Buzz Lightyear Shoes

“Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

Buzz. Lightyear. Shoes. That’s what she said. Well, actually she said, “Look daddy--pointing at my green and silver Vibram Five Fingers--Buzz Lightyear shoes!” I nearly died laughing. Out of all the comments, questions, and flat-out stares my shoes have earned me, this particular interaction has had me smiling for weeks. The innocent girl's comment perfectly demonstrates one reason why I LOVE little kids; they have absolutely no tact, and it's adorable. Kids are also surprisingly good when it comes to forming their own opinions, and while I would hope that as adults we have learned to communicate more graciously, I sometimes worry that as a society we are losing our willingness to take a stance. 

For example, I run in VFFs, and it is kind of controversial. Do they look funny? Yes. Are they different than what you see most people wearing? Yes. Does that mean you shouldn't wear them? Not necessarily. Honestly, you should do your own research and form your own opinion, but since so many have asked, I thought I'd share mine: I love them! As a former gymnast, dancer, and diver, I've always liked the connection my feet have with the surface they're standing on, and running in these shoes feels amazing. I am hopelessly, head-over-heels, in-love, addicted to running in them. That's it! No biomechanics lecture here! 

I've jotted a quick summary of my thoughts on the subject, but for any other questions, a simple Internet search will return countless blogs and articles to support both sides of the issue. It's also a good idea to ask your doctor or physical therapist what shoes they recommend, based on your personal gait pattern. Happy Googling!

10 Reasons Why You Should Consider Vibram Five Fingers:

1. They are fun!

2. You will automatically develop a midfoot strike.

3. You will utilize and strengthen muscles in your feet and legs that may not be used in stiffer shoes.

4. You will have amazing control when going downhill.

5. Lacking padding, you can put more miles on them before you have to replace them.

6. You will not have to tie laces.

7. You will not get black toenails from rubbing in the toe box.

8. You will not have the same type(s) of injuries.

9. You can wash them.

10. They are fun!

In case you feel I am a little biased, here are some additional thoughts...

10 Reasons Why You Should AVOID Vibram Five Fingers:

1. You might be too fast.

2. You might look too cool.

3. Your running buddies might be jealous.

4. Your dream guy or girl might fall desperately in love with you. (They are SEXY!)

    

No, but seriously...

5. Your feet might smell like death.

6. You might find out that, in spite of your shoes, you suck at running.

7. You might forget to pick up your feet and shatter a few toenails, toes, your pride, etc.

8. You might pick weeds with your toes. (ANNOYING.)

9. You might get more attention than you would prefer.

10. LASTLY, you might have to make new friends because all you'll want to do is RUN! 

This week, trust yourself enough to be you! (And, here’s a hint: don’t try so hard.)