Quote:
Originally Posted by BTM
Vibram 5 fingers advocates seem to be similar to hybrid drivers, or Mac users. (Sweeping generalizations ahead!!! Guaranteed to piss someone off!!!)
Depending on a person's needs, they provide distinct advantages over the more traditional offerings. This is true with all products and is why not everyone buys the same products as everyone else. However, in those that choose these "alternative" offerings, which they do so because it fits their requirements, the owner somehow tends to develop a sense of superiority and look down upon those who utilize products with different characteristics more suited to their own needs.
Have a computer virus? Should've bought a Mac. They don't get viruses.
Gas prices going up? Should've bought a Prius. You can even put your Apple sticker on the back!
Joint pain when running? Should've bought "barefoot" shoes. Your Prius even has space in the trunk for them!
People wanna buy Vibrams go for it. The advantages for certain styles of runners are well documented. However, there is a very valid reason that not everyone runs with them, from the professional level down to your most basic amateur. The same reason not everyone has a Mac, or drives a hybrid:
Preferences |
You aren't going to see a competitive runner, or someone that was a competitive runner wearing these. Not that it makes it right or wrong, that's just the way it is. You'll see people newer to running wearing these because they are the 'new hot thing', but people that are really 'runners' know better (not to say that you can't get good use out of them in certain circumstances). They might have their place, but it's not a high mileage program.