However my 2nd toe is longer than my big toe so I found none of them fit very well. Still on the look out for something similar that fits better.

* The muscles in the feet get stronger.

* The gait changes from heel-strike to midfoot-strike so there’s less slapping-the-concrete.

* Body fat diminished. The soles of your feet do a good job at reminding the appetite centers that there’s a tradeoff between carrying an extra 9000 calories in the form of 1 kg of fat.

That’s exactly what I use them for, although my feet do ache after about 20km/4 hours. It takes some time to get your feet muscles built up, so it might be a good idea to pack your light shoes on initial walks, just in case your feet can’t handle it.

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I agree that unisex isn’t the way to go. Linda can’t find any that fit her. However the toe pockets are all OK with me now after a little initial discomfort. Everyone’s foot is different, so they’ll never be able to mass-produce something for all feet.

I just read a good first-hand account of the Vibram KSO (Keep Stuff Sh*t Out) model. It’s here. He’s raised some good concerns too.

Building up a thick layer of skin is certainly a good option, but outside of NZ I’m freaked out (and disgusted) by the amount of broken glass and other rubbish in national parks and along walking trails. These seem to be a good medium.

If they don’t have any other protection other than the vibram skin then they do seem to be of limited use and support and are perhaps just a way for Vibram to use their patent before its expiration without splitting profits with any other shoe company.

I hold of getting a pair for the time being, I certainly don’t think they would be suitable for Parkour as I have seen it suggested.

Thank you for pointing me to this review, it’s very informative.

I wonder about the toe length most of all. I can also see where the lack of half-sizes would be an issue.

And they ARE expensive. In the US, they’re $70 which is the price of a good pair of shoes for me. I’d hate to spend that much and then find they won’t work for me.

Happy travelling!

I think you need an iTunes account in order to leave a review. An option just appears for us.

I hope Kyoto treats you well! Are you teaching there?

(btw the folks at zombie are the fastest ship ever–almost as fast as five fingers)

How are you using light wool socks?

Thanks for your feedback! Great. I’ve done a few off-road daywalks in them, but we’re just about to try our hand at the West Highland Way – the first real tramp I’ve done in about 18 months (the Queen Charlotte Sounds was last). I’ll let everyone know how they go!

good review.

I really don’t understand why they’re not easily available in NZ or Australia since they fit the lifestyles so well. Come on Vibram!