Lems Primal2 Minimalist Shoes Let You Tread Lightly with Color

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I reviewed the lightweight, minimalist Lems Primal2 shoes in November of 2013. I’ve been wearing the review pair on and off ever since. I don’t think I’ve ever worn a pair of shoes quite as light, airy, and comfortable. Now the company sent me a pair in a new color-Canary-to check out. They are hard to miss!


When I pulled the $95 Primal2 lightweight shoes from the box, I was taken immediately by the bright color. Unlike my previous review sample, which are an understated black that all-but disappears, these are right there in-your-face minimalist shoes. The design hasn’t changed. They still look like a pair of sneakers with a mesh upper and a relatively thin sole. And while I wouldn’t wear sneakers this color I kinda like the bold look of this new pair.

When I first reviewed the shoes I was a bit hesitant to start wearing them as I was not clear how much support they would offer. Honestly, at the time I had my doubts as to the comfort they could provide. In my initial review I wrote:

“They offer good support. They are a pleasure to walk in. All the rest is commentary. I slipped them on, tied the laces and, within moments, knew that I had a new pair of favorite shoes.”

This time out I had no such concern. I should, however, note that I often wear them with my orthodics in place.


Here’s what the company has to say about the lens.

“We here at Lems Shoes don’t always wear shoes, but when we do we choose the Primal2. If lightweight (6.9oz), flexible, breathable, foot-shaped, and flat are all characteristics that you look for in footwear, than look no further than this shoe. The Primal2 is assembled using a no-sewn construction, which allows the shoe to comfortably form to the natural shape of your foot. Lightweight microsuede and open-weave mesh, allow your foot increased airflow and better breathability. The low-profile 8.0mm LemsRubber™ sole brings you closer to the ground for a more natural stride. Our LemsLast™ design, with its natural foot shape, provides you with that Feelgood Fit that we pride ourselves on. So whether at work, walking the dog, or running errands, the Primal2 is certainly the ‘go to shoe’ for you.”

Specs:

  • Upper: Microsuede + open-weave mesh (100% vegan)
  • Sole: 8.0mm LemsRubber™ injection rubber
  • Insole: Optional removable 3.0mm MoistureWick foam
  • Lining: 100% Moisture-wicking polyester
  • Stack Height: 8.0mm (without removable insole)
  • Drop: 0.0mm
  • Width: 4.2-4.4? (size 43)

The $95 Lems Primal2s are available in a range of different colors and this new Cardinal offering is pretty nice.

If you already love they Primal 2, The new Cardinal color is no different. It uses the same super soft microfiber and breathable air-mesh, but with bright colors that you can be proud to show off!

They fit and feel the same as the pair I reviewed a year and a half ago. The only significant changes are the logos on the top…


…and on the side.


After wearing them for a bit, my summary from the initial review of the Lems Primal2 remains true.

I really love these shoes. They are lightweight, comfortable, and they offer plenty of support. My biggest issue with the shoes is also one of the aspects I appreciate the most — the mesh upper allows air to flow through freely. The downside of this is that, for example, when I was just outside walking in the cold with them my feet felt a bit chilly as the cool air raced through. At the same time, the air flowing through them has, at times, let me to all but forget I am even wearing shoes. I kid you not! Check out all their offerings here.

Source: Manufacturer’s supplied review sample of the Lems Primal2

What I Like: Comfortable; Plenty of support in a light pair of shoes; Airflow through the shoes keeps your feet cool

What Needs Improvement: Airflow through the shoes lets your feet get cold when the temperature drops; You will either love or hate the new color

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About the Author

Dan Cohen
Having a father who was heavily involved in early laser and fiber-optical research, Dan grew up surrounded by technology and gadgets. Dan’s father brought home one of the very first video games when he was young and Dan remembers seeing a “pre-release” touchtone phone. (When he asked his father what the “#” and “*” buttons were his dad said, “Some day, far in the future, we’ll have some use for them.”) Technology seemed to be in Dan’s blood but at some point he took a different path and ended up in the clergy. His passion for technology and gadgets never left him. Dan is married to Raina Goldberg who is also an avid user of Apple products. They live in New Jersey with their golden doodle Nava.