top of page
barefootshoereview

Episode 20 : Feelgrounds Original

Updated: Mar 7, 2021


Introduction:

The Original is exactly like it's name and was the original shoe that Feelgrounds used to launch their growing brand. We've been following this brand since their Indie gogo days and watched as the owner of the company, Johannes Brenner, developed his dream into a living minimalist shoe brand.


I've had my eyes on this particular shoe for a while and couldn't wait to try it out.


The Original comes in 8 different colours, all quite minimal and wearable. In addition they're also machine washable which is a great plus when thinking about buying.


Click here to access the Feelgrounds website - with our affiliate link, where we will receive a small commission.

(Disclaimer: These shoes were given to me to review, however my opinion is my own).

Company Overview:

"We are a young team of innovators. Our mission is to make barefoot shoes available and appealing to more people.


We launched our first sneakers model in April 2019 on Indiegogo and raised over $250,000 due to the massive support of our amazing backers. Feelgrounds™ was funded within 48 hours.


We're planning to expand our range of models and styles in the future, while continually striving to build better footwear."

Initial Impressions:

  • Soft upper

  • Breathable

  • The mesh moulded to your foot automatically

  • Flexible

  • Great cushioning

  • Trendy and stylish look

Sizing and Fit:

My foot is approximately 235 mm, with a large big toe. I went for a 38eu in these shoes and they were a perfect fit. They had a good amount of room at the front, just as I like them.


They have a helpful sizing page on their website where you can work out what size you might need before ordering which you can find here. According to the chart I would need a 37eu but after trying a number of different barefoot shoes I prefer to go up 1 size for comfort and that is a personal choice. I like having plenty of movement and no pressure on my feet.

Materials:

  • Outsole: the outsole is thin yet has a good amount of protection and is flexible. It's rubbery bottom allows for a non slip grip and cushioning.

  • Perforated insole: Great cushioning on your feet for long walks

  • Upper material: The upper is mesh. It's very soft, flexible and breathable.

Performance:

I took these for a spin at the gym and think they're great for doing weights, pottering around the gym and walking on the treadmill. Due to getting a bigger size I have a bit of excess room at the front so I didn't feel like they were the best fit for me for running. But, that's not to say they wouldn't be great for running. I like these because I can wear them to work, then to the gym and maybe out for dinner afterwards.


They're quite flexible so they're good for exercising and being able to launch yourself forward. I enjoy wearing them for work, going for walks and they're comfortable enough to wear daily.

Technical Specifications:

Upper: 100% Recycled PET mesh

Lining: 100% Recycled PET mesh

Stack Height: 5mm

Sole: Special Footwear TPE (recyclable)

Drop: 0mm

Weight: 177 g / 6.2 oz (Size EUR 41)

Conclusion:

I've been looking for the perfect barefoot sneaker that would go with everything in my wardrobe and would still look really trendy, and these Feelgrounds have fit the bill. They have been even better than I expected and would definitely purchase another colour in the future. They're so comfortable and they have just the right amount of protection on the bottom to cushion my foot and enable me to wear them all day. I've been wearing them a lot and they have withstood getting dirty and I love that the mesh doesn't crease like leather would, making them the perfect shoe for daily wear.


Click here to access the Feelgrounds website - with our affiliate link!


Jade - TBSR


Comments


bottom of page