I've had my vibrams for about a week now and my husband laughs at how funky they look and how I where them everywhere anyway (got the pink and red cuz they were discounted!). I LOVE THEM! Never worn anything more comfortable! Just trying now to pace myself now to start running in them and transitioning out of my old clunky running shoes 😁
That's awesome to hear 😁😁😁 yeah they are so comfortable, you never know you're missing until you try them. Take the run transition slow and you'll never look back 😊
Hi Jene - thank you for posting. I have been considering Vibrams, but am not sure if I should buy women’s or men’s or even which model. I wear a 9 in women’s, but have turned to men’s 8s because my wide foot is more comfortable in them. I am buying for walking and running on pavement. Any guidance would be most appreciated. Thanks. :)
luck aerts Hey there! Thank you for responding. I got my first KSO EVOs, but they were too small. I have bigger KSOs coming, as well as V ALPHAs! I will share my experience here once I get a proper fit. 😊
I started running back in 2016. I started looking for youtube videos and found your channel. I would like to thank you for all your uploads and your advice. From 5kms, to relay triathlons, to full triathlons, to 10km and now to 21km half marathon now in 2019....Channels like yours helped me along the way. Big shout out to you Steve in your shed from a Brit in Mexico.
I ordered the Vibram FiveFingers and Merrell Vapor Glove 4 last week from Amazon Prime Wardrobe for a 7-day trial. The Merrell VG4s were delayed so I've been wearing the VFFs around the house exclusively for five days. The VG4s arrived today. I honestly wanted the VFFs to be the ones I preferred with them being 20g lighter (each shoe) and quirky :-) but after the ease of slipping on the VG4s and finding that my toes splay more easily than in the VFFs, I'm opting for the Merrells. Appreciate your review and comparison, Kalclash, keep up the great work!
I have used Vibrams for about 12 years now. It's all I run in. They are by FAR the best shoes for technical running. I use the V-Trail 2.0 exclusively now.
I would die to understund the funky colors merrell are using? I know running people doesnt care much about fashion and the ones that do, have a very bad taste but serisouly make all models in pure 100% black as a base and take it from there! I cant get the vibrams cuz I dont want to have to buy special socks and merrell well a big nooo! I am getting the VIVO barefoot in black. I also dont understund why nike and adidas who used to make these shoes 3 years ago doesnt anymore!
Doesn't it sort of undercut their current marketing scheme? The "technology" that's currently being advertised in the shoe models are exactly what scares away people that prefer minimalist. However, it seems they chose the side that has far more market potential and avoided the controversy.
Hi, I'm actually debating between these 2 shoes now. I've never owned a pair of V-Runs or Vapor Gloves. I do love running in the V-Alphas I have now, and was looking for a shoe I could kind of slip on without worrying about my toes. That being said, I've *never* tried the V-Runs and am very curious if you would recommend those over the Vapor Gloves seeing I've never tried them. I unfortunately I'm only able to order 1 :(
I bought the vapor glove 4 Merrell shoes: don't buy them! I don't recommend them at all. It's bad quality. After wearing them only 5 months there is already a hole in the sole. And it costs 100€... scandalous
The merrell vapor gloves are fantastic for any running on the track they give a great snapback and are faster on road than VFF's however the big flaw with them is the upper starts to fall apart, I've heard of others with this issue
Denis Keane 💪🏻💪🏻 agreed about the snapping back. I haven't done enough miles in them yet to notice much wear - probably because I'm running in two pairs. I'll keep an eye out for it. I find in general minimal running shoes wear faster than normal coffin running shoes
@George get barefoot shoes straight away, either Vivo or 5 fingers or these merrels. What you can't do straight away is start running and try to log miles. There's only one guide and that's your body's feedback. Try to walk and move in them a lot, squats, some ankle mobility drills, lunges.. If that's ok try long walks, if ok try short runs skip rope. etc... as soon as you have any signs of pain stop!! And do what's fun. Nobody can tell you exactly what to do because nobody knows all the variables, like your joint mobility, strength and elasticity of your calves, past injuries, mislignments, age, weight plus endless individual variables. ... Just get familiar with moving in barefoot shoes and do what's fun what feels good... This is polar opposite approach to most of other training advices that emphasize hard work, pushing against pain etc.. what helps against bunions is correct toes product. Either way, you want to get rid of them because 26 is too young and may affect your ability to move and enjoy life too early
That's interesting that you mentioned the Achilles issue with the Merrell. I get a slight niggle there on my left foot. Its not really a big enough issue for me to stop using them but I do get that. I've been running in them for over two years now and do 50+ mile weeks and really enjoy the minimal running feel. The only time I wear my Altra Loan Leak (also 0 drop) is for runs longer than 15 miles as where I run is kind of brutal hard rock and stone trails and forest roads. I tried Vibam's but the shape of my foot didn't work at the toe end of that shoe, and believe me I tried to make it work as I really wanted that one. One negative with the Merrell is that even though the toe box is wide enough to allow my already splayed out toes to move correctly the section from the ball of the foot to the mid shoe is way too narrow and after a few hundred miles use they get a hole on the side. Over all though, if you do it really carefully the transition from a running shoe (foot crutch i like to call them) to barefoot/minimalist then your not going to want to go back the way! I believe that if a lot of runners with foot issues took time to transition to barefoot running even if they also still ran and raced in traditional stacked shoes then it will pay dividends to them in the long term, same goes for people that don't yet have issues. The 28 bones and related muscles, tendons and ligaments in your feet need just as much strength training as your legs and back, if not even more, and wearing supported shoes all the time just doesn't allow that conditioning to happen! This is always a contentious subject. I fully expect flack for stating my views on the subject :)
With all the variation in toe length I dont understand how it's possible to fit in the shoes unless you 100% have the same length/ layout of toes. For example egyptian foot versus greek foot.
I recommend the Merrell glove 4 and mix master 2, have used them both and are great minimalist shoes. Interesting to hear you had Achilles issues wearing the gloves, I also have had Achilles flare ups with the glove 4.
I have both. Trail Glove 3 and Vapor Glove 4. The trail glove works great on hard surface. The Vapor Glove short not be used on a rocky trail as it got zero protection.
I started with Fivefingers but my little toes are very low on my foot. When I switched to my Vapor Glove I was very happy. I had been running barefoot for a while in between but cut myself on a piece of glass and stopped doing that. Minimalist shoes are the only way I can run without hurting myself. Nice video, btw. First I've seen of yours. Good job.
Hey Steve -- love the comparison. I think anyone looking at the vapor gloves simply because they look like normal shoes should really consider trying the Vibrams first. The vapor gloves I have started falling apart after a month, plus they were infinitely less fun to run and walk in than my Vibrams. Any chance of a Vibram V-alpha review in the future? :)
Ok, so I finally have a pair of Vibrams that fit and thought I would add my thoughts. I found sizing to be a pain in the a**, so I hope this helps someone. I wear a women’s 9 or a men’s 8. Men’s are better for me because I have a wide foot. My first pairs were men’s KSO EVOs size 38 and 39. Both were way too small. The new batch arrived today. I decided to try the KSOs in 40 and 41 and due to Vibram’s CSR Madeline’s suggestion, ordered V ALPHAS in the same sizes, as well (all men’s). The ALPHAs have more tread and some holes to drain moisture. She felt the extra support might benefit me, as I am new to minimalist shoes. I tried the 41 ALPHAs first, but was quickly disappointed. They were too stiff and the stitching detail was scratchy against my skin. It was an immediate ‘these shoes are not going to work’ type feeling... So, on to the 41 KSOs. DING, DING, DING! We have a winner! Finally!!! This is after weeks of research, ordering and exchanges (Hello Vibram people... we need some stores in New Jersey, please!) 😬. The KSOs are so much softer and more flexible than the ALPHAs!!! Still, these shoes are going to take some getting used to... I do not have long, well separated toes... and my pinky toe really cuddles up to my ‘ring’ toe (they’re so cute together! lol) So, I can really feel the divisions between my toes. I haven’t done more than walk in the house, which means the jury is still out on how they will feel when I get moving. As I’m sitting here with them on, I find myself wishing I had socks to soften up the toe divisions (but these 41s would be too tight with socks 😩) Has anyone had blisters from these? I see potential for that to happen, for sure. Maybe these won’t work, after all. 🤬🤯😢
safeinmyheart1 You can spell-out “ass.” The Pope is on vacation so you should be alright. For me I’m able to minus a half size or so from my running shoes. So in On Cloud I take a 43 but in vibrams I’m 42.
@@rosscanning1277 Hi Ross. I wish I could help you, but I don't remember. I gave up the vibrams because they were hurting my feet. I walk on pavement and minimalist shoes are a mistake for that. I do wear toe socks with my Adidas sneakers. They help prevent blisters between my toes!
hello :) I'm a total newbie when it's about barefoot shoes but I'm planning to pick up my first pair exclusively for hiking (on not too technical terrain, max 20 km or so). I cannot really decide between Vibram V-Trek and Merrell Vapor Glove 4. What is your opinion, which one can be a good choice for the first pair of barefoot shoes for easy hiking in the mountains? Thanks for helping me! Agnes
I live in South America and want to try Vibram but there are no stores, but I can order online. Size reference, I'm a 9 in Nike free flynet. What are the differences between the different Vibram models? Should I just get any available or look for something in particular? Thanks!
So why do you need these shoes? Why not just run barefoot? I ran barefoot on trails last year for the first time at night and it was ok. I just want barefoot shoes for normal errands and stuff. I'm curious.
This is a very helpful review. Just discovered your channel. I've transitioned to barefoot several months ago. Love it! Knee and toe pain finally gone after years of it. I"m almost 50, my only complaint is my lower back is hurting now for the first time in my life. I know the switch to barefoot triggered it, was hoping it was temporary but it still hurts. Any advice? I run barefoot on our indoor gym track, outdoors I wear the Merrill Vaporglove. Wanting to try Vibrams.
You could try doing some targeted stretching or yoga as R K mentioned. I would also focus on improving your running form if you haven't already as this could be one of the causes. This channel has a tutorial on transitioning exercises for barefoot running along with some other content that might be useful.
Hello, I am a sprinter running in the 10' that had flat fleet and bunion surgery. I try at best to transition to barefoot running and barefoot shoes. I use the primus lite III as casual shoes + correct toes spreader and recently ordered the Vibram 5 finger V run to experience the toe seperation. What would you suggest for sprinting on track ? Are the V run a good option when you speak about impact absorption ? regards
Ok awesome. I got worried after I bought them because I realized many of the reviewers on Amazon were not actually using them for running. Glad to hear that, thanks for the review and response!
awesome review. Just wish we could still buy the VFF Bikila. I love the two pairs i am still nursing through their final days. Nothing in the current VFF lineup comes close to the degree of fit (for my hobbit like feet) :(
I bought V-Run and was running few months, but I have let's call it siamese finger, so the gap between second and third fingers is smaller than normally and after running I felt pain, so I'm selling my five fingers and will try Vapor now.
Got any tips for heavyweight runners? I just transitioned to the trail glove 5 and they really work my calves but give me more stamina however I cant get rid of tired legs!
I bought 2 Vibram FF 25$ sample boxes online from Vibram’s site (v-run & v-trail). I couldn’t believe my eyes and only in my size. They arrived and look good as new. That was approx. 200$ off!!
Great video Steve, in a vivo barefoot I’m a uk 9 in v-runs I’m a uk 7 what advice can you give regarding size for the merrell glove 3. Kind Regards Scott
I have both, Fivefingers are my favorite, but as you say vapor gloves are a close second. The reason I wear vapor gloves is because I don't appreciate getting wet feet on damp or wet ground, you get a lot of water ingress around the toes. Probably not so much an issue with road running, but definitely a problem when cross country running.
Can't find a suitable five-fingers (shops a quite low on store). I'll continue with merrell then, but eventually i'll get the five fingers. Thanks for the review
I love my five fingers too. What do you run in in the winter? (im.over here in Ireland) I'm thinking about the winter- i dont think ill wear the five fingers then, but cant really bare the idea of anything else. (Ive had vivos and groundies) Thank you for the great video 🤗
Can the Vaporglove handle a mix of road and trail? I'm very near to having a hole in the sole of my Bikilas, so want to replace them - wondering if I should stick with the trusty Fivefingers, or give Merrells a go?
I run on a variety of surfaces :) I did order a pair of VaporGlove 3's, which were a bargain compared to my Bikilas, but unfortunately I found them weirdly uncomfortable, so they are going back. Long live Bikila Evos!
Nope! :D Think I might try the Trek Ascent next though, before they are all gone! Any idea which model replaces them? So confused by v-this, v-that LOL
I've been trying to get into it and do alot of barefoot walking around the house to build up my muscles but I wonder how easy it is to change back and forth between shoes?I work in construction environments and right now I'm on vacation but work shoes and steel toes are must for my job and idk if I'll hurt myself
Before watching your video, I took my first Vibram FF out for a 6km though the woods...damn, I wish I had seen your video first! No guarantee I would have heeded your warning but, you are so right on, especially about the stairs. My GF is taking her Merrell V3's out for the first time today...just showed her your video and seriously hope she backs off her distance and intensity a bit. Thank you for posting and I'll definitely be back for more tips.
I was unable to run more than 100 yards for almost a year because of extreme knee/hip/back pain. I heard about barefoot running and I now have a pair of the merrell vapor gloves and they are AMAZING!!!! I can now run without pain again and I love it! but I can't run more than a mile without calf pain and I can't run more than two miles without ankle pain! what should I do?
My transition looks lots of time and strengthening of the lower leg and foot. Proper form work, soleus strengthening, and increase in cadence before upping speed or distance. I'm not sure about ankle, but I'll choose muscle soreness over joint pain all day!
Start with walking barefoot. Take your time. The skin on the bottom of your feet will tell you how far and how long to go. Once you’ve built up to about a mile or two, try a short jog; 100 yards/ meters. See how you feel the next day and continue. Your body will tell you what to do.
Have you tried any of the Vivo (none athletic shoes, more day wear) shoes? I've just ordered a pair of Feiyue kung fu shoes... super cheap and minimal for casual wear ^_^
I haven't tried the casual vivos but they're on my list!! I've got a pair of Etnies (probably spelt wrong) and they're zero drop and a decent casual shoe 😊
Kalclash Fitness V I've mostly used them as a regular shoes at work and so. Big holes, they're more like sandals now! Looks terrible but are comfy so I use them anyway! Haha 😀
Same problem with the vapor glove 3. I wore a hole through the pinky toe side of the toe box after a month or maybe 2 of wearing casually. VFFs are the only shoe for me!
I assume you are in the USA, everything seems cheeper there and more accessible, sigh.. there isn't even a store that sells Vibram within a 100 miles of me.
@Chad yeah but with international shipping and exchange rate it never ends out economicaly, not to mention a lot of the time the item won't ship internationally ;(
Ignore him, Kalclash. He's just messing with you, and probably gots some dysmorphia neurosis him/herself. You've actually reverted back to your recent pre-injury days, so congrats on that. Looking sharp.
Thanks mate. Some interesting points raised and I'm definitely thinking it's time to move back to Vibrams. I had them years ago for hiking but have since taken up trail running so I'd like to see them perform under those conditions. I know what you mean about your feet gripping. The increased dexterity of the foot is beyond belief unless you've work them. Thanks again.
I tried on a pair of 5 fingers (v-run), must admit that they felt very comfy and I'm sure I'd run well in them...only downside is that even with dry feet, it took me about 10 mins to get them on; kept getting toes in wrong slots... so basically I'd be dead in T2 :) Might get a pair of the Merrills then. What do other people do? do then get quicker to put on as they wear or do you just accept the time penalty, not like I'm going to win anyway I suppose :)
Hi, I know this comment is quite a few years old lol, but after reading it, I thought I would answer. So the way I do it with my Vibram FF's now, is I do my best to line up my toes *before* I slip my foot fully into the shoe, and then I'll use my fingers to wiggle the *toe slots over my toes* (you can also do the opposite - wiggle your toes into the correct slots). Hope this helps!
@@hmf33 lol, yeah, I've gone through 2 pairs of merril vapour glove and 2 pairs of merril trail gloves since this. The ff are not viable, they would kill me in T2. Actually I've started wearing the trail gloves as general shoes. They get a bit of bad press due to not being real barefoot shoes, but actually I find them a really good compromise.
I've had my vibrams for about a week now and my husband laughs at how funky they look and how I where them everywhere anyway (got the pink and red cuz they were discounted!). I LOVE THEM! Never worn anything more comfortable! Just trying now to pace myself now to start running in them and transitioning out of my old clunky running shoes 😁
That's awesome to hear 😁😁😁 yeah they are so comfortable, you never know you're missing until you try them. Take the run transition slow and you'll never look back 😊
Hi Jene - thank you for posting. I have been considering Vibrams, but am not sure if I should buy women’s or men’s or even which model. I wear a 9 in women’s, but have turned to men’s 8s because my wide foot is more comfortable in them. I am buying for walking and running on pavement. Any guidance would be most appreciated. Thanks. :)
Steve - would love to hear your thoughts as well!
safeinmyheart1 have ypu ever looked at vivobarefoot if not take a look
luck aerts
Hey there! Thank you for responding. I got my first KSO EVOs, but they were too small. I have bigger KSOs coming, as well as V ALPHAs! I will share my experience here once I get a proper fit. 😊
Vapour glove vs vivobarefoot primus lite?
I started running back in 2016. I started looking for youtube videos and found your channel. I would like to thank you for all your uploads and your advice. From 5kms, to relay triathlons, to full triathlons, to 10km and now to 21km half marathon now in 2019....Channels like yours helped me along the way. Big shout out to you Steve in your shed from a Brit in Mexico.
I ordered the Vibram FiveFingers and Merrell Vapor Glove 4 last week from Amazon Prime Wardrobe for a 7-day trial. The Merrell VG4s were delayed so I've been wearing the VFFs around the house exclusively for five days. The VG4s arrived today. I honestly wanted the VFFs to be the ones I preferred with them being 20g lighter (each shoe) and quirky :-) but after the ease of slipping on the VG4s and finding that my toes splay more easily than in the VFFs, I'm opting for the Merrells. Appreciate your review and comparison, Kalclash, keep up the great work!
Hi, I found your channel when I was looking for KSO EVO reviews. Are they still your favourite? Thanks
I have used Vibrams for about 12 years now. It's all I run in. They are by FAR the best shoes for technical running. I use the V-Trail 2.0 exclusively now.
Opinion on VivoBarefoot running shoes mate??
Xero shoes are the best, hands down.
You convinced me so I went for the Merrell and did just completed the first leg in my 21 km commute to work. Awesome feeling!
I would die to understund the funky colors merrell are using? I know running people doesnt care much about fashion and the ones that do, have a very bad taste but serisouly make all models in pure 100% black as a base and take it from there! I cant get the vibrams cuz I dont want to have to buy special socks and merrell well a big nooo! I am getting the VIVO barefoot in black. I also dont understund why nike and adidas who used to make these shoes 3 years ago doesnt anymore!
Doesn't it sort of undercut their current marketing scheme? The "technology" that's currently being advertised in the shoe models are exactly what scares away people that prefer minimalist. However, it seems they chose the side that has far more market potential and avoided the controversy.
Hi, I'm actually debating between these 2 shoes now. I've never owned a pair of V-Runs or Vapor Gloves. I do love running in the V-Alphas I have now, and was looking for a shoe I could kind of slip on without worrying about my toes.
That being said, I've *never* tried the V-Runs and am very curious if you would recommend those over the Vapor Gloves seeing I've never tried them. I unfortunately I'm only able to order 1 :(
I bought the vapor glove 4 Merrell shoes: don't buy them! I don't
recommend them at all. It's bad quality. After wearing them only 5
months there is already a hole in the sole. And it costs 100€...
scandalous
I also run the v-run and the vapor glove 3 and love every step i make! Never ever wear cushined running shoes again, barefoot running rules big time!
You know it! 😁 Nothing beats the feeling of barefoot running!!
Why don't you allow sheep in your shed? That seems racist. Great review though! Merrells are the way to go!
The merrell vapor gloves are fantastic for any running on the track they give a great snapback and are faster on road than VFF's however the big flaw with them is the upper starts to fall apart, I've heard of others with this issue
Denis Keane 💪🏻💪🏻 agreed about the snapping back. I haven't done enough miles in them yet to notice much wear - probably because I'm running in two pairs. I'll keep an eye out for it. I find in general minimal running shoes wear faster than normal coffin running shoes
@George get barefoot shoes straight away, either Vivo or 5 fingers or these merrels. What you can't do straight away is start running and try to log miles. There's only one guide and that's your body's feedback. Try to walk and move in them a lot, squats, some ankle mobility drills, lunges.. If that's ok try long walks, if ok try short runs skip rope. etc... as soon as you have any signs of pain stop!! And do what's fun. Nobody can tell you exactly what to do because nobody knows all the variables, like your joint mobility, strength and elasticity of your calves, past injuries, mislignments, age, weight plus endless individual variables. ... Just get familiar with moving in barefoot shoes and do what's fun what feels good... This is polar opposite approach to most of other training advices that emphasize hard work, pushing against pain etc.. what helps against bunions is correct toes product. Either way, you want to get rid of them because 26 is too young and may affect your ability to move and enjoy life too early
What about vivobarefoot Primus trail FG ?
That's interesting that you mentioned the Achilles issue with the Merrell. I get a slight niggle there on my left foot. Its not really a big enough issue for me to stop using them but I do get that. I've been running in them for over two years now and do 50+ mile weeks and really enjoy the minimal running feel. The only time I wear my Altra Loan Leak (also 0 drop) is for runs longer than 15 miles as where I run is kind of brutal hard rock and stone trails and forest roads. I tried Vibam's but the shape of my foot didn't work at the toe end of that shoe, and believe me I tried to make it work as I really wanted that one. One negative with the Merrell is that even though the toe box is wide enough to allow my already splayed out toes to move correctly the section from the ball of the foot to the mid shoe is way too narrow and after a few hundred miles use they get a hole on the side. Over all though, if you do it really carefully the transition from a running shoe (foot crutch i like to call them) to barefoot/minimalist then your not going to want to go back the way! I believe that if a lot of runners with foot issues took time to transition to barefoot running even if they also still ran and raced in traditional stacked shoes then it will pay dividends to them in the long term, same goes for people that don't yet have issues. The 28 bones and related muscles, tendons and ligaments in your feet need just as much strength training as your legs and back, if not even more, and wearing supported shoes all the time just doesn't allow that conditioning to happen! This is always a contentious subject. I fully expect flack for stating my views on the subject :)
With all the variation in toe length I dont understand how it's possible to fit in the shoes unless you 100% have the same length/ layout of toes. For example egyptian foot versus greek foot.
Good vid mate , subscribed.
Would you suggest these shoes to heavier dudes ?
furvur ado
I recommend the Merrell glove 4 and mix master 2, have used them both and are great minimalist shoes. Interesting to hear you had Achilles issues wearing the gloves, I also have had Achilles flare ups with the glove 4.
Merrel don’t seem to have a very wide toe box
All I can compare that to is the one pair of barefoot shoes I’ve ever had & thats vivo
I'm actually looking at Merrells after years of VFF's because of the oncoming winter. A bit more like a running mitten than a glove.
Did you get them? What’s u think
Steve, how do you rate the Merrell Trail glove? I wear them for road as well, as they gives a bit more cushioning, over Vapor glove.
Hey man, I haven't actually tried them but imagine they're quite similar to the vapor glove but with a bit more sole protection and grip
I have both. Trail Glove 3 and Vapor Glove 4. The trail glove works great on hard surface. The Vapor Glove short not be used on a rocky trail as it got zero protection.
Hey Kalclashfitness what’s the fastest shoe of the three. Merrel Vapor Glove 3, New Balance Minimus Hi Rez or the Newton MV3?
Thank you! This was helpful
Thanks for the post! I've been running in different Merrell models and have wondered how they fared to the Vibram Fivefingers. I appreciate the info!
No worries, I'd recommend trying a pair of Vibrams too 😊
Best Merrell Vapor glove deals: amzn.to/2tN8Cio generally ranging from £55 - £65. Bargain!
I started with Fivefingers but my little toes are very low on my foot. When I switched to my Vapor Glove I was very happy. I had been running barefoot for a while in between but cut myself on a piece of glass and stopped doing that. Minimalist shoes are the only way I can run without hurting myself.
Nice video, btw. First I've seen of yours. Good job.
I like Vibrams but man are they a pain in the ass to put on sometimes.
Hello do you use socks in your Merrell Vapor? (:
Hey Steve -- love the comparison. I think anyone looking at the vapor gloves simply because they look like normal shoes should really consider trying the Vibrams first. The vapor gloves I have started falling apart after a month, plus they were infinitely less fun to run and walk in than my Vibrams.
Any chance of a Vibram V-alpha review in the future? :)
Do the Vibram Five Fingers require the separate toe socks?
Most people I know run without socks in them
Epic UK accent and great review :-)
I find the merrells too narrow
great Video. Love my vibram fivefingers v-runs too. how many miles do you get out of them?
greetings from Israel
Thanks man glad you liked it. Normally get at least 500 miles of hard running out of a pair 😊
thanks for the very quick reply. Glad to hear that. So I've got mor 250 miles to go. ;)
Ok, so I finally have a pair of Vibrams that fit and thought I would add my thoughts. I found sizing to be a pain in the a**, so I hope this helps someone. I wear a women’s 9 or a men’s 8. Men’s are better for me because I have a wide foot. My first pairs were men’s KSO EVOs size 38 and 39. Both were way too small. The new batch arrived today. I decided to try the KSOs in 40 and 41 and due to Vibram’s CSR Madeline’s suggestion, ordered V ALPHAS in the same sizes, as well (all men’s). The ALPHAs have more tread and some holes to drain moisture. She felt the extra support might benefit me, as I am new to minimalist shoes. I tried the 41 ALPHAs first, but was quickly disappointed. They were too stiff and the stitching detail was scratchy against my skin. It was an immediate ‘these shoes are not going to work’ type feeling... So, on to the 41 KSOs. DING, DING, DING! We have a winner! Finally!!! This is after weeks of research, ordering and exchanges (Hello Vibram people... we need some stores in New Jersey, please!) 😬. The KSOs are so much softer and more flexible than the ALPHAs!!! Still, these shoes are going to take some getting used to... I do not have long, well separated toes... and my pinky toe really cuddles up to my ‘ring’ toe (they’re so cute together! lol) So, I can really feel the divisions between my toes. I haven’t done more than walk in the house, which means the jury is still out on how they will feel when I get moving. As I’m sitting here with them on, I find myself wishing I had socks to soften up the toe divisions (but these 41s would be too tight with socks 😩) Has anyone had blisters from these? I see potential for that to happen, for sure. Maybe these won’t work, after all. 🤬🤯😢
safeinmyheart1 You can spell-out “ass.” The Pope is on vacation so you should be alright. For me I’m able to minus a half size or so from my running shoes. So in On Cloud I take a 43 but in vibrams I’m 42.
How would you size the shoes, UK generally a UK 8.5 should I size up?
@@rosscanning1277
Hi Ross. I wish I could help you, but I don't remember. I gave up the vibrams because they were hurting my feet. I walk on pavement and minimalist shoes are a mistake for that. I do wear toe socks with my Adidas sneakers. They help prevent blisters between my toes!
@@CarlosRodriguez-cj8oo
Asssssss. I have been liberated!
Awesome Steve, love your videos. I can't ever imagine going back to shoes after I discovered Five Fingers...they just feel so much more natural!
are the merrell gloves vegan?
hello :)
I'm a total newbie when it's about barefoot shoes but I'm planning to pick up my first pair exclusively for hiking (on not too technical terrain, max 20 km or so). I cannot really decide between Vibram V-Trek and Merrell Vapor Glove 4. What is your opinion, which one can be a good choice for the first pair of barefoot shoes for easy hiking in the mountains? Thanks for helping me! Agnes
I live in South America and want to try Vibram but there are no stores, but I can order online. Size reference, I'm a 9 in Nike free flynet.
What are the differences between the different Vibram models? Should I just get any available or look for something in particular?
Thanks!
Thanks for the advice, good video
No worries sir, thank you for watching!
So why do you need these shoes? Why not just run barefoot? I ran barefoot on trails last year for the first time at night and it was ok. I just want barefoot shoes for normal errands and stuff. I'm curious.
This is a very helpful review. Just discovered your channel. I've transitioned to barefoot several months ago. Love it! Knee and toe pain finally gone after years of it. I"m almost 50, my only complaint is my lower back is hurting now for the first time in my life. I know the switch to barefoot triggered it, was hoping it was temporary but it still hurts. Any advice? I run barefoot on our indoor gym track, outdoors I wear the Merrill Vaporglove. Wanting to try Vibrams.
Perhaps do some yoga on the off-days look up "yoga with Adriene's" 30-day yoga classeson youtube
You could try doing some targeted stretching or yoga as R K mentioned. I would also focus on improving your running form if you haven't already as this could be one of the causes. This channel has a tutorial on transitioning exercises for barefoot running along with some other content that might be useful.
Hello,
I am a sprinter running in the 10' that had flat fleet and bunion surgery.
I try at best to transition to barefoot running and barefoot shoes.
I use the primus lite III as casual shoes + correct toes spreader and recently ordered the Vibram 5 finger V run to experience the toe seperation.
What would you suggest for sprinting on track ? Are the V run a good option when you speak about impact absorption ?
regards
Bought the vapor glove 3 before this review. Knew it all along - Like vibrams but look like a normal shoe.
Pretty much dude, but with some subtle differences in feel
I love my vibram but I struggle with over 5k so what I do is use a pair of Hokas. But hopefully I'll be able to run more than 5k in vibrams
There shouldn't be any limiting factors with you going over 5k buddy. What's stopping you?
Great vids mate , im coming from a saucony freedom looking into some minimal footwear, your videos are helping a lot thanks
Bought some merrell vapor gloves today. Hoping to slam some big miles in them. Do you do long runs in them?
Yes buddy, many times over 10 miles, several times over 20 miles
Ok awesome. I got worried after I bought them because I realized many of the reviewers on Amazon were not actually using them for running. Glad to hear that, thanks for the review and response!
awesome review. Just wish we could still buy the VFF Bikila. I love the two pairs i am still nursing through their final days. Nothing in the current VFF lineup comes close to the degree of fit (for my hobbit like feet) :(
I bought V-Run and was running few months, but I have let's call it siamese finger, so the gap between second and third fingers is smaller than normally and after running I felt pain, so I'm selling my five fingers and will try Vapor now.
Dude! I love your reviews :) and completely agree
I run in body glove water shoes....they do the job...and are cheap...
Good shout! If they fit and they're comfy then do it!? 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻
the vaporglove series have been my best daily walkaround / errand shoe. Vibram LMD LS have been the most comfy vibram so far. seam-free inside
Good point man, there's room for both in this minimalist running gig!
Thank you for your video. It was helpful!
Got any tips for heavyweight runners? I just transitioned to the trail glove 5 and they really work my calves but give me more stamina however I cant get rid of tired legs!
What is your shoe size on both the merrell and vibram? do the merrell run larger? Thanks
Anyone try 5-finger with bunions? 🙈 I hate my old lady feet at 32 lol
What size do you where in VFF and what size for vapor glove?
I bought 2 Vibram FF 25$ sample boxes online from Vibram’s site (v-run & v-trail). I couldn’t believe my eyes and only in my size. They arrived and look good as new. That was approx. 200$ off!!
Nice dude! That's unbelievable!! I'd say I'd look out for offers like that, but I think you hit the jackpot!
Great video Steve, in a vivo barefoot I’m a uk 9 in v-runs I’m a uk 7 what advice can you give regarding size for the merrell glove 3.
Kind Regards Scott
Yo Scott! The Merrell sizing should be closer to your traditional shoe size. So I'm guessing a 9 for you
I have both, Fivefingers are my favorite, but as you say vapor gloves are a close second. The reason I wear vapor gloves is because I don't appreciate getting wet feet on damp or wet ground, you get a lot of water ingress around the toes. Probably not so much an issue with road running, but definitely a problem when cross country running.
Can't find a suitable five-fingers (shops a quite low on store). I'll continue with merrell then, but eventually i'll get the five fingers. Thanks for the review
I love my five fingers too. What do you run in in the winter? (im.over here in Ireland) I'm thinking about the winter- i dont think ill wear the five fingers then, but cant really bare the idea of anything else. (Ive had vivos and groundies)
Thank you for the great video 🤗
Vibram have some winter insulated five fingers as well as trail five fingers. us.vibram.com/shop/shop-all-products/womens-fivefingers-1/
skip to 2:10 for the titled content
I LOVE my vibrim 5fingers
#vibramlove
Can the Vaporglove handle a mix of road and trail? I'm very near to having a hole in the sole of my Bikilas, so want to replace them - wondering if I should stick with the trusty Fivefingers, or give Merrells a go?
Hey Laura, the Vapor Gloves aren't great for trail but they do a trail glove too if that's more your thing?
I run on a variety of surfaces :) I did order a pair of VaporGlove 3's, which were a bargain compared to my Bikilas, but unfortunately I found them weirdly uncomfortable, so they are going back. Long live Bikila Evos!
You can't beat the Bikilas!
Nope! :D Think I might try the Trek Ascent next though, before they are all gone! Any idea which model replaces them? So confused by v-this, v-that LOL
I've been trying to get into it and do alot of barefoot walking around the house to build up my muscles but I wonder how easy it is to change back and forth between shoes?I work in construction environments and right now I'm on vacation but work shoes and steel toes are must for my job and idk if I'll hurt myself
I use minimalist shoes all the time (mainly freet) except when wearing protective boots at work, I don’t find it a problem 👍
Before watching your video, I took my first Vibram FF out for a 6km though the woods...damn, I wish I had seen your video first! No guarantee I would have heeded your warning but, you are so right on, especially about the stairs. My GF is taking her Merrell V3's out for the first time today...just showed her your video and seriously hope she backs off her distance and intensity a bit. Thank you for posting and I'll definitely be back for more tips.
Hey man, how are the DOMS? Hope your GF faired better in her Merrells!!
I think it's barefoot vs minimalist.
Small difference
Yeah you're probably right dude
I was unable to run more than 100 yards for almost a year because of extreme knee/hip/back pain.
I heard about barefoot running and I now have a pair of the merrell vapor gloves and they are AMAZING!!!!
I can now run without pain again and I love it! but I can't run more than a mile without calf pain and I can't run more than two miles without ankle pain! what should I do?
My transition looks lots of time and strengthening of the lower leg and foot. Proper form work, soleus strengthening, and increase in cadence before upping speed or distance. I'm not sure about ankle, but I'll choose muscle soreness over joint pain all day!
Start with walking barefoot. Take your time. The skin on the bottom of your feet will tell you how far and how long to go. Once you’ve built up to about a mile or two, try a short jog; 100 yards/ meters. See how you feel the next day and continue. Your body will tell you what to do.
Do you wear minimalist shoes when you are not running, Steve? Like for work etc?
Hey Laura, I try to wear minimalist shoes all the time of I can, or if not as minimal as possible 😊
Have you tried any of the Vivo (none athletic shoes, more day wear) shoes? I've just ordered a pair of Feiyue kung fu shoes... super cheap and minimal for casual wear ^_^
I haven't tried the casual vivos but they're on my list!! I've got a pair of Etnies (probably spelt wrong) and they're zero drop and a decent casual shoe 😊
The upper on the" Merrell vapor glove 3" is of real bad quality. It looks like 30yaers old after only 3month! 👎
Ah mate seriously? How far have you run in them??
Kalclash Fitness V I've mostly used them as a regular shoes at work and so. Big holes, they're more like sandals now! Looks terrible but are comfy so I use them anyway! Haha 😀
THey have started to break for me aswell after 3-4 months of running to work 10km/workday
Same problem with the vapor glove 3. I wore a hole through the pinky toe side of the toe box after a month or maybe 2 of wearing casually. VFFs are the only shoe for me!
I am so torn between those two...
I love to Run in vibram
Thanks for this video! I appreciate you sharing your experience and insight.
I have both there both amazing....
Apriciated the time you put in this video Thanks alot!
Vibram is pronounced veebram, from it's inventor in 1937 Vitali Bramati (sp?)
One thing to add is They sides of thw merrel will get a holw worn into them
Great review. Plus you are extremely handsome. Look like a knight of the round table. Can see you in chainmail. 😀
No Ad 👺
I think they're after me again mate!! 😑 The sheep are at the door!!
Kalclash Fitness V haha,
Will re-watch and check for an ad
how does anyone afford these they are like $200
I assume you are in the USA, everything seems cheeper there and more accessible, sigh.. there isn't even a store that sells Vibram within a 100 miles of me.
@Chad yeah but with international shipping and exchange rate it never ends out economicaly, not to mention a lot of the time the item won't ship internationally ;(
@@theSEGAtwistisover9k Where do you live ?
Have you tried running in freet shoes? Just found your channel btw, great content, barefoot and vegan for the win!
I find Merrell too narrow, used to love my road gloves before my feet expanded.
You're right dude the toe box could do with being a smidge wider
Wow! Just watched you wash your Vibrams in 2014. So lean. What happened to turn you into official chubster?
Lol! I'll have to go back and have a watch dude. I think old age and being a parent are catching up to me 😂😂😂
Ignore him, Kalclash. He's just messing with you, and probably gots some dysmorphia neurosis him/herself. You've actually reverted back to your recent pre-injury days, so congrats on that. Looking sharp.
Thanks mate. Some interesting points raised and I'm definitely thinking it's time to move back to Vibrams. I had them years ago for hiking but have since taken up trail running so I'd like to see them perform under those conditions. I know what you mean about your feet gripping. The increased dexterity of the foot is beyond belief unless you've work them. Thanks again.
I tried on a pair of 5 fingers (v-run), must admit that they felt very comfy and I'm sure I'd run well in them...only downside is that even with dry feet, it took me about 10 mins to get them on; kept getting toes in wrong slots... so basically I'd be dead in T2 :) Might get a pair of the Merrills then. What do other people do? do then get quicker to put on as they wear or do you just accept the time penalty, not like I'm going to win anyway I suppose :)
Hi, I know this comment is quite a few years old lol, but after reading it, I thought I would answer. So the way I do it with my Vibram FF's now, is I do my best to line up my toes *before* I slip my foot fully into the shoe, and then I'll use my fingers to wiggle the *toe slots over my toes* (you can also do the opposite - wiggle your toes into the correct slots).
Hope this helps!
@@hmf33 lol, yeah, I've gone through 2 pairs of merril vapour glove and 2 pairs of merril trail gloves since this. The ff are not viable, they would kill me in T2. Actually I've started wearing the trail gloves as general shoes. They get a bit of bad press due to not being real barefoot shoes, but actually I find them a really good compromise.
@@deanb61 Nice, that sounds great. I may consider trying a pair in the future. 👍🏼