Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Review for Powerlifting
I just got the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength and I wanted to post a review for anyone interested in powerlifting in them. These are marketed as a more durable barefoot shoe for the gym and I have to say the grip is fantastic. I felt very stable during my deadlifts this morning.
The upper feels much more secure than their standard models which is great for lateral movements. However I am still getting used to the total lack of cushion during my heavy squats. It really forces you to engage your feet and maintain your arch. I train in Vancouver and I love how these feel on the wooden platforms.
Are there any other barefoot fans here who use these for their main lifts? I am curious if you think they are worth the premium price over just a basic flat shoe. I really like the wide toe box and the zero drop feel so far.
Alright, VancouverDave, don't leave us hanging! What's the verdict? Are they actually good for powerlifting? I've been eyeing them but wasn't sure if they'd hold up for heavy squats and deadlifts.
Yeah, spill the beans! I'm currently just lifting in socks for deads and my old Chucks for squats. Always looking for something better that isn't super expensive but still gives good ground feel.
@A4tech, totally agree. My main concern is stability under heavy load. Are they stiff enough laterally? Some barefoot shoes feel a bit flimsy for anything over 3 plates.
Barefoot shoes for powerlifting? Nah, I'm skeptical. Give me a solid pair of squat shoes with a heel or just go completely barefoot for deadlifts. Anything in between always feels like a compromise that doesn't really excel at either.
@IronMaidenUK, I get the skepticism, but minimalist shoes can offer surprising benefits. The wide toe box allows for better toe splay, improving foot stability and connection to the ground. It's about maximizing your proprioception, which can be huge for deadlifts and low-bar squats, not just heel height.
How's the sole thickness on the Motus Strength? For deadlifts, I want to be as close to the floor as possible. Some 'barefoot' shoes still have a bit too much stack height for my liking. Is it comparable to a pair of Vans or thinner?
@PowerPete, from my experience with other Vivobarefoots, they're usually pretty thin. Thinner than Vans for sure, more like a true minimalist feel. You definitely feel the floor. Great for deads, not so much for squatting if you need a heel lift.
Anyone know if these run true to size? I've had issues with Vivobarefoot sizing in the past, sometimes a bit small or narrow. Don't wanna order the wrong size.
Echoing @CoachCelestine's point. I switched to minimalist shoes for all my lifting a few years ago and my foot strength and ankle mobility have improved massively. My deadlift form feels way more solid now. It takes some getting used to though!
How do these handle squats? Specifically, do they offer enough stability or does the zero-drop make it tricky for those who rely on a slight heel for depth?
@SquatKing, it really depends on your ankle mobility for squats. If you have good ankle dorsiflexion, zero-drop shoes can be excellent as they encourage a more natural foot position. If you're used to weightlifting shoes with a raised heel, these will feel very different and might expose mobility limitations.
Been a barefoot lifter for years! Love my other Vivos but haven't tried the Motus Strength. If they're more durable, that's a huge plus. My Primus Lites wear out fast.
@Dragustav, that's a crucial distinction. For individuals with limited ankle mobility, a zero-drop shoe for squats can force compensation patterns, potentially leading to discomfort or poor form. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, but a great option for those with the prerequisite mobility.
Durability is my biggest question. Vivos can be pricey, so I need them to last. How are they holding up to heavy gym use, especially the sole and upper materials?
@LifterLass, I found them true to size, maybe a tiny bit generous in the toe box, which is good for splay. I usually wear a 9.5 and the 9.5 in the Motus Strength fit perfectly.
Are they worth the price tag though? Vivos are a bit steep compared to, say, some cheap canvas plimsolls or even just going sock-footed. What makes these worth the investment?
@UK_Lifter, you're investing in foot health and biomechanics, not just a shoe. The wide toe box, zero drop, and thin, flexible sole all contribute to strengthening your feet and improving proprioception. For serious lifters, that's often worth the premium to prevent issues down the line.
@CaliMuscle, I've had good luck with Vivobarefoot durability overall. The soles usually last ages, it's often the upper where I see wear, especially if it's a knit material. The Motus Strength looks a bit more robust in its construction than some of their other models, so I'm optimistic.
I'm a big fan of the wide toe box for lifting. My feet feel so much more stable and powerful when they're not squished. Vivobarefoot usually nails that aspect. Good to hear these are durable too!