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Feetus.co.uk: Number 1 Sport Shop
CategoriesFeetusOnTour, Review, Thanks by

Customer Reviews of Feetus.co.uk

What Customers Think of www.Feetus.co.uk

Ever stumbled across an online store; you like their prices, the site has a nice feel, but you have never heard of the company and it might just put you off? I have. What’s the next thing you do? You might type in Google: “customer reviews of website x” to see what other people think of them… Depending on how others have rated that particular online store, this makes an impact on your decision…

You Love Feetus.co.uk (The Highest Rated Sport Shop!!)

Luckily for us, our customers love us. We love to give the best possible customer service. We like to throw in freebies, and surprise our customers. We’re here to offer help and advice, whether you email us, phone us (07749 545 631), or chat to us via our online chat facility. And to prove that our customers love us, here’s a list of our most recent reviews:

Customer Reviews of Feetus.co.uk

Lou H: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Fantastic service. Can not fault them as a company. Great on line advice, prompt postage, after sales care and discounts. Don’t hesitate purchasing from feetus.

David Turner: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Great service, speedy delivery and love the extras you get to, Thanks will use again.

Sam Cassidy: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

I initially received a pair of Vibram five fingers that I couldn’t get on because of my high arches. When I contacted Feetus and explained, they were only too happy for me to exchange the product. However, some time elapsed before I was able to post the shoes back for a replacement pair (lace ups) but they were still happy to help me out. I’m really grateful as I love my new lace-up five finger running shoes and can’t wait to start training for my next ultra marathon in them.
Thank you so much for the brilliant customer service – I’ll definitely be shopping with you again :).

Amita: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 4 / 5 / 5

I had ordered Vibram five fingers KSO shoes for my son. The responsiveness of Feetus team was exceptionally good. Team was always online to help me to resolve my queries, track the order and ensured that I will get the shoes delivered in less than 24 hours duration. The shoes were packed well along with the toffees :). Also the quality of shoes was very good.
Feetus is very trustworthy and responsible group. I would encourage people to buy sports accessories / shoes etc. Online from Feetus UK.

Karl Cushway: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

I remember talking to Lee before he opened his store and it was good to see someone who knew about the products he was selling. I’ve bought from him a number of times and will continue to buy from him in the future. There are some fantastic offers and you won’t be able to find shoes for a cheaper price, along with the advice and expertise offered to help you make the right purchase.

Zoma: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 4 / 5 / 5

I finally decided to jump on the minimalist wagon. I wanted to get my Vigrams from a recommended retailers. Feetus were absolutely brilliant. I received immediate confirmation of my order and within 2 days I was walking around in my new 5 fingers. Totally recommend this company. Super service.

Rhys Robinson: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Briliant customer service. Initial had some sizing issues with the Vibram SeeYa and Lee was fantastic in advising me in what shoe would fit my training needs. I should have phoned to start with but I am not use to such good service from a seller!! Ended up going with the Komodo, also bought some Red Venom calf guards and these are better than my Skins!! Would recommend to any one!

Jennifer Howland: Rating (Cost / Customer Service / Quality) : 5 / 5 / 5

Great value – the cheapest I have found for a new pair of vibram’s. Dispatched quickly so far so good

 

CategoriesBarefoot Running, Barefoot Ted, Born to Run, Christopher McDougall, Launch, Luna Sandals, New Shoes by

Feetus.co.uk Bring Luna Sandals to the UK

Luna Sandals: Now Available in the UK

We’ve got some great news. You no longer need to order your Luna Sandals from America (and subsequently pay over-the-odds on shipping fees, then customs and duty charges). That’s right. Luna Sandals are now available from your favourite barefoot and minimalist running specialists, Feetus.co.uk.

“Have You Read Born to Run?”

If you’re reading this, the odds are that you’ve probably read Christopher McDougall’s Born to Run. And if you have, you will definitely recognise the name Barefoot Ted.

Well, that crazy guy from Born to Run was inspired by the Tarahumara Indians to create his own version of the huarache ‘barefoot’ sandal, and called it the Luna Sandal.

Here’s the Luna Sandals story:

Once upon a time, Ted McDonald took off his shoes and started running. After a lifetime of being shoed and cast with modern footwear, it took him years to rehabilitate his feet and legs and establish himself as one of the forerunners (get it?) in the field of barefoot running.

Manuel Luna making Ted his first pair of huaraches at the 2006 Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon in Urique, Mexico
Manuel Luna making Ted his first pair of huaraches at the 2006 Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon in Urique, Mexico

In the spring of 2006, Barefoot Ted visited the Copper Canyons of Northern Mexico with a group of elite ultra marathon runners. It was there in the rugged Sierra Madre mountains that Ted met Manuel Luna, a local Tarahumaran, who helped him make a pair of traditional huarache sandals out of an old tire. The seed for Luna Sandals had been planted.

Fast-forward to today, and Luna Sandals now operate from Seattle in North America.

I Love Them… But Aren’t They A Little Expensive?

Yes, they are expensive. But let me tell you a thing or two.

I picked up a pair of Venado Luna Sandals three months ago. I was very sceptical: “Will people really pay £65 for a pair of flip-flops?” Initially, I was impressed by the quality, the fit, and the look. The look was definitely the biggest plus at first – but I still could not understand the price tag, despite knowing that the sandals had been hand-made in Seattle, and were equipped with the best-quality Vibram soles.

Comfort

It wasn’t until at least a month later, I found I was wearing my Luna Sandals every day. I like to work in different locations, and often cycle to-and-from, and my Luna Sandals would travel with me in my bag. They became my most indispensible item of footwear.

Versatile

True, if I’m hitting the trails I will always opt for my Vibram FiveFingers TrekSport Sandals, or if I’m on the road I’ll don a pair of Seeya – but my Luna Sandals have been great because they travel with me. If I fancy going for a run and I don’t have my Vibrams with me, I just have to reach in to my bag and pull out my Lunas. Bingo.

Barefoot-Ted-Running
Barefoot Ted showing us how its done!

No Smell. No Odours

Another big selling point for me is that they don’t smell. I am always conscious of giving my Vibrams a good air out. I learned the hard way and left my first pair of KSOs damp. That was it, I could never get the smell out. I am much more careful now though, and I always get them dried as soon as possible – but with Luna Sandals, this is never an issue.

ATS (All Terrain Strapping) Lacing

And the laces. You don’t realise how functional the ATS lacing system is until you use it. Having used Xero Shoes extensively over the last 12-months, it can sometimes be a fiddle getting the laces right. If you wear Xero Shoes – you will know exactly what I mean. Can you ever get them to stay right where you want them? With Luna Sandals, you’re safe. The laces are comfortable, and stay put!

So, in summary.

Luna Sandals are expensive, I agree – but this is what you get for your money:

  • A durable, top-quality sole made by Vibram
  • A hand-made sandal (not from China. These are from America!)
  • A unique ATS lacing system (that works very well!)
  • Fresh-smelling
  • Comfort like no other sandal
  • Versatility. The Luna’s do-it-all.
  • Suitable for Vegans
  • The novelty: You loved Born to Run. You loved Barefoot Ted. And now you have his shoes.

OK, So What Styles Are Available?

The Venado (Deer en Español)

Lightweight and minimal: 7mm sole weighing just 3.9oz. The Venado was ‘The Original Luna’ and comes with ATS lacing, MGT (Monkey Grip Technology) non-slip footbed, and 6mm of Vibram sole.

Luna Sandals 'Venado' at Feetus.co.uk
Luna Sandals ‘Venado’. Notice the minimal sole thickness.

The Venado will serve you well if:

  • You’re road running
  • You want a casual, day-to-day sandal
  • You are looking for a lightweight travel companion

The Mono (Monkey en Español)

Billed by Luna as the ‘do everything, go everywhere sandal’, and it’s easy to see why. The 12mm sole provides cushioning and stability. The grip on the bottom will keep you on your feet. The Mono also comes with ATS lacing and MGT footbed.

Luna Sandals Mono
Luna Sandals ‘Mono’. Take them outside.

The Mono is for you if:

  • You’re looking for a sandal that is tough and durable
  • You run on road and trails
  • You like to run, walk, and trek long distances
The Mono Sole: A Closer Look
The Mono Sole: A Closer Look

Free Delivery Too

That’s right. Buy your Luna Sandals from us and don’t worry about shipping costs. Delivery is diddly-squat. Free of charge.

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.

CategoriesBarefoot Running, New Shoes, Running Food, Vibram FiveFingers, Xero Shoes by

Get Out and Run While it’s Still Light!

Make the Most of Summer

If you’re an early-riser like me, you’ll have noticed that the sun has been a little slower coming up over the horizon. I have found my running circuit through the woods much harder to navigate, and that my morning bike rides require me to mount a rear light for visibility.

If, on the other hand, you do most of your outdoor fitness on the evening – you may have felt the warmth of the sun slowly fizzling out earlier than it had done the week before, or that you cast longer shadows on your way home from your run.

The Significance of the Sun

The sun, for many, acts as their ticket to outdoor exercise. Many don’t like to run in the dark. Others only get out while its warm. If you’re in that bracket – you had better start making the most of the last of the long summer days.

Summer - 31 days - less sunshine, less daylight hours
How Are You Going To Make The Most Of It?

Today, 21 August 2013 in Redcar (on the North East coast of England) we’re going to benefit from 14 hours and 34 minutes of daylight. This time next month, we’ll have just 12 hours 17 minutes of daylight. That means, over the course of this next month we are going to ‘lose’ 2-and-a-quarter hours of daylight!

Today in London you will have 14 hours 14 minutes of daylight. Next month, you will lose almost 2 hours of daylight, giving you just 12 hours 16 minutes.

It’s Not All Doom And Gloom

The shortening of the days does bring huge benefits to us outdoor-loving folk. We will start seeing nuts and berries really flourishing, and with each day you’ll notice more of the bushes bearing ripe fruit. How about that for free ‘fuel’ while you’re out running? …Just grab a couple of blackberries as you pass by!!

Choosing The Right Shoes

The warmth that summer brings allows us to wear less – And that applies to footwear too. Get out and give barefoot running a whirl. Just slip your shoes off for a mile and see how it feels – You’ll surprise yourself at how much you will enjoy it!

Or perhaps you want to run a little further and need a bit of protection underfoot? That’s where we come in. Here are my top three shoes for the closing summer months:

1. The EL-X and The Entrada

Brand-new from Vibram FiveFingers; the men’s EL-X offers incredible ‘barefoot’ feel, having such a minimal sole. The upper fabric is so light and breathable, it makes running in the warmth an absolute pleasure. The flexibility of the sole also means it is the perfect choice for alternative activities such as slick-lining, climbing, and parkour.

Vibram FiveFingers EL-X
Ha! Self-Promotion or what?!?

While the EL-X is a male-specific style, ladies need not feel left out. They too have some brand-new styles to try out: The Alitza and the Entrada. They feature the same sole as the EL-X, except the upper is exposed giving you maximum breathability whilst exercising. The Entrada‘s style is perfect for yoga, pilates, hitting the gym, and running.

2. Xero Shoes

Barefoot running – except – you pop a sole under your foot with some lacing. Sounds simple, right? …That’s because it is. You simply measure your foot, order your size, and customise your very own huarache-style sandal. Perfect for running. A great substitute for summer sandals that come in colours: black, brown, red, blue, and green.

Relaxing in the Xero Shoes
Relaxing in the Xero Shoes

3. Trek Sport Sandal

Do you like to run off-road, on trails, through woodland, across hills through luscious countryside? Me too. That’s why I keep harping on about how brilliant the Trek Sport Sandal is. I’ve always like the original Trek Sport , but the Sandal version is much more fun, more breathable, and looks better too. The ‘Sandal‘ title might be a bit misleading; this ‘shoe’ features slits in the side and a wicked colour scheme in black and yellow! The Trek sole provides barefoot feel, but features enough tread to cope with the demands of running your favourite trails. This style is my favourite to date – and these beauties are available for both men and women. Result!

NEW-TREKSPORTSANDAL-BREAK
The Trek Sport Sandal – Perfect for trekking!

Freebies

…And don’t forget – All orders over £50 come with FREE DELIVERY and a FREE FEETUS BUFF!

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 Trek Sport Sandal
CategoriesMinimalist Running Shoes, New Shoes, Review, Vibram FiveFingers by

Vibram FiveFingers Trek Sport Sandal Review

Are you looking for the perfect ‘barefoot’ trail running shoe to wear during summer? The Vibram FiveFingers Trek Sport Sandal may be the perfect option.

The KSO Trek Sport is one of the bestsellers at Feetus.co.uk. It features a fantastic sole, ‘grippy’ enough for trail running, yet not too rugged making it a good choice for running too. Many love the Trek Sport for their boot camp training too. Versatile and practical.

BUT… When I first heard saw the images of the Trek Sport Sandal, I thought Vibram had gone mad! Why would they make a ‘barefoot’ sandal with five toe pockets and a rugged sole? Then I saw the recommended retail price. £110 for a sandal… Who in the right mind would pay that?

That is – until the BIG Vibram FiveFingers SS13 shipment arrived on our doorstep. I was bowled over by the Trek Sport Sandal as soon as I saw it in the flesh.

THE LOOK

  • Lace-up system on top.
  • Zig-Zag pattern on the side
  • Rugged ‘Trek’ sole

THE FEEL

My Trek Sport Sandal’s made their debut running the 17-mile Osmotherley Phoenix. I toed the line as the only wearer of Vibram FiveFingers.

The Trek Sport Sandal coped very well on the rugged terrain. Much of the route covers the Cleveland Way, which is a mix of woodland trails, singletrack, stony paths and old rock paths. I was concerned that the vents in the side of the shoes would let gravel in, but this was never an issue.

The Sandals were in their element with it being such a hot (29C) day.

After 12 miles I could feel the shoes starting to rub. I suppose this is natural, given that this was the very first time I had ever worn them running. All new shoes take time to ‘bed in’, and before starting, I was expecting blisters.

CONCLUSION

The Trek Sport Sandal is a very capable ‘barefoot’ running shoe, and handles dry terrain with ease. Comfortable on various terrains, the Sandal is best suited to warm-hot days when the ground is dry.

If you’re a fan of the Trek Sport, you will love the Sandal version. I certainly prefer this to the Trek Sport, mainly due to its breathability and without question its aesthetics. The Trek Sport Sandal looks awesome!

I do feel that Vibram have got their price wrong for these shoes though. £110 is a HUGE amount to fork out on what is advertised as a ‘sandal’. Without knowing exactly how good these are in advance, its difficult to say whether I would be willing to splash the cash on these – but now I have them, they are my go-to pair of Vibrams for trail running as well as day-to-day use during warmer days.

 

Interested… Get yours here: Trek Sport Sandal

Perhaps you’d prefer the KSO Trek Sport?

…Free Delivery on all Vibrams – PLUS – a free Feetus neck tube. 

CategoriesNew Shoes, Thanks, Vibram FiveFingers by

The Brand New Vibram FiveFingers SS13 Stock Is Here!

We received a BIG ORDER from Vibram yesterday. 

In this BIG order, included the red-hot EL-X and the super-cool Trek Sport Sandal – Both of which are brand new styles of Vibram FiveFingers for Spring/Summer 2013.

EL-X_13M0102_COPPIA
EL-X Grey / Orange / Black

EL-X - Black
EL-X – Black

It has taken a lot longer than we expected for them to arrive, but we’re glad they’re here – and they’re in good company too. Popular styles are now (finally) replenished after Vibram’s popularity in the UK saw the likes of the Bikila LS, the KSO, and the Trek Sport SELL OUT!

The Bestseller: The Bikila LS
The Bestseller: The Bikila LS
The Ever-Popular Trail Favourite: The Trek Sport
The Ever-Popular Trail Favourite: The Trek Sport
The Mighty KSO
The Mighty KSO

In their debut day, the EL-X has proved most popular by a country mile, dominating our orders. Not surprisingly really, given it is now Vibram’s best-value offering – as well as being so lightweight, versatile, and good-looking.

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO PRE-ORDERED

We always like to say ‘Thanks’ to our customers – That’s why we pop gifts in each order. But on this occasion, we owe a huge thank you to our patient customers who endured the long wait for their Vibram FiveFingers. THANKS!

…And our customers like to say Thanks too: Check out these lovely reviews here: http://www.freeindex.co.uk/profile(feetus)_530565.htm

 

Free Delivery and Free Gift

Don’t forget… All of the barefoot and minimalist running shoes come with FREE DELIVERY, and if you spend over £50 with us, we also give you a FREE FEETUS NECK TUBE.

Vibram logo
CategoriesBarefoot Running, CQOTW, Vibram FiveFingers by

CQOTW3: Which Vibram FiveFingers for Every-day Use?

CQOTW: What type of model of Vibram FiveFingers can be used for every day use?

As with everything, this can all depend on personal preference. We all know that Vibram make some very quirky styles that are not for the faint-hearted (the Nizza!), and some outrageously bright styles (the SeeYa Day-glow); but they also make some models that are more relaxed, more socially acceptable, and less conspicuous. It is the latter that we will focus on for this week’s ‘Customer Question of the Week’.

The Vibram FiveFingers KSO

A lot of people enjoy wearing the KSO as a shoe that suits both running and lifestyle. This was one of Vibram’s earliest models and the sole is very thin, giving a great ‘barefoot’ feel.
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO
The Vibram FiveFingers TrekSport
Trek Sport is also a popular choice. The black colour-way is less conspicuous and therefore looks a little more casual than some of Vibram’s more ‘vibrant’ models (i.e. SeeYa). The Trek Sport features a more rugges sole, designed for those who enjoy getting out in the trails and/or do light trekking. Again, stock levels are poor (unless you are size UK10+) but more will arrive very soon.
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek Sport
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO Trek Sport
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo Sport (KMD)
The Komodo Sport is another style that looks more like an every day trainer. It features a lacing system and a sensible colour-way. This shoe is designed with the gym-goer in mind, and so the sole is not agressive at all, making it ideal for general wear.
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo (KMD) Sport (this version is the ladies)
The Vibram FiveFingers Komodo (KMD) Sport (this version is the ladies)
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila
You may also like to consider the Bikila. Ideal for road running, for gym use, but many enjoy the Bikila as a casual trainer. The Bikila is a men’s bestseller for Feetus, and we stock this model in a variety of colours as well as Velcro and lace-up (Bikila LS) versions.
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS
The Vibram FiveFingers Bikila LS

Additionally… Vibram’s Spring/Summer 2013 (SS13) Collection is making its way to the UK very soon. This range cover the Trek Sport Sandal, EL-X, Alitza, plus more. You can pre-order yours now and we’ll have them shipped out to you via Special Delivery as soon as they come in! 

If there are any styles, colours, or sizes that we do not stock – please get in touch with us, and we’ll order them in specially for you (and offer them to you at the best possible price!)

And remember – be aware that there are counterfeit (fake) models out there. Make sure you buy genuine… Click here to see why. 

CategoriesReview, Spyridon, Vibram FiveFingers by

PRODUCT REVIEW: Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon

Why Should I Choose the Vibram FiveFingers Spyridon?

If you love Vibrams, but are looking for something more rugged, more trail-friendly, yet minimalist, the Spyridon could be the perfect shoe for you. But is the Spyridon as good as it looks? Feetus.co.uk takes these trail-suited barefoot shoes to the test and offers an unbiased review…

THE LOOKS

The Spyridon look incredible. They feature a laceless, hook and loop Velcro closure system similar to the likes of the KSO and Trek Sport. This system hugs your ankle and folds through a loop over the instep of your foot.

The upper fabric is a coconut fibre material, which is both flexible and breathable, whilst reducing odour.

The upper also features a very attractive design with a kind of semi circle pattern atop a painted material. The shoes are not waterproof or water resistant, so if you’re planning on using these FiveFingers in the rain then you’re bound to experience wet feet. Of course, for most Vibram-wearers, this is quite expected.

THE SOLE

The main reason you would buy a pair of Spyridons is for the sole. The sole is very reminiscent of a mountain bike tyre, with a knobby, ‘grippy’ tread. This tread features quadrilateral lugs that lean and face in different directions, supposedly to offer grip and aid agility when running on trails.

The shoes perform wonderfully in dry conditions. Take these out over some dusty trail or dry single-track and you will be extremely impressed. They offer a great deal of traction, cope well with quick changes of direction, and feel reliable when negotiating technical sections. Providing you are light and nimble on your feet, the sole provides adequate protection, giving you confidence to give it your all on your off-road run.

The Spyridon Sole
The Spyridon Sole

The performance in wetter, muddier conditions diminishes somewhat. I found the Spyridons to lack adequate grip to cope with the demands of technical trails in wet mud. Over 12-miles of the Cleveland Way on a cold, wet day, the Spyridons did not give me the confidence to attack the trails with conviction, and I found myself holding back to avoid slipping too much.

Additionally, I found that once water found its way in to the shoes, they became uncomfortable and not breathable enough.

PROs

  • Perform admirably in dry conditions
  • Perfect for trail running and
  • Good barefoot feel, though not as much as Vibram FiveFingers KSO
  • The look incredible – a great design
  • Good, secure fastening
  • Toe protection

CONs

  • Lack adequate grip in wet conditions
  • Not breathable enough in wet conditions
  • They run slightly small

SUITED TO

  • Dry trail running
  • Obstacle events such as Tough Mudder (the glove-like fit and Velcro fastening means you won’t lose these shoes in deep mud!)
  • Outdoor boot camps
  • Trekking

 

Interested?

Buy your Spyridons at Feetus.co.uk   

Check out our full range of Vibram FiveFingers

CategoriesBarefoot Running, CQOTW, Vibram FiveFingers by

CQOTW: Vibram FiveFingers: Laces or Velcro?

Customer Question of the Week

Every week we get plenty of questions from customers. So many in fact, that we have decided to dedicate a blog post each week to our favourite customer question, which we have abbreviated to ‘CQOTW’. So, without further ado, here is our inaugural CQOTW:

CQOTW1 – Vibram FiveFingers: Which is best, Velcro or Laces?

Vibram’s range of Velcro-fastening shoes are definitely the fastest and most versatile.

The KSO and Komodo Sport shoes have a Velcro that wraps around the heel and then fastens into place over the top of your foot. The Bikila and SeeYa range are more of a slipper-style (no rear strap), with the Velcro fastening over the top of your foot. Shoes that have just one Velcro strap such as the Bikila and SeeYa are less secure, albeit very slightly.

Laces are regarded by most as giving the most secure fit. Despite Vibram’s speed-lacing system, they still take longer to put on than a Velcro counterpart. Laced versions also offer slightly less ventilation, and have less of a barefoot feel.

A Personal Opinion

Personally, I prefer the Velcro versions of all Vibrams. This is because I have narrow feet and when I tie the laces, I feel that there is too much excessive lace (due to having to pull them tighter than normal).

If you have a normal width foot, or have wide feet, go with whichever – they will both serve you just as well.

Looks DO Matter

Taking in to consideration the above, consider looks. Which do you think look the best, lace or Velcro? That may just determine your final choice…

One final note

I have found that runners prefer laces, and gym-goers prefer Velcros. I have no scientific evidence for this, however, I think this is probably due to laces being a more conventional ‘look’ in running shoes, whereas gym-goers often like to look like they are wearing the latest trend – and Velcro, you could argue, looks a little more quirky and unconventional.

Here’s a handy table to help you find your perfect training partner:

Men

Women

Laces

Bikila LS (Black/Green)

Bikila LS (Blue/Grey)

SeeYa LS

TrekSport Sandal

Komodo Sport LS

Lontra LS

SeeYa LS

TrekSport Sandal

Komodo Sport LS

Bikila LS

 

Velcro
Bikila (Silver/Black)Bikila (Black/Red)KSOSeeYa

KSO TrekSport

Spyridon

SeeYa

Komodo Sport

KSO TrekSport

KSO

 

Any More Questions?

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