Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

2015’s Vibram FiveFingers. An Overview.

An Introduction to 2015’s Vibram FiveFingers

2015 is here and we’re delighted to present to you a wonderful range of Vibram FiveFingers. We truly believe that this year there is something for everybody. Old styles such as the Trek Sport and the Seeya LS have made way for new releases, and we’re thrilled with the offering.

We’ve given them all a quirky name so hopefully you’ll be able to use this to figure out which style is best for you and your preferred uses. Each style has a quick overview so you can easily understand what the shoe is designed for:

  • The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR
  • The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR
  • The One For Water – Signa
  • The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop
  • The Classic – VI-B and EL-X
  • The Bestseller – KSO Evo
  • The Revolutionary (aka The Expensive One) – KMD Evo
  • The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS
  • The Road Runner – Bikila Evo
  • The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP
  • The Casual One – CVT-Hemp

Have a read through the article and click the images to see the full product description of each.

The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR

NEW FOR 2015

  • Trail Running
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Mud / Obstacle Events

The Trek Ascent replaces the Trek Sport and the leather (LR) version has been released to satisfy the huge demand for an off-road leather shoe.

The shoe offers incredible rugged traction for all surfaces but is most capable on off-road adventures. The MEGAGRIP sole compound ensures you’ll have a firm and grounded experience when you’re on the trails.

The Trek Ascent LR does exactly the same job, except you can expect more durability with added water resistance from the leather and hemp upper fabric.Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

The Trek Ascent – Available for both men and women in a choice of different colours

The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR

  • Mud / Obstacle Events
  • Trail Running

If you’ve ever ran a muddy obstacle event you will have no doubt seen people lose their shoes in the mud or witnessed people losing their grip on the wet and muddy sections. That’s where the Spyridon MR comes in. MR stands for ‘Mud Runner’ and the shoe is equipped with a multidirectional lug pattern to ensure solid grip in all directions. Additionally, there is a molded 3D cocoon nylon mesh in the midsole to disperse impact.

Spyridon MR from Feetus.co.uk

 Men’s and Women’s Spyridon MR

The One For Water – Signa

  • Surfing and Watersports (Kayaking, Rowing, SUP)

FiveFingers’ signature water sport shoe, the Signa is ultra-thin, flexible and lightweight. The Signa offers incredible grip thanks to the WAVEGRIP sole compound and is very comfortable, both in and out of the water.

Vibram FiveFingers Signa - Watersports shoe from Feetus.co.uk

 The Signa – Available for men and women

The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop

NEW FOR 2015

  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure

Available for ladies’ only, the Alitza Loop replaces the incredibly popular original Alitza. Favoured by yoga, pilates and barre practitioners, but is also great for any indoor activities. Lightweight, breathable and perfect for fitness classes and studio sessions as well as travel and casual use.

Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Loop from Feetus.co.uk

The Alitza Loop. An elegant, ladies-only style

The Men’s Classic – EL-X

  • Indoor Training
  • Travel

Available for men only, although women with wider feet often prefer the EL-X. This simple ‘barefoot’ shoe has no fastening mechanism and is versatile, comfortable and easy on and easy off. Equipped with Vibram’s thinnest sole (just 3.5mm), the EL-X offers incredible ground feel. The minimalist nature of the shoe, its flexibility and its low weight make it a perfect travel companion.

Vibram FiveFingers EL-X from Feetus.co.uk

 The EL-X. Available in black and red/black. Designed for men but also suitable for women

The Women’s Classic – VI-B

  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Travel

Available for women only, the VI-B is for the elegant minimalist. Consider this an ‘evloved ballet flat’; featherlight, breathable and slim-fitting. Great for indoor training, casual use and for no-fuss travel. Also comes with a free polyester mesh bag that matches your shoes!

Vibram FiveFingers VI-B from Feetus.co.uk

 Available in a choice of colours, the beautiful VI-B

The Bestseller – KSO Evo

  • Indoor Training
  • Road Running
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

The KSO Evo replaced the original KSO back in 2013 and has become a firm favourite since. Ideal for pretty much anything, it is difficult to say what the KSO Evo is actually best for. Its great for hitting the gym, for tarmac running, and due to its sleek design (that isn’t quite as ‘outrageous’) as some other styles, the KSO Evo is popular as an everyday shoe.

Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo from Feetus.co.uk

Always a hit! The KSO Evo available in various colours for both men and women

The Revolutionary – KMD Evo

NEW FOR 2015

  • Parkour, Free Running & Similar
  • Indoor training
  • Casual & Leisure

Inspired by the rise in parkour and free running, the KMD Evo is a revolutionary new shoe from Vibram Fivefingers. The upper fabric is made from 100% low elastic polyester filament (similar to Nike’s FlyKnit material). The sole is fantastic for dynamic movement, for climbing, leaping and balancing. Its true that this shoe is expensive, but the KMD Evo certainly feels like a luxurious product.

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 

Leap, bound, climb, run. The KMD Evo for men and women

The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS

  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

Previously known as the Komodo Sport, the KMD Sport LS is hands-down the best indoor training shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The multi-drection lug pattern on the soles makes it great for agile, lateral movements and intense workouts. The flexibility of the shoe provides great feedback (barefoot feel) and the upper fabric is reinforced in places to support the likes of rope climbing and other CrossFit-type exercises.

KMD Sport LS from Feetus.co.uk

The KMD Sport LS: Available for men and women in various colours

The Road Runner – Bikila Evo

  • Road Running
  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

The Bikila Evo is an ideal shoe to transition in to barefoot running. At 6.5mm the sole is about halfway between the thinnest and thickest making it a perfect indtroductory shoe.

But that’s not all. The Bikila Evo is the premium road running shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The lightweight EVA midsole provides a thin blanket of cushioning that really helps during races and long runs.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 Rapid! The Bikila Evo, for road running

The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP

  • Road Running
  • Snow and Ice
  • Poor Weather Running

Introduced in late 2014, the Bikila Evo WP was a godsend to many. Finally, we have a ‘barefoot’ running shoe that is 100% waterproof. A total revalation, the Bikila Evo is startlingly good-looking, and the ICETREK sole compound acts as a sticky grip on ice and snow.Bikila Evo Waterproof from Feetus

 

The Casual One – CVT Hemp

  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

Minimalist shoe lovers will be impressed by the CVT Hemp. Lightweight, breathable and stylish; there’s no fastening mechanism – it’s a simple slip-on shoe where the heel can also fold down to act like a clog. Durable and comfortable.

Vibram FiveFingers CVT Hemp from Feetus.co.uk
CVT Hemp, available for both men and women

 

What do you think of 2015’s Vibrams?

With the increase in people participating in muddy obstacle events and the growing popularity of trail and ultra running, we believe the Trek Ascent is going to be the big favourite five-toe’d shoe of 2015. But there seems to be a massive movement in people getting fit, going to fitness classes and PT sessions so the KMD Sport LS and the KSO Evo are likely to be big hits too.

Which is your favourite style for 2015?

If you could, what else would you have liked to see?

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo - New for 2015

2015 Vibram FiveFingers. Sneak Preview No.3: KMD Evo

For the last four years, the Vibram FiveFingers KMD (formerly Komodo) Sport has been the go-to shoe for gym-goers. In 2015, the KMD Sport LS remains, but has a little brother; the KMD Evo.

Introducing the KMD Evo

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

According to Vibram, “The new KMD EVO defies gravity (and conventional wisdom), allowing athletes extraordinary freedom for dynamic movement both in the air and on the ground. For fitness fanatics without boundaries, the KMD EVO transcends traditional sport, making it the ideal leaping, climbing, balancing shoe for those seeking a minimal shoe experience with maximum flight potential.”

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Available for both men and women

  • WEIGHT: M43 = 7.40oz W38=5.64oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 11.8mm (6mm EVA midsole + 2 mm insole + 3.8mm
  • Rubber outsole)
  • INSOLE: 2mm polyurethane insole + anti-microbial drilex sockliner
  • UPPER MATERIAL: 100% low elastic polyester filament
  • VEGAN
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Feetus Verdict

Whilst looking at the KMD Evo there is no doubt that this is an exceptionally high quality shoe. It looks as though it has taken inspiration from the Nike Flyknit, with the polyester filament upper, and is extremely comfortable and feels very breathable.

The shoe is noticeably heavier than other Vibrams, and the sole is the thickest ever seen on a pair of FiveFingers.

Vibram have definitely got the aesthetics right with this shoe. The KMD Evo looks so cool and features reflective print too.

The big turn-off is the price. These things ain’t cheap, and come with a hefty £180 RRP. As such, we believe the KMD Evo is a shoe for the purists only. Let’s hope they don’t make any more ridiculously priced shoes!!

Fans of Parkour, Urban gymnastics, break dancers and Free Runners will love the KMD EVO.

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo - New for 2015

CQOTW5: The KMD Sport for Tough Mudder, or Something Else?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post every-so-often to our favourite customer questions, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our latest CQOTW:

I recently can a Tough Mudder in my KMD Sport. They had enough grip, but let in a lot of debris. Which Vibram FiveFingers would you recommend for tackling mud obstacle races?

Its been very busy for us this week, we’ve recently taken delivery of new stock, including New Balance and Ultimate Direction, as quite coincidentally, we are ‘re-strategising’ to target trail runners and obstacle runners!
New-Balance-MT00BO2-Minimus-Blue-Orange-Trail-Running-Shoes-Feetus01
New Balance Minimus: Zero Drop. Perfect for trail running
The KMD Sport is best in the gym, indoor training, and tarmac running. I am really surprised you found them to have adequate grip on your Tough Mudder.
The KMD Sport LS. Typically designed for the gym
The KMD Sport LS. Typically designed for the gym
For mud/obstacle use, the stand-out style is the Spyridon MR. The MR stands for Mud Runner and was designed for muddy events. I can’t comment from personal experience, as the Spyridon has always been one of those shoes that has never quite agreed with me, but our customers love that shoe.
The Spyridon MR. Vibram's offering for muddy events
The Spyridon MR. Vibram’s offering for muddy events
The other option (and a personal favourite of mine) is the Trek Sport. The tread is actually deeper than the Spyridon MR, so it provides better traction on the trails. It is built on the KSO platform (which stands for Keep Stuff Out) so if you’re looking to keep the dirt out, this could be the one for you.
The Trek Sport: Black / Charcoal, for both men and women
The Trek Sport. Deep lugs provide grip and stability on the trail.
Further, keeping grit and debris out is never easy, especially when you’re swamping around in mud. However, from personal experience, a pair of toe socks combined with fastening your shoes up extra tight has always been the best solution for me.
Injinji Original Weight, No Show toe socks.
Injinji Original Weight, No Show toe socks.
Both the Spyridon MR and the Trek Sport are currently on offer. The Trek Sport is currently £40 off, but this price will be increased over the weekend. We also have an offer on a pair of Injinji toe socks (offer only applies to that particular pair), where you can pick up a pair for better than half price when you place an order with us.
Ultimate Direction's 'Jurek Endure'. Another piece of kit that will simplify your life on the trails
Ultimate Direction’s ‘Jurek Endure’. Another piece of kit that will simplify your life on the trails

The Vibram FiveFingers Glossary

If you want to read more about each style of Vibram FiveFingers. CLICK HERE to see our Vibram FiveFingers Glossary. 

CQOTW4: Which Vibrams for Gym Use, CrossFit, and Running?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post every-so-often to our favourite customer questions, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our latest CQOTW:

Which Vibram FiveFingers are best for CrossFit, in the Gym, and for Running?

From: Elliot

I am looking at purchasing some five finger shoes for going to the gym, Cross Fit and a little bit of running. There are a lot of styles to choose from. I’ve narrowed the choices down to two and was wondering if you could explain the differences between them to me. The Bikila and the Komodo Sport. Unless you have another suggestion for what shoe I should have. Many thanks.

Here’s Our Answer

First of all, you’ve done a great job of narrowing it down to the Bikila and the Komodo Sport. Both are excellent gym shoes, and are the best on offer from Vibram for your intended use. I’ll go in to a little more detail:

Komodo (KMD) Sport

  • The Komodo Sport (aka the KMD Sport) was first introduced by Vibram last year, and was designed with CrossFit in mind. The upper fabric is reinforced in areas that may get a little more worn if you’re doing certain CrossFit exercises (for example, climbing ropes).
  • The sole has a multi-directional tread with a rounded pattern, making it great for functional movement exercises. You will not find another shoe that is as good at manoeuvring on the spot.
The Komodo (KMD) Sport Sole: Notice that rounded sole on the forefoot
The Komodo (KMD) Sport Sole: Notice that rounded sole on the forefoot
  • The sole is a little thicker than the Bikila, as it comes with a 2mm Polyurethane footbed.
  • The downside of the Komodo Sport is that it is not a full-0n running shoe. It will serve you well on the treadmill, or for short bursts on the track or on tarmac – but the tread isn’t designed for an all-out runner.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport. Available in both lace (LS) and Velcro options

Bikila

  • The Bikila has been around now for about four years. A very popular shoe, the Bikila strikes a perfect balance between a gym shoe and a running shoe.
  • Very light, very minimal, and really versatile.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers Bikila. Available in both lace (LS) and Velcro options.

Laces vs Velcro

If you find you have a wider-than-normal foot, opt for the LS. If you find your feet are narrow, then Velcro will be your best option. If you’re pretty average, with normal width feet, the world is your oyster. Pick either; they’ll fit fine.

Another Option: The EL-X

  • The new-for-2013 EL-X stands for Entry Level Cross Trainer, and that’s exactly what it is.
  • There’s barely anything to this shoe. No fastening mechanism, just a 3.5mm sole, and it is Vibram FiveFinger’s lightest ever men’s style. It will give you the best ‘barefoot feet’ out of any other shoe.

Click here to buy Vibram FiveFingers EL-X at Feetus.co.uk. Available in black and grey/orange.

Rounding Off

I hope that gives you the information you need to make a decision.
My advice would be to ask yourself ‘How much running do I plan on doing?’, and if you answer is ‘Quite a lot’, I’d opt for the Bikila. If you think you’re going to live in the gym (or ‘The Box’) and the majority of your training will consist of WODs, gym work, and the occasional run, go for the Komodo Sport. Or if you’re on a budget, the El-X will provide a very nice introduction in to the world of Vibram fiveFingers.
Where are you ladies?

Women Don’t Run In Winter

It’s a Man’s World…

…So we’re giving the ladies 10% off this week! Use code: LADIESONLY at the checkout

The last two weeks have seen us ship out LOADS of orders around the country. Much more than normal, in fact. And we’re so grateful to all of our amazing customers who are helping us to continue to grow. We’re certainly becoming the go-to online store for Vibram FiveFingers.

The bestsellers of the last fortnight have been the Lontra, the Trek Sport, and the EL-X

However, during this time, 9 out of 10 orders have been for men!! 

This has had us scratching our heads. Do women decide not to run in winter? Do ladies hibernate? Do they choose to visit the gym only during the months March to October? Surely not! 

Ladies Only

That’s why, for the rest of this week only, we’ve decided to a LADIES ONLY discount (sorry gentlemen). Prove to us you still need your Vibram FiveFingers during the cold weather by ordering a pair today AND GET AN EXTRA 10% OFF by entering code: LADIESONLY at the checkout.

So, what’s it gonna be?

If you’re looking for a winter shoe, we recommend the Lontra, the Trek Sport, or the Spyridon.

 

If you’re after a gym shoe, look no further than the Komodo Sport.

 

 

If you want a new-for-2013 pair that are great for yoga, pilates, and indoor training, how about the Entrada or the Alitza?

 

And finally, if you’re just looking for a clearance-bargain, we recommend you click on the styles below and keep your fingers crossed we have your size available!

 

Don’t forget the Code: LADIESONLY

This sexist special offer is applicable only to ladies’ footwear and will only last until midnight this Friday (14th November 2013). So be quick.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE FULL RANGE OF WOMEN’S VIBRAMS. 

 

 

Feetus.co.uk: Number 1 Sport Shop

Customer Reviews of Feetus.co.uk

What Customers Think of www.Feetus.co.uk

Ever stumbled across an online store; you like their prices, the site has a nice feel, but you have never heard of the company and it might just put you off? I have. What’s the next thing you do? You might type in Google: “customer reviews of website x” to see what other people think of them… Depending on how others have rated that particular online store, this makes an impact on your decision…

You Love Feetus.co.uk (The Highest Rated Sport Shop!!)

Luckily for us, our customers love us. We love to give the best possible customer service. We like to throw in freebies, and surprise our customers. We’re here to offer help and advice, whether you email us, phone us (07749 545 631), or chat to us via our online chat facility. And to prove that our customers love us, here’s a list of our most recent reviews:

Customer Reviews of Feetus.co.uk

Lou H: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Fantastic service. Can not fault them as a company. Great on line advice, prompt postage, after sales care and discounts. Don’t hesitate purchasing from feetus.

David Turner: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Great service, speedy delivery and love the extras you get to, Thanks will use again.

Sam Cassidy: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

I initially received a pair of Vibram five fingers that I couldn’t get on because of my high arches. When I contacted Feetus and explained, they were only too happy for me to exchange the product. However, some time elapsed before I was able to post the shoes back for a replacement pair (lace ups) but they were still happy to help me out. I’m really grateful as I love my new lace-up five finger running shoes and can’t wait to start training for my next ultra marathon in them.
Thank you so much for the brilliant customer service – I’ll definitely be shopping with you again :).

Amita: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 4 / 5 / 5

I had ordered Vibram five fingers KSO shoes for my son. The responsiveness of Feetus team was exceptionally good. Team was always online to help me to resolve my queries, track the order and ensured that I will get the shoes delivered in less than 24 hours duration. The shoes were packed well along with the toffees :). Also the quality of shoes was very good.
Feetus is very trustworthy and responsible group. I would encourage people to buy sports accessories / shoes etc. Online from Feetus UK.

Karl Cushway: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

I remember talking to Lee before he opened his store and it was good to see someone who knew about the products he was selling. I’ve bought from him a number of times and will continue to buy from him in the future. There are some fantastic offers and you won’t be able to find shoes for a cheaper price, along with the advice and expertise offered to help you make the right purchase.

Zoma: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 4 / 5 / 5

I finally decided to jump on the minimalist wagon. I wanted to get my Vigrams from a recommended retailers. Feetus were absolutely brilliant. I received immediate confirmation of my order and within 2 days I was walking around in my new 5 fingers. Totally recommend this company. Super service.

Rhys Robinson: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Briliant customer service. Initial had some sizing issues with the Vibram SeeYa and Lee was fantastic in advising me in what shoe would fit my training needs. I should have phoned to start with but I am not use to such good service from a seller!! Ended up going with the Komodo, also bought some Red Venom calf guards and these are better than my Skins!! Would recommend to any one!

Jennifer Howland: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Great value – the cheapest I have found for a new pair of vibram’s. Dispatched quickly so far so good

 

FeetusOnTour

#FeetusOnTour : St Kitts and Nevis

At Feetus, we LOVE it when customers get in touch to let us know how they are getting on with their orders. We love it even more when they share photos with us!

Here are some photos to make us all go green with envy at, courtesy of top customer Chloé, who sent these lovely pictures of her Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport during her getaway in St Kitts and Nevis.

Wish You Were Here?
Wish You Were Here?
The Komodo Sports taking a well-earned breather in the Caribbean
The Komodo Sports taking a well-earned breather in the Caribbean
Greetings from St Kitts!
Greetings from St Kitts!

Thanks for sharing your photos Chloé. Enjoy your Vibrams and the rest of your holiday! 

Like the look of these ‘barefoot’ running shoes? Click here to check out the Komodo Sport.

Vibram logo

CQOTW3: Which Vibram FiveFingers for Every-day Use?

CQOTW: What type of model of Vibram FiveFingers can be used for every day use?

As with everything, this can all depend on personal preference. We all know that Vibram make some very quirky styles that are not for the faint-hearted (the Nizza!), and some outrageously bright styles (the SeeYa Day-glow); but they also make some models that are more relaxed, more socially acceptable, and less conspicuous. It is the latter that we will focus on for this week’s ‘Customer Question of the Week’.

The Vibram FiveFingers KSO

A lot of people enjoy wearing the KSO as a shoe that suits both running and lifestyle. This was one of Vibram’s earliest models and the sole is very thin, giving a great ‘barefoot’ feel.
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO
The Vibram FiveFingers TrekSport
Trek Sport is also a popular choice. The black colour-way is less conspicuous and therefore looks a little more casual than some of Vibram’s more ‘vibrant’ models (i.e. SeeYa). The Trek Sport features a more rugges sole, designed for those who enjoy getting out in the trails and/or do light trekking. Again, stock levels are poor (unless you are size UK10+) but more will arrive very soon.
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek Sport
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek Sport
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport (KMD)
The Komodo Sport is another style that looks more like an every day trainer. It features a lacing system and a sensible colour-way. This shoe is designed with the gym-goer in mind, and so the sole is not agressive at all, making it ideal for general wear.
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo (KMD) Sport (this version is the ladies)
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo (KMD) Sport (this version is the ladies)
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila
You may also like to consider the Bikila. Ideal for road running, for gym use, but many enjoy the Bikila as a casual trainer. The Bikila is a men’s bestseller for Feetus, and we stock this model in a variety of colours as well as Velcro and lace-up (Bikila LS) versions.
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS

Additionally… Vibram’s Spring/Summer 2013 (SS13) Collection is making its way to the UK very soon. This range cover the Trek Sport Sandal, EL-X, Alitza, plus more. You can pre-order yours now and we’ll have them shipped out to you via Special Delivery as soon as they come in! 

If there are any styles, colours, or sizes that we do not stock – please get in touch with us, and we’ll order them in specially for you (and offer them to you at the best possible price!)

And remember – be aware that there are counterfeit (fake) models out there. Make sure you buy genuine… Click here to see why. 

CQOTW: Vibram FiveFingers: Laces or Velcro?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post each week to our favourite customer question, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our inaugural CQOTW:

CQOTW1 – Vibram FiveFingers: Which is best, Velcro or Laces?

Vibram’s range of Velcro-fastening shoes are definitely the fastest and most versatile.

The KSO and Komodo Sport shoes have a Velcro that wraps around the heel and then fastens into place over the top of your foot. The Bikila and SeeYa range are more of a slipper-style (no rear strap), with the Velcro fastening over the top of your foot. Shoes that have just one Velcro strap such as the Bikila and SeeYa are less secure, albeit very slightly.

Laces are regarded by most as giving the most secure fit. Despite Vibram’s speed-lacing system, they still take longer to put on than a Velcro counterpart. Laced versions also offer slightly less ventilation, and have less of a barefoot feel.

A Personal Opinion

Personally, I prefer the Velcro versions of all Vibrams. This is because I have narrow feet and when I tie the laces, I feel that there is too much excessive lace (due to having to pull them tighter than normal).

If you have a normal width foot, or have wide feet, go with whichever – they will both serve you just as well.

Looks DO Matter

Taking in to consideration the above, consider looks. Which do you think look the best, lace or Velcro? That may just determine your final choice…

One final note

I have found that runners prefer laces, and gym-goers prefer Velcros. I have no scientific evidence for this, however, I think this is probably due to laces being a more conventional ‘look’ in running shoes, whereas gym-goers often like to look like they are wearing the latest trend – and Velcro, you could argue, looks a little more quirky and unconventional.

Here’s a handy table to help you find your perfect training partner:

Men

Women

Laces

Bikila LS (Black/Green)

Bikila LS (Blue/Grey)

SeeYa LS

TrekSport Sandal

Komodo Sport LS

Lontra LS

SeeYa LS

TrekSport Sandal

Komodo Sport LS

Bikila LS

 

Velcro

Bikila (Silver/Black)Bikila (Black/Red)KSOSeeYa

KSO TrekSport

Spyridon

SeeYa

Komodo Sport

KSO TrekSport

KSO

 

Any More Questions?

Feel free to drop us a line if you have a burning question. Who knows? It may just feature as our CQOTW!