I’m considering the possibility of making this a semi-regular feature. I’ll post something I’m on the fence about and post a poll. Depending on how the vote goes, I’ll either do or not do said thing I am on the fence about.*
For this edition of Good Idea or Bad Idea I am debating whether or not to purchase and begin wearing a pair of Vibram Five Finger Shoes. What are these you ask? See the picture above. I think they could be a lot of fun. They closest place to buy them is in Bloomington, IN. I have to make a trip down there soon, so I will at least try them on. You can check out the product’s official page here.
Five Finger Shoes, Good Idea or Bad Idea?
- Go for it, buy a pair! (58%, 26 Votes)
- Seriously? Don't do it! (42%, 19 Votes)
Total Voters: 45
Loading ...- Here are some of the benefits:
- Increase arch strength
- Create better posture
- Eliminate Back Pain
- Lightweight
- Washable
- Fun
*No guarantees that I actually follow the advice of the internet poll.
If they’re comfortable, I would definitely go for it because they will help your posture and arch. I remember reading a story about how we don’t walk around barefoot enough anymore and that causes all kinds of medical ailments but I don’t remember where that was… Anyway, buy them if they aren’t too expensive.
Now that I’ve posted this any had a few minutes think about I’m not sure why I ever thought this was a good idea. Both getting these shoes and posting a poll online to let people decide whether or not I do something are both bad ideas. This is my brain trying to punish me for all the LSAT studying I’ve put it through.
I should add that they run $80-$100.
Ugly. Thats all I go to say – but the question is functionality vs style. So do the perks outweigh looking stupid? I dont know, I agree with lee and science (SCIENCE!) that we’re probably doing a lot of harm in the long run to our bodies, but I wouldn’t personally wear em out of the house.
Is poll #2 going to be the piranha tank that you lobbied for 4 years?
That is a possibility…I’m glad you haven’t forgotten that.
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Are you kidding?! That’s a great idea! If they are comfortable and functional I would go for it. If they could make an athletic shoe that is similar, I would buy a pair. Running shoes like that would make sense and for basketball, there would be no denying the appeal of a light weight bball shoe. I might get a pair for myself. Thanks!
Read “Born to Run” by Christopher McDougall. He makes a great argument for why the human body functions better without thick soled shoes. I used this book to motivate myself to pick up running for stress relief, weightloss, and other obvious health benefits. I picked up VFF’s in an attempt to make running as fun as possible (I hate running, but don’t want to throw down money for a mountain bike.) After 3 weeks of jogging, I’m extremely happy with my purchase. Granted, it does take some time to find the right form for running barefoot (or with VFF’s), and pavement can be a little tough. Don’t push it in the beginning because if your foot is anything like mine, the muscles are underdeveloped, and not used to life outside of a cushy sole.
Because of these shoes, my perspective on running has done a 180. Here’s the things I like best about enjoying the outdoors in VFF’s:
- Joint pain has decreased tremendously due to reduced heal strikes
-The tactile experience of walking on grass and earth provides a new dimension to appreciate, especially after running on pavement.
-The VFF’s provide enough padding to avoid pain from small rocks, but you still learn how to adjust your step when felt.
-Machine Washable (no more smelly tennis shoes)
-strengthen feet muscles, balance, agility, and quickness (after 3 weeks, I’ve lost 9 lbs, and developed strength in my calves, and flexibility in my ankles.
Notice that I didn’t mention looks. Yeah, they’re strange looking, and people do notice, but if you’re wearing them outdoors for your health, then who cares. Again, read “Born to Run” because it will help you answer the endless list of questions from curious obververs you run into. If you decide to purchases VFF’s, I’d recommend the originals if you expect to use them mainly for walking, or the KSO’s if you plan to use them in multiple settings (rock climbing, hiking, jogging, water sports.)
Here is a link to the book mentioned in the previous comment in case anyone is interested: http://www.amazon.com/Born-Run-Christopher-McDougall/dp/0739383728
In a few days I have to run down to Bloomington, I am going to at least check out the shoes and try a pair on, I’m undecided on whether to buy them or not.
I just bought my first pair last week (I got the KSOs) and they’re great. You have to be prepared for a lot of questions and crazy reactions from everyone you know, but they feel glorious.
Then again, I live in a small town, I hike a lot, and spend a lot of time outside. If you don’t then it might be a mistake.