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Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II

4.5 
Based on 560 user reviews

Men's Sizing:

93% "Felt true to size"

Based on 14 user reviews

Women's Sizing:

74% "Felt true to size"

Based on 31 user reviews

With improvements made on the quality, the Primus Lite II is a nimble shoe designed to allow wearers to move uninhibitedly.

Most suitable for:

Running, Training, Causal Wear

Minimal Meter:

What does it mean?

Manufacture Short Description

With the environmentally friendly Primus Lite II you’ll be in tune with the moment, and feel each step like never before, whatever you’re doing. Product Details: – Made from recycled PET Product details: – Vegan – Plant-Based – Algae-based performance insole

Buying Options

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  • Men's
  • Women's
Vivobarefoot logo From 114$ See deals
Amazon logo From 160$ See deals
Amazon UK logo From 60£ See deals
Vivobarefoot logo From 114$ See deals
Amazon logo From 154$ See deals
Amazon UK logo From 66£ See deals
  • Review
  • Description

Review Summary

The Primus Lite II is a vegan-friendly barefoot shoe that’s mainly made up of bio-materials – Vivobarefoot’s effort to reduce the mark each shoe makes on the planet. True to the series, this second iteration of the Primus Lite still feels very lightweight, allowing wearers to move freely and quickly. Despite some reports of sizing, durability, and pricing concerns, the Primus Lite II is a pair most reach for when looking for that close-to-barefoot experience.

  • PROS
  • Comfortable
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Made with recycled materials
  • CONS
  • Pricey
  • Sizing issues
  • Takes some getting used to (for beginner barefoot-shoe users)

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. 

Expert Reviews

  by 

Expert reviews

User reviews:

FAQ

Do Vivobarefoot shoes break in? Will Vivobarefoot shoes stretch?

Yes, Vivobarefoot shoes will break in. With this particular model, the upper is malleable enough to fuse to the shape of your foot overtime so yes, it also stretches.

Can Vivobarefoot shoes get wet?

Yes, Vivobarefoot shoes can get wet. There are models that have a water resistant upper but the Primus Lite II has a breathable upper that water and moisture can easily pass through. The shoe will get wet as well as your foot. The upside to having a breathable upper though is that the shoe will also dry out easily.

How are barefoot shoes supposed to fit?

Vivobarefoot shoes were designed to mimic the barefoot experience. These shoes have a wide toebox which allow the toes to splay. Beginner barefoot shoe wearers may feel that the shoe is too big because of the wide toebox but generally, there should be a thumb's width from the tip of your toes to the end of the shoe.

Where does the Leather come from, and is it ethically sourced?

Yes, most of the shoe models created by Vivobarefoot have materials that have been ethically sourced. The Primus Lite II isn't made with leather as it is made mostly of recycled plastic but models like Ababa Leather are made up of hydes that have been collected responsibly from farms in Ethiopia.

Where are the shoes produced?

Most Vivobarefoot shoes are made in Vietnam or in Africa.

Which barefoot shoes are best?

The word "best" is rather subjective. The best pair would have to be ones that meet all of your needs. This particular model, the Primus Lite II, it meets the needs of those wanting a barefoot shoe that's versatile, comfortable, and extremely lightweight.

Specs

Brand Vivobarefoot
Model Primus Lite II
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Daily Use, Gym, Running, Strolling, Training
Terrain Road
Eco Friendly Vegan
Design ,Casual,
Materials Mesh
Season Warmer Weather
Sole Attributes Puncture-Proof
Water Protection Breathable
Weight 180g
Heel Toe Drop 0

Manufacture Short Description

With the environmentally friendly Primus Lite II you’ll be in tune with the moment, and feel each step like never before, whatever you’re doing. Product Details: – Made from recycled PET Product details: – Vegan – Plant-Based – Algae-based performance insole

Manufacture Full Description

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II Running Shoes

Wear your eco-warrior statement with the Primus Lite II, putting your feet in control of every run, walk and workout. This vegan shoe is made using recycled plastics, providing lightweight and breathable movement, while treading lightly on the planet.

PET Mesh Upper

Lightweight and lean, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II offers a less shoe, less weight experience for enhanced speed and freedom to move. Following the natural shape of the foot, the recycled PET mesh upper encourages natural human movement flexing with the foot for as little interference as possible. The mesh allows cool air to flow throughout the upper to create a perfect microclimate for your feet to thrive in. The increase in ventilation ensures your feet remain cool, dry and comfortable at all times. The upper is specifically shaped for the foot with minimal interference to your natural movement so you always stay in control. Completing the upper is a lacing system which locks down the midfoot so you can enjoy distraction-free strides.

EVA Bloom Midsole

A EVA Bloom insole provides lightweight cushioning underfoot which in turn reduce the stress placed upon the feet and the joints. EVA is extremely firm, which will absorb shocks instantly and effectively, preventing them from causing any damage to the sole of the foot. Energy produced from this will also be returned as rebound, which will give you an added spring in your step. The EVA bloom is also better for the environment than standard EVA. The high performance foam cleans and restores the environment when harvested making it more environmentally friendly than alternatives.

PRO5 Outsole

Delivering supreme grip and traction over a wide range of terrains, the Primus Lite II will keep you in firm control with the PRO5 outsole. The ultra-thin rubber protects itself against uneven ground as it is abrasion-resistant. In addition to this, the outsole is five times more puncture-resistant than other similar models. The multi-directional design on the outsole will provide further grip and traction. The outsole and other parts of the shoe benefit from using recycled PET. This makes the shoes more sustainable, preventing plastic from ending up in oceans or landfills and giving it a second life.

  • Description
  • Review

Manufacture Full Description

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II Running Shoes

Wear your eco-warrior statement with the Primus Lite II, putting your feet in control of every run, walk and workout. This vegan shoe is made using recycled plastics, providing lightweight and breathable movement, while treading lightly on the planet.

PET Mesh Upper

Lightweight and lean, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite II offers a less shoe, less weight experience for enhanced speed and freedom to move. Following the natural shape of the foot, the recycled PET mesh upper encourages natural human movement flexing with the foot for as little interference as possible. The mesh allows cool air to flow throughout the upper to create a perfect microclimate for your feet to thrive in. The increase in ventilation ensures your feet remain cool, dry and comfortable at all times. The upper is specifically shaped for the foot with minimal interference to your natural movement so you always stay in control. Completing the upper is a lacing system which locks down the midfoot so you can enjoy distraction-free strides.

EVA Bloom Midsole

A EVA Bloom insole provides lightweight cushioning underfoot which in turn reduce the stress placed upon the feet and the joints. EVA is extremely firm, which will absorb shocks instantly and effectively, preventing them from causing any damage to the sole of the foot. Energy produced from this will also be returned as rebound, which will give you an added spring in your step. The EVA bloom is also better for the environment than standard EVA. The high performance foam cleans and restores the environment when harvested making it more environmentally friendly than alternatives.

PRO5 Outsole

Delivering supreme grip and traction over a wide range of terrains, the Primus Lite II will keep you in firm control with the PRO5 outsole. The ultra-thin rubber protects itself against uneven ground as it is abrasion-resistant. In addition to this, the outsole is five times more puncture-resistant than other similar models. The multi-directional design on the outsole will provide further grip and traction. The outsole and other parts of the shoe benefit from using recycled PET. This makes the shoes more sustainable, preventing plastic from ending up in oceans or landfills and giving it a second life.

Expert reviews

User reviews:

Specs

Brand Vivobarefoot
Model Primus Lite II
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Daily Use, Gym, Running, Strolling, Training
Terrain Road
Eco Friendly Vegan
Design ,Casual,
Materials Mesh
Season Warmer Weather
Sole Attributes Puncture-Proof
Water Protection Breathable
Weight 180g
Heel Toe Drop 0
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