Barefoot running shoes have a cult following and of the few brands that produce such shoes, Vivobarefoot is probably the best known. The British brand has just announced its new footwear in collaboration with the tire manufacturer Michelin: the Vivobarefoot Tempest .
They were originally created for endurance sports SwimRun, but Tempest is the first in Vivobarefoot's new Extreme Survival Collection . According to the brand, its new collection " is the ultimate off-road performance shoe to escape the city with uninterrupted natural movement both on land and at sea ."
The Tempest is a trail running shoe as it was designed to ease the transition from trail to sea and features a ' lace lock system, an aerodynamic lace pocket to aid hydrodynamics and a seamless sock construction for a second skin sensation . "
Physical characteristics of the shoe
Just because it's a minimalist running shoe doesn't mean the Tempest has no cushioning. The foam heel adds protection on the trails and increased buoyancy in the water , and is made with algae-based BLOOM technology, making the Tempest a very sustainable shoe, as expected from Vivobarefoot.
The sole pattern mimics the natural growth patterns found in oceanic "brain coral" structures. In the official press release, Vivobarefoot says the following about the outsole: " The pattern was used to create a lightweight cage that achieves breathability and flexibility with protection, while allowing water to drain with every step on the ground or hit on the water . " " Vivobarefoot's spirit of minimalist design, this structure uses the fewest materials possible to maximize Vivobarefoot's durability, performance, quality and signature feel ."
Key Features:
- Lace lock system and lace pocket to aid hydrodynamics in the water.
- Quick-draining mesh and recycled plastic PET ankle sock construction.
- Bio-based Bloom EVA midsole.
- Super grippy rubber outsole developed in collaboration with Michelin.
The sneakers are already available on their official website , at a price of € 205. The new Extreme Survival Collection will include additional styles in fitness and outdoor categories for the rest of 2020.
