Update 7/09/10: I just put up a post about my first run in the new Vibram Fivefingers Bikila. Check out my very preliminary Vibram Fivefingers Bikila review here.
It appears that Vibram is responding to the growing popularity of the Fivefingers line of “barefoot-like” footwear among runners by designing a new model that directly targets the running market. As reported on Justin Owings Birthday Shoes blog, the VFF Bikila, set to be released in early 2010, appears to be most similar to the existing VFF KSO. However, it features a number of departures from the KSO design – among the most noticeable are a redesigned, dis-articulated tread, a more traditional, padded lip around the ankle, and removal of the rear ankle-strap found on the KSO’s. Below are pictures re-posted (with permission) from Birthdayshoes.com:
The New Men’s VFF Bikila (from Birthdayshoes.com). Note the re-designed tread and padded lip around the ankle – both are big changes from the KSO’s that should enhance the VFF running experience.
What excites me the most about the Bikila is the redesign of the ankle-lip – I’ve had blistering issues on the back of my heel when running sockless in VFF KSO’s (since solved by wearing Injinji socks), and this redesign looks like it might solve this problem and allow for more comfortable sock-less VFF running. For more, view Justin’s post on the new Bikila at the Birthdayshoes.com, or view this post showing a video interview in which Vibram CEO Tony Post introduces the new VFF line.
Update 3/30/10 – Looks like the Vibram Fivefingers Bikila will be arriving in late April, 2010.
You can also read this post about my first impressions on running in the VFF KSO’s, as well as this post about the day after my first VFF long run.
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About Peter Larson
it’s too bad we won’t get it until next year though. I suppose my regular old VFFs will have to do until then.
would it be too girly to say that now that there is a pink version I want them that much more???
Heather – there is a Pink version of the Sprints available now – a couple of
my Twitter friend have them:
http://www.vibramfivefingers.c…. I tried to
convince my wife to get a pair, but not sure if she’s going for it!
Pete
I will be the first customer in line for this one. I am getting the hang out of it with my new VFF KSO.
These will be great if Vibram’s keep a full inventory of all sizes.
I’m hoping that they increase production as well – with the increasing
popularity of the VFF’s, it’s been hard for a lot of people to find them in
stock. – Pete