Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

Detailed Review

Check out the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Minimal Vegan Road Running Shoe Review by fitness enthusiast Alvin R Gaela. It’s an older version, however, it has many similarities with the Primus Lite III.

Not a lot has changed with the third version of the Primus Lite. Just like its predecessors, it’s one of the lightest shoes created by Vivobarefoot promising to deliver a close-to-shoeless experience while still being protective when the wearer is on common, hard surfaces. The outsole has been updated and a performance insole has been added.

Specs

The Barefoot Primus Lite III is foot-shaped. Compared to conventional shoes, it follows the anatomy and natural curve of the feet with the forefoot area having enough room for the toes to spread out while moving. 

On the bottom of the shoe, Vivobarefoot’s Active Outsole technology was added. It’s a kind of rubber that provides decent protection on common surfaces, extreme flexibility, and decent durability while maintaining a good amount of responsiveness.

Inside the third version of the Primus Lite Vivobarefoot is a performance insole called Ortholite. Although a third-party technology, this insole offers moisture management, high breathability, lightness, consistent comfort, and, best of all, it aligns with Vivobarefoot’s goals to be more earth-friendly.

The Primus Lite III is part of the (Re)new and Improved program that remakes shoe models with materials that are more sustainable, more specifically post-consumer plastic waste, which reduces the impact the shoes make on the planet.

Performance

A good number of Primus Lite III Reviews say that the shoe feels comfortable right out the box. There’s no need for a new pair to be broken in according to many. 

When worn, plenty of consumers have been surprised at how good the shoe feels despite it only having the Ortholite insert as its minimal cushioning. The insert is removable so those who prefer to want more direct feedback from the ground can just remove it.

Its lightness allowed reviewers to move uninhibitedly. Because of this, the third version of the Primus Lite Vivobarefoot was made as a companion in doing different physical activities – working out at the gym, weight lifting, running, cross-training. On the other hand, many found it to be a good everyday companion with its minimalist design, comfort level, and barefoot attributes.

It’s important to remember that these shoes were not designed for hiking or trail running. Those who would like barefoot footwear that has a decent level of protection from objects and reliable grip on tricky surfaces should look at other options like the Tracker II FG or the Magna FG.

When moving over flat surfaces, however, the Primus Lite III performs well, said users. On the tarmac and other common surfaces, it exhibited good grip.

You can also check out the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Minimal Vegan Road Running Shoe Review by fitness enthusiast Alvin R Gaela. It’s an older version, however it’s has many similarities with the Primus Lite III.

Sizing

With the Primus Lite III, there are no half sizes. Many were disappointed with this. Those who are in between sizes opted for going a full size up. For example, a reviewer who wears a 7.5 usually went for a size 8, whether it was a Primus Lite Men’s Review or Women’s. 

There were those who went true to size but to those who would like to get their own pair, it should be noted that going true to size will be affected by instep height, foot width, and foot shape. 

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 III VS Previous Iterations

The first version of the Primus Lite was meant to be a nimble shoe. Although the brand was true to their word, it could be the lightest they’ve made yet, there were issues with durability. Vivobarefoot seemed to have designed the Primus Lite II with better durability and longer mileage in mind, updating the upper design and materials. On the second version, the outsole was retained, but updates to the lacing system and heel padding design were made.

On the third version, Primus Lite III, the outsole was updated to Vivobarefoot’s Active Sole. The signature 4mm outsole is reported to deliver better durability, grip, and sensory feedback. Inside, an Ortholite Performance Insole was added to deliver an extra level of comfort without too much cushioning.

Final call

The Primus Lite III is an earth-friendly, vegan-friendly, and versatile footwear that’s mostly used doing different physical activities – running, weight lifting, training, walking, strolling, and so much more. Its colorways and straightforward design also allowed it to be used as daily footwear. 

It won’t be your go-to pair when it’s drizzling outside, but it can be your favorite when it’s sunny and you’re doing your usual activities while maintaining that true barefoot feel. Despite the light materials used, plenty mentioned that a pair of Barefoot Primus Lite III may be too pricey compared to other barefoot shoes. The shoelace could have been more premium at this price point, said some reviews.