Blootsvoets Geschoeid Netherlands Reviews Freet Vibe 2

Why the Freet Vibe 2 is my favourite Fitness Shoe

Until recently, I was working out in Sketchers despite running a Dutch barefoot shoe blog. Quite embarrassing to admit. I was simply too lazy to invest in proper barefoot fitness shoes, even though my crooked big toe was giving me trouble.

For months, I’d been hearing great things about the Freet Vibe 2 from people in the barefoot scene. Especially in the Facebook group ‘Extra wide Barefoot Shoes Enthusiasts’ where there are tons of Freet-lovers. I decided to put the Vibe 2 to the test over the past weeks, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. This is why:

Why I Chose the Freet Vibe 2

When searching for good fitness shoes for the gym, I specifically wanted a wide model. However, I also needed something lightweight, flexible, and attractive. I've said it before: beyond the barefoot feel and proper fit, looking good matters to me; even at the gym.

Other brands offer proper gym sneakers, but unfortunately, they're too narrow for me. My doctor once described my feet as duck feet, so I truly need to look for the widest brands available. If you don't have wide feet, you might want to explore other fitness shoe options beyond the Freet Vibe 2. There are many excellent alternatives depending on your specific needs.

Getting back to my story; I heard from friends in the barefoot community that the Freet Vibe 2 was highly regarded among regular gym-goers. So I decided to order them from the Freet website.

First impression and gym experience

The shoe package arrived within a week and looked well-presented. I immediately noticed the fit was excellent, and the synthetic material accommodated the protrusion of my hallux valgus perfectly. This is significant because it can reduce pain for me. It's worth noting for others too: the material makes these shoes incredibly soft and flexible. The shoe fits amazingly, leaves no excess space at the front or back, and aligns well with the foot's natural shape. No unusually low instep or other issues. Just a good fit and premium materials. The sole is slightly thicker than I anticipated, but still thin enough to maintain the barefoot feeling. The Freet Vibe 2 also provides sufficient grip for gym workouts.

Why I should have made this switch earlier

Beyond this specific model, switching to barefoot shoes for the gym is something I should have done much sooner. They provide soooo much more balance when lifting weights. Additionally, if you do cardio, it's a perfect way to get accustomed to walking or running in barefoot shoes. In fact, I believe that even non-barefoot wearers would prefer barefoot shoes in the gym if they had the chance to experience them. They provide stability. Exactly what you need when working with weights.

Thick soles cause uneven pressure distribution, for example on the knee. This can lead to problems, especially when deadlifting serious weights. In my view, barefoot shoes are a much better option. Top barefoot shoes for the gym - The Freet Vibe 2 shoes were exactly what I was looking for in barefoot fitness footwear. They're lightweight, wide, flexible, and have a sufficiently stable sole. Additionally, they cost just over €100, making them relatively affordable by barefoot shoe standards; though 'affordable' is always relative. In other words: if you're looking for barefoot gym shoes and have normal to wide feet, you can confidently choose the Freet Vibe 2. 

Want to try some for yourself? Shop here - https://freetbarefoot.com/products/vibe-2