag. This, HOWEVER, was back in 2011 – and Injinji have drastically improved the quality of their toe socks.

Now, I know that their range of toe socks are WORTH £10+, given their very high quality, longevity, and performance benefits. At Feetus, we like to offer discounts on toe socks too, so you can always pick up toe socks for less than £10, and we always have a toe sock ‘special offer’ for you to get extra value.

Nowadays, I very rarely wear Vibram FiveFingers WITHOUT socks.

Do I Need To Get A Bigger Size Vibram FiveFingers To Wear Toe Socks?

No.

There is a common misconception that in order to wear socks under your Vibrams, you need to get a larger shoe size. This is not the case.

Think about the conventional shoes you’ve been wearing over the years. How many times have you thought ‘I need to wear socks today – these shoes are going to be too small’? The answer is probably ‘Never’ – and the same applies to your Vibrams.

Toe socks come in a variety of different styles, with the common factor between each being the weight. Using the original performance toesock brand Injinji as an example, they offer Lightweight, Original Weight, Run MidWeight, Trail MidWeight, NuWool Original Weight, and the range is constantly growing and evolving.

Side Note – Please be aware that MidWeight socks (both in the RUN and TRAIL series’) may be a little too thick to wear in your Vibram FiveFingers. Injinji’s Yoga Socks are also not recommended for use in shoes. 

 

What Other Toe Sock Brands Are There?

Injinji are definitely the pioneers. They’re the original creator of the performance toesock, however, we’re proud to offer GOTENA and V-Toes.

GOTENA make fabulous-quality toe socks. Their Merino Wool sock is fantastic quality, and they have also filled the gap by offering their GHOST sock, which is very similar to the (now-unavailable-in-the-UK) Injinji PED.

V-Toes offer an all-black toe sock, similar to Injinji’s Original Weight Mini Crew.

 

Check out the full range of Toe Socks here

Alitza Loop

2015 Vibram FiveFingers. Sneak Preview No.2: Alitza Breathe & Alitza Loop

Since its release in 2013, the Alitza has been a popular choice with ladies. But in 2015, the Alitza is undergoing a radical makeover.

Introducing the Alitza Breathe and Alitza Loop

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

If you love indoor training, enjoy yoga, or are looking for a ‘barefoot’ shoe for everyday use, the Alitza is the perfect choice. Available for ladies only, the new-look Alitzas are very feminine and elegant. You’re going to love them!

The Sole: XS Trek

The XS Trek sole has been incredibly popular since its first release in 2013 on the men’s EL-X and the ladies’ Alitza, and has continued to be used on other styles in 2014 such as the ladies’ VI-B and the bestselling KSO Evo. Very versatile with unbeatable ground feel, the XS Trek sole is a masterstroke from Vibram FiveFingers.

XS Trek

Alitza Loop - Great for Yoga
Alitza Loop – Great for Yoga

 Alitza Breathe

The key difference with the Alitza Breathe is most obviously the extended warp around laces, which add extra security over and under your foot. The upper fabric is a polyester mesh which was first introduced in early 2014 on the women’s VI-B.

Alitza Breathe
The Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Breathe

“The elegant Alitza Breathe provides the perfect foundation for sports like barre, yoga and training sessions where a mind/body connection are key. Flexible FiveFingers construction offers extraordinary ground feel to fully engage the toes and foot while providing confident traction on and off the mat. Lacing allows for a custom fit.”

Available for women only

  • WEIGHT: 3.46oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 3.5mm Rubber
  • INSOLE: Anti-Microbial Drilex
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester Mesh + Recycle PET
  • VEGAN
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

 

Alitza Loop

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Available (potentially) in black, red, and magenta; the Alitza Loop has a stretch polyamide upper, providing flexibility and breathability. The ribbons that featured on the original Alitza have been replaced by a more durable stretch gore, which will undoubtedly provide a more secure fit.

Alitza Loop
The Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Loop

 

“The simple beauty of Alitza Loop offers the perfect solution for those seeking a barefoot experience with optimal traction. An ideal minimalist shoe for fitness classes, barre and studio sessions, the Alitza Loop is light, breathable and follows your every move. Easy on/off makes for an effortless transition from home, to studio, to running around town.”

Available for women only

  • WEIGHT: 2.99oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 3.5mm Rubber
  • INSOLE: Anti-Microbial Drilex + 2mm EVA
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Stretch Polyamide
  • VEGAN
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry
Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Breathe and Alitza Loop
Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Breathe and Alitza Loop

Catalogue cutting for the Alitza Breathe and Loop

 

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

The Feetus Verdict

The Alitza has been hugely popular and the main issue (in the UK) is that it has only ever been available in black, despite other colours such as purple, pink, and white being available in Asia and the US.

I believe the Alitza Loop is, despite not changing all that much, an improved design on the original Alitza. The switch from the ribbon across the foot to the stretch gore fabric will make it so much easier to get the shoes on. I think the Alitza Loop will be a BIG hit!

The Alitza Breathe is a strange beast. It is like a combination of the VI-B and the Alitza, with huge ribbons that fasten up the leg. Will this wrap-around lacing stay in place? We’ll have to wait until Spring 2015 to find out!

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Trek Ascent in action

2015 Vibram FiveFingers. Sneak Preview No.1: Trek Ascent

We were GUTTED when, earlier this year, we heard that the ultra-popular Trek Sport was being discontinued. …We needn’t have worried. Getting a glimpse of 2015’s offerings has put our minds at ease.

Introducing the Trek Ascent and Trek Ascent LR

Hold your horses. These aren’t due for release until Spring/Summer 2015.

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE

We were able to get our hands on these off-road/trail specific minimalist running shoes earlier this year and were very impressed. Not only does the Trek Ascent look incredible, the sole has had a complete makeover from the original ‘Trek’ sole and feels rugged, sturdy, and reliable; whilst still low profile enough to be considered ‘barefoot’.

Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect…

Exploring the outdoors in the Vibram FiveFingers Trek Ascent
Exploring the outdoors in the Vibram FiveFingers Trek Ascent

The New Trek Ascent Sole

Vibram FiveFingers have retired their Trek sole (as featured on the Trek SportLontra and Trek Sport Sandal, and have replaced it with a brand new compound called MEGAGRIP.

MegaGrip from Vibram FiveFingers
MegaGrip from Vibram FiveFingers

MEGAGRIP is said to offer excellent grip properties on both wet and dry terrains while maintaining a high level of durability, and has been developed for those who frequently encounter slippery surfaces.

The difference between the Trek Ascent and the Trek Ascent LR is the upper material; the Trek Ascent being made from synthetic materials polyester and Spandex (making it suitable for vegans), and the Ascent LR made from kangaroo leather and hemp.

Trek Ascent

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE

“For off-road adventures and hiking in all conditions, the new Trek Ascent Synthetic offers rugged traction and sure grip to keep you firmly grounded on and off trail. Choose the Synthetic fabrication for sporty, weather resistant performance.”

  • Available for both men and women
  • WEIGHT: M43 = 6.34oz W38=4.93oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 8mm (4mm Rubber /4mm EVA midsole)
  • INSOLE: 4mm Polyurethane + Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester +Spandax
  • VEGAN
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Available in black for both men and women, in grey/black/orange for men, and dark grey/lilac for women.

Trek Ascent LR 

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE

  • Available for both men and women
  • WEIGHT: M43 = 6.56oz W38=5.11oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 8mm (4mm rubber outsole/4mm EVA midsole)
  • INSOLE: 4mm Polyurethane + Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Kangaroo Leather + Hemp
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Men will have black and caramel/brown to choose from, whereas ladies have caramel/brown and pink/grey/orange.

Vibram FiveFingers describes the Trek Ascent LR ” is a rugged minimalist shoe designed for hiking tough terrain. A super grippy outsole and leather/hemp construction makes this the 4-wheel-drive version of our original barefoot model.”

The Vibram FiveFingers Trek Collection
The Vibram FiveFingers Trek Collection

The Feetus Verdict

As a trail runner, I am more excited about the Trek Ascent than I have ever been about any other pair of Vibrams in the past. I feel Vibram FiveFingers have really found the right balance between looks and performance with this minimalist shoe.

The sole, at 8mm thick, will provide enough protection to hit the trails and run with ease, whilst still  providing enough proprioception for the runner to experience ground feel. The sole pattern is also an improvement from the original Trek Sport. Although the tread depth feels slightly more shallow, the rubber feels sticky, durable and will provide a massive amount of traction for grip and stability in most weather conditions.

We’re really excited to get these in for Spring 2015. What do you think about the Trek Ascent?

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE

The Feetus.co.uk ‘Early December’ Sale

The Feetus Sale.

Christmas is round the corner, and if you’re reading this you’re probably looking for some new ‘barefoot’ or minimalist running shoes or accessories, either for yourself, or for somebody else. And we’ve been working hard to give you the best deals we possibly can.

This isn’t a ‘Black Friday’ or ‘Cyber Monday’ sale. We don’t like those corny, bullshit, American labels. Quite simply, this is The Feetus Sale. It is our first ‘proper’ sale, and we hope you like it.

The sale won’t last for ever. It might not even last ’til the end of the week, so you had better be quick! Enjoy! 

Things You Might Like to Know

When does the Sale start and finish?

The sale starts Monday 2 December, 2013. The sale won’t last long, but it will definitely run for a full 24-hours.

What offers are there?

Why should I buy from Feetus.co.uk?

  • Our customers love us. Check out our 5-star reviews on FreeIndex.
  • Free Delivery on orders over £50
  • Free Feetus.co.uk ‘Fappa’ (aka neck tube, snood, etc) on orders over £50.
    • IMPORTANT POINT: Due to the overwhelming number of orders we have had over the last three weeks, we have become desperately short of Fappas – and we will probably sell out this week – BUT – we have thousands more arriving within the next 7-14 days. We will still honour the free Fappa and send this out to you at a later date. 
  • We’re a small (but growing!), independent online retailer.
  • 100% secure. We accept payments using SagePay, PayPal, and Amazon Payment.

The product I want is: a) out of stock, b) not in my size, c) sold out

Don’t worry. We’ll do our very best to get it back for you in time for Christmas. Just ‘Contact us’ by email.

When will I receive my order?

All our advertised products are in stock. If you place your order before 1400 GMT, it will be despatched the same day.

Lead times vary depending on your chosen delivery method. If you need your order quick, we suggest you select Guaranteed Next Day Delivery. .

Anything Else?

Please get in touch

 

 

Half Price Injinji Toe Socks When You Buy Vibram FiveFingers

Feetus.co.uk: EXCLUSIVE Injinji Offer

We’re giving all of our customers the opportunity to get TWO PAIRS of Injinji toe socks HALF PRICE when they buy a pair of Vibram FiveFingers from us.

Injinji are the world’s best-known manufacturer of toe socks. Used by professional athletes worldwide, Injinji toe socks are the perfect companion for your Vibram FiveFingers (especially in the winter!!!)

A twin pack of Injinji PED Sport socks is RRP £19.98 (£9.99 per pair), but if you add a twin pack to your basket, you will pay just £9.99 for two pairs of toe socks. Choose from black or grey.

STRICTLY one twin pack (at £9.99) per customer. Additional packs will be charged at £16.99.

 

Meanwhile… Other Injinji Bargains.

We’ve got some ‘last-season’ Injinji socks starting from as little as £4.99, and you pay just 99p for UK delivery on these.

And we’ve also got a very attractive range of new-for-2013 Injinji socks to match your favourite Vibram FiveFingers.

 

 

What Are You Waiting For?

Browse our Vibram FiveFingers now

Check our our range of Injinji toe socks

Vibram FiveFingers 2014 Sneak Peak #3: The Spyridon MR

Introducing the New-for-2014 Spyridon MR

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Back in September, Feetus.co.uk gave you an exclusive look at two other ‘Sneak Peaks’ of what you should expect to see from Vibram FiveFingers in 2014:

The shock retirement of the favourite KSO, which is being replaced by the KSO EVO, and, the introduction of the Bikila EVO; a cushioned update of the Bikila LS.

Now we bring you a look at the new Spyridon MR.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

A History of the Spyridon

The Spyridon was first released by Vibram FiveFingers back in early 2012, first as a lace-only (LS) style, before releasing the Spyridon (Velcro option) later in 2012. Designed with trail runners in mind, the Spyridon found itself as the go-to ‘barefoot’ shoe for participants in mud races and obstacle events such as Tough Mudder.

Click here to buy Men’s and Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon from Feetus.co.uk

The Spyridon MR

It is therefore no surprise to learn that the ‘MR’ stands for ‘Mud Runner’.

Here’s the official blurb from Vibram FiveFingers:

Designed for the minimalist trail runner, the re-styled Spyridon MR, short for Mud Runner, offers a Vibram 3D Cocoon technology molded into the sole for lightweight protection. Speed laces and canvas fabric finish this sole off for a rugged and secure fit, while a 360 degree lug pattern offers grip in all directions, perfect for your next mud obstacle course or trail race.

First Look: The Spyridon MR (Grey / Orange)
First Look: The Spyridon MR (Grey / Orange)

So, What’s New?

Good question. And the answer is ‘not much’.

The Spyridon MR is being released (initially, at least) as a lace-only style and will feature Vibrams fantastic Speed lace system. The Velcro Spyridon is being completely retired.

The Sole/Tread

There are no changes to the sole. The Spyridon MR has the same brilliant Vibram XS Trek Compound sole as the original Spyridon, with the ‘rock block’ nylon mesh. This is just a maximum sole thickness of just 4mm. Very minimalist. The rubber sole has a multi-directional quadrilateral pattern, thus providing a good degree of grip and range of motion.

The Upper

The upper fabric is arguably the only difference. Whereas the Spyridon LS was made from  Coconut Active Carbon, the new Spyridon MR is constructed from a polyester fabric. The new look is arguably more ‘socially acceptable’. By this, I mean the design has been toned-down and is less garish.

Closure / Fastening

As stated above, the Spyridon MR is (for the time being at least) going to be available as a lace-only style. The speed lacing system is a fantastic and very convenient way of lacing up in a flash. The short laces are made from memory wire, which helps them to remain in place as you fastened them. They then hold in place by securing the lace with a plastic toggle, and secured further with a small Velcro patch. Very neat indeed.

In the US, Vibram-wearers prefer to wear laces over Velcro by a ratio of 3:1. In the UK, we are the opposite, preferring Velcro over LS by the same ratio.

Foodbed

The MR has a polyurethane stitch-in footbed. Like the original Spyridon, this is not removable.

The Essentials:

Weight: M43 = 7.83 oz (222g) / W38 = 5.64 oz (188g)

Max Sole Thickness: 4mm

Colour Preview (From L to R): Women's Blue/Black, Men's Grey/Orange, Men/Women's: Black/Grey
Colour Preview (From L to R): Women’s Blue/Black, Men’s Grey/Orange, Men/Women’s: Black/Grey

Compound: XS Trek + 3D Cocoon Technology

Insole: 3mm Polyurethane + Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner

Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Colours Available:

Men’s:

Military Green / Black (14M4201) – Not available in UK

Black / Grey (14M4202)

Grey / Orange (14M4203)

Women’s:

Black / Grey (14W4202)

Blue / Black (14W4204)

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Final Words

While the release of the Spyridon MR is not as exciting as the release of the KSO Evo, the Bikila EVO and the all-new Vyrid, it is still an important development. It shows Vibram FiveFingers have recognised the massive growth in popularity of obstacle mud races over the last couple of years, and are looking to capitalise on this by providing a shoe that not only copes well in the wet and muddy conditions, but also stays on your foot! (If you’ve never been to a mud obstacle event, you always see people leaving with just one shoe, as the other got lost in the mud!)

It is a shame to see the Velcro option removed, but the worst decision for me is that the UK won’t be getting the military green ‘khaki’ colour. Nevertheless, I am confident the Spyridon ‘Mud Runner’ will prove to be a big hit in 2014.

Bring on the mud.

Click here to buy Men’s and Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon from Feetus.co.uk

 

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

 

Click here to see the other 2014 releases from Vibram FiveFingers 

About The Author

Barefoot runner, cycling fanatic, outdoor-lover, Lee Firman is the man behind Feetus.co.uk. Click here to read more.

 

CQOTW4: Which Vibrams for Gym Use, CrossFit, and Running?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post every-so-often to our favourite customer questions, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our latest CQOTW:

Which Vibram FiveFingers are best for CrossFit, in the Gym, and for Running?

From: Elliot

I am looking at purchasing some five finger shoes for going to the gym, Cross Fit and a little bit of running. There are a lot of styles to choose from. I’ve narrowed the choices down to two and was wondering if you could explain the differences between them to me. The Bikila and the Komodo Sport. Unless you have another suggestion for what shoe I should have. Many thanks.

Here’s Our Answer

First of all, you’ve done a great job of narrowing it down to the Bikila and the Komodo Sport. Both are excellent gym shoes, and are the best on offer from Vibram for your intended use. I’ll go in to a little more detail:

Komodo (KMD) Sport

  • The Komodo Sport (aka the KMD Sport) was first introduced by Vibram last year, and was designed with CrossFit in mind. The upper fabric is reinforced in areas that may get a little more worn if you’re doing certain CrossFit exercises (for example, climbing ropes).
  • The sole has a multi-directional tread with a rounded pattern, making it great for functional movement exercises. You will not find another shoe that is as good at manoeuvring on the spot.
The Komodo (KMD) Sport Sole: Notice that rounded sole on the forefoot
The Komodo (KMD) Sport Sole: Notice that rounded sole on the forefoot
  • The sole is a little thicker than the Bikila, as it comes with a 2mm Polyurethane footbed.
  • The downside of the Komodo Sport is that it is not a full-0n running shoe. It will serve you well on the treadmill, or for short bursts on the track or on tarmac – but the tread isn’t designed for an all-out runner.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport. Available in both lace (LS) and Velcro options

Bikila

  • The Bikila has been around now for about four years. A very popular shoe, the Bikila strikes a perfect balance between a gym shoe and a running shoe.
  • Very light, very minimal, and really versatile.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers Bikila. Available in both lace (LS) and Velcro options.

Laces vs Velcro

If you find you have a wider-than-normal foot, opt for the LS. If you find your feet are narrow, then Velcro will be your best option. If you’re pretty average, with normal width feet, the world is your oyster. Pick either; they’ll fit fine.

Another Option: The EL-X

  • The new-for-2013 EL-X stands for Entry Level Cross Trainer, and that’s exactly what it is.
  • There’s barely anything to this shoe. No fastening mechanism, just a 3.5mm sole, and it is Vibram FiveFinger’s lightest ever men’s style. It will give you the best ‘barefoot feet’ out of any other shoe.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers EL-X at Feetus.co.uk. Available in black and grey/orange.

Rounding Off

I hope that gives you the information you need to make a decision.
My advice would be to ask yourself ‘How much running do I plan on doing?’, and if you answer is ‘Quite a lot’, I’d opt for the Bikila. If you think you’re going to live in the gym (or ‘The Box’) and the majority of your training will consist of WODs, gym work, and the occasional run, go for the Komodo Sport. Or if you’re on a budget, the El-X will provide a very nice introduction in to the world of Vibram fiveFingers.

How Should My Vibram FiveFingers Fit?

Whether you plan to wear your Vibram Five Fingers for running, for hitting the gym or CrossFit training, for yoga or even just for everyday casual wear – getting the right size is paramount.

The Space: No More Half-Inch Wiggle

You will probably find that in your ‘conventional’ shoes, and by conventional I mean your smart work shoes, your daily casual footwear, or your standard Asics-type running shoe, you allow a bit of room. Typically known as a half-inch wiggle at the toes.

When wearing your FiveFingers, your feet should be able to flex naturally, with each toe being able to extend fully. It is completely fine for your toes to graze the end of the toe pockets.

If you find that when you wiggle your toes and they slip out of the toe pockets, you need to go down a size. Alternatively, if your toes are scrunched up when you extend them, you need to opt for a size larger.

Further, if your toes are already grazing the end of the shoes when you wear them in bare feet, yet you plan to wear Injinji toe socks under them – it is recommended that you go for a size bigger.

Ultimately, your pair should allow you to perform activities freely, comfortably and naturally – as though you were wearing no shoes at all! 

 

Getting the right fit is essential
Getting the right fit is essential

True, you may find that some toes seem set back further than others. For example, I often find that my first two toes (the big toe and his neighbour) graze the end of my Vibrams, but the little toe has almost a full centimetre of room. This is completely fine. My toes can be fully extended, yet some toes graze the end while others have more room – but none of the toes are squashed nor do they fall out of the toe pockets.

So, to round it off, use these three points as a checklist to ensure your FiveFingers fit OK:

  1. My toes can extend fully
  2. My toes ARE NOT scrunched up inside the toe pockets
  3. My toes DO NOT fall out of the toe pockets when I wiggle them

 

See the full range of Vibram FiveFingers at Feetus.co.uk

See our range of Injinji toe socks