Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II

Detailed Review

Plenty of Primus Lite Reviews mentioned that the shoe didn’t have that long of a shelf-life as expected. Despite it having light materials, many reviewers thought that they won’t have to deal with early signs of wear and tear given the price. The Primus Lite II aims to address these issues in the first version with design and reinforcement updates.

Specs

The upper of the Primus Lite II is made up of mesh made from recycled PET plastic. Upon closer inspection, runners will be able to see the skin on their feet from the upper because it is not lined. This greatly helps with the breathability of the shoe and air circulation within it. With the upper made up of mainly plastic, most Primus Lite Vivobarefoot III users appreciate the fact that the shoe is vegan-friendly.

Inside, a removable cork insole with Bloom Algae Foam technology was integrated. The Primus Lite II, as well as the Barefoot Primus Lite – the first version, is special because there’s no midsole. The outer sole is the structure that serves as the platform for the foot. The addition of the Bloom Foam insert serves as light cushioning that’s naturally antibacterial to offer freshness.

At 3mm, the rubber outsole also follows the shape of the foot, just like the rest of the shoe. While it caters to the natural splaying of the toes, it’s also the kind of rubber that’s light and flexible but still protective. It’s not too thick that the sensory experience users need is impeded.

Compared to the Primus Lite I, this newer version has a bit more padding just above the heel, as observed by some Primus Lite II Reviews. Not only does it deliver some comfort to the wearer but it also serves as a stabilizing structure so the heel isn’t moving around as much.

Performance

In terms of performance, Primus Lite Mens Reviews say that their pair is great for weight lifting or weight training since it has a firm base. Generally speaking, both male and female users were able to use their Primus Lite II for running, walking/strolling, and other forms of training on flat surfaces because of its responsiveness and good ground feedback.

Within, the insole is very comfortable as observed by almost all users. Despite the Primus Lite II not having a midsole and only minimal cushioning, the shoe was able to hold up for a reasonable period of time without the wearer feeling pain on the legs or feet.

Sizing

The sizing for the Primus Lite II is subjective just like the sizing of the newer version, the Primus Lite III, and the older version the Primus Lite. New users of barefoot shoes might find the second version of the Barefoot Primus Lite to be too big or too wide. Those who have been wearing barefoot shoes for some time, on the other hand, say that the fit is true to size. Most reviews suggest that it’s best to actually fit the shoe before making a purchase.

Fit

There’s enough room in the toebox of the Primus Lite III for the toes to splay naturally while running or walking. Reviewers who were just starting out with wearing barefoot shoes found the fit on the front of the shoe to be roomier but it’s important to take note that barefoot shoes are designed this way. 

Primus Lite VS Primus Lite II VS Primus Lite III

Not a lot of updates were made in the making of the Primus Lite II. Most of the reviewers of the Primus Lite Vivobarefoot mention that one of their main concerns is durability. On the second version of the shoe model, the upper is updated with more durable overlays and a more padded heel. If you would like to read more about the Primus Lite, check out the review here.

There are other similar Vivobarefoot shoe models that you can check out as well such as the Stealth II. The features are very similar but the upper is of a different design – a honeycomb pattern with reflective properties.

On the other hand, the newer version of the series, the Primus Lite III, has lesser materials compared to this second version, contributing to its lightness. Only small tweaks were made to the third version but it’s a good push towards the brand’s effort to reduce the carbon footprint it makes while manufacturing barefoot shoes.

Final call

The Primus Lite II is well-loved because of how versatile it can be in terms of use. A good number of users have utilized their pair for walking, running, working out at the gym, lifting weights, and even traveling. Because of its minimalist design, some have partnered their pair with casual outfits, as well as athletic and athleisure wear.

Although the traction on more tricky surfaces, such as loose dirt or wet surfaces, isn’t as reliable. The outsole of the Primus Lite II works perfectly well on common and flat surfaces such as paved roads.

Overall, the shoe was found to be comfortable, equipped with the right features to deliver a barefoot experience that many are seeking.