The new VIVOBAREFOOT EVO Lite is the fourth generation of the iconic EVO. We first reviewed the VIVOBAREFOOT EVO II over two years ago and have been impressed with all the performance shoes from VIVOBAREFOOT since then.
The VB EVO Lite is an off-road performance running shoe that is designed to be softer, lighter, stickier, faster, and better looking than the previous versions. It turns out VIVOBAREFOOT released two models: Breathable and Hydrophobic. The Breathable version feature a thin nylon mesh upper with TPU overlay for a lightweight, minimal profile. The Hydrophobic version is a water-resistant version (hydrophobic coating) with the same uppers as the Breathable model.
Both have a heel-pull loop for easy on-off with a plush microfiber collar for added comfort and performance. As with all VIVOBAREFOOT shoes, they feature an antibacterial microfiber lining with a removable and washable insole (sockliner) made of 100% recycled memory foam. The insole contains a moisture controlling bamboo-charcoal compound to keep the feet feeling fresher.
The 5mm (2mm lugs) performance outsole is constructed from a blend of latex rubber and TPU for maximum traction and abrasion resistance.
So how did the VIVOBAREFOOT EVO Lite perform?
My pair of VB EVO Lite EU43 weighs in at 8.4 ounces, 7.6 ounces without the sockliner – about half an ounce lighter than the EVO II. The EVO II has a leather upper that most runners prefer including myself and especially for cold and wet weather.
The outsole is slightly softer and everything else is about the same as the VB EVO II. So if you like the VB EVO II model and looking for a new pair of shoes to upgrade to, the EVO Lite will suit you just fine. Or if you are looking for a version to use during the warm summer months, again the VB EVO Lite will do just fine too. These Spring/Summer models from VIVOBAREFOOT are therefore perfect for what’s coming up. The VB EVO II works better for Fall/Winter months.
For those of you who have not tried on a pair of VIVOBAREFOOT off-road running shoes, this is probably the best one to start off with. I personally prefer the VB EVO collection over the VB NEO Trail or VB BREATHO Trail.
I’m slightly disappointed that there are no major technological advances here – the uppers are the most significant change that I can tell. The latest VB technologies can be found on the new VB One and VB Stealth model (3mm road outsole): hexagonal two-tone sole that is tuned for the road and made of V-sense TPU compound. Compare this to the EVO Lite coned hexagon grip sole made of V-grip Rubber compound.
The VIVOBAREFOOT EVO Lite Breathable and Hydrophobic models are available in two colorways for Men:
And also in two colorways for Women but only in the Hydrophobic model:
The VIVOBAREFOOT EVO Lite Breathable and Hydrophobic models are now available for purchase at VIVOBAREFOOT and Zappos.
*Product provided by VIVOBAREFOOT (MSRP $130). CMP.LY/1 Review
If you have a product you’d like reviewed, contact me at info@weartested.org