The hits keep coming. LEMs Shoes is again expanding the Primal series with their latest, the LEMs Primal Eco. We have recently reviewed the LEMs Primal 3 and compared it with the LEMs Primal 2 and Primal Zen.
The LEMs Primal Eco model actively integrates sustainability and comfort into its design. While it shares many characteristics of the LEMs Primal 3, it sets itself apart with its eco-friendly materials and a uniquely tailored fit.
I was already uber impressed with the LEMs Primal 3 but after wear-testing the Primal Eco, I like it even more. Briefly, the reinforced panels and eye-stay bring a fresh look and style to the Primal Eco.
Primal Eco Key Features
Sustainable Materials
Leveraging 50% recycled materials, the LEMs Primal Eco actively promotes environmental sustainability. This design choice appeals to eco-conscious consumers and demonstrates that using recycled materials can enhance a product’s sustainability without sacrificing quality or durability.
Fit and Comfort
The LEMs Primal Eco offers a snugger fit in the upper than the Primal 3 due to the use of less soft and stretchy recycled materials. This tailored fit is especially beneficial for individuals with low-volume feet, providing a secure fit around the midfoot while avoiding excess looseness.
Design and Build
Constructed using the same mold as the LEMs Primal 3, the Primal Eco maintains a consistent and dependable structure. It features a wide toe box, characteristic of LEMs shoes, which allows for greater toe spread and movement, essential for optimal foot health and comfort. Additionally, its zero-drop platform aligns the forefoot and heel at the same level, aiding in posture correction and promoting a natural foot strike.
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LEMs Primal Eco versus Primal 3
While LEMs Primal Eco and Primal 3 have the same mold, the Primal Eco’s use of recycled materials for a snug fit differentiates it. Both models share the zero-drop feature, wide toe box, and focus on comfort and foot health. However, LEMs Primal 3 may offer a slightly softer feel due to its material composition.
Two standout differences: non-gusseted tongue and eye-stay.
A gusseted tongue has the tongue attached to both sides of the shoe’s upper, creating a secure and snug fit. This attachment method enhances the shoe’s ability to block out debris, water, and other external elements from entering the shoe – common in trail running shoes and hiking boots.
A non-gusseted tongue as in the Primal Eco allows more flexibility, is lighter, provides better breathability but less protection. It also easier entry and exit.
An eye-stay is a key part of a shoe’s lacing system. It is the material that runs along the sides of the shoe’s throat (the opening where laces thread) and holds the eyelets in place.
The eye-stay on the Primal Eco provides reinforcement around the eyelets to prevent tearing when you tighten the laces and helps secure the shoe to the foot by allowing the laces to pull the upper together over the tongue.
Additional Primal Eco Review
Another point of view from one of my female wear-tester. She loved the Primal Eco model, and she compared it to her favorite, the LEMs KOURT. Super comfortable on long walks, she did have one nit and one suggestion.
Nit – The heel counter is about half-an-inch higher and without socks, you might get a blister on your Achilles tendon for long walks.
Suggestion – She prefers a white outsole (like the LEMs KOURT) versus the brown on the Primal Eco. It gives it a more sophisticated look.
The Last Word
Two straight weeks wearing the Primal Echo for 3+ miles every day, no socks. No hots spots, no blisters. Just joy.
The LEMs Primal Eco is a top recommendation for those who value environmental sustainability without sacrificing comfort and foot health. This shoe is particularly well-suited for individuals with lower volume feet or those who desire a closer fit around the midfoot. Its wide toe box and zero-drop design actively support the natural anatomy and function of the foot, making the Primal Eco an excellent choice for everyday wear and a variety of activities that require freedom and comfort for your feet.
In conclusion, the LEMs Primal Eco distinguishes itself in the eco-friendly footwear market by combining sustainability, comfort, and practical design. Sharing many features with the Primal 3, it offers reliability for existing LEMs fans and meets the specific needs of environmentally conscious consumers seeking a snugger fit.
Currently available on LEMs online in two colorways: Shade, Fossil.
