[cmsms_row data_width=”boxed” data_color=”default” data_padding_top=”10″ data_padding_bottom=”10″][cmsms_column data_width=”1/1″]
[cmsms_divider width=”long” height=”2″ style=”dashed” position=”center” margin_top=”5″ margin_bottom=”5″ animation_delay=”0″]
[cmsms_text animation_delay=”0″]
The VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Lite II Bio is a re-engineered version of the famous Primus Lite made using a corn-based, vegan biopolymer. By reducing the parts and production process, it is VIVOBAREFOOT‘s lightest and most efficient performance shoe to date, crushing the environmental impact of modern shoe-making and putting as little as possible between your feet and the ground.
The Primus Lite II Bio uses a natural bi-product of the field-corn food industry called ‘Susterra Propanediol’ developed by DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products,. This plant-based polymer has allowed VIVOBAREFOOT to create an incredibly high performing shoe that is also their lightest and most environmentally sound yet. Susterra Propanediol is derived from the glucose in field corn and is petroleum-free, non-toxic and 100% USDA certified. The entire sole of the Primus Lite II Bio and 70% of the upper is made from it – making a shoe to be the least petroleum-reliant performance shoe in the world. Susterra Propanediol uses 42% less energy than the standard petroleum based materials used by the global footwear industry. And 56% less greenhouse gas emissions.
Materials
- Vegan
- Plant-Based Bio upper Sorona (textile), No-sew Susterra (TPU);
- Outsole – 45% Natural rubber, 10% Bloom outsole & 45% synthetic
- Performance insole -made with 10% BLOOM – an algae-based alternative to synthetic and petrochemical EVA
- Weight : 8.4 ounces (EU 43/US 10.0)
Review
A note of caution for those new to natural running – the Primus Lite II Bio and others within the VIVOBAREFOOT Primus family is the closest you can get to a traditional huarache sandals. Your calves or arches might hurt if you overdo it or if you’re new to natural running with minimal cushioning. Make sure you’ve been running with minimalist running shoes for a few months before running in the Primus Lite II Bio.
Short of running barefoot or in huarache sandals, another way to tune your natural running style (midfoot or forefoot strike, short strides, tread lightly, etc.) is to wear a pair of the Primus Lite II Bio. Because there is no cushioning anywhere in the shoe, you’re forced to run naturally. I used to do this monthly to make sure my running style does not change as I mix in slightly cushioned trail shoes and road shoes for my running regimen. Think and visualize how a gazelle run – quiet, light, relax, etc.
I’m delighted that the Primus Lite II Bio delivered on its promise with an ultra-flexible (yes, it is fully bendable), breathable, thin, and decent weight shoe (I would prefer 2 ounces lighter) that you can run and walk in – you can feel the ground and wake those nerves in your feet. As usual, I run sock-less in these shoes – ultra-comfortable with no hot spots or blisters for short to medium runs (3 miles to 10 miles). Very well built and washable easily if you run on trails too.
I’ve taken long walks in the Primus Lite II Bio every night for the past two weeks with my dogs (2 miles to 3 miles daily) in addition to wearing it to work with my jeans (everyday is casual for me). So I couldn’t be happier with a pair of running shoes that I can also use for walking and working in!
Now available online at VIVOBAREFOOT.
[/cmsms_text]
[cmsms_divider width=”long” height=”2″ style=”dashed” position=”center” margin_top=”5″ margin_bottom=”5″ animation_delay=”0″]
[/cmsms_column][/cmsms_row]