Dear Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Asics,

In any relationship, there comes a point where both parties in the relationship must reflect on where the relationship is headed. Questions need to be raised like “is this relationship working?”, or “can this relationship get better?” “Am I really happy in this relationship?” “Can I picture myself happy in this relationship in the future?”. Big brand shoe makers, its time for me to reflect on our relationship.

For the past 25 years I have purchased your shoes faithfully. I remember when models like the Reebok Pumps, Air Jordan’s, Adidas Superstars, and the Asics GT-2160 used to feel great on my feet and even more importantly they also made me feel great. But all that has changed recently. I’ve learned more about what a shoe has to offer, and looking back I understand that these models never felt like they were a part of me. Deep down inside of my feet’s heart, they have always felt like there was something missing. While wearing your shoes I felt a void inside of my feet that has never made them feel whole or free.

That void became even more apparent when I recently tried on a new pair of shoes. A different pair of shoes that were peculiar at first as they highlighted each individual toe instead of hiding them in a box. These shoes helped me understand what I’d been missing all these years while wearing shoes you manufactured.

At first I thought that I would be like so many others that required months for their feet to get use to these new feet friendly shoes but for me, wearing Vibram FiveFingers was a match made in heaven. The only part I had to get used to was putting them on. Once they were on they felt perfect and I quickly grew accustom to them. For the first time in my life my feet felt like they are free!

I do not just wear them for exercise. I wear them around town, on air planes, or just to hang out. I can even take naps in them!

My question to you is simple. With all of the money you put into research and development, how come you did not create a model of shoe similar to the quality and comfort like Vibram has created? You are supposed to be the shoe giants of the world, but it appears your research and development efforts have gotten lazy. I’ve looked to you for years to bring me the greatest footwear technology but instead it’s been marketing gimmick after gimmick with the same old model of shoes you created 30+ years ago. Now, when I wear your shoes, my feet feel trapped!

After wearing a pair of Five Fingers, I don’t know how I could ever purchase another brand of athletic shoe! Vibram Five Fingers are great for comfort, and usability. You might want to try out a pair and take a closer look at how your research and development team is spending their time.

Best,

Kody Carling