Vibram first time....court shoes? (newb question)

[Jason111]

I am going to get some but I was wondering which ones you recommended?

I will mostly be using them for walking, badminton (court sports, lots of jumping and LANDING ON HARD FLOOR), weights and gym stuff but I want whatevers good. Also whichever aren't a hassle to maintain is a plus too.

Also I am a bit concerned about them smelling....do you have any advice on how to prevent smell and maybe some easy ways to keep them clean etc?

Any additional thoughts (buying tips and maintenance advice) appreciated!

-Jason
Bay Area, CA

[BearFooted]

I like the KomodoSport and KomodoSport LS for court use.  They have the best lateral traction.  I find I could get a more secure fit around the heel with the straps on the KomodoSport then the laces in the KomodoSport LS.  That sole really is the best at gripping flat surfaces and lateral cuts.  All of which are important for the badminton. 

[The Yeti]

I wear my komodosports for badminton and they are fantastic court shoes. My feet feel tired after a 3 hour badminton club meet, but they hold up just fine. I end up using the front half of my foot mostly. My heels only really hit the ground when I do a lunging reach for a net shot. As for smell, I just throw them in the washing machine after each week. They do get smelly but regular washes keep them somewhat fresh.

[Jason111]

I like the KomodoSport and KomodoSport LS for court use.  They have the best lateral traction.  I find I could get a more secure fit around the heel with the straps on the KomodoSport then the laces in the KomodoSport LS.  That sole really is the best at gripping flat surfaces and lateral cuts.  All of which are important for the badminton. 

Thanks all for the quick replies.

That's great I've felt most compelled about the KomodoSport LS....I kinda assumed that the laces would always be better especially because I am kind of a "tough fit". Straps seem easier though.

I guess the best way is to just try them on at a store? Anyone recommend any places to try on and or buy?

[BearFooted]

If there is an REI near you.  You can go to vibramfivefingers.com and look up retailers in your area.  call ahead and check to see if they have both styles to try on.  I would go with which ever one you find most comfortable.  I usually like the laces more but I found in the KomodoSport LS that he heel was slipping on me no matter how tight I got them.  So just see which one you like more.

[Horse Rider]

For smell just spray some rubbing alcohol (70%) in them after each use to kill the bacteria, then machine wash them with vinegar in the water regularly and they'll be fine.

[Stefanie]

For smell just spray some rubbing alcohol (70%) in them after each use to kill the bacteria, then machine wash them with vinegar in the water regularly and they'll be fine.

I used efferdent tabs yesterday, two for a sink full of hot water and my Bikila LS and my lifting gloves.  Worked like a charm.  I let them sit for a long time, then used a brush to scrub the inside of the shoes and rinsed really well.