The Bikila EVO 2 has now been rebranded as the V-RUN.
Although we haven’t had confirmation on exactly why Vibram FiveFingers have changed the name of their ever-popular road running shoe Bikila EVO 2 to a less-imaginative name, the V-RUN, it probably has something to do with this court case:
Last year (2015) the family of Ethiopian barefoot marathon champion Abebe Bikila filed a lawsuit against Vibram for allegedly using his name without permission (source: Associated Press).
Vibram have/had been using the Bikila name on their minimalist training shoes since 2010. First with the original Bikila shoe, then the Bikila LS, then again on the revamped version, the 2014 Bikila EVO. This year, the shoe ‘evolved’ again in to the Bikila EVO 2.
Abebe Bikila became famous when he won the 1960 Olympic Marathon without shoes, setting a World and Olympic record in a time of 2:15:16. Four years later, he set the world record again in 2:12:11. Although he died in 1973, he has always been hailed as a true sporting legend and an icon to all runners.
As Vibram market their shoes as “barefoot shoes” that promote a more natural forefoot strike when running, it is easy to understand why the Bikila name is very apt.
Although the new V-RUN name is less imaginable, the shoe itself is still worthy of a gold medal.
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.
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.
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…
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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
WP stands for waterproof (and the shoe is exactly that – completely waterproof!)
The Bikila Evo WP is the only waterproof shoe from Vibram FiveFingers
Built on the ICETREK sole, the WP is designed for extra grip on ice
Two fastening mechanisms: quick-lace AND zipper!
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
Men’s sole (after 30-miles of running)
Everything you expect from a ‘barefoot’ shoe. Flexibility included!
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.
Bikila Evo WP – Women’s ICETREK Sole
Bikila Evo WP – Men’s ICETREK Sole
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.
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.
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.
Every year, when winter rears its head, we are bombarded with customers all asking the big question: “Which pair of Vibram FiveFingers is waterproof”? And we shrug, answering “Well, there is the Lontra, but it is only water-resistant, but you these other styles are also worthy of consideration in winter…”. Until now, we usually point customers to this article What Vibram FiveFingers Shall I Wear In Winter?.
We never expected a waterproof style of Vibrams to ever become available. In all honesty, I had questioned how you could actually make a ‘barefoot shoe’ that also could keep the water out. But now, in principle at least, Vibram have developed just that, and we’re proud to present the Bikila EVO WP.
Introducing the Bikila EVO WP
During a Vibram FiveFingers presentation last year, a spokesman demonstrated the power of this new sole technology they had created. One man attempted to walk over an ice rink in a standard shoes while the other, equipped with a Vibram ICETREK compound sole, made his way over the ice without any trouble at all. Vibram FiveFingers went on to develop this technology further, creating their first waterproof shoe.
ICE Trek Sole by Vibram FiveFingers
Due for release early 2015 (NOW AVAILABLE – CLICK HERE) the Bikila EVO WP is like a cross between the Bikila EVO and the below-parLontra. The WP has this super grippy sole and a waterproof tri-layer stretch fabric equipped with a waterproof zip that comes to ankle height. A lot of customers who bought the Lontra had trouble with the neoprene cuff either being so tight it dug in to their calf/achilles; or is was too slack, ultimately letting in water. Vibram have sensibly removed this neoprene cuff and replaced it with a much improved abrasion-resistant tricot lining.
Exclusive look at the Bikila EVO WP
The sole thickness is exactly the same as the Bikila EVO (6.5mm). The shoe is around 20% heavier (just 150g total weight!) than the original EVO, which isn’t bad considering the extra benefits of the shoe.
WEIGHT: M43 = 5.29oz W38 = 3.88oz
MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 6.5mm (2.5mm
Rubber/ 4.0mm-EVA)
INSOLE: Waterproof Fabric
UPPER MATERIAL: Tri-Layer Stretch
Waterproof Fabric
VEGAN
Hand Wash Cold/Air Dry
The official Vibram blurb: “Same minimalist design as our hard-working Bikila EVO, but with waterproof stretch-membrane construction, taped seams and a water-resistant gaiter to keep the wet environment at bay. An ideal running shoe for those looking for grip, and durability on ice.”
The Feetus Verdict
My concern is that this waterproof shoe has been developed on the Bikila Evo. The Bikila Evo features an EVA midsole, and this EVA material is partially exposed. My experience of EVA is that it is like lightweight, dense rubber. This rubber can contract with each step and return back to its former shape. As the EVA rubber is so light, there is obviously air inside. When the rubber reduces in size, it pushes the air out. Then when the rubber returns to its normal state, it takes air in.
My experience of running with shoes with an exposed EVA midsole is that, (and this becomes more prominent over time, as the outer sole wears thinner), when the EVA ‘breathes’, it soaks up water. While this may be a tiny amount of water with each step, but over the course of a run, when the terrain is completely wet, the EVA begins to soak up the water and your feet get wet.
The Bikila EVO WP
Of course, I may be completely wrong about the Bikila Evo WP. I haven’t tested this shoe yet, but for me it would have made sense to have built this waterproof shoe on the new Trek Ascent. The Trek Ascent also features a 4mm EVA midsole, but at least this is not exposed in any way – with the outsole completely covered with durable rubber.
Save up now, or get wet feet
Only time will tell… but again we feel Vibram have let themselves down with the price tag again. The Bikila EVO WP comes in at a whopping £180 RRP (UK RRP now lowered to £150 – Buy the Bikila EVO WP from Feetus.co.uk now)
With summer just around the corner, this year’s Vibrams have arrived at the perfect time. Whether you’re a road runner, a gym-addict, a mud-loving obstacle runner, or just an all-round leisure-lover, there is something for you!
The KSO Evo has been hugely popular since March (and also now available in blueand red for men, and pink/grey for women), but we reckon the all-new Bikila Evo will be the cool new kid on the block.
The super-reflective Seeya LS Night will literally light up your life, while the new KMD Sport LS is the ultimate gym shoe.
And if you’re one of these mud-loving, obstacle-jumping maniacs, the Spyridon MR is now available, for both men and women.
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 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.
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)
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
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.
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:
Water-resistance: Lontra(please be aware, the Lontra is being discontinued)
Hardcore winter running: The Trek Sport or Spyridon with some decent toe socks!
…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
The ‘Trek’ Sole
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
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.
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.
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
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:
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.
Ladies’ Trek Sport Sandal
Men’s Trek Sport 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:
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.
Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Lontra
Men’s Vibram FiveFingers Lontra
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.
The Spyridon: A viable winter option: Copes well in mud obstacle races.
The Spyridon MR is available for both men and women:
Spyridon MR (Grey/Orange) for men
Ladies’ Spyridon MR
Men’s and Women’s Spyridon MR
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:
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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