When it comes to barefoot hiking shoes, we at Terradrift have tested more than our fair share. From the rugged but ultra-flexible Magna Lite WR SG to the Xero Shoes Scrambler, we know a thing or two about what makes a barefoot shoe trail-worthy. So when Vivobarefoot dropped the Primus Trail Flow Mid, we had to lace ‘em up and take them for a spin.
First Impressions and Specs
The first thing you notice about these new trail shoes? Weight. These things barely tip the scale at 262g (9.2 oz) per shoe. That’s lighter than your average running shoe, let alone a boot meant to take you into the mountains. They feel like wearing nothing, which is exactly the point.
As you’d expect from a barefoot shoe, they’re zero-drop, have no heel lift, no cushioning, just a wide toe box and impressive ground feel. And unlike most Vivos, they don’t even come with an insole. The idea: to get you as close to the ground as possible.
Also, instead of traditional laces they feature a quick-adjust locking pull-cord. This made them easy to get on and off but they were way too long when tightened up. So much so that I was tripping over the laces. Fortunately, a hook on the end of the cord lets you clip it to the top of your laces, or you can remove the clip with a small flathead screwdriver (or similar tool) to pull the cord through, trim and shorten them.
Sustainability
Vivobarefoot, as always, did a fantastic job sourcing sustainable materials:
- Upper: 95% recycled polyester / 5% spandex ripstop + a collar knit of 86% recycled polyester / 14% spandex.
- Lining: 100% recycled polyester.
- Laces: 100% recycled polyester.
- Outsole: a blend of BR, NR, NBR, filler, and agents (30%, 20%, 24%, 18%, 8%).
They’re also vegan, but Vivobarefoot admits that they can’t guarantee that all of their minor components—adhesives, dyes, and such—are vegan. They do their due diligence as much as possible, they just don’t want to make promises they aren’t able to back up. We appreciate the transparency and are comfortable with their statement of vegan-friendly materials.
Fit and Comfort
Here’s where things get tricky. Because these shoes are designed to be worn sans insole, I expected sizing to account for that, but I was surprised to find that wasn’t the case. In fact, they were not only too big, but a brand spokesperson told me they actually run a bit larger than similar models. I had to add an insole from my Magna Trail SGs to get a snug fit. With that extra layer, they fit fine, but the laces had to be cinched tight enough that the upper fabric scrunched up a bit (which Alisha has to do in all her Vivos simply because she has such slender, low-volume feet).
That said, toe room is abundant, as is typical with Vivos. If you’re new to barefoot shoes, the generous splay space might feel like wearing clown shoes at first, but your feet (and toes) will thank you after a few miles.
As for comfort: once dialed in, wearing them on hikes felt great. Without an insole, the soles are stiffer than the SG (soft ground) soles available in other styles, but they also offer more protection on rocky terrain. It’s a trade-off: you’ll lose a little sensory connection, but gain the ability to hike longer distances on gnarlier trails without your feet fatiguing.
Traction and Outsole Performance
The sole of the Primus Trail Flow Mid grips without issue (mostly). On dry rock, the sole grips well. On wet stone, the grip slips to “pretty good”—not sketchy, but not invincible either. On mud, gravel, and packed dirt? No complaints.
The “V”-pattern lugs are medium-depth and moderately aggressive, making them versatile enough to handle just about any terrain. They’re not crazy deep like the the SG’s, but they’ll hold their own on steep ascents and loose descents.
Weather and Durability
Technically, these shoes are water resistant. The toe cap and upper deflect splashes no problem, but the tongue area and ankle collar are fabric. Step into a stream and they’ll definitely get soaked. But for skirting the odd creek or a brief light rain, no problem.
Breathability is solid, making them a solid warm-weather or shoulder-season shoe. I wouldn’t likely wear them in the winter as there’s neither insulation nor waterproofing (check out our fave winter barefoot boots here). As for durability, if my experience with other Vivos is any indicator, these should last years. And when they don’t, Vivobarefoot’s Resole & Revive program keeps them out of landfills and on feet. That’s a big win.
Style and Versatility
One thing I appreciate about Vivobarefoot shoes, including these, is the street style. Unlike clunky hiking boots, the Primus Trail Flow Mid is sleek, modern, and pairs nicely with jeans or shorts if you want to hit the brewery after the trail or just want to pack one pair of shoes that can do it all on your next adventure-heavy trip.
Price and Value
Let’s not sugarcoat it: These shoes aren’t a budget item; $220 is steep for a pair of trail shoes. But honestly, Vivo makes some of Alisha’s and my favorite shoes for hiking and travel thanks to the barefoot functionality, style and comfort. If you value those things (and appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability and foot health), the price feels a little easier to swallow.
Who They’re For
The Primus Trail Flow Mid is for hikers and ultralighters who want a shoe that can handle just about everything. It’s for trail runners who want more ankle coverage to keep debris out, barefoot enthusiasts who want one pair of shoes that goes from summit to sidewalk, and anyone looking to strengthen their feet and ankles without having to deal with stiff, heavy boots (read about how barefoot shoes can strengthen feet and ankles here).
If you need a true waterproof shoe for winter or sloppy conditions, check out our suggestions here. But if you want a lightweight, do-it-all barefoot hiker that looks good enough to wear into town, these should be high on your list.
Bottom Line: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow
Vivobarefoot continues to prove that barefoot shoes don’t have to be niche, ugly, or impractical. The Primus Trail Flow nails the balance between weight, traction, durability, and style. Sure, the sizing is a bit different than similar Vivo styles, but these are minor quibbles compared to the overall package.
If you’re ready to strengthen your feet, tread lighter on the planet, and look good doing it, the Primus Trail Flow Mid might just be your new go-to. So lace up and get out there and wander on already!
