Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk
Categories2015, Barefoot Running, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers by

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?

Categories2014, Barefoot Running, Bikila, New Shoes, Vibram FiveFingers, Winter by

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

Categories2014, 2015, Vibram FiveFingers, Winter by

Pre-Order the Bikila Evo WP

Vibram FiveFingers releasing limited no. of Bikila Evo WP early

We released a Sneak-Peak of the Bikila Evo WP earlier this year, heaping praise on Vibram for FINALLY creating something waterproof. We were critical about it all too. Vibram had planned to release the shoe AFTER winter, and had also slapped a whopping £180 price tag on the shoe. Outrageous.

Click here to buy

Influencing for the Better
Shortly after that article, we learned that Vibram decided to put more gusto in to the production of the Bikila Evo WP in a bid to release them BEFORE winter. Coincidentally, the RRP was also reduced to £150.

Now for the Good Bit

  • We’ve secured a limited number of Bikila Evo WP and they’re expected to land in the UK mid-November.
  • We have also slashed an extra 10% off!

Click here to buy

And as always – You’ll get these delivered for FREE (within the UK). 
PLEASE NOTE:
  • This offer is only exclusively available during the Pre-Order period. 
  • Bikila Evo WP stock is extremely limited. We expect to sell out during pre-order. Once our quota has sold, it’s gone; so claim yours early! 
  • Payment is taken at the time of order.
  • Any add-on items made during your purchase of the Bikila Evo WP will be despatched in full once the Evo WP arrives in stock. 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE BIKILA EVO WP

Wear Vibram FiveFingers for your winter training
Categories2014, Barefoot Running, Obstacle Events, Vibram FiveFingers, Winter by

What Vibram FiveFingers Should I Wear In Winter?

Winter Is Here! Which Vibrams Shall I Wear?

PLEASE NOTE –

This is an archived blog post and a new version has been published for winter 2015/2016. To view the new ‘Vibrams for Winter’ guide, click this link. 

We’re seeing a massive shift in the barefoot shoes that people are buying. The days are getting shorter, it’s colder, it’s wetter, and its windier. People are seeking out the best Vibram FiveFingers for winter – and we’re here to help you find the perfect choice.

An Overview

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:

…But if you want to know more, read on! 

A Quick Look at the Soles

Vibram Fivefingers have some excellent styles that are designed for use in colder weather and challenging terrain, but there are two sole types that stand out as the most winter-proof; the Trek sole, and the Spyridon sole (aka the Vibram XS Trek compound).

The ICETREK Sole

The ICETREK sole is unique to the Bikila Evo WP. Built on the same style / shape 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.”

Bikila Evo WP - Men's ICETREK Sole
Bikila Evo WP – Men’s ICETREK Sole

The ‘Trek’ Sole

The Trek sole: A closer look
The Trek sole: A closer look

The Trek sole can be found on the following styles:

With a maximum sole thickness of just 7.5mm the Trek sole is very minimal – but in comparison to some of its peers (EL-X 3.5mm, Seeya 3.5mm) it is more ‘built up’, thus giving less ‘barefoot feel’ (aka proprioception / feedback).

The extra sole depth comes in the form of tread. The lugs on the Trek sole are strategically placed to provide extra grip where it is needed, giving you confidence when running on the trails. The extra sole thickness means the Trek sole is less flexible than other Vibram styles.

The Vibram XS Trek Compound Sole

Sypiridon sole: A closer look
Sypiridon sole: A closer look

The Vibram XS Trek Compound Sole is found on the Spyridon MR.

The Spyridon MR sole is more minimal than the Trek sole with a maximum sole thickness of just 4mm. The sole features multi-directional tread designed to provide traction and stability when you need it most. The Spyridon MR sole is also much more flexible than the Trek sole, and you can easily roll and flex the sole.

A Look At The Shoes

Bikila Evo WP: The ONLY Waterproof ‘barefoot’ shoe

The Bikila Evo WP was released in November 2014 and has created quite a stir. For year, barefoot runners have been calling out for a shoe that is genuinely waterproof, and now we have it.

See our full review here

This shoe features a triple fastening mechanism: A concealed quick-lace system, a full zipper, and a Velcro across the top. The upper fabric is 100% waterproof, the zipper has taped seams, and the ICETREK sole is super-grippy in snow and ice. Despite the wealth of features, the Bikila Evo WP is also extremely lightweight. Its baffling how a shoe so good, so comprehensive, can remain so low on weight.

Buy the Bikila Evo WP

Trek Sport: Great for winter and year-round

The Trek Sport is one of Vibram FiveFingers’ most popular styles. The black/charcoal colourway is arguably more ‘socially acceptable’ and less conspicuous than some of Vibram’s more brighter, vibrant styles. The upper is exactly the same as the KSO (Keep Stuff Out) style, and the Trek Sport style and colour is exactly the same for both men and women.

The Trek Sport: Black / Charcoal, for both men and women
The Trek Sport: Black / Charcoal, for both men and women

Because the upper fabric completely covers the foot to just below the ankle, it provides warmth and does a great job of preventing any objects (gravel, sand, mud) from getting inside the five-toe shoe. The mesh ensures the feet can breathe and the Velcro fastening is a God-send when your fingers are cold; simply pull and stick – no fumbling with numb fingers to lace-up your shoes!

What is the Trek Sport best for?

These are all reasons that make the classic Trek Sport an ideal choice if you are looking for a shoe that will perform in:

  • Boot Camps
  • Off-road running (trail running, beach running,
  • Mud obstacle courses such as Tough Mudder
  • Trekking
  • Day-to-day use

Buy the Trek Sport from Feetus.co.uk

Trek Sport Sandal: Great for trails in milder weather

Vibram released the Trek Sport Sandal in 2013 to very favourable reviews. While the original Trek Sport is great for hitting the trails when the weather is cooler, muddier, and the terrain looser – The Trek Sport Sandal will serve you better when it is warmer, and when the terrain is more hard-packed.

That said – You can provide extra warmth and protection by adding a pair of Injinji toe socks.

More a shoe than a sandal, The Trek Sport Sandal features vents on each side of the shoe providing incredible breathability. The upper fabric is extremely durable and comfortable.

While the Trek Sport is a Velcro-only style, the Sandal is lace-only (LS) and comes fitted with Vibram’s brilliant Quick-Lace system as standard plus a spare pair of conventional laces, giving you the choice of how you lace your Sandal.

What is the Trek Sport Sandal best for?

The Trek Sport Sandal is certainly less of a winter shoe than the Trek Sport, but is equally as versatile, making it a popular choice for the following activities when the weather is fairer:

  • Off-road Running (Trail Running, Beach)
  • Boot Camps
  • Trekking

Buy the Trek Sport Sandal from Feetus.co.uk

Lontra: Water-Resistant and Thermal

The Lontra was the original winter barefoot running shoe – before the Bikila Evo WP was released..  The upper is water-resistant (but not waterproof), and is more padded than any other style, providing thermal qualities to keep your feet warm when it gets cold.

The Lontra features a multi-layer laminate upper with fully taped seams, providing insulation and water resistance. The micro pile fleece liner is soft against the skin while helping wick perspiration away from the foot. Other features include: a neoprene heel cuff to keep out snow and debris, a reinforced hook and loop closure for a snug and secure fit; and reflective surfaces for safety at night. The 4mm EVA midsole provides insulation from frozen surfaces, and the TC-1 Dura outsole provides traction, durability and superior plating protection.

The Lontra feels slightly over-sized, and I suspect it was designed this way to provide extra space inside the shoe to give the wearer the option of wearing toe socks for extra warmth and comfort.

You may also find the Lontra to be less breathable than other styles. This is arguably a fair trade-off given the water resistance element.

What is the Lontra best for?

You will likely find the Lontra best for you if

  • You’re running when it is really cold
  • Snow running
  • Off-road running (unless it is warm)
  • Boot Camps
  • Obstacle events such as Tough Mudder, Mudderling, Spartan Races, etc

Buy the Lontra

The Spyridon: A viable winter option: Copes well in mud obstacle races.

The Spyridon MR is available for both men and women:

The upper fabric is only slightly water resistant (not as much as the Lontra). Like the Trek Sport and the Lontra, your foot is fully covered giving excellent protection against loose objects when running and preventing things such as stones, gravel and mud from entering the shoe.

The ‘MR’ in the name actually stands for Mud Runner and the shoe was designed for off-road, muddy pursuits; the grippy sole akin to that of a mountain bike tyre.

What is the Spyridon best for?

As such, the Spyridon MR will serve you well if you want a winter shoe that still has maximum barefoot feel, whilst still performs well in:

  • Mud obstacle courses such as Tough Mudder
  • Trail Running
  • Boot Camps

Buy the Spyridon MR

A Personal Opinion / Conclusion

It has to be said that the most important aspect of keeping warm in a ‘barefoot’ shoe is not so much in the shoe itself, but in the socks you wear underneath. Without socks, your feet are really going to feel the cold. If you want to continue running and training outside in the colder months, don’t forget your socks!

See our huge range of toe socks

If you’re looking for a pair of Vibram Fivefingers for general use, for road running and for a bit of everything, there is no better product than the Bikila Evo WP. Unparalleled grip, waterproof, and the look amazing!

I personally find the Lontra to be a little too ‘clumpy’, heavy, and rigid. When I run in the Lontra, I lose all-important ‘barefoot feel’ (also known as proprioception, ground-feel, or feedback) and I notice that my running form suffers.

The Trek Sport and Trek Sport Sandal are two of my favourite shoes. Excellent handling, great for long distance, top breathability: I personally cannot find any faults with these shoes, though some may argue that the Trek sole is too thick at 7.5mm). I would argue that the tread depth is essential for all trail running / trekking enthusiasts.

The Spyridon MR, while being a very attractive shoe with what looks to be a very ‘grippy’ sole, I find it to lack the appropriate grip when the conditions get very wet. I also find that the Spyridon MR does not provide the level of breathability that is essential in a running shoe.

Don’t Forget Your Socks

It goes without saying that in winter, a pair of socks can make a difference between a great run, and a downright hideous one. It’s so important to keep the blood flowing in your feet, so make sure you keep your feet warm and comfortable. As soon as you lose feeling in your feet, how do you know if your technique is correct? …You don’t!

Keep Warm: Add a pair of Injinji toe socks to your set-up
Keep Warm: Add a pair of Injinji toe socks to your set-up

A pair of socks will go a long way to keep you dry, warm, and most importantly, running naturally. Specialist running shoes with individual toe pockets require specialist socks with toe pockets. Luckily, we have the best toe socks on the market… Injinji toe socks.

Pick up a pair of Injinji toe socks today.

Customer Questions

1. Brian Holden asked: “How will they [Vibram FiveFingers] fit with toe socks?”

By adding a pair of Lightweight Injinji toe socks, the added ‘bulk’ is so minimal that this will make no difference to how your FiveFingers fit.

Wearing Original Weight Injinji socks under your Vibrams will have a greater impact. If you Vibrams are currently quite close-fitting (i.e, your toes graze the end of your shoe), then the added material from the Original Weight socks will probably be too much, and could cause ill-fitting inside the shoe. This of course, will have a knock-on effect to your running performance and comfort.

Most people will find that, if you are usually a size 43 in a KSO, a size 43 Lontra will feel a little oversized, meaning you could easily accommodate a pair of Original Weight socks inside.

 

About The Author

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