It’s Spring, and along with most of the Country, and World for that matter, we have had more time on our hands than usual. So, we decided to have a complete clear out of our Vibram FiveFinger and Furoshiki stock and have a Vibram clearance event.
Right now, every single pair of Vibrams has been reduced between 30 and 50%, starting from as low as £39.99. Plus, we are giving an EXTRA 5% OFF and a FREE Fappa with every order!
We have also just taken delivery of the Summer 2020 Injinji range, more about that in another blog post tomorrow, but all are online now, check them out here.
A road test felt overdue for the new Vibram FiveFinger 2017 range, so I thought I would take the weekend as an opportunity to take the V-Trails for a spin. I decided to take them up Roseberry Topping, given that it has a good mix of terrain; grass, mud, rock and gravel.
I went for the Orange V-Trails, which I must admit I didn’t think I would be too keen on, and do generally go for the black and black grey options in my Vibrams, however, in person, they do look pretty good. They have a new sole pattern compared to their predecessor (the Spyridon MRs) but still feature the MegaGrip compound, so I can only imagine improved grip compared to these. They use the quick lace system, and have a handy strap on the heel to help get them on.
I wore these with a pair of Injinji Trail socks, but I do think they would be great without socks too, as they are a little more padded than other FiveFingers.
So on with the testing. Even though these have a thicker sole than most Vibrams, the ground feel is fantastic. I usually wear my KSO EVOs, which have a really thin sole, so I am used to a lot of ground feel, and didn’t feel let down by these. The sole also features the Cacoon 3d membrane, which helps protect against uneven terrain, rock, stones etc. The path on the lead up to the base of Roseberry Topping is a gravelled path, so great to put this to the test. I could feel that I was standing on something, especially when there was the odd large or sharp one. However, there was nothing which caused pain. The membrane does a good job at spreading the impact, so doesn’t affect the way in which you walk.
Next up, I had the steps, mixed with mud and grass inclines. Obviously I went for the mud and grass to check out the V-Trail’s grip. It was wet on the ground, and I really did feel solid the whole way, no slippage. The MegaGrip sole still performs extremely well.
There wasn’t too much wet ground to test them on, so I moved on to the more rocky terrain on the run up to the top. I felt great the whole way. I have suffered in the past with a bad ankle, so I am always hesitant to go too crazy, but I felt solid the whole way up and down. The multi-directional lugs on the sole really came into their own, I could go from rocks, to grass to mud, and felt very comfortable doing so in the V-Trails.
Even though I was wearing Injinji socks, my feet were kept cool and dry the whole time. The V-Trail has an Anti-Microbial fabric liner, which helps with this, and they are as fast at drying as most other Vibrams. I did go through the odd puddle, but to be honest, you couldn’t really tell.
Definitely the biggest pro of the V-Trail is the traction. The Vibram MegaGrip sole is unbeatable in terms of grip, it feels like you are literally stuck to the rocks, or whatever you are walking on. Definitely gives more confidence when you are out and about.
All in all, I had a great run out in the V-Trail, and I imagine with us saying goodbye to the Summer for another year, I will be putting in a few more miles with these over the Autumn and Winter months. Plus, I got to take in some nice scenery along the way.
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
The 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
As 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!
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…
The 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!
The 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.
The 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.
Following on from our blog on last years best Winter Vibrams, we thought it would make sense to do a refresh of that for this year, with an updated product range. We have found more and more people visiting that blog recently, as it gets colder and colder.
An Overview of the best winter Vibram FiveFingers
In case you don’t want to read the whole article, we’ve made it easy for you to pick out the best shoe depending on what activity you’re likely to use the shoes for most:
Lightweight and low profile whilst offering adequate grip, the Spyridon MR is a favourite for those seeking speed and stability both on and off road. The ‘MR’ stands for Mud Runner, and these were designed with events like Tough Mudder in mind.
Best for: Mud obstacle events, winter racing (short-medium distance)
THE BEST WINTER SHOE from Vibram FiveFingers in 2016: The Trek Ascent Insulated comes higher up the ankle so it keeps more than just your feet warm; your ankles are kept toasty too! Not only that, but the wool lining is outstandingly warm – a total godsend for winter!!
Please note: The insulated padding inside this shoe means it fits smaller / tigher than all other Vibram FiveFingers styles. We strongly recommend you opt for +1 size up than you normally would.
The MEGAGRIP sole on this insulated shoe also features Vibram’s patented ICETREK technology, offering incredible grip on ice, snow, and cold surfaces. The sole is thicker, offering protection from the cold ground, and also features aggressive grip for fantastic stability on and off-road.
Best for: All winter use (running, trekking, casual, all terrain)
Add extra warmth to your precious feet by wearing toe socks under your Vibrams. Some of the thicker socks (such as Injinji’s NuWool OUTDOOR range) can add too much bulk. In most cases a ‘normal’ thickness sock is more than adequate. See our guide to the best toe socks for winter (which also includes tips on keeping your feet warm).
Steve Kalclash, a die-hard vegan and barefoot running fanatic, normally does the bulk of his running on the road, but we wanted to get his verdict on the new Trek Ascent. So he’s recently been putting in the miles off-road, trail running, and he made this short video to let us all know his first impressions of the Trek Ascent.
Who is Steve Kalclash?
For those of you that don’t know Steve, he is an inspirational character. His YouTube channel is growing bigger all the time and his videos range massively; from his vegan diet to product reviews, and training tips involving running, cycling, and weight lifting. His favourite Vibram FiveFingers model (given he is a road runner) is the Bikila EVO, but he’s a massive fan of the KSO EVO too. He also reviewed the KSO EVO earlier this year for us. See the video here.
The Trek Ascent – An Overview
In the Trek Ascent ‘Family’ there are three styles all featuring the same patented MEGAGRIP sole. They are all great for trail running, hiking, trekking, and casual use. The sole offers great grip on all surfaces, but is not too aggressive, making it still a good choice for road running too.
The TREK ASCENT is the original, featuring a synthetic upper fabric. The lightest in the range, the Ascent is fast and grippy, ideal for off-road racing and mud obstacle events (i.e. Tough Mudder). The synthetic, lightweight upper fabric means the shoe dries quicker should you get it wet.
The TREK ASCENT LR is exactly the same as the TREK ASCENT, expect the upper fabric is a combination of Hemp and Kangaroo Leather. This combination of materials makes the shoe naturally water-resistant and more durable.
The TREK ASCENT INSULATED is the newest style in the range, and is reinforced with wool inside the shoe making it really warm. Ideal for winter and cold weather.
Research published in podiatry journal The Foot in 2007 suggests that structural and functional changes can result from the foot having to conform to the shape and constriction of a shoe, rather than being allowed to develop naturally. And the younger the foot, the greater the potential for damage.
Crucial: Well-Chosen Footwear for Children
The human foot at birth is not a miniature version of an adult foot. In fact, it contains no bones at all and consists of a mass of cartilage, which, over a period of years, ossifies to become the 28 bones that exist in the adult human foot. This process is not complete until the late teens, so it is crucial that footwear – when worn – is well chosen.
Research has shown that when children spend more time in bare feet, even in just two months, i results in increased foot strength, balance, mobility and ankle function. You child’s shoe should reflect this ‘barefoot feel’, with the shoe offering as much of the following:
A completely flexible sole,
A wide and deep toebox,
An anatomically correct last (the ‘mould’ that a shoe is built on),
A closure at the back and an adjustable closure at the top, such as laces or Velcro
By wearing Vibram FiveFingers, children get the health benefits of going barefoot whilst offering protection. Here are the Vibram FiveFingers styles available for children, most available between sizes 29 and 25:
KSO for Kids
We love the KSO for Kids. The ‘closed’ upper fabric keeps out any debris when the kids are out playing and the Velcro fastening makes it easy for kids to secure the shoe (without any farcical laces!). The KSO is the biggest-ever seller of Vibram FiveFingers and the most popular shoe for men, women, and children.
KSO: Pink/Purple
KSO: Blue/Black/Grey
KSO: White/Pink
Speed for Kids
Breathable and more conventional-looking than some of the other Vibram FiveFingers styles, we love the Speed for Kids. This shoe promotes natural (barefoot) movement of your child’s feet and the sole provides good grip for all activities. Available in a lace-up.
SPEED: Black/White
SPEED: Rouge/White
SPEED: Grey/White
Sprint for Kids
The Sprint allows your child’s feet to move as nature intended, the thing we like best about this shoe is the open top. Having an open top makes it so much easier for kids to get their dainty little feet in to the shoe and position their toes in to each pocket. They don’t even have to worry about tying the laces either, as the Sprint is a simple Velcro strap fastening.
SPRINT: Red/Black
SPRINT: Pink/Grey/Green
All the children’s Vibram FiveFingers are available NOW at Feetus.co.uk. Some are available as ‘on order only’ but this only adds typically 2 days to your order time. We also sell matching toe socks from Injinji.
Admittedly, minimalist shoes aren’t always the best choice for colder months. Such footwear is low-profile: the soles are thin which means your feet are closer to the ground and receive less ‘protection’ from the cold underfoot.
Barefoot purists may tell you to grin and bare it, but winter is long, and we believe that with the correct footwear, you can enjoy the best of minimalist running whilst keeping your fitness up during the whole of winter.
An Overview of the best winter Vibram FiveFingers
In case you don’t want to read the whole article, we’ve made it easy for you to pick out the best shoe depending on what activity you’re likely to use the shoes for most:
Best for mud obstacle events & racing: Spyridon MR
Mild winter shoe / Good all-rounder: Trek Ascent
Best casual/smart winter shoe: CVT Wool
Spyridon MR
Lightweight and low profile whilst offering adequate grip, the Spyridon MR is a favourite for those seeking speed and stability both on and off road. The ‘MR’ stands for Mud Runner, and these were designed with events like Tough Mudder in mind.
Best for: Mud obstacle events, winter racing (short-medium distance)
The leather upper is naturally water-resistant, strong, and durable. Sure, leather also weighs a little more than synthetic materials but the compromise is well worth it due to the added warmth and toughness this shoe offers. The LR‘s MEGAGRIP sole is thicker than most other Vibram styles and therefore offers more resistance to cold coming up from the ground through the soles. Just the few extra milimetres really does make a massive difference. The MEGAGRIP sole is also Vibram FiveFingers’ hands-down best sole for off-road running, trekking and walking.
Best for: Water resistance, long distance outdoor use, all winter
THE BEST WINTER SHOE from Vibram FiveFingers in 2015: The Trek Ascent Insulated comes higher up the ankle so it keeps more than just your feet warm; your ankles are kept toasty too! Not only that, but the wool lining is outstandingly warm – a total godsend for winter!!
Please note: The insulated padding inside this shoe means it fits smaller / tigher than all other Vibram FiveFingers styles. We strongly recommend you opt for +1 size up than you normally would.
The MEGAGRIP sole on this insulated shoe also features Vibram’s patented ICETREK technology, offering incredible grip on ice, snow, and cold surfaces. The sole is thicker, offering protection from the cold ground, and also features aggressive grip for fantastic stability on and off-road.
Best for: All winter use (running, trekking, casual, all terrain)
You guessed it, this shoe is largely made from wool making it warm and comfortable. The CVT Wool features a higher ankle for added warmth and the overall look of the shoe is stylish and ideal for smart and casual use. This shoe is surprisingly light yet cozy and warm.
For added grip on ice, snow, and cold ground, the CVT Wool features ICETREK pods in the sole.
Add extra warmth to your precious feet by wearing toe socks under your Vibrams. Some of the thicker socks (such as Injinji’s NuWool OUTDOOR range) can add too much bulk. In most cases a ‘normal’ thickness sock is more than adequate. See our guide to the best toe socks for winter (which also includes tips on keeping your feet warm).
We’ve just received our Autumn/Winter delivery of Vibram FiveFingers and are celebrating the release of the brand-new Trek Ascent Insulated. But there is one problem… We’ve got so many Vibrams that we can’t fit them on our shelves!
So we’re having an impromptu sale with some MASSIVE savings to be had.
CLICK EACH PRODUCT NAME TO TAKE YOU TO THE PRODUCT.
For many, 2016 may not look like the most exciting year in the brand’s history. Celebrating their 10th Anniversary, Vibram have re-released the original Classic and the KSO (see our Sneak Peak #1 here) for a limited period, but haven’t gone guns-blazing on as many other ‘new’ releases as they have done in the past.
This, it can be argued, is largely down to the fact that they have ‘nailed’ it with many of their products. Looking at the current catalogue, the KSO Evo is impeccable, the EL-X serves as a fantastic entry-level shoe, the Trek Ascent is a worthy successor to the Trek Sport, and the ladies are spoilt with the Alitza Loop and the Vi-B.
Nevertheless, there are still some exciting new additions, as we document below. The biggest perk is that the pricing has changed… FOR THE BETTER!
At Feetus, we also think there are still some unexploited areas where Vibram could make a difference, and we’ll discuss that at the end of this article.
Without further ado, we present to you the new Vibram FiveFingers for 2016:
Bikila Evo 2: New for 2016
The original Bikila, named after the famous barefoot Olympic runner Adebe Bikila, was released in 2010. Designed mainly for road use, the Bikila was a huge success and was soon followed by the Bikila LS (the same shoe, but with a lace system). In 2014, the shoe ‘evolved’ in to the Bikila Evo to massive acclaim, and 2016 sees the release of the Bikila Evo 2.
Bikila Evo 2: Vibram Blurb
Redesigned with a softer upper and perforated to maximise breathability, the Bikila EVO 2 is now even more comfortable. This is an ideal running shoe for those making the transition from traditional to minimalist shoe. The thinner sole lets you feel your run, connecting you to the true barefoot running experience.
Bikila Evo 2: Specification
WEIGHT: M43= 4.80oz / W38= 3.74oz
SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner //
If the success of its predecessors is anything to go by, the Bikila Evo 2 is destined to be a massive hit. With a gorgeous lineup of colours to choose from, the Bikila Evo 2 is going to be hard to resist.
Spyridon MR Elite: New for 2016
The growth in muddy obstacle events worldwide has opened up a niche in the shoe market. Many participants already use Vibram FiveFingers for their stability, glove-like fit, and ability to keep the shoes on their feet (while other competitors lose their shoes in the mud!).
In 2016, Vibram FiveFingers introduce the Spyridon MR Elite. Built on the same MEGAGRIP sole as the Spyridon MR, the Elite features unique touches making it the perfect choice for mud running:
Velcro cuff to keep mud out and add ankle protection
Instep brace to secure the foot (and prevent losing your shoe in the mud!)
Water resistant fabric helps repel water whilst keeping the shoe breathable
Spyridon MR Elite: Vibram Blurb
A purpose-built shoe designed specifically for diehard mud-runners, the Spyridon MR Elite is why Vibram was named the Official Footwear Sponsor of the 2015 Warrior Dash. The in-step brace provides a confident “lock” for stability even when the shoe is wet, while the high hook-and-loop cuff keeps mud out and protects the ankle. A totally washable shoe, the water-resistant finish makes the Spyridon MR Elite a relentless competitor in all conditions.
Spyridon MR Elite: Specification
WEIGHT: M43= 7.54oz W38= 5.49oz
SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial Drilex
Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 5mm +
3D Cocoon Mesh
UPPER MATERIAL: Injection PU Brace + Polyester with
Water Repellent Treatment
VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry
Spyridon MR Elite: Feetus’ Verdict
Creating a shoe solely for the purpose of muddy obstacle events is a brave move from Vibram FiveFingers. Is there a ‘die-hard mud-running minimalist’ market that are willing to shed money on another pair of Vibrams just for their muddy races? Probably not, but on inspection, we felt that the Spyridon MR Elite is more than just a mud runner shoe. It is ideal for the British weather, especially during the wetter months. This shoe will keep you running when the weather turns bad!
Trek Ascent Insulated: New for late-2015
Trek Ascent Insulated
Due for release in Autumn/Winter 2015, we can’t wait for the Trek Ascent Insulated. On test, these are perhaps the most comfortable offering from Vibram FiveFingers to date! Designed to be used when the temperature is cooler, here we have a shoe that features full wool lining, Cordura water resistant outer fabric, an ankle cuff for extra warmth, plus Vibram’s patented ICETREK rubber compound sole (as seen on the Bikila Evo WP) for grip and control on outdoor surfaces.
Trek Ascent Insulated: Vibram Blurb
Ideal for those who don’t slow down as the weather gets cooler, the Trek Ascent Insulated keeps feet toasty while battling the elements. Engineered with an ICETREK outsole, this dynamo provides unparalleled grip and balance on icy cold surfaces
Trek Ascent Insulated: Specification
WEIGHT: M43= 7.80oz W38= 6.20oz
SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 4mm Polyurethane + Wool Sockliner //
MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 4mm
UPPER MATERIAL: WR Cordura™ + Polyester + Wool
VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry
Trek Ascent Insulated: Feetus’ Verdict
The Trek Ascent Insulated looks like a moon boot prototype from before space travel was even possible! BUT… We love it. It could be a Marmite shoe: You’re either going to love the look, or hate it. We fall in to the latter category. The Trek Ascent Insulated has a lot of character; the sole is incredible, and the choice of materials for the upper and inner will ensure your feet will stay toasty.
Vi-S: New for 2016
Vibram’s new Vi-S
Open-top FiveFingers have always proved remarkably popular with ladies (maybe that’s why we’re seeing a re-release of the Classic too?). Offering a little elegance, simplicity and ease of getting on and off, the Vi-S is another step in the minimalist direction, and a nice alternative to the existing Vi-B and Alitza Loop styles.
Vi-S: Vibram Blurb
An elegant, form-fitting design, the Vi-S is one part graceful fashion sandal, one part hardworking KSO EVO. A flexible yet high-traction sole makes the demands of everyday life feel effortless. Delicate lace fabric adds a sensual touch that is deceivingly tough, like you. offered for women only
Vi-S: Specification
WEIGHT: W38= 3.17oz
SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial Drilex
Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 3.5mm
UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester
VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry
Your Thoughts
Later this week we’ll be previewing the rest of the styles that will be available from Vibram FiveFingers, but in the meantime, we’d love to get your thoughts on the new stuff!
So, after seeing the new styles on offer from Vibram FiveFingers, what do you think? Are you excited or underwhelmed? Which new style is your favourite, the Bikila Evo 2 or the Spyridon MR Elite; the Vi-S or the Trek Ascent Insulated? Leave a comment below.
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