Bikila vs KSO for non-runner

[DataShock]

Hi all,

I have been considering a pair of KSOs for mostly casual wear.  Then I read about the Bikila.  I know it's technically a running shoe, but is there any reason why it wouldn't be a good casual shoe?  I'm wondering if it will be a bit cooler than the KSOs, and perhaps have better odor control.  I like the idea of a seamless build too.

So, for a non-runner, any thoughts on KSOs vs Bikila?

[dirkverelst]

yes, get KSO's, the sole is thinner

[Scoutleaderky]

I am not a runner either. I bought mine for the other outdoor activities (climbing, canoeing, climbing, kayaking, swimming) my son and I have KSO's my wife wants a pair of classics because she does not like the covering on the top of her foot. I think it is up to personal preference and you need to look at what other activities you might consider wearing them for. 

[BorisTerzic]

I can't see a reason why you couldn't wear them as everyday wear. Afterall I know lots of people who wear actualy runing shoes but never run in them. But I think the price will be a factor as I can see the Bikila being quite a bit more expensive. For the sake of cost, I'd say go with the KSO's.

[iamcam]

I'd say KSO's. I don't think the Bikila will be any cooler, it will have a bit of thicker sole, and you would end up spending 20-30 bucks more on it. I'd only say go with it if seamless is important to you, price isn't an issue, and possibly you like the look more or something.

[Barefootmagic]

I can see how they might be a bit warmer, but dont you think they might help if you live in a more urban environment? I mean with stone bruising and all. Maybe they might give more of a grip and last longer as far as the rubber on the sole goes.

[DataShock]

Thanks for the replies.  This is a new an interesting direction in footwear for me. 

I'm really interested in the barefoot feel, which from the sound of it, would be most evident with the KSOs.

As long as they don't wear out fast, I'm not too concerned about spending a bit more.  I'd rather spend a bit more if it means getting a better product.

If we ignore the extra thickness of the sole, are there any improvements with the Bikila that might make it an overall better shoe than the KSO?  Anyone know if there are improvements with odor control?  I don't have any first hand experience with these shoes yet, so I'm only working from knowledge gleaned from these forums.

[Hawkeye]

My only concern is about pods falling off the sole. I too prefer the KSo.

[iamcam]

My only concern is about pods falling off the sole. I too prefer the KSo.

I don't think that'll be an issue myself. Especially for someone not planning on running in them.

[innocent]

I would vote the KSO, been using the sample production Bikilas sine december and I can say those are for sports/running. Why KSO ?
1) traction. Laser cutted vibram rubber has amazing traction compared to Bikilas pods.
2) thinner sole (my ksos sole has lasted 800miles running )
3) price
4)multipurpose - i like To wear kso at work and at the woods, water.. Bikila is meant to other Stuff

hope this helps - whatever your decision its step to a more comfortable way of walking!

[Hawkeye]

I would vote the KSO, been using the sample production Bikilas sine december and I can say those are for sports/running. Why KSO ?
1) traction. Laser cutted vibram rubber has amazing traction compared to Bikilas pods.
2) thinner sole (my ksos sole has lasted 800miles running )
3) price
4)multipurpose - i like To wear kso at work and at the woods, water.. Bikila is meant to other Stuff

hope this helps - whatever your decision its step to a more comfortable way of walking!

Interesting. You would think that the bikila would have better traction than the KSO.

[DataShock]

Thanks again for the replies.

I decided to go with the KSOs, grey/palm specifically.

I went with the KSOs because I really wanted to have the barefoot feel.  I think they deliver that!  Its a rather strange sensation.  Going into the men's room for the first time was disconcerting! I had to keep telling myself that I did in fact have shoes on.   

I wore them to work the day I got them and freaked a few people out.  I work in a rather laid back setting, so no biggie.  I had a great walk to lunch and caught a few people checking out my feet.  I don't really care, but it did make me somewhat self conscious.  Meh, I'll get used to that.

Then it got cold again, so now I'm just waiting for the warm weather to return.

I went with the KSOs over the Classics or Sprints for a couple of reasons:

• KSO should keep stuff out.  I hate getting stuff under my foot and these would be more of a pain to clear than my Birks.
• To me, the open top look is rather feminine.  Now I'm a guy who is (more or less) secure in his manhood, and sporty though they are, they do look an awful lot like ladies flats. 

Thanks again to the community and big props to Mr. Owings and birthdayshoes.com.  I gave the URL to several people who asked about the shoes.

[Hawkeye]

Be careful of those puddles in public restrooms. VFFs are like sponges. 

[iain]

Be careful of those puddles in public restrooms. VFFs are like sponges.  

So true...

Make sure you check the thickness of the sole at the toes. It can be 1mm thick to 3 mm thick.

[Rana]

Be careful of those puddles in public restrooms. VFFs are like sponges.

Oh, gosh yes.  Ew!