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

ASIN	B00BCO83AM
Arch Type	Flat
Best Sellers Rank	#133,247 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry ( See Top 100 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry ) #71 in Men's Cross-Training Shoes
Brand	Vibram
Closure Type	Pull-On
Color	Black
Cushioning Level	Minimal
Customer Reviews	4.4 out of 5 stars 3,133 Reviews
Fabric type	100% Polyester Mesh
Fit to Size Sentiment	Positive
Global Trade Identification Number	00847100030991
Has Shoe Adjustability	No
Heel Type	Flat
Insole Cushioning	Minimal
Insole Material	Textile
Item Type Name	Fitness Shoes
Item Weight	113 Grams
Manufacturer	Vibram Fivefingers
Manufacturer Part Number	13M0101_Black
Material Fabric	Rubber
Model Name	El-x-m
Number of Items	1
Occasion Lifestyle	Athletic Running
Occasion Type	Work
Origin	Imported
Outer Material	Synthetic
Outer material	Synthetic
Pattern	Plain
Seasons	Evergreen
Shoe Height Map	ankle-high
Shoe Type	Athletic Shoe
Sole Material	Rubber
Sole material	Rubber
Special Features	Lightweight
Specific Uses For Product	Sports
Sport Type	Running
Strap Type	Slip-on
Style Name	El-x-m
Style Number	16M0101
Theme	Athletic, Fitness, Running, Work
Toe Style	Closed Toe
UPC	844100330991 847100030991
Unit Count	1.00 Count
Water Resistance Level	Not Water Resistant
lining-description	Fabric

Vibram Men's FiveFingers EL-X | Barefoot Casual Shoes for Everyday Wear & Comfort

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