Vibram FiveFingers

Vibram FiveFingers A-Z

Not sure which Vibram FiveFingers are right for you? Don’t worry, we are here to help! We understand that it can be a daunting task choosing the right pair of Vibram FiveFingers range, so we have pulled together a fairly minimalist overview of the current FiveFinger range in our Vibram FiveFingers A-Z, in a bid to educate enough to pick the style that is right for you. In this Vibram FiveFingers A-Z we have included what activities they are geared towards, what our thoughts are on them and any other information that we feel would be helpful for you to know.

Classic

Available for men and women.

Great For: Gym, Leisure and Casual, Watersports

Where it all began, Vibrams first barefoot/minimalist shoe. The 3.5mm sole gives flexibilty and grip, so great for a variety of activites. There is no lace system, they slip on and have a low cut front but do have an adjustment on the heel to ensure a snug fit

EL-X

Available for men only.

Great For: Gym, Treadmill, Road Running, Indoor Training

Released in 2013, the EL-X has been a massive hit, mainly due to being the thinnest Vibram sole to date. The EL-X is very versatile, and will cope with almost anything. Ideal for running, for the gym, and for leisure purposes. There is no fastening mechanism (the lace-up version is called the KSO-EVO), so the upper fabric hugs your foot like a glove to keep the shoe firmly on your feet.

KMD SPORT

Available for men and women.

Great For: Gym, Crossfit, Indoor Exercise

The KMD Sport takes inspiration from the KSO with a few functional improvements to make them for a wider range of activities. They have a hook and loop closure system, making them easy to put on and take off and a 4mm outsole

KSO CLASSIC

Available for men and women.

Great For: Gym, Leisure and Casual, Indoor Exercise, Outdoor Activity

The KSO Classic made a come back for its 10th Anniversary and was so popular, is not a full time inclusion in Vibrams line up. Versatile across indoor and outdoor activity due to its non-marking soles and grips that make it great across all terrain, wet or dry.

KSO EVO

Available for men only.

Great For: Road Running, Treadmill, Gym, Leisure and Casual

Released in 2014, and built on the same sole as the super-popular EL-X, the KSO Evo is a versatile, lightweight minimalist shoe that forms part of vibrams Maxi Feel range. You can use the KSO Evo for all sorts of activities from running and gym use, to slack-lining and general leisure / everyday.

SeeYA

Available for men only.

Great For: Road Running, Treadmill, Gym, Leisure and Casual, Outdoor Activities, Vegan Friendly

Recently brought back into the Vibram line-up, The SeeYa is for the serious minimalist runners. Extremely lightweight with a breathable mesh upper and a thin outsole to maximise feel and flexibility and excellent road running choice.

Trek Sport

Available for men only.

Great For: Outdoor Activity, Trails, Running, Indoor Use

The Trek Sport is based on the success and versatility of the KSO. Designed for the outdoor enthusiast. The upper has abrasion resistant material with great breathability and the sole has extra traction to suit a variety of terrains

V-ALPHA

Available for men and women.

Great For: Outdoor Activity, Trails, Running, General Indoor Use, Parkour, Boulder Running

The V-Alpha joined the line-up in 2018 and is part of Vibrams Max Feel product range. Offering fantastic ground feel and performance due to the 3mm MegGrip compound on the sole and a 2mm insole. The upper is made from a 50/50 mix of wool and synthetics for better temperature regulation.

V-AQUA

Available for men and women.

Great For: Water Activity, Outdoor Activity, Kayaking, Canoeing

As with the V-Alpha, the V-Aqua is part of the Vibram Max Feel range and comes with the 3mm MegaGrip compound. The V-Aqua is a light, flexible show. Its main defining feature is the 2mm perforations throughout the sole, these allow water to move through the show, and come out the sole, allowing for rapid drying and comfort. The snug fitting upper uses Velcro straps for a secure fit.

V-Run

Available for men and women.

Great For: Road Running, Long Distance Running, Treadmill

This is THE Vibram running shoe. Lightweight and with a special Vibram compound on the sole offering great grip and endurance and give a great minimalist experience. The upper has a secure speed lace fastening system and is a breathable material. Known as the Bikila Evo in previous years.

V-Soul

Available for women.

Great For: Yoga, Pilates, Indoor Fitness, Light Gym Use, Leisure and Casual

The V-Soul is part of Vibram MaxFeel product range so offers excellent ground feel and a true barefoot and minimalist feel. The open foot design looks and feels great and is adjustable for a secure fit.

V-Trail

Available for men and women.

Great For: Trail Running, Outdoor Activity, Leisure and Casual, Rough Terrains

Recently updated with the V-Trail 2.0, these are the perfect trail running Vibrams. Good for all terrains thanks to the 3D Cocoon weave mesh in the sole, which helps absorb impacts or rocks and rougher ground. They have the Vibram MegaGrip compound for durability and grip in wet and dry conditions.

V-Train

Available for men and women.

Great For: Gym Use, Indoor Fitness, Crossfit

The V-Train is a brilliant gym shoe. The sole is designed to allow quick and rapid movements, aid rope climbing and more. Comes with the XS Trek Vibram sole compound so is also great outdoors. The upper is a soft feel material and fastened with a hook and loop system to make sure it does not come loose.

V-TREK

Available for men and women.

Great For: Hiking, Trekking, Outdoor Use, Travelling, Leisure and Casual

With Vibrams 4mm MegaGrip outsole which offers the ultimate grip in wet and dry conditions, the V-Trek is an outdoor essential. The 4mm MidSole adds cushioning, making it one of the most comfortable Vibram shoes. The upper is a 50./50 blend of Wool and Synthetic, similar the to V-Alpha. The is the replacement for the extremely popular Trek Ascent, and lives up to it well. The V-Trek come further up the ankle than other Vibrams, giving a little extra support and making a great hiking shoe.

V-Trek Insulated

Available for men and women.

Great For: Hiking, Trekking, Outdoor Use, Travelling, Leisure and Casual, Snow and Icy Conditions

Expanding on the V-Trek, these are the insulated versions. There are several key difference between the two, the main one being that they have an all round fleece lining for warmth. They also have a non-absorbent water shedding outer to help in colder and wetter conditions. They have a protective film on top and between the toes for added protection. The other difference is the sole, they use the ICTREK compound which is a softer compound and excellent on cold, icy or snow covered surfaces. The V-Trek Insulated come further up the ankle than other Vibrams, giving a little extra support and making a great hiking shoe.

VI-B

Available for women only.

Great For: Light Gym Work, Leisure, Yoga, Pilates

Inspired by ballet flats, the VI-B is new for 2014. Built on the maxi-feel sole, the VI-B is very minimalist and nimble, providing great ground feel that will serve you well in the gym and for leisure use.

VI-S

Available for women only.

Great For: Leisure and Casual, Yoga, Pilates

With the bottom part inspired by the KSO EVO and the top taking the form of a sandal, the VI-S are a great casual and fashion shoe from Vibram. They look great, and thanks to the functional sole, feel great.

As you can see, Vibram have a rather big range now, which is fantastic news for you as you have more choice. Go back to 2017 and the range was around half the size! Hopefully our Vibram FiveFingers A-Z overview helped you in your decision. If you need anymore advice, just call, chat or email! We are all runners here, and always happy to help!

Check Out OUR VIBRAM FIVEFINGER Range

Feetus are a barefoot/minimalist running specialist. We stock a wide range of Vibrams that cover all activities from gym and cross-fit all the way through to trekking and water-sports.

The 2017 Vibram FiveFingers Range – Sneak Peak #1

An Introduction to 2017’s Vibram FiveFingers

Over the next couple of days, we will be going through the 2016 Vibram range, giving you the low down on the new models, the new colours, as well as some of the core Vibram product range.

On Today’s post, we will be going through the Vibram core product range (sorry guys, check back over the weekend for a sneak peak at the V-Train and V-Trail 😉 ), and taking a look at some of the new colours available in these FiveFingers. So, without further ado…

 

feetus-kso-evo-lavender-purpleThe KSO EVO

Without a doubt one of the best selling Vibram FiveFingers shoe. It is an incredible shoe, versatile, good looking, comfortable and is just a perfect all rounder.

In the Spring/Summer 2017 Vibram range, we are very happy to announce 1 new colours to the KSO EVO range. However, sorry to say Guys, but it is on the Womens range only. We have the Lavender/Purple.

There has been no change to the spec of the KSO EVO, and why would there be? It is perfect as it is!

 

 

 

 

feetus-v-run-oysterThe V-Run

The Vibram shoe that evolved from the brilliant Bikila Evo. Redesigned with a perforates upper for better ventilation and still has the quick fasten pull tab for the laces. These are a fantastic road running shoe, and have proven extremely popular in 2016. Off the back of that, we will be adding an additional colour to our range, for the men this time, the Oyster.

Much in the same way as the KSO EVO, the spec of the Vibram FiveFingers V-Run has remained consistent, and we will still be including the current range of colours in the range.

 

 

 

feetus-trek-ascent-deep-pondThe Trek Ascent

What a fantastic shoe this is. The number 1 selling Vibram FiveFinger shoe in the UK last year. The Trek Ascent has been popular amongst runners as much as hikers, and is a tough shoe.

The 2017 range sees an additional colour added to the range, the Deep Pond. The Vibram FiveFingers Trek Ascent will still feature the MEGAGRIP sole, which will keep you grounded no-matter the terrain.

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.

 

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.

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.