Categories2014, Barefoot Running, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

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 

About The Author

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

 

Vibram FiveFingers - New for 2014
Categories2014, Barefoot Running, Minimalist Running Shoes, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

Vibram FiveFingers 2014 Sneak Peak #2: The Bikila EVO

New for 2014: The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila EVO

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Our blog post a few weeks back we introduced you to the Bikila EVO, but we’re now able to shed a little more light on the specifics of the shoe, having seen these in the flesh.

The reaction to Vibram’s choice to introduce a shoe with cushioning surprised many of us. Hadn’t Vibram FiveFingers – the company regarded by many as ‘barefoot shoe makers’ – once told us that ‘You are the technology’, claiming that cushioning was not needed?

Goodbye Bikila. Hello Bikila EVO

Anyway… Similar to the KSO, the ever-popular Bikila is disappearing, and instead we have the Bikila EVO: a slightly cushioned, lace-up shoe designed for mid-distance running. The sole is, by shoe manufacturing standards, minimalist, with a maximum sole thickness of 8.5mm, which includes the 6mm of EVA for cushioning, and Vibram Megagrip Rubber Pods for durability and grip.

The ‘redesigned’ shoe features a polyester mesh upper, and comes in a variety of bold colours, from a sure-fire winner black/yellow to the less-appealing-to-most orange/blue.

Vibram FiveGingers BIKILA EVO
An excerpt from the Vibram FiveFingers 2014 Catalogue

Here’s what Vibram have to say about the Bikila EVO

Medium distance running in a minimalist shoe can be challenging for new minimalist users. It takes time for your foot to adjust to an increasingly thinner level of sole. The Bikila EVO is a fully redesigned shoe built for those looking for a shoe that gives the benefits of going barefoot and that has slightly more cushion to offer more support on a medium distance road run. It is still thin, and gives you just a bit more so you can be confident making the switch.

The Bikila EVO Sole

One of the most obvious changes to the Bikila is the new sole, which comprises of 6mm EVA cushioning, nine strategically placed rubber sole pieces, and an EVA heel.

EVA is a lightweight material found in most running shoes. Its strength is that it is extremely lightweight and compresses under pressure, giving that cushioned feel. The downside of EVA is that it wears out very easily – and that’s why you see rubber placed over the top of the squidgy stuff on your sole.

For the Bikila EVO, much of the EVA is left exposed, yet the rubber sole pieces are placed over the high-wear zones of the sole: on each toe, three strips over forefoot, and covering the heel.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Opinion

It appears Vibram have followed the trend set by other major shoe manufacturers by introducing what could be classed as a ‘transition shoe’, meaning, this shoe would be ideal for runners new to ‘barefoot running’ that are not yet ready to have their shoes stripped to the bare minimum.

Many barefoot purists will turn their back on this shoe, but I think it has its place. Although I love to run barefoot and wear Vibram FiveFingers – I still often opt for a minimalist shoe with a 4mm drop and some cushioning.

Many will argue that Vibram are moving away from the barefoot/minimalist roots – and I myself was fearing the worst. But having seen the Spring/Summer 2014 range in the flesh just this week, I would strongly disagree. This year’s EL-X for men, and the ladies’ Entrada and Alitza are as minimal as you’re bound to see. The trend continues with the new-for-2014 KSO EVO.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

The Bikila EVO range to hit the UK in 2014
The Bikila EVO range to hit the UK in 2014

With an 8.5mm sole and zero-drop from heel to toe, the Bikila EVO is still very minimalist. It is in fact, just one millimetre thicker than the Trek sole, as featured on the super-seller Trek Sport and the new-for-2013 Trek Sport Sandal.

The decision to make the Velcro redundant will aggravate many in the UK. While in the US, the LS (lace) styles outsell Velcro styles 3:1, in the UK it is the opposite.

I won’t get chance to test the Bikila EVO until next year, but I am confident that this shoe will be a massive success. I expect barefoot-newcomers to enjoy the Bikila EVO, as well as mid-distance runners who enjoy just a bit more cushioning. The style will appeal to many too, so I’d expect gym-goers and Crossfit addicts to pounce on this.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

One Final Note

Just because the Bikila EVO has more cushioning than its Vibram counterparts – don’t judge this shoe until you have tried it! You may just love it!

About The Author

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

Vibram FiveFingers - New for 2014
Categories2014, Barefoot Running, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

Vibram FiveFingers 2014 Sneak Peak #1: The KSO EVO

Goodbye KSO. Hello KSO EVO

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

We recently got hold of the Spring/Summer 2014 Vibram Catalogue, and thought it would be worth sharing with you some of the new and exciting ‘barefoot’ (or not-so-barefoot) shoes that are going to be available.

A few weeks back we broke the news of Vibram’s plans for the Bikila EVO, and also of the controversial Vibram FiveFingers Vybrid, and over the coming week we’re going to feature some of Vibram’s offerings for next year.

NEW FOR 2014: The KSO EVO

I love the KSO (Keep Stuff Out): My first pair of FiveFingers was a KSO and they lasted me around 700 miles. I ran in them everywhere and really put them through their paces. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one whose first pair were a KSO either. Their aesthetics, practicality, foot coverage and ground feel made them the ideal choice. Even today, my current KSOs are my go-to shoe for short/mid-distance road running and indoor fitness. They really are a versatile, ‘do-it-all’ shoe.

Next year will see the KSO retire, and will be replaced by the KSO EVO.

An excerpt from the 2014 Vibram FiveFingers catalogue
An excerpt from the 2014 Vibram FiveFingers catalogue: The KSO EVO

The KSO EVO will feature the serrated blade lug sole as can be seen in SS13’s men’s EL-X (Entry Level Cross-Trainer), and the ladies’ lovely Entrada and Alitza, with a maximum sole thickness of just 4.7mm.

You will also notice that the Velcro is making an exit, and instead we’re being introduced to a new KSO that is lace-only – the KSO EVO comprising of Vibram’s Speed Lace System.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Here’s What Vibram Have To Say About the SS14 KSO EVO

Built on a platform that offers the best ground feedback in our line, the KSO EVO is one of three shoes that round out our new category: max-Feel. A reinforced upper and speed lace allows for easy entry and a snug fit while the zig-zag patterned sole provides grip and flexibility in all directions. Feel more under foot with more versatility.

    • Weight: M43 = 4.9oz W38 = 3.5oz
    • Max Sole Thickness: 4.7mm
    • Insole: 2mm EVA + Anti Microbial Drilex Sockliner
    • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Opinion

Making the KSO redundant is an incredibly brave move by Vibram. A hugely popular shoe for both men and women, the KSO has been around since FiveFingers shot to popularity after Christopher McDougall’s bestseller Born to Run.

It’s good to see Vibram have maintained the all-black colour-way that has proved to be a bestseller in the KSO.

Many will miss the original ‘razor-siped’ TC-1 rubber sole of the KSO (that also featured on the Speed, Flow, and Classic styles), but it has been superseded by a superior Vibram XS Trek Compound sole. Feedback from customers who have been wearing the EL-X (which features this same sole) has been really positive, so I am sure this will go down well. The jury is still out on how many miles this new sole can sustain.

Vibram’s decision not to offer a Velcro alternative is also quite a surprise, but with the growing popularity of the lace-up styles, this is probably a wise decision.

All in all – This is a radical change and a very bold decision by Vibram, but upon studying the changes closer, they make a lot of sense – and I am certain the KSO EVO will prove to be equally, if not more popular than its predecessor.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AT FEETUS.CO.UK

Vibram FiveFingers KSO
R.I.P. Old Friend: The KSO

Looking to get a pair before they become obsolete? Click here…

Next up… We’ll be taking a closer look at the also-new-for-2014 Bikila EVO

About The Author

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

vybrid-Vibram-Fingers-2014-Feetus.co.uk-barefoot-shoes05
Categories2014, Barefoot Running, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

Cushioning. Stability. Heel-to-Toe Drop. Arch Support. Protection… It’s The New Vibram FiveFingers

Earlier this week we took a closer look at what Vibram had to offer during the Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City, Utah. This included a surprise offering from the minimalist maestros, the FiveFingers Bikila EVO – Vibram’s first EVA cushioned running shoe. Further, Vibram literally dazzled everyone with their Smart Concept sole – a sole that features integrated headlights, a tail light, and optional sensors.

Today, we bring you another new style of Vibram FiveFingers. This one wasn’t showcased at the Outdoor Retailer show, so this one really is a sneak peak!

Before you read on, it’s worth issuing a little health warning to die-hard FiveFingers fans. This ‘barefoot’ shoe contains cushioning, a heel-to-toe drop, and arch support.

Introducing The Vibram FiveFingers Vybrid

Vibram have put their 70-years of rubber-processing expertise to come up with a new generation sneaker. The all-new Vybrid is the result of intensive research and continual testing and development conducted at Vibram’s Technology Centre in Guangzhou, China.

The Vibram FiveFingers Vybrid
The Vibram FiveFingers Vybrid

Certainly, the Vybrid is another of Vibram’s ‘loud’-looking offerings, with illuminous, reflective lines spanning the upper fabric. The Vybrid is also technologically superior, and serves the wearer very well for active comfort. Versatile: you’ll be happy to wear this ‘barefoot’ shoe for walking, hiking, as urbanwear, leisure time, and when travelling.

The Vybrid - Perfect for pushing your broke-down moped around the streets of Milano
The Vybrid – Perfect for pushing your broke-down moped around the streets of Milano

The Five Technological Benefits of the Vybrid

  • Individual Toe Pockets allowing your toes to flex and splay naturally and the foot to move with limited restriction.
  • Forefoot: A slight drop from heel to toe, which according o Vibram, provides the toes with more grip and helps toes to flex.
  • Waist: semi-rigid anatomical shank to help support the arch
  • Midsole: thin and soft EVA to distribute force on impact
  • Heel: a pronounced heel which helps ‘protect and support the foot on impact’
A closer look at the EVA midsole
A closer look at the EVA midsole

Colourful (and Controversial)

The Vybrid will be available in four different colours, each featuring innovative 3M material for night visibility. The fabric will be breathable and will also feature a neoprene sock to improve the foot’s stability and traction on the heel.

The Sole

Believed to be called the ‘Vibrida’, the sole looks like a more walking-friendly Trek (Trek Sport) sole, with the looks less aggressive and more shallow in depth. Although specific details have not yet been released about the shoe, you will notice that the sole looks a good 1cm in height, with clear (although slight) height difference between heel and toe.

It seems Vibram FiveFingers are moving in a different direction from the one they originally set out upon. From their old slogan ‘YOU ARE THE TECHNOLOGY’ they now advertise ‘Discover the new urban technology from Vibram’.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

We’ll be sharing our opinion on the new styles soon, but in the meantime, it would be great to hear what everyone else thinks about the Vybrid and the Bikila EVO, as well as these new styles that we don’t know too much about yet…

Submit comments below…

About The Author

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

 

The world-famous Vibram logo
CategoriesNew Shoes, Science, Vibram FiveFingers by

Vibram Dazzle Fans At The Outdoor Retailer Show

Yesterday we brought to you news that Vibram FiveFingers are planning on releasing a cushioned ‘barefoot’ running shoe called the Bikila EVO. Today, we want to reveal another of Vibram’s latest innovations…

 

Introducing Vibram’s new Smart Concept Sole

If you asked Vibram to shed some light on what they think the future holds for sports footwear, you may get more than you bargained for. They may take out some shoes from a box, and literally shed some light.

Vibram Smart Concept Sole
Headlights, check!

Fitted with a remote controlled LED lighting system that allows the soles to illuminate the ground ahead, Vibram are expecting soles of future footwear to be embedded with sensors that warn the wearer of potential hazards. Interesting.

This was another of those ‘wow’ shoes recently exhibited at last week’s Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City, Utah. They claim the Smart Concept Sole was inspired by military operations, firefighting and law enforcement, and the sole includes an integrated electronic board for controlling integrated hardware, as well as a fob-sized remote control. Further down the line, you could expect to see such remote actions being controlled by smartphone apps.

The Smart Concept sole has three brightness settings plus a flashing red LED tail light. Vibram envision the sole of the future to offer much more. Sensors with warning system, gas sensors, proximity sensors, an temperature sensors to name but a few.

Guaranteed to brighten up your nightlife
Guaranteed to brighten up your nightlife

vibramsmartconceptsole-2 vibramsmartconceptsole-5

Vibram's Smart Concept Sole - Guaranteed to brighten up your nightlife
Vibram’s Bright Idea

 

When Can I Expect To See These Dazzling Shoes?

A release date for such a sole is still a way off. The Smart Concept sole is still just a concept. While it may seem a little daft to some, take a moment to realise the benefits such a sole could have for sports such as ultra-running and night running, cycling and commuting by bike, camping, and other night-time activities. Vibram provide soles for some of the best-known shoe manufacturers in the world, so if they were to pursue this technology, it would most likely be at the request of a third part manufacturer (or at the request of my kids!!)

 

About The Author

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

CategoriesNew Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

Sneak Preview: 2014 Looks Big, Soft, and Cushioned.

Sit tight FiveFingers fans. We have some news about Vibram FiveFingers – and we’re not sure what to make of it…

During this year’s Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City, running shoe manufacturers presented their new offerings for 2014. It appears that the consensus is that bigger is better in 2014.

The Rise (Literally… Pun Intended!) Of Hoka

You may have seen cushioned shoes rise in popularity over the last year or so – especially the rise of Hoka. With their huge rolling, ‘rockering’ soles offering maximum protection, they claim their oversized EVA midsoles ensures a more natural stride. Many of my ultra-running friends have tried Hoka – all with very mixed results.

Next year, Hoka seem to have set the standard, and running shoe manufacturers want to compete. But first up – here’s the new-for-2014 Hoke One One Conquest.

The HOKA One One Conquest
The HOKA One One Conquest

Altra: From Minimalist to Gigantic 

Many of you may have heard of Altra, a US-based running shoe manufacturer who coined the ‘Zero-Drop’ label. Initially, they seemed happy to jump on the minimalist bandwagon, offering shoes that were low in profile, whilst maintaining no difference in sole ‘stack’ from heel to toe.

Now, it appears Altra are shying away from the minimalist shoe, or at least, that’s where they are heading with their new model ‘The Olympus’. Maintaining the ‘zero-drop’ approach, the Olympus is a highly cushioned shoe with 32mm under both heel and toe.

The Altra Olympus
The Altra Olympus

Brooks and New Balance 

A lot of the other manufacturers seem to have gone for the deep, cushioned style. Here, Brooks’ Transcend claims to offer the softest ride of any other Brooks model.

Brooks Transcend
Brooks Transcend

New Balance have developed the Fresh Foam 980 – and to me, the way the sidewall of the sole slopes inward toward the bottom, makes it look a little too unbalanced. Watch those ankles.

New Balance Fresh Foam
New Balance Fresh Foam

And Vibram FiveFingers Present the Bikila EVO

Who would’ve thought? Vibram producing a ‘cushioned’ shoe… Never!?!?!

Well it seems the desire for cushioning has made its way to the champions of barefoot, the emblematic minimalist footwear makers Vibram. Introducing the Vibram FiveFingers Bikila EVO – Built on the ever-popular Bikila (LS), the EVO features a full-length foam midsole to soften your ride. [I thought they told us we didn’t need anything to soften the ride?]

The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila EVO
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila EVO

Iguaneye

Little-known to many, Iguaneye are also releasing their men’s style later in 2013, and we think that Iguaneye’s super-minimalist sneakers will be a huge hit in 2014. Watch this space.

Iguaneye's super-minimalist sneakers: Bound for Glory in 2014
Iguaneye’s super-minimalist sneakers: Bound for Glory in 2014

CLICK HERE TO TAKE A LOOK AT THEIR FANTASTIC SHOE.

And finally, Vibram have another new model for 2014… one that I think many will find quite tasty. But we will save that for tomorrow.

…thanks to Jeff Dengate, editor from Runners World for the fantastic sneak-peak imagery.