Minimalist sandals offer one the experience of being barefoot whilst maintaining maximum protection. This concept has quickly caught on with sandaled names like Xero Shoes and Vivobarefoot leading the market. However, if looking to purchase one of these brands, which one would be best suited for you? Exploring further will give you a better understanding of which footwear would suit you better.
Design and Aesthetics
Xero Shoes (5/5)
Xero Shoes features minimalistic designs emphasizing a modern and versatile approach to outdoor footwear. This adaptability allows for easy use right from trails to even coffee shops. Xero Shoes provide great performance with min HTDG which means the shoes are ultra flexible and allow free movement of the feet. Given their attention to practical features rather than gimmicks Xero Shoes are perfect for those who want a shoe and not a fashion statement. They are lightweight and make it feel as if you were wearing nothing when out on the trails.
Vivobarefoot (4/5)
As for Vivobarefoot they employ a more urban and sleek approach to their designs which markets their shoes for a broader audience. Along with the other shoes Vivobarefoot shoes sleekness can allow them to look fitting for the runway as well. This comes in handy for urban citizens or individuals looking for a sleek and urban appeal without losing the barefoot effects and type. However Xero Shoes and their flexibility may prove more helpful in other environments as some might struggle attuning to the designs and deploying them as a rugged outdoor shoe. For urban casuals they prove to be great with the little sacrifice to barefoot feel due to their thick soles.
Comfort and Fit
Xero Shoes (5/5)
Xero proves to shine in the comfort department and their outstanding feature confirms this. The wide toe box that Xero possesses spreads the toe naturally which helps in balancing the foot and providing endurance when it comes to the feet as balancing that minimizes fatigue is key. Perfect for people with small or wider feet as well and especially first time users of minimalist shoes they will find it an amazing compliment. On top of everything they provide a fake lacing system that will restrain pinching and aid in snug fitting whether the user is going for runs or simply heading out for a walk.
Vivobarefoot (4/5)
Vivobarefoot approaches comfort in a more singular manner as they comfort them with extra soft and supporting materials suitable for their urban wear needs. This may however prove an issue for users with a wider foot shape as they still endorse natural movement but the users using a wider set of shoes may find the narrower variants less comfortable. Even with a narrow toe box the shoes can be self managed to some extent.
Performance
Xero Shoes (5/5)
The Xero shoes appear to be highly performing. Trail running rocks climbing and water sports come to easy when wearing these shoes. Due to the lightweight design and excellent ground connection it ensures the center of gravity is never shifted too much. Walking around the park during summer feels good the same high quality experience is ensured.
Vivobarefoot (4/5)
Vivobarefoot has done a commendable job as well though it must be noted that their shoes are better for cities and light outdoor activities. The additional thickness of the sole though helpful in protection against the harshness of street while moving in a city brings in a hindrance the ability to properly feel the ground. If you don’t walk much or only need a shoe to use every now and then to do chores then you should consider Vivobarefoot strongly. Xero Shoes on the other hand will find these ideal only for casual strolling not for any sports or rough use.
Material and Sustainability
Xero Shoes (5/5)
In terms of sustainability Xero Shoes have set the benchmark really high. Their shoe materials are eco-friendly and vegan which portray robustness. Right from the glue to the sole each and every part is developed in such a manner that it has minimal carbon footprint. This kind of thinking already puts those sorts of shoes in a guilt free environment as they are designed in such a way to be both light and strong.
Vivobarefoot (4/5)
Vivobarefoot is similarly environmentally friendly. They are known for trying and using recycled materials in the shoes wherever possible. Their attempts at development and in promotion responsible manufacturing are indeed commendable. Their appeal brand may be positioned in the mid range but their processes targeting low income groups comes with its own set of restrictions which does take away from this type of environmental appeal.
Price and Value
Xero Shoes (5/5)
Xero sneakers perhaps are the most reasonable and affordable ones in the market. They not only sell their products at a reasonable price but also ensure that the quality robustness and functionality are maintained. For a person looking for minimalist shoes Xero sneakers are valuable considering the fact that they do not come as expensive.
Vivobarefoot (4/5)
Vivobarefoot shoes on the other hand are distinctly quite expensive. Vivobarefoot shoewear is sophisticated and elegant. However the price does drop its worth in some cases. If budget is not considered then the functionality and wear & tear durability of the product would deem worth the price but for a considerable population the value offered in comparison to Xero shoes is very less.
Final Verdict
Why Xero Shoes Take the Crown
Xero Shoes combine almost every aspect in the best way possible. Functionality comfort value all at once Xero Shoes manage to stand out and be the best in the market out there. Their focus on allowing the body to move naturally making their products widely available and using natural ingredients would allow a person considering barefooting to do so without fail.
Why Vivobarefoot Still Shines
For those focused on minimalistic modern aesthetics and practicality in the city Vivobarefoot fits the bill perfectly. Their shoes are trendy and sturdy which is great for the city lifestyle even if they do not provide as good a ground contact or value for money like Xero Shoes do.
What Is Your Opinion?
Have you used clothes from either of these brands? Leave a comment & provide tips for others on the correct selection! Here you can leave a review for Xero Shoes & here for Vivobarefoot.
Created: 5 Jan 2025, Updated: 8 Jan 2025
Marcus - January 8, 2025 @ 15:03
Having been a fan of minimalist shoes for several years, making the switch to Xero Shoes has taken my walking experience to a different level. I have tested Vivobarefoot before, and though they serve their purpose for city use, Xero Shoes are far more practical for outdoor or everyday use. The wide toe box together with the flexible soles increase the overall comfort and freedom of foot movement greatly, thus speeding-up recovery even after extensive hiking. The plants used in these shoes are environmentally friendly and the prices are moderate considering the quality. My Xero Shoes, however, work perfectly for me in all these activities be it trail running, climbing or having coffee out. Being lightweight makes me feel like I’m not wearing shoes, which gives me better ground connection. Honestly, I recommend Xero Shoes for all people who care about functionality, comfort and eco properties of their shoes.
Olaf - January 24, 2025 @ 15:36
Do you think the price difference between xero shoes and vivobarefoot is justified?