Much attention has been given to the idea of “Barefoot Running” since the publishing of the book Born to Run (most definitely worth a read, by the way).  And the Vibram 5 Finger Shoes have reaped great benefits from this latest trend.  If you were to pick up a Runner’s World shoe review issue just 3 years ago, Vibrams didn’t even make the cut.  Now an entire category of “minimalist” shoes is being featured – for good reason.  If you’ve not tried the Vibrams, they’re definitely worth checking out.  But do not make the mistake of suddenly switching over to them from your “normal” running shoes.  Rather, gradually ease into them, adding a few minutes each day and transitioning over 2-3 months to avoid injury.  These are not for everyone, but you will find yourself taking on a more natural and light toe-heel or midfoot strike, as compared with the classic heel-toe strike that occurs with the padded heels in most running shoes.  And if integrated gradually, this is a valuable change.  Personally, I’ve chosen to wear them at every opportunity EXCEPT running (and then running in a slightly more “shoe-like” minimalist shoe like the Nike Free or Brooks Pure).  This allows my foot to adapt, the intrinsic muscles of the foot to be strengthened, but not risk kicking a rock with a lonely toe on a trail somewhere and prematurely ending the season.