Vibram FiveFingers 2017 V-Trail Review

A road test felt overdue for the new Vibram FiveFinger 2017 range, so I thought I would take the weekend as an opportunity to take the V-Trails for a spin. I decided to take them up Roseberry Topping, given that it has a good mix of terrain; grass, mud, rock and gravel.

I went for the Orange V-Trails, which I must admit I didn’t think I would be too keen on, and do generally go for the black and black grey options in my Vibrams, however, in person, they do look pretty good. They have a new sole pattern compared to their predecessor (the Spyridon MRs) but still feature the MegaGrip compound, so I can only imagine improved grip compared to these. They use the quick lace system, and have a handy strap on the heel to help get them on.

I wore these with a pair of Injinji Trail socks, but I do think they would be great without socks too, as they are a little more padded than other FiveFingers.

So on with the testing. Even though these have a thicker sole than most Vibrams, the ground feel is fantastic. I usually wear my KSO EVOs, which have a really thin sole, so I am used to a lot of ground feel, and didn’t feel let down by these. The sole also features the Cacoon 3d membrane, which helps protect against uneven terrain, rock, stones etc. The path on the lead up to the base of Roseberry Topping is a gravelled path, so great to put this to the test. I could feel that I was standing on something, especially when there was the odd large or sharp one. However, there was nothing which caused pain. The membrane does a good job at spreading the impact, so doesn’t affect the way in which you walk.

Next up, I had the steps, mixed with mud and grass inclines. Obviously I went for the mud and grass to check out the V-Trail’s grip. It was wet on the ground, and I really did feel solid the whole way, no slippage. The MegaGrip sole still performs extremely well.

There wasn’t too much wet ground to test them on, so I moved on to the more rocky terrain on the run up to the top. I felt great the whole way. I have suffered in the past with a bad ankle, so I am always hesitant to go too crazy, but I felt solid the whole way up and down. The multi-directional lugs on the sole really came into their own, I could go from rocks, to grass to mud, and felt very comfortable doing so in the V-Trails.

Even though I was wearing Injinji socks, my feet were kept cool and dry the whole time. The V-Trail has an Anti-Microbial fabric liner, which helps with this, and they are as fast at drying as most other Vibrams. I did go through the odd puddle, but to be honest, you couldn’t really tell.

Definitely the biggest pro of the V-Trail is the traction. The Vibram MegaGrip sole is unbeatable in terms of grip, it feels like you are literally stuck to the rocks, or whatever you are walking on. Definitely gives more confidence when you are out and about.

All in all, I had a great run out in the V-Trail, and I imagine with us saying goodbye to the Summer for another year, I will be putting in a few more miles with these over the Autumn and Winter months. Plus, I got to take in some nice scenery along the way.

The V-Run from Vibram FiveFingers

Unveiling the (New?) V-Run from Vibram FiveFingers

The Bikila EVO 2 has now been rebranded as the V-RUN.

Although we haven’t had confirmation on exactly why Vibram FiveFingers have changed the name of their ever-popular road running shoe Bikila EVO 2 to a less-imaginative name, the V-RUN, it probably has something to do with this court case:

Last year (2015) the family of Ethiopian barefoot marathon champion Abebe Bikila filed a lawsuit against Vibram for allegedly using his name without permission (source: Associated Press).

Vibram have/had been using the Bikila name on their minimalist training shoes since 2010. First with the original Bikila shoe, then the Bikila LS, then again on the revamped version, the 2014 Bikila EVO. This year, the shoe ‘evolved’ again in to the Bikila EVO 2.

Abebe Bikila became famous when he won the 1960 Olympic Marathon without shoes, setting a World and Olympic record in a time of 2:15:16. Four years later, he set the world record again in 2:12:11. Although he died in 1973, he has always been hailed as a true sporting legend and an icon to all runners.

V RUN by vibram FiveFingers at Feetus.co.uk

As Vibram market their shoes as “barefoot shoes” that promote a more natural forefoot strike when running, it is easy to understand why the Bikila name is very apt.

Although the new V-RUN name is less imaginable, the shoe itself is still worthy of a gold medal.

See the full range here. Available for both men and women.

Kids Vibram FiveFingers from Feetus.co.uk

Vibram FiveFingers for Children

Research published in podiatry journal The Foot in 2007 suggests that structural and functional changes can result from the foot having to conform to the shape and constriction of a shoe, rather than being allowed to develop naturally. And the younger the foot, the greater the potential for damage.

Crucial: Well-Chosen Footwear for Children

The human foot at birth is not a miniature version of an adult foot. In fact, it contains no bones at all and consists of a mass of cartilage, which, over a period of years, ossifies to become the 28 bones that exist in the adult human foot. This process is not complete until the late teens, so it is crucial that footwear – when worn – is well chosen.

Research has shown that when children spend more time in bare feet, even in just two months, i results in increased foot strength, balance, mobility and ankle function. You child’s shoe should reflect this ‘barefoot feel’, with the shoe offering as much of the following:

  • A completely flexible sole,
  • A wide and deep toebox,
  • An anatomically correct last (the ‘mould’ that a shoe is built on),
  • A closure at the back and an adjustable closure at the top, such as laces or Velcro

By wearing Vibram FiveFingers, children get the health benefits of going barefoot whilst offering protection. Here are the Vibram FiveFingers styles available for children, most available between sizes 29 and 25:

KSO for Kids

We love the KSO for Kids. The ‘closed’ upper fabric keeps out any debris when the kids are out playing and the Velcro fastening makes it easy for kids to secure the shoe (without any farcical laces!). The KSO is the biggest-ever seller of Vibram FiveFingers and the most popular shoe for men, women, and children.

Speed for Kids

Breathable and more conventional-looking than some of the other Vibram FiveFingers styles, we love the Speed for Kids. This shoe promotes natural (barefoot) movement of your child’s feet and the sole provides good grip for all activities. Available in a lace-up.

Sprint for Kids

The Sprint allows your child’s feet to move as nature intended, the thing we like best about this shoe is the open top. Having an open top makes it so much easier for kids to get their dainty little feet in to the shoe and position their toes in to each pocket. They don’t even have to worry about tying the laces either, as the Sprint is a simple Velcro strap fastening.

All the children’s Vibram FiveFingers are available NOW at Feetus.co.uk. Some are available as ‘on order only’ but this only adds typically 2 days to your order time. We also sell matching toe socks from Injinji.

Kids Vibram FiveFingers from Feetus.co.uk
Kids Vibram FiveFingers from Feetus.co.uk

The Best Vibram FiveFingers for Winter 2015

Following on from our recent Best Winter Socks article and our Top 5 Tips on keeping feet warm in winter, here we look at the best winter shoes from Vibram FiveFingers. Please note, this is a new article. 2014’s top winter shoes can be found here

Admittedly, minimalist shoes aren’t always the best choice for colder months. Such footwear is low-profile: the soles are thin which means your feet are closer to the ground and receive less ‘protection’ from the cold underfoot.

Barefoot purists may tell you to grin and bare it, but winter is long, and we believe that with the correct footwear, you can enjoy the best of minimalist running whilst keeping your fitness up during the whole of winter.

An Overview of the best winter Vibram FiveFingers

In case you don’t want to read the whole article, we’ve made it easy for you to pick out the best shoe depending on what activity you’re likely to use the shoes for most:

Spyridon MR

Lightweight and low profile whilst offering adequate grip, the Spyridon MR is a favourite for those seeking speed and stability both on and off road. The ‘MR’ stands for Mud Runner, and these were designed with events like Tough Mudder in mind.

  • Best for: Mud obstacle events, winter racing (short-medium distance)
  • Worst for: Very wet weather, extreme cold

Click here to buy the Spyridon MR

Trek Ascent LR

The leather upper is naturally water-resistant, strong, and durable. Sure, leather also weighs a little more than synthetic materials but the compromise is well worth it due to the added warmth and toughness this shoe offers. The LR‘s MEGAGRIP sole is thicker than most other Vibram styles and therefore offers more resistance to cold coming up from the ground through the soles. Just the few extra milimetres really does make a massive difference. The MEGAGRIP sole is also Vibram FiveFingers’ hands-down best sole for off-road running, trekking and walking.

  • Best for: Water resistance, long distance outdoor use, all winter
  • Worst for: Short-distance racing

     

Click here to buy the Trek Ascent LR

Trek Ascent Insulated

THE BEST WINTER SHOE from Vibram FiveFingers in 2015: The Trek Ascent Insulated comes higher up the ankle so it keeps more than just your feet warm; your ankles are kept toasty too! Not only that, but the wool lining is outstandingly warm – a total godsend for winter!!

Please note: The insulated padding inside this shoe means it fits smaller / tigher than all other Vibram FiveFingers styles. We strongly recommend you opt for +1 size up than you normally would.

The MEGAGRIP sole on this insulated shoe also features Vibram’s patented ICETREK technology, offering incredible grip on ice, snow, and cold surfaces. The sole is thicker, offering protection from the cold ground, and also features aggressive grip for fantastic stability on and off-road.

  • Best for: All winter use (running, trekking, casual, all terrain)
  • Worst for: Very wet weather

     

Click here to buy the Trek Ascent Insulated

CVT WoolVibram-FiveFingers-CVT-Wool-Navy-Grey-Casual-Smart-15M501-Feetus.co.uk-Barefoot-01

You guessed it, this shoe is largely made from wool making it warm and comfortable. The CVT Wool features a higher ankle for added warmth and the overall look of the shoe is stylish and ideal for smart and casual use. This shoe is surprisingly light yet cozy and warm.

For added grip on ice, snow, and cold ground, the CVT Wool features ICETREK pods in the sole.

  • Best for: Casual and smart winter use
  • Worst for: Sport

Click here to buy the CVT Wool

Don’t Forget About Toe Socks

Add extra warmth to your precious feet by wearing toe socks under your Vibrams. Some of the thicker socks (such as Injinji’s NuWool OUTDOOR range) can add too much bulk. In most cases a ‘normal’ thickness sock is more than adequate. See our guide to the best toe socks for winter (which also includes tips on keeping your feet warm).

Massive Vibram FiveFingers Discounts

Vibram FiveFingers – Sale now on!

We’ve just received our Autumn/Winter delivery of Vibram FiveFingers and are celebrating the release of the brand-new Trek Ascent Insulated. But there is one problem… We’ve got so many Vibrams that we can’t fit them on our shelves!

So we’re having an impromptu sale with some MASSIVE savings to be had.

CLICK EACH PRODUCT NAME TO TAKE YOU TO THE PRODUCT.

Here’s the list:

Men’s Vibram FiveFingers Sale

KSO Evo (road, gym, leisure) SAVE 22%

Bikila Evo (road, gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 28%

EL-X (road, gym, cheapest!) SAVE 20%

Spyridon MR (trail, off-road, mud obstacle, walking) SAVE 24%

KMD Sport LS (gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 26%

Trek Ascent (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 23%

Trek Ascent LR (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 21%

KMD Evo (parkour, gym, walking, leisure) SAVE 28%

CVT Hemp (leisure, travel) SAVE 26%

 

Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Sale

KSO Evo (road, gym, leisure) SAVE 22%

Bikila Evo (road, gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 28%

Alitza Loop (fitness classes, gym, leisure, travel) SAVE 20%

Vi-B (fitness classes, gym, leisure, travel) SAVE 27%

Spyridon MR (trail, off-road, mud obstacle, walking) SAVE 24%

KMD Sport LS (gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 26%

Trek Ascent (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 23%

Trek Ascent LR (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 21%

 

Rock-Bottom Clearance Vibram FiveFingers

Once these are gone, they’re gone forever! 

Trek Sport Sandal (Men’s sizes remaining) SAVE 39%

Seeya LS / LS Night (Men’s and Women’s) SAVE 42%

CVT LS (Men’s and Women’s) SAVE 45%

Lontra (Women’s winter shoe, size 37. Last pair) SAVE 61%

 

Vibram Logo

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #2

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #2

For many, 2016 may not look like the most exciting year in the brand’s history. Celebrating their 10th Anniversary, Vibram have re-released the original Classic and the KSO (see our Sneak Peak #1 here) for a limited period, but haven’t gone guns-blazing on as many other ‘new’ releases as they have done in the past.

This, it can be argued, is largely down to the fact that they have ‘nailed’ it with many of their products. Looking at the current catalogue, the KSO Evo is impeccable, the EL-X serves as a fantastic entry-level shoe, the Trek Ascent is a worthy successor to the Trek Sport, and the ladies are spoilt with the Alitza Loop and the Vi-B.

Nevertheless, there are still some exciting new additions, as we document below. The biggest perk is that the pricing has changed… FOR THE BETTER!

At Feetus, we also think there are still some unexploited areas where Vibram could make a difference, and we’ll discuss that at the end of this article.

Without further ado, we present to you the new Vibram FiveFingers for 2016:Screenshot 2015-08-18 13.19.20

Bikila Evo 2: New for 2016

The original Bikila, named after the famous barefoot Olympic runner Adebe Bikila, was released in 2010. Designed mainly for road use, the Bikila was a huge success and was soon followed by the Bikila LS (the same shoe, but with a lace system). In 2014, the shoe ‘evolved’ in to the Bikila Evo to massive acclaim, and 2016 sees the release of the Bikila Evo 2.

Bikila Evo 2: Vibram Blurb

Redesigned with a softer upper and perforated to maximise breathability, the Bikila EVO 2 is now even more comfortable. This is an ideal running shoe for those making the transition from traditional to minimalist shoe. The thinner sole lets you feel your run, connecting you to the true barefoot running experience.

Bikila Evo 2: SpecificationBIKILA EVO 2

  • WEIGHT: M43= 4.80oz / W38= 3.74oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner //
  • MIDSOLE: 4mm EVA // RUBBER: 2.5mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester Lycra Stretch Mesh + Polyester Microfiber
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Bikila Evo 2: Feetus’ Verdict

If the success of its predecessors is anything to go by, the Bikila Evo 2 is destined to be a massive hit. With a gorgeous lineup of colours to choose from, the Bikila Evo 2 is going to be hard to resist.

Spyridon MR Elite: New for 2016

The growth in muddy obstacle events worldwide has opened up a niche in the shoe market. Many participants already use Vibram FiveFingers for their stability, glove-like fit, and ability to keep the shoes on their feet (while other competitors lose their shoes in the mud!).

In 2016, Vibram FiveFingers introduce the Spyridon MR Elite. Built on the same MEGAGRIP sole as the Spyridon MR, the Elite features unique touches making it the perfect choice for mud running:Vibram fiveFingers Spyridon MR Elite from Feetus.co.uk

  • Velcro cuff to keep mud out and add ankle protection
  • Instep brace to secure the foot (and prevent losing your shoe in the mud!)
  • Water resistant fabric helps repel water whilst keeping the shoe breathable

Spyridon MR Elite: Vibram Blurb

A purpose-built shoe designed specifically for diehard mud-runners, the Spyridon MR Elite is why Vibram was named the Official Footwear Sponsor of the 2015 Warrior Dash. The in-step brace provides a confident “lock” for stability even when the shoe is wet, while the high hook-and-loop cuff keeps mud out and protects the ankle. A totally washable shoe, the water-resistant finish makes the Spyridon MR Elite a relentless competitor in all conditions.

Spyridon MR Elite: Specification

  • WEIGHT: M43= 7.54oz W38= 5.49oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial DrilexBikila Evo 2 - Vibram FiveFingers at Feetus.co.uk
  • Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 5mm +
  • 3D Cocoon Mesh
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Injection PU Brace + Polyester with
  • Water Repellent Treatment
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Spyridon MR Elite: Feetus’ Verdict

Creating a shoe solely for the purpose of muddy obstacle events is a brave move from Vibram FiveFingers. Is there a ‘die-hard mud-running minimalist’ market that are willing to shed money on another pair of Vibrams just for their muddy races? Probably not, but on inspection, we felt that the Spyridon MR Elite is more than just a mud runner shoe. It is ideal for the British weather, especially during the wetter months. This shoe will keep you running when the weather turns bad!

Trek Ascent Insulated: New for late-2015

Trek Ascent Insulated
Trek Ascent Insulated

Due for release in Autumn/Winter 2015, we can’t wait for the Trek Ascent Insulated. On test, these are perhaps the most comfortable offering from Vibram FiveFingers to date! Designed to be used when the temperature is cooler, here we have a shoe that features full wool lining, Cordura water resistant outer fabric, an ankle cuff for extra warmth, plus Vibram’s patented ICETREK rubber compound sole (as seen on the Bikila Evo WP) for grip and control on outdoor surfaces.

Trek Ascent Insulated: Vibram Blurb

Ideal for those who don’t slow down as the weather gets cooler, the Trek Ascent Insulated keeps feet toasty while battling the elements. Engineered with an ICETREK outsole, this dynamo provides unparalleled grip and balance on icy cold surfaces

Trek Ascent Insulated: Specification

  • WEIGHT: M43= 7.80oz W38= 6.20oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 4mm Polyurethane + Wool Sockliner //
  • MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 4mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: WR Cordura™ + Polyester + Wool
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Trek Ascent Insulated: Feetus’ Verdict

The Trek Ascent Insulated looks like a moon boot prototype from before space travel was even possible! BUT… We love it. It could be a Marmite shoe: You’re either going to love the look, or hate it. We fall in to the latter category. The Trek Ascent Insulated has a lot of character; the sole is incredible, and the choice of materials for the upper and inner will ensure your feet will stay toasty.

Vi-S: New for 2016

Vi-S from Vibram Fivefingers - Available at Feetus.co.uk
Vibram’s new Vi-S

Open-top FiveFingers have always proved remarkably popular with ladies (maybe that’s why we’re seeing a re-release of the Classic too?). Offering a little elegance, simplicity and ease of getting on and off, the Vi-S is another step in the minimalist direction, and a nice alternative to the existing Vi-B and Alitza Loop styles.

Vi-S: Vibram Blurb

An elegant, form-fitting design, the Vi-S is one part graceful fashion sandal, one part hardworking KSO EVO. A flexible yet high-traction sole makes the demands of everyday life feel effortless. Delicate lace fabric adds a sensual touch that is deceivingly tough, like you. offered for women only

Vi-S: Specification

  • WEIGHT: W38= 3.17oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial Drilex
  • Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 3.5mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Your Thoughts

Later this week we’ll be previewing the rest of the styles that will be available from Vibram FiveFingers, but in the meantime, we’d love to get your thoughts on the new stuff!

So, after seeing the new styles on offer from Vibram FiveFingers, what do you think? Are you excited or underwhelmed? Which new style is your favourite, the Bikila Evo 2 or the Spyridon MR Elite; the Vi-S or the Trek Ascent Insulated? Leave a comment below. 

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #1: Nostalgia

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #1

Vibram FiveFingers are celebrating their 10th Birthday next year, and as 2016 will be here before we know it, we’re excited (already) about the new Vibrams. If you don’t like surprises, don’t read on!

Nostalgia

For a company that’s always been incredibly visionary and forward-focused, it may seem counter-intuitive to celebrate something as nostalgic as a 10-year anniversary. But 2016 is more than a milestone for Vibram FiveFingers. It’s validation. It is living proof that a great idea can and will change how people live and play, every single day.

And we’re proud to unveil two old favourites that are being re-released for a limited period only.

 

The Classic

Vibram FiveFingers Classic
An Instant Classic!

First released in the USA back in 2006, the Classic was originally called the “Vibram FiveFingers” shoe. The Classic was made famous by “Barefoot Ted” McDonald (now creator of Luna Sandals) as he ran the Boston Marathon with an impressive 3:20:16 time.

We get emails from customers all the time asking “Where’s the Classic? …it was my favourite shoe!”, so here at Feetus, we’re over the moon we can finally satisfy the die-hard Classic fans. We just need to be patient until March 2016.

What Vibram say about the Classic:

From day one, the FiveFingers Classic has drawn the attention of the press and active outdoor athletes alike. Our patented original takes a minimalist approach to barefooting with a thin, abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide fabric that sits low on the foot for comfort and quick drying.

Non-marking, razor-siped Vibram XS Trek performance rubber soles help protect your feet and provide a sure grip over a variety of terrain.

The KSO

In 2008 Vibram FiveFingers unveiled the ‘shoe’ that really changed everything and launched ‘barefoot running’ to new heights. For many of us, the KSO was our first pair of Vibrams. KSO stands for “Keep Stuff Out”. The shoe was so popular (and is still Vibram’s biggest-seller to date) that it still exists in its evolved form today: The KSO Evo.

Vibram FiveFingers KSO
“Keeping Stuff Out” for 2016

What Vibram say about the KSO:

When you’re scrambling up a rocky bluff or bounding along a riverbank, the last thing you want is gravel and grit seeping into your Vibram FiveFingers. The KSO is an all-new design with thin, abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide and breathable stretch mesh that wraps your entire forefoot to keep grit out. A single hook-and-loop closure helps secure the fit. Non-marking Vibram TC1 performance rubber sole ensure excellent grip, whatever your activity.

 

The Classic and the KSO are ‘10th Anniversary Re-Introduced Products’ with limited numbers being produced. Once they go, they will be gone. If you’d like to reserve a pair, please let us know.

Available in black only, for both men and women.

Your Thoughts

Of course – These aren’t the only ‘new’ released for 2016, and we’ll be releasing further details of the other SS16 Vibram Fivefingers later in the week, including another ‘evolution’ of a popular style, and a shoe that’s designed especially for muddy obstacle events! READ MORE ABOUT THIS HERE.

In the meantime, we’d love to hear what you think about the re-release of the Classic and the KSO. Leave a comment below!

How Do Women’s Injinji Socks Compare to Unisex Toe Socks?

Do you ever wonder if its just a gimmick when a sports company offers an alternative for women?

We do.

Earlier this year, Injinji released their Womens-Specific range of toe socks. They claim that these lightweight no show toe socks ‘better accommodate the female foot’ and offer ‘increased heel-to-toe stretch’. There is a two-way stretch through the mid-point of the arch to provide better compression through the female foot, and the toe pockets have been re-designed for a ‘better, snugger fit’. It all sounds great – but is it marketing-speak or can these socks cut the mustard? 

Earlier this month, we asked one of our super-customers to compare the new ladies-specific Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight No Show Women’s Toe Socks to the existing unisex toe socks. We like open, honest, and candid reviews (see this one from last month) and welcome criticism and feedback. We’re not all about sales, sales, sales; we care about our customers so its important to get an unbiased review from customers just like you… So without further ado, here’s Cath’s review.

A look at the Women's Specific Toe Socks form Injinji
A look at the Women’s Specific Toe Socks form Injinji

Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight No Show Women’s Toe Socks – A Review

I have to admit to being a bit sceptical when I was asked to review Injinji’s women’s socks to see how they compare to unisex toe socks. I wear both ToeToe and Injinji toe socks on a regular basis and have never noticed a major problem with wearing a sock which wasn’t specifically designed for girls. I run almost exclusively in Vibram FiveFingers, usually with a lightweight liner.

First Impressions

My first impression when I took the socks out of the packet was that I liked the funky pattern (not that anyone’s going to see it once I’ve got my shoes on!) but that the fabric felt quite thick, especially for a sock described as “lightweight” with “ultra-thin” cushioning.

 The Fit

Getting the sock on was easy – the toes and heel fit in the right place first time with no need for adjustment. This is where I sometimes have issues with unisex socks – the toes tend to be a bit long and I have to tug on them to get them to fit snugly. Oddly, the ribbed band which is meant to support the arch sat too high on my foot but this didn’t cause any discomfort or chafing. The thick feel of the fabric was noticeable between the toes but overall, the sock felt snug – it hugged my foot without being constrictive.

As soon as I donned my Fivefingers, I completely forgot the socks were there – just what I demand of a toe sock. I’m always a bit wary of socks described as “no show” in case they’re too short and don’t protect my ankle from the cuff of my shoe, but these socks are a perfect length – they do show over the top of both FiveFingers and “normal” shoes but this doesn’t bother me as I prefer the protection this provides.

Buy Women’s Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Blister Prevention 

While running, the socks stayed in place perfectly, felt comfortable and prevented the blisters I get if I run without socks.

On Test

The initial test run was a 4-miler on a cool Spring morning, and the socks kept my feet nice and warm, which makes me wonder how they will hold up to Summer conditions. However, when I got home I discovered just how good the “moisture management” properties are – the socks were damp on the outside but when I took them off, my feet were totally dry. In comparison, after a similar run, both my ToeToes and my feet feel damp.

Overall, I liked these socks. I was surprised to find that the women’s socks do fit better than the unisex version and was very impressed with the wicking properties. In Summer, I would probably continue to use my ToeToes – even though they don’t wick as well as the Injinjis; they’re much thinner and cooler so I would expect my feet to sweat less in them. However, this particular Injinji sock looks set to become a favourite in the cooler months and if there were a thinner version it could well become the only sock in my drawer.

So… by the sounds of it, the Injinji Women’s-Specific toe socks do exactly what we expect.

Way to go Injinji! Keep up the good work!

Buy Women’s Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Injinji, Gotena, and V-Toes

Comparing Toe Socks

Comparing Toe Socks

Here at Feetus.co.uk, we’re mad about toe socks. We’re the nation’s favourite toe sock specialist and we try to offer you the biggest and best range on the market. Commonly used with Vibram FiveFingers, toe socks are fantastic for all sports, and offer superior blister-protection compared with the conventional sock.

But are all toe socks equal? Are some brands better than others?

With such a vast array of different brands, styles, weights, heights, and colours, its easy to get confused. Unsurprisingly, we were overjoyed when one of our super-customers and fellow toe sock lover sent us this comprehensive overview of toe socks. He reviewed a range of toe socks from brands Gotena, V-Toes, and industry-leading Injinji. Here’s what he thinks:

Gotena Toe Socks – An Overview

Maybe I have freakishly long toes but I found the toe pockets on Gotena toe socks to be unbelievably short, therefore removing the freedom for each toe that I/we the consumer buy these socks for in the first place. The point where the toe pockets join is halfway up the gap in your real toes, the pockets actually act to keep your toes together, thus making them almost as bad, if not worse than, normal socks.

Yes the fabric feels nice next to the skin, seems well constructed and is very light – however, this comes with a downside in that there is no structure at all to the sock – now I know that the whole idea of “going minimal”/wearing less footwear etc. is less structure but getting these things on is like putting on Clingfilm socks – i.e. not easy to say the least – I actually find that my medium and “heavy” weight Injinji socks are way easier to get on because at least they have some “shape”.

As already stated, I may have really long toes (but I don’t think so, maybe just above average) but surely the whole idea of toe socks is to allow toe freedom and a few mm extra is not going to cause issues, especially in these modern elasticated socks – if you lengthened the toes in these by 10-15 mm they would still be fine for short toed folks (they just wouldn’t max out the stretch but that wouldn’t cause bunching). It’s something I think even Injinji are guilty of and they are the nearest I found yet to having long enough

I have to admit to being surprised at the narrowness of the toe pockets too as my toes are certainly on the skinnier side of average and these are tight – again, a habit of other toe sock makers I find hard to understand – maybe it’s the whole obsession with things fitting “snugly” and compression wear and all that nonsense but I’ve worn “normal” socks with no elastic and in a wide fit as an alternative to toe socks and never had any issues with the extra fabric, just that age old problem with shape and even being super wide, they still pulled the big toe in due to the taper of the toe box.

I don’t want to rant but come on some sock company out there, try this – make the toes a bit longer and wider and everything a bit less stretchy and not so thin that they have no shape at all – you might just be surprised at the results – socks don’t have to be this tight to keep them in place and then we’ll get the freedom our toes deserve.

Buy Gotena toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

V-Toes – An Overview

I’m afraid not much good to say here about V-Toes – they appear poorly made with loose loops at the end of each toe pocket, loose threads everywhere inside and again, toe pockets big enough for my 3 year olds toes, but these are for size 11 feet.

It is really hard to get on to each toe; I couldn’t possibly recommend them – I’m sure there are people who’ve found these OK but I think that’s more of a reflection of the poor standard of what’s available.

 Buy V-Toe toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Injinji – An Overview

And to finish, Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight and Injinji Outdoor MidWeight NuWool – by far the best of the bunch – both well made with the ‘Lightweights’ still having enough shape/hold to make them a breeze to put on (a breeze for toe socks that is!), being Lightweight (obviously) and almost long enough in the toes.

The Outdoor range of toe socks are probably my favourite of the lot, not being overly thick but with enough warmth for the depths of a UK/Irish winter (not going to say Scottish winter as that’s a different ball game altogether) which is very useful with most minimal footwear being low on insulated properties.

Buy Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk 

Toe Socks – A Summary

So to summarise it’s fairly clear – unless there’s a toe sock company out there making toe socks with longer toes and less restriction/too much elastic then Injinji are the clear winner for now.

It’s all very well saving a couple of quid [by purchasing the cheaper toe socks] but the Injinjis hold up well too.

To be fair to V-Toes and Gotena, I’ve not had them long enough to see if they last – but then I wouldn’t want them too as they are awful to wear. I’ve had a couple of pairs of the Injinji NuWool for a while now and they are going to take a long time to wear out.

Overall – If you’re looking for a reliable toe sock that not only fits well, but also offers supreme performance and longevity, the Injinji toe sock is what you need.

See the full range of toe socks at Feetus.co.uk

Injinji, Gotena, and V-Toes
Do you have a favourite toe sock? Let us know by leaving a comment
Kalclash reviews the KSO Evo for Feetus.co.uk

The KSO Evo – First Impressions from Steve Kalclash

Steve Kalclash from Kalclash Fitness reviews the KSO EVO

Steve is fanatical about Vibrams, and has been a Feetus Fan for a long time. His YouTube Channel is building up a very loyal following, covering various topics from triathlon, vegan living, and of his passion for Vibrams. We just love his no-nonsense, candid approach to reviews.

We couldn’t believe that after covering more than 2,000 miles in his collection of Bikilas, he hadn’t ever tried a pair of KSO EVO – so we intervened and this is what Steve thinks of his new KSO EVOs.

You can now watch his video review below.

 

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here

…and we think they’re fantastic too! So great, in fact, that we paid tribute to the KSO EVO in our recent blog post (after 950 miles of running in them!).

What do you think about the KSO Evo?

We’d love to hear what you think about the KSO Evo too! How close is it to barefoot running? Are these your favourite minimalist running shoes? What do you use them for mostly? Leave a comment and let us know…

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here