I've got 4 different vibram models and have had several different barefoot brands and models over the years. The v treks are the most comfortable. i love them
The V-Trek are possibly my favourite VFF shoe and I own two pairs to switch out if one gets wet. I have the black/black ones - wish I could find the black/gum but alas none in my size. They’re super comfortable and I like a bit more padding for where I walk on stony tracks. I did go up one size as I wanted more room in the toe pockets for wearing my Injinjis. The kangaroo leather KSO Trek is also a good shoe with a more rugged sole. I’ve an ancient pair that’s over 10 years old in those. That’s the thing about quality Andrew, it lasts!
I know, I keep telling Vibram to brink the black/gum color back. Congrats on your decade old KSO's, Anni! I'll be there with my V-Trek's in 2027. I need to try some of their leather one's, tho!
I just love these shoes! I have the V-Run, V-Trail, V-Train, but these babies are the most versatile of the bunch. I also have the V-Trek Ascent Insulated, for winter times, and they are perfect when it's chilly, plus are more cushioned. The 9nly cons, as for all the Vibram's, is that they don't make waterproof models, although all their customers keep asking for them 🤷
I’ve got some v-treks on their way through the mail. I finally decided to try the “weird looking” shoe. I liked trying the vivo Magna lite, but it just ended up being too much shoe for versatile road/trail runs. And it was while I was one a long run in them, that I said to myself, “hell, I’m just gonna order the vibrams.” Excited to try them out. I’ll update you soon. That said, I just wish all barefoot shoe brands had the website/customer service that vivobarefoot has. Thanks for another great and informative vid, my dude!
Yes!!!!! I'm so hyped for you, ha. The V-Trek is an excellent pick for roads, trails, and pretty much everything else, unless it's cold and wet. You guys still soaking up the sun in Florida? It's been miserable here, but I think the end is near. Got a nice sunny trail run in this AM.
@@jcookie9448 hey there! They’re pretty amazing. I’ve had a few runs in them on trail. They’re the lightest shoe I’ve ever worn. I’ve worn vivobarefoots for 2 years for walking, running, asphalt, and trail so the barefootness is not new to me or my legs and feet. this past weekend, my nightmare came true when I ran a 5k and I answered a strangers question about them. I’m now the guy that wears vibrams and raves about them. And I’m cool with that now. Because running is that much more grounding and fun! A few things to note: 1. I first ordered a size too big, because I measured and seemed to be on the cusp, and then I didn’t know if they were big or not, because these are my first pair of VFF and I didn’t know what they should feel like. Because I was cinching the “too big size” I noticed the upper putting weird pressure on my Achilles. My advice would be to order two sizes if unsure and just return one pair. When I put on the smaller size, I immediately knew they were the right fit! Like a glove. My heal went all the way back, my toes had enough room, and I didn’t need to lace them as tight. 2. The most remarkable thing about them is yes the toe pockets, but more specifically the toe crotches. They keep your foot stationary and it is so awesome! You are one with the shoe. 3. I’m impressed with the sole, but I will say it’s very sensitive. Which I like. But a random gravel rock is still gonna be uncomfortable if you land on it funny. 4. I ran the first few times with Injinji socks in case of any hotspots. I did have one seam near my arch that was a little annoying when I didn’t wear the socks. But that’s not conclusive. Hope that helps! And thanks again, Andrew! -a
That is encouraging to hear that they are so durable! I have started with the Vibram El-X model, which to my knowledge, is their thinnest model. I love them, BUT I am on my second pair and they only last me about 6 months before I wear out the tread and get literal holes on the heel and big toe. When I called Vibram they advised me that the El-X is meant to be more of a casual slip on. Hopefully getting some V-Treks will be better for my everyday wear that includes frequent walks and some jogging on asphalt.
The V-Trek is indeed tougher, but if you're wearing out Vibram soles that fast, I suspect that you've got a bit of scuffing or twisting going on in your stride. Simply rolling smoothly down creates very little friction, so I'd pay attention to your feet the next time you go out and see if there's anything going on that might be rubbing the soles down.
Hey Andrew, was wondering about the vtreks. I just received mine today. And went for a short walk with them with a little incline and decline involved. So far after just one use they feel incredible. And tomorrow i will be wearing them for a 5 hour shift at work to try them out there and for a longer time. What id love some insight on...is how long it took to adjust to them for you. Specifically, your toes. They feel incredible like i said, the only issue i could forsee is with my pinky toes. My other toes did not mind the spacing at all so far. But the pinky toes were definitely feeling it. I mean it makes sense because they are the most squished toe for most people. But was wondering if you had a similar issue at first. And if so, how long did it take for the spacing of the toes to more manageable. Also, i know either way they will take getting used to. Because the only barefoot shoes i wear at the moment are the vivobarefoot lite knit (which are the best shoe ive ever worn so far). Anyway, sorry for the long essay. Would love any help or advice you may have with my vibram vtrek journey going forward.
Yep, my pinky toe is crooked from wearing pointy shoes and cleats as a kid, so toe shoes def forced them to be more straight, which created some aching at first. Just wear them as much as feels comfortable at first and switch back to other shoes when needed-you might want to bring some to your shift just in case. It took maybe two weeks for my toes to fully adjust, but it's different for everyone. Happy VIbraming out there! (:
Catching up with your videos now… Just got back to the states… I remember when the five fingers was all that we had in the zero drop community. Now the market is flooded with great options. You guys go back to the basics. I definitely think we have more articulation with five fingers.Michelin and vibram make the best outsoles
Yea, the V-Trek's are still my all-time fav shoes after seven years, which is really impressive, considering how many options there are now. If only they had waterproof ones...I'd never wear anything else, ha.
Are your V-Treks the insulated variety? I believe they have a with and without. I live in Florida and am interested in something durable that won't be too stifling during the summer.
No, the insulated ones are kind of useless, IMO, because they're not water resistant, which is impractical for like 95% of the days when it's cold. These V-Trek's are much cooler in summer and still warm in colder weather, as long as it's not wet.
I bought the new spyridon a few days ago,which are lighter and cooler for summer, but if I have to pick only one, that would be the V-trek, they are just the most all terrain Vibram, they are probably not best in one aspect except trekking, but you can defend yourself in everything.
Looking for a all around barefoot shoe, mainly prioritizing running/ fitness. Also want the thinnest barefoot experience i can have. I like the five fingers idea and these look pretty good, but i wondering about how much sole there is. They look pretty bulky compared to the vivo primus lite, so i wanted your opinion if youd recommend these for me, or if you know of a thinner running shoe that vibram has thats also the five finger style? Thanks in advance!
The V-Trek is primarily for trails, although because of the added flex from the separate toes it also works just as well as the Primus Lite's for road running. They're actually both the same thickness (4mm), despite appearances. The KSO ruclips.net/video/T_HewUxQLK8/видео.html (Hemp or synth for summer) or the V-Alpha ruclips.net/video/YXKwgWkkTZk/видео.html would be even lighter and more flexible than the Primus Lite.
@@AndrewFolts okay cool, so now I'm looking between the KSO eco wool and the alphas. The eco wool I can get with your referral link for 85 dollars (35 percent off) and the alphas for 106. Both prices are doable, the eco wool entices me a little more however. What do you think? My main priorities are road running/fitness but I do take fitness test in grass sometimes(army) and there are mornings when it is wet and slippery. Would you recommend the alphas for that case or would the KSO eco wool do?
@@isaiahmonk8148 Sounds like the V-Alpha would be the best pick, because it has a better tread for wet terrain and although not water-resistant it is thinner, so it dries out faster and is easier to clean.
@@User-Tal1951 I've done a tone of road running with mine and they work fine, since the tread has lots of flat surface area. Still going after seven years. That said, like any shoe, the key is to avoid twisting or scuffing, which accounts for probably 90% of the wear.
Haven't tried them, but generally I don't like synthetic materials , I find them sweaty and hot. Something like the Vivo Gobi boot will be a lot more comfortable and versatile. ruclips.net/video/XWoAcEWnlKk/видео.html Or Vibram's, like the V-Trek with wool or hemp uppers.
Actually neoprene dries out faster than wool, since it doesn't really absorb much water, although wool is still better from a smell perspective, because it's antimicrobial.
Andrew my friend: I implore you - please review the Peluva Strand. Just over 7 oz and 9 mm of stack. Ideal alternative to the VFF V-Run with a pliable knit upper. I typically wear an EU 43 or 44 on VFF’s but I’d recommend 1/2 size larger on Peluva. I have a US 10.5 and love it. Apart from the V-Alpha, KSO ECO, and V-Trek, it may prove your favorite asphalt/concrete long-distance running shoe.
Unfortunately, it's a cushioned shoe similar to the Altra Escalante, which is what gave me plantar fasciitis originally. There's just no way I'd ever go back after transitioning to barefoot shoes, they feel too good!
I can appreciate that, but the cushion is a bit illusory in that the rubber underfoot feels hard and sturdy and it is more than half the stack height of the Escalante. That said, in the sandal realm, have you ever reviewed the Shamma Warrior or Ibex? The Ibex has the Zegama outsole (like the Softstar Switchback) and phenomenal grip and is really aesthetically appealing with the leather.
@@thestkguru Yea, I have reviewed the Warrior's; ruclips.net/video/wYYkNWxwUUw/видео.html They're great technical trail sandals, although the posts are hard and require some DIY padding.
Nice! I’ll definitely check out the review. Their Ibex model is an ideal trail sandal. The Freet Keld has an appealing aesthetic as well (for a closed toe trail runner), Finally, Bohempia makes some great casual shoes and trainers as an alternative to Feelgrounds with a wide option. If you’re ever in South Florida, look me up and we can hang or if I’m ever in upstate NY, I’ll hit you up my friend.
I've been looking for the black gum ones in size 43 for a YEAR now. The ones you have basically since the v treks I have ATM are insulated and extremely old since before the pull tag on the back which means they are starting to fall apart 😬
I agree the vtrek are the best of the barefoot 5 finger shoes but I've had major delamination on the sole and torn the soft section out of the middle of the sole in 6 months. I use them for everything. It would be great to have a model with stone protection as well as these are tough to use when moving quickly carrying any weight over 30 lbs where you have to maximize speed rather than the perfect running path.
Some people have said the same, although mine are still near perfect after seven years, so I wonder if it's just a manufacturing defect in those cases? You can try a little shoe glue: amzn.to/3PBAdyO
I've got 4 different vibram models and have had several different barefoot brands and models over the years. The v treks are the most comfortable. i love them
Yea, they really are the best overall. If they came up with a decently water resistant version, I'd probably never wear anything else.
@@AndrewFolts we just need Injinji to make a waterproof toe sock and we are sorted!
I would love to try mine, if they ever show up in the mail. The company is disorganized and has no customer service.
@@kellenpickell7246That’s a shame. I bought mine from Barefoot inc. in Australia and the service is awesome. They will be worth the wait.
*Barefoot Trail Shoes* (referral links)
all barefoot trail shoes - - - bit.ly/3RBllQd
vibram v-trek - - - - - - - - - - - bit.ly/3uvrLss
vibram v-alpha - - - - - - - - - ruclips.net/video/YXKwgWkkTZk/видео.html
vibram v-neop - - - - - - - - - - ruclips.net/video/LqZ6-sqT7HA/видео.html
injinji toe socks - - - - - - - - - ruclips.net/video/_e6BC2vfl4w/видео.html
*Best Barefootwear* (referral links)
casual shoes - - - bit.ly/3Smg8gx
road shoes - - - - - bit.ly/48XEOBz
trail shoes - - - - - bit.ly/4250J7B
trek boots - - - - - - bit.ly/3SCgP5V
winter boots - - - - bit.ly/3RRbI0X
sandals - - - - - - - - bit.ly/4b2tfLu
slippers - - - - - - - - bit.ly/3tNYvNz
website - - - - - - - - www.barefootwear.org
The V-Trek are possibly my favourite VFF shoe and I own two pairs to switch out if one gets wet. I have the black/black ones - wish I could find the black/gum but alas none in my size. They’re super comfortable and I like a bit more padding for where I walk on stony tracks. I did go up one size as I wanted more room in the toe pockets for wearing my Injinjis. The kangaroo leather KSO Trek is also a good shoe with a more rugged sole. I’ve an ancient pair that’s over 10 years old in those. That’s the thing about quality Andrew, it lasts!
I know, I keep telling Vibram to brink the black/gum color back. Congrats on your decade old KSO's, Anni! I'll be there with my V-Trek's in 2027. I need to try some of their leather one's, tho!
I just love these shoes! I have the V-Run, V-Trail, V-Train, but these babies are the most versatile of the bunch. I also have the V-Trek Ascent Insulated, for winter times, and they are perfect when it's chilly, plus are more cushioned. The 9nly cons, as for all the Vibram's, is that they don't make waterproof models, although all their customers keep asking for them 🤷
I've talked to my Vibram rep about this and he says they keep trying every year, so there's hope. (:
I’ve got some v-treks on their way through the mail. I finally decided to try the “weird looking” shoe. I liked trying the vivo Magna lite, but it just ended up being too much shoe for versatile road/trail runs. And it was while I was one a long run in them, that I said to myself, “hell, I’m just gonna order the vibrams.” Excited to try them out. I’ll update you soon. That said, I just wish all barefoot shoe brands had the website/customer service that vivobarefoot has. Thanks for another great and informative vid, my dude!
Yes!!!!! I'm so hyped for you, ha. The V-Trek is an excellent pick for roads, trails, and pretty much everything else, unless it's cold and wet. You guys still soaking up the sun in Florida? It's been miserable here, but I think the end is near. Got a nice sunny trail run in this AM.
Update please! How did they fit/feel?
@@jcookie9448 hey there! They’re pretty amazing. I’ve had a few runs in them on trail. They’re the lightest shoe I’ve ever worn. I’ve worn vivobarefoots for 2 years for walking, running, asphalt, and trail so the barefootness is not new to me or my legs and feet. this past weekend, my nightmare came true when I ran a 5k and I answered a strangers question about them. I’m now the guy that wears vibrams and raves about them. And I’m cool with that now. Because running is that much more grounding and fun!
A few things to note:
1. I first ordered a size too big, because I measured and seemed to be on the cusp, and then I didn’t know if they were big or not, because these are my first pair of VFF and I didn’t know what they should feel like. Because I was cinching the “too big size” I noticed the upper putting weird pressure on my Achilles. My advice would be to order two sizes if unsure and just return one pair. When I put on the smaller size, I immediately knew they were the right fit! Like a glove. My heal went all the way back, my toes had enough room, and I didn’t need to lace them as tight.
2. The most remarkable thing about them is yes the toe pockets, but more specifically the toe crotches. They keep your foot stationary and it is so awesome! You are one with the shoe.
3. I’m impressed with the sole, but I will say it’s very sensitive. Which I like. But a random gravel rock is still gonna be uncomfortable if you land on it funny.
4. I ran the first few times with Injinji socks in case of any hotspots. I did have one seam near my arch that was a little annoying when I didn’t wear the socks. But that’s not conclusive.
Hope that helps! And thanks again, Andrew!
-a
That is encouraging to hear that they are so durable!
I have started with the Vibram El-X model, which to my knowledge, is their thinnest model. I love them, BUT I am on my second pair and they only last me about 6 months before I wear out the tread and get literal holes on the heel and big toe.
When I called Vibram they advised me that the El-X is meant to be more of a casual slip on. Hopefully getting some V-Treks will be better for my everyday wear that includes frequent walks and some jogging on asphalt.
The V-Trek is indeed tougher, but if you're wearing out Vibram soles that fast, I suspect that you've got a bit of scuffing or twisting going on in your stride. Simply rolling smoothly down creates very little friction, so I'd pay attention to your feet the next time you go out and see if there's anything going on that might be rubbing the soles down.
Hey Andrew, was wondering about the vtreks. I just received mine today. And went for a short walk with them with a little incline and decline involved. So far after just one use they feel incredible. And tomorrow i will be wearing them for a 5 hour shift at work to try them out there and for a longer time. What id love some insight on...is how long it took to adjust to them for you. Specifically, your toes. They feel incredible like i said, the only issue i could forsee is with my pinky toes. My other toes did not mind the spacing at all so far. But the pinky toes were definitely feeling it. I mean it makes sense because they are the most squished toe for most people. But was wondering if you had a similar issue at first. And if so, how long did it take for the spacing of the toes to more manageable. Also, i know either way they will take getting used to. Because the only barefoot shoes i wear at the moment are the vivobarefoot lite knit (which are the best shoe ive ever worn so far). Anyway, sorry for the long essay. Would love any help or advice you may have with my vibram vtrek journey going forward.
Yep, my pinky toe is crooked from wearing pointy shoes and cleats as a kid, so toe shoes def forced them to be more straight, which created some aching at first. Just wear them as much as feels comfortable at first and switch back to other shoes when needed-you might want to bring some to your shift just in case. It took maybe two weeks for my toes to fully adjust, but it's different for everyone. Happy VIbraming out there! (:
Thanks dude! @@AndrewFolts
Catching up with your videos now… Just got back to the states… I remember when the five fingers was all that we had in the zero drop community. Now the market is flooded with great options. You guys go back to the basics. I definitely think we have more articulation with five fingers.Michelin and vibram make the best outsoles
Yea, the V-Trek's are still my all-time fav shoes after seven years, which is really impressive, considering how many options there are now. If only they had waterproof ones...I'd never wear anything else, ha.
Are your V-Treks the insulated variety? I believe they have a with and without.
I live in Florida and am interested in something durable that won't be too stifling during the summer.
No, the insulated ones are kind of useless, IMO, because they're not water resistant, which is impractical for like 95% of the days when it's cold. These V-Trek's are much cooler in summer and still warm in colder weather, as long as it's not wet.
I bought the new spyridon a few days ago,which are lighter and cooler for summer, but if I have to pick only one, that would be the V-trek, they are just the most all terrain Vibram, they are probably not best in one aspect except trekking, but you can defend yourself in everything.
Yea, you really can't beat the versatility of the V-Trek. Would be cool if they made a V-Trek with the V-Alpha sole!
Looking for a all around barefoot shoe, mainly prioritizing running/ fitness. Also want the thinnest barefoot experience i can have. I like the five fingers idea and these look pretty good, but i wondering about how much sole there is. They look pretty bulky compared to the vivo primus lite, so i wanted your opinion if youd recommend these for me, or if you know of a thinner running shoe that vibram has thats also the five finger style? Thanks in advance!
Might just wind up getting the alphas lol
The V-Trek is primarily for trails, although because of the added flex from the separate toes it also works just as well as the Primus Lite's for road running. They're actually both the same thickness (4mm), despite appearances. The KSO ruclips.net/video/T_HewUxQLK8/видео.html (Hemp or synth for summer) or the V-Alpha ruclips.net/video/YXKwgWkkTZk/видео.html would be even lighter and more flexible than the Primus Lite.
@@AndrewFolts okay cool, so now I'm looking between the KSO eco wool and the alphas. The eco wool I can get with your referral link for 85 dollars (35 percent off) and the alphas for 106. Both prices are doable, the eco wool entices me a little more however. What do you think? My main priorities are road running/fitness but I do take fitness test in grass sometimes(army) and there are mornings when it is wet and slippery. Would you recommend the alphas for that case or would the KSO eco wool do?
@@isaiahmonk8148 Sounds like the V-Alpha would be the best pick, because it has a better tread for wet terrain and although not water-resistant it is thinner, so it dries out faster and is easier to clean.
I bought KSO evo a few weeks ago and it was so good i bought the v neop
Right on! I'm really excited to go on some wet train runs and hikes with the V-NEOP this summer. It was mad fun for tromping through swampy terrain.
My v trek arrived yesterday. Looking forward for testing 😁
Ooh, yes!!! My all time fav's. Have fun out there!
It's not recommended to use a lot on roads, right? Might damage the sole?
@@User-Tal1951 I've done a tone of road running with mine and they work fine, since the tread has lots of flat surface area. Still going after seven years. That said, like any shoe, the key is to avoid twisting or scuffing, which accounts for probably 90% of the wear.
I love your content. This comment is to boost the youtube algorithm.
Glad you're digging the vids, Pablo. Thanks for the boost!
do you have thoughts on the vibram furoshiki shoes?
Haven't tried them, but generally I don't like synthetic materials , I find them sweaty and hot. Something like the Vivo Gobi boot will be a lot more comfortable and versatile. ruclips.net/video/XWoAcEWnlKk/видео.html Or Vibram's, like the V-Trek with wool or hemp uppers.
Does the neoprene get funky faster? I can imagine they are tougher to dry out..
Actually neoprene dries out faster than wool, since it doesn't really absorb much water, although wool is still better from a smell perspective, because it's antimicrobial.
I agree, my favorite too.
It's a classic, for sure.
Andrew my friend: I implore you - please review the Peluva Strand. Just over 7 oz and 9 mm of stack. Ideal alternative to the VFF V-Run with a pliable knit upper. I typically wear an EU 43 or 44 on VFF’s but I’d recommend 1/2 size larger on Peluva. I have a US 10.5 and love it. Apart from the V-Alpha, KSO ECO, and V-Trek, it may prove your favorite asphalt/concrete long-distance running shoe.
Unfortunately, it's a cushioned shoe similar to the Altra Escalante, which is what gave me plantar fasciitis originally. There's just no way I'd ever go back after transitioning to barefoot shoes, they feel too good!
I can appreciate that, but the cushion is a bit illusory in that the rubber underfoot feels hard and sturdy and it is more than half the stack height of the Escalante. That said, in the sandal realm, have you ever reviewed the Shamma Warrior or Ibex? The Ibex has the Zegama outsole (like the Softstar Switchback) and phenomenal grip and is really aesthetically appealing with the leather.
@@thestkguru Yea, I have reviewed the Warrior's; ruclips.net/video/wYYkNWxwUUw/видео.html They're great technical trail sandals, although the posts are hard and require some DIY padding.
Nice! I’ll definitely check out the review. Their Ibex model is an ideal trail sandal. The Freet Keld has an appealing aesthetic as well (for a closed toe trail runner), Finally, Bohempia makes some great casual shoes and trainers as an alternative to Feelgrounds with a wide option. If you’re ever in South Florida, look me up and we can hang or if I’m ever in upstate NY, I’ll hit you up my friend.
I've been looking for the black gum ones in size 43 for a YEAR now. The ones you have basically since the v treks I have ATM are insulated and extremely old since before the pull tag on the back which means they are starting to fall apart 😬
Yea, I keep telling Vibram to rerelease them. The demand is so high. Maybe they could do a special Foltsy collab version, ha!
@@AndrewFolts that would be awesome
I agree the vtrek are the best of the barefoot 5 finger shoes but I've had major delamination on the sole and torn the soft section out of the middle of the sole in 6 months. I use them for everything. It would be great to have a model with stone protection as well as these are tough to use when moving quickly carrying any weight over 30 lbs where you have to maximize speed rather than the perfect running path.
Some people have said the same, although mine are still near perfect after seven years, so I wonder if it's just a manufacturing defect in those cases? You can try a little shoe glue: amzn.to/3PBAdyO
I thought the alphas are better than the v-trek?
The V-Trek's are the best hiking shoes and the V-Alpha's are the best trail running shoes, but they're both fantastic and very similar.
Z-Trek?
V-Trek.
Thank god it was just the title I mixed up and not the actual video. Been reviewing too many barefoot shoes lately, ha.