barefoot running is legit
925978
I first read about barefoot running back in 2006, and I've been working on my form since then. I started with a pair of Nike Free trainers, but it was a few weeks that I finally bought my first pair of barefoot shoes (these ones).

While changing to a forefoot strike from a heel strike had made a big difference for me already, the relatively thick soles of the shoes I was using before kept me from achieving my full potential. I always had to think while running and consciously make minor adjustments and corrections.

I bought these for a Tough Mudder and only got a chance to try them once before actually running the course. Right of the bat, I felt like a new man when I hit the trail. All the adjustments I had to think about before came naturally. These shoes are lightweight, but offer great protection on trails (of course you still need to maintain awareness where you're putting your feet or you could hurt yourself).

My calves were sore for about three days afterwards, but that means my form was correct. The next time I wore these shoes was on the Tough Mudder course (Charlotte, NC 2013). The shoes stayed on, gave me the protection I needed, and drained water quickly. I would highly recommend these to anyone who likes to go off-road, fast and for long distances. I really can't say enough good things about them.

I have no frame of reference to compare them to other barefoot shoes, so I can't really answer any questions to that effect.
4940846
Whether you intend to run with or without shoes, this book is The Guide for every runner. I was intrigued by barefoot running and had many questions answered to my satisfaction by other runners or trainers. This book had everything I needed to start running the right way. i was logging 100 miles a week before this book, i can now say I am learning to run. i am thrilled to notice i am running better every day.
1013535
Been running exclusively in Five Fingers for 7 years now...only recently tried wearing socks with them. Wasn't expecting to notice as much of a difference as I have - but my runs are more comfortable, my shoes don't stink quite as bad as normal, and best of all the wear and tear on my feet (blisters, chaffing etc) is totally eliminated, meaning I can go longer and more often. Thumbs up! (toes too)
1493722
I have always bought Nike running shoes, but these Nike shoes were one of the best I have purchased. The lightweight shoe makes it easy for you to run, without feeling as if you were caring 5 pounds. They make it more of an enjoyable run. Also, these shoes are breathable, so if you have sweaty feet they will help. Even when you wear them through rain, snow, or any weather they still hold up and dry fast. They will never smell bad, since they can breathe.  You probably are thinking with these kinds of weather they will get dirty, which they will, but you will have no trouble cleaning them off. Its super easy! Furthermore, they are flexible, so your foot can curve, as you are running. They are not stiff, so you will not have sore feet and will make your feet feel free, in these running shoes. This may scare you, because you think they will not have good support, but they actually have great support. Moreover, the color is even great if you like something different, rather than the normal black and white shoes. In addition, when I bought these shoes they fit me perfect. They don't run too small or too big, so you are able to keep them and not have to send them back. Not having to send a pair of shoes back makes you happy that you can wear them right away. Although they cost a lot, they are worth it. They will last you for a very long time. I highly recommend these Nike running shoes.
1625862
This book covers all the basics of re-learning to run barefoot.  As with everything in life you need a strong foundation; this book will lay out all the knowledge to build your temple on a foundation of rocks.  A must read for any aspiring, barefoot runner.
787117
Great running shoes.  Won't run barefoot again.
2449760
Had the first run in these shoes this morning 10klm off trail ,Spectacular...plenty of grip in the mud,hadnt worn them prior apart from initial try on...NO chaffing,and the sharp stuff didn't hurt,yeeha,I have only been minimilistic running for about 6 months ,using kite-board shoes and some bare feet ....so pretty outstanding result,{especially since I didn't break the feet or shoes in gently]the fit is very snug but obviously right,happy with the online self measure instructions,Go The Vibram.
1230113
It's a great story AND a remarkable discussion of the developing "barefoot"running movement!

The author, a self-described galump, put on shoes and started running and in process comes to understand the joy of running!

A great read and a huge motivater to get the shoes off and run in the grass!
4843288
These are the most amazing shoes I've ever bought.  They give you the freedom of feeling barefoot without the concern of sharp objects on the ground.  Start slowly though, they take some new muscle training time.  One of the best features is the presence of an arch support.  Not everyone can go complete free support like the Five-Fingers style.  These are easier to get on than the competition style also.  The two outside toes go in the same sleeve which is much easier.  It didn't long at all to get used to the toes being in their own sleeve either.  I wore these hiking, swimming, running, ANYWHERE!

I dropped one star for the sole reason that there is now airflow inside them.  You are essentially wearing a wet suit on your feet.  You have to actively dry them out in the sun and wash your feet when you take them off if you don't start drying them out from the very beginning.  My wife made me take them off outside before coming into the house.  I will remember to dry them out right from the beginning with my next pair.

After having them for 6 months, absolutely NO tears or rips anywhere.  The Velcro is still holding strong.  I wear them everyday for working my pool business.
1325407
I train quite a bit.  I don't typically run distances longer than 1.5 miles, but I am active with weight lifting, Olympic lifting, CrossFit, and some sports here and there.  I am 29 and have been training my guts out for 16 years.

I used to get shin splints badly and had to quit running NCAA track as a result.  It wasn't until I was graduating college that a friend (a CrossFit trainer before it was popular) recommended these to me.  I never looked back.  Eight years later I still consider these the ultimate, all-around training shoe.

The KMD Sport is the most comfortable Vibram 5-Finger shoe I have owned (among 14 different pairs).  Running, lifting, playing sports, and even lounging around the house is easier and more comfortable in these shoes.  If you like a truly barefoot feel you will love these.  They feel like butter wrapped around your feet.

Additionally, if you're looking for the perfect deadlifting footwear because you can't go barefoot in your gym, look no further!  I would, however, skip these for squat and cleans.  Instead I recommend a dedicated Oly Lifting Shoe such as Adidas.
2010500
I have used this product for the past couple of years and I love how my feet look like now. I walk barefoot a lot in my backyard so this works great.
2855996
Love, Love these shoes.  I ordered a second pair just in case they become unavailable, as is the case with everything I love. As a barefoot runner, these shoes are perfect, comfy, lightweight, simple. Plenty of toe room. The plastic upper did tear shortly after I started wearing them but that doesn't affect the shoe at all, the soles are wearing well !! My foot doesn't slide around at all, no laces to come undone, no blisters.  Great shoe!!
4614009
I cannot state anything about the greatness of this book that haven't already been said here before by hundreds of reviewers. Still I fell I must add my voice, just to make it completely clear how amazing this book is. Not only is it exciting and well written, it contains tons of information ranging from ancient human history to modern day ultra running. It even contains hints on how you can become a better runner (by following the&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Evolution/dp/B000A7GEGW/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Evolution</a>,<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Chi/dp/1416549447/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Chi</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Pose/dp/0972553762/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Pose</a>&nbsp;running techniques). This book helped me realize that going minimal (and eventual barefoot) is necessary in order to stay injury free. Most importantly I have regained that innocent childish love of running by focusing on an easy, light and smooth stride and above all remembering to have fun.

Enough said, just read it.
1315153
I decided to put in the effort to run more often, and I needed some new running shoes, so I picked these up a few weeks ago. Not only did I want shoes to run in, but also shoes to wear when the weather doesn't permit flip flops. After 3 runs, they've felt great! I ran 2 miles in them about 10 minutes after they were dropped off on my porch, and I had no problems. I walked through some snow with them yesterday on my way to run, and ran in the wetness from the melted snow today, and my feet stayed nice and dry, even though it was pretty wet outside. I haven't casually worn them yet, but I suspect they would be just fine to wear all day. I will also be taking them to Southeast Asia with me in a few months where I expect I will do a lot of walking. I am very happy with these shoes so far and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a good shoe for running, exercising, or for casual wear.
2012003
I like to go barefoot around the house and they are so comfortable, it's like running around the house barefoot. I'm enjoying the soft, fit like a glove feeling I get when I wear them.
1060258
I had back surgery a four years back, and have been pain free through a combination of yoga, core strengthening exercises and barefoot-style footwear. I was nervous when I faced culinary school because I'd be on my feet for so many hours. These crocs allow me to spread my toes, run (if necessary) across a slippery floor to turn off a boiling pot, protect from falling knives, and even though every part of me aches from the workout school provides, after a long day my back is fine.

If you are used to a lot of sneaker-style support you may take a week to adjust to them (bring an extra pair to switch to school/work) but after you get your muscles in shape, you'll never want anything else. The reviewer who "heard" crocs are bad for your back should provide some sources. Unless you have unusually high arches or unusually flat feet, shoes that provide less support are actually better for you. Do some searches on "barefoot running" and "Stanford head coach Vin Lananna" or check out the book&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Born-to-Run-A-Hidden-Tribe-Superathletes-and-the-Greatest-Race-the-World-Has-Never-Seen/dp/0307279189/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen</a>&nbsp;... less is more and crocs give you just enough to stay safe in the kitchen, and no more than that.
2484322
I live in Arizona, and it's the next best thing to going barefoot (without scorching your foot on the pavement) I get complements every time I wear them. I have 4 pair of them in different colors.