Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit review: the minimalist, sustainable shoe brand has developed a barely-there gym shoe that’s primed for lifting…

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Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit

BUY IT NOW:

$179.55 / £140, vivobarefoot.com

Pros:

  • Wide, flat base is perfect for heavy weight lifting
  • Knit upper ensures maximum ankle mobility
  • Comfortable sock-like fit
  • Made from recycled materials

Cons:

  • Ultra-minimalist design won’t be cushioned enough for some
  • Beginners are likely to be better off with a more forgiving trainer

Fit: 4.5/5
Comfort: 4/5
Performance: 4.5/5
OVERALL: 4.5/5

Vivobarefoot’s brand mission is all about minimalist footwear that allows your feet to work as nature intended. That means toes splayed out wide, the ankle and heel free to move, and soles in maximum contact with the ground.

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That natural feel is aligned with sustainability: with each shoe treading lightly on the planet thanks to the use of recycled plastics and bio-based materials.

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit features

With Vivobarefoot’s latest minimalist creation, the Primus Lite Knit, all the usual brand hallmarks are in place: wide toe box, ultra-thin soles and a flexible upper for full ankle mobility. All of which makes for an outstanding weight lifting shoe – if your feet can handle it.

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Lifting heavy weights off the floor is best done in flat shoes that allow you to drive through your heels, and the Primus Lite Knit definitely ticks that box. Other compound strength exercises, particularly squats, require mobility in the ankles if you want to reach full range of motion – which, unlike many built-up trainers, this shoe also allows for.

However, there’s no denying this level of minimalism takes a fair bit of getting used to for the unaccustomed. And that bedding-in period is increased dramatically if you intend to run in a pair of these.

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Complete beginners might be better off building up their strength and fitness in a pair of more conventional kicks, before focusing on their feet. But if you’re willing to see out a bit of initial discomfort – or at least unfamiliar feeling – this shoe is an excellent option for hitting the gym floor.