"Barefoot" running shoes

I was thinking that would be the answer Jcleppe. Mainly because they have regs for footwear and that style is not regulation.
 
Thank you, that's what I had figured. I am buying a pair for running this summer and realized it would be a good idea to check if I use them for ROTC before I trashed the nice pair I have now with everyday use.
 
Are shoes in the Vibram Five Fingers style allowed for PT and APFT?

-If ARMY-
That's one to ask your PMS about.
It's a question of how is "Running Shoe" defined.
Above ankle length white socks would still be required.

Different PMS's have varying opinions on uniforms.
I have asked several PMS's about the use of non-issue book-bags
and got a different answer from every PMS.
(even though the Regs is pretty specific)

FYI: Looks like 25th Infantry Div. has authorized their use: Link
 
As many people have already said, NO, Five Fingers and similar shoes are NOT acceptable for PT. First, as a runner speaking here, the shoes weigh less than trainers, and so a few seconds would be shaved off the running time. Second, look at them. Which one offers more protection to the feet, the Five Fingers or the regular running shoes? If you're going to use Five Fingers, keep your pair at home and run in them when you're on leave.
 
Marist, what was the official reason for the decision?

The Army rarely justifies it decisions
e.g. found the Officer Candidate School (OCS) Vibram Five Fingers Shoes policy; LINK
"Vibram Five Fingers Shoes are not authorized for wear in OCS"

JMHO: the thought of wearing those on a O-dark-30 run, and "finding" a broken beer bottle turns my stomach.

added; these things are new to me, did a little reading, they are for running on your "forefoot" no landing on heel at all.
---Think 10 mile CC run with 60lbs of gear running on your "forefoot"? :stretcher:

May come as a shock to some, but not that long ago PT was run in BOOTS.
 
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