Vibram FiveFingers

When people first see Vibram FiveFingers they often refer to them as "toe shoes," because like toe socks, each toe has its own compartment -- but FiveFingers differ from regular shoes in many other ways as well.

With four models in their current lineup, the lightweight Vibram FiveFingers feature stretchable fabric uppers, antimicrobial footbeds, and soles made from Vibram TC-1 performance rubber; these features combine to make the FiveFingers experience more like going barefoot, while still protecting the soles of the feet.

• The streamlined "Classic" is the most basic version of the four, with no strap and no covering for the top of the foot.


• The FiveFingers "Sprint" is essentially the same as the "Classic," but it has a hook and loop strap that crosses the top of the foot, and another that crosses the back of the heel. These closures provide a personalized and more secure fit, and for the record, this is the version I own.


• Another model in the FiveFingers line-up is the "KSO," which covers the entire foot with inserts of breathable, stretchable mesh to help keep out sand, gravel and grit from entering the shoes. This model also comes with hook and loop closures for a more secure fit.


• And finally, there is the FiveFingers "Flow," which is also available with an IdroGrip performance rubber sole. The uppers are made from 1.2 mm Neoprene, which makes this style a better choice for some water activities and colder temperatures. This version also covers the entire foot.

Sized for men and women, the stretchable fabric used in FiveFingers should accommodate medium widths and wider widths (up to sizes EEE), and most styles are available in several color combinations. Prices range from $75 to $90 (U.S.).

For a list of activities each style is best-suited to, be sure to have a look at the FiveFingers Usage Chart.

It takes a little more time to pull these shoes on than you might think, but Vibram FiveFingers feel great -- at least they did for me. And I have to say, it was extremely odd to feel as if I was barefoot, without actually feeling the damp grass beneath my feet. I felt like I was a different kind of animal, and I actually didn't mind the way they looked. I even wore them with jeans to my local Starbucks.

But, since I spending most of my time sitting at my desk, shopping for shoes, and generally avoiding things that involve nature, my FiveFingers experience has been limited to 15 minutes skipping around my back yard, and several hours strolling the sidewalks of my neighborhood. Given my limited time in the FiveFingers "Sprint," I may not be the best person to review these shoes, so I'm inviting you to leave your own reviews of Vibram FiveFingers below.

For more information, be sure to visit the official Vibram FiveFingers site.