Vivobarefoot Motus Flex Review: The Ultimate Barefoot Training Shoe?

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Ever felt the urge to train barefoot, but the thought of stepping on sharp objects or hot pavement gave you pause? Vivobarefoot’s Motus Flex offers a solution. Designed to mimic the natural feel of barefoot training, this innovative trainer combines comfort, flexibility, and protection. Let’s explore whether the Motus Flex truly delivers on its promise of a barefoot-like experience.

As someone who’s been rocking barefoot shoes for over a decade, including quite a few Vivobarefoot models, I’m pretty excited about this new addition to their lineup. In this review, we’ll take a close look at how the Motus Flex performs in a garage gym setting. We’ll chat about its comfort, durability, and versatility, both in and out of the gym. Plus, we’ll dive into whether it lives up to its price tag and if it’s worth adding to your workout gear collection. So, lace up (or should I say, slip on) and let’s get started with this Vivobarefoot review!

Barefoot Training Revolution

Have you ever wondered why we’re so obsessed with cushioned shoes when our ancestors roamed the earth barefoot? Well, that’s exactly what the barefoot training revolution is all about. Let’s dive into this natural approach to fitness and see how the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex fits into the picture.

What is barefoot training?

Barefoot training is exactly what it sounds like – working out without shoes. It’s about reconnecting with our natural movement patterns and letting our feet do what they were designed to do. When we ditch our shoes, we’re giving our feet a chance to flex, spread, and grip the ground like they’re supposed to.

Benefits of Barefoot Training

Now, you might be thinking, “Why would I want to exercise without my comfy sneakers?” Well, there are some pretty cool perks to going barefoot. For starters, it can help improve your balance and stability. Without all that cushioning, your feet can feel the ground better, which helps your brain understand where your body is in space.

Barefoot training also strengthens the muscles in your feet and ankles. Think about it – when was the last time you gave your toes a workout? Plus, it can help improve your overall form and alignment during exercises like squats and deadlifts.

How the Motus Flex Fits In

This is where the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex comes into play. It’s designed to give you the benefits of barefoot training while still providing a bit of protection. The Motus Flex is super lightweight and flexible, allowing your feet to move naturally. It’s like having a second skin that lets you feel the ground beneath you.

Comfort and Performance

Let’s cut to the chase: How does the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex feel on the feet? After putting these trainers through their paces, I have some thoughts on them.

Fit and Sizing

The Motus Flex fits very close to true to size – just slightly on the large side. Vivobarefoot states this on their site: “This style runs large, we suggest you go one size down”. For me, I’ve got about a 3/8 inch width of space at the end of my toe box, it doesn’t feel like I’m swimming in them – but likely could have sized down for a closer fit. The upper provides just the right amount of security for my needs. If you’ve got wider feet or high insteps, you might find these more comfortable than other Vivobarefoot shoes.

Flexibility and Range of Motion

Now, this is where the Motus Flex really shines. The decoupled sole is awesome. It allows for maximum flexibility, letting your feet move naturally in every direction. I noticed a big difference in how my big toe connects with the ground, which has helped me push off harder during workouts. Over time, this will certainly strengthen my feet and calf muscles.

Breathability and Lightweight Design

The Motus Flex is super light and airy. The knit upper is breathable, keeping my feet cool during intense workouts. It’s so lightweight that I sometimes forget I’m wearing shoes at all! This barefoot trainer feels more like a second skin than a traditional shoe.

Training Performance

Alright, let’s dive into how the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex performs during workouts. I’ve put these shoes through their paces, and I’ve got to say, they’ve impressed me in several areas.

Stability During Lifts

When it comes to stability, the Motus Flex shines. The wide toe box allows your toes to spread out naturally, giving you a solid grip during heavy lifts. I noticed this especially during squats and deadlifts. The shoe’s design creates a triangle of stability, anchoring your heel, big toe, and pinky toe to the ground. This feature really helped me feel more balanced and secure, especially compared to my regular training shoes.

Flexibility for Dynamic Movements

Here’s where the Motus Flex really lives up to its name. The shoe’s flexibility is off the charts! The decoupled outsole allows for greater foot articulation, which is fantastic for dynamic movements. Whether I was doing lunges, burpees, or plyometric exercises, the shoe moved with my foot seamlessly. It’s really like having a second skin that adapts to your every move.

Ground Feel and Proprioception

If you’re after that barefoot feel, the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex delivers in spades. The 2.5 mm outsole is incredibly thin, offering maximum sensory feedback. This enhanced ground feel really improved my balance and proprioception during workouts. I found myself wobbling less during single-leg exercises and feeling more connected to the ground during agility drills.

In my experience, the Motus Flex is a versatile barefoot trainer that adapts well to various gym activities. Whether you’re lifting weights, doing HIIT, or focusing on calisthenics, these shoes provide the flexibility and ground feel you need for effective workouts.

Everyday Use and Comfort

I’ve been wearing the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex for more than just workouts, and I’ve got to say, they’ve become my go-to shoes for everyday activities. Let’s break down how these barefoot trainers perform outside the gym.

Walking and Standing Comfort

For daily wear and walking, the Motus Flex has been a pleasant surprise. The upper is incredibly comfortable, without any uncomfortable toe break like in some other Vivobarefoot knit models. I’ve found them easy to wear with or without socks, which is a big plus. The lacing system is fantastic for quickly slipping the shoes on and off, making them perfect for dog walks or coffee runs.

Barefoot Feel for Daily Wear

The Motus Flex delivers on the barefoot experience. With its 2.5 mm outsole, it offers maximum sensory feedback. I’ve noticed improved balance during everyday activities, and the roomy toe box allows my feet to spread naturally. It’s like walking barefoot, but with a protective layer between you and the ground.

Versatility Beyond the Gym

These shoes aren’t just for workouts. They have a sporty yet clean look that pairs well with athleisure wear. I’ve worn them for everything from Target runs to casual outings with friends. The Motus Flex adapts well to various casual settings, making it a versatile addition to my wardrobe.

Is It Worth the Price Tag?

Let’s talk money. The Vivobarefoot Motus Flex comes with a hefty price tag of $190. That’s not pocket change for most of us. However, considering its versatility and durability, I believe it offers good value for money. It’s not just a gym shoe – I’ve found myself wearing it for everyday activities too. The comfort and freedom it provides make it a go-to choice for various situations.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or just dipping your toes into barefoot training, the price might be hard to swallow. There are cheaper alternatives out there that can give you a taste of the barefoot experience. But the good news is, Vivobarefoot offers a 100-day return policy. So, you can give them a try and see if they’re worth the investment for you. Plus, keep an eye out for discount codes – they can help soften the blow to your wallet.

In the end, whether the Motus Flex is worth the price depends on your personal needs and budget. For me, the benefits I’ve seen in my training and their versatility make them worth every penny. But I get it if you need to think twice before splurging on these bad boys.

Final Thoughts on the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex

After trying out the Vivobarefoot Motus Flex in my gym for over a month, I’m convinced it’s a top-notch barefoot training shoe. Its lightweight design and flexible sole have a positive impact on my workouts, giving me a better feel for the ground and boosting my stability during lifts. While the price tag might make some hesitate, the Motus Flex’s comfort and adaptability for everyday wear add to its value.

To sum up, if you’re looking to explore barefoot training or want a shoe that can handle everything from weightlifting to HIIT, the Motus Flex is worth checking out. It’s comfortable, performs well across various exercises, and has held up nicely through testing. While it might take some getting used to, especially if you’re new to barefoot shoes, the potential benefits to improve foot strength and overall movement make it a compelling choice for fitness enthusiasts. For more info or to check out a pair for yourself, visit vivobarefoot.com.