Review

Barefoot running is really taking off and training or weightlifting barefoot has been around a long time. The problem with training barefoot is that most gyms won’t allow it. Proper shoes need to be worn for obvious reasons.

I picked up my first pair of Vibram Five Fingers in 2009 after a colleague convinced me they would be good for my feet. As a personal trainer and strength coach, I understood the benefits of increased proprioception and balance so it didn’t take me long to get past the odd look of the shoe.

I wanted something plain so I went with the first generation KSO. Wow, they were light and surprisingly comfortable. They took a bit of getting used to, but eventually my feet adapted. The sole is designed to fit the contours of the feet and the mesh top is light and flexible.

What I found after my first full day of wearing them was that my feet had life. My toes wanted to move more. My feet were being used. The muscles were working much more. They were also quite tired. Due to that fact, I recommend anyone who wears them to take it slow. Start with an hour or two and work your way up to a full day.

I now use my Vibram KSO for everything. I especially like them at the beach. Keeps me from scratching up my feet on rocks and coral.

I highly recommend the KSO. The 2nd generation KSO has some nice new modifications for additional comfort. You can’t go wrong with Vibram in the barefoot shoe game.



About the Author

Rich Thurman MA, CSCS CPT
Native of San Francisco, Rich gained most of his experience as a personal trainer in the San Francisco Bay Area, working in physical therapy clinics, The Olympic Club and assisting the Head ATC at City College of San Francisco. Rich has a bachelors degree in Physiological Science from UCLA and a Masters degree in Sports Management from USF. Rich has traveled the world learning, growing and spreading his passion for nutrition, health and fitness. Rich is certified by the National Strength & Conditioning Association, (NSCA) as a Personal Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Coach. Rich offers Fitness Consulting & Personal Training, Body Transformation Bootcamps, Corporate Wellness and Sports Conditioning Training. Rich is primary author for The Fitness Library and has written for many other publications, magazines and blogs. In his free time, Rich enjoys reading, traveling, writing poetry, listening to music, lifting weights of course and Salsa Dancing.
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