In the past week I’ve had the chance to give the Injinji socks and their Asia knockoff counterparts a try with the Vibrams. I also tried a short barefoot tabata run just to see. So below are the pros and cons I see with the different combinations.
Just VFF
Cons: I have the problem of possibly getting blisters from rubbing on longer runs. The shoes also tend to get the vibram funk much faster.
Pros: On the other hand it does feel more natural as far as barefoot feeling. Also given time I imagine the foot toughens up more this way. It’s cheaper than getting socks.
VFF + Injinjis
Cons: As people say Injinjis do take a little bit longer to put on. They also cost a lot for socks…I mean $8 for a pair? I’ve heard of issues with durability, but so far so good. Also…when it’s wet your socks get wet too which is not a great feeling.
Pros: Despite my worries they seem to fit pretty well with the Vibrams. The fit is a little tighter, but still reasonable. I’ve never gotten any of the normal blisters I might get when running w/o socks either.
VFF + China Toe Socks
Cons: It only comes in one length which isn’t horrible. Also…still not cheap @ $5 bux a pair. Still have the wet sock issue when it’s wet.
Pros: Actually very similar to the Injinjis. They’re a bit thicker, but still fit. Also no blisters.
Barefoot
Cons: Blisters will form pretty fast. Your feet will get tired really fast.
Pros: Can’t get more real than this. I’m sure this will toughen up your feet in a hurry. No blisters from Vibram rubbing either. It’s also way cheaper…no pricy socks or pricy shoes.
In the end it seems like any of these options are really viable. If you want to avoid some of the pricier addons it just requires a bit more patience and practice.