I was curious about the toe shoe crave that’s going around. I have not been pro barefoot since a child so this was a big change. The move in my life to be more primitive and paleo-esque however led me to them. So while kicking around the Idea I came across a pair of Filia Skeletoes in a thrift store for $14. I tried them on and the fit like a glove…and were in my favorite colors too.
I got them In winter and had not had a real chance to test them out until recently. I have been using them at the gym for a few months now. I actually find them to be extremely comfortable. I’ve tried altering my running style to balls first instead of heels and can only maintain it for a short time. Im working on building that up to a longer time.
I love the minimal feel to the shoe. Really thin and flexible with just enough on the bottom to keep pebbles from hurting. The easy Velcro strap to secure them on. I’m hate laces to come untied while running. And even though I though I would hate the toes being separated I don’t mind at all.
They weather has gotten really nice and I decided that it was time to try the shoes on a real trail. Me and a friend Hiked five miles of very hilly terrain. The first part of the hike was a forest path with mulched parts and some dirt parts. I really enjoyed walking on the mulch and my feet were very comfortable. Probably the most comfortable they have ever been. The shoes are so light compared to hiking boots you can hardly feel them. I definitely had more spring in my step with them.
After the nice mulch was a rocky/ bare dirty steep hill. I was a bit worried at first about all the rocks thinking that they would really hurt through the thin sole. Once again though no problems. I noticed on uneven terrain my foot conformed to obstacles and gripped well. I felt natural for my feet and toes to grip rocks and trees to help keep balance.
The last part of the hike is a downhill paved section. This section began to cause me some hotspots. Nothing turned into blisters but I think they would have if the trail lasted longer. Maybe wearing socks with them would help. Or maybe asphalt is not the best surface for them. I know by the time we made it back to the car I was ready to get them off and rest my feet.
I still have much more testing to do but I sure that toe shoes are my go to athletic shoe. They feel natural and comfortable in the gym weather on a treadmill or lifting weights. I will gladly be wearing them out to more hikes. I want to see if blisters or hotspots will develop on all wooded paths. The added stability needs to be tested on much rougher paths where maintaining footing is crucial.
If you get a chance to try on a pair or come across a deal like I did grab them I’m sure you will not be disappointed.