Hiking the Rockies in Five Fingers KSOs

By Britt on Oct 6, 2010 | In User Stories | 1 comment »

Paul hiking in his KSOs
Paul hiking in his KSOs at Letchworth State Park

Paul, a Vibram Five Fingers fan, was able to compare hiking in his KSOs this past summer to previous hikes he had done in traditional hiking boots.

Read what Paul had to say about how his KSOs performed and see more great pics after the jump!

 

I just wanted to share how much I enjoyed hiking in my KSOs at Letchworth State Park, NY in July and the Rockies in August.

Photos from Letchworth:

Even though most of Letchworth's trails are pretty easy, I brought a pair of boots along just in case - but never needed them! My feet were fine. Climbing the steep incline in pic #3 was much easier with my KSOs than it was last year in hiking boots.

Photos from the Rockies:

Some of the Rocky Mountain trails can be a bit rough (pic #4). After a few minutes I was able to navigate the trails without watching my feet. I just had to be more aware of what I was doing. The increased control and connection to the terrain was well worth a few extra bumps and bruises.

My KSOs have gotten nearly daily use since I've purchased them about 5 months ago. I wear them for Crossfit workouts, walking, hiking, running, and just about whatever else I can. I used to hate running, but now I find myself going for a 12 mile run just for fun. My first KSO 5K was a PR by 1:18! I will be doing the Turkey Trot (8K) this Thanksgiving and plan to do a marathon once my feet are ready.

Paul

Thanks Paul, for sharing your hiking experiences and good luck on your running!

Read a previous Birthday Shoes post where JJ hiked the Rockies in her Bikilas.

About the Author — Hailing from College Station, Texas (Home to Texas A&M!), I grew up running cross country. Believe it or not, I gave Justin the name for this site back in early 2009 but I didn't jump on the toe shoes bandwagon until a year later. I am also really into quadcopters and drones and have a blog called OddCopter.com.
Britt has written 161 articles and 67 comments.

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Comment from: Roger Lerner [Visitor] Email
Roger LernerKSOs are great for hiking so long as the downhill terrain is not too steep or too slippery. The absence of "lugging" in the soles is a bit unnerving coming down steep slopes which are "powdery dry" or muddy.

Has anyone used the Bikilas for hiking? They have greater articulation in the outer sole and might solve the "slippery slope" problem.

FYI, the KSOs are great for running in grass or on blacktop. Also, amazing how the better balance and grip improves all gym exercises including heavy free weights.
10/12/10 @ 11:39