Basically I like to go barefoot, but cannot do so living in an urban environment. Obviously it hurts if you step on a sharp rock, especially on the heel, and can be dangerous if there is broken glass about. Also, you can't very well just waltz into any and all stores if you are barefoot because they don't seem to like it and have signs posted (No Shoes No Shirt No Service)... so I tried these shoes. I was lucky enough to live near a retailer so I was able to try on a few different sizes, which was great since my measurements put me between two sizes.
I love them. The first day I had them, I had to struggle for a few minutes to get my pinkie toe into the right spot but after that it got much easier. It truly is a liberating feeling, walking around outside, feeling somewhat barefoot but with the feet protected. I have read that people report improved posture and better arch-health (arch/foot pain diminishing, knee pain diminishing) with these shoes and I didn't believe it until i tried them. It's true, at least for me. I plan to start running in them soon- I use the ChiRunning method/POSE running so I already strike midfoot to forefoot and for that running style they seem to be pretty good. I'm not saying they are for everyone, but they've been great for me. I'd say that if you enjoy going barefoot and don't like wearing "flip flops" then definitely try them. If you prefer to walk in shoes, you may find them strange.
7 Month Update: Still loving them. I've increased my running mileage from 4 miles to 8 miles, with no loss in "per mile time" and no injuries, except for a small, slight stress fracture that I was working on anyway before I got the V5F's. I do recommend that you also buy some Injinji socks to wear with your V5F's, because those socks make the shoes fit that much snugger and so there's less chance of a hotspot developing on your foot. Still highly recommended.
Overall, I think they are a great product that is fun to wear, at least for people who enjoy going barefoot anyway. The $80 price tag seems fair to me as well, since I've spent that much or more on every pair of running shoes I've ever had. The only reason I didn't rate them 5/5 stars is because of the colors. Simple as that. Shallow I know, but there it is.
