Question 1

wpuld anyone suggest running in these for a more "barefoot" running experience?

Accepted Answer

You can run in these, but they are more intended for casual wear. I would highly recommend finding a pair of Bikilas,  Lontras or the new V-Run (apparently the updated version of Bikilas) for running; they have softer and more absorbent insoles and thicker outsoles. The softer insole is also less prone to blisters, although this can be mitigated if you my socks for them, like Injinjis.Transitioning from a standard running shoe to Vibrams is a huge shift and needs to be approached with care. It's recommended that you cut back to about 30% for your normal distance in the beginning, and slowly and gradually build up. That's because you will be developing an entirely new muscle set in your legs. In my experience it shifts more load to below the knee, where most distance running favors the thighs. Without the crutch of thick foam rubber and gel soles to cushion your feet, you will need to train your legs to become your shock absorbers; you either develop a more "bouncing" gait where your calves and knees act like springs or you beat your feet, knees and hips to death on any run over 6 miles. I like running in them better, I feel lighter on my feet and have a better feel for the terrain. I would just caution anybody to ease into the transition. Runners have a tendency to dismiss the "start with 30% and work up slowly over time" rule and think "that only applies to ordinary people, not me." I did, and it applied to me after all. It applies to you, too. Once you make the transition though, I think you'll prefer the experience in Vibrams to standard, traditional running shoes.

Question 2

How would these fit on an extra wide foot?

Accepted Answer

Yes I wear 4EE and am a woman!!~~ they stretch to fit perfectly.  I have been running since 2008 and wearing Fives since 2009 as well as just plain barefoot running mostly.  Used to LOVE sprint style and have worn many others over the years.  Found El-X in 2016 and am never changing to another style if I can help it.  They are so light and like a sock with a rubber sole.  So FLEXY!!~ I roll them up and tuck in pockets to run .. love them .

Question 3

Is it okay to use it without socks and be cool about the condition of its sole in the long term?

Accepted Answer

I've been wearing  the El-X as my only shoe for 3 years now, that being said; I ALLWAYS wear socks with these now, they start to stink after only 1 or 2 days without them. I walk at least 10 miles EVERY single day in these, and they consistently last me about 3 months. If you walk less (most people average 1 mile or less a day) they will probably last longer

Question 4

I have webbed middle toes. Would they still work?

Accepted Answer

I've seen vibram make a pair that's a hybrid of closed toe and finger toe, it looks a lil weird but it just goes off the curvature of the outlinefrom your toes instead of full fingers, it may be a more ideal solution

VibramMen's Five Fingers, EL-X Shoe

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