10 Best Vivobarefoot Running Shoes Tested
If you are looking to transition into barefoot-style running, Vivobarefoot is the brand to look at. The 10 Best Vivibarefoot running shoes offer just enough to allow you to feel natural without completely damaging your feet. You have protection, durability, stability all while feeling natural as you can in a shoe.
Follow through the guide and check out the FAQs if you have any questions and check out our Criteria section as well. All this is shared so you can find the best Vivibarefoot running shoe for you. Making sure you know what you are putting your foot into will help you make a more educated decision.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
For runners, comfort is one of the most important foundations of a running shoe. Part of the allure of Vivobarefoot running shoes is the barefoot running feel they provide. So we focused a lot on this factor in our Vivobarefoot review.
Some of the shoes on our list offer things like removable insoles or breathable mesh layers. You’ll want to be sure the shoes you’re wearing are comfortable or you’ll risk blisters, hotspots, and even sprains which will definitely put a kink in your regular running routine.
Barefoot running will help you develop a more natural gait and it will strengthen your foot muscles and tendons, just remember that this means it will ask a lot more from your legs and feet than your standard, cushiony running shoe. Vivobarefoot footwear has been called the closest thing you can get to being barefoot. That’s because it really is.
There is not very much standing in between your foot and the ground, which will make you use muscles that you never thought you had. It’s a process, so give yourself time, expect it, and go with shorter outings until you get used to it.
Stability
For runners, comfort is one of the most important foundations of a running shoe. Part of the allure of Vivobarefoot running shoes is the barefoot running feel they provide. Some of the shoes on our list offer things like removable insoles or breathable mesh layers.
You’ll want to be sure the shoes you’re wearing are comfortable or you’ll risk blisters, hotspots, and even sprains which will definitely put a kink in your regular running routine. Make sure that while you are making the transition, you are staying aware of how your foot is striking the ground. While you may be used to a heel strike, while barefoot running promotes a forefoot strike.
As you make the transition, don’t place too much strain on your Achilles, which will start to work more as you change your natural stride. This is why the idea of starting slow and maintaining shorter distances can’t be emphasized enough.
Durability
If you want your shoes to last more than just a few months you need a pair that is durable and will stand up to your regular running routine. Depending on what the shoes are made for, some will hold up better when facing the outdoors.
Others are made with track running in mind and won’t perform the same under more intense conditions. You’ll want something that matches your expectations and that you can easily care for; good shoe upkeep can greatly extend the life of your shoes too!
Vivobarefoot shoes put plenty of care and consideration into the materials they use for their footwear, often preferring vegan materials. Better quality materials can mean a more durable and comfortable shoe, but they can also mean a higher-cost shoe.
Terrain
It’s crucial to always listen to user feedback in regards to what their experiences have been with running shoe models across different terrain and running surfaces. This is because trying a shoe on in a department store or running shop will never give you a sense of how that running shoe will handle your favorite outdoor trail or the wet sidewalks of your local neighborhood. It’s only after the running shoes see several real-world miles that one can make a determination.
This is why we listened to what runners had to say about the performance of the brand and we marked which models are perfect for outdoor trail running, and which are best for city and treadmill running. Making an educated selection before you buy will ensure that you get the running shoe that you were looking for.
Since most Vivobarefoot models fit about the same in terms of how they will feel on your feet and how they will strike the ground, the most important thing to keep in mind when making your selection is your running surface. Our buying guide is sure to list which models are intended for concrete, which are intended for trails, and which give you a nice mixture of gym workout and non-technical trail ability.
Remember to not make the mistake of choosing a “workhorse” running shoe that you use for all terrain, all the time. This will rapidly wear the shoe and could cause injury. Most seasoned runners keep a solid rotation of running shoes active at all times.
10 Best Vivobarefoot Running Shoes
1. SG Lightweight Trail
SG Lightweight Trail running shoes are as minimalist as you’re going to get and they are the first on our Vivobarefoot review list. Like adding a tire tread to the bottom of your foot, you'll get all the natural feel you are looking for without actually feeling the mud between your toes.
Read moreComfort
Vivibarefoot isn't made with tons of cushioning, but neither are your feet. SG Light Weight is made to mimic your barefoot running style while offering just enough tread and support to absorb mild pressures from running.
Although they don’t have a rock plate in them either, they still do a great job of transitioning to trails and protecting against rocks and debris. This is pretty much what they are designed for, no one wants to run on rocks barefoot, but if you wanna get close these are the pick.
Durability
Although minimal, what these Vivo Barefoot running shoes do have is durability. The outer sole does a great job of holding up and we didn't come across any major durability issues in our research. These are light and functional and tend to last well past most trail running shoe designs.
Terrain
SG Light Weight trail shoes were made for the terrain. The outer soul sticks and climbs with little effort and they feel secure while allowing your feet to feel the road when it's wet, rocky, or other. We’d say they offer the best traction on the 10 Best Vivibarefoot Running shoe guide.
2. Primus FG Trail
Light and super grippy, Primus FG Trail comes with some added protection for ankles. These do a great job in assisting your gait and won’t let you down if you want to take them for longer runs. They still don’t offer a rock plate, but the Vivo Outer soles seem to be doing just fine without them.
Read moreComfort
These feel good on the feet because they let you feel your feet. These are minimalist so none of that fancy padding and added support. However, these do add an extra more collar than the others for some stronger upper support for those that need it. This aids those that tend to ankle roll, making these a perfect option for those transitioning into barefoot-style running.
The minimalist design of the Primus FG Trail is to guide the foot and remind it how it is supposed to move. Most shoes support, comfort and work with the foot, these are like a maestro of foot correction. Once you get through the transition, your whole body is going to feel the difference.
Durability
With Vivobarefoot, durability is a strong point. As a trail shoe that offers minimal of everything, what they do offer has to be strong. Primus FG Trail works on trails and road without wearing down like some high-speed rubbers.
Terrain
As we mentioned these train your feet. That means that no matter what type of terrain you choose they are going to give you just what you need to make it through without with a little added stability. Vivo Barefoot running shoes have solid rubber soles that have been put to the test and the Primus does a great job of sharing that experience.
3. Motus
The Vivobarefoot Motus is the perfect option for runners looking for a multi-functional running shoes. They are perfect easy trail runs, road running, short and long-distance running, and many other athletic activities. If you are looking for any easy transition use, this is the perfect option for you.
Read moreComfort/Stability
These lightweight and breathable shoes are a perfect option for versatile athletes and runners looking for a shoe that will fit the needs of all of their athletic activities--without having to sacrifice their comfort levels. The Motus is great for individuals looking for minimalistic shoes without any unnecessary cushioning. If you like the feel of the road and enjoy all of the advantages of barefoot running, this shoe will provide you with adequate protection without sacrificing those attributes you enjoy.
Durability/Quality
The shoes are known to be highly durable and long-lasting. Their outsole incorporates the PRO5 design and is made of a highly durable rubber compound. This provides the shoe with optimal protection from wear and tear and makes them tough enough to use on trails, where the shoe needs additional protection.
Value/Cost
These shoes come at a higher cost, but Vivobarefoot provides a money back guarantee if they do not fit your needs. Although the price is high, if you are looking for a durable and multi-functional shoe, you will find them well worth their price in the long run.
4. Trail Freak
The Vivobarefoot Trail Freaks are very modern looking running shoes. They are meant for running on the roughest forms of terrain. The design and color choice is one of the prettiest that you could find on any running shoes.
Read moreComfort/Stability
They will provide you with great comfort and won`t create any hotspots that could annoy you on your run. The stability that they provide is very good, especially because of the outsole that provides you with great traction.
Durability/Quality
They are very durable running shoes and will definitely last you for a long time and many miles. The quality of the shoes is good, all materials are good quality and they won't tear anytime soon.
Cost/Value
These are one of those running shoes that fall into category best value for money because of their affordable price, modern design, high breathability and of course because of high-quality materials.
5. Stealth II
The Vivobarefoot Stealth 2 running shoes are a modern, sleek looking running shoe. They feature only black color with some hints of light brown, although it presents very well. They look amazing, people may not realize that they are a shoe meant for running because of their beautiful design. They feature Dri-Lex performance lining that will help keep your feet dry, and it also increases the overall comfort of the shoes.
Read moreComfort/Stability
They are very comfortable running shoes. Dri-Lex performance lining grips gently around your feet to keep them in place while you are running. They also offer great stability because of their outsole which gives you great traction as well.
Durability/Quality
They are durable running shoes, so you won`t have to worry that you would need to buy a new pair every six months. Despite the materials being lightweight, the quality of them is top notch.
Value/Price
Like with pretty much any model of Vivobarefoot running shoes, Vivobarefoot Stealth II is definitely worth looking into, considering you do so with their specific features in mind. This is a shoe that does have pros as well as cons, as most do. So consider every aspect.
6. Ultra 3
The Vivobarefoot Ultras are running shoes are meant for running in very wet and hot environments. They are made of synthetic and fabric which means that these running shoes are vegan-friendly. They also feature a rubber outsole which will enable increased grip while you run.
Read moreComfort/Stability
They offer great comfort considering that they are made only out of synthetic materials. Stability is also amazing, so there is only a small chance that you would lose your footing while running.
Durability/Quality
They are one of the more durable running shoes that you can buy because there is pretty much nothing that can get torn apart; they are seamless. The quality of materials is great, and the rubber outsole will last for miles and miles on end.
Value/Cost
They will last you a very long time, are durable and because they provide you with great breathability are worth picking up if you need a shoe like these. You will hardly find any similar running shoe like this on the market.
7. Primus Lite
The Primus Lite shoes are a comfortable and durable option that comes with a sleek design and give you all of the advantages of barefoot running.
Read moreComfort/Stability
These Vivo Barefoot running shoes are lightweight, zero drop shoes that provide adequate comfort and adapt to your foot's natural shape and stride. They can be worn with or without socks and provide you with all the benefits of barefoot running--but with the added protection of the shoe rubber outsole.
Durability/Quality
These shoes have sufficient tread for road running and are highly durable when used on the road only.
Cost/Value
These are far from the cheapest barefoot-style running shoes and are also far from the most resilient or effective out of Vivobarefoot's catalog. However, the asking price is still very reasonable when considering how effective these shoes still are.
8. Primus Trek
These are actually designed for walking not running but are highly reviewed for being comfortable, breathable, and water-resistant. They have a padded tongue and collar which is unique for most products in this shoe segment and are good for wide feet.
Read moreComfort
These have more padding than a lot of other similar shoes, especially in the collar and tongue.
Stability
These are a little wider than other options on the list giving the user a solid base to operate from.
Durability
Users found these to be longer lasting than similar lightweight running sneakers.
Terrain
Since they're designed for walking the tread isn't as aggressive as options designed for running but they still grip the trail well.
9. Primus Lux WP Leather
For those of you who want to add some flair to their running attire but want to retain a minimalist, barefoot feel, the Vivobarefoot Lux WP Leather is a fantastic choice. These shoes can easily fit in casual and professional environments.
Read moreComfort/Stability
The Primus Lux is a premium everyday shoe that can be worn for both work and play. It is wide, thin and flexible, providing that "barefoot" feeling while giving adequate protection to your feet during your day-to-day activities.
Durability/Quality
The leather upper and synthetic sole make this a sturdy shoe that becomes even comfier over time. Some users have said that, in a pinch, these shoes can even be used for running or cross-training.
Value/Cost
These are on the pricier side, but their premium leather construction and stylish versatility will deliver you your money's worth as they can be worn for both work and play.
10. Magna Trail Nylon
The last but not the least on our Vivobarefoot review list are Magna Trail Nylon shoes. These are designed for hiking but runners looking for a warmer and more durable option for fall and winter trail running will enjoy these. They have a thermally insulated sock-liner and no-sew construction to hold in the warmth. The PRO5 outsole is thin but extremely tough and durable.
Read moreComfort
The insulated sock-liner and no-sew construction give these a coy in-shoe feel.
Stability
Since they're designed for hiking they have a bit wider platform than most other products on this list.
Durability
Despite being lightweight and minimalist these have proven to be long-lasting.
Terrain
They have an aggressive tread pattern that will help you maintain traction on most surfaces.
Sources
- , Zen Habits, Website
- , Runner’s World, Article
- , Harvard University, Website
- , Every Day, Every Surface: Vivobarefoot Magna Trail FG Shoe Review Every Day, Every Surface: Vivobarefoot Magna Trail FG Shoe Review, Website
