Barefoot shoes have become increasingly popular of the last five or so years for their potential benefits to foot health and natural movement. (Read more about barefoot benefits). I recently had the opportunity to put the NEW FeelGrounds Move, their latest 2024 release, to the test. After weeks of wearing them for everything from work to workouts, I’m ready to share my experience.
For full transparency, I wear the Feelgrounds Winter Patrol boot as my main winter footwear.
Product: FeelGrounds Move
Price: £120
Verdict: 9/10
Short Description: A solid barefoot training shoe.
Pros: Wide toe box, zero drop, well-ventilated.
Cons: Summer only.
First Impressions of the Feelground Move shoes: Sleek and Minimalist
Out of the box, the Move impressed with its sleek, minimalist barefoot design. Everything barefoot shoe is here, incredible thin zero drop sole, wide toe box which is roomy. All in all the shoes is minimal in every respect, just the way barefoot shoes should be.
The breathable knit upper made with natural TENCEL™ Lyocell feel soft and look stylish. The shoe is incredibly lightweight, weighing in at just 286 grams, and the thin, flexible sole truly delivers that barefoot feel.
Comfort and Fit: Like a Second Skin
The Move lives up to its promise of comfort. The foot-shaped wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, and the zero-drop design promotes a natural gait. The unique lacing system allows for a customizable fit, ensuring optimal support without feeling restrictive. I found the shoes to be comfortable right out of the box, with no break-in period required.
Performance: Versatile and Functional
I wore the Move footwear for a variety of activities, including daily wear, work, gym workouts, running errands and driving. The shoes performed admirably in all situations. The thin sole provides excellent ground feel and proprioception( proprioception is the sense of body position, movement, and force), which is beneficial for balance and stability. The flexibility of the sole allows for a natural range of motion. Whether I was lifting weights, driving or simply walking around town, the Move felt comfortable and reactive to the situation, giving me a full sensation of the environment.
Features and Benefits of the Move Barefoot shoe.
- Zero-drop, thin, flexible sole: Promotes natural foot movement and strengthens foot muscles.
- Anatomically shaped toe box: Allows toes to splay naturally for improved balance and stability.
- Breathable knit upper with TENCEL™ Lyocell: Keeps feet cool and dry, even during intense activity.
- Customisable lacing system: Ensures a secure and supportive fit.
- Removable insole: Provides additional cushioning and can be removed for a more minimalist feel.
- Vegan-friendly and machine-washable: Easy to care for and environmentally conscious.
Tech Specs
- Stack height: 4mm
- Weight: 286 grams
- Upper: TENCEL™ Lyocell & spandex
- Sole: Recyclable rubber
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable
- Lightweight and flexible
- Breathable and odor-minimising
- Promotes natural foot movement
- Vegan-friendly and machine-washable
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Minimal protection from the elements
- May not be suitable for all terrains (hiking, trail running, wet and muddy environments)
- Some may find the minimalist feel too extreme
Here are some use cases for the FeelGrounds Move barefoot shoes, tailored for both outdoor and fitness activities:
Outdoor Use Cases Fore Barefoot Shoes
- Walking and Hiking on well-maintained paths: The Move’s thin, flexible sole provides an excellent ground feel, making it ideal for exploring nature on well-maintained paths. The breathable upper will keep your feet comfortable even on warmer days.
- Urban Exploration and Travel: The lightweight design and minimalist feel of the Move make it a great travel companion. You can comfortably walk for miles sightseeing or exploring new cities without feeling weighed down.
- Casual Everyday Wear: Thanks to its stylish design, the Move can easily transition from the gym to the streets. Wear them for running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Fitness-Specific Use Cases
- Gym Workouts and Functional Fitness: The Move’s flexibility and zero-drop design allow for a natural range of motion, making it suitable for various gym exercises, including weightlifting, bodyweight training, and functional fitness routines.
- Yoga and Pilates: The Move’s barefoot feel enhances balance and proprioception, crucial for yoga and Pilates practice. The thin sole allows for a better connection to the ground, improving stability and control during poses.
- Dance: The lightweight construction and flexible sole make the Move a good option for general indoor dance classes. The shoe allows for natural foot articulation and freedom of movement.
- Minimalist Running and Walking: For those already accustomed to barefoot-style running or walking, the Move can be a great option.
Additional Considerations of this Barefoot Training Shoe
- Weather Conditions: The Move is designed for breathability with its original mesh design, which is not ideal in cold or wet conditions. Consider wearing them with socks or choosing a different shoe for inclement weather. Fellgrounds Winter Patrol Boot is a cracking winter barefoot option.
- Terrain: The thin sole of the Move provides minimal protection from sharp objects or rough terrain. Exercise caution when walking or running on uneven surfaces.
- Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes: If you’re new to barefoot shoes, it’s essential to transition gradually to allow your feet and muscles to adapt. Start with shorter durations and gradually increase your wear time.
Remember, the best way to determine if the FeelGrounds Move is right for you is to try them on and see how they feel. With its combination of comfort, performance, and minimalist design, the Move is a versatile shoe that can enhance your outdoor and fitness experiences.
Overall Verdict
The FeelGrounds Move is a fantastic barefoot shoe that delivers on its promises of comfort, performance, and natural movement. Whether you’re a seasoned barefoot enthusiast or simply looking for a comfortable and healthy shoe for everyday wear, the Move is definitely worth considering. It’s a versatile and stylish option that will help you move naturally and feel great.
Who Should Buy the FeelGrounds Move
- Anyone looking for a comfortable and healthy barefoot shoe for everyday wear
- People who want to improve their foot health and strengthen their feet
- Those who enjoy a minimalist feel and natural movement
- Anyone looking for a stylish and versatile barefoot shoe
Conclusion of FeelGrounds Move Review
When it comes to Barefoot shoe design unlike running, hiking etc there are set things you look for so there can not be by definition huge variation in the design. Barefoot shoes after all, be they waterproof boots, hiking shoes, running trainers or gym shoes they have to be flexible, with zero drop and a wide toe box and FeelGrounds as a brand does each of these exceptionally. If you’re ready to experience the freedom and benefits of barefoot movement, the FeelGrounds Move is an excellent choice. It’s a shoe that will help you connect with your body and move naturally, all while looking and feeling great.
Remember: Transitioning to barefoot shoes should be done gradually. Start by wearing them for short periods and gradually increase the duration as your feet adapt.
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