Massive Vibram FiveFingers Discounts

Vibram FiveFingers – Sale now on!

We’ve just received our Autumn/Winter delivery of Vibram FiveFingers and are celebrating the release of the brand-new Trek Ascent Insulated. But there is one problem… We’ve got so many Vibrams that we can’t fit them on our shelves!

So we’re having an impromptu sale with some MASSIVE savings to be had.

CLICK EACH PRODUCT NAME TO TAKE YOU TO THE PRODUCT.

Here’s the list:

Men’s Vibram FiveFingers Sale

KSO Evo (road, gym, leisure) SAVE 22%

Bikila Evo (road, gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 28%

EL-X (road, gym, cheapest!) SAVE 20%

Spyridon MR (trail, off-road, mud obstacle, walking) SAVE 24%

KMD Sport LS (gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 26%

Trek Ascent (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 23%

Trek Ascent LR (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 21%

KMD Evo (parkour, gym, walking, leisure) SAVE 28%

CVT Hemp (leisure, travel) SAVE 26%

 

Women’s Vibram FiveFingers Sale

KSO Evo (road, gym, leisure) SAVE 22%

Bikila Evo (road, gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 28%

Alitza Loop (fitness classes, gym, leisure, travel) SAVE 20%

Vi-B (fitness classes, gym, leisure, travel) SAVE 27%

Spyridon MR (trail, off-road, mud obstacle, walking) SAVE 24%

KMD Sport LS (gym, leisure, walking) SAVE 26%

Trek Ascent (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 23%

Trek Ascent LR (trail, off-road, walking, mud obstacle, hiking) SAVE 21%

 

Rock-Bottom Clearance Vibram FiveFingers

Once these are gone, they’re gone forever! 

Trek Sport Sandal (Men’s sizes remaining) SAVE 39%

Seeya LS / LS Night (Men’s and Women’s) SAVE 42%

CVT LS (Men’s and Women’s) SAVE 45%

Lontra (Women’s winter shoe, size 37. Last pair) SAVE 61%

 

Vibram Logo

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #2

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #2

For many, 2016 may not look like the most exciting year in the brand’s history. Celebrating their 10th Anniversary, Vibram have re-released the original Classic and the KSO (see our Sneak Peak #1 here) for a limited period, but haven’t gone guns-blazing on as many other ‘new’ releases as they have done in the past.

This, it can be argued, is largely down to the fact that they have ‘nailed’ it with many of their products. Looking at the current catalogue, the KSO Evo is impeccable, the EL-X serves as a fantastic entry-level shoe, the Trek Ascent is a worthy successor to the Trek Sport, and the ladies are spoilt with the Alitza Loop and the Vi-B.

Nevertheless, there are still some exciting new additions, as we document below. The biggest perk is that the pricing has changed… FOR THE BETTER!

At Feetus, we also think there are still some unexploited areas where Vibram could make a difference, and we’ll discuss that at the end of this article.

Without further ado, we present to you the new Vibram FiveFingers for 2016:Screenshot 2015-08-18 13.19.20

Bikila Evo 2: New for 2016

The original Bikila, named after the famous barefoot Olympic runner Adebe Bikila, was released in 2010. Designed mainly for road use, the Bikila was a huge success and was soon followed by the Bikila LS (the same shoe, but with a lace system). In 2014, the shoe ‘evolved’ in to the Bikila Evo to massive acclaim, and 2016 sees the release of the Bikila Evo 2.

Bikila Evo 2: Vibram Blurb

Redesigned with a softer upper and perforated to maximise breathability, the Bikila EVO 2 is now even more comfortable. This is an ideal running shoe for those making the transition from traditional to minimalist shoe. The thinner sole lets you feel your run, connecting you to the true barefoot running experience.

Bikila Evo 2: SpecificationBIKILA EVO 2

  • WEIGHT: M43= 4.80oz / W38= 3.74oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm Anti-Microbial Drilex Sockliner //
  • MIDSOLE: 4mm EVA // RUBBER: 2.5mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester Lycra Stretch Mesh + Polyester Microfiber
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Bikila Evo 2: Feetus’ Verdict

If the success of its predecessors is anything to go by, the Bikila Evo 2 is destined to be a massive hit. With a gorgeous lineup of colours to choose from, the Bikila Evo 2 is going to be hard to resist.

Spyridon MR Elite: New for 2016

The growth in muddy obstacle events worldwide has opened up a niche in the shoe market. Many participants already use Vibram FiveFingers for their stability, glove-like fit, and ability to keep the shoes on their feet (while other competitors lose their shoes in the mud!).

In 2016, Vibram FiveFingers introduce the Spyridon MR Elite. Built on the same MEGAGRIP sole as the Spyridon MR, the Elite features unique touches making it the perfect choice for mud running:Vibram fiveFingers Spyridon MR Elite from Feetus.co.uk

  • Velcro cuff to keep mud out and add ankle protection
  • Instep brace to secure the foot (and prevent losing your shoe in the mud!)
  • Water resistant fabric helps repel water whilst keeping the shoe breathable

Spyridon MR Elite: Vibram Blurb

A purpose-built shoe designed specifically for diehard mud-runners, the Spyridon MR Elite is why Vibram was named the Official Footwear Sponsor of the 2015 Warrior Dash. The in-step brace provides a confident “lock” for stability even when the shoe is wet, while the high hook-and-loop cuff keeps mud out and protects the ankle. A totally washable shoe, the water-resistant finish makes the Spyridon MR Elite a relentless competitor in all conditions.

Spyridon MR Elite: Specification

  • WEIGHT: M43= 7.54oz W38= 5.49oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial DrilexBikila Evo 2 - Vibram FiveFingers at Feetus.co.uk
  • Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 5mm +
  • 3D Cocoon Mesh
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Injection PU Brace + Polyester with
  • Water Repellent Treatment
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Spyridon MR Elite: Feetus’ Verdict

Creating a shoe solely for the purpose of muddy obstacle events is a brave move from Vibram FiveFingers. Is there a ‘die-hard mud-running minimalist’ market that are willing to shed money on another pair of Vibrams just for their muddy races? Probably not, but on inspection, we felt that the Spyridon MR Elite is more than just a mud runner shoe. It is ideal for the British weather, especially during the wetter months. This shoe will keep you running when the weather turns bad!

Trek Ascent Insulated: New for late-2015

Trek Ascent Insulated
Trek Ascent Insulated

Due for release in Autumn/Winter 2015, we can’t wait for the Trek Ascent Insulated. On test, these are perhaps the most comfortable offering from Vibram FiveFingers to date! Designed to be used when the temperature is cooler, here we have a shoe that features full wool lining, Cordura water resistant outer fabric, an ankle cuff for extra warmth, plus Vibram’s patented ICETREK rubber compound sole (as seen on the Bikila Evo WP) for grip and control on outdoor surfaces.

Trek Ascent Insulated: Vibram Blurb

Ideal for those who don’t slow down as the weather gets cooler, the Trek Ascent Insulated keeps feet toasty while battling the elements. Engineered with an ICETREK outsole, this dynamo provides unparalleled grip and balance on icy cold surfaces

Trek Ascent Insulated: Specification

  • WEIGHT: M43= 7.80oz W38= 6.20oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 4mm Polyurethane + Wool Sockliner //
  • MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 4mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: WR Cordura™ + Polyester + Wool
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Trek Ascent Insulated: Feetus’ Verdict

The Trek Ascent Insulated looks like a moon boot prototype from before space travel was even possible! BUT… We love it. It could be a Marmite shoe: You’re either going to love the look, or hate it. We fall in to the latter category. The Trek Ascent Insulated has a lot of character; the sole is incredible, and the choice of materials for the upper and inner will ensure your feet will stay toasty.

Vi-S: New for 2016

Vi-S from Vibram Fivefingers - Available at Feetus.co.uk
Vibram’s new Vi-S

Open-top FiveFingers have always proved remarkably popular with ladies (maybe that’s why we’re seeing a re-release of the Classic too?). Offering a little elegance, simplicity and ease of getting on and off, the Vi-S is another step in the minimalist direction, and a nice alternative to the existing Vi-B and Alitza Loop styles.

Vi-S: Vibram Blurb

An elegant, form-fitting design, the Vi-S is one part graceful fashion sandal, one part hardworking KSO EVO. A flexible yet high-traction sole makes the demands of everyday life feel effortless. Delicate lace fabric adds a sensual touch that is deceivingly tough, like you. offered for women only

Vi-S: Specification

  • WEIGHT: W38= 3.17oz
  • SOLE SPEC: INSOLE: 2mm EVA + Anti-Microbial Drilex
  • Sockliner // MIDSOLE: N/A // RUBBER: 3.5mm
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Polyester
  • VEGAN // Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

Your Thoughts

Later this week we’ll be previewing the rest of the styles that will be available from Vibram FiveFingers, but in the meantime, we’d love to get your thoughts on the new stuff!

So, after seeing the new styles on offer from Vibram FiveFingers, what do you think? Are you excited or underwhelmed? Which new style is your favourite, the Bikila Evo 2 or the Spyridon MR Elite; the Vi-S or the Trek Ascent Insulated? Leave a comment below. 

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #1: Nostalgia

2016 Vibram FiveFingers Sneak Peak #1

Vibram FiveFingers are celebrating their 10th Birthday next year, and as 2016 will be here before we know it, we’re excited (already) about the new Vibrams. If you don’t like surprises, don’t read on!

Nostalgia

For a company that’s always been incredibly visionary and forward-focused, it may seem counter-intuitive to celebrate something as nostalgic as a 10-year anniversary. But 2016 is more than a milestone for Vibram FiveFingers. It’s validation. It is living proof that a great idea can and will change how people live and play, every single day.

And we’re proud to unveil two old favourites that are being re-released for a limited period only.

 

The Classic

Vibram FiveFingers Classic
An Instant Classic!

First released in the USA back in 2006, the Classic was originally called the “Vibram FiveFingers” shoe. The Classic was made famous by “Barefoot Ted” McDonald (now creator of Luna Sandals) as he ran the Boston Marathon with an impressive 3:20:16 time.

We get emails from customers all the time asking “Where’s the Classic? …it was my favourite shoe!”, so here at Feetus, we’re over the moon we can finally satisfy the die-hard Classic fans. We just need to be patient until March 2016.

What Vibram say about the Classic:

From day one, the FiveFingers Classic has drawn the attention of the press and active outdoor athletes alike. Our patented original takes a minimalist approach to barefooting with a thin, abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide fabric that sits low on the foot for comfort and quick drying.

Non-marking, razor-siped Vibram XS Trek performance rubber soles help protect your feet and provide a sure grip over a variety of terrain.

The KSO

In 2008 Vibram FiveFingers unveiled the ‘shoe’ that really changed everything and launched ‘barefoot running’ to new heights. For many of us, the KSO was our first pair of Vibrams. KSO stands for “Keep Stuff Out”. The shoe was so popular (and is still Vibram’s biggest-seller to date) that it still exists in its evolved form today: The KSO Evo.

Vibram FiveFingers KSO
“Keeping Stuff Out” for 2016

What Vibram say about the KSO:

When you’re scrambling up a rocky bluff or bounding along a riverbank, the last thing you want is gravel and grit seeping into your Vibram FiveFingers. The KSO is an all-new design with thin, abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide and breathable stretch mesh that wraps your entire forefoot to keep grit out. A single hook-and-loop closure helps secure the fit. Non-marking Vibram TC1 performance rubber sole ensure excellent grip, whatever your activity.

 

The Classic and the KSO are ‘10th Anniversary Re-Introduced Products’ with limited numbers being produced. Once they go, they will be gone. If you’d like to reserve a pair, please let us know.

Available in black only, for both men and women.

Your Thoughts

Of course – These aren’t the only ‘new’ released for 2016, and we’ll be releasing further details of the other SS16 Vibram Fivefingers later in the week, including another ‘evolution’ of a popular style, and a shoe that’s designed especially for muddy obstacle events! READ MORE ABOUT THIS HERE.

In the meantime, we’d love to hear what you think about the re-release of the Classic and the KSO. Leave a comment below!

Riding the TransAndalus and TransMurciana for Cleveland Mountain Rescue (Feetus, Lee Firman)

Feetus Donates £210 to Cleveland Mountain Rescue Charity

Last month, Feetus company owner Lee Firman embarked on a solo, unsupported, mountain bike trip through the southern sierras of Andalusia, Spain.

He covered in excess of 900km and 60,000’ elevation over 7 days of cycling in order to raise money for our local charity, Cleveland Mountain Rescue, who celebrate their 50th year in operation this year.

 “It was tougher than I had expected. Many of the climbs, especially in the Alpujarras, were very humbling. I took too many wrong turns, suffered too many flat tyres, but it was a priceless experience. I would recommend all cycling / outdoor enthusiasts to check out the TransAndalus mountain bike trails. Thanks also to everyone that wished me luck and sponsored me, and for those that participated in the little Facebook competitions during the ride”.

With a stripped-down kit list, Lee still swore by the Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo for leisure use, Injinji toe socks whilst cycling, and MuleBar for nutrition.

Lee will post a full review of his trip on his personal blog in the coming weeks: www.outdoorfirmo.com.

TransAndalus: Panorama

Cleveland-Mountain-Rescue-Logo

A BIG Bike Ride to Support Cleveland Mountain Rescue

Between 5 – 12 June, we’re going to donate 5% of money received on ALL ORDERS to Cleveland Mountain Rescue.

Supporting Outdoor Enthusiasts

Feetus HQ is sandwiched between the North Sea and the beautiful North York Moors in Middlesbrough, Cleveland. We’re lucky to have big hills, vast open spaces, and sandy beaches on our doorstep, so it seems only right that we support a local charity that supports outdoor enthusiasts like ourselves.

TransAndalus, TransMurciana, Hardmoors Trail Marathon

During this 8-day period, Feetus company owner Lee Firman is embarking on a solo bikepacking adventure through Southern Spain. Riding from Malaga to Murcia via the TransAndalus and TransMurciana MTB routes, he will cover around 850 off-road kilometres, cover the elevation of Mt Everest TWICE. And to top it off, the day after he returns, he will run the Hardmoors Osmotherley Trail Marathon (in the North York Moors).

All for a Good Cause

Camino de Santiago 2014 (Via de la Plata route)
Camino de Santiago 2014 (Via de la Plata route)

To some it may sound a little crazy, but its all for a good cause; to raise money for Cleveland Mountain Rescue.

“I love adventuring in rural places, so I’m really excited to tour round the biggest mountains of mainland Spain and explore the hidden gems of Andalusia. I do confess to being nervous about the long climbs; I’ve cycled multi-day trips before, but have never encountered such long, grinding, off-road climbs. It’s gonna be challenging!

…and of course, I’ll be sporting the gear we rave about here at Feetus, including my KSO EVOs (the PERFECT lightweight travel shoes!), Injinji toe socks, the FirmAppa neck tubes (I don’t leave home without!), and some new Feetus t-shirts. I’ll also fuel-up on MuleBar” 

So if you place an order during the week between 5 – 12 June, we’d like to offer an EXTRA THANKS.

And if you’d like to give a little more to this worthwhile cause, please visit Lee’s JustGiving page here.

How Do Women’s Injinji Socks Compare to Unisex Toe Socks?

Do you ever wonder if its just a gimmick when a sports company offers an alternative for women?

We do.

Earlier this year, Injinji released their Womens-Specific range of toe socks. They claim that these lightweight no show toe socks ‘better accommodate the female foot’ and offer ‘increased heel-to-toe stretch’. There is a two-way stretch through the mid-point of the arch to provide better compression through the female foot, and the toe pockets have been re-designed for a ‘better, snugger fit’. It all sounds great – but is it marketing-speak or can these socks cut the mustard? 

Earlier this month, we asked one of our super-customers to compare the new ladies-specific Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight No Show Women’s Toe Socks to the existing unisex toe socks. We like open, honest, and candid reviews (see this one from last month) and welcome criticism and feedback. We’re not all about sales, sales, sales; we care about our customers so its important to get an unbiased review from customers just like you… So without further ado, here’s Cath’s review.

A look at the Women's Specific Toe Socks form Injinji
A look at the Women’s Specific Toe Socks form Injinji

Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight No Show Women’s Toe Socks – A Review

I have to admit to being a bit sceptical when I was asked to review Injinji’s women’s socks to see how they compare to unisex toe socks. I wear both ToeToe and Injinji toe socks on a regular basis and have never noticed a major problem with wearing a sock which wasn’t specifically designed for girls. I run almost exclusively in Vibram FiveFingers, usually with a lightweight liner.

First Impressions

My first impression when I took the socks out of the packet was that I liked the funky pattern (not that anyone’s going to see it once I’ve got my shoes on!) but that the fabric felt quite thick, especially for a sock described as “lightweight” with “ultra-thin” cushioning.

 The Fit

Getting the sock on was easy – the toes and heel fit in the right place first time with no need for adjustment. This is where I sometimes have issues with unisex socks – the toes tend to be a bit long and I have to tug on them to get them to fit snugly. Oddly, the ribbed band which is meant to support the arch sat too high on my foot but this didn’t cause any discomfort or chafing. The thick feel of the fabric was noticeable between the toes but overall, the sock felt snug – it hugged my foot without being constrictive.

As soon as I donned my Fivefingers, I completely forgot the socks were there – just what I demand of a toe sock. I’m always a bit wary of socks described as “no show” in case they’re too short and don’t protect my ankle from the cuff of my shoe, but these socks are a perfect length – they do show over the top of both FiveFingers and “normal” shoes but this doesn’t bother me as I prefer the protection this provides.

Buy Women’s Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Blister Prevention 

While running, the socks stayed in place perfectly, felt comfortable and prevented the blisters I get if I run without socks.

On Test

The initial test run was a 4-miler on a cool Spring morning, and the socks kept my feet nice and warm, which makes me wonder how they will hold up to Summer conditions. However, when I got home I discovered just how good the “moisture management” properties are – the socks were damp on the outside but when I took them off, my feet were totally dry. In comparison, after a similar run, both my ToeToes and my feet feel damp.

Overall, I liked these socks. I was surprised to find that the women’s socks do fit better than the unisex version and was very impressed with the wicking properties. In Summer, I would probably continue to use my ToeToes – even though they don’t wick as well as the Injinjis; they’re much thinner and cooler so I would expect my feet to sweat less in them. However, this particular Injinji sock looks set to become a favourite in the cooler months and if there were a thinner version it could well become the only sock in my drawer.

So… by the sounds of it, the Injinji Women’s-Specific toe socks do exactly what we expect.

Way to go Injinji! Keep up the good work!

Buy Women’s Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Injinji, Gotena, and V-Toes

Comparing Toe Socks

Comparing Toe Socks

Here at Feetus.co.uk, we’re mad about toe socks. We’re the nation’s favourite toe sock specialist and we try to offer you the biggest and best range on the market. Commonly used with Vibram FiveFingers, toe socks are fantastic for all sports, and offer superior blister-protection compared with the conventional sock.

But are all toe socks equal? Are some brands better than others?

With such a vast array of different brands, styles, weights, heights, and colours, its easy to get confused. Unsurprisingly, we were overjoyed when one of our super-customers and fellow toe sock lover sent us this comprehensive overview of toe socks. He reviewed a range of toe socks from brands Gotena, V-Toes, and industry-leading Injinji. Here’s what he thinks:

Gotena Toe Socks – An Overview

Maybe I have freakishly long toes but I found the toe pockets on Gotena toe socks to be unbelievably short, therefore removing the freedom for each toe that I/we the consumer buy these socks for in the first place. The point where the toe pockets join is halfway up the gap in your real toes, the pockets actually act to keep your toes together, thus making them almost as bad, if not worse than, normal socks.

Yes the fabric feels nice next to the skin, seems well constructed and is very light – however, this comes with a downside in that there is no structure at all to the sock – now I know that the whole idea of “going minimal”/wearing less footwear etc. is less structure but getting these things on is like putting on Clingfilm socks – i.e. not easy to say the least – I actually find that my medium and “heavy” weight Injinji socks are way easier to get on because at least they have some “shape”.

As already stated, I may have really long toes (but I don’t think so, maybe just above average) but surely the whole idea of toe socks is to allow toe freedom and a few mm extra is not going to cause issues, especially in these modern elasticated socks – if you lengthened the toes in these by 10-15 mm they would still be fine for short toed folks (they just wouldn’t max out the stretch but that wouldn’t cause bunching). It’s something I think even Injinji are guilty of and they are the nearest I found yet to having long enough

I have to admit to being surprised at the narrowness of the toe pockets too as my toes are certainly on the skinnier side of average and these are tight – again, a habit of other toe sock makers I find hard to understand – maybe it’s the whole obsession with things fitting “snugly” and compression wear and all that nonsense but I’ve worn “normal” socks with no elastic and in a wide fit as an alternative to toe socks and never had any issues with the extra fabric, just that age old problem with shape and even being super wide, they still pulled the big toe in due to the taper of the toe box.

I don’t want to rant but come on some sock company out there, try this – make the toes a bit longer and wider and everything a bit less stretchy and not so thin that they have no shape at all – you might just be surprised at the results – socks don’t have to be this tight to keep them in place and then we’ll get the freedom our toes deserve.

Buy Gotena toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

V-Toes – An Overview

I’m afraid not much good to say here about V-Toes – they appear poorly made with loose loops at the end of each toe pocket, loose threads everywhere inside and again, toe pockets big enough for my 3 year olds toes, but these are for size 11 feet.

It is really hard to get on to each toe; I couldn’t possibly recommend them – I’m sure there are people who’ve found these OK but I think that’s more of a reflection of the poor standard of what’s available.

 Buy V-Toe toe socks from Feetus.co.uk

Injinji – An Overview

And to finish, Injinji Performance 2.0 Lightweight and Injinji Outdoor MidWeight NuWool – by far the best of the bunch – both well made with the ‘Lightweights’ still having enough shape/hold to make them a breeze to put on (a breeze for toe socks that is!), being Lightweight (obviously) and almost long enough in the toes.

The Outdoor range of toe socks are probably my favourite of the lot, not being overly thick but with enough warmth for the depths of a UK/Irish winter (not going to say Scottish winter as that’s a different ball game altogether) which is very useful with most minimal footwear being low on insulated properties.

Buy Injinji toe socks from Feetus.co.uk 

Toe Socks – A Summary

So to summarise it’s fairly clear – unless there’s a toe sock company out there making toe socks with longer toes and less restriction/too much elastic then Injinji are the clear winner for now.

It’s all very well saving a couple of quid [by purchasing the cheaper toe socks] but the Injinjis hold up well too.

To be fair to V-Toes and Gotena, I’ve not had them long enough to see if they last – but then I wouldn’t want them too as they are awful to wear. I’ve had a couple of pairs of the Injinji NuWool for a while now and they are going to take a long time to wear out.

Overall – If you’re looking for a reliable toe sock that not only fits well, but also offers supreme performance and longevity, the Injinji toe sock is what you need.

See the full range of toe socks at Feetus.co.uk

Injinji, Gotena, and V-Toes
Do you have a favourite toe sock? Let us know by leaving a comment
Kalclash reviews the KSO Evo for Feetus.co.uk

The KSO Evo – First Impressions from Steve Kalclash

Steve Kalclash from Kalclash Fitness reviews the KSO EVO

Steve is fanatical about Vibrams, and has been a Feetus Fan for a long time. His YouTube Channel is building up a very loyal following, covering various topics from triathlon, vegan living, and of his passion for Vibrams. We just love his no-nonsense, candid approach to reviews.

We couldn’t believe that after covering more than 2,000 miles in his collection of Bikilas, he hadn’t ever tried a pair of KSO EVO – so we intervened and this is what Steve thinks of his new KSO EVOs.

You can now watch his video review below.

 

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here

…and we think they’re fantastic too! So great, in fact, that we paid tribute to the KSO EVO in our recent blog post (after 950 miles of running in them!).

What do you think about the KSO Evo?

We’d love to hear what you think about the KSO Evo too! How close is it to barefoot running? Are these your favourite minimalist running shoes? What do you use them for mostly? Leave a comment and let us know…

To see the full range of KSO EVOs – click here

Homage to Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo

Homage to Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo

I’ve been using my KSO Evo for more than 12 months now, and as they’re about to hit the 1,000 mile mark, I thought it was about to time I showed some love for them. Here’s an overview and my long-overdue review.

If you have a pair of KSO Evo, we’d be interested to see or hear how your Vibrams are getting on too. 

A Brief History of the KSO Evo

In case you’re wondering, KSO stands for Keep Stuff Out. Evo is short for Evolution, and evolve is exactly what this shoe has done.

The KSO Evo evolved from the original KSO and since the shoe’s release in February 2014, the KSO Evo has become the most popular FiveFingers style. It is not surprising, then, that Vibram have decided to make absolutely no changes to this shoe for 2015 (except release new colours, in grey/black for men, and purple/grey for women).

Speed-Lace System

The original KSO featured a hook and loop Velcro fastening system that I felt was flawless. I was skeptical about the new speed-lace system on the KSO Evo, but I was very quickly won over.

The lace system provides a much wider opening of the shoe that greatly enhances the ease of getting your foot in to the shoe. For me, there is no more squeezing and fumbling to get your feet in to the shoe; the foot slides straight in. Easy on / Easy off. Pop on a pair of toe socks, and its even easier.

Once you’ve got the shoes on, you slide the lace and release the quick lace button and you won’t have to readjust the shoes again during your workout. It is that simple.

Ground Feel

Often referred to as proprioception or barefoot feel, the KSO Evo wins hands-down in this department. With a maximum sole thickness of just 4.7mm, you are able to get fantastic feedback from the ground. Whether you like it or not, you really do feel everything under your feet.

The XS Trek sole features a zig-zag pattern that provides a surprising amount of grip, and because the sole is so thin from heel to toe, there is total flexibility.

What is the KSO Evo best for?

The KSO Evo is perhaps the most versatile shoe in the Vibram FiveFingers collection. I’ve used mine for road running, on the treadmill, on dry trails, in the gym, for leisure and for travelling. It is impossible to put the shoe in to one category so I’ll give an overview for each and a suitability rating.

Road / Treadmill Running

The bulk of my 950 miles with the KSO Evo has come from road running. The low weight makes for an excellent road and treadmill shoe. There is no bulk to slow you down and the thin sole ensures you maintain a good cadence.

Road / Treadmill Running Rating: 9/10

Trail Running

As you know, trails can wildly differ. From smooth, dusty trails, to boggy, wet single-track, to technical descents, it is impossible to get a trail shoe that suits all off-road terrain. The KSO Evo is definitely not a good shoe for mud (for that, see the Spyridon MR), and for technical terrain that may have sharp stones and gravel, you really don’t want a sole this thin (for that, see the Trek Ascent). But in the summer months when the trails dry up and you’re present with dry terrain, the KSO Evo really can perform. The zig-zag sole pattern offers substantial off-road grip and the lightness of the shoe makes it very agile. Just be careful of anything sharp or gnarly underfoot!

Trail Running Rating: 4/10 

Gym use

The polyester mesh upper fabric is extremely breathable and is treated with Aegis Anti Microbial, which prevents the build up of odour. I’m no gym monster, but I do enjoy indoor training and bodyweight exercises, and I find the KSO Evo extremely capable. The flat, low-profile nature of the shoe provides unparalleled balance. The KSO Evo may just revolutionise your ‘leg day’ at the gym!

Gym Rating: 9/10

KSO Evo. Good in the gym!
KSO Evo: Good in the gym!

Leisure use

I don’t wear Vibrams very often for everyday use. I use mine solely for training and travel, but that’s just my personal preference. However, the KSO Evo is perhaps the least offensive of all Vibrams. The design is minimal, the black colourway is relaxed, and they are extremely comfortable. Like slippers, honestly!

Leisure / Everyday / Casual Rating: 6/10

Travel

When travelling light, you want things that take up the least room with the least weight. The KSO Evo is not only both of those, but is also extremely flexible; you can roll them up – They are packable footwear!

I took mine when bike-packing (backpacking on a bike!) in 2014; riding the Via de la Plata (Camino de Santiago) from Seville to Santiago de Compostela. The KSO Evo added just 220g to my setup and slid in inconspicuously in to my dry bag attached to my handlebars. I’ll be taking them again for this year’s adventure. They are an absolute Godsend for travelling light.

Travel Rating: 10/10

Durability and Longevity of the KSO Evo

My KSO Evo, despite the high mileage they have already endured, still look almost new. The upper fabric remains intact, the soles show only mild signs of wear on the outside of the forefoot, and they still smell (relatively) fresh. My first pair of KSO (original) lasted 1,300 miles, and I’m expecting to get at least another 1,000 miles from my KSO Evo.

I would recommend the KSO Evo to any body who is looking for a do-it-all pair of minimalist running shoes. The thin sole does mean that you must run correctly; no more heel striking, and transition in to your Vibrams gradually.

Take a look at the KSO Evo now.