VIBRAM FIVE FINGERS KSO

annr

annr

Basic Member
Joined
Nov 15, 2006
Messages
9,819
I learned of these recently and am wondering if anyone has any experience, feedback, comments regarding fit, sizing, comfort, application, durability, etc.

Also, what style did you try?
 
Not too long ago I ordered a pair (I don't remember the style just now) for aquatic use from a dealer on an auction site. The fit was odd, they were hard to put on and not very comfortable, so I returned them and got some Nike Aqua Sock 360's.
Also, I had to file a dispute against the dealer with PayPal who (the dealer) fought me on my legitimate return of the "shoes" and refund claim. I won.
 
There are a lot of fakes out there, so beware of "good" deals.
They wear out pretty quickly, especially between the toes, and more so if you don't care for your nails. I find they do fill with sand when standing in the surf. But overall I do like them. I have always had the middle range ones with the luggy sole, but mesh uppers. I think those were normally called the KSO, but maybe KSO sport?
They are very different to wear though, so if you rely on your shoes for any support at all, they will hurt you pretty quick. I've got it on good advice that they are a great method for celibacy, Most of the women I know can't stand the sight of them, so that may or may not be a factor for you, my wife detests them.
To be honest, I don't really know if they are worth it, I like them, but not for any rational reason. For almost any purpose there is a better shoe. My main use is if I'm rock fishing, but there plenty of good rock shoes that are easier to wear and cheaper.
I got my first pair at least 8 years ago. I'm on pair three, and they have been repaired once so far, glued part of the sole back on. I find very few shoes will survive long duration submersion though, either that or there is something in the water here.
 
Yeah, I thought they might be good for wading in the surf and shallow saltwater bays for finding clams with my feet. I'm pretty forgiving with minor to moderate shortcomings in a product, but these things flat out wouldn't work for me. They are worth a look for someone with a need for something like this.
 
Thanks everyone. I'm not looking for a fashion statement, luckily.:)
I ran across these as supposedly a good "shoe" for promoting foot strength and health. I'm rehabbing my feet and have very wide feet (men's EEE or wider?). I have a difficult time finding shoes that fit.
Some of the PT exercises seem to involve spreading the toes and strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles. I know that one of the pitchers for the Red Sox wears (or used to wear) socks with individual toes. So that got me thinking that maybe these would be something to try around the house as kind of a workout for the feet. (Could be a totally stupid idea.)
 
Not the dumbest idea, if you were looking for something that would let your toes stretch, its worth doing, I'd look into the injini socks as well, depending on your lifestyle you may be wearing shoes way more than you should. In your case I'd try to find a store to try some one (once you got the toe-socks). Another option is that there are toe-socks with grippers on the sole for added grip if you don't feel like risky-businessing your way around the house. Certainly a consideration for many people. I thing that bare-footing is a valuable thing, but overstated by many. I wouldn't do any barefoot running on any hard surface, but walking, and being able to stretch your toes and arches is certainly a good thing to do.
 
G gadgetgeek

Thanks for all the info. I did not know about the socks with grippers, and good thoughts on the progression from socks to “shoes.”

Ironically, we don’t wear shoes in the house, so my problems don’t stem from overwearing shoes—I’m thinking poorly fitting shoes (too narrow) are hindering my feet.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top