A multi-part series on Proprioception for Runners.
Part 1 – Master Proprioception to Run Injury-Free and Stronger
Part 2 – Strengthen Your Feet and Enhance Performance with VIVOBAREFOOT Motus Flex
Part 3 – Improve Your Proprioception in Weeks with Minimalist Shoe Training
Now that you understand how important proprioception is for runners, let’s look at the latest next-generation minimalist shoe from VIVOBAREFOOT that is as barefoot as I have ever seen from them. I’m talking about the Motus Flex. Their closest barefoot shoe is the latest Ultra III Bloom model (we reviewed earlier versions of Ultra back in 2011).
The VIVOBAREFOOT Motus Flex is a minimalist shoe designed primarily for people who enjoy an active lifestyle or those who just want to feel more connected to the ground while walking or moving about. It combines flexibility, durability, and natural foot movement in a sleek design.
Design & Aesthetic
The Motus Flex has a clean, modern look, and slightly flashy, but it stands out in a minimalist way. The materials used are high quality and breathable. The shoe’s low profile and sleek design are good for those who prefer a simple, functional aesthetic without extra bulk.
Key Features
- Barefoot Experience: Designed to give you a “barefoot” feel while protecting your feet. The sole is super thin, allowing you to feel the ground more than traditional shoes. It’s all about making your foot muscles work more naturally and giving you better balance.
- Flexibility: As the name Flex suggests, the shoe is highly flexible. You can bend and twist it easily with your hands, and the shoe adapts well to your foot’s movements. This keeps your feet unrestricted during activities like running, training, or just walking.
- Wide Toe Box: One thing that makes VIVOBAREFOOT shoes special is their wider toe box, which means your toes can splay naturally, giving you more stability and comfort.
- Durability: Despite being lightweight, the Motus Flex can manage tough workouts, outdoor terrain, and plenty of movement without wearing out quickly.
- Lightweight: The shoe is incredibly light (9.4 ounces for Men’s US Size 9), so it won’t weigh you down during activities. This is great for high-energy sports or if you’re just looking for shoes that feel like you’re barely wearing them.
- Ground Feel: The thin sole is a highlight of this shoe. If you’re someone who wants to feel connected to the ground, this shoe will provide that sensation. However, it also means you might notice small rocks or uneven surfaces a bit more compared to thicker shoes.
Comfort
The comfort level is excellent for those used to minimalist shoes, but if you’re transitioning from regular workout or running shoes, it may take getting used to. The barefoot experience makes your foot muscles work harder, which is beneficial for strengthening, but it may feel odd at first if you’re not used to it.
The breathable materials keep your feet cool, and the wide toe box ensures there’s no cramping or pinching, which is great for long walks or extended periods of wear.
Support & Cushioning
If you’re used to heavily cushioned shoes, the Motus Flex might feel like it has no support or padding. The shoe lets your foot do the work naturally – there’s no thick cushioning, no arch support, and no heel lift, which encourages a more natural foot strike and posture.
If you’re new to minimalist shoes, start slowly to give your feet time to adjust to the lack of cushioning and support.
Versatility
It works well for indoor gym activities, CrossFit, and other training, but it’s also good for light outdoor running and walking. It might not be the best choice for long-distance running if you prefer more cushioning or are running on very rough terrain, but for most everyday activities and short-to-medium workouts, it excels.
Durability
Despite its thin appearance, the shoe holds up well over time. The materials are tough, and the soles are resistant to wear and tear. However, since it’s a minimalist shoe, it’s not meant for extreme environments like harsh mountain trails or heavy construction work.
Who Is This For?
- Active People: If you enjoy running, training, or doing sports that require quick movements and agility, this shoe can be a great companion.
- Barefoot Enthusiasts: If you love the feeling of being barefoot but want protection, this is perfect for you.
- People Looking to Strengthen Their Feet: Since these shoes make your feet work harder, they can help in building strength over time.
Who Might Want to Avoid It?
- People Who Need Lots of Cushioning: If you’re someone who needs a lot of support or is prone to foot pain, this shoe might not be comfortable for you.
- People New to Barefoot Shoes: If you’ve never tried minimalist shoes before, there’s a learning curve – slowly ease into wearing them to avoid soreness.
Price
The Motus Flex is not the cheapest shoe on the market, but for the quality and durability, it’s worth the investment. VIVOBAREFOOT shoes are known for being premium products, and the price reflects that.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Excellent ground feel and flexibility
- Versatile for diverse types of workouts and daily wear
- Breathable and comfortable upper
- May improve balance and foot strength
Cons:
- High price point
- Minimal cushioning may be uncomfortable for some users
- Sizing can be tricky (my regular VIVOBAREFOOT shoe size feels loose)
- Not ideal for high-impact activities or long-distance running
Final Thoughts
The VIVOBAREFOOT Motus Flex is an excellent choice for anyone who values flexibility, natural movement, and a minimalist design. It may take time to adjust if you’re new to barefoot shoes, but once your feet adapt, it provides a comfortable and natural feel that many traditional shoes don’t offer. Its design and durability make it a great all-rounder for a variety of activities.
If you’re looking to improve your foot strength, balance, and overall connection to the ground, this shoe must be in your runner’s toolbox. However, if you’re someone who needs more cushioning and support, it may not be the best fit.
A few other barefoot shoes like VIVOBAREFOOT Ultra III Bloom and Xero Shoes Pagosa should also be in your toolbox.
In our next article, we will show you a plan (both short and long term) to improve or enhance your proprioception.