Vivobarefoot Motus vs Stealth: How Do They Compare

Thinking of what to get between the Vivobarefoot Motus and the Stealth? We have put them head to head in a Vivobarefoot Motus vs Stealth contest. It covers a wide range of features and what is not to like about each of them.

What are the Vivobarefoot Motus

Vivobarefoot Motus

The Vivobarefoot Motus are famed for their comfort for a wide variety of activities. Just like with other Vivobarefoot shoes, the Motus helps reduce injuries and also helps improve posture but not so much stability.

The midfoot strap provides extra support especially for activities such as going to the gym. This shoe has a snug midfoot but also provides lots of room for the toes. This feature is both a blessing and a curse. Sizing can be complicated and confusing. 

Average Rating 3.8 out of 5.0 stars

What are Vivobarefoot Stealth

Vivobarefoot Stealth

Vivobarefoot stealth shoes are perfect for running and for daily use as well. They have a durable hex-mesh upper which is made with support and stretch zones. This is to ensure responsive foot control and an adaptive fit. The sole on this shoe is 3mm and allows for maximum sensory feedback and minimum interference.

Average Rating 3.9 out of 5.0 stars

Products Overview

Vivobarefoot Motus shoes are created to be as versatile as you are. The shoes can take you from the track to city-walking with ease. They look great either way and serve the intended purpose.

Some of the shoes’ features are the perfect fit for some wearers whilst some features make the shoe an absolute no-go area.

For some people, a flat outsole is imperative, and if this is you, then the Motus shoe will frustrate you. However, this shoe has many other great qualities, and we take a look at these and what value you will be getting for your money.

The shoes have a 4.5mm drop which is slightly higher than other minimalist shoes and this is not a fan favourite. 

The extra cushioning is great, especially if you transition from regular shoes and are not yet ready to go full minimalist. Stealth shoes are great for daily use as well as for running.

The great thing about this shoe is that it is designed for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned barefoot shoe wearer, these shoes cater to you.

Comparison Criteria

We take a look at the two minimalist shoes, being the Vivobarefoot Motus shoes and stealth shoes. They both have features that are similar and yet also different.

It is these differences that we compare and contrast and hope this will help you find the pair that is best suited for you and what you intend to use them for. We take a look at key factors such as durability, ergonomics, and pricing.

General Pricing Comparison

The pricing of the two shoes is within the same sort of range. The only variables are you are likely to encounter would include the size that you’re buying and availability of that size.

As with other things online platforms tend to change prices based on scarcity. If your size is running low or has been out of stock for while he tends to come at a premier price.

However, under normal circumstances, you will be pleased to find that these shoes are sold within the same sort of price range. Having said that while checking right now I can confirm that the Motus starts at a lower price up for some sizes than the Stealth does.

This is down to the scarcity that we’ve already discussed. The sizes that haven’t sold as many tend to be reduced in price which seems to be the case here.

General Selection Comparison

Any shoe enthusiast, we appreciate the ability to choose from various colors. The Motus comes in colors that you can choose yours from. These include red camo, red-black, black gold, and grey.

There is some versatility that comes with being able to pick from such a varied selection. The first thing to come to mind is the fact that you can use the same shoe at various events and activities.

For instance, the black could pass in a more formal setting than the red one would. Perhaps even the word come I wouldn’t apply if you were seen in red shoes at a formal event they do not blend in.

The black-red would probably do just as well as a formal event except, of course, for the red pot for it.

Which if you are one for accessorizing, you could bear it with something red. This could be in the form of a redshirt or something of the sort. The grey one gives you a bit more subtlety. It’s not a shoe that stands out.

The stealth 2 is available in five colours. You get a similar sort of versatility from this election as well. Having such a very choice allows you to mix and match the shoes with any sort of clothing that you’re wearing.

Borrowing from our formal clothing example earlier we could also say that the black and the black-red could probably pass in was for more events.

As with the other black red, you may need to match it with something else that’s Red for it not to stick out like a sore thumb. The white would be a no-no from was from within. As would the Cordovan. Indigo would be suitable for a casual event.

It’s a sort of shoe that could be worn with all sorts of outfits. The Cordovan could also be matched with similar colours for semi-formal and casual events. As far as versatility goes black will probably win this race closely followed by the Indigo one.

General Durability Comparison

Many purchasers lauded the durability of the product because it was able to withstand rigorous workouts and harsh terrains. Thanks to the shoe construction and material, it can withstand quite a lot.

Parents who buy these for their children say the shoes serve their children well. With the level of durability, the shos offer, you will not need to be replacing them ever so often. They are also recommended for tennis courts and other workouts. 

This shoe is durable and will serve you well as a trainer. It holds up well to the factors that can potentially decrease the durability of the shoe. It feels weighty and robust at 8.4 ounces. The shoes have a puncture-resistant sole, and this increases their durability factor.

General Design Comparison

The Motus is quite a simple design which is not unusual for shoes from this brand. The first thing they will catch your attention is probably the upper part of the shoe which is made out of mesh.

This, of course, is to ensure that the shoes are breathable. You also noticed them strap that runs over the top of the laces.

It is placed in such a way that it’s not invasive. You may not realise that this is great for allowing you a bit more control on how much support your foot is given.

We also love the fact that the strap doesn’t do away with the laces. The colours are probably another thing with mentioning. They go with a simple two-colour palette. Our favourite one is the blue and white one. 

The Stealth is on its second iteration now. From an aesthetic point of view, the first thing that you will notice is how it seems to be built in such a way that it is breathable.

They are my upward and downward little holes in the pattern. This is a V-Web HEX Mesh Upper. It is made to ensure that you get good support as it stretches back and forth as you move.

The V-Web is also there to facilitate the movement of air in and out of the shoes. They do not look like your usual mesh layer. This one has more of a pleasant look to it. Perhaps this depends on the colour that you go with as well.

I guess the colour also comes into the talks when you comes to aesthetics. There are five colours to choose from. There is The Indigo, black, black-red, white and the Cordovan.

You will not see any stitching either. This is courtesy of a no-sew construction system that was used.

Key Features of each brand

Vivobarefoot Motus Shoes

  • This shoe is made for movement. 
  • It features a thin and flexible sole
  • It has a no-drop heel. 
  • It has a wide toe-box which allows your toes to the room they need to spread out fully. 
  • These shoes have a large strap that goes across the midfoot to protect the laces and help secure the shoe as you go about your business.
  • The tip of the shoe has a hard end to guard that protects your toes.

Vivobarefoot stealth shoes

These have a few features that make them a hit. Some of these are:

  • They have a no-Sew Construction. 
  • They are durable
  • They are flexible
  • They have a minimal design
  • They have a V-Web HEX Mesh Upper,  engineered material for support and stretch.
  • They have breathable mesh to keep feet cool.
  • They have a non-marking TPU Outsole, the thinnest and most durable of the Vivo barefoot brand.
  • They have a removable performance insole
  • They are lightweight, weighing 225grams

Soles

The Motus comes with a very strong rubber sole. The design places an emphasis on delivering you soles that are durable. Part of a durable sole is one the is able to take general use without showing early signs of wear and tear.

There is ample tread that will deliver good traction as you move about. This is also aided by the cork insole that has antibacterial properties. You will benefit from good underfoot protection as you go about your day. 

The Stealth 2 comes with the usual 3 mm barefoot so that you can get without the viva bit for products. It gives you a lot of sensory feedback. This allows you to maintain as little interference from the source as possible.

You are able to maintain liberal movement without any entrance from the souls. They protect you from objects under the foot sufficiently. The tread is as you expect from a barefoot sole.

It provides you with a reasonable amount of grip. This is aided by the insoles.

Breathability

What we think about Motus Breathability 

They have a breathable 2ply mesh upper which allows your feet to have the right amount of airflow. The high level of breathability also helps with foot odour and keeping it to a minimum.

The shoes are breathable, thanks to the construction and breathable mesh material, which is also vegan-friendly, so that is a plus. 

What we think about Stealth Breathability

These shoes have a unique breathable mesh upper. It makes them great for your feet on long hikes or for prolonged workouts. 

Insoles

What do we think about Motus Insoles

The Motus comes with a cork insole that is known for its antibacterial properties. It also has an upper layer of foam that delivers you added comfort.

You will also be happy to find that these soles are removable. You can replace them with the same ones or with the thermal ones when it is colder. 

What do we think about Stealth Insoles

The Stealth II comes with a performance insole. This one is designed to facilitate movement at speed without falling apart. You will benefit from the durability that this guarantees. 

Lacing System

What do we think about Motus Lacing System 

The lacing system on the Motus is quite regular. What sets it apart from other shoes is the V-strap that runs above the laces. This holds the mid-foot area a little tighter, ensuring that you have more freedom of movement. 

What do we think about Stealth Lacing System

The Stealth has quite an ordinary lacing system. It is one that you would find on shoes from all kinds of brands. That is not to say there are any deficiencies with it. Most brands use it because it works.

Pros and Cons of each brand

Top pros for Motus

  • This model helps relieve foot, leg, and back pains.
  • They have an impressive grippy outsole.
  • They are lightweight 
  • They are breathable
  • They are comfortable
  • They are durable.

Top pros for Stealth 

  • Vivo barefoot stealth shoes are durable
  • They are rugged
  • They are tough on the road
  • They are stylish. They look good, which means you do not have to worry about changing out of them when you come from the trail, track, or gym.

What we think could be better about the Vivobarefoot Motus

  • The sizing can be a tad confusing. Many wearers find that the length runs large, but the forefoot and the midfoot are too tight.
  • The sole unit is thicker and stiffer than other Vivibarefoot models, which were disliked by a minority of wearers.
  • Several wearers complain about blistering caused by this shoe. Some complained of chaffing on different parts of the foot after wearing them for a while. 
  • We also think they could improve on the closure. The elastic laces seem too short whilst the strap runs too long. 
  • They are pretty costly and out of the reach of many wearers. If you are not yet totally sold on the minimalist way of life, you may not see the need to spend a lot of money on a pair of minimalist shoes. 

What we think could be better about the Stealth 

  • They are expensive. 
  • They do not do too great in the traction department. You may want to be a bit more cautious when you are on a wet or slippery trail. 
  • They fit larger than most shoes.

Verdict

The Vivobarefoot Motus shoe does great in the comfort department. Most wearers have said the shoes keep them stable during workouts and also how they have helped improve their posture.

Some have also said the shoes have helped relieve and ease pain in their lower extremities.

The outsole, however, is thicker than in other minimalist shoes, and some wearers have found this feature to be unwanted and defeating the entire purpose of a minimalist shoe.

Regardless of this factor, this shoe is still very well-liked and preferred, especially for training. The stealth shoes have a true-to-form barefoot design that is low weight and looks good too.

This shoe you can easily wear on the trail and walking around town without looking foolish.

Its unique construction and breathable material make it a great buy. They are a great shoe to train your feet for barefoot running and walking. We hope our comparison and contrast help you get the shoe fit for you. Happy shopping!

Hi there. This is Clare. Dave and I manage this site. We are outdoor enthusiasts. Most of the content is about products that we love using or have researched.
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