What Barefoot Minimalist Shoe is best? (The SHOES we wear)
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- čas přidán 5. 06. 2024
- We have been testing out a lot of barefoot-style minimalist shoes and we want to give our reviews of which shoes are best and why. Hopefully, you'll understand why minimalist shoes are important, why going barefoot is important, and what to consider when getting a minimalist shoe! We review the top brands like vivobarefoot, xero, lems, feiyue, merrell, vibram, and more.
Why Minimalist Shoes? - 00:00 - 01:13
How Much Should you Wear Your Minimalist Shoes? - 01:14 - 02:30
Xero Shoes - 02:31 - 04:20
Vivobarefoot Shoes - 04:21 - 05:40
Lems Shoes - 05:41 - 07:14
Feiyue Shoes - 07:15 - 08:40
Honorable Mentions - 08:41 - 10:51
GIVEAWAY! - 10:52 - 11:57
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Have you considered the effects of shoes? Mainstream shoes usually prioritize style over the actual health of our feet. Sure, there are shoes that are designed for comfort with things like extra padding, or they're designed for balance or for athleticism, but they still end up constricting the sides of our feet which doesn't allow our feet to spread out or grip like our feet naturally do. So let's think about how are feet naturally move, how wide our feet are, and how are feet move when we're barefoot. For optimal feet health, check out these minimalist shoe options. Let us know what you think! - Zábava
Comment below what your favorite minimalist shoes are. Are there any that we missed?
BAREFOOT GIVEAWAY WINNERS CHOSEN! Thank you to everyone who entered!
hey im here early, can u send me over a pair of minimalist shoes please!!!! im a huge fan but im broke :(
czcams.com/video/bjnUGHMnmD4/video.html
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I've been doing workouts barefoot since I started with full body for beginners years ago.( I still get my but kicked by it) I wear Redwing boots as I am in maintenance field, however, I'm a Supervisor so I think I will be inspired to get those minimalist boots. Those looked great. For anyone to feel better, work out barefoot, it is humbling and real for that matter. These guys have changed my life, I'm 55, look and feel great.
Soft star is one of my favorites. I also have Lems and Altra as well as a pair of Earthrunners. Soft star is handmade here in the US. Drawback to Lems, made in China and sizing isn’t consistent. Altra has taken some of their best shoes, made changes and now they aren’t great. Solstice was my favorite from them. I’m barefoot all the time so I’m very particular about shoes when I’m wearing them.
My mom never allowed me to be barefoot, so I develop lots of issues with my feet, I entered martial arts and realized I had a huge problem, I got the Vibrant 5 fingers and started walking barefoot as much as possible, working on extending my fingers(for that the shows were awesome) and now I have strong healthy feet🙌🏻
How long did that process take you and did you have any issues along the way? Currently trying to go more barefoot myself and wearing xeros, to fix my flat feet
@@tobiashoffmann78 1-5 years is the norm depending on your problems and level of effort you put into it.
I'm about 3months into my barefoot shoes, after working in mandatory builders-sholes gave me halgus valgus. I would say the current progress is good, my "center of balance" is a lot lower now, i have better grounding with my feet and my balance, it's like it used to be when i did martial arts.
Keep going man walk 30-40 minutes a day in them if you are not very un-fit and you should see results.
I also got me a pair of Correct toes i walk with in them that has probably speed up the process quite a bit.
I wonder if he's single
Same here with my mom
Same! I was always being encouraged to wear slippers in the house and shoes everywhere else.
My favorite are the Vibram Five fingers. I love that I have the feeling of walking barefoot . And the toes are spaced apart and not squished together. When I hike in my Vibrams it’s like acupressure treatment for my feet. At the end of my hike my whole body feels more energized and alive. It’s amazing.
this. one thing i noticed on my first hike with them is my calves got way more sore than usual, probably because the shoes forced me to use a lot more of the muscle and tissue in my legs
My V-Trail are awesome, wear them all the time.
ya vibrams are great.
i own v-run v-trek and a pair of kso 👍
Vibram is the one I would go to for every run, long or short. It took me a while to get use to them but once you are, you would love the ground feel, the ground grip. and the natural toes movement. I am used to people looking at me weirdly because I just love them.
:)) Have these too. Family was skeptical but have deelopped v strong calves from running in them. People do look at your feet a lott right ^-^
Which one do you recommend for starters?
running barefoot on concrete isnt natural though, wouldn't it be more ideal to run on grass, dirt etc? or does it not matter.
@@shmokey59 I loved my Vibrams before they wore out. Planning to try the Xeros or Lems but to your question, if you're going to run in the Vibrams, I suggest avoiding the hard surfaces especially at first while you're adjusting.
Hi there ! Big Vibram Fivefingers nerd here 😆I've been wearing them for years, as well as different models from Vivo. I'd say their biggest advantage of the toe separation is it actually gradually reverses the toe compression you get from wearing regular shoes. Also I really get the sensation of gripping the floor to a larger extent than with other barefoot shoes. I'd say another advantage (could be considered a drawback) is that people ask about them, and you get to spread the message about barefoot shoes ! 😉
I started with FiveFingers and still love them. But, I can not justify spending $100+ every six months on shoes... because that is how long they last.
It's not really their fault either; making anything last long when the material is that thin is currently impossible.
And to be fair, most shoes only last 6 months with everyday use.
But oh, how I miss them. That whole gripping the floor thing was amazing. I walked so much better in them.
I found a brand of barefoot shoes that are super cheap compared to the rest that I love almost as much but, just not the same. (And, I have to swap out the insoles in the shoes cause they ones they come with suck.. but hey, at least you can unlike MOST barefoot shoes.)
$15 a month (15x6 = $90) for having healthy feet is pretty reasonable, I don’t understand that mindset. Not having healthy feed generates tons of issues.
My Xero prios are falling apart but still usable for runs five years later - not too bad for about $150 (AUD)
nerd label is because people are insecure about their looks
@@OgdenM what are the cheaper shoes called? looking to get into the barefoot shoes but dont want to drop 150 dollars in the chance i dont like them
For me the Wildling shoes soles are the most minimal and comfortable. I like their minimalist designs and responsible attitude to manufacturing. Another favourite brand that I wear in the midseason is Softstar, the model is Primal Sawyer.
In Summer I wear Shamma sandals.
Yes wildling is the best!
Are they suitable for working out? Body weight and running type stuff
@@alexanderarena3134 For me they are perfect for working out. For running I would consider something with more cushion. But it all depends on individual needs.
I got Wildings shoes a few months ago after trying many of the other brands and I really enjoy them as well! I think they're my favorite!
After trying many of the top brands in barefoot shoes, Wildlings took the win for me as well. From the truly light & barefoot feel, to the ultra clean materials (linen, organic cotton, etc), they are in a class of their own:)
I love my Vibrams. I don't wear them all the time but I do wear them a lot. I've ran in them, did mud run and obstacle course races with them. They are my favorite to ride my Onewheel with too. I'm sure they can look nerdy because of the individual toes and such but I think having the toes separated really help keep them tight to my feet like a glove which I appreciate. Now that the weather is getting warmer I plan on wearing them much more.
I just bought a pair not long ago due to accumulated weakness in my foot and ankle which has led to a tight calf muscle which has created a dog chasing it's tail situation...which I'm still working with!! when I was young I lived in my bare feet but then I got to a certain age and (I don't even know why) for some reason I just started covering my feet now I'm paying for it. I love my new minimalist shoes...I'm already getting ready to buy another pair because I use mine for the gym lol
thanks for the confirmation cuz I knew that was what I had to do for my feet and just seeing your video this morning drove the point home I love your Channel! I'm only new here but I've already learned a lot and it's what made me realize I had to get back into my bare feet!! I'm incorporating as much as I can for where I'm at thanks for being there 😊
ps... I'm not entering to win the shoes because I don't do instagram... I just wanted you to know I appreciate your Channel :))
I’ve been wearing the Altra Escalante, love them. Wide toes, zero drop, feels very natural with a minimum of arch support. And their Lone Peak hiking boots for rougher trails.
how is altras fit true to size, for example your barefoot size 29 cm same size in altra?
What up Josh! I’ve been following you for a couple years now. Love the videos! They’ve definitely helped me transition from the powerlifting/Olympic lifting mindset into a more primal movement/calisthenics mindset. My body has loosened up and I’m feeling better than ever. I have not made the switch to barefoot shoes yet and would love a chance to try out these xero forza trainers (size 10.5) or 10 if they don’t make half sizes. You’re the man ✊🏼
I off with a pair of hand-me-down five-toe shoes. I loved the feel. Chronic knocks on the looks from others. When they wore out, I was hooked. I got a pair of Xero Prios and loved their "solid" feel and started to wear them everywhere. I also bought a pair of Vivo waterproof, insulated hiking boots for winter wear. I didn't want to wear the Prios while doing home remodeling, so I bought a cheap pair of Saguaro shoes. I LOVE them! They are super wide in the toe box and feel like I'm wearing socks. Two issues with them. The soles do wear quickly. AND, I cant stand wearing the Xero or Vivo shoes anymore. They feel too constricting and hurt my pinky toe that just wants to spread out and move! I'm buying more Saguaros. $40/pair.
Love your content! Thanks for helping me get this 50+ year old body in the best moving condition of my adult life!
Love to try the Xero Forzas in 9.5! I've been wanting to start wearing minimal shoes, but haven't pulled the trigger yet! I'm in my late 30's now and starting to feel aches in pains in my legs and back! Just started following you guys and have been really into stretching and getting myself flexible and feeling better physically!
I am a yogateacher and over time, my feet changed: they became wider, more flexible, stronger too. It then became difficult to find comfortable shoes, not to mention that I do not tolerate discomfort.
In summer, I occasionally trail-run. My first barefoot shoes came from a Spanish brand (Camper), that does traditional shoe crafting, yet has a model that functions much like a barefoot shoe, which is the Camper Peu. As mentioned, I value comfort very much and they were just like "slipping on a glove" (and pretty, too), so I have 3 pairs of them. My second brand, consciously chosen, were 5 fingers, where I have two pairs of, a summery one and a pair I did trailrun with. In my opinion, they come closest to walking barefoot. I had no issues with transitioning (other than a sore soleus from switching to run on the forefoot), yet I do not run further than 3k. Yes, you will stick out of the bunch. It is a VERY special esthetic. Plus, I find them difficult to maintain. I put them in the washer at least once a season (rather twice). They do not respond well, over time (the glueing starts to loosen). Note that I'm talking European technics. I don't know whether you still have those weird washing machines w/the spinner in the middle, in the US. I guess, washing them in these might make it even worse.
Last year, I discovered Groundies, who do super-stylish minimalist shoes at a very reasonable pricing. They have training shoes, too. I highly recommend checking them out, though I don't know about the shipping conditions when you live outside Europe. They even offer different toebox sizes (regular & wide - I'm good w/regular, and I consider my feet being wide). I am especially in love w/the model that looks very much like Converse, which I like style-wise but could never wear, due to my unwillingness to suffer from foot pain.
Been waiting for a video about minimalist footwear from y'all, glad to finally to see it, I've been using the vibram five fingers for quite some time now, they were quite liberating, also after wearing narrow shoes for so long, the five finger compartments helped naturally space the toes a bit more, used them for sports too, but it only resulted in more wear and tear, but otherwise great for training walking running or other low impact activities, some of them still have a thick sole but there are shoes which have a more barefoot/minimalist feel, but great for starting out I guess
Barefoot snow boots. Steger Mukluks. Ely MN. The camo boots. They don't know how to size their own boots. Buy a minimum of 2 sizes bigger than your actual size. And if your going for super cold weather (-50 degrees F.) Go for the largest size so you can wear extra liners.
Both my wife and I began moving into minimalist shows ~ 3 years ago and have found tons of benefits to date (disappeared knee, low back pain etc) so we're sold and almost wear ONLY minimalist shoes. Appreciate this brand overview.
Love it
I turned 40 and have started taking martial arts lessons. It's been embarrassing how bad my balance is on one foot with no shoes on. It didn't use to be, I swear!
Not happy with giving up, I eventually found years of wearing "fashionable" shoes might be part of the problem.
I'm a few months into my barefoot journey and looking to upgrade my footwear and myself!
Thanks @thestrengthside; your CZcams channel has been invaluable.
Xero Forza, size 13 :)
I found a pair of minimal boots that fit the bill for my job and have been wearing them at my standing desk for over a year now. They feel great! The Xero shoes would be a great addition to my growing minimal footwear collection.
I’ve been wearing the Vibram Five Finger shoes for running since 2014. I rolled my ankle in a pair of Nikes back then and haven’t been able to run in a “normal” pair of running shoes since because, I consistently roll my ankle over the sole of the shoe.
The Vibrams are great because, the toe spread is the best I’ve found in a minimalist running shoe. These shoes don’t rub the foot too bad if you put them on correctly and wear socks with them so you won’t have to worry about blisters too often. Overall, the shoe pretty much feels like a glove for the foot rather than an actual shoe. I believe it allows the runner to get very close to primal barefoot running like how our ancestors did.
I recommend listening/reading “Born to Run”. It’s a great book. There is a guy in the book that is referred to as Barefoot Ted. This book is what helped me get into the realm of minimalist running.
Nice video guys, very good overview!
I really like my Vivos!
I have bought now 3 pairs of them and i like them all.
I have 2 for summer and now bought a newer leather one for the colder days.
They just look cool and are super comfortable!
I found Vibram a few years ago and instantly fell in love. If it ain't broke, don't fix it haha but i love all of the other brand information! Did not realize other companies existed and comparable! Thanks guys!! I nerd out on your videos as an integrative nutrition health coach and holistic wellness professional. I just moved out to Wyoming/Colorado and am looking into getting some barefoot hiking shoes thanks to this video!
I love the Vibram toe shoes. About a decade or more ago, I'm pretty sure my little toe broke while standing at work in running shows all day. And after that, normal shoes were no longer comfortable. I gave the toe shoes a try, and fell in love. A couple of down sides, were that they were too thin to wear in the cold, and my feet could get sore on long rugged trails. My second and third pairs were with the thicker soles, and that helped on the trails. I'm interested in those Xero boots that you mentioned, for the cold. Very informative video guys. The only thing that could have helped more, would be to know if any of those brands had vegan options, but I know that isn't a consideration for most people.
This video came at the perfect time! I've been recently getting into walking alot outside, and i think I might go with the Lems! Plus, I live in Colorado too! So I might see you guys out there. Great video and thank you for the recommendations!
In my opinion u can’t go wrong with the Lems Primal 2
@@Strengthside yep, I went with the black Primal 2s, and I got the Boulder boot as well thanks to you guys. Keep up what yall do.
Man, thanks to you and your recommendation of Move Your DNA book I've ordered my first pair of minimalist shoes yesterday. Can't wait for them!
Same! First I got the book from the library. Then I bought two copies plus Grow Wild, about raising kids to use their bodies more. Plus I subscribed to Katy's podcast. She's changing my life. All thanks to Strength Side.
I thought it was crazy that you guys put out a shoe video RIGHT after I received my new Feiyue shoes in the mail! Yes, I ordered them after watching one of your videos. Copying you , even though I’ll never be as strong as you (69 years old), but I’ll strive this year to be stronger! I saw a quotable quote awhile back: “If you think you can, you probably can, but it you think you can’t, you’re correct!” I want the Xero in a size 9! Keep the videos coming, they are very motivating - even for old folks. Terry Pownall
Thank you! I'm new to minimalist shoes so this is really helpful. I just ordered three pairs of shoes from three different companies you recommended (for hiking/walking, casual and "formal/business attire"). Next step is to clear my closet of all the shoes that pinch my toes -- not all my shoes yet, but it's a start.
Ellen, thank you. I am going to buy my first pair soon. What are those you bought from different companies. I live in Montreal, Québec, Canada
@@jeanjulienguyot I bought Merrill Vapor Glove 5 for walking/hiking, Feiyue Fe lo 1920 for everyday, and Xero Phoenix (leather) for formal/business. The Merrills are great. I've hiked in them on a 3-mile trail (so far) and they are really comfortable. I returned the other two pairs. The Feiyues were too tight and Xeros were so short that my toes were jammed up into the front of them. It's expensive. I had to pay shipping both ways on the Xeros and one-way on the Feiyues. The video warned that Feiyues don't have a wide toe box so I should have known, but they are so cute that I was hoping I could wear them. The Xeros were just mis-sized. They were not the size they claimed to be even though the website said that they would be "true to size." I won't buy Feiyues or Xeros again on-line.
@@EllenEmery Thank you SO much for this well documented feedback about your own experience this is gold for me. MERCI !
@@jeanjulienguyot You are very welcome!
I bought the Merrell 'Vapor Glove 5' shoes, they're the first pair of barefoot shoes if used and overall I like them. Very light and refined, very little cushion. Feels like the base form of a shoe. The price was also fair.
Great video. Love how yall give your opinion as well as clean and swift pros and cons as well as demo b-roll. Very helpful for those interested.
Thank you guys so much!! Im on a search to try some barefoot shoes and I need all the help I can get!
I own the Lem’s Primal 2s in all colors. But I think the Primal Zens for HIIT Jump roping(Crossrope) & Burpees are a little better!for me personally. I’m 18 months into Barefoot shoe journey and at 65 find it very uncomfortable when wearing traditional shoes. I don’t wear them anymore and the chronic foot and toe issues that were forerunners of leg & knee problems have dissipated significantly.🙏🏽
Waiting on my pair of primal 2’s to come in. Been wearing the boulder boot for about 2 years
Lems are so good
thanks for your comment. I'm 55 and trying to get into this movement. I go barefoot as much as can and it's been a game changer for me.
Also lots of shoes on Amazon sometimes sold under "water shoes", sometimes "running". I;ve had 3 different companies. Loved them all. Wide toe box. Removal cushoning. I've tried 3 different Hiitave models and Saguaro. Much, much cheaper too!
My first minimalist shoes were Vibram fiver fingers (a gift), and my favorite shoes ever (wearing them right now) are the VFF-CVT-hemp shoes. They're extremely minimalist and weigh less than my flip flops. I also wore VFF hiking shoes for my favorite race ever, when I set my half marathon PR on a trail race. I tried to use them to train for an ultra, though, and somewhere around 15 miles into my training runs, I would invariably miss a step and hit a root or a rock really hard and was bruising my soles. I switched to Altras at that point and they became my main running shoes for years after that. This was when they were still pretty minimal (I bought 3 pair of the Instinct 1.5s). I still use altras for trail running and sometimes hiking. I think the biggest issue with the VFF shoes is fit. If your toes happen to fit well into them, they can be great, but if they don't fit just right, they can be unwearable. Also, since one of my feet is significantly longer than the other, I blew several pair out around the big toe of that foot when I was running regularly in them.
More recently, I've fallen in love with the Vivobarefoot shoes. I love that they're responsibly sourced and often hand-stitched (sometimes in Africa). They've been my main work shoe for years and I've worn out several pair of their desert boots. Right now, I have several pair that I wear for going out and for dressier occasions. They also made my favorite hiking shoe ever, which I'm still using. It's leather and waterproof and has excellent traction. The magna forest escape seems to be the closest thing to them that they currently offer, but I haven't had to replace mine yet, so I haven't tried them.
Unfortunately, I'm wearing less minimal shoes right now because I developed a bone spur in my heel (many years of high-mileage running in minimal shoes on pavement, and I'm a bigger guy). I still wear them around the house and for going out, but not to work or for running or if I'm going to be doing a lot of walking.
Thank you for this video.The truth is that I never knew about minimalist shoes. I have learned so much from your channel. My flexibility and strength continues to improve. I like the Xero forza shoe. I will be 52 years young next month and I keep pushing my body to the limits for the next challenge. Thanks again guys. Keep inspiring 🪬
I started with Vibram 5 fingers. Love them. Then I tried Xero (shoes and sandals) love them too. Best I tried is Vivo shoes and boots. I use all three for exercise, running, biking and casual. I have been a barefoot shoe wearer ever since Born To Run book was published.
I've only worn 5 fingers for 13 yrs...except flip-flops or Crocs for work...love to hear more on your selections!
I have only worn 5 finger/ Vibrams for 13 yrs..train in/out of the gym..I'm old & broken now but mostly because of joint/muscle issues. Crocs for work & flip-flops for casual. Only now developing hammer toe with my second/ index toes..? I think the design has changed or..I'm just old!? 💪🏼🙃🤙🏼
Primal 2 were my first minimalist shoe I tried back in 2016! It's cool to see it getting more exposure/love. There are some holes in the mesh now and the tread is pretty much gone but they STILL function for walking or light training. I think something people don't mention about minimalist shoes when discussing price is the build quality you typically get. None of the big brand shoes I ever had growing up lasted more than a year or two of basic walking (was not an athletic kid) but my minimalist shoes are all going strong many years after the purchase.
I have a few different lems shoes...boulder boot, primal, 9-5 and they are all excellent. The only small issue I have with the primal 2 is the inserts can feel a bit slippery on your feet when wearing socks, luckily inserts are removable. Can't say I'm too thrilled with lems newer offerings though, for the reasons you guys pointed out in the video. I don't run in them but I can also vouch for xero huaraches for a warmer climate, they are an insane value for the price. Picked up my first pair of vibram five fingers recently as I wanted something a little beefier than the primal 2 for hiking. The vibram toe separation is actually a great benefit as my toes are still a bit crooked (esp. the pinky) from wearing standard shoes for so long even though I made the switch years ago. I know they don't look "fashionable" but wearing them is such a good experience I stopped caring about that. Awesome video guys, been really curious about your perspective on this.
Just started my minimalist shoe journey a couple of months ago with a pair of Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit shoes and I couldn't be happier. They do get cold and wet in the winter weather though, so I need a more weather proof pair for the bad days. Can't see myself ever going back to mainstream shoes.
LET'S GOOO!!! I've been waiting for a follow up to your OG barefoot shoe video a couple years back! Xero and Vivo are both my jam, Xero for athleticism and vivo for more street style haha. Splay is another good brand I mess with, and even those $40 Amazon Whitin shoes are decent too. Been eyeing some Lems as well, may have to cop a pair in the near future!
The Forza Trainers by Xero look very efficient for my style of training which is really similar to what you guys do! Though I’m new to the barefoot community, I already have a pair of Feiyues that I’ve gone through pretty fast 😅 cheers to you all! I inspire to get to your level of strength and movement ✨ (P.s.. I wear a size 12 👀)
The Xero Speed Force is what I wear almost every day. Very light weight, nice and wide so it doesn't squeeze my foot at all, and it looks decent.
I started with the five finger shoes years ago. Loved them but my husband hated them haha
I started wearing Xero many years ago and have a bunch of pairs of their runners and sandals. Love them!
I ordered some ZAQQ from Germany because I wanted some dressier shoes and I've been living in the knee boots for a month while I've been traveling Europe. I've hiked up and down hills, run through train stations and airports and they have been super supportive without crushing my toes. Plus they look great for work.
I also have a pair of SOQQs from ZAQQ and they are super comfy. I wear those when I'm just out and about.
I'm on the ZAQQ website, thanks to you. Finally, I see some minimalist sandals that I like!
This is the Best, Zero Drop Footwear Review that I have seen. It is like a Light,Fun Documentary. Nicely Done. Thanks!
Turning 50 on Monday has made me rethink a lot of things and foot health is one of them. I'm barefoot around the house and while working out. Wear the traditional Converse in public and trail runners while running. I've heard a lot of great things about Xeros and the Forzas look great. Actually, as I'm a size 11, I like both the Forzas and the Feiyue shoes. If I'm lucky enough to 'win' either would be great! Unlike a lot of minimalist shoes, these don't look too nerdy lol.. Your videos are super informative and entertaining, you guys are great! Moving into the next phase of my life I'm making my body "more"...to be comfortable and feel better. I'm following your paths as a great example, although a later start, its a good path and mindset.
Thanks fellas, keep up the great life!
I wore out my Xero trail runners, now trying out Altra trail runners. The sole is much more substantial than the Xeros, but still minimal like a barefoot shoe. So far working out great. Thanks for the review.
I used to wear Altras before Xeros but their most recent versions had smaller toeboxes. Hopefully they've changed that trend but for someone who used to buy EEEE width shoes I'm probably not going back
My favorite minimalist shoe that I think you'd both dig is the Wildling. They're thin fabric with crazy flexible soles and they do have thicker/warmer version for colder temps as well.They're from Europe and more expensive than Xeros, but cheaper than Vivo and they got shipped to me in the US in under a week when I ordered them.
They are really great. Was the best experience within barefoot shoes!
Love the details of this video, guys. Well done! I personally use altra for trail and road running with vivos as a crossfit/movement shoe but given their price have been looking around so definitely gonna look into the Lems and Feiyues.
Appreciate ya
Great video guys! I have Lems and zero shoes and really enjoy wearing either one! The boulder boots I never heard of until I saw the video on this topic on Trevor’s Gym Free Athlete channel ! Great channel too by the way! Apparently Lems has another version of the boulder but with lugs for better traction in the gooey stuff. Better in the Canadian PNW forests where I am but the Boulders still do great!
Cheers!
I wear the Vibram FiveFingers!! Initially my goal was to increase strength and mobility in every toe joint because I was about to start a new business where I use my feet in VERY dynamic ways. Then over the years I realized they’re a great water shoe, and way cuter than most water shoes because most of them a pretty ugly anyway. And it also turns out they’re great for hot yoga! I get SOAKED in sweat from head to toe, and end up slipping and sliding all over the place. But not anymore when I wear my Vibran toe shoes! I can totally see them doing great for the Dirty Dash as well, but I don’t wear mine for that because they’re light green and it’d probably ruin the color. But if they were black I so would!
They’re great for everything. I’ve been rock climbing and also scuba diving (putting them with open fins)😂 I use them mainly for running now..
Yeah, good call! I can totally see how they’d be great for so many activities, especially when you need more dexterity in your feet 😎
Great Informationen! I have to total agree with wearing minimalshoes. Here in Germany we have the brand leguano. I am wearing this brand since 6 yeahrs. I had a lot of surgerys at my back and my knees. Minimalshoes are a important foundation for me and my healthy lifestyle. Take care.
They sell to the US now too. I got a pair of the Huskies for the winter.
I have been interested in the Leguano shoes marketed toward court sports, specifically pickleball (which I think I will try soon but not sure how my other minimalist shoes can handle the lateral forces/motions in court sports).
I’ve been eyeing out the Xero Forza shoes for a while! I’ve been getting into barefoot shoes and loving them. Never pulled the trigger on getting the Forzas cuz of some medical expenses. But it’d be cool to win them! Great video guys, gonna show my brother it.
I got my first pair of barefoot shoes (Xero Prio) a few months ago and absolutely love them. I feel more agile and in touch with my balance. I've been wearing them every day, including to the gym, and they are taking a good beating. I'd love to have another pair more dedicated for the gym, which would also give my current pair more time to rest, and the Forza Trainers would be perfect!! Thanks so much for sharing informational and inspirational content - love your channel 😊
As a Kung fu student, I’m very familiar with those darn cavas shoes. 😂 It took a while to adjust to them but now wearing them is kinda second nature. They do wear out pretty easily though if you’re not super aware of your feet (like dragging your feet when moving/kicking etc)
Merrel gloves are my favourite
My favorite shoe is the Merrell trail runner. I've been buying them for years, they last me about 2 years wearing them daily. Great for hiking. I've had the Xero barefoot sandals for 4 years now and they are sill holding up great! I only wear those in the summertime because I live in the Midwest US and it gets too cold for sandals for most of the year. Thanks for the tips!
this was a great, no BS overview of the shoes and companies. thank you!
I once almost got myself a pair of Vibram 5 fingers, just for training purposes (no way I'd be wearing them in public :D ), but then realised that I had to buy special pairs of socks as well... It's a commitment I wasn't willing to take haha
You don’t have to wear the socks. I’ve been wearing Vibrams for more than a decade and have exactly zero pairs of toe socks. 😂
I also have never worn socks with these shoes. I’ve never even heard of that actually. I wonder why that person thought you’d need socks 🤔
Fair. I’ve thought about trying them a number of times as well.
@@lili7309 I live in the UK, to train outside in Winter you'd have to wear socks, otherwise you'd be freezing 😭
Serrano by Onitsuka Tiger, but they are a bit narrow.
Terrific and informative video as usual 🌟. I’ve been wearing the TSLA minimalist shoe the past few years and also Vibrams. I’d like to try a different shoe just to get more of a taste of what’s out there. Would love to try the XERO in size 11. Thanks again guys for sharing your knowledge!!!!
Great video. I'm a huge fan of the Xero Denver Leather winter boots. Feels like you're wearing a thick pair of socks. So comfortable. Happy with all of my Xero purchases, even the Z-Trek sandals feel great. I am a VFF fan too. I started my minimal footwear changeover with them. I have all black Vivo's for casual/almost dressy wear and like them a lot too. Thanks for helping to spread the word on improving our foot health. If we could only get one of these companies to produce a safety work boot/shoe then all of our bases would be covered!
My vivos are quite stiff. ANy suggestions? I'm ready to try either another style or another brand...
The biggest problem with Vivobarefoot is that their soles wear out quicker than other barefoot I have tried.
If your in Europe they have a program where you can mail your used shoes in and they repair them which is awesome! Reuse reuse as much as possible. 🙏 I hope they expand it to the US soon.
Edit: UK only at this point.
@@harmonycomesfromwithin "UK only" what a shame...
@@zbridgjpxupzm yes, I wanted to correct that, but CZcams would not let me edit or add to my comment. I realize it’s frustrating but I know that they’re looking to expand this program and the fact that they’re already doing this in the UK is a huge accomplishment! I believe it is just a matter of time to expand the program. Well, and awareness. Not many are even aware of barefoot shoes in the US. Thank you to strength side for helping with that awareness. 👍
You guy's rock!
I'd love to enter the contest for the Xero Forza Trainer! I've been experimenting with barefoot shoes/barefoot training on and off over the years and really got into it over the past 2 years. I've really come to see that my movement patterns, athleticism, and awareness of foot-to-ground have all been impacted strongly. After training in barefoot shoes for a while, it's so hard to switch back into regular cushy training shoes. I feel more connected and able to move naturally when I'm training in minimal footwear. It's definitely made me become aware of how dynamic our feet are and how they have the ability to move in so many planes of motion, and how important it is to keep them strong and healthy. Thanks for the opportunity guys!
Don’t own a pair yet but think the Forza Trainers by Zero would be an awesome first pair for me.
Very thankful to you both, you’ve helped so much with my training, big inspirations 🙏🏼 Please keep at it! Much love ✌🏼
Xero is a really solid brand! I've tried their sandals, shoes (the Prio, Oswego and Alston) and they really let your feet do it's natural thing. They're mad comfy, you're making a good choice!
I use the Xero street runners($120) to run urban terrain, do handyman jobs , driveway car repair in the same pair of shoes. I've worn them everyday for a year now, they are starting to look old but not a single hole or tear anywhere, not even the outside after dragging it on concrete. The sole just started to wear thin in the front. It has the most dense tread I've ever seen but still flexible. Have the $89 pair too that I'm going to give a try once these are completely shot. A few times while walking on concrete or pavers for days at a time on vacation I put a second pair of insoles in and it was a great fix. Also, I used the Altra Trail Runners for Lawn Care , they were very comfortable but wore out pretty fast in that daily usage environment, they also did not have much ground feel due to the huge soles and the treads wore out before my eyes. I would stay away from them if you expect to be on concrete every now and then. I'm trying out the Xero trail runners this lawn season. I put 2 insoles in and so far I can tell they are much more durable and way more responsive to the ground than the Altras. The dense tread feels more like a baseball cleat but the double insoles make it work. Thanks for the videos!
I love the work you guys do! Thanks for the content.
I switched to zero drop shoes about 6 years ago -- Altra's. I love the Escalante Racer's for working out and the Lone Peak's for hikes. Also own some Torin's for kicking around in. Recently got some Xero's and wear them all the time now and really like the way they look. Gonna probably try some Vivo's and/or Lems.
I was recently introduced to minimalist shoes by my boyfriend and watched some of your videos to understand what he's been raving about! I really want to try out a pair myself but they're just over my budget as a student. I'd love to replace my worn out gym sneakers with the Xero Forzas -- that would motivate me to keep working out my body as I continue my studies! Strong body, strong mind.
Peace and love! I appreciate the energy you both have invested to support yourself and provide value to others!
I completed a long phase of recovery from a condition with one of my feet and am now in position to grow towards optimizing. Appreciating my body, my feet, and my relationship to them is something I’ve become really grateful for and would love to receive the blessing of gifted shoes! 😊❤️🙏
GREAT REVIEW VID. THANKS! ps I've been wearing the LEMS chukkas and I do love the wide toe box. Won't ever buy another shoe unless it has that wide toe box. pps.. I'm loving your channel!
The algorithms! Been following you guys for a while but I just got introduced to Xero Shoes over the last few days and - here yall are. 😂
Thanks for all the info, I value the experience and perspective of you two trying to put good out into the world! 🤙🏼
How do you like your new shoes? I have Vivo's and I'm ready to try a different brand.
I love my vibrams. They were my first minimal shoe and I still train and run with them to this day. I do also have Lems, a couple of Xero Shoes, and Earthrunners. I like the vibrams the most because of how soft and flexible they are and how they hug my feet all around. My first Xeroshoes and my Earthrunners put too much strain on my achilles. I’ve recently ordered some vivo barefoot shoes and can’t wait to try them. Since they aren’t as strange looking as the vibrams I’m hoping I’ll be able to use them for work.
Great informative video guys! 5-year Merrell/Xero/Vivo rocker here. Found FiveFingers to be great for auquatic activities- transitions from swimming to rocky wading to dirt/gravel/twigs perfectly(no space to retain "slosh"), just not(ever) for public use. Standard model doesn't grip concrete very well for garage gym training, but otherwise comfortable, lightweight footwear. Just certainly NOT for work, school, casual... don't even think about dates! LOL! Thanks!
Very informative video, I appreciate it guys!
The Vivo ones look fab. Great video, guys. Thanks for your research and info.
Hi guys! You should get an award for this video, and another one for all of your content! You bring so much of knowledge, joy and good vibes with it. Good job! And as for this particular video, I am looking for wide barefoot casual shoe, but with a little more of cushioning. I walk a lot on hard surfaces like concrete and sidewalks while commuting. Can you recommend smth? Tahnks and greetings from Poland, EU, Chris.
Great video. Quality information. I’m a runner and Xero is my go to, but Merrell and Joomra also work really well. Joomra has a nice wide toe box and is very inexpensive.
Thanks for posting!
I’ll have to check them out
iThank you for sharing this. did a whole 1 yr transition into barefoot shoes and that wasnt even enough...people need to know transition and knowing what works for you is key. I used to own vibram 5 fingers, 2 of em, i used them everywhere and even go trekking in them. My first climb was hell, especially going down when its a rocky terrain, but i felt human...thats the upside. downside is you look weird. but if you dont care for such things... vibrams are fun
Xero forza 11 Size would be my go! I'm starting with barefoot shoes and those ones looks great! Thanks a lot for your content guys! big hug from Spain
I've been wondering what shoes that both of you wear since I just started subscribe strength side last week. This is totally new for me! Btw, thank you for a very good explanation and review of the barefoot shoes 😄
Great video guys! Thx for inspiration
Thanks for the honorable mentions. I've come to realize that I love the zero drop and the wide toe box for minimalist shoes, but I cannot mentally stand the constant input of the ground. At home, I go barefoot, in the house, on the grass, on the driveway etc, its fine because I can always move to another surface if another, if the input from one is getting too much. But I know that I could not at work, so the two that you mentioned with more cushion sounds like a great idea.
Can vouch for the Merrill‘s, been wearing them for three years and the toebox ends up being just fine for my wide feet 🤘🤘 Thank you fellas for spreading the good word
Thanks guys, very good review. I like your suggestions... I fell in love with the Merrell Vapor Glove... and I think I'm going to keep wearing them until I find something that beats them (for me).
Ny favorite (and thus far only barefioot minimalist shoe) is the Vibram Fivefingers: my reason is that several years ago, while wearing a pair hiking up a local "mountain", training to return at age 72 to trek in the Himalayan foothills of Annapurna, I broke one of my toes. My theory is that the separation of the toes provided by the Vibram Fivefingers, though it may have contributed to causing the event, helped limit the breakage by not dragging other toes along with it into the damage arena. Nonetheless, I'd love to win the Zero Forza Trainer, (size 12.5 wide in Altra Lone Peak6 running shoe--don't know my size in Zero)--only that I need plenty of toe space to accomodate the 5 (or is was 6?) barefoot toe breakages.over the years.
Thanks for all the great videos! Solid knowledge and good entertainment. I was confused for a while, but eventually figured out that there are two of you.
Love this video! Started wearing barefoot shoes since a few years and at first felt a bit strange and guessed people were looking at my feet more cause I was still getting used to it and had a funny walk in the beginning 😂 but better now. Littt 🔥
First off, love the channel and the content! I just got into wearing barefoot shoes in the last year and I love the Lems Primal Zen. I've seen you wearing those in a few videos. I also just picked up a pair of Splay Freestyles. Ya'll should check out Splay if you haven't heard of them, their shoes are very affordable and have probably the widest toe box of any barefoot brand.
Secondly, I would love to win those Forza Trainers. I love going to the gym and I need a barefoot trainer to replace my reebok gym shoes.
Anyways, keep up the great videos and love for movement. Very inspirational!
I grew up in Colorado Springs. The scenery in some of your vids reminded me so much of home, I was sure it had to be Colorado. I started with Vibrams, and yeah, I felt goofy and got a few not-so-great comments at the gym so they didn't stay long. I've worn Feiyues and Merrells over the past few years. I'm looking for something new and might try out some Xeros as I couldn't get the sizing of Vivobarefoots just right, plus I like the fact they're Vegan. Lems are new to me, I'll have to check them out next time I'm back home. Thanks for the informative vid, guys.
Nice video, thanks! I have four different Xero shoes. I like them. Seems like a good company. I didn’t know they don’t look cool until you guys told me. But I still like them. Everyone asks about my shoes.
I've been getting a lot of sponsored ads from Feiyue Shoes so this might be a signal 😅. Keep the good work! I really would like to try them on for daily use. My job required a lot of walking so this would fit perfectly.
Ive worn lems (the same black ones in the video) for over a year now and my feet are definately different now. I cant wear alot of regular shoes anymore and the minimal shoe helps me be on my feet for an 8hr shift and be ok. Im 250lbs and they still work for me 👍🏿
Love my earth runners, they might look a bit different but they are amazing for anything I've tried them in. In and out of water for stream crossings during hikes is one of the ways they really shine. I definitely feel a bit out of style in public but the grounding aspect is a nice bonus and they are so comfortable and primal. I'm all about that! I wear vivo geo pros if I need close toed shoes for something like horseback riding or just because it's too cold. I really like the look of the lems for "public" use since they look so typical, I'll have to check them out. I'm barefoot most of the time but it's nice to not feel so out of place with style when you're at the store lol. Great video guys, maybe we'll normalize minimalist shoes and we won't have that style difference soon! :p Keep being awesome primal meat eating werewolves! lol
Thanks for sharing. Most interesting. On the Vibram Five Fingers, I bought a pair for my son when he was 16. He loves minimalist shoes.
What happened was that because it was so natural and minimal, his feet grew strength in his arch through wearing them outside school shoe such that his flat foot that he had since birth, disappeared!! It's was an amazing result of about a year's wearing.
I need this Feijue pair… I’ll finally look like a Berliner at my Madrid’s gym! Also I need one of your t-Shirts guys, they look awesome. Cheers for all what you doing
Been trying to do research on these types of shoes. I’ve been rocking some Feiyues for 6 months now but wanted to branch out to some shoes with a wider toe box. Appreciate the video and the research. Cheers
Hey guys ! I haven't tried barefoot shoes yet but I enjoy all the philosophy which is yours threw the videos you make, I do crossfit 4 times a week and I think I am ready to start barefoot now :D Definitely Xero shoes. Matthieu, from France, cheers !
Whats up team StrengthSide! Gotta say that I love the Feiyue's, been training in them (or barefoot) since I found your channel a few years back. I tend to wear them to any physical activity I plan on getting into. If I could pick any shoe though, I would have to say the Vivos. I have been eye balling their boot style shoes for quite sometime now. For the giveaway those white Xero's are looking super sharp. I like a little bit of statement when its time to get the work done.
Thanks to you guys and the Bioneer I decided to try barefoot shoes as part of my pursuit to become a healthier and more physically functional human. I ordered some vivo's and from the moment I put them on I knew I would never go back to non-minimalist shoes. That was before I was even trying to learn parkour movements, just walking and jogging then. The first jog I wore them on was the first time I was able to run 5k without stopping to walk. I wore that pair until they had 4 holes in the soles. They were my favorite shoes I've ever worn, except maybe for the second pair of vivo that I'm wearing now. I don't have Instagram for the giveaway, but I'm interested to maybe try the xero brand at some point. Wide toe box is something I won't compromise on now. Zero drop and simple tread pattern are also pretty important to me. I really like a very minimal sole thickness, but I might would try something slightly thicker if the rest of the shoe is on point. Anyway, thank you guys for sharing your experience with various brands and encouraging people to try barefoot style shoes. It has been a wonderful change for me!
You set a great example for guys and I follow you. I'm a nature painter of waterfalls and brooks and oceans, to help promote preservation of these exceptional elements we depend on. I'm on my first barefoot shoe from a running store in Brevard,NC near Lake Glenville I live on. I'll hike to these waterfalls on trails and cross boulders and want to feel strong and natural in my searches. Setting a good example as a man physically and expressing emotions,
is part of my mojo. Pitch in and get something done to better ourselves. Barefoot helps you feel the earth.
I really like the vibram five finger shoes. Started wearing them around 2010. Wore them to water parks, canoeing and running around doing errands. Yes, I got some stares. But they are comfortable!
The Feiyue, please!! I gotta say that last year I saw you wearing Feiyue in one of your videos and I got curious ,so I went ahead and bought a pair on Amazon just to see. As you guys said they are cheap and look great. I ended up loving them for stretching and working out at home thanks to you!
Hi there guys. First of all thanks for the content you are posting. Thanks to your channel I made my own mornigng mobility routine that works for me as charm bringing huege relief for my back pain considerd sitting job! I'm running using vibram fivefingers and what is really important when you starting to use those (and for that matter any minimalistic shoes) is that transition time is something that you should not omit and is great that you pointed that out! With 5fingers there is no such problem as to narrow toes space and each finger can work separately of others so that is great advantage in my opinion. What is even more important since I started to run in those minimalistic shoes I have never had any running contusion ever since (what happened before in other shoes). What I susspect they somehow influence your motorics and make you run more secure and stable probably by angaging more muscles and increasing movement balance (that probably goes with any of zero shoes). I would like to go into give away with forzas, but the oter ones are also my size :) the reason is that I can use them with traditional socks at last :) greetings guys!
I just bought a pair off Amazon to start my process I’m excited !!!
Innov8 use to be a great minimalist shoe brand. They lost there way over the years and mostly went the high stack route but kept a few good ones like the x talon series, which are my favourite for running when its slippery. x talon 195 and f lite 195 for me are great. Like you mentioned in the video, people thought they could transition to barefoot/minimalist shoes straight away, got injured, and blamed the shoes. after a lifetime of your feet being babied by “conventional “ runners, its completely normal to take 6months to a year to transition. Great summary video guys and yes the Vivos are so expensive, but all shoes are in Australia