2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #2

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 //
• MIDSOLE: 4mm EVA // RUBBER: 2.5mm
• UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester Lycra Stretch Mesh + Polyester Microfiber
• VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Bikila Evo 2: Feetus’ Verdict

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

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

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.