LEMs Shoes is known for creating minimalist footwear that prioritizes comfort and natural foot movement. We’ve been wearing and testing LEMs Shoes since 2011. In this review, we’ll compare three of their popular models in white colorways: the Primal 3, Primal Eco, and KOURT. My two female wear testers love their white shoes 🙂
LEMs Shoes Primal 3
Design and Style
- Look: Primal 3 has a sleek, athletic design with a low profile that makes it versatile for both casual wear and light workouts.
- Color: The white colorway is crisp and clean, which can pair well with various outfits.
Comfort and Fit
- Toe Box: Wide and roomy, allowing your toes to spread naturally.
- Weight: Lightweight, making it easy to wear for extended periods without fatigue.
- Flexibility: Extremely flexible, mimicking the natural movement of your foot.
Performance
- Breathability: Highly breathable due to its mesh upper, which keeps your feet cool and dry.
- Cushioning: Minimalist cushioning, designed for those who prefer a barefoot feel.
- Grip: Good grip for everyday activities and light sports, but not meant for intense athletic performance.
LEMs Shoes Primal Eco
Design and Style
- Look: Like the Primal 3 in terms of sleekness, but with a slightly more rugged aesthetic.
- Color: The white colorway is more of an off-white, giving it a more casual, eco-friendly vibe.
Comfort and Fit
- Toe Box: Same wide, natural toe box as the Primal 3.
- Weight: Also lightweight, but slightly heavier than the Primal 3 due to the eco-friendly materials.
- Flexibility: Flexible, but with a bit more structure compared to the Primal 3.
Performance
- Breathability: Good breathability, though slightly less than the Primal 3 because of the thicker, eco-friendly materials.
- Cushioning: Similar minimalist cushioning, providing a natural feel.
- Grip: Decent grip for daily use and casual outings, not suited for high-performance sports.
Uniqueness
Made from sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics and natural rubber with a lower carbon footprint due to eco-conscious manufacturing processes.
LEMs Shoes KOURT
Design and Style
- Look: The Kourt has a classic tennis shoe design with a modern twist, making it perfect for casual wear.
- Color: The white colorway is clean and classic, ideal for a timeless look.
Comfort and Fit
- Toe Box: Slightly narrower than the Primal models, but still roomy compared to traditional sneakers.
- Weight: Heavier than the Primal models due to the more robust construction.
- Flexibility: Less flexible, offering more support and structure.
Performance
- Breathability: Good breathability, but less than the Primal models due to the leather and synthetic upper.
- Cushioning: More cushioning than the Primal models, providing extra comfort for all-day wear.
- Grip: Excellent grip, making it suitable for casual sports and everyday activities.
Uniqueness
The classic design makes it easy to pair with a variety of outfits, from jeans to shorts.
Key Differences
- Materials: The Primal Eco uses recycled materials, the KOURT uses leather, while the Primal 3 uses more traditional synthetic materials.
- Fit: The Primal Eco fits slightly tighter than the Primal 3, while the KOURT’s fit is more like the Primal 3.
- Style: The KOURT has a dressier look, while the Primal 3 and Eco are more casual athletic styles.
- Sustainability: The Primal Eco is the most eco-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
Primal 3: Best for those who prioritize a minimalist, barefoot feel with maximum flexibility and breathability. Ideal for casual wear and light workouts.
Primal Eco: Great for environmentally conscious consumers who want a minimalist shoe with slightly more structure and an eco-friendly twist.
KOURT: Perfect for those looking for classic, stylish sneakers with more support and cushioning, suitable for casual sports and everyday wear.
Each of these shoes caters to unique needs and preferences, making LEMs Shoes a versatile choice for a range of activities and lifestyles. All three will give you the benefits of a wide toe box and zero-drop sole for your best foot health.
