As to the female footwear being generally often minimalist - I fully agree; perhaps there is a cause-and-effect connection with my lack of "transition pain"?

Could be - I guess you ought be a step ahead of game if you are used to open shoes, "non-cushioned" footwear and regular bare footedness. I'm typically barefoot at home, and the rest of the time I wear shoes. I wear trainers (sneakers) for exercising really. I'm hoping I'll have a slight edge on the transition too.

reverting back to the "sitting around" chat,  I take my shoes off under the desk at work I'd imagine I'll do the same with the the vibes (when I finally get my hands on them). Only thing is I often nip to the toilet or coffee machine in my socks, I'd be less likely to do that bare foot. The more I think about it, I'm not sure why. I guess it's just a body part on show which people aren't used to seeing (on men). same principle as woman can wear mini skirts but I'd look a right tit turning up to work in gym shorts of the same length. Isn't it funny that women are accustomed to showing more flesh than men in everyday scenarios. minimal clothing is only acceptable for men in appropriate situations (sporting events, beach etc.) obviously this observation is restricted to my immediate cultural environment.

My VFF's have arrived at home and my wife took a photo and put it on facebook for a spot of communal mockery. Got some funny comments. Oddly enough the thin soled sandals my wife wears makes her, albeit unwittingly more of a minimalist than I am.

Hooray!  Can't beat a bit of scientific backup! 

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/01/100104122310.htm

I work in a safety mad environment but they've OK'd sandals inside office/accommodation areas as long as they have decent straps (specifically around the heel) I've just ordered my first pair of VFF's (sprints). I'm sure I'll be well scrutinized by the safety police but I'm confident I'll get away with it. there's no way they can condone open footwear and not allow my sprints (once they realize they aren't socks!) 

I have a pair of shorts with a little zip pocket under the waist band in the middle on the back, It's big enough to squeeze a compact camera in and the location means it doesn't bounce about. Perfect. Unfortunately I can't remember the make but I can check later if anyone is interested. 

I just ordered some sprints yesterday. I was going to get my mate to bring some back from Canada for me as they are loads cheaper ( I live in the UK) but I couldn't find a shop with much choice. In the end I've ordered some from Ebay. I'm hoping (probably in vain) that they are real - the photo makes them look genuine but now I look again the sole looks a bit different. Hard to tell! Any way perhaps I can get my money back if they aren't. fingers crossed!

Thanks Adam. I can't wait. although I'm a bit apprehensive, not about the running, it's the sharp bits that I'm worried about.

I imagine there will  be some funny looks too, as I've never seen a pair in the "flesh" myself so I doubt many others around my way will have either.

Hi folks,

Just saying hello, I've been pondering five fingers for a while now and finally took the plunge. hopefully they don't turn out to be fakes!

Looking forward to getting them on and building up confidence. I think I'm going to wear them generally and at work to begin with and then try them on the treadmill for a while before I take on the trails!

Very excited!