Vivobarefoot Evo II SKU: #7836533

Justin G

from San Francisco, CA

After reading "Born to Run" I decided to give the "barefoot" running movement a try. I have always hated running as I tend to get cramps in my feet, calves, and pain in my knees almost immediately into any run or jog wearing "traditional" athletic shoes. I have tried nearly every major brand, inserts, etc, to no avail. The Vivobarefoot Evo II has completely changed my perspective on running. Wearing these for the first few times is like learning to run all over again. I have less pain and cramping, and I can run longer distances than I was able to with my old running shoes. I would highly recommend The Vivobarefoot Evo shoes to anyone who walks, jogs, or runs. I will never go back to traditional athletic shoes unless I am using them for casual walking, bike riding, or taking my son to the park.

Rob C

from Chesapeake, Va

These, so far, are the best shoes I've found for running the barefoot; style. At first, they felt a bit loose all around my foot, but that's by design. They let your feet do what they need to without restricting their movement and flexibility. The tongue is very soft and the laces tighten the whole shoe when tugged as all shoes should, but rarely do. When running, I feel like they aren't even there. They protect your feet, and stay out of the way. They are also warmer than I thought they would be. I have ran in 30 degree weather without issue. They're pretty odd looking with a pair of Jeans. I do think they cost too much, but we'll see how long they last, as I've only had them about a month. At this point, they show no signs of wear with over 100 miles on them.

Brands I'd also recommend: Merrell

Nigel D

from Fleetwoood, NC

Only had them a short while, but it is like being barefoot with enough protection to walk anywhere.

Anonymous

from Philadelphia, PA

I have been transitioning to barefoot style running for about a year now starting with the Nike Free Run+ (7mm drop) and then moving to the NB Minimus Trail (4mm drop). I took another leap to a zero drop shoe when I ordered and began wearing the VivoBarefoot Evo II. I wanted a zero drop shoe without the goofy look of the VFF. While I have not logged a ton of miles in the Evo II, I feel like I have found the next best thing to running barefoot without worrying about cuts and bruises on exposed feet. Upon receipt of the shoes, I immediately took the midsoles out as the shoes are designed to run with or without the midsoles. I wanted maximum ground feel and sans midsoles has provided what I was looking for. The Evo II is incredibly flexible and feel much lighter than the listed weight of eight ounces due to the well balanced build. The shoe is comfortable and I have not had any issues with blisters although I have worn the Evo II with socks as it is pretty cold in the Northeast. My use has been on asphalt and concrete but the Evo II is designed as multi-terrain shoes. Based on my experience with this shoe, I can't foresee myself going back to traditional padded running shoes. I am currently training for the upcoming running season (two ten mile races, a half marathon and a full marathon on my schedule) and the Evo II will be my shoe of choice for these races.

Anonymous

from Takoma Park, Maryland

Deciding to make the switch to minimalist running was the easy part, finding the right shoe, well that's a whole different story. I initially experimented with Vibram KSOs but, like many others, I just could not get past their ridiculous look. I know this shouldn't matter, but it did. After experimenting with various other brands, I finally came across Vivobarefoot. The Evo's are the perfect solution for runners who want minimalism without the "toes." While the ground feel is not quite as complete as Vibrams, it is the best I have experienced in a lace-up shoe. My only issues with the Evo thus far is a slight pinch at the base of my big toe when using the shoes without socks and, for whatever reason, the insoles will not stay in place. Overall this is not a major issue as I was planning on removing the insoles eventually. I would definitely recommend these shoes for someone transitioning to minimalism or for barefoot runners who would like some extra protection on the trail or during the winter months.

Brands I'd also recommend: Altra

Mark S

from Houston TX

I've had these shoes for several weeks and have been slowly increasing my distances as recommended by others. At first they were definitely hard on my feet and ankles, but that problem is decreasing. I recommend that your first run be less than a mile, then wait a day to see how sore you are. I have some mild pronation and after extended wear that causes some soreness, which I hope will also go away with time.

Anonymous

from Minneapolis

This is a great walking shoe for long hikes with the dog over a variety of terrains. They are light weight and feel like gloves on your feet. They look cool too!

Brands I'd also recommend: Merrill Barefoot

Jason E

from Denver, CO

Finally! A Barefoot shoe that fits. These are very light and so far I've had good luck getting up to speed on them. They are comfortable and are great for weightlifting as well.