"At some point good running and fast running pull in separate directions" Very clever observation. Thanks for the review, I've been looking into these vs the kso evo 👍
Excellent review, and nice call out on the Bikila tread pattern! The Bikilas were my first pair of FF's, back in July '12. Switched to the Spyridon model after the Bikilas because all of my running is on rocky, technical, loose-over-hard, mountain trails. I also wear the V-Trail 2.0's. My daughter who's now 23, switched to FF's when I did, and after Spyridon's, her favorite became the Trek Ascents. She trained and raced in them in high school until she got too fast for them, and then raced in racing flats in XC, and of course spikes on the track. She and I have run 6 R2R's at the Grand Canyon together in them, and have a few vids posted to the channel. The FF's are a great tool, but do have their limitations, like any tool. In late fall, when the local trails just become too hard packed and rock strewn, we'll switch to Merrell Trail Gloves, Vapor Gloves, and New Balance Minimus 10v1's. We've had a lot of great times running together!
What would you recommend I get for a mix of trail running/ road… I want to primarily run trails with gravel, mud and not be afraid to go through water and stuff. Rocky as well with wet leaves, and not looking to slip. I have seen a lot of people complaining about the vtrail 2.0 so I am hesitant. Also because the sole is much thicker
@@daprophet9899 It's tough to recommend something, because what I like, and what works for me, isn't necessarily going to be liked, or work for some one else. Also, the only time I run road, is to and from a trail head....now, that could be as much as 3 miles, and during one of my runs where I go over 2 local peaks, there's about 5mi of road, in the 13.1mi loop. I literally wear FF's for everything, unless the trail is just ridiculous with exposed loose rocks. For a trail like that, I wear Merrell Trail Gloves, or New Balance Minimus 10v1(which are no longer made, but I find them new on ebay all the time time). When I first tried on the V-Trail 2.0, I didn't like them because the toe sockets were so tight. But I've learned that if you take a pair of FF's out and go for a big run in them, they'll heat up, stretch out, and form to your foot. So that's what I did. It took a couple runs, but then they became easily to put on, and fit great. I really like them, and they've been my tool of choice for 3 Rim-2-Rims and 2 Rim-2-Rivers in the last 2 years.
@@austinado16 ah okay I see you’re right. I would like to do both in them, and honestly the same as you’re doing. Hit a nice trail and hit the pavement as well. More of a hybrid type shoe. I just want to be safe and avoid slips and stuff. I want to try out the vtrails but I’m so hesitant. I might take your advice and just go for it. It’s tough to spend 135 dollars for something that wouldn’t work for me you know? Other models I’m looking into are the vrun and kso evo. I have been running in minimalist shoes for a while, but usually run in boots over the trails.
@@daprophet9899 "boots over the trails"??? I don't understand that. It sounds like you mean that you are running in hiking boots? If you're worried about the V-Trails, you could test them out on the cheap, if you know your actual size in FF's, by purchasing a used pair on ebay/poshmark/mercari. I'm talking about buying a very nice pair, in like new condition. I'm NOT suggesting your buy old wrecked shoes. Regarding the V-run and KSO evo. I would never run in either of those. Those 2 tread designs would not work where I run. That's why I choose models like the Spryidon, Trak Ascent, and V-Trail.....they have a lugged/toothed sole and it's a softer, more grippy rubber. Be careful putting on FF's and just starting to run in them. Transitioning is very important in order to prevent injury.
@@austinado16 yes well I ruck, and I would usually mix some running in with the boots. I have tactical boots that I use as I am training for the military. What surfaces are you running over that wouldn’t work with those models?
I stick with my kso evo. The sole of the v-run is way too thick for me, I lose all the groundfeel and I noticed the I run sloppier and my calves hurt sooner because I completly miss the feedback that regulates the tension in my muscles. But I like the fact that the retro is a bit more comfortable on the foot due to the cushioning
Ha, grinding off any part of the shoe is probably not the go. I get what you’re saying.. the 2mm EVA arch pad is more about protection than support. At the end of the day it’s a case of ‘horses for courses’ if you want the purest barefoot experience when running (without going barefoot) I’d recommend the V-Alpha. They are my go to for all road & trail running.
Does the v-run model have a fairly stiff rear heel? have you tried doing very powerful sprints? does the leg shift inside when running powerfully or is the fixation excellent??
Great review, thanks -- I'm wondering if you would recommend the V-Run or the V-ALPHA for mostly (dry weather) park running--meaning, some tarmac, but mostly grass and dirt paths, with occasional off-roading such as scurrying up some dirt or barkdust inclines? I like the breathable, perforated upper of the V-Run, but you mention that it is primarily for road running ... Thanks
I'm just wondering why they don't put the v-run retro at the first place on the page when it's order by "newest product". However, they put kmd series which are 7 years older.
The relaunched KMD, although based on the original design, have had various running updates in design and material, which is why, even though they are based on a seven-year-old model, they are treated as a new update.
Hello, is the retro wider on the middle part (arch part)? I had the v-run before, although the size in terms of length (toe-to-heel) was right, it gets too tight on the middle part, I guess my foot is fat. Will I have that same problem with the retro?
Hey Max, could you recommend these for road-to-trail running? I have a pair of V-Alphas but was looking for something with a bit more cushioning for some of my days. I was thinking between these and the V-Trail 2.0's. Would you be able to recommend? Thanks!
HM I’d use the Retro for run to trail before the V-Run as the sole will handle it better and offer more grip on soft terrain. The EVA sole in the V-Run offer good cushion on road but would wear faster on trail
hi max, do you have any tips on sizing for the v-run retro? im a 26.5cm or 43 EU, and plan to use socks for running. do i get 43 EU or go up a size? thank you
Hi, sorry for the super slow response, it’s been a crazy end to the year.. 43 should accommodate up to 27cm and the V-Run Retro fit is true to size.. so I think 43 will work well. Worth remembering the fit should be relaxed, with a little room in the (longest) toe (usually the big or second toe) The most common mistake I see is people wearing the VFF too tight.. if they restrict your freedom of movement they’re too tight.
How great would it be to plot each model on a 4,5, or even 6 axis chart to reflect the different capabilities, recommended training environment, etc. I have the v-run KSO and am looking to purchase the v-run or v-alpha. It's dam near impossible to decide without a "try out". 90% of my running is concrete KSOs are mostly for short distance or walking around the neighbourhood. Which would you recommend? ps. I am training for a half marathon in August. Thanks in advance!
Hey Spencer.. it running mostly concrete the v-run or v-run retro would be an obvious choice. Designed with road running in mind, they have a little extra cush.. I do most things in the v-alpha esp trail running and fitness training (and a little road running) but running over 10-15k the v-run will def offer a little more suspension which isn’t a bad thing
Hi max about to purchase my first pair of 5 fingers for running havent run in a while have decided to return using 5fungers or other barefoot type show. would you say the retros would be a better shoe for introduction to 5 finger shoes for running on mostly tarmac mixed with some offroad tracks / paths / fields. Thanks useful video.
Hey TB, that’s awesome you’re getting your first pair of fives. The v-run retro would definitely be a good model to start on, esp if mostly running on tarmac. I’d suggest using toe socks with them to keep the shoes fresh and avoid any rubbing. The most important thing when transitioning to minimal running footwear is allow your body to set the pace and keep strides short, knees soft and steps light and balanced. You’ll do great 👍🏽
Aditya that is an interesting question, they are very different, but I have enjoyed running in both. The retro are primarily a road running/fitness design, with an emphasis on ground feel, while the V-Trek have an outdoor sole design with deeper lugs to ensure traction on soft terrain, while also offering a really cushy ride thanks to the EVA midsole. I have run a 100 km event in the mountains, wearing the V-Trek, and they were fantastic.. the higher ankle did not irritate while running. If I was running a road marathon or road ultra, I would consider it an option just because of how comfortable it is. I can let you into a secret… Next year you may see a design launch that brings together the athletic properties of the V-run retro with the comfort and soul design of the V-Trek. Exciting!
@@julmoon6587 impeccable timing, the new special shoe is on order and will be available approx October exclusively from Barefootinc (I don’t think you’ll find it anywhere else as we effectively commissioned the design) it will be called V-Trek Vita and brings together the slightly cushioned, flexible comfortable outdoor sole of the Trek with the athletic upper of the Retro. We’re only getting a limited number in so.. 🤫 don’t tell anyone.
"At some point good running and fast running pull in separate directions"
Very clever observation. Thanks for the review, I've been looking into these vs the kso evo 👍
finally someone who properly explains what makes VFF are sooo desirable. subscribed.
Excellent review, and nice call out on the Bikila tread pattern! The Bikilas were my first pair of FF's, back in July '12. Switched to the Spyridon model after the Bikilas because all of my running is on rocky, technical, loose-over-hard, mountain trails. I also wear the V-Trail 2.0's. My daughter who's now 23, switched to FF's when I did, and after Spyridon's, her favorite became the Trek Ascents. She trained and raced in them in high school until she got too fast for them, and then raced in racing flats in XC, and of course spikes on the track. She and I have run 6 R2R's at the Grand Canyon together in them, and have a few vids posted to the channel. The FF's are a great tool, but do have their limitations, like any tool. In late fall, when the local trails just become too hard packed and rock strewn, we'll switch to Merrell Trail Gloves, Vapor Gloves, and New Balance Minimus 10v1's. We've had a lot of great times running together!
What would you recommend I get for a mix of trail running/ road… I want to primarily run trails with gravel, mud and not be afraid to go through water and stuff. Rocky as well with wet leaves, and not looking to slip. I have seen a lot of people complaining about the vtrail 2.0 so I am hesitant. Also because the sole is much thicker
@@daprophet9899 It's tough to recommend something, because what I like, and what works for me, isn't necessarily going to be liked, or work for some one else. Also, the only time I run road, is to and from a trail head....now, that could be as much as 3 miles, and during one of my runs where I go over 2 local peaks, there's about 5mi of road, in the 13.1mi loop.
I literally wear FF's for everything, unless the trail is just ridiculous with exposed loose rocks. For a trail like that, I wear Merrell Trail Gloves, or New Balance Minimus 10v1(which are no longer made, but I find them new on ebay all the time time). When I first tried on the V-Trail 2.0, I didn't like them because the toe sockets were so tight. But I've learned that if you take a pair of FF's out and go for a big run in them, they'll heat up, stretch out, and form to your foot. So that's what I did. It took a couple runs, but then they became easily to put on, and fit great. I really like them, and they've been my tool of choice for 3 Rim-2-Rims and 2 Rim-2-Rivers in the last 2 years.
@@austinado16 ah okay I see you’re right. I would like to do both in them, and honestly the same as you’re doing. Hit a nice trail and hit the pavement as well. More of a hybrid type shoe. I just want to be safe and avoid slips and stuff. I want to try out the vtrails but I’m so hesitant. I might take your advice and just go for it. It’s tough to spend 135 dollars for something that wouldn’t work for me you know? Other models I’m looking into are the vrun and kso evo. I have been running in minimalist shoes for a while, but usually run in boots over the trails.
@@daprophet9899 "boots over the trails"??? I don't understand that. It sounds like you mean that you are running in hiking boots?
If you're worried about the V-Trails, you could test them out on the cheap, if you know your actual size in FF's, by purchasing a used pair on ebay/poshmark/mercari. I'm talking about buying a very nice pair, in like new condition. I'm NOT suggesting your buy old wrecked shoes.
Regarding the V-run and KSO evo. I would never run in either of those. Those 2 tread designs would not work where I run. That's why I choose models like the Spryidon, Trak Ascent, and V-Trail.....they have a lugged/toothed sole and it's a softer, more grippy rubber.
Be careful putting on FF's and just starting to run in them. Transitioning is very important in order to prevent injury.
@@austinado16 yes well I ruck, and I would usually mix some running in with the boots. I have tactical boots that I use as I am training for the military. What surfaces are you running over that wouldn’t work with those models?
I stick with my kso evo. The sole of the v-run is way too thick for me, I lose all the groundfeel and I noticed the I run sloppier and my calves hurt sooner because I completly miss the feedback that regulates the tension in my muscles. But I like the fact that the retro is a bit more comfortable on the foot due to the cushioning
You should have more subscribers. Extremely helpful info!
Ha, thanks Sammy, I’m glad it’s useful 👍🏽
This is a great review
Thanks Stephen!
Is there a way to grind out the arch support? Seems like a poor decision to add one to a barefoot shoe.
Ha, grinding off any part of the shoe is probably not the go. I get what you’re saying.. the 2mm EVA arch pad is more about protection than support. At the end of the day it’s a case of ‘horses for courses’ if you want the purest barefoot experience when running (without going barefoot) I’d recommend the V-Alpha. They are my go to for all road & trail running.
I use size 41 in KSO evo and size 42 in Vtrail 2.0 and V-alpha. Which size should I get in the V-run retro?
remember that there is a proper way to put your sock and shoe on so that u maintain the arch
Does the v-run model have a fairly stiff rear heel? have you tried doing very powerful sprints? does the leg shift inside when running powerfully or is the fixation excellent??
These shoes should fit like a glove, so no room left. Just one size larger and your heel can release, which you don;t want
Great review, thanks -- I'm wondering if you would recommend the V-Run or the V-ALPHA for mostly (dry weather) park running--meaning, some tarmac, but mostly grass and dirt paths, with occasional off-roading such as scurrying up some dirt or barkdust inclines? I like the breathable, perforated upper of the V-Run, but you mention that it is primarily for road running ... Thanks
Mostly park I would go the v-alpha.. superior outdoor grip and durability.
Also the longer you wear them (the v-alpha) the more they make sense 👣👌🏽
I'm just wondering why they don't put the v-run retro at the first place on the page when it's order by "newest product". However, they put kmd series which are 7 years older.
The relaunched KMD, although based on the original design, have had various running updates in design and material, which is why, even though they are based on a seven-year-old model, they are treated as a new update.
Hi, i am currently using a eu 43 for v-run. Does the retro fit the same?
Same size would work, but much more relaxed fit.. more room in the forefoot both laterally and vertically
Hello, is the retro wider on the middle part (arch part)? I had the v-run before, although the size in terms of length (toe-to-heel) was right, it gets too tight on the middle part, I guess my foot is fat. Will I have that same problem with the retro?
Yes, it’s definitely a more ‘relaxed’ fit, esp around that middle part of the foot.
Hey Max, could you recommend these for road-to-trail running? I have a pair of V-Alphas but was looking for something with a bit more cushioning for some of my days. I was thinking between these and the V-Trail 2.0's. Would you be able to recommend? Thanks!
HM I’d use the Retro for run to trail before the V-Run as the sole will handle it better and offer more grip on soft terrain. The EVA sole in the V-Run offer good cushion on road but would wear faster on trail
hi max, do you have any tips on sizing for the v-run retro? im a 26.5cm or 43 EU, and plan to use socks for running. do i get 43 EU or go up a size? thank you
Hi, sorry for the super slow response, it’s been a crazy end to the year.. 43 should accommodate up to 27cm and the V-Run Retro fit is true to size.. so I think 43 will work well.
Worth remembering the fit should be relaxed, with a little room in the (longest) toe (usually the big or second toe)
The most common mistake I see is people wearing the VFF too tight.. if they restrict your freedom of movement they’re too tight.
How great would it be to plot each model on a 4,5, or even 6 axis chart to reflect the different capabilities, recommended training environment, etc. I have the v-run KSO and am looking to purchase the v-run or v-alpha. It's dam near impossible to decide without a "try out". 90% of my running is concrete KSOs are mostly for short distance or walking around the neighbourhood. Which would you recommend? ps. I am training for a half marathon in August. Thanks in advance!
Hey Spencer.. it running mostly concrete the v-run or v-run retro would be an obvious choice. Designed with road running in mind, they have a little extra cush.. I do most things in the v-alpha esp trail running and fitness training (and a little road running) but running over 10-15k the v-run will def offer a little more suspension which isn’t a bad thing
@@maxdelacy3701 Thank you. I have decided to order the v-run. Now to wait for my size to come back in stock. All the best!
@@spencerwilliams3385 if you’re in Aus and ordering from Barefootinc, we’ve got v-run stock in the way, so won’t be long!
Hi max about to purchase my first pair of 5 fingers for running havent run in a while have decided to return using 5fungers or other barefoot type show. would you say the retros would be a better shoe for introduction to 5 finger shoes for running on mostly tarmac mixed with some offroad tracks / paths / fields. Thanks useful video.
Hey TB, that’s awesome you’re getting your first pair of fives. The v-run retro would definitely be a good model to start on, esp if mostly running on tarmac. I’d suggest using toe socks with them to keep the shoes fresh and avoid any rubbing. The most important thing when transitioning to minimal running footwear is allow your body to set the pace and keep strides short, knees soft and steps light and balanced. You’ll do great 👍🏽
V-run retro vs v-trek?
Aditya that is an interesting question, they are very different, but I have enjoyed running in both. The retro are primarily a road running/fitness design, with an emphasis on ground feel, while the V-Trek have an outdoor sole design with deeper lugs to ensure traction on soft terrain, while also offering a really cushy ride thanks to the EVA midsole.
I have run a 100 km event in the mountains, wearing the V-Trek, and they were fantastic.. the higher ankle did not irritate while running. If I was running a road marathon or road ultra, I would consider it an option just because of how comfortable it is.
I can let you into a secret… Next year you may see a design launch that brings together the athletic properties of the V-run retro with the comfort and soul design of the V-Trek.
Exciting!
@@maxdelacy3701Hi Max, now the year passed by …. did they release this new special shoe?
@@julmoon6587 impeccable timing, the new special shoe is on order and will be available approx October exclusively from Barefootinc (I don’t think you’ll find it anywhere else as we effectively commissioned the design) it will be called V-Trek Vita and brings together the slightly cushioned, flexible comfortable outdoor sole of the Trek with the athletic upper of the Retro.
We’re only getting a limited number in so.. 🤫 don’t tell anyone.
@@maxdelacy3701 uih, sounds very interesting, but unfortunately I‘m in Germany. Is there a possibility they will be sold in Europe?
v retro are prone to causing knee injuries.