I have switched to barefoot shoes for everyday use..after 48 years of wearing normal shoes..it has been very painful experience. I am sticking to the change.
This was so helpful and informative. If you could put the suggested models in the description and use chapters with timestamps it would make this the absolute best Vivo video on UA-cam.
I've had my bracken Forest Trackers for about two months, felt like home from the first time I put them on. I wanted a foot-healthy boot for work on the property & woodlot, and hikes with rougher terrain, mud or snow. So far they're fitting that bill beautifully. So thank you, Fergus, for your development contributions! The ONLY problem I've had with them was toward the end of a pretty mountain-y, strenuous hike when the lace hook on one boot snagged the laces of the other and I took a face-plant. No real harm done, just a scraped knee and tender spots on my cheek & brow. I am SO thankful it happened after we were down out of the steep rocky parts of the trail!
I’m making the transition into barefoot footwear, especially in working out. I now use them for working as a nurse as well. But I will also still wear cowboy boots partly for my style and partly for the protection and harder work. I still see the benefit of barefoot shoes overall but don’t feel like I gave up a part of my personality either.
I've never had an issue with these either. I've had my Primus Lite's for over a year now and I can honestly say that after a good clean they look almost brand new. Great to lift in too, only issue I do have is that the insole rides back
Wow, I thought my six pairs was excessive! Been wearing vivos for almost three years now. Started at work, easy enough to find a pair that are fine with a suit. My feet felt better straight away. I used a standing desk so my feet tended swell before. One advantage you didn't mention is warmth. Last winter in my unheated garage in barefeet gave me chillblains. I felt so old. Next winter will be in Vivos and some trainer socks.
I bought some Tracker Forests after seeing you'd used them for Nevis, just been to Loch Tay for a week and can say they performed admirably, can't imagine myself wearing traditional boots ever again!
I have the Hykes Pinnacle and love them, best shoes I've ever owned and I will never go back to restricted regular shoes. After only a couple months my feet feel so much stronger.
Hey everyone! Hope you enjoy the video 👊🏼 Please let me know if you have any questions on anything I have covered here, and I’ll do my best to respond below 👇🏼
Great review / advice Fergus, 4 pairs myself, magna trails are go to. If they do the forest tracker in black / obsidian I’ll buy immediately! Never had one issue with quality or unusual wear. Much easier to get on then five finger shoes too. Thanks for taking the time on this, might add some more formal shoes in the future.
Wish VivoBarefoot restocked their shoes more often. I’m new to barefoot shoes and I’ll be buying my first pair next month through Vivo and I’m super excited since I rarely buy new shoes (the last pair I bought were Adidas Ultraboost in early 2018 and I still wear them they smell lol). I’d like to make a 6-8 week transition, like you mentioned in the video, to barefoot shoes as a health improvement along with a lifestyle boost as well since I have foot pain from working at my part time job. I plan on incorporating these awesome shoes while going to the gym with my friend on the weekdays or just casually for outside day to day errands so I can get used to them. I believe in the statistic of wearing VivoBarefoot shoes as it can “…strengthen feet muscles by 60% in 6 months…”as stated by their videos on UA-cam. I’m currently a few days into being 20 years old and I want to extend by lifespan and health span as much as possible and I truly believe that I can improve my quality of life with these. Looking forward to when *THEY FINALLY GET IN STOCK*
Their supply chain has been massively affected by COVID, they are amidst a factory transition, and refuse to air freight their stock for the sake of the environment impact = stock issues. They have 4 stock ordering windows a year due to the nature of their consolidated supply chain for the sake of their sustainability, so the stock issues are contrary to the immediate access world we live in, but do have a purpose in a sense! My suggestion would be to keep an eye out on stock landing and snap it up as and when, as restocking is not a speedy process due to the above - hope that sheds some light on it a little!
I had a nasty pain at my achilles tendon, plantar fasciitis and the foot was going inwards. I couldn't walk for 1,5 years, I was in pain even lying on bed. My ABC chiropractor insisted in switching to barefoot shoes but I didn't pay any attention (I found them ugly and expensive). During the first 5 minutes I wore barefoot shoes, the pain was vanished! It's been 3 months since then, the transitioning was awesome, didn't have any pain but the exact opposite! I do some strength exercises for the ankles and feet muscles too and I feel great!
Bought myself a pair of primus lites and love them - wear them for day to day, some gym sessions and walks - absolutely love them and must’ve done 200+ miles now, love using them as part of my rotation with mixture of drops in running/training shoes - only thing is would size down! I’m 10.5UK and got 11 but should’ve gone for size 10 Great video again, can’t wait to get myself some FG trail
I just ordered my first two pairs, the Tracker Forest for hiking in the Rockies of Alberta and the primus lite. I’m curious to see how the Tracker Forest hold up to our mountains and cold. I haven’t seen any Canadian reviews so just took a leap of faith and ordered them.
If i walk 20,000 steps a day around the concrete jungle of NYC - is it bad to wear barefoot shoes all day? or better to cycle with other kinds of shoes with more cushion?
Great video how I transitions was I actually learned how to run a little bit barefoot because I even felt that even the shoes I run in five fingers and even the shoes the thinnest ones you can get are still shoes I mean, there’s there’s still hindering some part of your form and make sure you’re really doing everything right I thought it was important to learn barefoot and go for a run. Pull off my shoes 100 yards next day. See how my feet felt if I had blisters. I would figure out why if my legs would pull my shoes off for a couple hundred yards got that over when I could actually run barefoot for about 6 miles minimal and I’ve been fine ever since I have run every brand I’ve tried and I including Sandals actually my preference. But I would say anybody can learn this and not just the strength you’re all altogether feeling of running walking being connected to this world we live in is phenomenal. Nothing like it but you gotta put in the time. First
Got some magna fgs and they're coming apart between the upper and sole in a matter of days. I really think they should've stitched instead of glued as I have seen quite a lot of people with this issue
Good timing, Fergus - I'm due a birthday present for myself and some new shoes...! One question: would these grip nicely on flat pedals for (by your standards) casual cycling? I'm especially thinking about the Primus Lites. Thanks a lot!
On another review they said the magna trail (not the leather FG version ) was great for cycling as well as everything else . Which caught my eye as I used to use berghaus goretex shoes and if I remember correctly they were not good for cycling . Maybe the leather FG version will be similar . It’s also supposed to be more waterproof than the trail apparently
Die hard Vivo guy here in US. Always have people asking what they are. Sad they pulled out of stores here. Can remember driving 3 hours to only store in region and buying my years worth of shoes (3-5 pairs). Shipping takes 21-30 days now :-(
I have a sizing question or two. So I am a 47 in Scott, Borough and Primus Lite 3 which are all pretty rounded at toe box. I am a 48 in Tracker FG 2 which is much fore narrow. What size would you recommend for the following? Primus trail knit FG Primus Lite knit Tracker Forest ESC Magna Forest ESC Thanks for the review! I feel like I’m probably a 47.5 which is obviously not an option. But I just want to see what you wear and if you have variations in your sizing.
Great video Fergus. Big shortage in shoes and sizes but I managed to bag a set of magnus boots. Thanks for the code and looking forward to trying them out. I'll go easy for the first while as suggested. The odd dog walk perhaps!
The nature of their supply chain, and refusal to air freight due to the environmental impact means its an ongoing challenge - but for a good reason! Great to heat, hope you get on well with them, let me know!
Great video. A question, how can traditional running shoes not be bad as you said when they are constricting and pushing the toes together, and also disabling the natural flexion of the foot of our arch? Appreciate the unbiased video and wide viewed approach. Thanks, Alex
Thanks Alex! They are ‘bad’ in terms of allowing the foot to function naturally for sure, but with perception of fatigue reduced from some foam technology, and carbon plate tech = speed, they have some inherent benefits. It’s a case of mitigating the bad by wearing more of the good, OR, a happy middle ground is Altra (which I wear mostly). Proper running form + time in barefoot shoes to help spread our toes and strengthen our feet should balance out the bad from wearing running shoes for the specific purpose of running (which is significantly less show % time overall). Hope that makes sense!
@@ferguscrawley95 really insightful reply, thanks for that! Also those all black trail boots look insanely nice ha! Would definitely get a pair if they offered those on the website. Thanks again, new sub.
Hi Fergus, it doesn't deal with this video, but I would love hearing from you about supplementation for hybrid athletes (if you use any) especially for recovery and joints health, and training week designing. I already lift and do some casual run, but you convinced me to go "full-hybrid" and try to achieve some better number in running. Thanks for what you do and best wishes!
I am 64 years old and tried to transition years ago and I guess I over did it ... so I developed plantar fasciitis... then took months to heal, I have since tried so many shoes and of course ended up with thickly padded shoes ... but I am now learning about grounding and the history of shoes and how "they" changed the design of shoes so we are not close or grounding to Mother Earth. I have a gravel driveway and parking area .... will I be able to walk on small rocks? Or will it be painful? Please advise .... thx .. 😊
Hi Fergus, thanks for making this video. I’ve only just stumbled across yourself and barefoot training recently. As someone who has started training in a somewhat powerlifting style in the last year or so, I discovered that there might be benefits from this type of footwear through the squat university UA-cam channel. I would like to try out these shoes particularly for squatting as my Adidas power lifts feel very narrow and I feel like I have good enough ankle mobility I don’t need the raised heel. Can I request that you make up a wee list of the shoes and note which ones in particular are best for squats and deadlift? 🙏🏼 I know you mentioned it in the video but would be helpful to see them listed. Many thanks!
Hey man, the beauty of the shoes is that because they are all zero drop and with a thin, non-intrusive sole, every model except the ESC range will be perfect for lifting in - so then it's up to you which ones you prefer the look of! The Primus Lite is the most popular for day to day gym use, but is a little harsher to get used to than a FG sole - so it's really up to you!
Hi fergus . Only got 4 pairs myself . My favourites are my leather treks sadly no discontinued. Been wearing them for 3yrs now . Geo racer . Primus trail and tracker boots . I dread to think about going back to regular trainers
As a healthcare worker on my feet periodically for 12hrs/shift, would you recommend Vivos to people that are always on their feet? I’m currently rocking the max cushioned Hoka Bondi 6 but I’m looking into barefoot shoes as a possible alternative in the near future.
Hi I’m in healthcare too and wear them all day. I started my transition because of planta facia pain/ bunions. Although I’m still working on that, I felt so much better at the end of a shift even after a few weeks. I had mild pain on the top of my feet initially after I’d been sitting for while, which actually took a year to go. But that was something I was willing to put up with for the extra energy I gained from switching. For me it’s been life changing. There are some really great barefoot shoe companies out there.
Hi , any experience of sole wear ? I have a 6 month old pair of FG trail , unfortunately I have worn the forefoots surface down completely, I run 10 miles a week , are the rubber compounds an issue ?
What shoes do you wear for road running (marathon or 1/2 marathon training)? Is it harmful to wear barefoot shoes for running or do you feel that the Primus Lite III could be worn for running? If not, what shoes do you recommend?
Hi Fergus, helpful vid - pleased to say I’m becoming a big fan of your content. Any chance you’ve a scooby about whether minimal shoes might suit those with low arches? I’ve had IT band issues in running owing to imbalance so your points of alignment has me thinking
Thanks man, and yes, low arches are generally speaking weak arches, so a really cautious transition to more time in barefoot shoes should definitely pay off in the long run!
8 months ago I started learning Olympic lifting, the coach recommended riser shoes (big heel lift) it’s created problems with my patellar tendons so I reverted back to powerlifting and regular gym work. Still having a lot of knee pain and was considering going to zero rise shoes (on the basis it’s the opposite of what I did when I caused the knee probs). I’d welcome any thoughts on this and also which Vivo shoes are more suitable for this kind of gym training?
@@percrazie spoiler alert, Ben Patrick recommends squatting with riser shoes as well. the reality is it's super hard to maintain the ankle flexibility to squat properly in flat shoes, and for some people it may be biomechanically impossible. Nothing against Ben Patrick, I think his approach to training is fantastic. Just be prepared to elevate your heel *even more* and really hit that patellar tendon. The only solution is building strength through maximal range of motion.
@@jeremybuckets he doesn’t recommend squatting in riser shoes what are you talking about? He recommends doing some heel elevated squats so the knee can go further past the toes for strengthening them. A lot of athletes do heel elevated squats in their routine it doesnt mean they recommend it for all squats
I've worn barefoot shoes for 2 years now, so I'm not afraid of a learning phase. I'm trying to decide between the Addis Mens and the Primus Lite for a daily shoe (I typically wear one pair of shoes exclusively until they wear out). Any advice?
Hey man! I think best all rounder is the primus as you can use it to exercise in as well, whereas the Addis is more formal - but the sole is almost identical on them and they both last really well so it’s largely up to you!
I've been walking around in a couple of different barefoot shoes for about a year now and live them. Id like a similar feel running but nervous about using them for that. Do you have any reccomendations for other shoes? (I'm not knocking out long distance triathlons at the moment!)
Would you recommend the geo racer knit for weightlifting? I was leaning towards those because i like the look. I wanna get the first ones you mentioned as well
Hi Fergus I want to get barefoot shoes for work (as a teacher) - I see the Freet Citee looks fairly formal. Do you have experience with these shoes or even the brand?
Do you have a recommendation for the FIRST pair of men's vivobarefoot for Non-runner's as an ENTRY in the barefoot arena?. I wear Brooks running shoes DAILY(walking at track). How do we START to 'train our feet/ankles/calves' and which pair is closer to 'standard' running shoes?
I’ve been in barefoot shoes for over 10 years. Like you only wear ‘normal’ shoes if in a kilt, DJ or mountaineering. Great video 👍 Re the Tracker Forest (as I want to buy a pair). Can you or did you fir walking crampons? Thanks
@@ferguscrawley95 thank you so much for your help. Have a pair of ötillö and looking to get Tracker all weather, Tracker 2FG AND scott 3 eco. 👍. All the best
Hi Fergus, thinking of getting a pair of Vivos, but I've got very badly fallen arches, basically completely flat, would you still recommend these or should I put some inserts in them? Thank you in advance!!
Flat feet (generally speaking) are weak feet (no offence intended haha!) so very steadily increasing walking volume in vivos (without inserts) will improve your arches strength over time! In the same way people can rectify kyphosis with strength training their upper back, you can improve weak feet through strengthening them!
What a funny coincidence! I just started researching barefoot shoes. Great video by the way. What would you personally recommend for someone who only has the budget to buy one pair both for exercise and and daily use at university? Thanks a lot for the video!
@@TirnanHealy Thank you regardless. I'm happy to say you're spot on. I ordered the primus lite 3 in black yesterday, so while l beat you to the chase I still thank you for taking time to make a recommendation.
@@GandaBaer I think the original unedited comment was worded in a way made it seem like he was asking for only one pair of shoes for both active wear and daily wear, I could be wrong, I might have mis-read it
I’m used to running in a more minimal shoe, what are the best Vivos to run in on the road? Also they’re often out of stock online on all makes, will they have new ones soon?
Best starting point is Primus Trail FG variation I reckon my man. And the stock issue is due to the nature of their supply chain, transitioning across to a new factory, and refusal to air freight product for the sake of their environmental impact - best thing to do is jump on stock when it lands!
Yep! Mention them in the video - have 4 pairs! They’re great for various reasons, but couldn’t cope with calf volume off the bike for long distance triathlons hence why I opted for a little drop height sometimes.
@@GregHowe420 Altras are for sure a good starting point to try - no reason you can’t play around with Altras for shorter runs and then keep the Hokas on for longer stuff etc!
Geo racer mens vs Primus Lites on everyday use/lifting? Also naturally im a size 8 but the size guide is guiding me towards a size 7, any thoughts on this? do you wear your natural size for these shoes? Cheers
So i'm looking to try a pair of Vivobarefoot shoes but which would someone say is a good one to start with for a casual day to day wear? thanks for in advance.
Cheers Fergus. Great video 👍🏼 I’m one of the 1%-ers looking to make those small changes towards my holistic wellbeing improvements. Really got a lot of quality information to help make my decision in which barefoot shoe brand to go with 🦶🏼Nice one!
Tried to order the Tracker forest esc today and they are out of stock until next year! 🥲 is that that your fault Fergus? 😂 ended up going for the Tracker 2. My current Trackers which I’ve been wearing for the last year have split and leak where the foot bends. This doesn’t seem like a long life span, but I have to say I have worn them continuously on wet muddy ground (England huh!) and the leather took a beating. I use leather balm regularly but that’s no defence against mud/water combo. Most of the rest of the time I wear my primus lites. Thanks for the video 🙏
Yeah I tried to use your code when I ordered today and it didn’t work. I tried someone else’s code too, still no joy. I contacted customer services on the live chat and they gave me a code.
great, especially the primus lites. Lots of the best powerlifters in the world are using them. Geo Racer knits are similar and a bit better for day to day use too imo, and cheaper too
How have you got on with the sizing? I've seen variations for different models, and you have most! Do you take their online guide, or so you speak directly to them?
As I said, worked directly for them as an employee for 13 months, so had that insight haha - and generally I’ve been true to size in everything! I size down in my primus lite as I’m quite dynamic in them so want them a little more snug. But true to size across all the models I have!
@@ferguscrawley95 thanks. Yeah, that's why I asked, because we mostly don't have that benefit! Interesting though - I have a pair, which is one size larger than recommended by the site, and although they "fit", I could really go a size up which is true to size for me, too.
Hi Fergus, are all your shoes the same size? Or do you find that you need to go a size down if taking the Geo Racer say over the Primus Trail II FG? I have noticed the padding at the back of the shoes can change the size? Thanks
@6:36 We live in "The Western World". For reasons of global unity and forward mindedness, consider eliminating this term from our collective lexicon. There is a great deal of economic and psychic trauma attached to this "East vs West" way of thinking.
I have switched to barefoot shoes for everyday use..after 48 years of wearing normal shoes..it has been very painful experience. I am sticking to the change.
What's your 1-month update????
What is your 3 month update?
My foot has adapted well, it has been a journey..it is not for everyone.i would recommend a slow transition, ankle and foot exercises are essential.
7 month update?
9 month update?
Review starts at 23:33
Thx bro 😂
This was so helpful and informative. If you could put the suggested models in the description and use chapters with timestamps it would make this the absolute best Vivo video on UA-cam.
I've had my bracken Forest Trackers for about two months, felt like home from the first time I put them on. I wanted a foot-healthy boot for work on the property & woodlot, and hikes with rougher terrain, mud or snow. So far they're fitting that bill beautifully. So thank you, Fergus, for your development contributions!
The ONLY problem I've had with them was toward the end of a pretty mountain-y, strenuous hike when the lace hook on one boot snagged the laces of the other and I took a face-plant. No real harm done, just a scraped knee and tender spots on my cheek & brow. I am SO thankful it happened after we were down out of the steep rocky parts of the trail!
I’m making the transition into barefoot footwear, especially in working out. I now use them for working as a nurse as well. But I will also still wear cowboy boots partly for my style and partly for the protection and harder work. I still see the benefit of barefoot shoes overall but don’t feel like I gave up a part of my personality either.
I've never had an issue with these either. I've had my Primus Lite's for over a year now and I can honestly say that after a good clean they look almost brand new. Great to lift in too, only issue I do have is that the insole rides back
Good to hear man! I’ve only had that issue in 1 model personally!
@@ferguscrawley95 thanks for the reply. Keep doing what you’re doing, inspiring a lot of people 🤙🏼
I had this problem in like 3 different pairs from Vivo… Left shoe insole if precise. Sucks but i wear most of them without insoles anyway.
use tape?
Have your soles not worn out yet ?
Wow, I thought my six pairs was excessive! Been wearing vivos for almost three years now. Started at work, easy enough to find a pair that are fine with a suit. My feet felt better straight away. I used a standing desk so my feet tended swell before.
One advantage you didn't mention is warmth. Last winter in my unheated garage in barefeet gave me chillblains. I felt so old. Next winter will be in Vivos and some trainer socks.
Six pairs!? Rookie numbers... Haha thanks for watching Paul!
which one is fine with a suit? thx
I bought some Tracker Forests after seeing you'd used them for Nevis, just been to Loch Tay for a week and can say they performed admirably, can't imagine myself wearing traditional boots ever again!
Great to hear, and totally agree - standard boots feel AWFUL whenever I have put them on out of curiosity recently!
I have the Hykes Pinnacle and love them, best shoes I've ever owned and I will never go back to restricted regular shoes. After only a couple months my feet feel so much stronger.
Hey everyone! Hope you enjoy the video 👊🏼
Please let me know if you have any questions on anything I have covered here, and I’ll do my best to respond below 👇🏼
Are they true to size or run big/small? Thanks!
Absolutely fantastic video, mate! Love your honesty, transparency, and prudent reasoning! You finally convinced me to really get a pair!
Cheers
Great review / advice Fergus, 4 pairs myself, magna trails are go to. If they do the forest tracker in black / obsidian I’ll buy immediately! Never had one issue with quality or unusual wear. Much easier to get on then five finger shoes too. Thanks for taking the time on this, might add some more formal shoes in the future.
Great to hear man!
Wish VivoBarefoot restocked their shoes more often. I’m new to barefoot shoes and I’ll be buying my first pair next month through Vivo and I’m super excited since I rarely buy new shoes (the last pair I bought were Adidas Ultraboost in early 2018 and I still wear them they smell lol). I’d like to make a 6-8 week transition, like you mentioned in the video, to barefoot shoes as a health improvement along with a lifestyle boost as well since I have foot pain from working at my part time job.
I plan on incorporating these awesome shoes while going to the gym with my friend on the weekdays or just casually for outside day to day errands so I can get used to them.
I believe in the statistic of wearing VivoBarefoot shoes as it can “…strengthen feet muscles by 60% in 6 months…”as stated by their videos on UA-cam.
I’m currently a few days into being 20 years old and I want to extend by lifespan and health span as much as possible and I truly believe that I can improve my quality of life with these. Looking forward to when *THEY FINALLY GET IN STOCK*
Their supply chain has been massively affected by COVID, they are amidst a factory transition, and refuse to air freight their stock for the sake of the environment impact = stock issues. They have 4 stock ordering windows a year due to the nature of their consolidated supply chain for the sake of their sustainability, so the stock issues are contrary to the immediate access world we live in, but do have a purpose in a sense! My suggestion would be to keep an eye out on stock landing and snap it up as and when, as restocking is not a speedy process due to the above - hope that sheds some light on it a little!
@@ferguscrawley95 that helps a lot! I placed my order and they’re coming to my front door on September 7th I’m super excited
thanks appreciate the so far the "most in-depth" review of vivobarefoots :D. you're a legend
Thank you!
I had a nasty pain at my achilles tendon, plantar fasciitis and the foot was going inwards. I couldn't walk for 1,5 years, I was in pain even lying on bed. My ABC chiropractor insisted in switching to barefoot shoes but I didn't pay any attention (I found them ugly and expensive).
During the first 5 minutes I wore barefoot shoes, the pain was vanished! It's been 3 months since then, the transitioning was awesome, didn't have any pain but the exact opposite!
I do some strength exercises for the ankles and feet muscles too and I feel great!
Bought myself a pair of primus lites and love them - wear them for day to day, some gym sessions and walks - absolutely love them and must’ve done 200+ miles now, love using them as part of my rotation with mixture of drops in running/training shoes - only thing is would size down! I’m 10.5UK and got 11 but should’ve gone for size 10
Great video again, can’t wait to get myself some FG trail
Good man, all mine have taken a beating too!
I just ordered my first two pairs, the Tracker Forest for hiking in the Rockies of Alberta and the primus lite. I’m curious to see how the Tracker Forest hold up to our mountains and cold. I haven’t seen any Canadian reviews so just took a leap of faith and ordered them.
If i walk 20,000 steps a day around the concrete jungle of NYC - is it bad to wear barefoot shoes all day? or better to cycle with other kinds of shoes with more cushion?
Use them more and more each two weeks until you use them 24/7
Great video how I transitions was I actually learned how to run a little bit barefoot because I even felt that even the shoes I run in five fingers and even the shoes the thinnest ones you can get are still shoes I mean, there’s there’s still hindering some part of your form and make sure you’re really doing everything right I thought it was important to learn barefoot and go for a run. Pull off my shoes 100 yards next day. See how my feet felt if I had blisters. I would figure out why if my legs would pull my shoes off for a couple hundred yards got that over when I could actually run barefoot for about 6 miles minimal and I’ve been fine ever since I have run every brand I’ve tried and I including Sandals actually my preference.
But I would say anybody can learn this and not just the strength you’re all altogether feeling of running walking being connected to this world we live in is phenomenal. Nothing like it but you gotta put in the time. First
Got some magna fgs and they're coming apart between the upper and sole in a matter of days. I really think they should've stitched instead of glued as I have seen quite a lot of people with this issue
Does anyone know if there’s any steel toe work boots that have the barefoot profile but still safe? Please reply to this comment if you know of any
Yes, Birkenstock make a pair of steel toe caps
Starts talking about the shoes at minute 23:35
Read this commented at 21:30 after zoning out 😂
I was hoping for individual reviews of each of them + on-feet b-roll footage, honestly.
Good review and the code still works!
Good timing, Fergus - I'm due a birthday present for myself and some new shoes...! One question: would these grip nicely on flat pedals for (by your standards) casual cycling? I'm especially thinking about the Primus Lites. Thanks a lot!
Primus lites are great, but for a little more grip, I might suggest some of the FG trail shoes 🤙🏼
@@ferguscrawley95 Thanks - really helpful.
On another review they said the magna trail (not the leather FG version ) was great for cycling as well as everything else . Which caught my eye as I used to use berghaus goretex shoes and if I remember correctly they were not good for cycling .
Maybe the leather FG version will be similar . It’s also supposed to be more waterproof than the trail apparently
Die hard Vivo guy here in US. Always have people asking what they are. Sad they pulled out of stores here. Can remember driving 3 hours to only store in region and buying my years worth of shoes (3-5 pairs). Shipping takes 21-30 days now :-(
Better than not being able to access them at all I guess!
My Vivo's are the best shoes I've ever worn. Thanks for the vid!
Great to hear! Hope you enjoyed it 👊🏼
Hi Ferguson, thanks for great video. Can you provide some link to that research you were referring in the beginning? Thanks!
I have a sizing question or two. So I am a 47 in Scott, Borough and Primus Lite 3 which are all pretty rounded at toe box. I am a 48 in Tracker FG 2 which is much fore narrow. What size would you recommend for the following?
Primus trail knit FG
Primus Lite knit
Tracker Forest ESC
Magna Forest ESC
Thanks for the review! I feel like I’m probably a 47.5 which is obviously not an option. But I just want to see what you wear and if you have variations in your sizing.
Great video Fergus. Big shortage in shoes and sizes but I managed to bag a set of magnus boots. Thanks for the code and looking forward to trying them out. I'll go easy for the first while as suggested. The odd dog walk perhaps!
The nature of their supply chain, and refusal to air freight due to the environmental impact means its an ongoing challenge - but for a good reason! Great to heat, hope you get on well with them, let me know!
Best for lateral movement sports? (tennis, basketball, etc.)?
Great video. A question, how can traditional running shoes not be bad as you said when they are constricting and pushing the toes together, and also disabling the natural flexion of the foot of our arch? Appreciate the unbiased video and wide viewed approach. Thanks, Alex
Thanks Alex! They are ‘bad’ in terms of allowing the foot to function naturally for sure, but with perception of fatigue reduced from some foam technology, and carbon plate tech = speed, they have some inherent benefits.
It’s a case of mitigating the bad by wearing more of the good, OR, a happy middle ground is Altra (which I wear mostly).
Proper running form + time in barefoot shoes to help spread our toes and strengthen our feet should balance out the bad from wearing running shoes for the specific purpose of running (which is significantly less show % time overall).
Hope that makes sense!
@@ferguscrawley95 really insightful reply, thanks for that! Also those all black trail boots look insanely nice ha! Would definitely get a pair if they offered those on the website. Thanks again, new sub.
@@AliGspot great to hear! And those boots are landing this winter 👀
Hi Fergus, it doesn't deal with this video, but I would love hearing from you about supplementation for hybrid athletes (if you use any) especially for recovery and joints health, and training week designing. I already lift and do some casual run, but you convinced me to go "full-hybrid" and try to achieve some better number in running. Thanks for what you do and best wishes!
Video incoming soon enough!
What's the name of the grey shoes in the middle?
Impressive collection. I’ve got a couple of pairs! Just wish they were a tad more affordable!
What would you say about running on concrete? From an evolutionary standpoint, we are used to treading on medium hard ground like grass/ marsh, etc.
I love my vivos but the tread quality is terrible, can easily wear through the primus lite tread after just 2 months of light road running.
I am 64 years old and tried to transition years ago and I guess I over did it ... so I developed plantar fasciitis... then took months to heal, I have since tried so many shoes and of course ended up with thickly padded shoes ... but I am now learning about grounding and the history of shoes and how "they" changed the design of shoes so we are not close or grounding to Mother Earth. I have a gravel driveway and parking area .... will I be able to walk on small rocks? Or will it be painful? Please advise .... thx .. 😊
It will not be painful. The sole protects the bottom of your feet. It does take a bit to get used to.
Should you go down a size when buying a pair, since the too half of the shoe has so much room or is it best to go with your usual size?
Vivobarefoot are the best looking barefoot shoes. I’m wondering if they carry sandals ?
For summer I have not seen any .
Agreed! They have done in the past, not sure when a restock is due!
Hi Fergus, thanks for making this video. I’ve only just stumbled across yourself and barefoot training recently. As someone who has started training in a somewhat powerlifting style in the last year or so, I discovered that there might be benefits from this type of footwear through the squat university UA-cam channel.
I would like to try out these shoes particularly for squatting as my Adidas power lifts feel very narrow and I feel like I have good enough ankle mobility I don’t need the raised heel.
Can I request that you make up a wee list of the shoes and note which ones in particular are best for squats and deadlift? 🙏🏼 I know you mentioned it in the video but would be helpful to see them listed.
Many thanks!
Hey man, the beauty of the shoes is that because they are all zero drop and with a thin, non-intrusive sole, every model except the ESC range will be perfect for lifting in - so then it's up to you which ones you prefer the look of!
The Primus Lite is the most popular for day to day gym use, but is a little harsher to get used to than a FG sole - so it's really up to you!
Hi fergus . Only got 4 pairs myself . My favourites are my leather treks sadly no discontinued. Been wearing them for 3yrs now . Geo racer . Primus trail and tracker boots . I dread to think about going back to regular trainers
i’m transitioning to barefoot shoes and want to use them for running eventually. which model do you recommend?
Im buying VIVO after this deployment, wish I had a option to buy them during but I don’t have a steady mailing address until im home.
As a healthcare worker on my feet periodically for 12hrs/shift, would you recommend Vivos to people that are always on their feet? I’m currently rocking the max cushioned Hoka Bondi 6 but I’m looking into barefoot shoes as a possible alternative in the near future.
100%, but to ease into them over time as it will be quite demanding to begin with!
Hi I’m in healthcare too and wear them all day. I started my transition because of planta facia pain/ bunions. Although I’m still working on that, I felt so much better at the end of a shift even after a few weeks. I had mild pain on the top of my feet initially after I’d been sitting for while, which actually took a year to go. But that was something I was willing to put up with for the extra energy I gained from switching. For me it’s been life changing. There are some really great barefoot shoe companies out there.
Hi , any experience of sole wear ? I have a 6 month old pair of FG trail , unfortunately I have worn the forefoots surface down completely, I run 10 miles a week , are the rubber compounds an issue ?
So which are best for road running?
What shoes do you wear for road running (marathon or 1/2 marathon training)? Is it harmful to wear barefoot shoes for running or do you feel that the Primus Lite III could be worn for running? If not, what shoes do you recommend?
What is it with all the black and grey shoes? How about tan or brown like traditional leather shoes?
I prefer that colour personally 🤷♂️
@@ferguscrawley95 Also, black shoes get very uncomfortable and hot on 100* days.
Hi Fergus, helpful vid - pleased to say I’m becoming a big fan of your content. Any chance you’ve a scooby about whether minimal shoes might suit those with low arches? I’ve had IT band issues in running owing to imbalance so your points of alignment has me thinking
Thanks man, and yes, low arches are generally speaking weak arches, so a really cautious transition to more time in barefoot shoes should definitely pay off in the long run!
8 months ago I started learning Olympic lifting, the coach recommended riser shoes (big heel lift) it’s created problems with my patellar tendons so I reverted back to powerlifting and regular gym work.
Still having a lot of knee pain and was considering going to zero rise shoes (on the basis it’s the opposite of what I did when I caused the knee probs).
I’d welcome any thoughts on this and also which Vivo shoes are more suitable for this kind of gym training?
Look into Ben Patrick (Kneesovertoesguys) Training mathods. It fixed my patella tendon problems.
@@percrazie spoiler alert, Ben Patrick recommends squatting with riser shoes as well. the reality is it's super hard to maintain the ankle flexibility to squat properly in flat shoes, and for some people it may be biomechanically impossible. Nothing against Ben Patrick, I think his approach to training is fantastic. Just be prepared to elevate your heel *even more* and really hit that patellar tendon. The only solution is building strength through maximal range of motion.
@@jeremybuckets he doesn’t recommend squatting in riser shoes what are you talking about? He recommends doing some heel elevated squats so the knee can go further past the toes for strengthening them. A lot of athletes do heel elevated squats in their routine it doesnt mean they recommend it for all squats
should you wear vivo shoes for road running?
I've worn barefoot shoes for 2 years now, so I'm not afraid of a learning phase. I'm trying to decide between the Addis Mens and the Primus Lite for a daily shoe (I typically wear one pair of shoes exclusively until they wear out). Any advice?
I've been wearing Xero's Prio's almost everyday for the past 2 years for reference.
Hey man! I think best all rounder is the primus as you can use it to exercise in as well, whereas the Addis is more formal - but the sole is almost identical on them and they both last really well so it’s largely up to you!
@@ferguscrawley95 Thanks! Appreciate it.
I've been walking around in a couple of different barefoot shoes for about a year now and live them. Id like a similar feel running but nervous about using them for that. Do you have any reccomendations for other shoes? (I'm not knocking out long distance triathlons at the moment!)
Altras are your best bet if you love the feel of Vivos my man!
Do you recommend the geo racer knits for gym/ everyday wear. I tend to like them more than the Primus that you recommended for that type of use.
I do indeed! Been using them a lot myself recently - they're very light!
Would you recommend the geo racer knit for weightlifting? I was leaning towards those because i like the look. I wanna get the first ones you mentioned as well
Hi Fergus I want to get barefoot shoes for work (as a teacher) - I see the Freet Citee looks fairly formal. Do you have experience with these shoes or even the brand?
Do you have a recommendation for the FIRST pair of men's vivobarefoot for Non-runner's as an ENTRY in the barefoot arena?. I wear Brooks running shoes DAILY(walking at track). How do we START to 'train our feet/ankles/calves' and which pair is closer to 'standard' running shoes?
Best entry point is the primus trail FG in my opinion!
I’ve been in barefoot shoes for over 10 years. Like you only wear ‘normal’ shoes if in a kilt, DJ or mountaineering. Great video 👍
Re the Tracker Forest (as I want to buy a pair). Can you or did you fir walking crampons? Thanks
Thanks man! Tracker forest I used micro spikes in peak winter in Scotland and they were great - see no reason why regular crampons wouldn't work!
@@ferguscrawley95 thank you so much for your help. Have a pair of ötillö and looking to get Tracker all weather, Tracker 2FG AND scott 3 eco. 👍. All the best
@@ferguscrawley95 Are microspikes enough for climbing to the summit of Ben Nevis in winter?
Have you seen or tried the Vivo Borough (sneaker/boot)?
In the woods and fields we have briars and 2" or 5cm long thorns . I am looking for flexible shoes for exercise , this is handy !
Great to hear!
Hi Fergus, thinking of getting a pair of Vivos, but I've got very badly fallen arches, basically completely flat, would you still recommend these or should I put some inserts in them? Thank you in advance!!
Flat feet (generally speaking) are weak feet (no offence intended haha!) so very steadily increasing walking volume in vivos (without inserts) will improve your arches strength over time!
In the same way people can rectify kyphosis with strength training their upper back, you can improve weak feet through strengthening them!
@@ferguscrawley95 Awesome, will definitely be getting a pair of the Primus trail FGs then, thank you!!
What do you do to prevent blisters?
What a funny coincidence! I just started researching barefoot shoes. Great video by the way. What would you personally recommend for someone who only has the budget to buy one pair both for exercise and and daily use at university? Thanks a lot for the video!
I know you’re not asking me but I’d suggest Primus Lite, I have a video review on them (bit shameless but it’s weirdly specific to your question 😂)
@@TirnanHealy Thank you regardless. I'm happy to say you're spot on. I ordered the primus lite 3 in black yesterday, so while l beat you to the chase I still thank you for taking time to make a recommendation.
Nothing left for me to say here it seems haha! Thanks for watching!
@@GandaBaer I think the original unedited comment was worded in a way made it seem like he was asking for only one pair of shoes for both active wear and daily wear, I could be wrong, I might have mis-read it
Hi mate. Which shoe would you suggest for a mix of wearing to work (need to be black), running trails and running concrete? Cheers
Hi mate, the FG trail I reckon!
@@ferguscrawley95 do you mean the primus trail ii fg?
Trained by feet yesterday evening. Running in a pair of Geo Racer.
I’m used to running in a more minimal shoe, what are the best Vivos to run in on the road? Also they’re often out of stock online on all makes, will they have new ones soon?
Best starting point is Primus Trail FG variation I reckon my man. And the stock issue is due to the nature of their supply chain, transitioning across to a new factory, and refusal to air freight product for the sake of their environmental impact - best thing to do is jump on stock when it lands!
What shoes do you use or recommend for road/pavement running?
To start with: some of the Primus FG trail range! But make sure to ease into it very steadily to allow your feet, achilles, and calves to adjust!
Have you thought about using altra shoes 0 drop but more stack height for running
Yep! Mention them in the video - have 4 pairs! They’re great for various reasons, but couldn’t cope with calf volume off the bike for long distance triathlons hence why I opted for a little drop height sometimes.
@@ferguscrawley95 nice, I haven’t got any I’ve been tempted but not sure my calf’s would handle them haha I use Hoka usually!
@@GregHowe420 Altras are for sure a good starting point to try - no reason you can’t play around with Altras for shorter runs and then keep the Hokas on for longer stuff etc!
@@ferguscrawley95 you’ve twisted my arm haha the Mrs will be threaders, more shoes 😂 thanks for the reply!
Your discount code doesn’t seem to work in Canada.
I’ll do some digging - check back here later in the week and I’ll do my best to have it resolved for you 👊🏼
Which pair are best for extra wide feet?
Geo racer mens vs Primus Lites on everyday use/lifting? Also naturally im a size 8 but the size guide is guiding me towards a size 7, any thoughts on this? do you wear your natural size for these shoes? Cheers
Code not valid
We don't wear gloves often?
So i'm looking to try a pair of Vivobarefoot shoes but which would someone say is a good one to start with for a casual day to day wear? thanks for in advance.
Primus trail FG is your best bet I reckon! Or if you want an even more casual version then the Geo court or Geo Shell!
@@ferguscrawley95 brill thank you
How did you find the sizing in these shoes? Size 9 and sized up as the website says to do, but I worry they might be a tad big?
I’m true to size in all of them my man!
When you wear barefoot shoes, do you also wear socks to prevent blisters?
I wear socks yes, some don’t - up to you really!
Cheers Fergus. Great video 👍🏼 I’m one of the 1%-ers looking to make those small changes towards my holistic wellbeing improvements. Really got a lot of quality information to help make my decision in which barefoot shoe brand to go with 🦶🏼Nice one!
Hi , you are a great communicator
Thanks. I will give them a go.
Good man!
Tried to order the Tracker forest esc today and they are out of stock until next year! 🥲 is that that your fault Fergus? 😂 ended up going for the Tracker 2. My current Trackers which I’ve been wearing for the last year have split and leak where the foot bends. This doesn’t seem like a long life span, but I have to say I have worn them continuously on wet muddy ground (England huh!) and the leather took a beating. I use leather balm regularly but that’s no defence against mud/water combo. Most of the rest of the time I wear my primus lites. Thanks for the video 🙏
Tracker forest landing in black very soon! I've personally never had any issue with lifespan - but indeed, England eh.
the tracker fg requires you to double tie the boots everytime you put them on which can be annoying
The discount code doesn't work 😔
Where are you based? Will see if I can get it resolved!
Yeah I tried to use your code when I ordered today and it didn’t work. I tried someone else’s code too, still no joy. I contacted customer services on the live chat and they gave me a code.
ARGH!!!!! I thought this was a REVIEW of Vivo SHOES, and not your endless opinions.
good for deadlifting?
great, especially the primus lites. Lots of the best powerlifters in the world are using them. Geo Racer knits are similar and a bit better for day to day use too imo, and cheaper too
bro I have at least 20 pairs, still going!
Sizing? True to size or no?
For me they always have been yes!
This is why they're always sold out... Thanks for the video
When you say they all feel very similar I must disagree strongly :). To me there are different feelings when I am in different vivobarefoot models.
Time stamps?
I bought the vivo geo court and they last me 3 month.
How have you got on with the sizing? I've seen variations for different models, and you have most! Do you take their online guide, or so you speak directly to them?
As I said, worked directly for them as an employee for 13 months, so had that insight haha - and generally I’ve been true to size in everything!
I size down in my primus lite as I’m quite dynamic in them so want them a little more snug. But true to size across all the models I have!
@@ferguscrawley95 thanks. Yeah, that's why I asked, because we mostly don't have that benefit! Interesting though - I have a pair, which is one size larger than recommended by the site, and although they "fit", I could really go a size up which is true to size for me, too.
Hi Fergus, are all your shoes the same size? Or do you find that you need to go a size down if taking the Geo Racer say over the Primus Trail II FG? I have noticed the padding at the back of the shoes can change the size? Thanks
Hi David! I wear primus lite and geo racer a size down, other than that - all the same and my usual size!
@@ferguscrawley95 Thank you so much :-) Just ordered a pair of black Geo Shells :-) Keep well!
I'm usually a 10 1/2, and see only that 10 and 11 are offered.....should I aim up, or down?
I wear my Vivobarefoot daily, except for dress attire and barefoot around home. 👍
Barefoot shoes are where its at....
This could have been less than 10 minutes long. Man.
Not enough about individual shoes
Great but toe area always ends up tearing!
Hey fergus gotta ask, socks or no socks 😂
I wear socks - but you can do whatever you want 🤷♂️
@6:36 We live in "The Western World". For reasons of global unity and forward mindedness, consider eliminating this term from our collective lexicon. There is a great deal of economic and psychic trauma attached to this "East vs West" way of thinking.
Stop being weird.