I was given these products, free of charge or obligation, for purposes of this honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.
About Vibram FiveFingers:
Vibram FiveFingers® manufactures a performance product for running, fitness and outdoor sports. FiveFingers not only encourages a more natural forefoot strike during running, but also allowed the foot to move and work in a completely natural way, while providing grip and protection over a variety of surfaces. Running in Vibram FiveFingers requires a significant increase in lower leg and foot strength. A gradual transition is critical to avoid overuse injuries. For more information on making a safe transition please refer to their Barefoot Running page.
Max Feel, Earthly comfort!
My Review:
My son has wanted these amazing “Toe Shoes” since he first saw someone wearing them a few years ago. We were both super excited to get the chance to try FiveFingers new KSO EVO models. After reading all the information about letting our kid’s feet develop naturally, I realize I should have given in and bought him some years ago!
My son has worn his new Barefoot Toe Shoes all over the house for days and he even wore them to the grocery store (yes, there is still 2 feet of snow on the ground, but he still wore them.) He loves the way they make his foot feel. They feel supported yet barely covered but they are super-comfortable. Of course, his piggies got a little cold when he wore them outside. We love that they can be washed in the washing machine- he is an 11 year-old boy after all. The bungee cord laces with the velcro attachment help keep his toe shoes on without coming untied or loosen up.
The only problem he had with his is getting them on. We end up laughing because he can’t get his toes into the correct toe “holes” for the first five minutes. As with anything new, it’s a learning curve. The more he uses them, the easier it will be.
I had the same problem getting mine on. It is not as easy as it looks!
Here are some of my favorite features of FiveFingers KSO EVO footwear:
- They are lightweight- you barely notice you’re wearing them.
- They are made with Dri-lex- a moisture management system. This gives your shoes breath-ability.
- They dry quickly. Don’t be afraid to step in the puddles- your toe shoes will dry in no time!
- The come in fun colors!
- The lace system is easy to use and keeps your footwear on your feet properly.
- The FiveFingers website is LOADED with educational information about their products, your feet, barefoot running and more.
- They are machine washable!
- They make your feet and legs feel better after you have gotten used to the correct way to walk or jog. I can’t wait for SPRING so my son and I can take our 2 mile walks in our Toe Shoes!
I highly recommend FiveFingers Toe Shoes for anyone looking for a new and healthier way to spoil their feet! Feet are important and they deserve to be happy!
For more information on Barefoot Running, visit FiveFingers Education page.
About the KSO EVO:
Built on a platform that offers the best ground feedback in our line, the KSO EVO is one of three shoes that round out our newest category: MAX – FEEL. A reinforced upper and speed lace allows for easy entry and a snug fit while the zig-zag patterned sole provides grip and added flexibility in all directions. Feel more underfoot with more versatility.
These come in many fun colors in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Why we should let our children’s feet develop naturally?
In order to prevent foot deformities, it’s crucial to allow a child’s feet to develop naturally by avoiding rigid/ill-fitting shoes. (Barefooting is best it claims but sometimes not practical.) Boy’s feet aren’t totally formed from cartilage to bone until 20-21 and for girls it’s 18-19. So, minimalist footwear should be a part of their wardrobe ideally from the time they can walk right through their teens. Here is an introduction to a great article about natural foot development:
As a family physician, I firmly believe that children should play in their bare feet or in activity shoes that complement natural foot development and proper biomechanics of movement. Runners, walkers, coaches, and the medical community are all awakening to the benefits of allowing proper natural foot motion to occur in all of our daily activities.
Read the rest of the article HERE.