Eye In The Sky said:
Ack. Any model you prefered? I was looking at the KomodoSport or Bikila for lace or the KSO just for the gym.
I've used the Bikala LS, the KomodoSport, the Speed and the KSO.
The Bikala LS had the "Draw String Velcro Tab". Very convenient, but the velcro tab eventually ripped off. Not that it changed much. The Bikala is probably the lightest of them all, and by far my favorite platform for running.
The KomodoSport is not much different than the Bikala, but I would go with the word "Stiffer". It is probably a better model for all purpose gym use.
The Speed are much like Bikala, but with laces, making them slightly heavier. Although the laces feel a lot better in terms of fit.
The KSO lacks something the others don't. A liner. That will affect your comfort, either good or bad, depending on personal preference. The lack of a liner also makes them easier to keep clean (AKA, they STINK LESS) The KSO are lighter, have a bit of a softer more rounded sole, which I find give them more grip, but not necessarily good for running. Good for say, burpees. A bit less durable, and better for using in water.
As for vibrams in general, they are great for all movements, as they allow you to feel the ground better than any other shoe. You're also much less prone to sprain an ankle, since there is no "cliff" to fall off (that you would find on a typical x-train/running shoe). So for CrossFit, they are ideal. For power lifts or olympic lifts, their lack of cushion makes them great for flatness and stability, but actual platformed lifting shoes are more appropriate. Basically, that makes vibrams the only plausible "all purpose" shoe, aside from the new Reebok OLY, which is designed to meet that purpose.
If you're shopping around, make sure you take a look at the New Balance Minimus series. The MR00 (0mm rise from toe to heel), are also great all purpose shoes, and allow you to wear regular socks. That's what I've been using after my last pair of Vibrams kicked the can, absolutely love them.