The 2017 Vibram FiveFingers Range – Sneak Peak #2

An Introduction to 2017’s Vibram FiveFingers – Part 2

In the final entry of our Vibram FiveFinger 2017 range sneak peak, we will be revealing the Vibram FiveFingers V-Trial and V-Train

The V-Trail

V-TRAIL_17M6901_BlackGrey_HERO._2000pxThe V-Trail is the next generation Spyridon MR/Elite. The Spyridon MR was a great shoe, and was very popular amongst trailer runners, and more specifically, mud runners (hence the MR). The Spyridon MR was a shoe that was directed at a very niche market, so we get the impression that they are renaming the shoe at the same time as the update in the design to appeal to a wider audience.

What Vibram Say:

New for 2017! Grab a pair early for the holidays! The V-Trail is the perfect technical trail runner for the adventure racer you know. This is our evolution of the very successful Spyridon MR / Elite product line!

  • Evolution of Spyridon MR / Elite

  • Vibram 3D Cocoon technology molded into the sole provides rock-stopping protection, now extended further into the ball area

  • Multi-directional lug design for grip all over!

What Feetus Think:

If it based on the Spyridon MR, then it looks to be a great shoe. The updated designs/colours are always a nice feature, but we are glad to see they are still using the MEGAGRIP sole. There is a new sole design, however, using a new triangle design on the sole. The 3D Cacoon feature is still there, which is a definite plus when running off-road.

 

The V-Train

V-TRAIN_17W660-_BlackGreen _HERO 2000pxAs with the V-Trail, the V-Train is the next generation version of the KMD Sport LS. Aimed towards the indoor fitness market (although still great for outdoor), the V-Trail has been getting people really excited!

What Vibram Say:

New for 2017! Grab a pair early for the holidays! The V-Train is the perfect training and fitness shoe, for use in and out of the gym! Step into the next generation KMD Sport LS today!

  • Evolution of KMD Sport LS

  • Provides Flexibility of a barefoot shoe with a little more structure

  • Special Rope Traction Lugs in arch for rope climbing

  • Circular lug pattern for grip during lateral movements

 

What Feetus Think:

Looks like a fantastic shoe, multiple pivot points on the sole make it great for manoeuvring quickly. We think the addition of rope traction lugs on the arches is different, but it shows Vibram are really looking into the target market for these shoes. As with the KMD Sport LS, they use the XS-Trek sole which is excellent for indoor and outdoor activities. We have noticed they have replaced the speed laces that were seen on the KMDs with standard fasten laces and a Velcro strap. Not too sure how we feel about this as we love the speed and ease of the quick fasten laces. It does mean you can get them fastened nice and tight meaning no loosening of the shoes during all those lateral movements, plus the Velcro strip will keep them tucked away … we’ll see how they perform in practice.

 

All in all, we are very excited about the next generation releases of what was already a pair of great shoes. We will have these available for pre-order very soon! Make sure you are signed up for our newsletter, or follow us on social media to find out as soon as they are available.

We are expecting these to arrive towards the end of March 2017!

The 2017 Vibram FiveFingers Range – Sneak Peak #1

An Introduction to 2017’s Vibram FiveFingers

Over the next couple of days, we will be going through the 2016 Vibram range, giving you the low down on the new models, the new colours, as well as some of the core Vibram product range.

On Today’s post, we will be going through the Vibram core product range (sorry guys, check back over the weekend for a sneak peak at the V-Train and V-Trail 😉 ), and taking a look at some of the new colours available in these FiveFingers. So, without further ado…

 

feetus-kso-evo-lavender-purpleThe KSO EVO

Without a doubt one of the best selling Vibram FiveFingers shoe. It is an incredible shoe, versatile, good looking, comfortable and is just a perfect all rounder.

In the Spring/Summer 2017 Vibram range, we are very happy to announce 1 new colours to the KSO EVO range. However, sorry to say Guys, but it is on the Womens range only. We have the Lavender/Purple.

There has been no change to the spec of the KSO EVO, and why would there be? It is perfect as it is!

 

 

 

 

feetus-v-run-oysterThe V-Run

The Vibram shoe that evolved from the brilliant Bikila Evo. Redesigned with a perforates upper for better ventilation and still has the quick fasten pull tab for the laces. These are a fantastic road running shoe, and have proven extremely popular in 2016. Off the back of that, we will be adding an additional colour to our range, for the men this time, the Oyster.

Much in the same way as the KSO EVO, the spec of the Vibram FiveFingers V-Run has remained consistent, and we will still be including the current range of colours in the range.

 

 

 

feetus-trek-ascent-deep-pondThe Trek Ascent

What a fantastic shoe this is. The number 1 selling Vibram FiveFinger shoe in the UK last year. The Trek Ascent has been popular amongst runners as much as hikers, and is a tough shoe.

The 2017 range sees an additional colour added to the range, the Deep Pond. The Vibram FiveFingers Trek Ascent will still feature the MEGAGRIP sole, which will keep you grounded no-matter the terrain.

Kalclash reviews the KSO Evo for Feetus.co.uk

The KSO Evo – First Impressions from Steve Kalclash

Steve Kalclash from Kalclash Fitness reviews the KSO EVO

Steve is fanatical about Vibrams, and has been a Feetus Fan for a long time. His YouTube Channel is building up a very loyal following, covering various topics from triathlon, vegan living, and of his passion for Vibrams. We just love his no-nonsense, candid approach to reviews.

We couldn’t believe that after covering more than 2,000 miles in his collection of Bikilas, he hadn’t ever tried a pair of KSO EVO – so we intervened and this is what Steve thinks of his new KSO EVOs.

You can now watch his video review below.

 

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here

…and we think they’re fantastic too! So great, in fact, that we paid tribute to the KSO EVO in our recent blog post (after 950 miles of running in them!).

What do you think about the KSO Evo?

We’d love to hear what you think about the KSO Evo too! How close is it to barefoot running? Are these your favourite minimalist running shoes? What do you use them for mostly? Leave a comment and let us know…

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here

Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

2015’s Vibram FiveFingers. An Overview.

An Introduction to 2015’s Vibram FiveFingers

2015 is here and we’re delighted to present to you a wonderful range of Vibram FiveFingers. We truly believe that this year there is something for everybody. Old styles such as the Trek Sport and the Seeya LS have made way for new releases, and we’re thrilled with the offering.

We’ve given them all a quirky name so hopefully you’ll be able to use this to figure out which style is best for you and your preferred uses. Each style has a quick overview so you can easily understand what the shoe is designed for:

  • The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR
  • The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR
  • The One For Water – Signa
  • The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop
  • The Classic – VI-B and EL-X
  • The Bestseller – KSO Evo
  • The Revolutionary (aka The Expensive One) – KMD Evo
  • The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS
  • The Road Runner – Bikila Evo
  • The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP
  • The Casual One – CVT-Hemp

Have a read through the article and click the images to see the full product description of each.

The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR

NEW FOR 2015

  • Trail Running
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Mud / Obstacle Events

The Trek Ascent replaces the Trek Sport and the leather (LR) version has been released to satisfy the huge demand for an off-road leather shoe.

The shoe offers incredible rugged traction for all surfaces but is most capable on off-road adventures. The MEGAGRIP sole compound ensures you’ll have a firm and grounded experience when you’re on the trails.

The Trek Ascent LR does exactly the same job, except you can expect more durability with added water resistance from the leather and hemp upper fabric.Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

The Trek Ascent – Available for both men and women in a choice of different colours

The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR

  • Mud / Obstacle Events
  • Trail Running

If you’ve ever ran a muddy obstacle event you will have no doubt seen people lose their shoes in the mud or witnessed people losing their grip on the wet and muddy sections. That’s where the Spyridon MR comes in. MR stands for ‘Mud Runner’ and the shoe is equipped with a multidirectional lug pattern to ensure solid grip in all directions. Additionally, there is a molded 3D cocoon nylon mesh in the midsole to disperse impact.

Spyridon MR from Feetus.co.uk

 Men’s and Women’s Spyridon MR

The One For Water – Signa

  • Surfing and Watersports (Kayaking, Rowing, SUP)

FiveFingers’ signature water sport shoe, the Signa is ultra-thin, flexible and lightweight. The Signa offers incredible grip thanks to the WAVEGRIP sole compound and is very comfortable, both in and out of the water.

Vibram FiveFingers Signa - Watersports shoe from Feetus.co.uk

 The Signa – Available for men and women

The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop

NEW FOR 2015

  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure

Available for ladies’ only, the Alitza Loop replaces the incredibly popular original Alitza. Favoured by yoga, pilates and barre practitioners, but is also great for any indoor activities. Lightweight, breathable and perfect for fitness classes and studio sessions as well as travel and casual use.

Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Loop from Feetus.co.uk

The Alitza Loop. An elegant, ladies-only style

The Men’s Classic – EL-X

  • Indoor Training
  • Travel

Available for men only, although women with wider feet often prefer the EL-X. This simple ‘barefoot’ shoe has no fastening mechanism and is versatile, comfortable and easy on and easy off. Equipped with Vibram’s thinnest sole (just 3.5mm), the EL-X offers incredible ground feel. The minimalist nature of the shoe, its flexibility and its low weight make it a perfect travel companion.

Vibram FiveFingers EL-X from Feetus.co.uk

 The EL-X. Available in black and red/black. Designed for men but also suitable for women

The Women’s Classic – VI-B

  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Travel

Available for women only, the VI-B is for the elegant minimalist. Consider this an ‘evloved ballet flat’; featherlight, breathable and slim-fitting. Great for indoor training, casual use and for no-fuss travel. Also comes with a free polyester mesh bag that matches your shoes!

Vibram FiveFingers VI-B from Feetus.co.uk

 Available in a choice of colours, the beautiful VI-B

The Bestseller – KSO Evo

  • Indoor Training
  • Road Running
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

The KSO Evo replaced the original KSO back in 2013 and has become a firm favourite since. Ideal for pretty much anything, it is difficult to say what the KSO Evo is actually best for. Its great for hitting the gym, for tarmac running, and due to its sleek design (that isn’t quite as ‘outrageous’) as some other styles, the KSO Evo is popular as an everyday shoe.

Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo from Feetus.co.uk

Always a hit! The KSO Evo available in various colours for both men and women

The Revolutionary – KMD Evo

NEW FOR 2015

  • Parkour, Free Running & Similar
  • Indoor training
  • Casual & Leisure

Inspired by the rise in parkour and free running, the KMD Evo is a revolutionary new shoe from Vibram Fivefingers. The upper fabric is made from 100% low elastic polyester filament (similar to Nike’s FlyKnit material). The sole is fantastic for dynamic movement, for climbing, leaping and balancing. Its true that this shoe is expensive, but the KMD Evo certainly feels like a luxurious product.

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 

Leap, bound, climb, run. The KMD Evo for men and women

The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS

  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

Previously known as the Komodo Sport, the KMD Sport LS is hands-down the best indoor training shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The multi-drection lug pattern on the soles makes it great for agile, lateral movements and intense workouts. The flexibility of the shoe provides great feedback (barefoot feel) and the upper fabric is reinforced in places to support the likes of rope climbing and other CrossFit-type exercises.

KMD Sport LS from Feetus.co.uk

The KMD Sport LS: Available for men and women in various colours

The Road Runner – Bikila Evo

  • Road Running
  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

The Bikila Evo is an ideal shoe to transition in to barefoot running. At 6.5mm the sole is about halfway between the thinnest and thickest making it a perfect indtroductory shoe.

But that’s not all. The Bikila Evo is the premium road running shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The lightweight EVA midsole provides a thin blanket of cushioning that really helps during races and long runs.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 Rapid! The Bikila Evo, for road running

The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP

  • Road Running
  • Snow and Ice
  • Poor Weather Running

Introduced in late 2014, the Bikila Evo WP was a godsend to many. Finally, we have a ‘barefoot’ running shoe that is 100% waterproof. A total revalation, the Bikila Evo is startlingly good-looking, and the ICETREK sole compound acts as a sticky grip on ice and snow.Bikila Evo Waterproof from Feetus

 

The Casual One – CVT Hemp

  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

Minimalist shoe lovers will be impressed by the CVT Hemp. Lightweight, breathable and stylish; there’s no fastening mechanism – it’s a simple slip-on shoe where the heel can also fold down to act like a clog. Durable and comfortable.

Vibram FiveFingers CVT Hemp from Feetus.co.uk
CVT Hemp, available for both men and women

 

What do you think of 2015’s Vibrams?

With the increase in people participating in muddy obstacle events and the growing popularity of trail and ultra running, we believe the Trek Ascent is going to be the big favourite five-toe’d shoe of 2015. But there seems to be a massive movement in people getting fit, going to fitness classes and PT sessions so the KMD Sport LS and the KSO Evo are likely to be big hits too.

Which is your favourite style for 2015?

If you could, what else would you have liked to see?

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila Evo WP Review

Until now, the cold, wet, wintry weather has always been a real nightmare for barefoot and minimalist runners. What do we do; opt for a thicker-soled conventional shoe with Gore-Tex protection, or stick to our Vibrams and risk getting our feet wet and cold. I’ve always fallen in to the latter group. I was never a fan of Vibram’s Lontra, and for years have yearned for Vibram FiveFingers to create a waterproof barefoot shoe.

Introducing the FIRST and ONLY waterproof five-toed shoe!

Finally. Minimalist running shoes designed for winter, built to last, and waterproof!

Five Things You Should Know About the Bikila Evo WP

  1. WP stands for waterproof (and the shoe is exactly that – completely waterproof!)
  2. The Bikila Evo WP is the only waterproof shoe from Vibram FiveFingers
  3. Built on the ICETREK sole, the WP is designed for extra grip on ice
  4. Two fastening mechanisms: quick-lace AND zipper!
  5. Available for both men and women

First Impressions. Out of the Box

The Bikila Evo WP is unique in design. The Bikila Evo WP comes up to below the ankle similar to the long-redundant Bormio. The fabric is surprisingly lightweight, given that the shoe is waterproof. I was expecting something tougher. The workmanship on the shoe is top-class. It seems Vibram FiveFingers have really got it right in 2014 – The quality of the shoes this year have been of much better quality than previous years.

Fastening

The shoe has two fastening mechanisms. Inside is a concealed internal quick-lace system that is used to ensure a close fit. There is then the zip with taped seams either side which is used to keep the shoe completely waterproof.

The sole

Built on the same ‘style’ of sole as the original Bikila Evo, except the sole on the WP is made from Vibram’s patented ICETREK technology. Not only has this rubber compound been granted full marks by Vibram for its durability, it is “developed to grant the best grip on very cold, iced, or snowy surfaces, VIBRAM® Icetrek allows you to move, work, and live safely on mountains and in cold areas.”

ICETREK. In Vibram's own words
ICETREK. In Vibram’s own words

Sizing

A Little Too Snug?

I am commonly between sizes in Vibrams. I am right at the threshold with most Vibram models: Size 44 in KSO Evo, Trek Sport, CVT LS, Lontra – but am a size 45 in the Spyridon. I am a size 45 in the Bikila Evo WP too. I figured sizing-up would be a wise move anyway, given that the Bikila Evo WP is designed for more wintery conditions, and I will likely be wearing toe socks underneath.

So… If your toes touch the end in your normal Vibrams, I would recommend going an extra size up.

How Waterproof Are They?

I can happily confirm that the Bikila Evo WP is completely waterproof. I’ve ran through puddles, through wet grass, sloppy mud, and did the ‘dip test’ in the lake. No water gets through the waterproof membrane. The only way your feet are going to get wet in this shoe is through the hole that your foot gets in. They are as waterproof as possible for a shoe!

How ‘Grippy’ is the ICETREK Sole?

It’s a little early to tell as we haven’t had any snow and ice to test the sole on yet. I’ve tested them on wet tarmac, on slippery paving stones, and on slimy autumn leaves – and truth be told – they seem to offer no more traction than a standard pair of Vibrams. I honestly find that my KSO Evo handle corners (on wet terrain) more capable than the ICETREK. But before I jump the gun – we need snow and ice to test these on. Watch this space.

How Warm Is The Bikila Evo WP?

I’m been incredibly impressed with the warmth from the Bikila Evo WP. Despite the material being incredible lightweight and relatively thin, they do provide a great deal of insulation.

Additionally, I’ve took these for the occasional spin in warmer weather (15C+) and my feet haven’t overheated.

How Breathable Are They?

The longest run I have done in the Bikila Evo WP so far is 7 miles. Despite the outer fabric getting wet, my feet inside stayed completely dry. No traces of sweat, despite wearing thick toe socks underneath.

Conclusion

Despite my initial apprehension on the level of waterproofing, I am completely bowled over by this winter-proof barefoot running shoe.

The downsides to the Bikila Evo WP are: 

  • Fits a little more snug than normal (very slightly)
  • The concealed quick lace has excess lace (easily resolved by cutting or tucking inside the shoe once zipped
  • The toe pockets seem a little narrower than normal

The positives far outweigh the negatives

  • The shoe is completely waterproof!
  • The shoe is gorgeous – Black and Grey (with a dash of either red for men, or purple for women)is a great choice of colour
  • You can achieve a very precise, comfortable fit using the the internal lacing system and the external zip
  • Optimum grip on ice and snow
  • Good degree of warmth
  • Of all the Vibrams, this is the best running shoe for winter

Overall, I am exceptionally pleased with the quality of this shoe and am excited for the onset of ice and snow!

Buy The Bikila Evo WP at Feetus.co.uk Today

CQOTW5: The KMD Sport for Tough Mudder, or Something Else?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post every-so-often to our favourite customer questions, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our latest CQOTW:

I recently can a Tough Mudder in my KMD Sport. They had enough grip, but let in a lot of debris. Which Vibram FiveFingers would you recommend for tackling mud obstacle races?

Its been very busy for us this week, we’ve recently taken delivery of new stock, including New Balance and Ultimate Direction, as quite coincidentally, we are ‘re-strategising’ to target trail runners and obstacle runners!
New-Balance-MT00BO2-Minimus-Blue-Orange-Trail-Running-Shoes-Feetus01
New Balance Minimus: Zero Drop. Perfect for trail running
The KMD Sport is best in the gym, indoor training, and tarmac running. I am really surprised you found them to have adequate grip on your Tough Mudder.
The KMD Sport LS. Typically designed for the gym
The KMD Sport LS. Typically designed for the gym
For mud/obstacle use, the stand-out style is the Spyridon MR. The MR stands for Mud Runner and was designed for muddy events. I can’t comment from personal experience, as the Spyridon has always been one of those shoes that has never quite agreed with me, but our customers love that shoe.
The Spyridon MR. Vibram's offering for muddy events
The Spyridon MR. Vibram’s offering for muddy events
The other option (and a personal favourite of mine) is the Trek Sport. The tread is actually deeper than the Spyridon MR, so it provides better traction on the trails. It is built on the KSO platform (which stands for Keep Stuff Out) so if you’re looking to keep the dirt out, this could be the one for you.
The Trek Sport: Black / Charcoal, for both men and women
The Trek Sport. Deep lugs provide grip and stability on the trail.
Further, keeping grit and debris out is never easy, especially when you’re swamping around in mud. However, from personal experience, a pair of toe socks combined with fastening your shoes up extra tight has always been the best solution for me.
Injinji Original Weight, No Show toe socks.
Injinji Original Weight, No Show toe socks.
Both the Spyridon MR and the Trek Sport are currently on offer. The Trek Sport is currently £40 off, but this price will be increased over the weekend. We also have an offer on a pair of Injinji toe socks (offer only applies to that particular pair), where you can pick up a pair for better than half price when you place an order with us.
Ultimate Direction's 'Jurek Endure'. Another piece of kit that will simplify your life on the trails
Ultimate Direction’s ‘Jurek Endure’. Another piece of kit that will simplify your life on the trails

The Vibram FiveFingers Glossary

If you want to read more about each style of Vibram FiveFingers. CLICK HERE to see our Vibram FiveFingers Glossary. 

Xero Shoes Sensori Venture NOW IN STOCK at Feetus.co.uk!!!

Barefoot runners listen up.

The ready-to-wear barefoot sandal you can use for walking, hiking, yoga, working out, paddling, biking, even running 100-mile ultra-marathons is now available from Feetus.co.uk.

You no longer have to wait a fortnight for delivery from the US.

You no longer have to pay customs charges.

We have LOADS of Xero Shoes Sensori Venture in our UK depot. Simply order today, and you can have them tomorrow!! 

Introducing the Xero Shoes Sensori Venture

Key features:

  • Four fun colours — Charcoal (with a reflective black toe lace), Royal Blue (with a reflective blue toe lace), Lime Green, and Pink.
  • Exclusive FeelTrue® rubber outsoles, the only sole material made specifically for barefoot sandals. 5.5mm thick for great ground feel with the protection you want.
  • Elegant contour to hold your foot, but without unnecessary support.
  • Pre-laced — just slide in your foot and go
  • Patent-pending tension adjustment system — find the perfect fit in seconds, and then you can slide your Xeros on and off in a flash.
  • Super soft toe post — since the huaraches-inspired lacing goes around your entire foot, you don’t feel the toe post the way you do in a flip flop or other thong sandal
  • Super STRONG toe post — won’t pull through the sole like flip flops do
  • Heel cup — keeps your heel in place, helps keep out debris, and adds a splash of color
  • Silicone Achilles strap — makes the lacing feel “not there”
  • Elevated ankle holes — the lace never touches the ground, and so it won’t abrade

 

Vibram FiveFingers 2014 Sneak Peak #3: The Spyridon MR

Introducing the New-for-2014 Spyridon MR

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Back in September, Feetus.co.uk gave you an exclusive look at two other ‘Sneak Peaks’ of what you should expect to see from Vibram FiveFingers in 2014:

The shock retirement of the favourite KSO, which is being replaced by the KSO EVO, and, the introduction of the Bikila EVO; a cushioned update of the Bikila LS.

Now we bring you a look at the new Spyridon MR.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

A History of the Spyridon

The Spyridon was first released by Vibram FiveFingers back in early 2012, first as a lace-only (LS) style, before releasing the Spyridon (Velcro option) later in 2012. Designed with trail runners in mind, the Spyridon found itself as the go-to ‘barefoot’ shoe for participants in mud races and obstacle events such as Tough Mudder.

Click here to buy Men’s and Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon from Feetus.co.uk

The Spyridon MR

It is therefore no surprise to learn that the ‘MR’ stands for ‘Mud Runner’.

Here’s the official blurb from Vibram FiveFingers:

Designed for the minimalist trail runner, the re-styled Spyridon MR, short for Mud Runner, offers a Vibram 3D Cocoon technology molded into the sole for lightweight protection. Speed laces and canvas fabric finish this sole off for a rugged and secure fit, while a 360 degree lug pattern offers grip in all directions, perfect for your next mud obstacle course or trail race.

First Look: The Spyridon MR (Grey / Orange)
First Look: The Spyridon MR (Grey / Orange)

So, What’s New?

Good question. And the answer is ‘not much’.

The Spyridon MR is being released (initially, at least) as a lace-only style and will feature Vibrams fantastic Speed lace system. The Velcro Spyridon is being completely retired.

The Sole/Tread

There are no changes to the sole. The Spyridon MR has the same brilliant Vibram XS Trek Compound sole as the original Spyridon, with the ‘rock block’ nylon mesh. This is just a maximum sole thickness of just 4mm. Very minimalist. The rubber sole has a multi-directional quadrilateral pattern, thus providing a good degree of grip and range of motion.

The Upper

The upper fabric is arguably the only difference. Whereas the Spyridon LS was made from  Coconut Active Carbon, the new Spyridon MR is constructed from a polyester fabric. The new look is arguably more ‘socially acceptable’. By this, I mean the design has been toned-down and is less garish.

Closure / Fastening

As stated above, the Spyridon MR is (for the time being at least) going to be available as a lace-only style. The speed lacing system is a fantastic and very convenient way of lacing up in a flash. The short laces are made from memory wire, which helps them to remain in place as you fastened them. They then hold in place by securing the lace with a plastic toggle, and secured further with a small Velcro patch. Very neat indeed.

In the US, Vibram-wearers prefer to wear laces over Velcro by a ratio of 3:1. In the UK, we are the opposite, preferring Velcro over LS by the same ratio.

Foodbed

The MR has a polyurethane stitch-in footbed. Like the original Spyridon, this is not removable.

The Essentials:

Weight: M43 = 7.83 oz (222g) / W38 = 5.64 oz (188g)

Max Sole Thickness: 4mm

Colour Preview (From L to R): Women's Blue/Black, Men's Grey/Orange, Men/Women's: Black/Grey
Colour Preview (From L to R): Women’s Blue/Black, Men’s Grey/Orange, Men/Women’s: Black/Grey

Compound: XS Trek + 3D Cocoon Technology

Insole: 3mm Polyurethane + Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner

Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Colours Available:

Men’s:

Military Green / Black (14M4201) – Not available in UK

Black / Grey (14M4202)

Grey / Orange (14M4203)

Women’s:

Black / Grey (14W4202)

Blue / Black (14W4204)

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Final Words

While the release of the Spyridon MR is not as exciting as the release of the KSO Evo, the Bikila EVO and the all-new Vyrid, it is still an important development. It shows Vibram FiveFingers have recognised the massive growth in popularity of obstacle mud races over the last couple of years, and are looking to capitalise on this by providing a shoe that not only copes well in the wet and muddy conditions, but also stays on your foot! (If you’ve never been to a mud obstacle event, you always see people leaving with just one shoe, as the other got lost in the mud!)

It is a shame to see the Velcro option removed, but the worst decision for me is that the UK won’t be getting the military green ‘khaki’ colour. Nevertheless, I am confident the Spyridon ‘Mud Runner’ will prove to be a big hit in 2014.

Bring on the mud.

Click here to buy Men’s and Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon from Feetus.co.uk

 

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

 

Click here to see the other 2014 releases from Vibram FiveFingers 

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Barefoot runner, cycling fanatic, outdoor-lover, Lee Firman is the man behind Feetus.co.uk. Click here to read more.

 

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Xero Shoes Release The +One Line

Xero Shoes Continues to Evolve. What Next?

Yesterday we shared with you Xero Shoes’ new kid on the block; the Sensori Venture. A barefoot huarache-style sandal with a 5.5mm sole, a revolutionary (patent-pending) lacing style, and an attractive design that will certainly prove popular in the coming year.

But Xero Shoes have another card up their sleeve. And this card is a little different.

Introducing the Xero Shoes +One Line

Xero Shoes are about to launch some tabi-style booties for use with their huarache-style sandals, and can also be used on their own for indoor activities such as yoga and pilates. They look as though they could also be used as a winter ‘sock’ inside regular shoes too.

The +One Trail

The +One Trail is designed for warmer weather. Both lightweight and protective, the +One Trail is designed to prevent cuts and scratches when you’re out running on the trails. If you’ve ever hit the trails in your Xero Shoes, you’ll know that this can sometimes be an issue (especially getting bits of gravel sneaking between your foot and the sandal).

The Xero Shoes +One Trail
The Xero Shoes +One Trail

The +One-ty

Xero Shoes won’t be winning any awards for their choice of product name for this one – but the +One-ty could be a big hit for those of you looking to continue wearing your Xero Shoes in to the winter months. The construction consists of a 2mm water resistant polyester mesh with bamboo fleece liner. The bottom features multi-directional chevron grips made from silicon for extra traction.

The Xero Shoes +One-ty
The Xero Shoes +One-ty

First Thoughts

I’m not going to pretend they look pretty, because they don’t. They may look better in the flesh – BUT – the big question is ‘How will they perform?’. Xero Shoes have been very clever and recognised two gaps in the market. The first being that some people do not like the idea of a DIY sandal, so they released the cool-looking Sensori Venture. The second is that running sandals are not the best option for running in colder climes – and that’s where the +One range fit in.

I think it is great to see some innovation from Xero Shoes and these will definitely appeal to those looking to keep running all year round in their Xero Shoes.

Breathability is another factor. How breathable will the +One’s be? Having not tested them yet, I cannot say – but I am concerned that they may be a little sweaty (like Sockwas). The last thing we want is a sweaty, sliding ride.

Losing the ‘Barefoot Feel’

The addition of a +One with your Xero Shoes is going to really remove much of the ‘ground feel’ from your running. Will this put barefoot-purists off?

…Only time will tell. But we look forward to seeing how you like them once we get them at Feetus.co.uk.

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About The Author

Barefoot runner, cycling fanatic, outdoor-lover, Lee Firman is the man behind Feetus.co.uk. Click here to read more.