Comments on Running and Rambling: VIVOBAREFOOT Breatho Trail First Impressions Revie...

I don't do any trail running, but the Ultra is...

2012-02-16T05:05:01.392-08:00

I don't do any trail running, but the Ultra is my favorite shoe out of many different models, precisely because is it so incredibly light (I've never used the sock liner that comes with it). The really issue is that what makes them so light is also their downfall, not durable at all so that I wore a hole in my sole in about three months of running what most would consider average mileage. To their credit, VB replaced them free of charge, but it still doesn't resolve the issue.
I agree that their other shoes are too damn heavy. I like the Neos just fine, but when they get wet the tongue absorbs water and makes them even heavier. C'mon VB, get it right soon!

I have the 2011 Neo Trail, which I think is simila...

2012-01-28T13:25:58.638-08:00

I have the 2011 Neo Trail, which I think is similar in most ways. It's heavy but it offers a lot of protection in the upper, and under the arch (rock protection), and the sole is quite thick, at least the way it feels. So I'd say it's for rougher trails with debris. The grip is amazing, though. I have never slipped in them, even on icy and wet wood logs.

I think they could make that lugs 2mm instead of whopping 4mm, and make a lighter upper, and reach a better "match weight". But I still like the shoe very much. I repeat I'm talking about it's sister shoe, the Neo Trail.

Great review. I think I'm going to buy this tr...

2012-01-09T04:20:32.801-08:00

Great review. I think I'm going to buy this trail. It looks great and comfortable to wear. My Vibram Five Fingers has already worn out. I had it for 2 years and it's worth it. It's new year and it's time to get a new pair of Vivo barefoot shoes.

Happy New year!

Interesting. I like the EVOs for walking around bu...

2012-01-06T16:02:31.181-08:00

Interesting. I like the EVOs for walking around but they're too heavy for running. You've noted the Vivo shoes' weight in this and earlier reviews--is Vivobarefoot hearing that? Are they planning lighter shoes? Right now these are comparable or heavier than traditional racing flats or even trail racers. What's minimalist about 9oz shoes?

I'm pleased so far with the Neo Trails. They&...

2012-01-05T13:52:28.649-08:00

I'm pleased so far with the Neo Trails. They're the best shoes I've ever owned for cold winter running. The weight was part of the reason that I decided to buy them. I've added heavier shoes to my workouts to make sure that I can run with a thicker sole and rock plate without feeling the weight.

So I might pick these up for spring mud running if my X-talons finish disintegrating by then.

@Rob Smith: Great point, and sorry for the oversig...

2012-01-05T07:34:07.283-08:00

@Rob Smith: Great point, and sorry for the oversight. I updated the post to include the Ultra. I don't think I'd like it on trails, but it might be a good road option.

Like you, I blew through the uppers on my first pair of Evos, but the others I've had since then have been fine. Hopefully the Breatho will be similar.

@Scott: no rock plate, and no midsole. Just the puncture-resistant outsole.

Does it have a rock plate?

2012-01-05T06:38:10.703-08:00

Does it have a rock plate?

thanks for the review! small comment - vivobarefoo...

2012-01-05T06:04:39.188-08:00

thanks for the review! small comment - vivobarefoot have also released the ultra since the evo and, although i know you are not a huge fan, it certainly is much lighter. my issue with the evo's is the lack of durability of the uppers. it looks rather like these breathos will suffer from the same problem. i'll be interested to see your follow up review but, to be honest, since you recommended me the soft star runamocs, something pretty incredible is going to have to come to market to get me to change.