In a world where footwear often prioritizes fashion over fitness and profit over wellness, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking a return to the natural. Combining sustainability, performance, and minimalist design, this shoe is a testament to the idea that footwear should work with your body, not against it. In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Primus Lite Knit an excellent choice for those looking to reclaim their natural potential.
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
Sustainability Meets Mobility
The Primus Lite Knit takes the beloved Primus Lite to the next level with its flexible knit upper, which is crafted from recycled plastics. This innovative material not only reduces waste but also enhances mobility and agility, making every step feel effortlessly natural.
The Sole of the Matter
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
At the heart of this shoe is the 2mm Primus outsole, designed to bring you as close to the ground as possible. It provides a sensory-rich experience that connects you to the terrain beneath your feet. For added performance, the insole is constructed with algae-derived RISE foam, which not only offers comfort but also helps clean up our waterways by repurposing harmful algae.
Protection Without Compromise
Despite its minimalist design, the Primus Lite Knit doesn’t compromise on protection. The Pro5 Puncture Resistant finish, a lightweight and flexible 0.8mm layer on the sole, keeps painful objects out while allowing you to feel the ground beneath you. It’s a balance that ensures both safety and sensory feedback.
Lightweight and Agile
Weighing in at just 246g (based on a single shoe in Men’s size: EU 42 | UK 8 | US 9), the Primus Lite Knit is exceptionally lightweight. This characteristic, combined with its sensitive 2mm Primus sole and flexible knit upper, makes it an ideal choice for active lifestyles. Whether you’re engaging in weight and strength training, calisthenics, animal flow, or even light road running, this shoe provides the freedom of movement you need.
Versatile for Every Terrain
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
The Primus Lite Knit adapts effortlessly to various terrains and activities. With its stripped-back soles, it’s the perfect companion for barefoot living even in the city, providing a close connection to urban surfaces. For your workouts, whether it’s weightlifting or a HIIT session, this shoe offers barefoot performance that helps you unleash your natural potential.
A Design Focused on Natural Living
Vivobarefoot’s commitment to natural living is evident in every aspect of the Primus Lite Knit. The Primus Outsole, with its thin 2mm profile, minimizes the barrier between your feet and the ground. It allows natural movement while still offering ample protection for urban environments. The hexagonal tread pattern enhances multidirectional flexibility and grip, ensuring you’re ready for any terrain.
Reclaim Your Natural Potential
In a world where conventional shoes can hinder our body’s natural abilities, the Primus Lite Knit invites you to reclaim your natural potential. It’s a reminder that nature, in its simplicity and efficiency, can heal and empower us. This shoe isn’t just footwear; it’s a philosophy that puts your well-being first.
Unlock Savings with VIVOHEALTH
As an added bonus, when you purchase the Primus Lite Knit, you can take advantage of a 25% discount on a VIVOHEALTH online course. Strengthen your foot health and performance while enjoying the comfort and freedom of the Primus Lite Knit. Use code VH25PLKNIT at checkout to redeem this special offer.
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is more than just a shoe; it’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes your body’s natural abilities. With sustainability, performance, and minimalist design at its core, this shoe empowers you to move, feel, and thrive in harmony with your environment. Reclaim your natural potential with the Primus Lite Knit and take the first step toward a healthier, more connected future.
I recently had the pleasure of wearing the Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots during my son’s Scout Camp, and I must say, these minimalist boots exceeded my expectations. Throughout our adventures, which included walking and hiking over 10 miles, these boots provided exceptional comfort and impressive traction without compromising ground-feel.
Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots
One of the standout features of the Magna Lite Soft Ground boots is their remarkable comfort. Even after long hours of walking and trekking, my feet remained comfortable and free from fatigue. The boots’ design allows for natural movement and flexibility, which is a testament to the brand’s commitment to providing a barefoot-like experience. I appreciated the attention to detail in the fit, which was snug and secure without feeling restrictive.
The lugs on the outsole deserve special mention as they provide excellent traction on various terrains. Whether I was walking across loose rocks or gravel, the lugs offered enough grip to prevent slipping while still allowing me to maintain a strong connection to the ground. Furthermore, the spacing of the lugs proved beneficial when encountering muddy conditions, as they released mud easily, ensuring I didn’t lose traction.
Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots
The camp I attended was characterized by frequent rain, resulting in wet conditions throughout our stay. However, the Magna Lite Soft Ground boots performed admirably. While they did get wet, they dried quickly, allowing me to stay comfortable and focused on the adventure at hand. The breathable mesh material used in the boots facilitated efficient moisture management, enhancing overall comfort.
Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots
In terms of construction and features, the Magna Lite Soft Ground boots boast a range of impressive attributes. The boots are animal-free, making them a great choice for those seeking vegan-friendly footwear options. The puncture-resistant Pro5 finish on the sole provides protection against sharp objects while still allowing for a natural and sensory experience. Additionally, the boots come equipped with a thermal insole that regulates temperature, keeping your feet warm or cool depending on the conditions.
Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots
The Soft Ground Outsole is designed for maximum ground feel and grip on soft or slippery terrain. With a 2.5mm base and 5mm lug height, this outsole delivers the perfect balance of protection and sensory feedback. The sticky rubber construction with aggressive chevron lug traction ensures stability on wet and muddy surfaces, while the textured arch provides additional grip for technical trail movement.
In summary, the Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots are a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value comfort, traction, and a minimalist experience. From the comfort and fit to the impressive outsole design, these boots exceeded my expectations throughout my Scout Camp adventure. Whether you’re walking in the city or exploring rugged trails, these boots will keep you connected to the ground while providing the necessary protection and support. I highly recommend the Vivobarefoot Magna Lite Soft Ground hiking boots to anyone seeking a lightweight, breathable, and reliable footwear option for their outdoor pursuits.
The Murph Challenge is an annual fitness event that pays tribute to Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy, a United States Navy SEAL who sacrificed his life during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan in 2005.
This challenge has become a popular way for individuals around the world to honor and remember fallen heroes on Memorial Day.
The Murph Challenge consists of a grueling workout that includes a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another one-mile run—all done while wearing a weighted vest.
There are variations. GoRuck, in 2023, published their version of the Murph, which traded out the 100 pull-ups for 100 bent over rows using either 40 or 60# sandbags. Due to a shoulder injury, this is the version I completed this year.
This intense physical test pushes participants to their limits, testing their strength, endurance, and mental resilience.
2023 Murph Challenge
This was my first year training for and completing the Murph Challenge.
Completing the Murph Challenge requires not only physical preparedness but also the right gear and equipment to enhance performance and provide necessary support.
From weighted vests to durable footwear, the products used during this challenge play a crucial role in helping participants achieve their best results.
In this product review, we will explore several items that Huck Adventures received from the brands below to test.
And we put them to the test while training and during the Murph Challenge, evaluating their functionality, comfort, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a first-time participant, finding the right gear can make a significant difference in your Murph Challenge experience.
GoRuck Training Weight Vest
Completing the Murph with a weighted vest is a big part of the challenge. Sure, doing the workout without weights is already grueling. But it also simulates the real-life conditions of military personnel and the gear and equipment they carry.
GoRuck Weight Training Vest
The GoRuck Training Weight Vest (full review here) was a consistent companion while I trained and built up my rep counts for the Murph.
Anytime, I walked the dog, I put it on.
When I hiked one of the smaller mountains in Boulder, I put it on.
Running in the GoRuck Training Weight Vest was surprising. I thought it would bounce, but it didn’t. It stayed secure, but didn’t feel tight. I could still breath deeply.
My biggest challenge wearing it was getting used to the weight on my shoulders. For longer periods of activity, my shoulders would tire from holding the weight and I would find myself unstrapping the velcro and stretching; providing some relief. Gradually that feeling went away.
For the Murph, the standard is a 20# weight vest. Mine was 40#. I wore it for both runs, but ended up shedding it halfway through the rows, pushups, and squats.
Ten Thousand Interval Short and Versatile Shirt
Throughout these past several months, Ten Thousand has been a consistent workout partner.
Everything Ten Thousand makes is amazing. The material is soft and moves with you.
When doing workouts, like the Murph, where you are doing a lot of different compound movements, I was very pleased that I didn’t chafe.
I was able to also test how odor-resistant the material was when I took the Interval Short and Versatile Shirt with me on a five-day work trip. Each morning, I went to the hotel gym and I worked up a heavy sweat. By the time I reached by fifth morning and my fifth workout, they still smelled great.
When I am not working out, I find myself wearing them. Even now as I am writing this article, I am wearing them.
For workouts where I lifted heavy for squats and deadlifts, I consistently found myself wearing the High Top Adapt. I enjoyed the extra ankle stability that the construction of the high top provided. For the Murph, these were my shoe of choice for this exact reason.
One of my favorite features of Flux Footwear’s shoes is their innovative ADAPTSOL CUSHION. It allows the shoe to adapt to the shape of the user’s foot, providing a comfortable and customized fit. The little bumps in the footbed also act as little foot massagers.
These shoes are also minimalist in design. Wide toe box. 10mm insole. 0mm heel to toe drop. It provides the perfect balance between cushion and ground feel so that when I am lifting in them or running, my feet are very happy.
Decathlon Workout Equipment
When I first started this journey, I knew I needed to make some changes with how I worked out. I needed to build up strength, so I could increase my endurance. It wasn’t enough to just do bodyweight pushups or squats with the GoRuck weighted vest.
As I was researching equipment, I realized just how darn expensive it would be to build out my home gym.
But then I came across Decathlon. Huck Adventures partnered with them to review their weight-training rack and their weight plates. I also purchased a incline weight bench and an Olympic barbell.
What makes Decathlon different is that their business model is built to lower overhead and indirect costs so they can provide their customers with high quality equipment at a lower price than their competition.
When I was researching, I compared prices between Decathlon, the big-box retailers, and leading fitness companies and Decathlon consistently was a better value.
And upon receiving the equipment, I was happy with the overall quality.
Decathlon Weight-Training Rack
The weight-training rack was the most important piece of equipment I added to train for the Murph. Mostly because it allowed me to do pull-ups. It is able to be secured to the floor to prevent any wobbling and if I had the space, I could have trained to do kipping or butterfly pull-ups to have an easier go at it.
The rack was a great setup for bench-press and using as a squat rack to help me build up my strength and endurance for the weighted exercises in the Murph.
I have been very impressed with Decathlon as a brand and the equipment I received and bought from them. If you’re looking to build out your home gym, checkout Decathlon.
COROS VERTIX 2
The COROS VERTIX 2 was also a consistent partner while I trained.
I mean, it’s a consistent partner every day. I hardly take it off. You can read my full review here.
COROS VERTIX 2
But the big feature I want to highlight is the Multisport mode.
With this mode, you can set up your watch for workouts like the Murph. You can assign 5 different workout modes with the Multisport mode. For the Murph, I set mine up for Run, Gym Cardio (this is the mode I tend to use for a majority of my workouts, focusing more on my heartrate range versus tracking reps and muscle group in their Strength mode), and finally Run.
It is easy to use and setup. The user interface of the watch makes it really easy to switch between workouts in Multisport.
The COROS VERTIX 2 is the best watch on the market, in my opinion. Mostly because of its battery life (on average, I charge every 28 days). But their team consistently brings updates and new features to the watch through their firmware updates. They listen to their customers and continue to improve their software and hardware.
HydroJug
Hydration is one of the most important aspects of pushing yourself physically.
My go-to water bottle for years was a simple stainless steel 32-ounce. But I would find myself filling it up multiple times throughout the day. Which, in itself, isn’t a bad thing, but I’m lazy sometimes.
HydroJug
HydroJug has become my favorite hydration vehicle. It’s a 73 oz. water jug. I tested their plastic version that came with a straw and sleeve to keep your water cool, but they also have a vacuum-sealed stainless steel version, as well.
It’s handle makes it easy to carry and when it’s full, you can get a few reps of bicep curls in.
The flip-top makes it easy to open and the straw has a rubber bottom that allows it to pop out for easy drinking.
Throughout the day, the HydroJug has been a consistent companion. Whether I am working or working out, the HydroJug goes with me wherever I go.
The designs they have on their website are pretty cool, as well. For testing, I received the sage color HydroJug and a black camo sleeve. It looks pretty sweet.
Murph Results
I’m not going to lie.
The Murph Challenge was hard.
I followed GoRuck’s Murph Challenge, which was a one-mile run, 100 bent-over rows, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and finished with another one-mile run.
I broke out the rows, push-ups, and squats into 20 rounds of 5, 10, and 15 respectively.
For both runs I wore my 40# GoRuck weight vest and wore it for the first 10 rounds of rows, push-ups, and squats.
My total time was 58 minutes. I’m not blaming my kids for my time, but it’s worth mentioning that I had several pint-sized interruptions. Total activity time was 47 minutes.
Halfway through the rows, pull-ups, and squats I had moments where I wondered if I would be able to finish the Murph.
When I started my final run, I knew I was committed, because I had to get home, right? But, being perfectly honest, there were moments where I walked to catch my breath.
But I finished.
A huge thank-you to the brands that partnered with Huck Adventures for the Murph Challenge.
This is going to be a new Memorial Day tradition for me. And I hope to beat my time next year.
The Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC shoe is a true game-changer in the world of swimrun footwear.
The New Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC Swimrun Shoe
Designed with the input of elite trail and swimrun athletes, this shoe offers unparalleled performance and comfort in both wet and dry environments.
The quick lacing system is a standout feature, allowing for hydrodynamic performance and easy on-the-go adjustments. And the lace pocket keeps your laces secure and out of the way, ensuring maximum efficiency during races.
The New Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC Swimrun Shoe
But what really sets the Hydra ESC apart is the Bloom Performance Insole. This innovative insole is made from algae biomass, a sustainable alternative to traditional EVA foam that is damaging our oceans. Not only does this make the Hydra ESC environmentally friendly, but the closed-cell foam absorbs minimal water, reducing wet weight and increasing your speed in the water.
The Hydra ESC is also built with the Michelin ESC outsole, offering extreme traction and grip in the most challenging environments. The aggressive off-trail lug design and textured arch provide zonal grip for technical off-trail movement, while the articulated toe lugs act like claws for ascent and the essential heel lug provides critical braking for steep descents.
The New Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC Swimrun Shoe
So how does the Hydra ESC perform in different scenarios?
To get my feet used to them, I started with some hiking in Boulder.
The wide, thin, and flexible design of the shoe allows for natural foot movement, and the Michelin ESC outsole provides excellent traction on uneven terrain. And thanks to the quick lacing system, adjusting the fit is easy and quick, even on the go.
The New Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC Swimrun Shoe
When I took them for a long trail-run along the foothills, I enjoyed how lightweight and flexible the shoe was. The Hydra ESC provides excellent ground feel, allowing for skillful movement on technical trails. The Michelin ESC outsole once again shines, providing extreme traction and grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
While it’s winter and open water isn’t ideal this time of year, I took the Hydra ESC to an indoor pool for training.
The materials drain and dry quickly, and the closed-cell foam insole ensures minimal water absorption, reducing wet weight and increasing speed in the water. And the hydrodynamic lacing system ensures maximum efficiency during swim workouts.
The New Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC Swimrun Shoe
The Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC is a top-of-the-line swimrun shoe, designed for elite athletes who demand the best in performance and sustainability.
And with its innovative features, unmatched grip, and comfortable design, it’s a shoe that is sure to elevate your swimrun game.
Plus, it’s vegan and animal-free, making it an ethical choice for those who prioritize sustainability in their purchases.
If you’re a serious swimrun athlete looking for a shoe that can handle anything you throw at it, the Hydra ESC is definitely worth checking out.
If you’re a serious weightlifter or CrossFit enthusiast, you know how important it is to have the right footwear.
Flux Footwear High Top Adapt
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a shoe that promises to deliver exactly what you need for your workouts. The team at Flux sent us the High Top Adapt in Graphene for us to try out and we were impressed.
In this product review, we’ll take a close look at the features and benefits of this shoe to determine whether it’s worthy of being considered one of the best weightlifting or CrossFit shoes on the market today.
Construction
First of all, let’s talk about the construction of the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt.
Flux Footwear High Top Adapt
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a CrossFit shoe that’s built to last, thanks in part to its graphene-infused upper.
Graphene is a nanomaterial that was discovered in 2004 at The University of Manchester, and it’s composed of just a single layer of carbon atoms. Despite its thinness, graphene is incredibly strong, with a strength that’s 200 times greater than steel.
With its remarkable strength and flexibility, graphene is being studied for use in a variety of applications, from bulletproof vests to airplanes. The Flux Footwear team has harnessed the power of this material and infused it into the upperof the Adapt High-Top, resulting in a shoe that’s incredibly durable, flexible, and provides excellent traction for even the most demanding CrossFit workouts.
When you’re doing CrossFit, you need a shoe that can keep up with your intense training regimen. The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with Graphene delivers on that front and more. Its graphene-infused upper provides unparalleled durability and traction, while its flexibility allows you to move freely during your workouts. Whether you’re doing box jumps, deadlifts, or sprints, this shoe is up to the task.
AdaptSol™ Technology
For CrossFit enthusiasts, having a shoe that can adapt to the unique shape of their foot is crucial. That’s where the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with AdaptSol™ technology comes in. This shoe is designed to not only look great, but to perform and feel incredible no matter what your foot’s shape.
Flux Footwear High Top Adapt
The AdaptSol™ technology is all about freedom and flexibility. With a wider toe box, ultra-flexible sole, and just the right amount of stretch throughout, this shoe expands and adapts to your feet as you move through your CrossFit routine. No more feeling restricted or uncomfortable, the AdaptSol™ technology ensures that your feet have the space they need to move naturally and perform at their best.
Whether you’re doing snatches, burpees, or weightlifting, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt with AdaptSol™ technology delivers the perfect balance of support and flexibility. Its wider toe box allows for better stability and balance, while the ultra-flexible sole provides a more natural feel and helps to reduce foot fatigue. And with just the right amount of stretch throughout, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, snug fit that doesn’t feel too tight or too loose.
When it comes to fit, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is true to size. The shoe is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your foot. The high-top design of the shoe provides a snug fit around your ankle, which helps to prevent any slippage during your workout.
Performance
Now, let’s talk about how the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt performs during weightlifting and CrossFit workouts. The first thing you’ll notice when you put these shoes on is the grip provided by the graphene-infused sole. This sole is designed to provide maximum traction, which is essential when you’re lifting heavy weights or doing high-intensity exercises like box jumps. The adaptability of the insole system also allows you to customize the level of cushioning and support you need for your workout.
Flux Footwear High Top Adapt
The high-top design of the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt also provides excellent ankle support. When you’re lifting heavy weights, it’s important to have a stable base, and this shoe delivers on that front. The breathable upper of the shoe also helps to keep your feet cool and dry, which is important when you’re doing high-intensity workouts that make you sweat.
Conclusion
Overall, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a shoe that’s worthy of consideration for anyone looking for the best weightlifting or CrossFit shoes. It provides excellent grip and durability, while the AdaptSol technology provides all the cushioning you need for your workout.
The breathable upper of the shoe keeps your feet cool and comfortable during your workout, and the high-top design provides excellent ankle support. If you’re serious about your workouts and want a shoe that can keep up with you, the Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is definitely worth checking out.
The Flux Footwear High Top Adapt is a top contender for the title of best weightlifting or CrossFit shoe and it has been a great companion on my own fitness journey.
This shoe has a minimalist design, with a 0mm drop and a 10mm AdaptCushion foam underfoot making it a true minimalist shoe. The wide toebox allows the toes to spread, giving the user more grip and stability when lifting weights. The sleek, modern design of this shoe makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a minimalist shoe that is both comfortable and stylish.
Features
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe features the innovative ADAPTSOL™ TECHNOLOGY, which allows the shoe to adapt to the shape of the user’s foot, providing a comfortable and customized fit. The wider toe box, ultra-flexible sole, and just the right amount of stretch throughout the shoe gives the feet the freedom they need.
Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe
The ADAPTSOL CUSHION is designed with enhanced biofeedback in mind, featuring over 100 individual massaging cushions that mimic barefoot proprioception. The cushioning is optimized for any activity, providing just the right amount of cushioning to keep the feet comfortable and protected.
The ADAPTSOL TREAD offers flexible traction, utilizing a uniquely articulated, dual-injection rubber. The tread is designed to provide supreme flexibility while still offering unmatched traction, allowing the user to move with confidence and stability, no matter the activity.
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe is designed with the user’s comfort and performance in mind. The ADAPTSOL TECHNOLOGY, ADAPTSOL CUSHION, and ADAPTSOL TREAD all work together to provide a customized and comfortable fit, flexible traction, and optimal cushioning for any activity. Whether you’re weightlifting, walking, or running, the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe will provide you with the support and performance you need.
Testing
Weightlifting in the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes was a pleasant experience. The wide toebox allowed my toes to spread, which helped me maintain a solid grip on the ground.
Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe
The 10mm insole provided a level of comfort that I didn’t expect in this shoe, allowing me to lift heavier weights without feeling discomfort. The 0mm drop and minimalist design of the shoe gave me a feeling of stability, which is important when lifting heavy weights.
Running in the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes was also a great experience. The 10mm insole provided enough cushioning to protect my feet from the impact of running, and the minimalist design allowed me to feel connected to the ground. With the minimalist design, I was able to maintain good form and reduced the risk of injury. The 0mm drop and minimalist design of the shoe allowed me to run with good form, and the shoe felt comfortable and lightweight during my runs.
The Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes are not just a great choice for your workouts, they are also stylish enough to wear out on the town or to business meetings. The minimalist design of the shoe, combined with its sleek and modern look, makes it a stylish addition to any outfit. Whether you’re dressed up for a meeting or just running errands, these shoes will complement your look.
The versatile design allows for seamless transitions from the gym to the office, making them a perfect choice for the stylish, on-the-go individual. With the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoes, you can have the best of both worlds – style and comfort.
Overall, the Flux Footwear Adapt Trainer shoe is a versatile, minimalist shoe that is great for any activity. The 10mm foam provides a level of comfort that is unexpected in a minimalist shoe, and the wide toebox allows the toes to spread, giving the user more grip and stability when lifting weights. The minimalist design of this shoe makes it a great choice for those who are looking for a minimalist shoe that is both comfortable and stylish.
I recently took them on a run on the breathtaking beaches of Costa Rica and was blown away by their performance. I was running during low tide when the sand was hard and compact, and I was pleasantly surprised by the firm grip these shoes provided.
The knitted upper allowed for optimal flexibility and breathability, making the run not only comfortable but also enjoyable. I didn’t have to worry about my feet overheating or feeling restricted, which made for a truly memorable experience.
When I returned home, I put these shoes to the test on the rocky trails of the Colorado Mountains.
These trails can be a real challenge for any runner, with jagged rocks and uneven terrain that can be hard on the feet. But with the Vivobarefoot PRIMUS TRAIL KNIT, I felt confident and protected. The firm ground sole did an excellent job of keeping my feet safe while still allowing me to feel connected to the ground. I appreciated how the knitted upper provided a snug fit and excellent breathability, even when I was pushing myself to the limit.
Vivobarefoot PRIMUS TRAIL KNIT
In terms of comfort, these shoes are fantastic. They felt great on my feet, even after hours of running on the trails. I was pleased with the lack of any hot spots or blisters, and the shoes hugged my feet in all the right places. The Vivobarefoot PRIMUS TRAIL KNIT shoes have truly changed the way I run. They have rewilded my body, brain, and feet, and I feel more connected to nature than ever before.
In conclusion, I highly recommend the Vivobarefoot PRIMUS TRAIL KNIT trail-running shoes for anyone looking for a comfortable and high-performance shoe.
Not only are they creating some of the best minimalist shoes on the market, but they are also taking their mission to create a better planet to heart.
This Earth Day, we’re highlighting Vivobarefoot, because of their mission, but also because minimalist shoes help us connect better to the Earth and if we can listen a little bit better to the feedback we’re receiving then it’s easier to fold ourselves into this larger global work.
Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG Gear Review
Recently, Vivobarefoot announced a new project called Right to Roam. It was created in partnership with another B Corp Finisterre. Their mission is enabling a more “accessible and welcoming outdoors.”
In the US, around 28% of land is freely accessible, held in public trust by the federal government. However, in England and Wales, only 8% of land is accessible.
How are they championing this Right to Roam? From their blog announcement:
Firstly, we’re celebrating and amplifying communities stepping up, stepping out and telling new stories about who the outdoors is for. You can read about two of those communities here.
Secondly, we’re curating a series of outdoor opportunities, workshops and retreats to educate and agitate around outdoor access. We’d love for you to join our newsletter or follow us on Instagram to hear first about when these launch.
Well, the Primus Lite II had an offspring: the Primus Lite III.
True to the minimalist model, the Primus Lite III has a foot shaped foot bed, a wide toe box to allow for natural stability (your toes are your anchors), thin 4mm outsole so you can feel the Earth, and flexible so that your foot can bend and flex naturally.
The Primus Lite III is also made with more sustainable material than it’s predecessor, reducing it’s overall impact on the planet.
This in itself is huge. Shoes make up a ton of waste that finds it’s way to our landfills. Vivobarefoot continues it’s mission to build shoes in a sustainable way. Additionally, because these shoes are minimalist and don’t have padding, they will last forever. And, when you do wear them down and your toes start to poke through, Vivobarefoot also has a program to revive (ReVivo… get it?) your old shoes.
I’ve been wearing the Primus Lite III non-stop over the last week. And I love them.
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
First, they look fantastic. I loved the algae green of the Primus Lite II, but I love the new colors they launched the Primus Lite III with. I have the obsidian color and they look slick. They pair well with workout shorts or dressier pants.
They are also super comfy. When I wear them, it doesn’t feel like I am wearing shoes. They are a bit lighter than the Primus Lite II.
I have been taking them out on runs, walks, working out in them, and working in them. They work so darn well.
If you’re new to the minimalist movement, don’t let the thin sole scare you off. Each shoe purchase comes with the VIVOHEALTH Barefoot fundamentals course for free. Plus, these shoes come with a 100 day trial. If your feet aren’t happy (I’m pretty sure they will be), you can return them without any hassle.
The Primus Lite III are available for purchase online. They come in a variety of styles for men, women, and kids.
I’ve been wearing minimalist shoes fairly exclusively over the past 12 years.
Even with trail-running, I would wear shoes that had only 5mm between myself and the Earth. I could feel every tree root and rock on my runs.
And I loved that.
But I also recognized that, especially on more technical terrain, having minimal protection was holding me back. I could tear down the terrain as fast as I knew I could because of those rocks, roots, and uneven ground.
The reason why I started wearing minimalist shoes was because of an injury to my achilles. Any shoe I wore that wasn’t zero-drop caused pain and discomfort. And that issue still persists 12 years later.
Enter: Altra
Altra has been on my radar for years. They fit the mold of a minimalist shoe—wide toe box, foot-shaped shoe, and zero-drop—but with cushioning.
Altra Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe
When Altra sent me a pair of their Superior 5, I was hesitant at first, but was immediately put at ease when I first slipped on the shoe.
When the box arrived, it was a wet, snowy day in Colorado, so I didn’t wear them outside initially to run. I took them downstairs to my workout area for a HITT style workout.
Immediately, I knew something was different.
With all the jumping jacks, jump squats, and even running in place, I was going harder, faster, and stronger than I had in my other workouts.
When I took them out for my first trail run, I noticed that both my speed and my stride had improved. I shaved off 15 seconds to my most recent best mile and my stride was more efficient.
What was going on?
The Altra Superior 5
I chose the Altra Superior 5 out of their lineup because it is their slimmest trail design.
It weighs only 8.5 oz. for a US M9.0 and 7.3 oz. for US W8.0.
While it is still zero-drop (meaning that there is a 0mm difference between the heel and toe placement), the Altra Superior 5 still has a 21mm height. 17mm more cushion than I am typically used to!
Altra Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe
Even though it has more cushion than I am used to, it still provides some ground feel. While I wasn’t feeling everything, I did notice that my foot still had enough feedback from the ground to adjust how it was running, especially on technical terrain that was rapidly changing.
And if ground feel isn’t your thing and you want more protection, the Altra Superior 5 has a removable rock plate that adds additional protection.
The outsole is also pretty darn grippy with their MaxTrac™ outsole and multi-directional lug pattern. It handled well on a variety of terrain. My first run was on a snowy and slushy day and as a transitioned from dirt to concrete, it responded well.
The upper is pretty nice too. I had read some negative reviews about the tongue causing issues with some runners, especially going downhill and having their foot slip. But I never experienced any issues with the lacing system or the “burrito style” tongue wrap. My foot always felt very secure.
The tongue itself has more padding than I’ve seen in other shoes. It’s also integrated seamlessly as part of the upper, hence the “burrito style” reference.
Altra Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe
The Altra Superior 5 also has built in gaiter attachments. This was a welcome addition. With other shoes that didn’t have this feature built in, my gaiters always sat a little bit funny and snow typically found their way in. Even after stomping through a foot and half in Rocky Mountain National Park, my gaiters stayed secure.
Hardy but Minimal
During the course of our review, I put on over 50 miles on this shoe.
Going into it, I wasn’t sure I would love it. I had run many ultras with very little protection and was somewhat content. But this shoe shook my belief that I was making the best decisions for my feet based on my previous footwear choices.
I am still happy that I am running minimalist, but in a more hardy shoe. My times have improved and I am able to tear down those trails the way I’ve seen my ultrarunning idols do.
I still appreciate that ground feel isn’t completely gone either. A big reason why I find joy in running is the ability to feel the Earth and Altra still provides that ability—granted it is with a bit more cushion.
Altra Superior 5 Trail Running Shoe
If you haven’t tried Altra yet, but are curious about minimalist, zero-drop shoes, you’re missing out.
The Altra Superior 5 is available online in Men’s and Women’s sizes, but Altra has a handy tracker to show shoe stores in your area that have them.
Xero Shoes is a Colorado-based minimalist shoe company. They believe in the natural ability in feet; that they are meant to bend, flex, move freely and feel. They have a wide selection of incredibly light shoes and sandals built with this “foot-first” mission.
All of their shoes have the same DNA:
A wide toe box that lets your toes spread and relax
Zero-drop, non-elevated heel for proper posture
Flexible soles so that your feet bend and flex naturally
Natural feel through their thin soles; allowing your feet and brain to regularly communicate
I’ve been wearing various pairs of shoes—mostly in their running and hiking categories—and couldn’t have been more happy about testing out their Fall 2020 lineup.
APTOS
Xero Shoes Aptos
First up is the Xero Shoes Aptos. For Fall 2020, this shoes is part of their casual lineup, and right out of the gate I love it.
It still retains the classic Xero Shoes design with these mid-point straps. While in this shoe they aren’t as functional as other products (mainly because of the lack of laces), the shoe fits well.
The shoe I tested is a 10.5 Mens. Normally with Xero Shoes products I’m a size 11. Because of the lack of laces, I scaled down to make sure I had a room to flex and feel, but without having my foot move around too much.
The look of these are amazing. They look a lot like the classic Vans slip-on. These have become a staple for me in the office mainly because it allows me to be little bit more dressy, but while still being able to wear a minimalist shoe.
The top is super sleek with it’s hemp upper. It’s great to pair with a pair of jeans or something a little less casual.
Xero Shoes sells these in men and women sizes in two colors: black and navy.
ALPINE
Xero Shoes Alpine
Xero Shoes is also releasing a snow-friendly, waterproof, insulated boot: The Apline. It has polyester insulation, heat-reflective insoles, and a fully seam-sealed lining to get you warm and dry.
While I was testing them in August without any snow available for a deeper test, I tried them out in two different scenarios.
Ice Bucket Challenge. I filled a bucket with ice and stepped into it with the boot on. The beauty of the heat-reflective insole is that it does exactly what it’s supposed to do. While there was some cold that seeped through, my foot was still extremely comfortable. I left it in for 45 minutes and while a lot of ice melted, the inside of the shoe was dry.
Snowshoeing. This is always the question I have for minimalist winter boots: can I snowshoe in them? The extent of this test of just strapping a pair of snowshoes on. While it was successful and I didn’t have any issues with the boot slipping out while walking around my yard, it’s fair to say that this test was incomplete.
I can’t wait for Winter to come so that I can test these more fully and will post a follow-up review after our first significant snowfall.
The Alpine I tested was a size 11 Mens. It’s fit is loose, but that’s good. When I test this further in the winter, I’ll be pairing it with thicker socks and for snowshoeing it’ll be good to have some extra room in them.
HANA
Xero Shoes Leather Hana
Four years ago when I first discovered Xero Shoes, the Hana was one of my first purchases and I still have that original shoe. Even though it’s been fairly beat up it’s still a slick shoe to wear into the office.
For Fall 2020, Xero Shoes is adding to their original model’s lineup a Hana with a leather upper. Even with the leather upgrade, the Hana retains its original slipper-like feel and true to Xero Shoes design it retains the functional, huarache-inspired heel strap for a more secure fit.
While the original Hana was a classy shoe for wearing out around town or in the office, the leather definitely helps the shoe step up the classiness an extra notch. Stylish, comfortable, minimalist shoes for work wear or more formal engagements has always been challenging. While there are more brands on the market trying to deliver this function, they typically run into the same issues: they are either too expensive, too weird-looking, or don’t have enough form to them and after a few wears look trashy.
These on the other hand are pretty damn awesome. I’ve played around a bit with different outfits and they worked well whether I was pairing them with a suit jacket or a short-sleeved button up.
The Hana I tested was a size 11 Mens. It felt true to size.
OSWEGO
Xero Shoes Oswego
Oswego is new for Xero Shoes this fall. And out of everything I’ve tested, my favorite. It stands out as a performance-shoe, but with a style that you could easily take from the trail to Main Street.
The bottoms have the same grippy pattern on the sole as their Speed Force shoe, but the uppers have a cool polyester knit upper.
My first impression was how close they look to All Birds. I remember when All Birds came out and Googling whether they were minimalist and being disappointed when I found out that they weren’t. The Birds were stylish and cool, but now with the Oswego, I can easily give that brand the bird when sporting these.
These shoes, because of their nature, have been the most heavily tested. Because of the grippy sole I’ve taken them for runs, flipped tires in the backyard in them, and cycled to the office in them. They work well in all scenarios. Can you think of another shoe that you could bike to work in, go for a run in, and shoe up to an executive meeting in? I can’t.
The Oswego that I tested was a size 11 Mens. I felt it was true to size.
When they launch they will come in an assortment of colors for both Men and Women.
PHOENIX
Xero Shoes Leather and Knit Phoenix
We also tested out two versions of the Phoenix: a classy women’s flat in both knit and full-grain leather.
My wife has naturally wide feet that make shoe-buying hard, which is why she gravitates towards minimalist brands, but with that comes another, more serious challenge: finding cute shoes.
Any time she needs to buy more dressy shoes, it’s a struggle finding anything wide enough. Most women’s “wide” shoes on the market just aren’t that wide.
With the Phoenix, right off the bat, she noticed the 8 Wide’s sole was wider than the widest dress shoe in her closet. My wife also thought the design of the shoe was “super cute” with the lines and texture on a corner top of the shoe. For sizing, she usually wears an 8W, and these were a perfect fit.
My wife found the knit version of the Phoenix to be great for wide feet. She has a wide toe box, and her feet were actually wider than this shoe. But, because the knit version has some stretch to it, it felt really comfortable and she has been getting a lot of wear out of this pair. It cleans easily and can be dressed up or down.
The leather Phoenix was a bit less forgiving for wide feet. The leather is thick and didn’t stretch as much as she’d hoped, so it was a bit of a squeeze for her at first. She found that after some wear, the leather had more give and was more comfortable. She found the leather to be more dressy than the knit.
She said Xero shoes did really well with this design and she’s excited to have shoes that are both comfortable and dressy.
