These are my 4th pair of different Softstar Shoes, whilst I could not pick a favorite. These are definitely on par with my other shoes from them.
I ordered these as I wanted a multi purpose minimalist shoe, that could be used for all my summer training needs. Over the summer I am looking to improve my lean body mass in the Gym, compete in the Concept2 indoor rowing rankings, and keep my running going over shorter distances of 1 mile, 5k and 10k.
These are perfect for my training. They are extremely lightweight, almost like a second skin. They are also extremely minimalist, with an ultra thin vibram sole of only 2mm. However don’t worry you get a lot of grip out of them 2mm, without ever feeling like your foot is being forced into unnatural positions. They weigh a measly 5oz, so you barely feel like you are wearing anything at all. The outer shoe is handmade from very soft leather, which I have found from my other shoes is still very long lasting. Whilst the leather isn’t water resistant, you can wipe the shoe clean really easily when needed and they end up looking like new.
My other shoes are all lace shoes. This one is different, it is a pull on. My shoe size is right between a 9 and a 10 on their size guide. So I went with the 9, due to it being a slip on. This was the correct choice as they fit perfectly. What makes them an excellent slip on shoe, is that there is a built in Breathe-O-Prene® interior. Which provides a moisture-wicking and odour preventing aspect to the shoe. With this in mind it makes the usage of socks redundant, although you can wear them if you want to.
I have been wearing and running in minimalist shoes for 2 years now, and even I found these to have very thin soles and I have ran a marathon in sandals. So if you are thinking of buying these, you will need to have some experience in minimalist shoes or be prepared to use them sparingly until your feet get used to having less support.
They have proved to be very useful in the Gym. When you are Squatting and Deadlifting, it is important in my opinion to wear a zero drop shoe like these. You want to have your feet in natural angles so you are recruiting the correct muscles. This will lessen the chances of being injured. The same applies to my concept2 rowing. By wearing zero drop shoes, my feet lay flat against the foot paddle. Ensuring the best possible foot position. This again will lessen the chances of injury in my opinion.
I have been wearing them on the running track at the gym, and I do enjoy running in them on the track. However when I run off track, I prefer to wear the Primal’s as they provide a bit more protection and peace of mind for me.
All in all I highly recommend these shoes.
If you enjoyed this post, I would love it if you took the time to make a small donation to help keep this blog going, you can make a donation for any amount you would like here.
You can also add a little fat to my pan by looking into my offers on Ambassadorships/Sponsorship’s, Product Reviews, Paid Promotions or buy one of my Keto & Carnivore inspired Apparel items.
You can catch me on:
Instagram, Twitter, Facebook Page, Reddit sub, Strava Club, Ketogenic Endurance Clothing
Softstar Shoes provided me these shoes in exchange for an honest review.
Leave a Reply