How to care for your Vibram Five Finger Shoes

Vibram Five Fingers are lightweight, thin-soled shoes with toes that resemble gloves for the feet. These shoes are designed to replicate the feeling of going barefoot. They are popular for athletic activities such as hiking, running, lifting weights, workouts, yoga and water sports. Even though they are made with antimicrobial materials, they can still start to smell, or become otherwise dirty. Caring for your Vibram Five Fingers properly will help you keep them clean and fresh smelling, and will lengthen their life.

Things You'll Need

• Baby or foot powder
• Clean dry towel
• Clean damp towel
• Laundry detergent
• Clothesline or rack
• Shower gel or soap

Instructions

Daily Care

1. Sprinkle a small amount of baby or foot powder in your Vibram Five Fingers before wearing them. The powder will absorb moisture and reduce foot order. Your shoes will glide on more easily.

2. Shake excess powder out of your Vibram Five Fingers after you are done wearing them.

3. Brush the fabric or leather part of the shoes with a clean, dry towel.

4. Wipe the sole with a clean, damp towel.

5. Dry your shoes completely between wearings. This may take between 24 and 48 hours.

Weekly or Monthly Washing using Your Washing Machine

1. Wash your Vibram Five Fingers in the washing machine. Wash with warm water, using the gentle cycle and regular laundry detergent. Add towels or other thick, soft items to lessen the impact of the shoes on the washing machine.

2. Hang on a line or place on a drying rack to air dry your shoes.

3. Check that your Vibram Five Fingers are completely dry by inserting your fingers in the toes before wearing.

Weekly or Monthly Washing in the Shower

1. Shower with your Vibram Five Fingers. Rub them with shower gel or soap to thoroughly clean both the inside and outside.

2. Hang your Vibram Five Fingers on a clothesline or set on a drying rack.

3. Check that your Vibram Five Fingers are completely dry before wearing by inserting your fingers in the toes.

Tips & Warnings

• If you wear your Vibrams frequently, get a second pair so they can dry thoroughly between wearings and washings.

• Do not dry your shoes in the dryer, near heat or direct sunlight. This may damage them.

References

• Vibram Five Fingers: Frequently Asked Questions
• Vibram Five Fingers: Frequently Asked Questions
• 5 Five Fingers; How To Care For Vibram Five Fingers Shoes; February 2011