They say that the key to finding the perfect running shoe is choosing the one that brings you the most comfort. Well, get ready to marvel at the lightness, nimbleness, smoothness and fast-feel of the LONOWEAR FLOW which is a low cost, high performance minimalist shoe that is noticeably softer, wider and more responsive than most minimalist shoes. You’ll also surely appreciate that the entire construction of the FLOW was designed with environmental-friendliness in mind!
The FLOW, which is one of the softest, most comfortable barefoot shoes on the market, is also very functional and versatile and can handle any distance at any effort level on most terrains. I actually foresee this shoe quickly rising to top-end shoe status, and here’s why:
What’s the FLOW Good For?
The FLOW’S exceptionally lasting comfort delivers a forgiving ride at various paces, distances and terrains! More specific, the FLOW really stands out as one of the best minimalist shoes that’s very stable, cozy, yet energetic for fast-paced track workouts, road races of any distances and delivers a rebound, snappy ride on mild-to-moderately technical trails.
These barefoot cruisers aren’t just made for running, they are just as perfect for walking, hiking and provides endless comfort for golfing, any gym workout, CrossFit and workdays of endless standing.
Last but not least, the FLOW is a go-to style for casual wear, and its barefoot ergonomics is perfect for those with foot issues!
Sole Specifications
Like a true minimalist shoe, the magic of the FLOW resides in its soft, yet rugged sole because its completely flat (zero drop), thin, wide and flexible which are all essential elements that promote a safe and efficient forefoot running stride (check here to see what a proper forefoot looks like), while preventing wobble and increasing stability when zipping over tricky terrain.
Most notably is the soles unbelievably softness and forgiving ride that really excels in comfort on harder surfaces, while supplying reliable traction to tackle the dirt, thanks to the soles full coverage of an array of tightly spaced 3-point low-protruding lugs and deeper grooves, shown below. The sole also features extra tread at the very front and back of the shoe for added grip for a more stable ride.
Another important factor of the sole is its fully flexible which allows the back and the front of the shoe to move independently and allows the entire sole to follow the path of your foot through the forefoot strike cycle. A fully flexible sole also makes you run more safe on uneven terrain because your foot is more adaptable and steadied.
As for ground-feel, this shoe is the perfect “Goldilocks” shoe as the FLOW is not too cushy and not too barefoot-feeling, but cushy enough to make long runs feel short, and barefoot-feeling enough to keep all aspects of your stride where it should be while making you adaptable and confident across all sorts of terrain.
Upper Specifications
The geometry of the upper performs just as intended with its pronouncedly wide, expansive toe-box, allowing extra room in the front for fuller toe splay to promote foot health and tighter balance control.
The upper is made of a supple foot-hugging woven, breathable mesh that packs loads of comfort and durability to go long and hard on the roads, trails and the gym.
The upper seems top-tier durable because the materials are thicker and quite hearty, which also provides excellent warmth in cooler weather, but without socks, the upper breathes well in the front, keeping your feet feeling cool and fresh!
You’ll also enjoy that the FLOW does not have a tongue, so there’s no fussing with tongue-shifting, and the absence of a tongue keeps your foot more contained in the shoe, while giving a more sock-like fit and natural feel!
You’ll also find handy the reinforced protective toe strip (shown below) that also adds an extra layer of durability and structure without compromising weight.
Final Thoughts
The FLOW by LONOWEAR is an absolute minimalist gem because it offers the perfect blend of barefoot-feel and outstanding comfort, making every walk, run, hike, or workout more comfortable. These shoes will never make you feel sluggish or slow, which is why the FLOW is such an excellent all-around shoe for any long haul!
As for durability, which is such a pressing issue of most minimalist shoes because the materials need to be thin and flimsy to get that barefoot-sensation, but often, this causes the shoe to lack structure, making the shoe prone to pre-mature damage, but this is not the case with the FLOW. This shoe can definitely take a beating, and the shoe feels impressively stable at any pace on harsh terrains.
What I love most about all barefoot shoes, including the LONOWEAR FLOW is that you never have to fight with the shoe because the FLOW is a complete ergonomic compliment to the natural shape and function of your foot, regardless of how wide your foot is. The LONOFLOW is beyond comfortable, propulsive and fast, so give your feet the royal treatment they need and check’em out here: LONOWEAR FLOW
Bretta Riches
BSc Neurobiology; MSc Biomechanics candidate, ultra minimalist runner & founder of RunForefoot. I was a heel striker, always injured. I was inspired by the great Tirunesh Dibaba to try forefoot running. Now, I'm injury free. This is why I launched Run Forefoot, to advocate the health & performance benefits of forefoot running and to raise awareness on the dangers of heel striking, because the world needs to know.
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