It seems to me that sometimes the circumstances demand certain equipment. Rather than passing up a challenging trail, I would get myself a good pair of trail running  shoes.

What is it you like about the Vibrams?  0 drop? Toe Splay?  There are some new shoes on the market that offer those features and with just enough protection to keep your feet from getting bruised.

I have worn the Merrill Trail Glove and like those a lot.  I’m excited to try the new New Balance MT110.  Lately I’ve been running easy trails in huarache sandals.  Luna Sandals has some options with thicker soles and a leather footbed that I have heard offer all the protection you need, at least to the soles of your feet. 

The sacrifice is probably a reduced ground feel.  If you want to run technical trails, you will probably have to make a tough choice between ground feel and comfort.  I think your options are stick to less technical trails, get used to bruised feet, or consider moving into a minimalist trail shoe.

I've been running increasingly technical trails here in SE PA for the last year in my Bikilas.  I'm up to 15K races and pretty happy with the whole deal.  For me it's just a matter of watching the trail in front of me like a hawk and stepping very carefully.  I've reached the point where I can more or less let loose and fly down hills.  That's the fun!  Any idiot can go clomping along with big old barges on their feet. (No offense intended to those of you in the vast majority out there still using those things.)  I'm not wicked fast, nor do I think I ever will be.  My last race on Feb. 26 (the Ugly Mudder in Reading, PA) I was 210th of 882.  Still, not shabby. I have gotten the occasional bruise on the instep, but I sort of imagine that conventionally shod runners don't come through entirely unscathed either.

Check out the alternate Min shoes like Trail Gloves, if you think it will improve your running experience.  Sure!  Why not?  Just remember, it might be more important to focus more on your form and how you are running the races.

Good luck and run well!

I'm glad you found the right tools for your task.  I guess the toeless shoes suit those of you with webs.