What do you mean by exposed? Unless you're doing intricate climbing the chances of catching a toe on something in VFs is nill.

All VFs have a bit of rubber padding on the front of the toe to prevent toe-stubbing.

I've noticed a significant improvement in the coordination/sensitivity of my feet, I stub my toe a lot less often in VFs than when I wear regular shoes. My calves have also become a lot stronger, and my balance has improved as well.