http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2618513840043636321QsfytG
I've tried my VFFs on this terrain a few months ago and the Treks did pretty well although they can't hold up in the colder weather. This is why I had to find something else, which lead me to the 3.6 oz. Mizuno racing flats. The Mizuno's did awesome as I could feel all the rocks (even the ones that hurt a bit), terrain and ground (a very similar ground feel to the Treks).
I headed out on a 14 mile run and tackled all the most difficult mountain hills. Not only did my racing flats hold up great but I completed my easy long run at a PR pace for this terrain and elevation. These are definitely my footwear of choice and will replace my VFFs. I never thought I'd say that as I really like my VFFs but I get the same ground feel and the ability to use the racing flats in cold weather (I also don't have to switch back and forth between footwear, which I hate). This definitely was validation for me that you can run injury free in shods (at least some racing flats) and maintain the same form, technique, and cadence.
It seems like things are coming together as I enter my 3rd year of consistent daily/weekly/yearly running as my injuries have gone away (I was told by an elite runner that this would be the case but I didn't believe it initially). It makes me think about a quote from Jim Fixx:
"During my first two or three years of running, I suffered a lot of injuries. Then, mysteriously, the pain went away. Today, nearly a decade later, it is only infrequently that I feel even the faintest twinge of discomfort, and then a good run cures it. A beginning runner has to remodel his/her whole body. It can't be done overnight."
HHH
Very cool. What's the model of the Mizunos you are wearing?
ReplyDeleteMizuno Wave Universe 3. They are the lightest racing flats in the world (about 3.6 ounces). Here's some information on them:
ReplyDeletehttp://tinyurl.com/yzol92h
Sweet. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteAre you going to miss anything about the VFFs?
ReplyDeleteNiel, I miss the VFFs from the standpoint that Vibram as a company seems to really care about runner's, the impact of footwear on their bodies, and the like. They seem to have good intentions and I think they make a great shoe, footwear, or what we call it. I do hope they develop something better for cold weather. But, like many, I don't have the $ to try all these different types of minimalist footwear. But, I do believe that the search stops once you find something that works. It is so difficult to find the best shoe (I don't think there's a perfect shoe but the goal is to get as close as possible). I've spent a lot this year to finally find my best racing flat so I'm content.
ReplyDeleteBut, I really like the VFFs. I'm sure they are the "best" shoe for others and I'll recommend them to anyone.
HHH
I'm sure Vibram will release something in the future for the colder weather. The minimal footwear style has only recently begun to become popular and I would find it quite a shock if they didn't try catering to this growing population.
ReplyDelete