FIT KIT HERO

The verdict on barely there trainers from Vivobarefoot

Various experts have told me that I don’t distribute my weight evenly across my feet. Years of bad habits (apparently, I run flat-footed) and wearing shoes that get narrower at the toes have left me unable to ground my entire foot, meaning I can’t get all my toes to touch the floor at the same time. Why is this an issue? Because it can lead to joint problems – and, in my case, it’s exacerbating a hip injury. Could Vivobarefoot be the answer? In an effort to recreate a shoe-less experience, the soles are thin, unpadded and flexible, which allows your feet to move like they should naturally, unleashing their natural strength and range of movement. The Primus Lite III looks cool in a minimalist way, and they’re versatile enough to wear to the gym and beyond. They’re exceptionally comfortable and are wide to the end of the shoe, meaning your toes can spread out. The fact that you can feel the different textures of the ground beneath you takes some getting used to, but I wore mine on a country walk and enjoyed the varying sensations. They’re made from recycled plastic and use 62% less materials than the classic Primus Lite. I’ve been wearing mine almost every day for a month and I feel like my toes are spreading out in a more natural way. I love the simple aesthetic – they’ve even garnered a few compliments at the school gate – and if they’re helping to strengthen my feet, which will ultimately benefit my workouts, then they’re here to stay.

Primus Lite III, £110, Vivobarefoot