Those Inov-8's look good, but damn, they are narrow AF. Toe box is tighter than regular shoes from Adidas or Reebok. Had to return them for a refund. Much happier with the Xero HFS and got their Zelen and Mesa Trail II on the way.
Another great video Jake! I was just looking for some barefoot shoes for crossfit, and ill definetely take your view on it. Have you ever tried the Whithin trail runners? The price is really good and i read some good reviews over it.
Thank you! I have not yet, but I just got them in and plan to start the review process soon! I bought those and TSLA off Amazon to test them compared to the pricier models!
I just bought Merrell Trail Glove 6, my first "minimalist" running shoe. I'm still getting used to the thin soles. I was thinking to also buy another shoe with a little cushioning to help me transition by alternating between the two, but that would mean more money.... the Merrell's don't have insoles... you gave me a great idea... instead of taking an insole out, what about putting an insole in!!! Genius. Gonna give a go tomorrow. Thanks mate.
@@thatfitfriend I completed my longest run ever yesterday, 15km, in the Merrells. I don't believe I would have made it that far without the added insoles. Last 5km were tough. I wasn't tired, but sore. It really is about SLOWLY transitioning to minimalist shoes, getting used to your new running form, and getting used to using different muscle areas. Insoles are a good tool to help the transition, and save to money. The Merrell's are good. Not the widest toe box, but enough for me at the moment. I like the lacing system, gives you lots of control over how you want the shoe to hold your foot. For example, i can have the middle laces tighter than the higher/top laces, and the laces won't move/change while running. Thumbs up for now.
I have had a pair of xero prio for 4 months and the soul came apart. Was able to return to REI but xero did not want to help. Got a second pair from Zappo's and after 3 months and the soul came apart even more. Again xero dint want to help. Zappo's refunded my shoes and am looking for the next best shoe. I bought my shoes from REI and Zappo's because Xero didn't have my size available. I do love xero but there quality and costumer service is not good at all. I started with the xero sandals and love them. Had them for 1.75 years and I have no issues with them. Not sure what changed with there quality.
I really love the innovates but ive got wide feet - 4.6 inches wide. not sure if i should go for the xero 360 or just deal with the narrow fit for the innovates...what is your take?
Eh, I’m never really a fan of working around a size since there are so many options that would likely fit your feet better! Then again, I guess it’s the internal question of its worth suffering for 😅 I’d opt for the Xero and see how they fit first!
Hey, I'm trying to decide between the new Primus Lite Knit and the Inov-8, as well as the Prio, for Parkour training. I like the wider toe box on the Vivos for proper splay and balance but I'm a little worried about the traction for things like wall-runs and not sliding on landings or run ups. The durability with the varying types of motion is also a factor. Been training in Lems which have broken down now. Do you have a suggestion? I'm leaning towards the new Lite Knits. Open to any barefoot shoe you think could be best for this type of training. (Tolos?)
That's a great question. I'm not sure if the Knit will be your best call either since that upper tends to stretch and I think Parkour's stress may lead to a looser upper at a faster rate. The Prio would be decent, I would also look into the HFS from Xero Shoes. Skip on the Inov-8 because of the toe box. Tolos could be okay, but I haven't seen other reviewers/athletes test them in a Parkour context, so I don't feel comfortable saying rip a pair because we don't have enough data. I've seen folks also use the Primus and enjoy them, which would be my go-to for this ask, if you don't opt for one of the Xero Shoes!
@@thatfitfriend I think you're right that the Xeros might be the best for this as traction is really important to me for wall runs and probably better than the primus at this. Would you opt for the HFS here or would the 360s be better for traction and stability?
Have you considered reviewing the Vivo Geo Racer II? It's basically the halfway point between the Primus and Racer Knit. Also way better laces than the Primus.
@@thatfitfriend I emailed them recently and they said they couldn't say if or when the II's would be sold again. Hoping they come back though, because they are legitimately the best Vivo for Crossfit.
Hey i was wondering what shoe you would recommend as a daily wear - jump rope, running , and lifting. I feel like i need a thicker/stronger toe box as to prevent injury if a weight falls on foot. Looking for a zero drop shoe as i wanna transition in barefoot. I also have a wider foot.
Hey, are you looking for a barefoot shoe specifically? If so, the Prio would be a good starter shoe to explore, IMO. You could also explore the Lems Primal 2 (it's a bit thicker than a traditional barefoot shoe, but still minimalist) or the Altra Solstice XT 2 (it's a zero-drop training shoe).
@@thatfitfriend Thanks for the reply. Note: ‘Solid Summer Shoe’ sounds like the name of an indie band a potential girlfriend might play in the car on a third or fourth date and you’d have to smile and find something polite to say about them. “Yeah. Not bad, they remind me a little of the Recycled Uppers”
Have you tried or even heard of Freet? I just got a pair of the citees for work, but I decided to try lifting in them instead of my Reebok Nanos to try out the barefoot shoe concept in as many places as possible and I love them for lifting even though they aren’t one of Freets more breathable/training style shoes.
For tuggin both work and notorious will save you money. I opt for Vivo more often than not though because I use them for daily wear and other training as well!
TY for this comparison! Suddenly seeing the primus lite in stock, which I've been eyeing. But I think I'll stick with my prio's, which seem better value. Mine are black, very neutral.
I'm considering switching to Xero Prio from Primus Lite 3. I've had some problems with Vivo, after only a couple of months each pair I've owned had cracks along the sides. It's a bit disappointing considering the amount Vivo charge and already showing signs of wear and tear
Xero HFS are my favorites. Tried a bunch of different brands but I love Xero HFS. Only issue is they can get stinky. I use deorderizers in them when not wearing them.
@@Mralex3281 they have this slight padding that’s just enough. It’s as close to barefoot with wearing Vibrams 5 fingers. I workout all the time in them.
Those Inov-8's look good, but damn, they are narrow AF. Toe box is tighter than regular shoes from Adidas or Reebok. Had to return them for a refund. Much happier with the Xero HFS and got their Zelen and Mesa Trail II on the way.
"get the content you need and get the heck out of this video".
I love it. subbed :D
Haha, ain’t nobody got time for that!
Appreciate you 💪
I thought the price was crazy for the Vivos but the only pair I've bought is going on 3 years in a couple of months.
They def last a while especially if you take care of them!
Another great video Jake! I was just looking for some barefoot shoes for crossfit, and ill definetely take your view on it. Have you ever tried the Whithin trail runners? The price is really good and i read some good reviews over it.
Thank you! I have not yet, but I just got them in and plan to start the review process soon! I bought those and TSLA off Amazon to test them compared to the pricier models!
really great reviews of these shoes and explaining the differences.
I just bought Merrell Trail Glove 6, my first "minimalist" running shoe. I'm still getting used to the thin soles. I was thinking to also buy another shoe with a little cushioning to help me transition by alternating between the two, but that would mean more money.... the Merrell's don't have insoles... you gave me a great idea... instead of taking an insole out, what about putting an insole in!!! Genius. Gonna give a go tomorrow. Thanks mate.
Solid idea! Let me know how that goes. How do you like the Trail Gloves thus far?
@@thatfitfriend I completed my longest run ever yesterday, 15km, in the Merrells. I don't believe I would have made it that far without the added insoles. Last 5km were tough. I wasn't tired, but sore. It really is about SLOWLY transitioning to minimalist shoes, getting used to your new running form, and getting used to using different muscle areas. Insoles are a good tool to help the transition, and save to money.
The Merrell's are good. Not the widest toe box, but enough for me at the moment. I like the lacing system, gives you lots of control over how you want the shoe to hold your foot. For example, i can have the middle laces tighter than the higher/top laces, and the laces won't move/change while running. Thumbs up for now.
Such a damn good review, well done! Thank you.
Thank you, friend!
A like & Sub for the Vivobarefoot 👍
Welcome! Stoked to have you
I have had a pair of xero prio for 4 months and the soul came apart. Was able to return to REI but xero did not want to help. Got a second pair from Zappo's and after 3 months and the soul came apart even more. Again xero dint want to help. Zappo's refunded my shoes and am looking for the next best shoe. I bought my shoes from REI and Zappo's because Xero didn't have my size available. I do love xero but there quality and costumer service is not good at all. I started with the xero sandals and love them. Had them for 1.75 years and I have no issues with them. Not sure what changed with there quality.
I’ve heard that now a few times. Imo, I think you’re right regarding the tweak of the sole.
I just bought a new Prio to update my reviews for 2023 🤝
Can you do a comparison between the Vivobarefoot primus knit and Xero Nexus knit please? 😁
I have Xero coming soon enough!
Great video! I agree 100%! But I would add the Merrell Vapor Glove as 1 then vivobarefoot 2 the xero 3 then inovo8 in 4th. Great video just sub’d
Thank you! And love these insights 💪
I’m working through the Vapor Glove soon and I’m stoked for em!
I really love the innovates but ive got wide feet - 4.6 inches wide. not sure if i should go for the xero 360 or just deal with the narrow fit for the innovates...what is your take?
Eh, I’m never really a fan of working around a size since there are so many options that would likely fit your feet better!
Then again, I guess it’s the internal question of its worth suffering for 😅
I’d opt for the Xero and see how they fit first!
@@thatfitfriend awesome thanks for the recommendation!
@@nybigblue44 welcome 🤝
prio has extremely abrasion resistant outsole that makes it very durable but that also makes it almost useless on slippery surfaces
What you recommend to use for 12 hours hospital shifts if have flat arch and lower back pain?
What do you currently wear and are you used to wearing barefoot shoes?
Hey, I'm trying to decide between the new Primus Lite Knit and the Inov-8, as well as the Prio, for Parkour training. I like the wider toe box on the Vivos for proper splay and balance but I'm a little worried about the traction for things like wall-runs and not sliding on landings or run ups. The durability with the varying types of motion is also a factor. Been training in Lems which have broken down now. Do you have a suggestion? I'm leaning towards the new Lite Knits. Open to any barefoot shoe you think could be best for this type of training. (Tolos?)
That's a great question. I'm not sure if the Knit will be your best call either since that upper tends to stretch and I think Parkour's stress may lead to a looser upper at a faster rate.
The Prio would be decent, I would also look into the HFS from Xero Shoes. Skip on the Inov-8 because of the toe box. Tolos could be okay, but I haven't seen other reviewers/athletes test them in a Parkour context, so I don't feel comfortable saying rip a pair because we don't have enough data. I've seen folks also use the Primus and enjoy them, which would be my go-to for this ask, if you don't opt for one of the Xero Shoes!
@@thatfitfriend I think you're right that the Xeros might be the best for this as traction is really important to me for wall runs and probably better than the primus at this. Would you opt for the HFS here or would the 360s be better for traction and stability?
Have you considered reviewing the Vivo Geo Racer II? It's basically the halfway point between the Primus and Racer Knit. Also way better laces than the Primus.
I have and they're on my list! I'll look into buying some soon. Every time I've checked to get them done, they've been sold out. Thanks for the rec!
@@thatfitfriend I emailed them recently and they said they couldn't say if or when the II's would be sold again. Hoping they come back though, because they are legitimately the best Vivo for Crossfit.
Hey i was wondering what shoe you would recommend as a daily wear - jump rope, running , and lifting. I feel like i need a thicker/stronger toe box as to prevent injury if a weight falls on foot. Looking for a zero drop shoe as i wanna transition in barefoot. I also have a wider foot.
Hey, are you looking for a barefoot shoe specifically? If so, the Prio would be a good starter shoe to explore, IMO.
You could also explore the Lems Primal 2 (it's a bit thicker than a traditional barefoot shoe, but still minimalist) or the Altra Solstice XT 2 (it's a zero-drop training shoe).
@@thatfitfriend Thanks🏋️
The mesh upper of the Primus Lite looks more breathable than the others - what is your experience? Does it make a good shoe for the Summer?
The Primus does have an edge for breathability compared to these two! They’re a solid summer shoe, IMO 💪
@@thatfitfriend Thanks for the reply. Note: ‘Solid Summer Shoe’ sounds like the name of an indie band a potential girlfriend might play in the car on a third or fourth date and you’d have to smile and find something polite to say about them. “Yeah. Not bad, they remind me a little of the Recycled Uppers”
@@jethrobradley7850 LMAO, hey, I'm here for it. Did you know that the drummer from "Solid Summer Shoe" also played in "Breathable Mesh"?
@@thatfitfriend ha ha. I’m guessing he played with them before they went all electronic
@@jethrobradley7850 I think we have a solid movie/story here...
nice vid and info I was looking for
Have you tried or even heard of Freet? I just got a pair of the citees for work, but I decided to try lifting in them instead of my Reebok Nanos to try out the barefoot shoe concept in as many places as possible and I love them for lifting even though they aren’t one of Freets more breathable/training style shoes.
I have not, but now I’m intrigued! I’ll have to look more into them and get a pair or two for the channel and testing. Thanks for the rec 💪💪
They are a small English company, so I am not surprised you haven’t heard of them. I would be curious on your thoughts on the Freet Tanga or Flex
Vivobarefoot vs notorius lift?
For tuggin both work and notorious will save you money. I opt for Vivo more often than not though because I use them for daily wear and other training as well!
well done.
Thank you!
Thanks for checking it out!
These just make me want to deadlift in Birkenstocks.
😂😂😂
Great review! Very well done
Thank you, Adam!
TY for this comparison! Suddenly seeing the primus lite in stock, which I've been eyeing. But I think I'll stick with my prio's, which seem better value. Mine are black, very neutral.
I'm considering switching to Xero Prio from Primus Lite 3. I've had some problems with Vivo, after only a couple of months each pair I've owned had cracks along the sides. It's a bit disappointing considering the amount Vivo charge and already showing signs of wear and tear
Xero will likely be just fine for you then! Sorry to hear the Vivo have been falling short for you
Xero HFS are my favorites. Tried a bunch of different brands but I love Xero HFS. Only issue is they can get stinky. I use deorderizers in them when not wearing them.
Are they pretty cushioned to run in Them?
@@Mralex3281 they have this slight padding that’s just enough. It’s as close to barefoot with wearing Vibrams 5 fingers. I workout all the time in them.
I will never buy the inov8 just for the name. Jesus what a mouthfull.
LOL, right? I always have to redo intros for their shoes because I always butcher their names 😂