Agree with your summary at the end They look great , can use them for multiple uses, very comfortable. They probably do very well in the context for which they are designed. But if your a heavier bloke like me and intend to use them daily on concrete for mostly casual use or walking then they MIGHT wear out faster than you’d like. Even thought I might never buy another pair , I say buy a pair and try them at least once.
That’s great information and a fair conclusion too. I’m waiting to see if there is, or when, a version lll (3) is released whether some of the issues are addressed and ironed out to make a more durable (design and materials) shoe is produced. My Primus Trail are hammered through continuous use and I am reluctant to get another as I think if the next generation is better I’d rather have them.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes now that would be interesting. I never thought about that . Who knows , maybe they might come out with a new design. I just spend some time ploughing through vivos website and UA-cam reviews. I like the look of the Magna leather fg (black ) . They look like they would give a little more protection from the wet and cold than the primus trail 2, but it looks like the sole is the same and would for me still wear out quicker than I’d like. The next step up is the magna forest esc with the Michelin sole that I assume would be harder wearing and last me longer . I could be imagining it but I’m sure at one point there was something like a primus trail 3 with a heavier duty sole. I could be wrong there. It might have been called something else . This might have been a few years ago . Might have been red in colour EDIT: silly me, yes there is a primus trail 3 on the website. But it’s soft ground , not Michelin
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes ok The hydra esc is pretty close to what I would like Like the primus trail in form but with the Michelin sole Only thing is I really dislike the colours /design 😊 I just want plain simple clean minimalist black
@@ourclarioncall Tim, (TJ into the wild) a guy who keeps in touch after seeing my UA-cam videos has a pair of the Magna Forest Escapes and says they are fantastic. I’ve got the Tracker ll but (even though I’m wearing them right now) I don’t really get in with them that well, but my wife loves hers and wears them just about everyday in the winter 🤷♂️ I’ve just got a pair of Decon for everyday winter use, looking forward to getting out in them, but I think they look a bit ‘city’ to me - we’ll see 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I like the look of the tracker 2, and the waterproofing is appealing. I’m not sure I would get on with them either as I think I would want something closer to a shoe or something that I can wear all year round in all conditions . But a shoe is too easy for water getting in as I found out the other day walking into w.h smiths with a wet foot after going through a puddle in an alleyway So something like the magna or Decon is appealing . Something that had a little more height and water protection over the ankle Be interesting to see how you get in with the deacons
Thank you for leaving a comment, I appreciate it 😁 Glad you like the accent too. Round where I live the older folk call people ‘mi duck’ so cheers mi duck have a great day 😄👍
Saw yours pop up earlier as I was editing this one. About to check out your thoughts on your first 4 weeks in them. They are a good pair of shoes all round I reckon
I have four pairs of Vivobarefoot boots and the Primus Trail II FG's were the first shoe in their line that I've purchased. At the end of the day all I can say is that, I love them. It was a directly out of the box and straight onto my feet perfection. They fit like a "glove" right out of the box! I love that sensation! I have loved mine so much that I just pulled the trigger on a second pair in deep sea blue with the white soles for the rest of summer! Now the anticipation begins!
Wow that’s awesome, they are such a good barefoot brand! When I bought these I got the Primus Lite lll at the same time but sent those back. I preferred the lacing system on the Trail and wanted a barefoot style shoe for running. I think I made a mistake sending them back as I love to wear these and think I would have worn the Lites casually loads. And also I know what you mean about the fit, they are just about perfect for me too. I did end up wearing them for the 35 (55km) ultra marathon and had an amazing run in them. I do like the deep sea blue as well, fancy another pair, think I’ll have to check the colour ways out 🤣🦶✌️👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes This is awesome. You perform what I consider to be near super human feats of athletics. So please let me ask you, how do you balance ground feel with foot protection? Let me be clear on one thing...I'm a sixty year old, vigorous dog walker, woodland boot scooter and weed smoker and not an athlete. Back to the point. The first boot I bought from Vivobarefoot was the now discontinued Scott III's. They had a sole that so thin, that if you step on a sharp piece of gravel it really hurts! That has to be a hazard when you run, isn't it? I find that the Primus Trails have better protection. Thanx! I'm just a curious old man!
@@dmgcaster904 Ha 🤣 that made me smile, just been to a permaculture and natural construction festival in Portugal (Festança) think you may have fit in there really well. Lots of barefoot people, lots of weed and lots of dogs too. And I don’t know about super human feats, just been running around we the kids for 15 minutes and feel knackered 🥵😁 I appreciate the compliment though 😁 I think that the Primus Trail has an excellent combination of ground feel and protection. There are barefoot shoes with better ground feel but they sacrifice any protection, meaning like you said step the heel onto a piece of gravel and it still sends a shock through my legs which makes me wince. I’ve also got a pair of Vivo boots (Trek I think) and they have the similar patterned soles to the Primus Trail but don’t seem to have the same feel. It maybe that I wear thicker socks, or they are more built up with chunkier uppers but they just don’t have the same ground perception as the Trails. As you’ve probably gather I rate the Primus Trail really highly, it’s nice that Vivo aren’t just style, they actually have a lot of substance to back it up 👍 I hope you enjoy the new pair just as much as the others you have for dog walking or anything else you put them to 👍
hello :) i have the chance to buy the deepsea, i just dont know about the sizing. Im 43 eu. But the seller said its 28cm inside, Can you say about sizing up or down maybe ? Thanks.
I have the same shoe but went for the all weather version. I love them. I also have a couple of pairs of Altra road running trainers which I love also. I couldn't go back to conventional shoes. I wear the Vivo's pretty much every day and for every occasion. Great video, well balanced review. 👏
Thank you very much Keith, I wear them pretty much very day too and still love them. I also had Altra’s (Torin, Superior and Escalante Racers) fantastic fitting shoes with the foot shaped toe boxes. I’ve seen the Vivo Primus all weather and think they look even better than these ones I’ve reviewed here. Think I need to get myself a pair 😁 Thanks again for your kind comments and I hope you continue to enjoy your shoes - I love mine 👍
@@RaedMohsen I prefer other barefoot shoes for road running. You can run on the roads in them and if it’s just occasional road use they’ll be ok, but I found the outsole a bit hard and plasticy for the road. The Primus Lite or Lite knit might be better for road running, or even something like the Freet Pace if you’re mainly running on roads
Brilliant. Thanks for this. As another comment said, this really is one of the best reviews. I'm um-ing and ah-ing but now I'm convinced. I'm not sure if you know anything about Parkinsons Disease, but a feature of that is falling over/poor balance. Also, the only thing that seems to slow the progression of the disease, is exercise. So, I've returned to running (slow and lumbering I admit) and hiking. Im convinced the feedback to the brain of the ''barefoot' shoes can only help the brain with the balance issues (not a serious issue for me yet, thankfully). I have a cheap pair of barefoot shoes and need a better grip for my runs and hikes, and these seem the ones for me. thanks.
@@johnr.5475 Hi John I’m glad the review helped. And I also hope these Vivobarefoot help with your condition too, as you say the feedback and ground perception should be a good thing for balance and strengthening foot and lower legs to help with balance. I did mention in this review that the weight of the shoe was a bit of an issue, but I did use them for the ultra marathon with no problems at all - in fact they were perfect for it 👍 take care and I hope you have many fun miles running and hiking in them. Cheers - Ash
I think I've done about 200km in mine now. Still getting used to them. Sometimes my form would feel a bit slappy at times. Not used them for a few months though. Nice detailed review mate. I didn't realise how heavy these ones are compared to some.
That’s good going that is mate 200km in them, I’m about the same for running but definitely use them more as a sling-on just about every time I leave the house for now. I’m actually reaching for my Altra Torin more recently too, thinking it’s a good thing to mix it up a bit doing higher mileage weeks. These are bruisers of the heavy weight division, Tysons of the shoe world 🤣
My everyday barefoot shoes is a pair of Splay Explore that I actually forget about when I wear them, and are quite happily more capable than I expected on my road and woodsy trail walks. I also wanted barefoot-healthy boots that were mud/snow capable for yard, pasture and more off-roady hiking. I'm loving them more every time I use them.
Hi, I’ve heard of Splay shoes and just checked them out online - they look good with the foot shaped toe box and grippy outsole. How did they size - true to size for you?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Adding a bit of detail I remembered; the way they were small for me was not in length (I have proportionally short-ish toes) but just too snug across the front of my mid-foot. Mine are the Explore style. The Freestyle ones that lace up might be more adjustable in that area.
Awesome review, nice to hear an honest appraisal of strengths and weaknesses. I'm thinking of buying a pair - if I can find a place that hasn't sold out.
Thank you, and I know what you mean about getting hold of a pair. Good luck I hope you find some because they are still one of my favourite pairs of barefoot shoes 🦶👍👌
Great review Ash! I started wearing these in the shop, as a mechanic, because my traditional "mechanic type oxford" style shoes were hurting my knees. These cured that issue, and I could get a little over a year out of them, on gritty, oil covered, shop floors, before the soles were smooth flat in the ball of the foot area, and starting to get holes. I also wore them, as you say, as my daily shoes. When they got oil covered and dirty, I'd just use the pressure washer at work, while wearing them, and wash them! LOL Extremely durable! As @MarcVanderLinden says below, I think they are too thick and heavy to run in. Not that I couldn't run in them, I just choose to run in other shoes (FF's, Merrell Trail Gloves/Vapor Gloves, New Balance Minimus 10v1). They make a fantastic hiking and backpacking shoe. Very high quality shoe, and I'm a HUGE fan of them, as is my daughter.
Thanks Todd, yes I think they are a fun shoe to run in but for shorter distances - anything up to 10k, then the weight really starts to show. And thicker more ridged outsole is nice a lot of the time but sometimes it’s nice to have that real ‘barefoot’ feel of something like the VFF or Merrell. It’s good that they helped with the knee pain you were getting, I wonder if it was the wider toe area than standard shoes, or more the zero drop and ground feel? Thanks for watching mate, hope you are doing ok 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes What I started to discover, was that the oxford style work shoes, with the traditional, hard, raised heel, were creating this "forward" loading on the knee, and also just sort of clunk in the stride, as that immovable, hard heel touched the ground first, while walking. Never really thought of it before, even though I've been running and hiking in FiveFingers since 2012, and was wearing the FF and Vivos as daily shoes. It finally occurred to me; Why am I wearing these at work (well...protection issues aside)? So I started wearing the Vivo's, and instantly, no more knee pain. A co-mechanic was having similar knee pain, and he was in cowboy boots every day, clunking around on those heels. I suggested he try a pair of his Vans "tennis shoes" and sure enough, no more knee pain. He started wearing his Vans, or his Converse "Chuck Tailors" from then on. BTW, I'm doing great. Took 3 steps without crutches, on the 20th at 4wks post-op. Started out this week on Monday, 5wks post-op, by walking 250' on the sidewalk in front of my house. Today I'm walking around in the house, without crutches. Not bad for only being mid 5th week.
That’s brilliant going from 3 steps without support last we to 250(!!) this week sounds like your recovery is going really well. And that is so interesting that both you and your work colleague’s knee pain was gone as soon as you both switched to flat, zero-drop, shoe for walking around and working in all day. I wonder how many other people could benefit from this knowledge. I’m still wearing an old battered pair of Altra Torins for working on our panel van to RV conversion and painting and decorating work. I was going to swap to these Vivos to wear for working in when they worn down and were no good for running/casual, but I think I may be waiting a while. As the durability standing up incredibly well. Glad you are doing well 😁👍
Enjoyed the video, I’m sure I’ll try them at some point but I’ve run in my primus lite 111’s throughout winter with no worries and are my go to shoe for everything running , going out wether it’s shopping or the office although out of the box they were so white I needed sunglasses now they are more of a sepia cream colour,. But I love them by far the best running shoes I’ve had and it’s been many.
Thanks Michael, I had the Primus Lite too at the same time as I ordered these. They are really good looking shoes - even better than these possibly - a bit more refined and less chunky. It’s good that you like the Lites so much. I love these Trails for getting out on the trails, and just about every other casual situation too. I think the Vivo Primus range are really good shoes, with the added bonus of being excellent to run in, almost as a bonus 👍
The Primus Lite's are definitely my favorite as well (just bought a 2nd pair!), with the Xero HFS a close second, but they're mainly a road shoe. On trails, they have very little grip, and the sole is so thin that it's almost painful running over acorns and especially sharp gravel. This is where the Firm Ground (FG) excels, though at the price of a little extra weight. If the Vivo Decon FGs hadn't just been released, I would've bought these slightly cheaper classic FGs instead for the trails.
@@JasonFarrell I really like the look of the HFS from Xero - really interesting design for road running. I had a pair of Prio years ago off eBay but they didn’t fit so I sold them on, but I prefer the look of the HFS and think they would suit me better.
@@martinzendejas8423 Yes I bought some Vivobarefoot Gobi’s in tan recently for a wedding from eBay. Didn’t want to spend a lot, as I rarely wear smart shoes/boots anymore, but wanted to look good. I bought a pair of ‘normal’ black brogues (wingtips) for a funeral a couple of years back secondhand and found them incredibly uncomfortable and passed them on to charity immediately after I’d worn them for one day. There is also Vivos own Revivo shop which is a good idea too, mainly returns from their 100 day trial I think were, like you say, people didn’t get on wearing them
Interesting and well made review Ash, as ever! I also have a pair of these, and while I LOVE them for everyday use, I find them relatively heavy for running (and I have logged a fair amount of miles). Another issue iss volume: I had to remove the inner soles for my feet not to be compressed and pinched (especially at the contact between my foot and my toes). By comparison, though probably even less barefoot strictly speaking, I prefer my xero shoes
Thank you Marc, yes there isn’t a massive amount of volume - particularly top to bottom in the foot-to-toe area, and where they crease makes it worse. I still think despite these issues and not being able to run in them without socks they are a really fun shoe. I saw a first 4 week impressions video released today by Move More Now James Neilsen he said a similar thing regarding removing the insole to get them to fit better. And due to not living close to the trails I’ve used them a lot more for walking in, for which they are fantastic, but the fun in them has definitely been on the trails 😁 Out of interest which Xero shoes do you have? How have you found the sizing of Xero shoes?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I have a pair of HFS, so not the best for trail only, but actually very versatile on a variety of terrain. The sizing guide on their website is v good: I followed their instructions and got the right ones for me. At the difference of the vivobarefoot, a lot of volume, but I get a great lock thanks to their lacing system
@@TadeuszCantwell I only a pair of HFS, so cannot really comment on the grip of the mesa trails, but from a comfort point of view, the xero are a better fit for me
I’ve these shoes and I prefer them for general wear, not trail running. However I did have an issue with the Primus Trail SG - the rubber rand issue you mention rubbing your little toe on extension occurs in those. I’ve tried different insoles, no insoles and the problem remains. Vivo really need to sort this design flaw out.
Yes I’m hoping when the lll version come out the design flaw is addressed because I really like pretty much everything else about these shoes. I’m considering getting another pair as the ones in this video are about done. Waiting for some more interesting colours to be released. What’s your go to trail runners atm Anni? I’ve a pair of Freet Feldom and Vibram V-Alpha but haven’t had the chance to take any of them out on the trails just yet. Got a feeling both pairs might be a bit small size wise 😬
Very thorough review. I’ve owned a pair of Vapor Glove 5’s for 2 months, my first barefoot shoe. Was thinking about getting the Vivo’s but I’m not sure now. I might just go for the Vapor Glove 6. Much cheaper and lighter.
Thank you Chris, yes I’ve seen the Vapor Glove 6 on line and a few reviews of them and they look really good. These Vivos Trails are definitely more durable than my Vapor Glove 4, however if you like the Vapor Glove 5 and like the fit and ground feel - go for the 6 and let me know what they are like 🤣 Seriously I really like my VG 4, a lot of people have said they are too narrow, but they suit my foot shape really well. And if the 5 suit you probably be good to try the 6. I think Vivo do a 100 day trial (check the website as not sure this is relevant in every country) so there may be that option too, if you wanted to give the Vivos a go 👍
Great review Ash 👌 As you know I also have a pair of these shoes...infact I have two pairs! My first pair got so wet, muddy and worn in that I wanted a second pair for as you mention, every day use. I went for the sock version on the second pair and have been really impressed with them. I actually went to the Vivobarefoot shop in Central London to get them which was a great experience 😀 I realise that I actually prefer to have something under my feet instead of feeling everything and so the minimal ground feet isn't a factor for me. As I suffer from an arthritic condition that effects my ankles, I no longer run in barefoot shoes but I really do love wearing them for everyday use 🙃
Hey Phil, thanks very much. Yes I’ve seen the ones I have atm are discounted to £98 on the Vivo website and am tempted to get another pair, but I’m wondering if they are discounted because the version III is about to be released, which would interesting to compare the two. The All Weather Knit version for sale now is the III and they look niiiice. Also the standard knit version comes in better colours imo. We went into the store in London a few years back, in fact I think it was before my youngest daughter was born, that would have been at least 5 years ago, and the store set up was fantastic, but the stock was pretty erratic back then and neither Jodie, myself or Edie could get sizes in shoes we liked. I’m glad they have sorted that stock issue - supply and demand. And yes atm I’m definitely using these more as an everyday shoe, in fact that’s very accurate, as I’m pretty much wearing them everyday! Than running in as my marathon training is on the roads, so using road shoes. I’m also reaching for my Altra Torin a lot more for my runs after a long run in barefoot shoes. Finding it nice to mix it up between barefoot and cushioned for the volume of running in my training plan 🏃🦶👟👌
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes For sure mate. Mixing up the Altra's and the Vivo's is really working well for me too! Good luck with the Marathon.. when is race day?
@@trailrunningphil Cheers Phil, yes mixing it up seems to be working well with the volume atm. London is on the 23rd April, exactly 3 weeks before Shires, so at least I’ll have done some training this time 😁 how’s your training going?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Erm well im not fitting in the mileage distances on my training programme but keeping up with strength, conditioning and mobility along with one faster running work out per week so fairly happy with it all.
Great review. I have a pair and found these really stiff on the pinky toes, I think the stiff side panel adds to the pressure and actually needed to gently heat that area with a hair dryer to shape it outwards a little. They definitely do lack lateral flex but that rigidity does help on very rocky terrain. I also had the previous version of these and they held up for 1000+ miles which it’s great value. I have since found my perfect trail barefoot shoe, the Freet feldom, super comfortable with loads of flex but enough grip and protection, can even add a rock plate if you need it too. Attempting my first ultra in them this May. I do still love vivos though, I just wish they’d stop using such hard plastics, I also have the Primus Trail SG III which also pressed on the pinky toe and was generally uncomfortable from being so stiff, great for less than 10 mile very muddy runs though as it grips like nothing else.
Thanks Paul, you have great shoes for running in! I’ve checked out the Freet Feldom online and they look really good, I also like the look of their Flex shoe too as a casual everyday/summer shoe. I think Freet are getting some great shoes in their range now. I’ve a couple of pairs, and went out for a 5 miler in the Freet Pace on Tuesday. That’s good advice too, regarding applying some heat to the Vivo Trails. Did this soften them permanently, or to remould them? I like hacks like this that make running shoes more comfortable 😁 And I hope for the next version of the Vivo Trail they address that area around the pinkie toe, as it is the biggest downfall of the design (along with the weight) for me as well. Despite the flaws they have still love getting out on the trails in them - as you must have with over a 1000 miles in the original versions! 😁 It will be interesting to see what the updates for the 3rd version will be. I see these version II are on sale at £98 atm so I reckon the version 3 can’t be far away 👍 Thanks very much for commenting and sharing your experiences running these and other barefoot shoes - very much appreciated 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes It was the thick section of the outer panel that pokes into the bend area I give a little heat to make sure it bent outward instead of into my little toe. I just heated it enough not to burn me and bend it with my foot in the shoe until cooled. I’d definitely give the Feldoms a go, Freets QC can be a bit hit and miss, but seems to be getting better now. That said I’ve probably got at least 350miles on them with the uppers still in great shape and the sole has minimal wear. I think Freets last shape it’s much better than vivo too, enough width without being too long and a bit less pointy.
@@CptAngelKGaming I’ve had Mesa trails actually, the toebox shape is just not wide enough for my foot shape and the sole actually detached after less than 200 miles. The Freet feldoms and a sole with much deeper lugs than their other shoe and can say I’ve fully tested them on everything the British winter has to offer.
very similar experience with these. mine are slightly small so i wear them without the insoles and its mostly good but i wouldn't wear them without socks. this is why slightly prefer the xero hfs and mesa trail, which are definitely less fashionable but more forgiving in the fit
Surprised how many people are saying they use them without the insole for a better fit. I can’t wear them without socks, which isn’t too much of an issue as I normally wear socks anyway for longer runs. I do like the look of the Xero HFS they area great looking shoe, how are they for road running?
@@CptAngelKGaming Great looking shoe too the Xero HFS 🤩 The issues I have with Xero Shoes are, as we are no longer part of Europe 😡 they are sent from America to the UK, so if the size is off they need to go back to the US. The second is the sizing. I did have a pair of Prio years ago off eBay (because they were not available in the Uk back then) I went up a size because I knew they come up small, and they were tiny. If they were easier to get hold of I’d definitely have one or two pairs of Xero for running in 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes there is a third party xero uk site that the Xero CEO said will soon get bought by Xero and become the official Xero uk retailer. As far as sizing, I wear half a size bigger than my Vivo on my HFS. Vivos are long and narrow while Xeros are shorter and wider with much more volume in the toebox. So if you have plenty of space on your Vivos, just go up half a size for the HFS and you'll be fine. If your Vivos are very snug, you can go up a full size on the HFS.
What I love about our vivo vegan recycled shoes is that you can chuck them into the washing machine for a quick wash, come out like new :) There is a Russell Brand podcast with Galahad Clark (creator of vivobarefoot) if anyone is interested. Agree about the narrow toe box size, I think all vivo shoes can do with a bit more wriggle room around the toe and pinky area.
Great review! Although I would like to know whether you sized up or sized down? I measured at an 11 and when I received the shoes, I had a lot more room I was comfortable with. I’m a bit reluctant to order the 10 because what if they’re too small, I’d love to hear what you think!
@@vincentrodriguez8436 Hi Vincent, thank you. Size wise I actually have these in a size M42 (which is a UK 8 or US 9) and my Vibram Five Fingers I wear a 43 and was a 43 when I wore Adidas and Altra too, so I’d try a 10 and see how you get on with those against the 11. Vivo have a 100 day return policy too so you can see which one you feel more comfortable in and return the other.
Right now my every day walking and everything shoes are a pair of zero sandals that are super thin called aqua clouds, and then the super thinnest KO five fingers. I do a food delivery at night and that’s what I wear now if you’re going out drinking people are drinking they probably don’t care what’s on your feetthe only other problem with the five fingers is the trail is once in a while you’ll run into a stump and they hurt so that’s it great
I’ve list checked out the Aqua Cloud online - super minimal 👌 and the KSO’s I love the look of those, I need to get me a pair. I tried on a pair of V-Trail a while back but it felt like I was in between sizes so didn’t bother, then someone on here said they feel a bit short but do give after a couple of runs 🤷♂️ I went for the V-Alpha in the end. Haven’t been out in them yet but looking forward to trying them on the road and trails. Where in the world are you based Todd? I can’t imagine wearing sandals in the UK it’s just too wet this time of year
Thank you for this! I am/was looking for a new everyday / city /errands / gym shoe, came across Vivo and wondered if they would be worth a try - I think it does look it ;)
Hi thanks very much, I’m glad the review helped. Hope you like the Vivo Trail when you get them. I’m wearing them today there are such a good all round universal shoe 👌😁
Thanks for your comments, yes they are expensive shoes - and an expensive brand in general, but they seemed to be good quality and really durable too, which I guess comes at a premium. I think they are on offer for less that £100 atm which is good 👍
Yes love mine too, but the price is an issue. The pair I’m wearing now are trashed so I’m wearing them for work as a painter and decorator. The only things putting me off getting another pair are the price and the fact that other barefoot brands are upping their game and putting out great shoes at more affordable prices.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes absolutely agree. I have expensive tastes, and usually am willing to Spend if it meets my needs , but I’m really struggling to justify buying another pair I wasn’t very satisfied with my conversation with one of the help team. They offered me a new pair and said my feedback would be passed on but I feel like I wasn’t really heard. Nobody is going to give me a response . They do have a 6 months thing but it’s not covering wear. There’s also the 100 day return offer but I feel that might not be enough time to gauge how fast they are wearing out , especially at the time of year they are purchased . It is pretty good though i will give them that . I was just outside the 6 month time frame and they were willing to accommodate. But saying that , it was not a defect it was wear , so don’t think it would matter if it was in the 6 months . I don’t know if I will take them up on their offer of a new free pair because it’s the principal of the thing. I would rather have an acknowledgment from the company that the value to longevity MAY be unfair and that they will either drop their prices or raise the quality . I was trying to say ok, what happens if I’m given a new pair , and they wear out the same and I complain within 3-6 months , will I be given new pairs over and over ? Have a found a potential loophole that could be abused ? Well, it’s not really being abused if the wear is in my opinion not acceptable in relation to the price and amount of use . I think the answer is no. This was just a one time good will gesture. So I think (I could be wrong) if they wear out quick there is nothing they will do other than pass on feedback or possibly be willing to offer a discount like they did in the beginning before I pressed them harder or a one time goodwill pair . I am willing to accept that I might have a unique set of variables that has caused the fast wear. I use them for casual use, most every day, and had a low average amount of steps (less than 5000 I think ) . I was told they are really intended for trails not concrete , which I accepted might be a very fair point , but when I went back to look at the marketing spiel it seems to be saying they are specifically for trails but can be used just about anywhere and on different surfaces . No warnings about concrete wearing them faster. I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt and would be willing to try primus lites or something that is intended for concrete/tarmac, to test if they can stand up to my usage. I’m pretty positive other brands of trainers have lasted me approx twice as long at half the price (maybe much more) Don’t let me put anyone off buying a pair , please do try them if you fancy them. If you’re not on the heavier side (I’m about 16.5 stone) and you don’t wear them everyday , they will probably last you 2-4 years . But for me, I get about 6 months or less and the lugs in a coupe spots have worn right down and I’m at the point where I feel I can’t trust them anymore . It will be a matter of time before they wear right through and stones and water can get in like the first pair I bought. I’m saying time in months , but it doesn’t really work like that either. I’m pretty active during spring summer and obviously much less active in the winter. I love most things about the shoe, but I’m really looking for something that’s bomb proof and will last forever , and I AM willing to pay for it if someone will make it. Overall I like vivo . I know running a company can’t be easy . I know you can’t please everyone . I know you have to make profit . The 100 days trial is good . I kind of feel the company are so big /powerful that my little voice likely isn’t taken seriously (that could be a false assumption, maybe there are people in a room somewhere looking at the photos and step count I sent in with soberness ) They are a bit of a lot overpriced. But then there is a whole psychology and business structure around that that people but into , like iPhones . And in some ways, the higher prices go back into making better products , or customer service, or no quibble returns etc etc. I have had a look around but there’s not many other barefoot shoes that I fancy trying. Maybe some of the xero but I don’t think they are in uk. Lems might have been another but not sure they are in uk either. Vivos are one of the “coolest “ 😎 shoes if not the coolest. I like the branding , the look of the shoe , etc etc, and again , people will pay for that . So I dunno , I’m just rambling away here. I’m a barefoot convert and don’t want to go back to regular trainers but I’m not sure where to go from here . A lot of the vivos have similar looking tread that’s on primus trail 2. I would need something heavier duty to get me through the year confidently but I don’t really want to be wearing boots in the summer.
They are my favourite too, just about worn mine out now wearing them pretty much everyday and looking to get another pair. And yes they do look like indoor soccer shoes 😁👍
@@sebakrol3433 They are expensive, however I bought mine for running and wear them pretty much as everyday shoes, and still for running too. So I found them good value despite the initial cost 👍🦶
I think the knit may be a bit lighter and not so built up on the inside above the arch . I did actually end up running the 35 mile Ultra Trail Marathon in these Trail FG ll and the weight wasn’t an issue👍
These black boots are totally worn out, I am buying the same model again today, The mention of some unnecessary weight due to the lacing is quite subjective to the point of embarrassment. In practical use, both plastic elements used to tighten the laces are necessary. In all my several years I have not felt any excess weight, if I had it I would take the insole out of my shoe
Fair enough, I did run a 35 mile ultra marathon in them this weekend and the weight wasn’t an issue at all. So maybe not so much of a problem after all. Video on that coming out this evening 👍
I bought a pair of Prio years ago from eBay, before they were readily available in the UK and I sized up but they were tiny. I’d really like to try the HFS though, that’s an interesting shoe. I also have Wildlings and they are really really good summer shoes 👌
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I've heard recent Xero shoes are better at matching the size guides compared to older runs. The HFS is what I do 95% of my running in, absolutely love them. Got a pair of speedforce on sale that I bring out sometimes.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes how do feel about driving in vivos? i bought some tracker decons and found them dangerously slippy on the pedals if it was wet outside so i returned them, do they wear in a bit from new after a few miles of use?
@@jimbob1222 Hi, I’ve never had any issues with driving in these, and I’ve worn them more for everyday use - like walking and driving than I have running. Plus living in the UK it feels like it rains more than it’s clear weather 😊👍
Do you have any thoughts on the Merrell trail 7? Seem well priced and good in between the vivo and vibram but have read people are unhappy with them having arch support
Hi Arnold, I’ve not tried the Merrell Trails Gloves, but one of the guys who comments on my videos (ToddM) really rates them and says they are very good shoes 👍
Hola, quiero comprar estos Vivobarefoot, vengo de usar FiveFingers en los dos últimos años, y las suelas Vibram tienen gran agarre. Estas Vivobarefoot qué tal son en mojado? Gracias por la review. Tienes un nuevo seguidor.
Hola Luis, mi Espanol es muy poco 😊 Estos Vivobarefoot Trail FG son muy buenos en el mojado y en los senderos - Es mi zappatos favorita! In English; Hi Luis, my Spanish is very little. These vivobarefoot Trail FG are very good in the wet and on the trails - they are mi favourite shoes! Also I’ll add (I don’t know how to say this in español) they get better the more they are worn and feel more comfortable, I wear them just about every day 👍😁🦶 Muchos gracias Luis 🙏
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Muchas gracias a ti, me los compraré. Por cierto te defiendes muy bien en español. Ojalá lo hiciera yo también en inglés. Pero... Un abrazo 🤗 desde Asturias.
Hi, they are not terrible on roads and concrete, but not brilliant either. They are heavy and the bases feel hard and unforgiving underfoot. There is a link in the video to where I run 10 miles through the city streets in them, check that out for more on how I got on in those conditions in these Vivos. Or if you search ‘Can you run 10 miles on city streets in the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail’ you’ll see the video. Cheers 👍
I'm looking at getting a pair of these, not for running just everyday use. Are the soles hard wearing? As I've had a pair of addidas terrex and the soles are worn within 4 month! I over pronate and just wonder if wearing barefoot shoes would resolve that issue, and these wiuld be my first pair of barefoot shoes. Great review.
Thanks very much, I’ve found them really hardwearing - and they also feel better the more they are worn, losing a bit of the initial plasticy feel which is nice. Shoes do tend to last me pretty well (probably because of how skinny I am) but I did go through the soles on a pair of Adidas and Hokas too before going solely to barefoot shoes. If these are your first pair of barefoot shoes they are a good place to start. Like anything new they take a bit of getting used to, but I’m really happy with them, and even though I have more miles running in other barefoot shoes these are definitely the ones I reach for for everyday use. If you get s pair I hope you like them as much as I like mine, be interested in knowing how they work with your over pronation, let me know how you get on 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes im a uk 9 have wide feet anyway and there web site says they run small and they have upped me to a 10 uk, does this sound about right in your experience?
Yer they are not the widest, I think Lems do good shoes for wider feet. The Vivos used to do a 100 day return though so if that is still available and you wanted to try it could be an option 👍
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes I just got a pair of Softstar Primal Runamocs. I am anxious to try those out before I try anything else. They are super minimal, soft, and feel like a glove on my feet.
@@mamabear9389 Cool, hadn’t heard of those before, just checked them out online and they look awesome. Very minimal, which I like, be interested to hear how you get on with them 👍
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes I look forward to trying them out, however I am not a runner so I would not be able to comment on that aspect. I do mainly light trail walking. I got the sole that is thinner for more flexibility, however they offer a thicker mega grip sole also. I am not sure if the mega grip sole would be better for running. You may want to read through the comments on their website for feedback from runners. However, after I give them a good try I will try to update you.
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes Just wanted to let you know I tried these shoes a couple time walking light trails and pastures. I love them! I feel like I have nothing on. The leather is so soft and they are like gloves for feet. I do not think they would be very good in muddy wet conditions though and I cannot comment yet on durability. I typically wear my barefoot boots when it is muddy and wet.
Understandable, but despite them having a couple of flaws they are still my most worn pair of shoes. They are pretty much flat in the bottom as all the grip has worn of and covered in paint from my day job, but I still wear them every day for work, I just wear socks with them. Hoping the ‘3’ version addresses the flaws as they will be pretty much perfect then 👍
Agree with your summary at the end
They look great , can use them for multiple uses, very comfortable.
They probably do very well in the context for which they are designed.
But if your a heavier bloke like me and intend to use them daily on concrete for mostly casual use or walking then they MIGHT wear out faster than you’d like.
Even thought I might never buy another pair , I say buy a pair and try them at least once.
That’s great information and a fair conclusion too.
I’m waiting to see if there is, or when, a version lll (3) is released whether some of the issues are addressed and ironed out to make a more durable (design and materials) shoe is produced. My Primus Trail are hammered through continuous use and I am reluctant to get another as I think if the next generation is better I’d rather have them.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes now that would be interesting. I never thought about that . Who knows , maybe they might come out with a new design.
I just spend some time ploughing through vivos website and UA-cam reviews.
I like the look of the Magna leather fg (black ) . They look like they would give a little more protection from the wet and cold than the primus trail 2, but it looks like the sole is the same and would for me still wear out quicker than I’d like.
The next step up is the magna forest esc with the Michelin sole that I assume would be harder wearing and last me longer .
I could be imagining it but I’m sure at one point there was something like a primus trail 3 with a heavier duty sole. I could be wrong there. It might have been called something else . This might have been a few years ago . Might have been red in colour
EDIT: silly me, yes there is a primus trail 3 on the website. But it’s soft ground , not Michelin
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes ok
The hydra esc is pretty close to what I would like
Like the primus trail in form but with the Michelin sole
Only thing is I really dislike the colours /design 😊
I just want plain simple clean minimalist black
@@ourclarioncall Tim, (TJ into the wild) a guy who keeps in touch after seeing my UA-cam videos has a pair of the Magna Forest Escapes and says they are fantastic. I’ve got the Tracker ll but (even though I’m wearing them right now) I don’t really get in with them that well, but my wife loves hers and wears them just about everyday in the winter 🤷♂️
I’ve just got a pair of Decon for everyday winter use, looking forward to getting out in them, but I think they look a bit ‘city’ to me - we’ll see 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I like the look of the tracker 2, and the waterproofing is appealing. I’m not sure I would get on with them either as I think I would want something closer to a shoe or something that I can wear all year round in all conditions . But a shoe is too easy for water getting in as I found out the other day walking into w.h smiths with a wet foot after going through a puddle in an alleyway
So something like the magna or Decon is appealing . Something that had a little more height and water protection over the ankle
Be interesting to see how you get in with the deacons
Thank you for the honest review, the video was quite pleasant to watch, and lovely accent.
Thank you for leaving a comment, I appreciate it 😁
Glad you like the accent too. Round where I live the older folk call people ‘mi duck’ so cheers mi duck have a great day 😄👍
Great long term review… really liking mine. Snap on the upload today!
Saw yours pop up earlier as I was editing this one. About to check out your thoughts on your first 4 weeks in them. They are a good pair of shoes all round I reckon
I have four pairs of Vivobarefoot boots and the Primus Trail II FG's were the first shoe in their line that I've purchased. At the end of the day all I can say is that, I love them. It was a directly out of the box and straight onto my feet perfection. They fit like a "glove" right out of the box! I love that sensation! I have loved mine so much that I just pulled the trigger on a second pair in deep sea blue with the white soles for the rest of summer! Now the anticipation begins!
Wow that’s awesome, they are such a good barefoot brand! When I bought these I got the Primus Lite lll at the same time but sent those back. I preferred the lacing system on the Trail and wanted a barefoot style shoe for running. I think I made a mistake sending them back as I love to wear these and think I would have worn the Lites casually loads.
And also I know what you mean about the fit, they are just about perfect for me too. I did end up wearing them for the 35 (55km) ultra marathon and had an amazing run in them. I do like the deep sea blue as well, fancy another pair, think I’ll have to check the colour ways out 🤣🦶✌️👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes This is awesome. You perform what I consider to be near super human feats of athletics. So please let me ask you, how do you balance ground feel with foot protection? Let me be clear on one thing...I'm a sixty year old, vigorous dog walker, woodland boot scooter and weed smoker and not an athlete. Back to the point. The first boot I bought from Vivobarefoot was the now discontinued Scott III's. They had a sole that so thin, that if you step on a sharp piece of gravel it really hurts! That has to be a hazard when you run, isn't it? I find that the Primus Trails have better protection. Thanx! I'm just a curious old man!
@@dmgcaster904 Ha 🤣 that made me smile, just been to a permaculture and natural construction festival in Portugal (Festança) think you may have fit in there really well. Lots of barefoot people, lots of weed and lots of dogs too.
And I don’t know about super human feats, just been running around we the kids for 15 minutes and feel knackered 🥵😁 I appreciate the compliment though 😁
I think that the Primus Trail has an excellent combination of ground feel and protection. There are barefoot shoes with better ground feel but they sacrifice any protection, meaning like you said step the heel onto a piece of gravel and it still sends a shock through my legs which makes me wince. I’ve also got a pair of Vivo boots (Trek I think) and they have the similar patterned soles to the Primus Trail but don’t seem to have the same feel. It maybe that I wear thicker socks, or they are more built up with chunkier uppers but they just don’t have the same ground perception as the Trails.
As you’ve probably gather I rate the Primus Trail really highly, it’s nice that Vivo aren’t just style, they actually have a lot of substance to back it up 👍
I hope you enjoy the new pair just as much as the others you have for dog walking or anything else you put them to 👍
hello :) i have the chance to buy the deepsea, i just dont know about the sizing. Im 43 eu. But the seller said its 28cm inside, Can you say about sizing up or down maybe ? Thanks.
Which one is the best for running on grass?
I have the same shoe but went for the all weather version. I love them. I also have a couple of pairs of Altra road running trainers which I love also. I couldn't go back to conventional shoes. I wear the Vivo's pretty much every day and for every occasion. Great video, well balanced review.
👏
Thank you very much Keith, I wear them pretty much very day too and still love them. I also had Altra’s (Torin, Superior and Escalante Racers) fantastic fitting shoes with the foot shaped toe boxes.
I’ve seen the Vivo Primus all weather and think they look even better than these ones I’ve reviewed here. Think I need to get myself a pair 😁
Thanks again for your kind comments and I hope you continue to enjoy your shoes - I love mine 👍
Are they good for road running?
@@RaedMohsen I prefer other barefoot shoes for road running. You can run on the roads in them and if it’s just occasional road use they’ll be ok, but I found the outsole a bit hard and plasticy for the road. The Primus Lite or Lite knit might be better for road running, or even something like the Freet Pace if you’re mainly running on roads
Brilliant. Thanks for this. As another comment said, this really is one of the best reviews. I'm um-ing and ah-ing but now I'm convinced. I'm not sure if you know anything about Parkinsons Disease, but a feature of that is falling over/poor balance. Also, the only thing that seems to slow the progression of the disease, is exercise. So, I've returned to running (slow and lumbering I admit) and hiking. Im convinced the feedback to the brain of the ''barefoot' shoes can only help the brain with the balance issues (not a serious issue for me yet, thankfully). I have a cheap pair of barefoot shoes and need a better grip for my runs and hikes, and these seem the ones for me. thanks.
@@johnr.5475 Hi John I’m glad the review helped. And I also hope these Vivobarefoot help with your condition too, as you say the feedback and ground perception should be a good thing for balance and strengthening foot and lower legs to help with balance.
I did mention in this review that the weight of the shoe was a bit of an issue, but I did use them for the ultra marathon with no problems at all - in fact they were perfect for it 👍 take care and I hope you have many fun miles running and hiking in them. Cheers - Ash
I think I've done about 200km in mine now. Still getting used to them. Sometimes my form would feel a bit slappy at times. Not used them for a few months though.
Nice detailed review mate. I didn't realise how heavy these ones are compared to some.
That’s good going that is mate 200km in them, I’m about the same for running but definitely use them more as a sling-on just about every time I leave the house for now. I’m actually reaching for my Altra Torin more recently too, thinking it’s a good thing to mix it up a bit doing higher mileage weeks.
These are bruisers of the heavy weight division, Tysons of the shoe world 🤣
My everyday barefoot shoes is a pair of Splay Explore that I actually forget about when I wear them, and are quite happily more capable than I expected on my road and woodsy trail walks. I also wanted barefoot-healthy boots that were mud/snow capable for yard, pasture and more off-roady hiking. I'm loving them more every time I use them.
Hi, I’ve heard of Splay shoes and just checked them out online - they look good with the foot shaped toe box and grippy outsole. How did they size - true to size for you?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I'd say they run a tad small. I wound up needing to exchange for one size up.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Adding a bit of detail I remembered; the way they were small for me was not in length (I have proportionally short-ish toes) but just too snug across the front of my mid-foot. Mine are the Explore style. The Freestyle ones that lace up might be more adjustable in that area.
Awesome review, nice to hear an honest appraisal of strengths and weaknesses. I'm thinking of buying a pair - if I can find a place that hasn't sold out.
Thank you, and I know what you mean about getting hold of a pair. Good luck I hope you find some because they are still one of my favourite pairs of barefoot shoes 🦶👍👌
Great review Ash!
I started wearing these in the shop, as a mechanic, because my traditional "mechanic type oxford" style shoes were hurting my knees. These cured that issue, and I could get a little over a year out of them, on gritty, oil covered, shop floors, before the soles were smooth flat in the ball of the foot area, and starting to get holes. I also wore them, as you say, as my daily shoes. When they got oil covered and dirty, I'd just use the pressure washer at work, while wearing them, and wash them! LOL Extremely durable! As @MarcVanderLinden says below, I think they are too thick and heavy to run in. Not that I couldn't run in them, I just choose to run in other shoes (FF's, Merrell Trail Gloves/Vapor Gloves, New Balance Minimus 10v1). They make a fantastic hiking and backpacking shoe. Very high quality shoe, and I'm a HUGE fan of them, as is my daughter.
Thanks Todd, yes I think they are a fun shoe to run in but for shorter distances - anything up to 10k, then the weight really starts to show. And thicker more ridged outsole is nice a lot of the time but sometimes it’s nice to have that real ‘barefoot’ feel of something like the VFF or Merrell.
It’s good that they helped with the knee pain you were getting, I wonder if it was the wider toe area than standard shoes, or more the zero drop and ground feel? Thanks for watching mate, hope you are doing ok 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes What I started to discover, was that the oxford style work shoes, with the traditional, hard, raised heel, were creating this "forward" loading on the knee, and also just sort of clunk in the stride, as that immovable, hard heel touched the ground first, while walking. Never really thought of it before, even though I've been running and hiking in FiveFingers since 2012, and was wearing the FF and Vivos as daily shoes. It finally occurred to me; Why am I wearing these at work (well...protection issues aside)? So I started wearing the Vivo's, and instantly, no more knee pain. A co-mechanic was having similar knee pain, and he was in cowboy boots every day, clunking around on those heels. I suggested he try a pair of his Vans "tennis shoes" and sure enough, no more knee pain. He started wearing his Vans, or his Converse "Chuck Tailors" from then on.
BTW, I'm doing great. Took 3 steps without crutches, on the 20th at 4wks post-op. Started out this week on Monday, 5wks post-op, by walking 250' on the sidewalk in front of my house. Today I'm walking around in the house, without crutches. Not bad for only being mid 5th week.
That’s brilliant going from 3 steps without support last we to 250(!!) this week sounds like your recovery is going really well.
And that is so interesting that both you and your work colleague’s knee pain was gone as soon as you both switched to flat, zero-drop, shoe for walking around and working in all day. I wonder how many other people could benefit from this knowledge. I’m still wearing an old battered pair of Altra Torins for working on our panel van to RV conversion and painting and decorating work. I was going to swap to these Vivos to wear for working in when they worn down and were no good for running/casual, but I think I may be waiting a while. As the durability standing up incredibly well.
Glad you are doing well 😁👍
Enjoyed the video, I’m sure I’ll try them at some point but I’ve run in my primus lite 111’s throughout winter with no worries and are my go to shoe for everything running , going out wether it’s shopping or the office although out of the box they were so white I needed sunglasses now they are more of a sepia cream colour,. But I love them by far the best running shoes I’ve had and it’s been many.
Thanks Michael, I had the Primus Lite too at the same time as I ordered these. They are really good looking shoes - even better than these possibly - a bit more refined and less chunky. It’s good that you like the Lites so much. I love these Trails for getting out on the trails, and just about every other casual situation too.
I think the Vivo Primus range are really good shoes, with the added bonus of being excellent to run in, almost as a bonus 👍
The Primus Lite's are definitely my favorite as well (just bought a 2nd pair!), with the Xero HFS a close second, but they're mainly a road shoe. On trails, they have very little grip, and the sole is so thin that it's almost painful running over acorns and especially sharp gravel. This is where the Firm Ground (FG) excels, though at the price of a little extra weight. If the Vivo Decon FGs hadn't just been released, I would've bought these slightly cheaper classic FGs instead for the trails.
@@JasonFarrell I really like the look of the HFS from Xero - really interesting design for road running. I had a pair of Prio years ago off eBay but they didn’t fit so I sold them on, but I prefer the look of the HFS and think they would suit me better.
I tend to buy second hand. I find deals every now and then from people who barely get into barefoot shoes and didn’t give enough time to adjust
@@martinzendejas8423 Yes I bought some Vivobarefoot Gobi’s in tan recently for a wedding from eBay. Didn’t want to spend a lot, as I rarely wear smart shoes/boots anymore, but wanted to look good. I bought a pair of ‘normal’ black brogues (wingtips) for a funeral a couple of years back secondhand and found them incredibly uncomfortable and passed them on to charity immediately after I’d worn them for one day. There is also Vivos own Revivo shop which is a good idea too, mainly returns from their 100 day trial I think were, like you say, people didn’t get on wearing them
Interesting and well made review Ash, as ever! I also have a pair of these, and while I LOVE them for everyday use, I find them relatively heavy for running (and I have logged a fair amount of miles). Another issue iss volume: I had to remove the inner soles for my feet not to be compressed and pinched (especially at the contact between my foot and my toes). By comparison, though probably even less barefoot strictly speaking, I prefer my xero shoes
Would you get the Mesa Trail II for trail races over these Vivo's for an ultra?
Thank you Marc, yes there isn’t a massive amount of volume - particularly top to bottom in the foot-to-toe area, and where they crease makes it worse. I still think despite these issues and not being able to run in them without socks they are a really fun shoe. I saw a first 4 week impressions video released today by Move More Now James Neilsen he said a similar thing regarding removing the insole to get them to fit better. And due to not living close to the trails I’ve used them a lot more for walking in, for which they are fantastic, but the fun in them has definitely been on the trails 😁
Out of interest which Xero shoes do you have? How have you found the sizing of Xero shoes?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I have a pair of HFS, so not the best for trail only, but actually very versatile on a variety of terrain. The sizing guide on their website is v good: I followed their instructions and got the right ones for me. At the difference of the vivobarefoot, a lot of volume, but I get a great lock thanks to their lacing system
@@TadeuszCantwell I only a pair of HFS, so cannot really comment on the grip of the mesa trails, but from a comfort point of view, the xero are a better fit for me
@@marcvanderlinden7618 Thanks Marc, that’s very helpful. I’ve checked out the sizing guide and I’m really tempted with the HFS 😁👍
I’ve these shoes and I prefer them for general wear, not trail running. However I did have an issue with the Primus Trail SG - the rubber rand issue you mention rubbing your little toe on extension occurs in those. I’ve tried different insoles, no insoles and the problem remains. Vivo really need to sort this design flaw out.
Yes I’m hoping when the lll version come out the design flaw is addressed because I really like pretty much everything else about these shoes. I’m considering getting another pair as the ones in this video are about done. Waiting for some more interesting colours to be released.
What’s your go to trail runners atm Anni? I’ve a pair of Freet Feldom and Vibram V-Alpha but haven’t had the chance to take any of them out on the trails just yet. Got a feeling both pairs might be a bit small size wise 😬
Same 😢😑🫠!
Very thorough review. I’ve owned a pair of Vapor Glove 5’s for 2 months, my first barefoot shoe. Was thinking about getting the Vivo’s but I’m not sure now. I might just go for the Vapor Glove 6. Much cheaper and lighter.
Thank you Chris, yes I’ve seen the Vapor Glove 6 on line and a few reviews of them and they look really good. These Vivos Trails are definitely more durable than my Vapor Glove 4, however if you like the Vapor Glove 5 and like the fit and ground feel - go for the 6 and let me know what they are like 🤣
Seriously I really like my VG 4, a lot of people have said they are too narrow, but they suit my foot shape really well. And if the 5 suit you probably be good to try the 6. I think Vivo do a 100 day trial (check the website as not sure this is relevant in every country) so there may be that option too, if you wanted to give the Vivos a go 👍
Great review Ash 👌
As you know I also have a pair of these shoes...infact I have two pairs! My first pair got so wet, muddy and worn in that I wanted a second pair for as you mention, every day use. I went for the sock version on the second pair and have been really impressed with them. I actually went to the Vivobarefoot shop in Central London to get them which was a great experience 😀 I realise that I actually prefer to have something under my feet instead of feeling everything and so the minimal ground feet isn't a factor for me. As I suffer from an arthritic condition that effects my ankles, I no longer run in barefoot shoes but I really do love wearing them for everyday use 🙃
Hey Phil, thanks very much. Yes I’ve seen the ones I have atm are discounted to £98 on the Vivo website and am tempted to get another pair, but I’m wondering if they are discounted because the version III is about to be released, which would interesting to compare the two. The All Weather Knit version for sale now is the III and they look niiiice. Also the standard knit version comes in better colours imo.
We went into the store in London a few years back, in fact I think it was before my youngest daughter was born, that would have been at least 5 years ago, and the store set up was fantastic, but the stock was pretty erratic back then and neither Jodie, myself or Edie could get sizes in shoes we liked. I’m glad they have sorted that stock issue - supply and demand.
And yes atm I’m definitely using these more as an everyday shoe, in fact that’s very accurate, as I’m pretty much wearing them everyday! Than running in as my marathon training is on the roads, so using road shoes. I’m also reaching for my Altra Torin a lot more for my runs after a long run in barefoot shoes. Finding it nice to mix it up between barefoot and cushioned for the volume of running in my training plan 🏃🦶👟👌
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes For sure mate. Mixing up the Altra's and the Vivo's is really working well for me too! Good luck with the Marathon.. when is race day?
@@trailrunningphil Cheers Phil, yes mixing it up seems to be working well with the volume atm. London is on the 23rd April, exactly 3 weeks before Shires, so at least I’ll have done some training this time 😁 how’s your training going?
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Erm well im not fitting in the mileage distances on my training programme but keeping up with strength, conditioning and mobility along with one faster running work out per week so fairly happy with it all.
the sock version ? you mean the knit version ?
Amazing review
Thanks very much 😊👍
Great review. I have a pair and found these really stiff on the pinky toes, I think the stiff side panel adds to the pressure and actually needed to gently heat that area with a hair dryer to shape it outwards a little. They definitely do lack lateral flex but that rigidity does help on very rocky terrain. I also had the previous version of these and they held up for 1000+ miles which it’s great value.
I have since found my perfect trail barefoot shoe, the Freet feldom, super comfortable with loads of flex but enough grip and protection, can even add a rock plate if you need it too. Attempting my first ultra in them this May.
I do still love vivos though, I just wish they’d stop using such hard plastics, I also have the Primus Trail SG III which also pressed on the pinky toe and was generally uncomfortable from being so stiff, great for less than 10 mile very muddy runs though as it grips like nothing else.
Thanks Paul, you have great shoes for running in! I’ve checked out the Freet Feldom online and they look really good, I also like the look of their Flex shoe too as a casual everyday/summer shoe. I think Freet are getting some great shoes in their range now. I’ve a couple of pairs, and went out for a 5 miler in the Freet Pace on Tuesday.
That’s good advice too, regarding applying some heat to the Vivo Trails. Did this soften them permanently, or to remould them? I like hacks like this that make running shoes more comfortable 😁 And I hope for the next version of the Vivo Trail they address that area around the pinkie toe, as it is the biggest downfall of the design (along with the weight) for me as well. Despite the flaws they have still love getting out on the trails in them - as you must have with over a 1000 miles in the original versions! 😁 It will be interesting to see what the updates for the 3rd version will be. I see these version II are on sale at £98 atm so I reckon the version 3 can’t be far away 👍
Thanks very much for commenting and sharing your experiences running these and other barefoot shoes - very much appreciated 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes It was the thick section of the outer panel that pokes into the bend area I give a little heat to make sure it bent outward instead of into my little toe. I just heated it enough not to burn me and bend it with my foot in the shoe until cooled.
I’d definitely give the Feldoms a go, Freets QC can be a bit hit and miss, but seems to be getting better now. That said I’ve probably got at least 350miles on them with the uppers still in great shape and the sole has minimal wear. I think Freets last shape it’s much better than vivo too, enough width without being too long and a bit less pointy.
Get Xero Mesa trail and you'll never look back. Freet outsoles lack grip.
@@CptAngelKGaming I’ve had Mesa trails actually, the toebox shape is just not wide enough for my foot shape and the sole actually detached after less than 200 miles. The Freet feldoms and a sole with much deeper lugs than their other shoe and can say I’ve fully tested them on everything the British winter has to offer.
@@CptAngelKGaming Really interesting so many people recommending the Xero Mesa 👍
very similar experience with these. mine are slightly small so i wear them without the insoles and its mostly good but i wouldn't wear them without socks. this is why slightly prefer the xero hfs and mesa trail, which are definitely less fashionable but more forgiving in the fit
Surprised how many people are saying they use them without the insole for a better fit. I can’t wear them without socks, which isn’t too much of an issue as I normally wear socks anyway for longer runs.
I do like the look of the Xero HFS they area great looking shoe, how are they for road running?
i really like the hfs for road running. they're the road version of the mesa trail
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes HFS is probably the best road running shoe you can get. Better than VG and Vivo.
@@CptAngelKGaming Great looking shoe too the Xero HFS 🤩
The issues I have with Xero Shoes are, as we are no longer part of Europe 😡 they are sent from America to the UK, so if the size is off they need to go back to the US. The second is the sizing. I did have a pair of Prio years ago off eBay (because they were not available in the Uk back then) I went up a size because I knew they come up small, and they were tiny.
If they were easier to get hold of I’d definitely have one or two pairs of Xero for running in 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes
there is a third party xero uk site that the Xero CEO said will soon get bought by Xero and become the official Xero uk retailer.
As far as sizing, I wear half a size bigger than my Vivo on my HFS. Vivos are long and narrow while Xeros are shorter and wider with much more volume in the toebox.
So if you have plenty of space on your Vivos, just go up half a size for the HFS and you'll be fine. If your Vivos are very snug, you can go up a full size on the HFS.
What I love about our vivo vegan recycled shoes is that you can chuck them into the washing machine for a quick wash, come out like new :) There is a Russell Brand podcast with Galahad Clark (creator of vivobarefoot) if anyone is interested. Agree about the narrow toe box size, I think all vivo shoes can do with a bit more wriggle room around the toe and pinky area.
Thanks, yes loving the Vivo Primus Trail. And I’ve washed them a lot of times recently. Thanks for the heads up on that podcast, I’ll check it out 👍🦶🙌
Great review! Although I would like to know whether you sized up or sized down? I measured at an 11 and when I received the shoes, I had a lot more room I was comfortable with. I’m a bit reluctant to order the 10 because what if they’re too small, I’d love to hear what you think!
@@vincentrodriguez8436 Hi Vincent, thank you. Size wise I actually have these in a size M42 (which is a UK 8 or US 9) and my Vibram Five Fingers I wear a 43 and was a 43 when I wore Adidas and Altra too, so I’d try a 10 and see how you get on with those against the 11. Vivo have a 100 day return policy too so you can see which one you feel more comfortable in and return the other.
Right now my every day walking and everything shoes are a pair of zero sandals that are super thin called aqua clouds, and then the super thinnest KO five fingers. I do a food delivery at night and that’s what I wear now if you’re going out drinking people are drinking they probably don’t care what’s on your feetthe only other problem with the five fingers is the trail is once in a while you’ll run into a stump and they hurt so that’s it great
I’ve list checked out the Aqua Cloud online - super minimal 👌 and the KSO’s I love the look of those, I need to get me a pair. I tried on a pair of V-Trail a while back but it felt like I was in between sizes so didn’t bother, then someone on here said they feel a bit short but do give after a couple of runs 🤷♂️ I went for the V-Alpha in the end. Haven’t been out in them yet but looking forward to trying them on the road and trails. Where in the world are you based Todd? I can’t imagine wearing sandals in the UK it’s just too wet this time of year
Thank you for this!
I am/was looking for a new everyday / city /errands / gym shoe, came across Vivo and wondered if they would be worth a try - I think it does look it ;)
Hi thanks very much, I’m glad the review helped. Hope you like the Vivo Trail when you get them. I’m wearing them today there are such a good all round universal shoe 👌😁
Thank you for the review. Just wish the price was slightly more reasonable. Minimal materials but high price
Thanks for your comments, yes they are expensive shoes - and an expensive brand in general, but they seemed to be good quality and really durable too, which I guess comes at a premium. I think they are on offer for less that £100 atm which is good 👍
@@arnoldd7073 Nice one, I hope you get lots of enjoyment out of them 👍 happy running 🦶👌
Love mine , have had 2 pairs
But they have worn out far too fast , especially in light of the now £140 price tag
Yes love mine too, but the price is an issue.
The pair I’m wearing now are trashed so I’m wearing them for work as a painter and decorator. The only things putting me off getting another pair are the price and the fact that other barefoot brands are upping their game and putting out great shoes at more affordable prices.
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes absolutely agree. I have expensive tastes, and usually am willing to Spend if it meets my needs , but I’m really struggling to justify buying another pair
I wasn’t very satisfied with my conversation with one of the help team. They offered me a new pair and said my feedback would be passed on but I feel like I wasn’t really heard. Nobody is going to give me a response .
They do have a 6 months thing but it’s not covering wear. There’s also the 100 day return offer but I feel that might not be enough time to gauge how fast they are wearing out , especially at the time of year they are purchased . It is pretty good though i will give them that .
I was just outside the 6 month time frame and they were willing to accommodate. But saying that , it was not a defect it was wear , so don’t think it would matter if it was in the 6 months .
I don’t know if I will take them up on their offer of a new free pair because it’s the principal of the thing. I would rather have an acknowledgment from the company that the value to longevity MAY be unfair and that they will either drop their prices or raise the quality .
I was trying to say ok, what happens if I’m given a new pair , and they wear out the same and I complain within 3-6 months , will I be given new pairs over and over ? Have a found a potential loophole that could be abused ? Well, it’s not really being abused if the wear is in my opinion not acceptable in relation to the price and amount of use .
I think the answer is no. This was just a one time good will gesture.
So I think (I could be wrong) if they wear out quick there is nothing they will do other than pass on feedback or possibly be willing to offer a discount like they did in the beginning before I pressed them harder or a one time goodwill pair .
I am willing to accept that I might have a unique set of variables that has caused the fast wear. I use them for casual use, most every day, and had a low average amount of steps (less than 5000 I think ) . I was told they are really intended for trails not concrete , which I accepted might be a very fair point , but when I went back to look at the marketing spiel it seems to be saying they are specifically for trails but can be used just about anywhere and on different surfaces . No warnings about concrete wearing them faster.
I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt and would be willing to try primus lites or something that is intended for concrete/tarmac, to test if they can stand up to my usage.
I’m pretty positive other brands of trainers have lasted me approx twice as long at half the price (maybe much more)
Don’t let me put anyone off buying a pair , please do try them if you fancy them. If you’re not on the heavier side (I’m about 16.5 stone) and you don’t wear them everyday , they will probably last you 2-4 years . But for me, I get about 6 months or less and the lugs in a coupe spots have worn right down and I’m at the point where I feel I can’t trust them anymore . It will be a matter of time before they wear right through and stones and water can get in like the first pair I bought.
I’m saying time in months , but it doesn’t really work like that either. I’m pretty active during spring summer and obviously much less active in the winter.
I love most things about the shoe, but I’m really looking for something that’s bomb proof and will last forever , and I AM willing to pay for it if someone will make it.
Overall I like vivo . I know running a company can’t be easy . I know you can’t please everyone . I know you have to make profit . The 100 days trial is good . I kind of feel the company are so big /powerful that my little voice likely isn’t taken seriously (that could be a false assumption, maybe there are people in a room somewhere looking at the photos and step count I sent in with soberness )
They are a bit of a lot overpriced. But then there is a whole psychology and business structure around that that people but into , like iPhones . And in some ways, the higher prices go back into making better products , or customer service, or no quibble returns etc etc.
I have had a look around but there’s not many other barefoot shoes that I fancy trying. Maybe some of the xero but I don’t think they are in uk. Lems might have been another but not sure they are in uk either. Vivos are one of the “coolest “ 😎 shoes if not the coolest. I like the branding , the look of the shoe , etc etc, and again , people will pay for that .
So I dunno , I’m just rambling away here. I’m a barefoot convert and don’t want to go back to regular trainers but I’m not sure where to go from here .
A lot of the vivos have similar looking tread that’s on primus trail 2. I would need something heavier duty to get me through the year confidently but I don’t really want to be wearing boots in the summer.
These are my favorite barefoot shoes and they look like indoor soccer/futbol shoes
They are my favourite too, just about worn mine out now wearing them pretty much everyday and looking to get another pair. And yes they do look like indoor soccer shoes 😁👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes
Im going to resole mine with either Vibram Zegama or Kletterlift soles
@@curanderoverde Oo sound good! Let me know if you get them resoled and how it feels 👍
For me thay are looking perfect. I had merrell vapor glove and after month they are unwearable. Outsole was completely gone.
These are much more durable than the Vapor Glove 👍
Yeah but that cost 170 euro. It's really annoying because i can't find anything else so probably will end up buying something from vivo.
@@sebakrol3433 They are expensive, however I bought mine for running and wear them pretty much as everyday shoes, and still for running too. So I found them good value despite the initial cost 👍🦶
like your style, subscribed
Thank you 🙏 👍
What about the knit version, I imagine they are lighter and more flexible.
I think the knit may be a bit lighter and not so built up on the inside above the arch . I did actually end up running the 35 mile Ultra Trail Marathon in these Trail FG ll and the weight wasn’t an issue👍
These black boots are totally worn out, I am buying the same model again today, The mention of some unnecessary weight due to the lacing is quite subjective to the point of embarrassment. In practical use, both plastic elements used to tighten the laces are necessary. In all my several years I have not felt any excess weight, if I had it I would take the insole out of my shoe
Fair enough, I did run a 35 mile ultra marathon in them this weekend and the weight wasn’t an issue at all. So maybe not so much of a problem after all. Video on that coming out this evening 👍
My everyday shoe is the Xero Prio, Denver leather, or a pair of wildlings. Not the biggest fan of bigger trail lugs for everyday wear.
I bought a pair of Prio years ago from eBay, before they were readily available in the UK and I sized up but they were tiny. I’d really like to try the HFS though, that’s an interesting shoe. I also have Wildlings and they are really really good summer shoes 👌
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes I've heard recent Xero shoes are better at matching the size guides compared to older runs. The HFS is what I do 95% of my running in, absolutely love them. Got a pair of speedforce on sale that I bring out sometimes.
@@TadeuszCantwell Thank you, theHFS look really good 👍
is it slippery when you walk on the wet floor?
The grip is just ok on wet asphalt and pavement, but it’s really good on wet gravel trails and grass. They’d be fine for walking 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes how do feel about driving in vivos? i bought some tracker decons and found them dangerously slippy on the pedals if it was wet outside so i returned them, do they wear in a bit from new after a few miles of use?
@@jimbob1222 Hi, I’ve never had any issues with driving in these, and I’ve worn them more for everyday use - like walking and driving than I have running. Plus living in the UK it feels like it rains more than it’s clear weather 😊👍
Do you have any thoughts on the Merrell trail 7? Seem well priced and good in between the vivo and vibram but have read people are unhappy with them having arch support
Hi Arnold, I’ve not tried the Merrell Trails Gloves, but one of the guys who comments on my videos (ToddM) really rates them and says they are very good shoes 👍
Hola, quiero comprar estos Vivobarefoot, vengo de usar FiveFingers en los dos últimos años, y las suelas Vibram tienen gran agarre. Estas Vivobarefoot qué tal son en mojado?
Gracias por la review. Tienes un nuevo seguidor.
Hola Luis, mi Espanol es muy poco 😊
Estos Vivobarefoot Trail FG son muy buenos en el mojado y en los senderos - Es mi zappatos favorita!
In English;
Hi Luis, my Spanish is very little.
These vivobarefoot Trail FG are very good in the wet and on the trails - they are mi favourite shoes! Also I’ll add (I don’t know how to say this in español) they get better the more they are worn and feel more comfortable, I wear them just about every day 👍😁🦶
Muchos gracias Luis 🙏
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes Muchas gracias a ti, me los compraré. Por cierto te defiendes muy bien en español. Ojalá lo hiciera yo también en inglés. Pero...
Un abrazo 🤗 desde Asturias.
How do these hold up when running on regular concrete surfaces, particularly when it comes to traction?
Hi, they are not terrible on roads and concrete, but not brilliant either. They are heavy and the bases feel hard and unforgiving underfoot. There is a link in the video to where I run 10 miles through the city streets in them, check that out for more on how I got on in those conditions in these Vivos. Or if you search ‘Can you run 10 miles on city streets in the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail’ you’ll see the video. Cheers 👍
ua-cam.com/video/U8BdPYqwr7I/v-deo.html
Has the Primus Lite 3 the Same flex??
Or stiffer??
I mean the sole
Yes the Primus Lite and Primus Knit both have similar flexibility as the Primus Trail, definitely not noticeably stiffer 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes uhhh,.thanks.
You answer so quick.
Very nice
Can you wear these comfortably walking in the city?
Yes perfectly comfortable walking in the city, I use them a lot for daily dog walks and going into town etc and I live in a city 👍
@skinnylegsbarefootshoes thank you,that helps alot!
How long is your longest foot in cm? Which size do you use in five fingers?
Hi my longest foot is around 27.2cm and in the five fingers v-run I’m a 43 👍
I'm looking at getting a pair of these, not for running just everyday use. Are the soles hard wearing? As I've had a pair of addidas terrex and the soles are worn within 4 month! I over pronate and just wonder if wearing barefoot shoes would resolve that issue, and these wiuld be my first pair of barefoot shoes. Great review.
Thanks very much, I’ve found them really hardwearing - and they also feel better the more they are worn, losing a bit of the initial plasticy feel which is nice. Shoes do tend to last me pretty well (probably because of how skinny I am) but I did go through the soles on a pair of Adidas and Hokas too before going solely to barefoot shoes.
If these are your first pair of barefoot shoes they are a good place to start. Like anything new they take a bit of getting used to, but I’m really happy with them, and even though I have more miles running in other barefoot shoes these are definitely the ones I reach for for everyday use. If you get s pair I hope you like them as much as I like mine, be interested in knowing how they work with your over pronation, let me know how you get on 👍
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes i shall do
@@skinnylegsbarefootshoes im a uk 9 have wide feet anyway and there web site says they run small and they have upped me to a 10 uk, does this sound about right in your experience?
@@zenmonkey0702 Yes I’d go with what they say 👍
@@zenmonkey0702did you try them ?
I have extra wide feet so have been hesitant to try Vivo since many say they are narrower than other barefoot brands.
Yer they are not the widest, I think Lems do good shoes for wider feet. The Vivos used to do a 100 day return though so if that is still available and you wanted to try it could be an option 👍
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes I just got a pair of Softstar Primal Runamocs. I am anxious to try those out before I try anything else. They are super minimal, soft, and feel like a glove on my feet.
@@mamabear9389 Cool, hadn’t heard of those before, just checked them out online and they look awesome. Very minimal, which I like, be interested to hear how you get on with them 👍
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes I look forward to trying them out, however I am not a runner so I would not be able to comment on that aspect. I do mainly light trail walking. I got the sole that is thinner for more flexibility, however they offer a thicker mega grip sole also. I am not sure if the mega grip sole would be better for running. You may want to read through the comments on their website for feedback from runners. However, after I give them a good try I will try to update you.
@Skinny Legs, Barefoot Shoes Just wanted to let you know I tried these shoes a couple time walking light trails and pastures. I love them! I feel like I have nothing on. The leather is so soft and they are like gloves for feet. I do not think they would be very good in muddy wet conditions though and I cannot comment yet on durability. I typically wear my barefoot boots when it is muddy and wet.
Wilding shoes forever.
Love these shoes, also have a pair of Wildling shoes too Takumi great shoes 👍
Despite your summary they sound expensive flawed shoes
Understandable, but despite them having a couple of flaws they are still my most worn pair of shoes. They are pretty much flat in the bottom as all the grip has worn of and covered in paint from my day job, but I still wear them every day for work, I just wear socks with them. Hoping the ‘3’ version addresses the flaws as they will be pretty much perfect then 👍