The New Vibram Furoshiki Wrapping Sole – A Feetus Review

As most of our customers will be aware, we began stocking the new Vibram Furoshiki last month. If you have not heard already, then this is the latest product from Vibram, and they’re not FiveFingers!

The idea behind them is that is essentially a sole, that proceeds to wrap around your foot. Furoshiki is a type of Japanese wrapping cloth, traditionally used to wrap clothes, gifts etc. and is the inspiration behind this new shoe.

Vibram market these as a casual shoe, ideal for travel, day to day use, that kind of thing. While some may expect them to be a sport/active shoe, they aren’t, and I’m not sure how these would hold up to such activities. But that’s not a bad thing, as these are a great looking shoe (some might argue a little easier on the eye than FiveFingers), they are a great design, and they are extremely comfortable.

On first opening, they are presented in a handy carry bag, perfect for travelling, as they are compact, and stops your shoes trampling over your clean clothes! The shoes themselves are wrapped up, but it doesn’t feel like it is forced. You would usually feel like your were going to split something if you bent a shoe in half, but it feels like a normal state with the Furoshikis, a very well made shoe.

The design itself is very innovative. The shoe opens up, as you may have seen in the pictures, and you simply slide your foot in, and strap the ‘wings’ around and Velcro them on. The heel feels very secure, and the material used on the pouch for your toes is very comfortable. They are perfect for any foot size and type; wide, narrow, funny shaped toes, everything. The way they are designed, if you suffer from bunions, the material simply fits around it, you no longer have to squeeze them into an uncomfortable shoe.

The first thing I noticed when walking around, is that you don’t get the usual crimp in the shoe where your toes bend. My toes were free to do as they please, and felt like I was walking around barefoot. There is enough give in the material to allow for natural movement, but not so much that it would feel like you were going to slip out of them.

For those with wide feet, there is a feature on the shoe which I think is great, the material of the soles on the shoe come up around the sides, so if you have a wide foot, the shoe simply flexes wider. No normally this would mean the material hitting the floor, and eventually tearing. But with the Furoshikis, the grip coming up the sides simply becomes part of the sole for people with wider feet. Great design work.

Now, for the colours, as you can see by the pictures, I tried the black, but, as you may expect with Vibram, there are plenty of colour options. The Black, Gru and Murble are all pretty standard colours, but then we have some of the more ‘out there’ colours, which can be seen here; Hmong, Carribean, Phulkari and Shipibo, with more to follow.

To summarise, I think the Furoshiki are exactly what they were designed to be. A comfortable, natural and compact shoe which is ideal for travel and casual use. They are one of the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn, and think they would be a great companion on holiday!

We’ll be doing a write up on some of the new FiveFinger range soon, so make sure you check back!

 

Steve Kalclash – First Impressions of the Trek Ascent

Steve Kalclash, a die-hard vegan and barefoot running fanatic, normally does the bulk of his running on the road, but we wanted to get his verdict on the new Trek Ascent. So he’s recently been putting in the miles off-road, trail running, and he made this short video to let us all know his first impressions of the Trek Ascent.

Who is Steve Kalclash?

For those of you that don’t know Steve, he is an inspirational character. His YouTube channel is growing bigger all the time and his videos range massively; from his vegan diet to product reviews, and training tips involving running, cycling, and weight lifting. His favourite Vibram FiveFingers model (given he is a road runner) is the Bikila EVO, but he’s a massive fan of the KSO EVO too. He also reviewed the KSO EVO earlier this year for us. See the video here. 

The Trek Ascent – An Overview

In the Trek Ascent ‘Family’ there are three styles all featuring the same patented MEGAGRIP sole. They are all great for trail running, hiking, trekking, and casual use. The sole offers great grip on all surfaces, but is not too aggressive, making it still a good choice for road running too.

The TREK ASCENT is the original, featuring a synthetic upper fabric. The lightest in the range, the Ascent is fast and grippy, ideal for off-road racing and mud obstacle events (i.e. Tough Mudder). The synthetic, lightweight upper fabric means the shoe dries quicker should you get it wet.

The TREK ASCENT LR is exactly the same as the TREK ASCENT, expect the upper fabric is a combination of Hemp and Kangaroo Leather. This combination of materials makes the shoe naturally water-resistant and more durable.

The TREK ASCENT INSULATED is the newest style in the range, and is reinforced with wool inside the shoe making it really warm. Ideal for winter and cold weather.

 

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.

Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

2015’s Vibram FiveFingers. An Overview.

An Introduction to 2015’s Vibram FiveFingers

2015 is here and we’re delighted to present to you a wonderful range of Vibram FiveFingers. We truly believe that this year there is something for everybody. Old styles such as the Trek Sport and the Seeya LS have made way for new releases, and we’re thrilled with the offering.

We’ve given them all a quirky name so hopefully you’ll be able to use this to figure out which style is best for you and your preferred uses. Each style has a quick overview so you can easily understand what the shoe is designed for:

  • The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR
  • The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR
  • The One For Water – Signa
  • The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop
  • The Classic – VI-B and EL-X
  • The Bestseller – KSO Evo
  • The Revolutionary (aka The Expensive One) – KMD Evo
  • The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS
  • The Road Runner – Bikila Evo
  • The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP
  • The Casual One – CVT-Hemp

Have a read through the article and click the images to see the full product description of each.

The Big Hit – Trek Ascent / Trek Ascent LR

NEW FOR 2015

  • Trail Running
  • Trekking / Hiking
  • Mud / Obstacle Events

The Trek Ascent replaces the Trek Sport and the leather (LR) version has been released to satisfy the huge demand for an off-road leather shoe.

The shoe offers incredible rugged traction for all surfaces but is most capable on off-road adventures. The MEGAGRIP sole compound ensures you’ll have a firm and grounded experience when you’re on the trails.

The Trek Ascent LR does exactly the same job, except you can expect more durability with added water resistance from the leather and hemp upper fabric.Vibram Fivefingers Trek Ascent. Off-Road and Trail Running Shoes. Available at Feetus.co.uk

The Trek Ascent – Available for both men and women in a choice of different colours

The Mud Racer – Spyridon MR

  • Mud / Obstacle Events
  • Trail Running

If you’ve ever ran a muddy obstacle event you will have no doubt seen people lose their shoes in the mud or witnessed people losing their grip on the wet and muddy sections. That’s where the Spyridon MR comes in. MR stands for ‘Mud Runner’ and the shoe is equipped with a multidirectional lug pattern to ensure solid grip in all directions. Additionally, there is a molded 3D cocoon nylon mesh in the midsole to disperse impact.

Spyridon MR from Feetus.co.uk

 Men’s and Women’s Spyridon MR

The One For Water – Signa

  • Surfing and Watersports (Kayaking, Rowing, SUP)

FiveFingers’ signature water sport shoe, the Signa is ultra-thin, flexible and lightweight. The Signa offers incredible grip thanks to the WAVEGRIP sole compound and is very comfortable, both in and out of the water.

Vibram FiveFingers Signa - Watersports shoe from Feetus.co.uk

 The Signa – Available for men and women

The Elegant Choice – Alitza Loop

NEW FOR 2015

  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure

Available for ladies’ only, the Alitza Loop replaces the incredibly popular original Alitza. Favoured by yoga, pilates and barre practitioners, but is also great for any indoor activities. Lightweight, breathable and perfect for fitness classes and studio sessions as well as travel and casual use.

Vibram FiveFingers Alitza Loop from Feetus.co.uk

The Alitza Loop. An elegant, ladies-only style

The Men’s Classic – EL-X

  • Indoor Training
  • Travel

Available for men only, although women with wider feet often prefer the EL-X. This simple ‘barefoot’ shoe has no fastening mechanism and is versatile, comfortable and easy on and easy off. Equipped with Vibram’s thinnest sole (just 3.5mm), the EL-X offers incredible ground feel. The minimalist nature of the shoe, its flexibility and its low weight make it a perfect travel companion.

Vibram FiveFingers EL-X from Feetus.co.uk

 The EL-X. Available in black and red/black. Designed for men but also suitable for women

The Women’s Classic – VI-B

  • Fitness Classes
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Yoga, Pilates, indoor sessions
  • Travel

Available for women only, the VI-B is for the elegant minimalist. Consider this an ‘evloved ballet flat’; featherlight, breathable and slim-fitting. Great for indoor training, casual use and for no-fuss travel. Also comes with a free polyester mesh bag that matches your shoes!

Vibram FiveFingers VI-B from Feetus.co.uk

 Available in a choice of colours, the beautiful VI-B

The Bestseller – KSO Evo

  • Indoor Training
  • Road Running
  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

The KSO Evo replaced the original KSO back in 2013 and has become a firm favourite since. Ideal for pretty much anything, it is difficult to say what the KSO Evo is actually best for. Its great for hitting the gym, for tarmac running, and due to its sleek design (that isn’t quite as ‘outrageous’) as some other styles, the KSO Evo is popular as an everyday shoe.

Vibram FiveFingers KSO Evo from Feetus.co.uk

Always a hit! The KSO Evo available in various colours for both men and women

The Revolutionary – KMD Evo

NEW FOR 2015

  • Parkour, Free Running & Similar
  • Indoor training
  • Casual & Leisure

Inspired by the rise in parkour and free running, the KMD Evo is a revolutionary new shoe from Vibram Fivefingers. The upper fabric is made from 100% low elastic polyester filament (similar to Nike’s FlyKnit material). The sole is fantastic for dynamic movement, for climbing, leaping and balancing. Its true that this shoe is expensive, but the KMD Evo certainly feels like a luxurious product.

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 

Leap, bound, climb, run. The KMD Evo for men and women

The Indoor Favourite – KMD Sport LS

  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

Previously known as the Komodo Sport, the KMD Sport LS is hands-down the best indoor training shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The multi-drection lug pattern on the soles makes it great for agile, lateral movements and intense workouts. The flexibility of the shoe provides great feedback (barefoot feel) and the upper fabric is reinforced in places to support the likes of rope climbing and other CrossFit-type exercises.

KMD Sport LS from Feetus.co.uk

The KMD Sport LS: Available for men and women in various colours

The Road Runner – Bikila Evo

  • Road Running
  • Indoor Training
  • Walking

The Bikila Evo is an ideal shoe to transition in to barefoot running. At 6.5mm the sole is about halfway between the thinnest and thickest making it a perfect indtroductory shoe.

But that’s not all. The Bikila Evo is the premium road running shoe from Vibram FiveFingers. The lightweight EVA midsole provides a thin blanket of cushioning that really helps during races and long runs.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila Evo from Feetus.co.uk

 Rapid! The Bikila Evo, for road running

The Waterproof One – Bikila Evo WP

  • Road Running
  • Snow and Ice
  • Poor Weather Running

Introduced in late 2014, the Bikila Evo WP was a godsend to many. Finally, we have a ‘barefoot’ running shoe that is 100% waterproof. A total revalation, the Bikila Evo is startlingly good-looking, and the ICETREK sole compound acts as a sticky grip on ice and snow.Bikila Evo Waterproof from Feetus

 

The Casual One – CVT Hemp

  • Casual & Leisure
  • Travel

Minimalist shoe lovers will be impressed by the CVT Hemp. Lightweight, breathable and stylish; there’s no fastening mechanism – it’s a simple slip-on shoe where the heel can also fold down to act like a clog. Durable and comfortable.

Vibram FiveFingers CVT Hemp from Feetus.co.uk
CVT Hemp, available for both men and women

 

What do you think of 2015’s Vibrams?

With the increase in people participating in muddy obstacle events and the growing popularity of trail and ultra running, we believe the Trek Ascent is going to be the big favourite five-toe’d shoe of 2015. But there seems to be a massive movement in people getting fit, going to fitness classes and PT sessions so the KMD Sport LS and the KSO Evo are likely to be big hits too.

Which is your favourite style for 2015?

If you could, what else would you have liked to see?

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila Evo WP Review

Until now, the cold, wet, wintry weather has always been a real nightmare for barefoot and minimalist runners. What do we do; opt for a thicker-soled conventional shoe with Gore-Tex protection, or stick to our Vibrams and risk getting our feet wet and cold. I’ve always fallen in to the latter group. I was never a fan of Vibram’s Lontra, and for years have yearned for Vibram FiveFingers to create a waterproof barefoot shoe.

Introducing the FIRST and ONLY waterproof five-toed shoe!

Finally. Minimalist running shoes designed for winter, built to last, and waterproof!

Five Things You Should Know About the Bikila Evo WP

  1. WP stands for waterproof (and the shoe is exactly that – completely waterproof!)
  2. The Bikila Evo WP is the only waterproof shoe from Vibram FiveFingers
  3. Built on the ICETREK sole, the WP is designed for extra grip on ice
  4. Two fastening mechanisms: quick-lace AND zipper!
  5. Available for both men and women

First Impressions. Out of the Box

The Bikila Evo WP is unique in design. The Bikila Evo WP comes up to below the ankle similar to the long-redundant Bormio. The fabric is surprisingly lightweight, given that the shoe is waterproof. I was expecting something tougher. The workmanship on the shoe is top-class. It seems Vibram FiveFingers have really got it right in 2014 – The quality of the shoes this year have been of much better quality than previous years.

Fastening

The shoe has two fastening mechanisms. Inside is a concealed internal quick-lace system that is used to ensure a close fit. There is then the zip with taped seams either side which is used to keep the shoe completely waterproof.

The sole

Built on the same ‘style’ of sole as the original Bikila Evo, except the sole on the WP is made from Vibram’s patented ICETREK technology. Not only has this rubber compound been granted full marks by Vibram for its durability, it is “developed to grant the best grip on very cold, iced, or snowy surfaces, VIBRAM® Icetrek allows you to move, work, and live safely on mountains and in cold areas.”

ICETREK. In Vibram's own words
ICETREK. In Vibram’s own words

Sizing

A Little Too Snug?

I am commonly between sizes in Vibrams. I am right at the threshold with most Vibram models: Size 44 in KSO Evo, Trek Sport, CVT LS, Lontra – but am a size 45 in the Spyridon. I am a size 45 in the Bikila Evo WP too. I figured sizing-up would be a wise move anyway, given that the Bikila Evo WP is designed for more wintery conditions, and I will likely be wearing toe socks underneath.

So… If your toes touch the end in your normal Vibrams, I would recommend going an extra size up.

How Waterproof Are They?

I can happily confirm that the Bikila Evo WP is completely waterproof. I’ve ran through puddles, through wet grass, sloppy mud, and did the ‘dip test’ in the lake. No water gets through the waterproof membrane. The only way your feet are going to get wet in this shoe is through the hole that your foot gets in. They are as waterproof as possible for a shoe!

How ‘Grippy’ is the ICETREK Sole?

It’s a little early to tell as we haven’t had any snow and ice to test the sole on yet. I’ve tested them on wet tarmac, on slippery paving stones, and on slimy autumn leaves – and truth be told – they seem to offer no more traction than a standard pair of Vibrams. I honestly find that my KSO Evo handle corners (on wet terrain) more capable than the ICETREK. But before I jump the gun – we need snow and ice to test these on. Watch this space.

How Warm Is The Bikila Evo WP?

I’m been incredibly impressed with the warmth from the Bikila Evo WP. Despite the material being incredible lightweight and relatively thin, they do provide a great deal of insulation.

Additionally, I’ve took these for the occasional spin in warmer weather (15C+) and my feet haven’t overheated.

How Breathable Are They?

The longest run I have done in the Bikila Evo WP so far is 7 miles. Despite the outer fabric getting wet, my feet inside stayed completely dry. No traces of sweat, despite wearing thick toe socks underneath.

Conclusion

Despite my initial apprehension on the level of waterproofing, I am completely bowled over by this winter-proof barefoot running shoe.

The downsides to the Bikila Evo WP are: 

  • Fits a little more snug than normal (very slightly)
  • The concealed quick lace has excess lace (easily resolved by cutting or tucking inside the shoe once zipped
  • The toe pockets seem a little narrower than normal

The positives far outweigh the negatives

  • The shoe is completely waterproof!
  • The shoe is gorgeous – Black and Grey (with a dash of either red for men, or purple for women)is a great choice of colour
  • You can achieve a very precise, comfortable fit using the the internal lacing system and the external zip
  • Optimum grip on ice and snow
  • Good degree of warmth
  • Of all the Vibrams, this is the best running shoe for winter

Overall, I am exceptionally pleased with the quality of this shoe and am excited for the onset of ice and snow!

Buy The Bikila Evo WP at Feetus.co.uk Today

Do I need to size-up in Vibram FiveFingers to accommodate toe-socks?

If you wear Vibram FiveFingers, or are thinking about buying a pair of Vibrams, this can be a common issue. First of all, you need to decide whether you want to wear toe socks under your FiveFingers – and then – if you did use toe socks – would you need to get a bigger shoe size to accommodate the extra bulk from the sock?

Should I Wear Toe Socks Under My Vibram FiveFingers?

This all comes down to personal preference. At Feetus, we find that around 30% of our customers wear toe socks in the summer, but in winter, this percentage increases to around 90%. As you can expect, the colder months prompt barefooters to reach for socks to add an extra degree of warmth.

Personally, I wore Vibrams for years before I started to wear toe socks. My first pair of FiveFingers was the original KSO. I wanted to try toe socks, but was always put-off by the price (£10+ for one pair!). I eventually took the plunge and found that the quality just didn’t meet the price tag. This, HOWEVER, was back in 2011 – and Injinji have drastically improved the quality of their toe socks.

Now, I know that their range of toe socks are WORTH £10+, given their very high quality, longevity, and performance benefits. At Feetus, we like to offer discounts on toe socks too, so you can always pick up toe socks for less than £10, and we always have a toe sock ‘special offer’ for you to get extra value.

Nowadays, I very rarely wear Vibram FiveFingers WITHOUT socks.

Do I Need To Get A Bigger Size Vibram FiveFingers To Wear Toe Socks?

No.

There is a common misconception that in order to wear socks under your Vibrams, you need to get a larger shoe size. This is not the case.

Think about the conventional shoes you’ve been wearing over the years. How many times have you thought ‘I need to wear socks today – these shoes are going to be too small’? The answer is probably ‘Never’ – and the same applies to your Vibrams.

Toe socks come in a variety of different styles, with the common factor between each being the weight. Using the original performance toesock brand Injinji as an example, they offer Lightweight, Original Weight, Run MidWeight, Trail MidWeight, NuWool Original Weight, and the range is constantly growing and evolving.

Side Note – Please be aware that MidWeight socks (both in the RUN and TRAIL series’) may be a little too thick to wear in your Vibram FiveFingers. Injinji’s Yoga Socks are also not recommended for use in shoes. 

 

What Other Toe Sock Brands Are There?

Injinji are definitely the pioneers. They’re the original creator of the performance toesock, however, we’re proud to offer GOTENA and V-Toes.

GOTENA make fabulous-quality toe socks. Their Merino Wool sock is fantastic quality, and they have also filled the gap by offering their GHOST sock, which is very similar to the (now-unavailable-in-the-UK) Injinji PED.

V-Toes offer an all-black toe sock, similar to Injinji’s Original Weight Mini Crew.

 

Check out the full range of Toe Socks here

Pre-Order the Bikila Evo WP

Vibram FiveFingers releasing limited no. of Bikila Evo WP early

We released a Sneak-Peak of the Bikila Evo WP earlier this year, heaping praise on Vibram for FINALLY creating something waterproof. We were critical about it all too. Vibram had planned to release the shoe AFTER winter, and had also slapped a whopping £180 price tag on the shoe. Outrageous.

Click here to buy

Influencing for the Better
Shortly after that article, we learned that Vibram decided to put more gusto in to the production of the Bikila Evo WP in a bid to release them BEFORE winter. Coincidentally, the RRP was also reduced to £150.

Now for the Good Bit

  • We’ve secured a limited number of Bikila Evo WP and they’re expected to land in the UK mid-November.
  • We have also slashed an extra 10% off!

Click here to buy

And as always – You’ll get these delivered for FREE (within the UK). 
PLEASE NOTE:
  • This offer is only exclusively available during the Pre-Order period. 
  • Bikila Evo WP stock is extremely limited. We expect to sell out during pre-order. Once our quota has sold, it’s gone; so claim yours early! 
  • Payment is taken at the time of order.
  • Any add-on items made during your purchase of the Bikila Evo WP will be despatched in full once the Evo WP arrives in stock. 

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE BIKILA EVO WP

Mens CVT LS

Get £20 off the Vibram FiveFingers CVT LS

Get the Vibram CVT LS for just £79.

Vibram’s sexiest, most casual ‘barefoot’ shoe is now available in the UK, from Feetus.co.uk!

Until now, the CVT LS has eluded the UK despite it being available in almost every other country in the world. We’re pleased to have sourced a limited number of these gorgeous shoes and to celebrate, we’re offering you the chance to get an extra £20 off! This offer will end 30-September-2014. 

Discount Code for the CVT LS

Simply add a pair of the CVT LS to your basket and enter the following discount code at the checkout:

CVTLS20

…and as if that weren’t enough. You also get FREE DELIVERY and a Feetus ‘Fappa’ COMPLETELY FREE.

Exclusive look at the Bikila EVO WP

2015 Vibram FiveFingers. Sneak Preview No.4: Bikila Evo WP

Waterproof Vibram FiveFingers!

The Bikila EVO WP is now available to buy from feetus.co.uk.

…At Last!  

Every year, when winter rears its head, we are bombarded with customers all asking the big question: “Which pair of Vibram FiveFingers is waterproof”? And we shrug, answering “Well, there is the Lontra, but it is only water-resistant, but you these other styles are also worthy of consideration in winter…”. Until now, we usually point customers to this article What Vibram FiveFingers Shall I Wear In Winter?.

We never expected a waterproof style of Vibrams to ever become available. In all honesty, I had questioned how you could actually make a ‘barefoot shoe’ that also could keep the water out. But now, in principle at least, Vibram have developed just that, and we’re proud to present the Bikila EVO WP.

Introducing the Bikila EVO WP

During a Vibram FiveFingers presentation last year, a spokesman demonstrated the power of this new sole technology they had created. One man attempted to walk over an ice rink in a standard shoes while the other, equipped with a Vibram ICETREK compound sole, made his way over the ice without any trouble at all. Vibram FiveFingers went on to develop this technology further, creating their first waterproof shoe.

ICE Trek Sole by Vibram FiveFingers
ICE Trek Sole by Vibram FiveFingers

Due for release early 2015  (NOW AVAILABLE – CLICK HERE) the Bikila EVO WP is like a cross between the Bikila EVO and the below-par Lontra. The WP has this super grippy sole and a waterproof tri-layer stretch fabric equipped with a waterproof zip that comes to ankle height. A lot of customers who bought the Lontra had trouble with the neoprene cuff either being so tight it dug in to their calf/achilles; or is was too slack, ultimately letting in water. Vibram have sensibly removed this neoprene cuff and replaced it with a much improved abrasion-resistant tricot lining.

Exclusive look at the Bikila EVO WP
Exclusive look at the Bikila EVO WP

The sole thickness is exactly the same as the Bikila EVO (6.5mm). The shoe is around 20% heavier (just 150g total weight!) than the original EVO, which isn’t bad considering the extra benefits of the shoe.

  • WEIGHT: M43 = 5.29oz W38 = 3.88oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 6.5mm (2.5mm
  • Rubber/ 4.0mm-EVA)
  • INSOLE: Waterproof Fabric
  • UPPER MATERIAL: Tri-Layer Stretch
  • Waterproof Fabric
  • VEGAN
  • Hand Wash Cold/Air Dry

The official Vibram blurb: “Same minimalist design as our hard-working Bikila EVO, but with waterproof stretch-membrane construction, taped seams and a water-resistant gaiter to keep the wet environment at bay. An ideal running shoe for those looking for grip, and durability on ice.”

The Feetus Verdict

My concern is that this waterproof shoe has been developed on the Bikila Evo. The Bikila Evo features an EVA midsole, and this EVA material is partially exposed. My experience of EVA is that it is like lightweight, dense rubber. This rubber can contract with each step and return back to its former shape. As the EVA rubber is so light, there is obviously air inside. When the rubber reduces in size, it pushes the air out. Then when the rubber returns to its normal state, it takes air in.

My experience of running with shoes with an exposed EVA midsole is that, (and this becomes more prominent over time, as the outer sole wears thinner), when the EVA ‘breathes’, it soaks up water. While this may be a tiny amount of water with each step, but over the course of a run, when the terrain is completely wet, the EVA begins to soak up the water and your feet get wet.

Vibram FiveFingers Bikila EVO WP from Feetus.co.uk
The Bikila EVO WP

Of course, I may be completely wrong about the Bikila Evo WP. I haven’t tested this shoe yet, but for me it would have made sense to have built this waterproof shoe on the new Trek Ascent. The Trek Ascent also features a 4mm EVA midsole, but at least this is not exposed in any way – with the outsole completely covered with durable rubber.

Save up now, or get wet feet

Only time will tell… but again we feel Vibram have let themselves down with the price tag again. The Bikila EVO WP comes in at a whopping £180 RRP (UK RRP now lowered to £150 – Buy the Bikila EVO WP from Feetus.co.uk now)

Vibram FiveFingers Logo

 

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo - New for 2015

2015 Vibram FiveFingers. Sneak Preview No.3: KMD Evo

For the last four years, the Vibram FiveFingers KMD (formerly Komodo) Sport has been the go-to shoe for gym-goers. In 2015, the KMD Sport LS remains, but has a little brother; the KMD Evo.

Introducing the KMD Evo

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

According to Vibram, “The new KMD EVO defies gravity (and conventional wisdom), allowing athletes extraordinary freedom for dynamic movement both in the air and on the ground. For fitness fanatics without boundaries, the KMD EVO transcends traditional sport, making it the ideal leaping, climbing, balancing shoe for those seeking a minimal shoe experience with maximum flight potential.”

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Available for both men and women

  • WEIGHT: M43 = 7.40oz W38=5.64oz
  • MAX SOLE THICKNESS: 11.8mm (6mm EVA midsole + 2 mm insole + 3.8mm
  • Rubber outsole)
  • INSOLE: 2mm polyurethane insole + anti-microbial drilex sockliner
  • UPPER MATERIAL: 100% low elastic polyester filament
  • VEGAN
  • Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry

Feetus Verdict

Whilst looking at the KMD Evo there is no doubt that this is an exceptionally high quality shoe. It looks as though it has taken inspiration from the Nike Flyknit, with the polyester filament upper, and is extremely comfortable and feels very breathable.

The shoe is noticeably heavier than other Vibrams, and the sole is the thickest ever seen on a pair of FiveFingers.

Vibram have definitely got the aesthetics right with this shoe. The KMD Evo looks so cool and features reflective print too.

The big turn-off is the price. These things ain’t cheap, and come with a hefty £180 RRP. As such, we believe the KMD Evo is a shoe for the purists only. Let’s hope they don’t make any more ridiculously priced shoes!!

Fans of Parkour, Urban gymnastics, break dancers and Free Runners will love the KMD EVO.

NOW IN STOCK – CLICK HERE TO VIEW / BUY NOW

Vibram FiveFingers KMD Evo - New for 2015