"Barefoot" Footwear

Review: Vibram FiveFingers Bikila

By Al Gauthier ⋅ June 23, 2010 ⋅

Review – Vibram FiveFingers Bikila
A running-specific FiveFingers Model

Overall impression
What can I say, Vibram is starting to seem like a company that can do no wrong – and the new running-specific model of FiveFingers, the Bikila, is another great example of a use-specific model that does a great job of providing the most barefoot-like experience (this time for runners) while still wearing a shoe.

At first glance, the Bikila is reminiscent of the FiveFingers KSO, however, upon closer inspection it is really quite a different design. The fabric surrounding the collar and topline is slightly padded and softer than that of the KSO. It is also higher at the back to prevent heel slippage and provides a better grip for getting into the shoe. Overall, there is more of a sense of structure. This structure, combined with new materials, provides a secure fit around the foot while running. This, of course, decreases the chance of blistering. The heel represents the most obvious change where the cup holding the heel rises above the height of the rest of the shoe and the added structure creates a secure fit. The sole has also changed dramatically.

Comfort
The fit of the Bikila is snug, but pleasantly so. The materials are similar to that of the KSO but softer to the touch and with added padding. The snug fit decreases slippage while running and thus helps to prevent blisters and hot spots. The heel is well supported and the material and the design surrounding the heel of the foot is new. It appears that much attention has been paid to the small details of the design. This is as comfortable a running/training shoe that you will find. It is interesting to note that while I would place the Bikila in the same category for comfort as the KSO, the redesign and snug fit make for a surprisingly different feel. There is no doubt that the design has been altered significantly. While I loved the Bikila for running, if I wanted to spend a casual day in my FiveFingers I would be more inclined to put on my KSOs. The more relaxed fit of the KSOs make for a better casual walking shoe, while the new additions and snug fit are perfect for running.

Flex / Sole
The sole has been redesigned for the Bikila. It is a thicker sole overall allowing for a slightly less sensitive feeling over terrain but arguably allowing for greater flexibility in terms of running surface. The 4 mm outsole has a new grippier surface made up of 41 raised and textured sections. This pod-style outsole allows for better grip and, in my experience, better water repellents. For those new to the FiveFingers lineup of shoes, and minimalist shoes in general, the Bikila is an excellent starting point.

Support / Insole
Departing from previous models, Vibram has chosen to use a 3 mm polyurethane insole, thickest under the ball of the foot. The more structured design of the Bikila gives a sensation of support under the arch. I didn’t find this at all unpleasant, but it was noticeable.

Barefoot Feel
Those used to the Sprint, Classic, and KSO will find a reduction in the sensitivity or barefoot feeling of the Bikila. The sole is thicker and the grippy pods on the outsole add additional thickness and decrease the direct contact with the ground. The Bikila is very flexible, but less so than the Sprint, Classic, and KSO models. Those that are not used to the FiveFingers lineup will likely find the Bikila remarkably flexible while those who compare to previous models will find a slight reduction in ground feel. For a running-specific model, this added thickness will allow for a little more surface flexibility for some users while others may find the decreased sensitivity a strike against the shoe. Where you stand depends on many factors and your personal taste.

Breathability
The Bikila breathes well. Sweat is wicked away though the padded material and moves well through the thinner material covering the forefoot. They are comfortable shoes to wear while running and provide an infinitely more comfortable environment to run in when compared to a traditional runner/trainer.

Water Resistance
As with all FiveFingers models the Bikila is not waterproof. The added thickness of the sole does provide improved protection when running on wet pavement when compared with the Classic, Sprint, and KSO. However, standing water will find a way in during prolonged wear in wet weather.

Quality of Materials / Manufacturing
As with all Vibram FiveFingers models, the attention paid to the quality of workmanship and the quality of materials make for a very well-made product. New fabrics have been used in this design and as usual, Vibram has chosen very carefully in order to make the most out of these running-specific shoes. The sole is of a new design and the materials used in the upper all appear to be new.

Sizing
The Bikilas seem to run true to size for my feet. I wear size 44 in KSOs and Treks and the Bikilas feel like a very good fit at this size as well. Expect a more snug fit due to the design of the shoe. Because of the snug fit some may find the need to go up a size, but I suspect this will be rare.

Price
The Bikilas are priced at $100 USD. For the quality of this product, and when compared to the cost of typical big name running shoes, this is an excellent price.

Style
The style is quintessentially FiveFingers with a little bit of running shoe DNA thrown in. The pod design of the outsole is rather attractive I think. It is important to note that Vibram has added reflective surfaces to this design, which is a welcome addition for a shoe that will so often be used by runners in the early mornings and late evenings. Also of note is a redesign of the Velcro fastening system. The hooks and loops have been reversed to avoid the accidental catching on clothes. New also to this design is a tear resistant TPU toe protection. This clear material covers each toe where toenails would be found. While I have never had the problem, I have seen several FiveFingers models that have first shown wear in this area. I suspect the material has been added to avoid premature wear over the toes.

Break-in Period
As with all FiveFingers models there should be no break-in period. Materials used in this shoe will allow some flexibility for different foot shapes, however, if the shoe doesn’t fit when you first put it on, it will not fit better over time. Special attention should be paid when fitting yourself for Bikilas. The new design is very snug and trying a pair on in person is always a good choice.

Shoe Care
In keeping with the wonderful easy-care tradition of all FiveFingers models the Bikila is machine washable. As these shoes are often worn without socks this is a very important feature.

Summary
Vibram has, without any doubt, put out another winning product in an ever increasing line-up of products. Capitalizing on the growing trend of barefoot running, this is a very well-placed product in the current market. The added padding in the ball combined with a more structured fit and the many running specific design changes make this a worthwhile purchase even if you already own a pair of FiveFingers.

The slightly thicker sole and structure under the arch will appeal to an even greater audience of runners without compromising the features that FiveFingers fans love so much. Bikilas, perhaps more than previous FiveFingers models, may be the perfect gateway shoe for those who may eventually become addicted to barefoot running. For those happy to stay in shoes they are an equally excellent choice.

More than anything, I respect the time and effort that Vibram has put into developing products that are a direct result of listening to customers. While most shoe companies develop “technologies” to solve problems that customers didn’t realize they had, Vibram listens to what customers really need and want and finds unique and innovative ways to find solutions.

Bikilas are sold through Vibram’s network of dealers and can be found in stores catering to specialized running shoes. Note that because of the market for these shoes, you may find Bikilas in stores that would not otherwise carry FiveFingers models or you may find that stores that normally do carry FiveFingers do not carry Bikilas. Visit the FiveFingers website to find a location near you.

Buy Vibram FiveFingers at these quality online retailers:

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As you read our reviews, please keep in mind that our reviewers review shoes in terms of their suitability for those looking to find the highest quality minimalist shoe products. All reviews are as factual as possible. In an effort to be transparent and ethical, we will point out any defects found, even if these do not affect the usability of the product. Not all defects will be present in final production shoes as we are sometimes offered “seconds” or pre-release products in an effort to provide you with reviews in a timely manor. In the event that serious issues are found with a review sample we will give every opportunity for the manufacturer to replace to explain the review samples before the final review is released. We never accept payments for reviews. We do not guarantee a good review for any products sent to us. We do not review products that do not claim to be minimalist or “barefoot like” unless we receive a significant number of requests from readers or listeners.

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Tags: bikila, Fivefingers, review, Vibram

Discussion

29 comments for “Review: Vibram FiveFingers Bikila”

Facebook comments:

I’m a happy owner of a VFF KSO, but I have just one minor complaint. They are weird looking for most people already, so looks should not be top priority, but comfort must. Why not evert the seam stitching?

I’ll explain. You stitch 2 pieces of fabric together you have seam allowances. As minimal as they can get, they have some bulk and rub against the skin. This could be eliminated simply by turning it “inside out.” It would look odd? Bad finished? It’s not important. Fit is.

Posted by Erik | June 25, 2010, 11:27
I love this model and definitely going to buy one for my girlfriend. I bought mine last Friday, VFF Classic. I love going to the beach and use it as an aqua shoes. I don’t really like swimming without wearing them on because I might step on something painful.lol. Anyway, here’s a detailed review on VFF Classic – http://barefootrunningshoes.org/2010/06/24/long-term-vibram-five-fingers-classic-review/

Posted by Mark | July 6, 2010, 16:36
I just ordered some KSOs and can’t wait to get them. I was hesitant to buy them but I really can’t find one bad review about them anywhere, so I decided to go for it.

Let’s hope they work for me!

Ken Rogers
Real. Effective. Fitness.

Posted by Ken Rogers | July 14, 2010, 02:14
I own the KSO, and i find them to be awesome, i use them for running, climbing and treking. the only complaint is that i have gone through 3 pairs of them. I got the correct fit for me, and i keep getting a dime size hole on the top of my big toe….im not sure why this is and no one can give me a good answer as to why it happens, i am currently outside of the 90 return policy, and am waiting for the Bikilas to get deilivered to the store closest to me…..

Posted by Dan Kulowiec | July 14, 2010, 05:19
Hi Dan. We’ve seen this before many times. The Bikila does have a clear plastic reinforcement over all toes and it is assumption that this is to avoid this problem. When we next interview the team we will male a point of asking them about it.

Posted by Al Gauthier | July 14, 2010, 06:38
I’m in Europe and I just managed to get a pair of Bikilas shipped through a friend in the US. They feel fantastic but to my despair I noticed the rubber is detaching from the upper part of the shoe after my first run. I’ll try to fix it using superglue or something but i would have liked to avoid this as I can’t see myself shipping them back to the US. If you have any ideas how to fix this problem I’d be happy to hear about them.

Posted by Sleipner | July 28, 2010, 06:39
Sorry to hear about your trouble! I will contact Vibram for you and see if they have any recommendations for you!

Posted by Al Gauthier | July 28, 2010, 07:13
I purchased the Bakila this afternoon and hit the pavement for a 7 mi run this evening. I’ve been running in Asics for several year but recently when to Teva sandals (yes, inspired by “Born to Run”) so I was somewhat prepared for the transition. Funny thing, from the get-go, the Bikila’s reminded me of the feeling I had running in flats back in college. Light, clean and free. I’ve read the blogs and was prepared to do only 2 miles but they felt so incredibly comfortable i kept going. Before I knew it, I hit the 5 mile mark and not an ounce of discomfort or uneasiness. At the end of mile 7, I felt like I could have gone another 7. Why this is so incredible is because I strained my Achilles in march and again in May and I’ve been reluctant to push but these felt so comfortable, so natural that the thought of holding back never occurred to me. These will be my go to shoe and I plan on using them at Ironman Lake Placid next July!

Posted by Kevin Verow | August 24, 2010, 11:50
Hi Kevin,

It’s always exciting to hear about someone who discovers the joy of a more barefoot style of running. I know I love my Bikilas. I wanted to mention, even though you were not asking for the advice (but for the greater good of our readers), that although you felt no discomfort running 7 miles right away, I would strongly (very strongly!) recommend a more gradual approach to easing into wearing a new shoe. No matter how great they feel, your feet may not be used to the new strains and stresses that come from wearing a minimal shoe. You may in fact have no issues at all, and many do not, but in general it’s best to be cautious rather than create an injury. It can not be understated that feet that have not had the opportunity to ease into barefoot or minimalist running will need to work up to longer runs. Remember, there are muscles, tendens, and ligaments that are being used in a whole new way. Imagine for example that you never use your arms for heavy lifting, and then once every 5 years you move your home and lift boxes for 2 days. At first it doesn’t fel like anything is wrong, but the following 2 or 3 days can sometimes be very hard as your body recovers. Stresses don’t always show themselves immediately. Stay on the safe side and avoid injury that may keep you from the wonderful sensation of natural running! Thanks for sharing your storey with us!

Posted by Al Gauthier | August 24, 2010, 17:00
I just bought my first pair of Five Fingers yesterday and went with the Bikila model. I am really excited about running in these shoes especially since I have been having issues with my running shoes causing shins splints and then pain in the arch of one foot. My acupuncturist swears by Vibram and barefoot running and he feels all my pain is due to the traditional running shoe. Any advice or plans for “breaking” my feet into the barefoot running routine??

Posted by Shannon K | August 27, 2010, 23:59
Hi Shannon,

It’s great to hear from you.

Running in FiveFingers, or running barefoot (which I would encourage you to try even if you end up not liking it) is almost always an exciting time for runners. There is a sense of freedom, agility, and nimble footedness. It is such a wonderful feeling that almost everyone overdoes it. It’s great to hear you question the transition before you have started to use the shoes.

Consider for a moment how complex your feet are. Now consider how supported they have been for all your life. Now consider that you are completely changing the way you run and interact with the ground, and that those chains not only affect your feet, but also your legs and the rest of your body.

I can not understate how important it is that you ease into using FiveFingers. This is not to say that they are in any way dangerous, but if you have been running in traditional shoes until now, you will be using and stretching the muscles, ligaments and tendons of your feet and legs in ways that they have never been stretched before.

Because of this I suggest you start very slowly. For the first few days, start with walking in Bikilas, or walking barefoot – your choice. Walking is different than running but it will give your feet a little bit of time to move more naturally and to get used to not having a heal. On the first day walk only a short distance. If there is no discomfort the following day you can increase your distance until you are able to walk for a mile or two without any discomfort. You’ll know if you have overdone it if you feel any pain or sorriness. Bring regular shoes with you as you do this and if you start to feel uncomfortable than switch over right away for the rest of the walk.

When you are feeling comfortable then start to run a little bit. Run only for very short intervals and walk the rest. Use a regime that you would use if you were a new runner working up your strength for the first time. For example on the first run you might run for 30 seconds and walk for 2 minutes, and repeat.

Gradually increase your running time. Always stop if you feel pain.

This is a very simplistic description, and there are many different views on how to best start off running. We have reviewed several excellent books on the topic, all of which I would highly recommend as great reading.

The key is not to do too much too soon, and to always stop when you feel pain. I guarantee you’ll find it difficult – running in minimalist shoes and running barefoot is a wonderful and surprisingly different sensation to running in traditional shoes.

Have fun and keep us posted with your progress.

Posted by Al Gauthier | August 28, 2010, 08:03
I like Erik’s idea of turning the seams inside out.

Otherwise, I have the impression that this review of the VFFs Bikila is biased. The only negative point they found was that you wouldn’t break them in, so you should be sure they have to fit by try several sizes on.
Well, I just tried them on but could find a number of issues in this model not mentioned in this review:

Vibram has reduced the relative length of the toe compartments in relation to the total foot length in comparison to previous models. The most likely reason: esthetics (marketing).That way Bikilas will look less weird to new undecided customers. Vibram tried to make Bikila look like regular running shoes than any of their previous models and accomplish that purpose they have to give way to some trade-offs and more than questionable solutions.

Unlike all the previous models, there’s no rear strap nor any other adjustment system in Bikilas. The presence of such strap didn’t appear to have caused an obvious discomfort in those owners who usually run in Sprints, KSOs, KSO Treks, TrekSports, Flows and so on. Regular shoes don’t need to snug adjustment at the back because they rely on the structure of the vamps and the sole stiffness to brace the foot and move with it. In contrast, other FiveFingers were intended to fit like a glove, without any kind of structure, the structure was exclusively given by the foot. This meant they have to fit snug all around the foot to minimize shoe movements and going off the foot.

To solve the absence of a specific rear adjustment Vibram resorted to the same solutions applied by regular running shoes manufacturers: they increase the structure of the rear vamps around the heal, made them taller, built a thicker and more rigid sole and a made them fit snug to prevent lateral movements and the heel going out.

The requirement of a snugger fit together with shorter and smaller toe compartments would necessarily make the shoe uncomfortable to wear (specially with socks) for those whose foot shapes weren’t within the narrow limits allowed for that purpose. To bypass such constrain they opted to make a shoe with a inner lining smooth enough to be worn without socks. The down side was that the fiber used is hardly breathable and hot to wear in the hot season and warmer climates.

Posted by Zephyr | October 5, 2010, 04:08
Hi. Thanks for your point of view. Our reviews are never more positive than we experience. We pride ourselves on being accurate and truthful. Without the trust of our readers we would be lost.

Having said this our reviews are based on our experiences and those experiences can be different from people with other points of view and who have different foot shapes.

Your point that Bikilas are somewhat stiffer and less adjustable are well taken. Thus fit is even more important in Bikilas than most other FiveFingers.

Posted by Al Gauthier | October 5, 2010, 05:51
These are hands down the best minimalist running footwear that I have run in! I have the evo’s as well but they don’t hug my foot as well as the Bikila’s. Ran 5 miles this morning and literally had to tell myself to stop so I don’t over do it (for me that’s a lot). It has been a long tough road for me while trying to transition to a more “barefoot” running form but I’m so glad I stuck with it! I actually look forward to each run now. Amazing!

Posted by Todd | October 17, 2010, 03:40
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Posted by The 2010 Minimalist Shoe Holiday Gift Guide | Living Barefoot | December 16, 2010, 21:36
I couldn’t disagree more with these reviews. I waited 8
months for my Bikilas, and I wanted so much to love them. I was so
excited when they arrived. BUT they are INCREDIBLY hard to put on.
I spend 5 minutes wrestling with these shoes every time I want to
put them on. Consequently after about a month I’ve given up, and
they mostly sit and gather dust while I run purely barefoot or in
my running shoes – they are THAT bad. And to make it worse, they
are a tight, hot box that causes sweat like nothing else. My
friends asked me not to bring them to their house anymore because
they make my feet sweat so bad it’s like a sewer. My wife puts the
shoes outside – that is, until I stopped wearing them because of
the problem above. My wife wears Vibrams. We’re a Vibram family.
But honestly, they should pull this shoe off the market. It’s a
horrible device of suffering.

Posted by Matt | December 20, 2010, 23:54
Hi Matt,

Thank you for sharing your experience! The trouble with feet is that they come in so many varieties! The fabric is certainly less forgiving if the fit is not good. They are meant to be snug to avoid slipping. I would say you have the wrong size, or perhaps the Bikilas are just not the right shoe for your foot.

In regards to the smell, have you tried washing them? The other thing that has worked for me with smelly shoes is to put them in a bag with baking soda over night. Does wonders for smells.

Posted by Al Gauthier | December 21, 2010, 05:34
Whats all the talk about ‘weird looks’? i’m not a runner (though that might soon change!)- I got the fivefingers solely because they look so cool and different! how bout that?

Posted by Vik | December 31, 2010, 01:31
i have the sprints and i have had them for a long time but i just started running in them . i run 5 k all the time and half marathons plus run everyday long distances! i have had a problem with them hurting the bottom side of my foot opposite of the arch! what to do about this! i need a really good pair of shoes for running been trying to decide if i should get the bikilas or not but after my feet hurting i am not sure what to do!!! please help! i love vibram five fingers!!!

Posted by sinda | January 31, 2011, 05:33
Hi Sunda,

Fivefingers are of course very different than running in other commercial running shoes.

First, never continue to run if you have pain. Pain is a signal from the body that something is wrong. You say you have just started running in them. Give them a little more time by waiting until you have no pain and then starting very slowly. You should pretend that you’ve never run a mile in your life and transition very slowly to Fivefingers. The rewards can be very great, but nit allowing your feet to adjust can be problematic.

Bikinis are different than Sprints, but in subtle ways that may not make a difference to the pain you are having. I would suggest sticking to your sprints until they are comfortable before you invest in Bikilas.

Running in Fivefingers is an investment in time fir many people.

Good luck and let us know how you do!

Posted by Al Gauthier | January 31, 2011, 06:35
Hi,
I really need some advice for choosing between Bikila and Treksports.
I have not anything VFFs shoes.

I looking into perfect shoes for running, hiking, traveling, everyday walking and any outdoor.
Comportable is very important. So sole cushion to protect my foot is needed.

Could you recommend all purpose shoes in Vidram?

Posted by Min | May 25, 2011, 10:43
Hi, thanks for sending us a message.

You mention a sole cushion. Vibram FiveFingers don’t have cushion built into them. They a minimalist shoes, and like all true minimalist products there is no cushion under foot. From what you’ve said I don’t think we can recommend a product.

Posted by Al Gauthier | May 26, 2011, 22:28
I purchased a pair of bikila LS VFF’s over the holiday week-end. I am in love. It took a couple of days for my feet and the fivefingers to get use to each other but they are now both happy.
My reason for wearing fivefingers, bikila’s are more utilitarian than running. I have wide feet and could never find a shoe that fit right all over. Until now. I use them for gardening in the herb fields and working in the orchard (just an acre.) I have a tendency to work barefoot and have experienced many foot injuries (with rocks, roots, thorns, shovels, etc.) in the past. My bikila’s are now safe gaurding my feet, while giving me the barefoot comfort that I desire.
I have one minor concern; I have noticed that the yellow lining (where it meets the black material) on the inside of the shoe appears to be seperating. On the right it is lifting slightly (enough to insert a finger)on both sides. On the left, just on the instep. If this is normal breaking in, OK. I just want to know if I should be concerned. If this is not normal what should I do?

Posted by Robert Mendez | June 3, 2011, 08:14
Hi Robert,

It’s great that you are enjoying Fivefingers so much. Thanks for posting your comment.

I’m having trouble visualizing what is going on when you write about how the yellow materials is separating from the black. I will send you an email so that you have my contact information. If you are willing to take a photograph and send it to me I would be grateful.

In terms of what to do about problems (and I suspect what you describe is probably not normal), I would contact the retailer your purchased the shoes from and send them photographs along with your explanation. So long as the problem is not considered to be from abusive use of the shoes and the time frame that the problem has appeared within isn’t unreasonable than I would expect that they would be replaced. If thousand route is not successful I would contact Fivefingers directly with an account of your attempt to resolve the issue directly with the seller.

Let us know how it goes!

Posted by Al Gauthier | June 3, 2011, 09:12
I have been running in Bikilas for about a year now. Before that, I had a pair of Vibram Flows; I also occasionally run in a Merrell Trail Glove (that I like more than the reviewer here did) and Zems.

The Bikila is my favorite shoe ever. It sizes bigger than the Flow and feels much less substantial–a good thing for a runner.

I have no problems with slippage on the heel. I have wide feet with somewhat flat bottoms, if that matters.

The relatively thick sole of the Bilila lets me run on trails, but the sole design gives me excellent flex. I carry them with me when I go on barefoot trail and road runs, and here’s what happens when I put them on after running barefoot for a few miles:
- I lose a little bit of toe splay, but that happened more with the Flow. This is an issue with all shoes, and with the Bikila, it’s less of an issue than with any other shoes I’ve worn.
- Of course, I lose the ground sensation, but ground feel is still very good, especially in the midfoot. The padding on the ball of the foot initially gets me running very fast after being barefoot, but I’ve learned that this is because I’m landing harder to make up for the loss of all that direct contact, so I lighten my step consciously. I get better ground feel with the Zem original, but that one isn’t meant for running and is nowhere near as durable, nor does it fit as well.

I’m one of the lucky ones for whom the Bikila fits just right. Don’t buy a pair without trying it on first.

Posted by Al N. | July 15, 2011, 03:03
Problem has completely been resolved by both Vibram and my local store…..back to 100% satisfaction.

Posted by Marc D | September 22, 2011, 06:41
Hi Marc,

Fantastic – thank you for letting us know. It’s good to see the product being supported!

Posted by Al Gauthier | September 22, 2011, 07:29
I really like the vibrum shoe. Is there a model that is designed for damp, colder weather? I’d like to avoid frostbite!

Posted by tina hussey | November 6, 2011, 03:49
Hi Tina!

Sadly Vibram has not really Created a waterproof design yet. In trouble no doubt is that a waterproof version would probably become sweaty as well and this might not really work well as a design.

To make matters worse, the two designs that have leather in between the toes, which makes for better water resistance, are both men’s models. These would be the Trek LS, and the Bormeo.

If your feel fall within the men’s sizes you may want to give those a try. I would suggest a good waterproofing spray might help as well.

Posted by Al Gauthier | November 6, 2011, 07:12

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