Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s Review

First Impressions of Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s are marketed as the ultimate footwear for high-intensity training, blending minimalist design with robust construction. Vivobarefoot promises that these shoes will not only withstand demanding workouts but also promote natural foot movement and strength development.

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always been intrigued by the minimalist footwear movement, often using it to train my feet. I’ve recently found myself looking for a shoe that could handle the rigors of CrossFit and functional fitness, demanding both stability and flexibility. The Motus Strength seemed to offer a compelling balance between barefoot feel and the necessary support for weightlifting and dynamic movements.

Upon unboxing the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s, I was immediately struck by their unique appearance. The obsidian and grey color scheme is understated yet stylish, and the materials felt surprisingly substantial. They felt light for something that promises the ruggedness needed for rope climbs and box jumps.

Compared to other minimalist training shoes I’ve used, like the Vibram FiveFingers or the Merrell Vapor Glove, the Motus Strength seemed to offer a more structured and supportive feel. I also considered the Nike Metcon series, a popular CrossFit shoe, but the Motus Strength’s focus on natural movement and foot strengthening ultimately swayed my decision. Initial impressions were positive, and I was eager to put these shoes through their paces.

I was cautiously optimistic, hoping they would live up to the hype and provide the performance and durability I needed. Could these be the holy grail of minimalist training shoes for CrossFit and functional fitness? Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s at my local CrossFit gym during a workout that included squats, box jumps, and rope climbs. I wanted to throw everything at them right away.

The shoes performed surprisingly well during the squat portion, giving a solid base for stability; the box jumps felt natural because of the flexibility of the shoe. However, the rope climbs were where they really shined, with the sole gripping the rope tightly and providing excellent control. The barefoot feel took some getting used to during the initial warm-up, but once my feet adapted, I felt more connected to the ground and more stable overall.

There were no immediate issues after the first workout; however, there was some slight discomfort in my arches as my feet adjusted to the minimalist design. After my first workout, I was excited to continue testing them and seeing the results.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve used them for everything from weightlifting to road running, and they have held up impressively.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight scuffing on the outsole. The upper material still looks new, and the stitching remains intact. I found the Motus Strength easy to clean with a damp cloth, and they dry quickly. Compared to my previous experiences with other training shoes, the Motus Strength has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability. The comfort has also improved as my feet have continued to adapt to the minimalist design.

Breaking Down the Features of Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s

Specifications

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s are designed for high-intensity workouts with an emphasis on natural foot movement. Key specifications include:

• Weight: 282g (9.9 oz), promoting a lightweight feel during workouts.
• Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: RPET 84%, Roica Elastane 16%, 58% Bio Base, 42% PU, 100% RPET, 57 % Bio Base Carbon, 43% TPU for durability, flexibility and a reduced environmental impact.
• Outsole Material: Rubber, providing exceptional grip and stability on various surfaces.
• Men’s Shoe Width: Regular, designed to accommodate most foot sizes.
• Color: Obsidian/Grey, offering a sleek and understated aesthetic.
• Activity: Hiking, showcasing versatility beyond gym workouts.
• Gender: Male, specifically engineered for men’s foot shape and biomechanics.

These specifications translate into a shoe that is lightweight, durable, and environmentally conscious, enhancing the overall user experience. The materials used contribute to both performance and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s excel in providing a stable and flexible platform for various exercises. They provide a comfortable base for any user during strength or endurance workouts.

They truly exceed my expectations during CrossFit WODs. The only suggestion for improvement would be a wider toe box. These shoes meet and exceed my expectations, offering a unique blend of minimalist feel and performance-oriented design.

Design & Ergonomics

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s boast a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both form and function. The materials are high quality and the shoe is well-constructed.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the minimalist design, as it takes time for your feet to adapt. However, once your feet adjust, you’ll experience a natural and connected feel that enhances your performance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s are built to last. They are one of the most durable minimalist shoes I’ve used.

They are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Proper care will ensure that these shoes provide long-lasting performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s do not come with any additional accessories. There are limited customization options available directly from Vivobarefoot.

However, the minimalist design lends itself to various aftermarket insoles and socks for added comfort or support. The shoe’s compatibility with standard insoles and socks makes it easy to personalize to your liking.

Pros and Cons of Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s

Who Should Buy Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s?

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s are perfect for CrossFit enthusiasts, functional fitness athletes, and anyone looking to strengthen their feet and improve their natural movement. These are great for anyone looking to improve performance and longevity.

Those who are new to minimalist footwear or who prefer a more cushioned shoe should skip this product. Those who need maximum support might find these too minimal. Must-have accessories include moisture-wicking socks to enhance comfort and hygiene.

Conclusion on Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s

In summary, the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s are a solid investment for anyone seeking a durable, high-performance training shoe that promotes natural foot movement. It’s all in the name, strength!

The price may seem high, but the quality of materials, durable construction, and performance benefits justify the cost.

I would definitely recommend the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Shoes – Men’s to anyone serious about their fitness and looking to improve their foot strength and overall stability. It is well worth the investment.