Vibram Running!

Earlier in the month I mentioned that I picked up a pair of Vibram SeeYas after reading Born to Run.  After running with the Vibrams for three weeks, including one race and one 14 mile run, I'm ready to talk about it.

From the start, the Vibrams were fun for running!  I have never been a heel striker so my running form didn't change much by switching to the SeeYas.  During the first few short runs, I had some muscle pain along the outer edge of my feet but that has subsided.  Since these five finger shoes move with my toes, rather than my continually stubbing my toe against them, they do not cause black or damaged toenails as other shoes do.  I was pleasantly surprised that the Vibrams gave me no blisters.

During my 14 mile run with the shoes, I did notice the ball of my foot, where I first strike down, was more sore that usual.  That should be expected since the Vibram's have almost no padding.  The soreness didn't last after the run, and it wasn't enough to cut my run short.  I also found that during the long run I had some ab pain near my hips.  I suspect this was the result of straighter posture and having to extend my legs a bit further.  Again, the pain didn't stop me from running and it didn't last after I stopped so I don't think its an issue.

I often run through a gravelly park.  I can definitely feel some of the larger stones through the shoes.  It's not painful but not always comfortable either.  I suspect that the feeling isn't for everyone though.  I do find myself watching more carefully where I step to avoid sticks and stones that may hurt my feet.

Overall, running in my Vibram SeeYas has been great.  I love the almost barefoot feeling I get when wearing them.