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	B00BCO7WTK
ASIN	B0108T2TOW
Arch Type	Flat
Best Sellers Rank	#88,820 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry ( See Top 100 in Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry ) #51 in Men's Cross-Training Shoes
Brand	Vibram
Closure Type	Pull-On
Color	Black
Cushioning Level	minimal
Customer Reviews	4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars (3,163)
Date First Available	August 8, 2005
Department	mens
Fit to Size Sentiment	true to size
Global Trade Identification Number	00847100030939
Has Shoe Adjustability	No
Heel Type	Flat
Insole Cushioning	Foam
Insole Material	2mm EVA
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Item Type Name	Cross Trainer
Item Weight	4 ounces
Item model number	EL-X-M
Manufacturer	Vibram
Manufacturer	Vibram
Manufacturer Part Number	13M010139-001-39DE39E/7.5-8MDE39E/7.5-8
Material Fabric	Knitted material, breathable mesh, synthetic
Model Name	El-x-m
Number of Items	1
Occasion Lifestyle	Outdoor
Occasion Type	Work
Outer Material	Polyester
Pattern	solid
Platform Height	2.7 Millimeters
Product Dimensions	10 x 5 x 4 inches; 4 ounces
Seasons	Fall
Shoe Height Map	Low Top
Shoe Type	Athletic Shoe
Sole Material	Synthetic
Special Features	Breathable
Specific Uses For Product	Sports
Sport Type	Athletic
Strap Type	slip_on
Style Name	El-x-m
Style Number	16M0101
Theme	Sport
Toe Style	Closed Toe
UPC	847100030939
Unit Count	1 Pack
Water Resistance Level	Not Water Resistant
lining-description	Fabric

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

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Specifications

Common Questions