v trek vs v alpha

PAULINA'S LIFESTYLE

reiki therapy | detox |  healthy lifestyle

• Jul 12, 2021

Vibram Fivefingers V-Alpha vs V-Trek vs V-Trail 2.0 vs Leguano Aktiv

I can't remember the last time I wore high-heels, although I know woman’s leg looks beautiful in them. Once I stepped onto the barefoot / zero-drop path, there was no turning back from it. It melted into it completely.

The idea of wearing barefoot / zero-drop shoes is gaining more and more followers, which makes me incredibly happy. These are such wonderful shoes, which imitate barefoot walking (which is how it should be originally) and allow our feet to move naturally, unobstructed, supporting and shaping the muscles that have been "forgotten" by our body. (as a result of wearing other traditional stiff shoes). In addition, they give relief to the joints, spine and improve the quality of walking. Depending on the purpose, there are different models. Sometimes they may differ only in small details, nevertheless they are clearly physically noticeable.

There is no denying that when wearing these shoes, you have to learn to walk again. However, the difference you will feel is indescribable, in a positive sense. If you are a beginner, I advise you to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and don't show off- it takes 13 weeks for your foot to adapt to the shoes and the new style of walking (I think you get a 13-week breakdown with every purchased model of Vibram Fivefingers).

I use barefoot shoes for everyday walking and trekking. As for me, these are my prime criteria for choosing and using these shoes. I used to use them for running, but currently trekking in the mountains is the best form of physical activity for me.

Personally, I have been using the Leguano Aktiv for everyday walking for a long time (flat surfaces like asphalt, going shopping, etc). However, when it comes to mountain expeditions - I use Vibram Fivefingers.

I would have bought the V-Trail 2.0, but unfortunately they were disqualified by me because of the inner seams - you can't wear them without the socks (special five-fingers socks). This does not suit me as I like to wear barefoot shoes on a bare foot.

The V-Trek boots are a great option because of the purpose that manufacturer gave them- for trekking. However, despite the perfect fit on my foot, they didn't quite suit me and I had to give them up. The V-Alpha, on the other hand, meets my expectations. I tested them on many surfaces, uphill, downhill, sand, grass, stones, branches, asphalt, concrete, water, light mud, etc. Below I give you the main pros and cons of the four models, determined by my subjective opinion.

LEGUANO AKTIV

- super soft sole, best imitating barefoot walking (better than Vibram Fivefingers)

- soft material of the shoe, can hardly feel it, maximum comfort

- the look of the shoe is normal- you don't look like an orangutan :)

- the material is a bit thick, not really suitable for wearing in hot weather

- when going down the leg is not stable, the shoe is suitable for everyday walking, not for active mountain/forest trails

- sole too soft for mountain/forest trails (in the sense that it wears out quickly and does not have a good grip)

VIBRAM FIVEFINGERS V-TREK

- tough sole, suitable for extremely harsh conditions while remaining flexible (4mm)

- lace-up binding and higher boot (partially covering the ankle) allows for a better fit to the foot

- the sole is too hard for a barefoot shoe (4mm), taking away the barefoot feeling

- the back of the shoe causes pain when walking, which cannot be regulated by the shoe-laces

- boots have a specific unpleasant smell, a bit fishy. I don't know if it's the glue that's used or the material itself, but the smell is unpleasant and you can't get rid of it

VIBRAM FIVEFINGERS V-ALPHA

- ideal sole thickness for mountain walking, forest walking, trekking, etc. (3.7mm)

- incredible grip of the sole to the ground in various conditions

- fantastic grip of each individual toe, thanks to which the comfort of walking uphill and downhill is tip top

- thin breathable yet durable material, perfect even for hot days

- when entering water, you can feel a slight hollow spaces, "splashing in the shoe", which does not give comfort for further walking (unless with a sock)

- the seams between the big toe and the next toe come apart quickly, giving the impression that the shoe is about to break (and sometimes it does). Definitely something the manufacturer should improve on when designing the next model

VIBRAM FIVEFINGERS V-TRAIL 2.0

- ideal sole thickness (3.7mm)

- breathable material, but not as cool as in V-Alpha

- better stitching solution between the big toe and the next toe - seams do not split

- when entering water on the trail the shoe still fits well and there is no „splashing” discomfort

- can’t be worn without socks really, as the stitching on the inside toes causes corns on the toes

- in my opinion more suitable for trail running than trekking

I wouldn't replace Fivefingers with any other shoes for trekking. Once you get into these shoes, you can't go back to the hard stiff traditional mountain shoes. The comfort is simply indescribable, it has to be experienced but also liked.

The only time I put barefoot aside is in late autumn because it is very rainy / winter because it is cold and wet / and sometimes early spring (snowmelt, mud, wet). I find it hard to switch back then to the stiff shoes.

I hope the article was useful and valuable. Remember that every foot is different and what suits me, may not suit you. However it is always good to read different opinions before you decide to buy these shoes to find out which model may be the best option for you. If anyone has any questions, hesitations, feel free to ask ma a question.

May the force be with you!

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The 4mm/3.7mm thickness you mentioned is only the outer sole. but they also have mid-soles. 4mm for v-trek and 2mm for v-alpha. So the total thickness is v-trek 8mm and v-alpha 5.7mm.

Hi Paulina,

Your article and detailed reviews were exactly what I was looking for, and much more. I was puzzled while choosing between V-Alpha and V-Trail 2.0. I am looking for something for day-to-day walks, mountain walks, and most importantly, for running (on asphalt as well as on gym treadmill). It seems V-Alpha is more suitable for me, but your alert about the seam wearing off is also very important. I am looking for durability. I guess I will try to find the suitable socks, so that I can use V-Trail 2.0. Thanks!

Vibram Fivefingers V-Trek review

Our verdict

• Our top pick in best shoes for light hiking
• Top-notch comfort
• Superior level of protection
• Powerful grip and traction
• Glove-like fit
• Incredibly Supportive
• Durably built
• Performs consistently in the cold
• Quick drying
• Needs breaking in
• Hard to put on

Audience verdict

• Top 1% in barefoot hiking shoes

The most similar hiking shoes compared

Who should buy

We recommend the Vibram Fivefingers V-Trek as an excellent companion to hikers: 

• In the market for an insanely lightweight shoe that feels like barefoot hiking
• That prefer a minimal hiking shoe with lots of ground feel that's still comfy and protective
• Who hike in colder temperatures frequently and need a shoe that’s consistent year-round
• In need of a shoe that dries quickly and doesn’t take up much space in a pack
• Are willing to experiment with a truly unique hiking shoe

Who should NOT buy

The Fivefingers V-Trek suffer from sub-par breathability that means it will feel rather toasty in the summertime. Those who want a more breathable option to avoid sweaty feet should consider the Salomon Outpulse instead. 

The Fivefingers V-Trek’s subtle lugs make it a less-than-ideal choice for very gravelly or muddy trails. For a hiking shoe with more aggressive lugs that will bite into just about any surface, we recommend the Merrel Moab 3 which is also much easier to slip on and off quickly. 

We don’t recommend the Fivefingers V-Trek to beginner hikers as the shoe’s unique design takes some getting used to. We recommend the KEEN NXIS Speed as a more traditionally shaped alternative that requires little to no breaking in.

Breathability

We pumped the Fivefingers V-Trek full of smoke to get a visual idea of how breathable it is. As the video demonstrates, the shoe only lets out a stream of smoke through the porous tongue initially until it eventually seeps through the synthetic upper material in staggering wisps. This lackluster performance leads us to give the Fivefingers V-Trek a breathability score of 2 out of 5. While not the worst result, it does mean that sweaty feet are inevitable during warmer treks. 

The well-insulated nature of this shoe is clear to see when inspecting a backlit cross-section of the upper and seeing how it entirely blocks any light from shining through. 

Looking at the Fivefingers V-Trek under our microscope reveals that there are almost no gaps whatsoever for air to flow between the tightly woven fibers that make up the shoe’s upper.

Toebox durability

First up to face the Dremel in our battery of durability tests is the Fivefingers V-Trek’s toebox. Spinning at 5K RPM, we applied the tool’s grinding element to one of the rubber-reinforced toes with 3.2N of force. 

After a false start and failing to get a good grip on the shoe for four seconds, we found that our tool had only managed to scrape off the protective nubs and scuff the shoe’s upper material. This leads us to give the Fivefingers V-Trek a better-than-expected toebox durability score of 4 out of 5.

Heel padding durability

Despite having very little padding to protect, the Fivefingers V-Trek’s heel counter put up an even more valiant effort against our Dremel. 

Once the four-second test had run its course, we found that the tool had merely frayed the lining in a way that had no perceptible effect on the shoe’s lockdown, thus leading us to give it a perfect 5 out of 5 for heel padding durability.

Outsole hardness

The Fivefingers V-Trek’s outsole is remarkably soft, giving us a durometer reading of only 65 HC. On the one hand, this implies excellent grip as the rubber is pliable enough to really bite into surfaces to provide strong traction. On the other hand, however, it doesn’t bode well regarding its durability which will be put to the test in the next section. 

The softness of the rubber also serves to soften the impacts of our landings as we walk in a way that nicely complements the shoe’s scant midsole cushioning.

Outsole durability

This time spinning at 10K RPM, we unleashed our Dremel for its third and final outing against the Fivefingers V-Trek’s outsole for twenty abrasive seconds. 

Once the dust had settled, we used a tire tread gauge to measure the extent of the damage and found that 1.12 mm of rubber had been eaten away over the course of the test. This puts the Fivefingers V-Trek’s outsole on par with our current lab average and means that we expect it to last a good 400 to 500 miles before showing any major signs of wear and tear.

Outsole thickness

The outsole is slightly thicker than average at 3 mm thick according to our caliper measurements.

At 6.5 oz (184g), the Fivefingers V-Trek is the poster child for a barely-there hiking shoe. Wearing them feels like having reinforced feet, allowing our movements to feel natural and nimble as we traversed the trails. 

The Fivefingers V-Trek is about as minimal as it gets, with a heel stack that’s only 9.9 mm thick according to our caliper measurements. This is much lower than our current lab average which contributes to the shoe’s barefoot feel. 

Forefoot stack

The Fivefingers V-Trek’s stack is actually slightly higher at the forefoot, measuring 10.7 mm thick based on our caliper measurements. This is still much shorter than the average hiking shoe and means that we enjoyed maximum ground feel while testing this shoe. 

The difference in our stack measurements leaves the Fivefingers V-Trek with a negative heel drop of -0.8 mm.

This, for all intents and purposes, feels like a zero-drop shoe which is ideal for those who prefer a more natural, parallel-to-the-ground walking experience as opposed to having an elevated heel. 

Midsole softness

The thin strip of foam that makes up the Fivefingers V-Trek’s midsole is extremely plush, giving us a durometer reading of 13.5 HA.

This is much softer than average and serves to provide us with a certain level of protective impact dampening however, the low-profile nature of the shoe means we aren’t really able to savor the softness of the foam before it bottoms out.

Difference in midsole softness in cold

We placed the Fivefingers V-Trek in the freezer for twenty minutes in order to see what effect cold conditions have on the midsole. Once sufficiently chilled, the Fivefingers V-Trek gave us a durometer reading of 16.1 HA. While becoming 19.5% firmer post-freezer makes the Fivefingers V-Trek about as consistent as the average hiking shoe between warm and cold conditions, this is still a remarkably soft reading. As such, the Fivefingers V-Trek should feel just as protective and comfortable underfoot during frigid winter hikes.

Lateral stability test

While the Fivefingers V-Trek does rock from side to side quite significantly as we shift our weight from side to side, the low-profile, barefoot nature of the shoe means that we feel extremely well-balanced while walking in this shoe. 

Torsional rigidity

We were basically able to wring out the Fivefingers V-Trek with how little resistance the shoe offered as we bent and twisted it in our hands, leading us to give it a torsional rigidity score of 1 out of 5. This means that the shoe easily conforms to the contortions of our foot throughout our stride, further contributing to how natural and barely-there the Fivefingers V-Trek feels. 

Heel counter stiffness

The Fivefingers V-Trek’s heel counter has little structure to it and is also extremely pliable in the face of our manual manipulations, earning it another score of 1 out of 5. As such, the shoe doesn’t do much to hold the rearfoot in place which feels quite easy and comfortable on our tendons. However, this lack of structure means that we have to exercise caution in this shoe as rolled ankles aren't beyond the realm of possibility. 

Midsole width in the forefoot

At 104.5 mm wide at the forefoot, the Fivefingers V-Trek’s midsole is slightly narrower than our current lab average, though this didn’t present us with any stability issues over the course of testing this shoe. 

Midsole width in the heel

Back at the heel the midsole is significantly narrower than average at only 64.2 mm wide. This definitely takes some getting used to, but means that the shoe is better able to wrap around the foot for a more secure lockdown. 

Flexibility

We secured the Fivefingers V-Trek to our workbench and, using a force gauge, found that only 2N of force is needed to bend the shoe to 90 degrees. This is an incredibly flexible result that makes the Fivefingers V-Trek the most pliable shoe we've tested in the lab so far. 

As such, the shoe puts up almost no resistance to the natural flexion of our foot which greatly contributes to the shoe's comfy and forgiving ride that doesn't feel like having shoes on at all. 

Difference in stiffness in cold

After leaving the shoe in the freezer for twenty minutes, we also repeated the stiffness test and found that the shoe stiffened at about the same rate as the average Hiking shoe. That being said, with only 2.5N of force needed to bend it to the desired point, the Fivefingers V-Trek remains much more flexible than average and will still conform with the natural flexion of our foot no matter how cold the surroundings are. 

Grip / Traction

Despite the lugs being shorter than our current lab average at only 2.1 mm, they provided us with excellent grip and traction over a variety of surfaces, whether dry or wet, during our test hikes. 

Size and fit

Toebox width at the widest part.

Using our caliper, we measured the Fivefingers V-Trek’s toebox to be 99.4 mm wide at its widest point. This is right on par with our current lab average and means that it should accommodate most foot shapes except those that are very broad. 

Toebox width at the big toe

Unlike most shoes, the Fivefingers V-Trek’s toebox tapers to become wider towards the toes, measuring 108.8 mm wide around the big toe.

This is much wider than average, giving our toes plenty of clearance to ensure that they slip into their respective toe holes with ease, regardless of foot shape.

Tongue: gusset type

The Fivefingers V-Trek's tongue is non-gusseted, though we didn't experience any issues with slippage thanks to the shoe's snug fit that feel like it;s wrapped around our foot. 

Tongue padding

The Fivefingers V-Trek features a handy finger loop at the heel that's useful for grabbing onto as we try and squeeze our foot through the tight hole. 

Removable insole

In the pursuit of keeping the shoe as minimal as possible, the Fivefingers V-Trek doesn't feature an insole to begin with. 

Lab test results

Specs (official).

The Runninger

Vibram FiveFingers V-Alpha – Review

Earlier this year I began my first foray into running in Vibram Fivefingers shoes. After giving them a solid three months of running they’ve found a home in my rotation of footwear. Vibram have a really niche product in the minimal footwear market. They have a large range of fivefinger models which suit every terrain and minimal runner.

After some research on the fivefinger models I settled on the V-Alpha. They seemed the best all-round performer for road and trail. The V-Alpha is quite a minimal shoe, underfoot is just 3.7mm of Vibram rubber sole and a 2mm EVA insole. At less than 6 mm underfoot this is very minimal, we will discuss this in more detail later. The upper is a 50/50 blend of wool/poly which assist in comfort through different temperature ranges and controls odour.

As a new fivefingers runner my first question was whether to use socks or not with the V-Alpha. Again, after some research I went for a light toesock initially. First thoughts on the wearing the V-Alpha is they wear smaller than normal shoes, it is important to measure your foot and choose the size off Vibram’s sizing chart. They are designed to wear tighter, particularly in the big toe. This does feel a little restrictive on initial wearing, however I quickly got used to the feeling and have no discomfort wearing the V-Alpha in a very short time. The lacing system is simple, easy and very effective making it easy to tension the shoe quickly.

My first thought when running in the V-Alpha was of how responsive thy are for a shoe with just 5.7mm between my foot and ground. Almost immediately running the V-Alpha puts you on the ball of your feet and comfortably push off the big toe. Even with the initial restrictive feeling pushing off the big toe felt comfortable. Vibram have done a great job with V-Alpha giving the runner a nice barefoot feeling.

Ground feel is very noticeable, the runner can feel everything they want to feel underfoot. When running on a relatively smooth surface there is great benefit from this, coupled with a highly responsive shoe the running experience is very enjoyable.

The advantage of increased ground feel is the perception and awareness of the terrain below you. For barefoot traditionalists the more ground feel the better, for runners looking to produce their best performance there is a trade-off. Too much ground feel and you will reduce performance as feet get sore or injured from harsh terrain. Just the right amount and you can gain all the performance benefits of running naturally with a mid foot landing. On a road surface the V-Alpha has perfect ground feel. The detail can be felt which gives the runner the sensitivity and awareness to engage with ground just as nature intended us to.

When we hit the trails, it gets slightly more interesting. The ground feel is even more noticeable and makes the runner have a heightened awareness of foot placement. While this is still adequate protection over most terrain, sharp rocky terrain become problematic. You easily feel the rocks underneath and can feel pain when running through this type of terrain. This will affect performance on the trails if the terrain features sharp exposed rocks.

The V-alpha are a very flexible shoe which allows a full range of motion for the runner. This gives the runner a natural barefoot feel, while the five-finger design almost lets each toe move naturally. It certainly does with the big toe as it can move independently in the shoe. This makes the push off phase of the runners gait very natural and makes running very smooth and comfortable.

The upper material is highly breathable and makes for a comfortable result in all conditions. Over a long run in warm weather the feet didn’t feel hot or humid. Alternatively in cooler conditions the feet are still comfortable and coupled with a light toe sock warm. Additionally, the upper material is durable and easy to wash off in cold water. They also dry quickly.

Longevity is commonly spoken about when you research the Vibram Fivefinger products. I’ve been running in the V-Alpha now for three months and put over 300km into them over a variety of terrains, however more recently running has been completed on road surfaces. My V-Alpha’s are still in very good condition with minimal wear on the soles. I have to say in my experience the V-Alpha offers very good longevity, I think they would be less than halfway through their life at this point.

I find the V-Alpha to be a suitable shoe as an all-round barefoot shoe. They are best suited over smoother terrains and very well suited on the road. I have used them over most types of training I’ve used them for. I regular use the on my interval workouts and they perform well due to their responsiveness. I’ve also completed long runs in them and been happy with the result.

Overall I have been super impressed with the V-Alpha. I’ve definitely become a converted Vibram Fivefingers runner into the future. These have found there way into my rotation as a perfect shoe for road and lighter trails. I’m equally comfortable wearing these over a short faster workout or a long run and will divide their time with the other footwear I utilise over these specific runs.

The keys features are the responsive running feeling. The ground feel is a major highlight which over most surfaces give the runner the perfect mix of awareness and protection.

Light, flat, flexible, comfortable and responsive. Not much more you need in a running shoe. These are a winner and should be in every minimal runners footwear rotation.

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Vibram Fivefingers models comparison

Over the last year, I’ve became a huge fan of the Vibram Fivefingers shoes (VFF). They’re the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever had and I love the feeling of the ground under my feet and overall feel very free in them. I’ve tried out a number of models, so I figured I could put my thoughts about them into a blog post.

I’m not a runner nor a sport guy of any kind, though since I switched to VFFs I started to enjoy walking much more. So this “review” is from a casual guy’s perspective.

Overall opinion

As I stated before, I think VFFs are great and I really love them. I practically haven’t been wearing anything else for close to a year now (except for some days in winter – see my comments on V-Trek Ascent Insulated).

I’d say they’re near perfection, the only downside for me is the water resistance . I’m really looking forward to Vibram solving this, then I’ll be 100% satisfied. All models I’ve tried out have very poor water resistance. If the ground has a few mm of water, your feet get wet, too. This doesn’t happen often here in Central Europe and it’s mostly not that much of a problem when the shoes get wet, because they dry very fast. The main problem is winter with wet snow/thaw and I haven’t been able to find a solution for that (see my comments on V-Trek Ascent Insulated).

Also, be aware of rather inconsistent sizing across the various models (boo, Vibram!) – out of the shoes I’ve tried, I’ve had to go for EUR 44 for V-Alphas, V-Trail 2.0 and V-Trek Ascent Insulated instead of my standard EUR 43.

Table of contents

Kso eco wool, v-trek ascent insulated, v-train 2.0.

Original model of the shoes. They’re comfortable, and solid, though they look the weirdest out of the bunch. Newer models somewhat resemble normal shoes and actually look cool to me. These not really. They’re still perfectly good shoes though. Apart from the design, the only problematic thing is the tightening velcro which can get stuck in the fabric and ruffle it.

Very light and breathing, comfortable, look good, awesome tightening mechanism. All around great , ideal for indoors and cities on warmer days (I’d say 10 °C and more).

A warmer brother of the KSO EVO. I’m using it as my home shoes in winter. Can’t complain.

Very similar to KSO, a bit warmer (I can wear these with socks even around 0 °C), a bit less breathing, with more outdoor sole. It’s the most universal of the models I’ve tried, so if you don’t know which model to choose, I recommend this one.

Also warning, you’ll probably want to order one EUR size larger than what you normally wear. Basically all my shoes are EUR 43, but I had to go for EUR 44 for these, 43 were too small for me (I learned the hard way).

I didn’t really like these. They don’t have a tightening mechanism, so they don’t hold to your feet as much. And they end way too low under the ankle, making them look kinda weird to me, even weirder when you put on any socks under them.

These were the only model I’ve found in the Vibram inventory that looked suitable for winters and snow. And they would be, if it wasn’t for two fatal flaws.

The main flaw is that they are barely water resistant . I’ve tried impregnating them as much as I could, didn’t help. When the snow is dry and frozen, they hold up quite well. But when you step into a wet snow or during thaw, the shoes get soaked very easily through the finger pouches, making your feet quite cold.

Of course I missed the quick tightening mechanism which is replaced by standard shoe laces. Also the sole is quite thick (which I hoped would help with the water resistance), so you don’t even feel the ground as much. And it’s harder to bend, so the fingers don’t have as much freedom.

The second flaw was the decorative rubber part that has “Soft” written on it on the sole. It’s made from a different material, I don’t understand which purposes it does serve, and as I was using the shoes, the whole damn thing just fell of, basically making a big hole in the sole. Needless to say, this made the shoes even less waterproof. Ended up returning them.

Also, you’ll need to order one EUR size larger .

Now these are intended for training which I don’t do, but I got a nice price on them so I tried them out. They’re great, but the features they have are really intended for training and I don’t have much use for them. They have this top strap making the shoes fit snugger , but for me it just brings an extra step when tightening them. They also have some extra cushioning , making them warmer and thus a good option for colder weather.

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Vibram V-Trail 2.0 Review

• Ground Feedback - 30% 9.0
• Stability - 20% 8.0
• Traction - 20% 9.0
• Weight - 15% 8.4
• Durability - 15% 8.0

Our Verdict

Compare to similar products, our analysis and test results.

Vibram knows a thing or two about producing quality outsoles — you will find their rubber on the bottom of many top-quality trail runners. The V-Trail 2.0 is no exception, as a barefoot running shoe supported by a thick, heavily lugged outsole ready to stand guard against rocks or roots that try to penetrate the bottom of your foot. The upper comfortably wraps the foot and is secured with a fast-lacing system that evenly distributes pressure across the top of the arch and forefoot through sewn-in tension straps that are welded to the sole. Achieving a delicate balance of lightweight and burly design, this shoe gave us maximum confidence to strike out onto trails at full speed — a quality not often associated with minimalist shoes.

Performance Comparison

Ground Feedback

Design considerations of trail running shoes — constructed to protect our feet from rough terrain — often don't follow the same principles coveted by barefoot and minimalist footwear. The V-Trail 2.0 is an impressive trail runner. Due to the tread design on the sole, which aides in this pursuit, it doesn't have quite as much ground feel as some of the thinner, flat-soled contenders. The relatively thick 3.7mm outsole is great at blocking rocks from penetrating your foot but not the most sensitive at relaying feedback from the terrain.

While the V-Trai 2.0 may not rank as highly in terms of barefoot accuracy, it still falls solidly within the natural running category and is a top competitor in terms of running performance. The natural toe dexterity that the design confers can't be overlooked by those looking for the most natural running experience. We enjoyed speeding down trails in this shoe, from sandy arroyos to high-alpine ridges. With zero drop and a slight stack height, your foot is right on the ground and feels incredibly stable moving over varied terrain. When it comes to longer runs — particularly on mountain trails that inevitably include long sections of downhill — we appreciate the inclusion of a non-removable EVA insole that provides 2mm of cushioning.

The FiveFingers design is intended to allow for maximum freedom of movement — namely, allowing your toes to splay and flex independently — as if you were running barefoot. Overall, the V-Trail 2.0 is quite flexible in all directions, but that flexion is inhibited by the thick rubber that wraps the front of each toe. While the midfoot is wider than other FiveFingers models, it is actually tighter in the forefoot and toes of this shoe. You will notice that your toes still have the ability to mold to the terrain, but the proprioception of your foot position is what fails as a result of this added protection. We actually found ourselves tripping over our toes on a few occasions.

Consider the Benefits of Wearing Socks

Considering that toe movement carries a large weight in this portion of the test, the FiveFingers got five stars. We really enjoyed the feeling of independent mobility in our toes as they gripped and pushed and climbed our way to the tops of trails.

The tiny rubber pyramid cleats help you cling to the ground, which aids in stability on softer ground, but can also feel strange and less stable if you're running on a hard surface like pavement. It's best to stick to the trail in these shoes and look for something else if you're running on pavement.

With a heavily lugged base, the V-Trail 2.0 is clearly designed as a shoe to grip and climb rugged terrain. This shoe is awesome for scrambling — particularly on sandstone — and we were comfortable making 3rd/4th-class moves thanks to the sticky rubber of the outsole. These shoes also perform particularly well on uphills, where the toes can easily flex, grip, and push off with graceful power.

However, on downhills, these have a surprising lack of traction on certain surfaces. Upon a closer examination of the lug pattern, all of the raised, triangular lugs are oriented in the same forward-facing direction. This supports what we felt on the trail, where we could feel the outsole catch but not brake in the same way other lugged designs would. That said, while moving downhill over rock, we found the Vibram rubber plenty sticky to descend confidently.

In spite of its overall tank-like construction, the V-Trail 2.0 is not as weighty as you may expect. Staying true to the lightweight intention of the original FiveFingers design, these weigh a mere 7.3 ounces per shoe. The light swing weight, combined with the slightly rockered midsole, contributes to a very natural stride that feels like gliding.

While the power of the V-Trail 2.0 is highlighted in the mountains, it does not perform as well when it comes to city life. Even though they are not heavy, these shoes feel clunky and less agile when pulled out of their element and put on the road. Thick 3D Cocoon Mesh sacrifices a bit of breathability for water and puncture resistance, leaving our feet hot and sweaty when exposed to direct sunlight over hot pavement.

The V-Trail 2.0 is a tank of a minimalist shoe. A tough, abrasion-resistant upper is supported by laminates of TPU in key spots across the toes and around the heel pocket.

Additionally, the majority of the upper is braced with Cordura-like nylon. The 3D Cocoon Mesh is woven directly into the outsole, which is further laminated around the toes to help prevent previous issues with seam-splitting. We put this shoe through the wringer, and it came out practically unscathed — we cannot imagine many issues with durability.

Should You Buy the Vibram V-Trail 2.0?

Built for adventure, the V-Trail 2.0 is a rugged option for a barefoot running shoe. Whatever situation you might find yourself in, this shoe will certainly do its best to keep your feet protected from anything you throw its way. While it won't be the first choice for someone looking for a pair of street runners, and it may seem intimidating if you haven't worn a pair of FiveFingers before, this shoe scored high in every category and is consciously constructed to ensure that you have a lot of fun running the trail.

What Other Barefoot Shoe Should You Consider?

While the V-Trail 2.0 excels on the trail, it's not the best choice for road running. If you spend most of your time on hard surfaces, check out the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III . If the price is a factor, check out the Whitin Cross Trainer , which utilizes a similar trail runner design. If you're looking for good trail tread and stability in a non-FiveFinger offering, check out the ultralight Merrell Vapor Glove 6 .

Best Barefoot Shoes of 2024

How to Choose Minimal and Barefoot Shoes

Vibram FiveFingers Insulated V-Trek

After falling in love with Vibram FiveFingers V-Trek boots, I had to try the insulated V-Treks, and they are sweet on my feet!

Warm and Nimble

I’m still swimming in my local lake in spite of the 37 degree F water, and my insulated V-Trek boots have been essential. I need to feel secure moving around the lake. The beaches are sandy, and I have to trek across wet, muddy grass to get to them. I need to be able to feel my footing. I also need to be able to feel the pedals in my car on the drive to the lake. The insulated V-Trek keeps my feet warm enough in both situations that I can get the same tactile experience and confidence as I get when wearing my Vibram FiveFingers V-Trek boots .

Once I finish a swim, it’s a frantic exercise in removing neoprene and adding layers of wool and insulation. My hands and feet are usually cold. I undress and dress head to toe, so my feet are the last to get what they need. By the time I get the wetsuit and neoprene socks (and merino socks) off, I have seconds to pat dry my feet and shove them into my Vibram FiveFingers Insulated V-Trek boots. Surprisingly, I am able to do it and even get my toes into the boot’s toes. Then that layer of fleece is snug tight around my foot, and I can relax as my feet warm up.

Safe Solution

The area where I transition is often wet cement, strewn with sopping wet neoprene items. I shuffle around and gather my gear into my bag, then make the trek back across the slippery, muddy grass. I can’t impress how important it is to me to have this superior grip on the bottom of my feet and a barefoot-like sense of planting my feet with each step. I had a traumatic injury a few years back where I fell in muddy grass and broke my leg into pieces, so it is huge to me that I feel safe walking in these boots. I like the traditional lacing system; I can cinch the boots as tight as I want, double knot the laces, and I’m on my way.

The only downside to the V-Trek boots as a warming item: the fleece insulation doesn’t extend into the toes. I mitigate this by blasting the heat in my car onto my feet as I drive. That way my toes get warm by the time I get home. It’s the best solution I have because I really need that barefoot grip for safety.

Maybe I will test some merino toe socks and see if that gives my toes more warmth.

Available in men’s sizes in black and in women’s sizes in Black, Black/Grey, and Military/Grey. (Read review of Vibram FiveFingers V-Trek boot).

Bottom Line

The Vibram FiveFinger Insulated V-Trek boot has been so important to me this winter. Secure footing is vital for my activities, as is enveloping my bare feet in fleece when they are cold. These would also be ideal for winter camping or as winter cabin shoes. I have been happy with the level of warmth they provide in low 40’s F temps.

Manufacturer’s Site: https://us.vibram.com

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Vibram V-Train 2.0 Review

• Post author By Jarvis
• Post date January 30, 2021
• No Comments on Vibram V-Train 2.0 Review

Made for fitness, the V-Train 2.0 has versatility beyond its fitness-oriented intensions with an excellent strap system, sole design, and durability. Welcome the next generation of the training line from Vibram!

From Vibram

The V-Train 2.0 is the perfect tool for serious trainers and functional athletes. XS Trek will carry you from the trail to the urban playground and even across a range of indoor activities, thanks to its non-marking feature.

Heart and Sole

This V-Train 2.0 is excellent for a variety of uses beyond its designation of “the fitness shoe”. It is excellent for gym sessions, including p90x and similar programs, circuit training, jumping rope, and cutting motions. Outdoors, the V-Train shines as a road and trail shoe for average minimalists and it has a good rubber compound that gives it some winter running chops as well. Its reinforced strapping system locks in tighter than the Lace Systems used in more lightweight Vibrams. The shoe features a comfortable tongueless “wrap” style and the uppers are very flexible and accommodating for a wide range of feet volumes.

While the V-Train 2.0 is an obvious evolution of Vibram’s other fitness shoes—ranging from the Komodo to the KMD—I also see it as a pseudo KSO update due to having a Velcro strap. Ironically, the KSO EVO, which evolved from the KSO, lost that Velcro strap in favor of a Lace System.

The V-Train 2.0 has an aggressive and interesting sole design that features multiple specialized lugs. It is a lot of fun just looking at the sole and seeing all the different types of treads. The shoe features rounded lugs around the ball of the foot and heel, pebble-lugs along the arch for traction, longitudinal trenches for cutting movements, and lugs along the toes for digging.

The rubber compound used is Vibram’s XS compound, which originally debuted on their Bikila EVO line. Vibram XS Trek is a technical compound that allows for great flexibility and traction. XS is versatile and provides good traction in the gym (or home gym), roads, trails, and dry cold-weather applications. Unlike the V-Run, the rubber covers the entire sole area. This compound seems denser than the all-around MEGAGRIP compound found in the V-Alphas, but seems stickier in cold weather. Combined with the substantial uppers, the sole design makes the V-Train a pretty decent cold-weather shoe. However, true cold running is better suited to the Insulated models and their IceTrek rubber compounds.

The V-Train 2.0 is a more substantial shoe, especially compared to Vibram’s more featherweight designs in the past. At 6.88 oz for a size 42, this places the V-Train as average compared to most minimalist shoes and above many Vibrams.

The V-Train 2.0 feels like a more substantial V-Alpha. They occupy similar functions as gym/fitness, running, hiking, and parkour shoes. The V-Train is certainly the heavier of the two, but is also more durable in most aspects. Choosing between this shoe and the V-Alpha will depend on your needs. The V-Alpha is a jack-of-all-trades shoe with many strengths, while the V-Train 2.0 is designed to be more heavy duty with a ton of security and protection features and a more aggressive, but less smooth, sole. Someone looking for more durability and features for extreme needs would certainly appreciate the design elements of the V-Train 2.0.

Overall, the V-Train is an excellent fitness shoe. I found that it is excellent as an indoor and outdoor shoe.

The V-Train 2.0 has a complex, industrial look with multiple layers of materials that speaks to its more heavy-duty capabilities. There are some padded TPU sections that prevent tears and scuffs, and its dual strap system communicates security and toughness. Multiple types of materials are comprised in the uppers with a splash of color on some models in the collar and elastic laces. The V-Train look like would give the V-Trek and Trek Ascent shoes a run for their money for mud runs, spartan races, etc.

Fit and Materials

The highlight of the V-Train 2.0 is its strap design. Velcro strap and lace system work together to provide a very secure fit. This gives some homage the KMD and Komodo and a bit of the KSO as well. The shoe is protected from all angles through multiple layers. However, it does become pretty complicated-looking with all the layers working together.

The V-Train 2.0 utilizes a triple upper design. I would classify the three sections as the core uppers, the lacing layer, and the TPU layer. The core of the uppers a wrap style that overlaps around your foot and removes the need for a tongue. This core section is padded around the collar for security and comfort. The section above the feet and toes has protective painted on bits to prevent snags and tears. This plush section provides a cozy, flexible, and seamless experience. I believe that many will consider this among the most comfortable of the Vibram designs due to that seamless interior that is somewhat reminiscent of the Furoshiki shoes from Vibram. As an additional benefit, the extra plushness of the uppers and additional layers make the V-Train 2.0 a pretty good fall and winter shoe for non-snow activities.

The lace layer that uses Vibram’s excellent lace system. This closed-loop bungee and velcro strap lace system is consistently excellent and easy to use. I always find the Vibram lace system to be superior to traditional shoe laces in terms of comfort, speed, and durability. There is less time fiddling and tying and more time enjoying the little things with the bungee and velcro route.

This lace system is threaded through nylon eyelets stitched into the lace layer. Prior models have the elastic threaded through the uppers. I am not sure if this is a better way of securing the laces as I am not sure if these nylon eyelets are more durable than threading the laces through an entire upper layer like the V-Alphas.

The third layer is the aforementioned padded TPU section, which secures the Velcro strap. The Velcro keeper in the laces has a double-sided design that sandwiches the keeper between two sides of the Velcro strap. This combo makes for the most secure Vibram design yet. In my experience, once you find a good fit, this Velcro strap and double-sided lace keeper really will not budge. This is excellent from a security perspective and anyone with issues in the past with the Vibram lace system should definitely check out this hardy design. In some ways, I cannot help but feel like this might be overkill for most users.

The heel of the shoe also features an extra layer of material, which adds to the durability of the shoe.

All of these layers and the strap design makes for a very tough, secure, and durable shoe. However, this comes at the compromise of extra weight. If your preferred weight for shoes is in the 6 oz range (size 42), this would be a perfect gym shoe and more. If you are looking for something in a more featherweight option, the V-Alphas are a great choice and can do many of the things that the V-Train 2.0 aims to do, but in a more streamlined and simple design. The V-Train 2.0 also overlaps with the V-Trek and Trek Ascent shoes due to its durable upper design and rugged sole. All of this creates a lot of choices for shoppers—perhaps too many options in my opinion.

The V-Train is a versatile shoe and is unmatched in Vibram’s lineup for extreme circumstances. However, the V-Alphas are my first recommendation for most users.

Future Improvements

Overall, I do feel like Vibram has a lot of overlapping models and even some legacy models still being sold. Some of their models are ten years old and they exist alongside their latest updates. Looking at their website is like seeing a family tree for shoes. Even their newest shoes demonstrate a number of similar models and I cannot help but wonder if it would be a good idea for them to streamline their line.

For a V-Train 3.0, I would possible streamline the three-layers of uppers into two, combining the lace layer and the Velcro layer to shave off some weight and maybe tone done the TPU protection layers so they still function to protect the shoe, but for a more elegant appearance.

It’s amazing to think that this line has been on the market for ten years! From the Komodo, to KMD, and now the V-Train, each iteration has been updated for durability and security. This latest shoe features an aggressive sole, a secure strapping system, and additions that strengthen its durability.

• Tags fitness , fivefingers , review , vibram , Vibrams , Workout

Minimalist ultra-marathon runner with flat dinosaur feet.

50K Ultra-Marathon Runner

I hold a PhD in Political Science. You can follow my photography adventures at jarvischen.zenfolio.com and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/chenjarvis

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We recommend you to measure both feet, from heel to toe:

• stand with your heels against a vertical wall
• use a ruler to measure the distance from the wall to the tip of the longest finger of each foot (usually the big toe or second toe).
• take the longer of the two measurements.

Foot shapes and sizes change from person to person. Vibram FiveFingers gives you some fit adjustments, but may not fit every foot type. To have the best fitting results, we recommend you to Follow the instructions here below, which is the most correet method to catch the right fit. Measure your feet in centimeters or inches, then using the guide above to find your EU or USA size.

if your foot length varies more than 0.4 cm it will be difficult to get a precise fit for both Feet if your second toe is more than O.4 cm longer than your big toe it will be difficult to get a precise fit. Toe socks usually add 1mm all around the foot.

Measure your feet at the end of the day or after physical activity. This is when your feet are at their maximum.

• 4.8 oz. / 136 grams
• 3.7 mm rubber outsole
• 2 mm Foam insole for added comfort
• 50/50 wool / synthetic upper material for improved breathability and reduced odor.
• Machine Wash Cold / Air Dry

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CANNONDALE UNVEILS SLEEK 2023 ROAD LINE-UP

• THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2015: ALEX DOWSETT BREAKS THE HOUR RECORD

Bike Test: TWO-BY ALUMINUM Trek VS Cannondale

Trek’s Domane ALR 4 Disc versus Cannondale’s Optimo Disc

Photos: Pat Carrigan

Although aluminum is no longer the frame material of choice in the high-end market, it still provides an impressive value for entry-level bikes. Cannondale and Trek are two of the big brands that have continued to invest in their aluminum bike line, and what we have here are two entries that close in on the $2000 price point.

Cannondale pioneered the use of oversized aluminum tubes back in the early ’80s. In the many years since, Cannondale has maintained its reputation with aluminum fabrication with their popular CAAD line that’s used in a variety of different bikes. The CAAD Optimo is Cannondale’s newest take on what an aluminum bike should feel like while maintaining a friendly price tag.

The Trek Domane ALR 4 Disc is more than another aluminum frame with a flashy paint job. Trek utilized established compliance concepts from their higher-end carbon version to develop a bike that is budget-friendly and still packs a punch on the performance side.

The Optimo uses Cannondale’s own SmartForm C2 aluminum with internal cable routing, a PF30 bottom bracket and, of course, disc brakes. The rear triangle uses Cannondale’s SAVE stays that are used on all of their road bikes and even some of their mountain bikes. The SAVE micro-suspension flattens out parts of the chain and seatstays to dumb down rough sections of pavement.

Adding to the ride quality is a carbon fork up front and a small-diameter seat tube that hosts a 27.2mm seatpost. There are two bikes in the Optimo category; our test bike is the higher-end build retailing for $1460.

The ALR 4 stands unique with the addition of Trek’s proprietary IsoSpeed decoupler, which can be likened to a suspension system that provides unparalleled vertical compliance aimed at long days in the saddle. The IsoSpeed allows the seat tube to flex under stress to relieve some of the harsh vibrations and imperfections on the road.

Trek builds the Domane with their 200 Alpha aluminum with manipulated tube shapes to enhance the ride quality. The rear triangle has clearance for up to 32mm tires and uses a 12mm thru-axle. The frame has complete internal cable routing, an oversized BB86.5 bottom bracket shell and hidden fender mounts.

A nice, modern touch are the flat-mount front and rear disc brakes. Up front is a carbon fiber fork that uses a 12mm thru-axle and clearance for 32mm tires. The price tag is set at $1730.

Our test bike came with the proven 11-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain with an 11-28 cassette. Up front is an FSA Gossamer crankset with compact 50/34 chainrings. The shifters are paired with cable-actuated TRP Spyre brake calipers. The Optimo comes with Maddux wheels mounted with 25mm Schwalbe Lugano tires. Cannondale relied on their own C3 aluminum handlebars, stem and seatpost to round out the spec.

Bikes in this price point are generally value-driven, and the ALR 4 has plenty of bang-for-the-buck components. Trek spec’d the ALR with Shimano RS405 hydraulic brakes and calipers for consistent braking that is unaffected by the internal cable routing. The 10-speed Shimano Tiagra drivetrain is made up with a compact 50/34 crankset and 11-32 rear cassette, giving riders a broad range of gears. Our test bike came with 32mm tires and tubeless-ready Bontrager rims that we considered a bonus for this price point.

The geometry of the CAAD leans towards performance with a slightly aggressive reach and head angle but in a compact design. Our test riders felt comfortable with the 100mm stem, but were not impressed with the stock saddle and swapped it out for a Fabric Scoop after the first ride. On longer rides the fit felt comfortable and versatile enough for riders to find a good position for endurance adventures or more aggressive riding.

The CAAD rides like an aluminum bike with stiff, responsive qualities that are pronounced during hard efforts out of the saddle. Our test riders didn’t get any unwanted flex out of the frame when climbing or sprinting and were pleased with the overall responsiveness. When pedaling in the saddle, the CAAD had a smooth ride that was attributed to the SAVE stays. Over rough sections of pavement the CAAD delivered a surprisingly quiet ride.

It took us several hard braking efforts to burn the brakes in, but once we did, the calipers provided capable stopping power. The cable routing for the rear brake is awkward, coming out from under the chainstay, and drastically changed how the lever felt. Instead of a consistent pull, the line felt mushy and changed when we turned the handlebars.

Dialing in the fit, our test riders noticed the relax geometry and dropped the stem into the lowest stack height and were still comfortable enough during long rides. The Shimano brake hoods have a long reach, which felt strange to some riders. During our testing, though, we didn’t have any major complaints with the overall fit and geometry. To say to the Domane is a smooth-riding bike would be an understatement. The IsoSpeed decoupler muted rough sections of the road and delivered a very compliant ride quality.

Out of the saddle the frame was stiff and responded to our test riders’ efforts with ease. On long climbs we had plenty of gears to maintain a healthy cadence, even on steeper pitches of pavement. The Domane felt stable on descents, and the hydraulic calipers offered plenty of modulation. Some of our test riders would have preferred the smaller 140mm rotors opposed to the stock 160s, but overall were pleased with the braking performance.

THE VERDICT

Entry-level road bikes in this price category are usually a pretty solid bet in terms of durability and delivering a consistent ride. The CAAD Optimo delivers on ride quality and carries on the CAAD legacy well. Riders will have a solid platform to dial in this bike the way they want it down the road or simply enjoy it as is.

OPTIMO PUNCH LINES

• Comfortable ride
• Inconsistent rear brake

OPTIMO STATS

• Price: $1460
• Weight: 21.6 pounds
• Sizes: 44, 48, 51, 54 (tested), 56, 58, 60, 63cm

www.cannondale.com

There are plenty of aluminum bikes under $2000 with loud paint jobs and a quality component package, but few have frame designs that are as progressive as the Trek. The Domane ALR 4 Disc has a solid component spec and a frame design that has more technology than some high-end carbon bikes. The price tag on the Domane is near the top of what is considered budget-friendly, but the bike will require few—if any—upgrades to keep riders going.

DOMANE PUNCH LINES

• Proprietary Isospeed system
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Comfortable geometry

DOMANE STATS

• Price: $1730
• Weight: 22 pounds
• Sizes: 50, 52, 54, 56 (tested), 58, 60, 62cm

www.trekbikes.com

THE COMPARO 

There are two schools of thought when shopping for your first bike—settling for the most affordable or opt for a slightly higher price to step up in technology. The Cannondale sits in a comfortable price range with a modern 11-speed drivetrain and mechanical-actuated disc brakes. For about $300 more, the Trek sits at the top of the entry-level price spectrum with a 10-speed drivetrain and hydraulic-actuated disc brakes.

It’s no secret that entry-level bikes are often the dumping ground for older, heavier components and technology as consumer expectations advance along with the new technology that finds itself on more expensive bikes. That argument could point to both the Cannondale’s cable pull brakes and Trek’s 10-speed drivetrain.

While everyone can always use extra gears, for us, there is nothing that beats the feel of consistent and powerful braking, and that’s a big reason why for us the extra $300 for the Trek is small potatoes. In addition to the brakes are the tubeless-ready wheels and 32mm tires, which are a boon in contemporary component spec. What really seals the deal in favor of the Trek is the Isospeed decoupler that simply delivers an unmatched level of ride compliance that’s hard to beat.

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Which Trek mountain bike is right for you?

• Benjamin Haworth
• October 3, 2017

Get to know your Remedy from your Fuel

We have a look over the 2018 range of Trek mountain bikes to see who suits what in a range featuring the Fuel EX, Remedy, Marlin and Powerfly models.

>>> All our recent Trek mountain bike reviews

Getting to grips with 2018 Trek mountain bikes

If you pop over to Trek’s website and click on ‘mountain bikes’ more than 120 bikes appear in front of you. It’s rather daunting. Choice is good but can be bewildering. So we’ve boiled Trek’s MTB range down to the basics to get you started.

>>> Trek road bikes: which model is right for you?

What type of bike do you want?

We think it’s best to split the whole range into three categories and then go from there: hardtail , full suspension and electric .

What type of riding will you be doing?

Once you’ve chosen one of the three categories you can refine it to the type of riding you want to do: cross-country, trail or downhill.

With those two category types chosen you’ll be left with a much smaller pool of Trek models to consider.

We’re going to assume that you already know the type of mountain bike you want. We’re not going to go into any debates or theorising (hardtail vs full suspension, 27.5 vs 29 , Plus vs Fat etc etc).

Trek hardtails

There are five hardtail models in Trek’s range: Marlin, X-Caliber, Roscoe, Procaliber and Stache.

Trek use their own proprietary frame materials. Their aluminium stuff is called Alpha. Their carbon stuff is called OCLV.

Some of their high end hardtails have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ configuration where the seat tube is designed to flex for compliance.

The Trek Marlin is an entry level cross-country focussed hardtail ranging from £370 up to £550. Thee are four models in total (the Marlin 4, 5, 6 and 7). The frame is Trek’s ‘Silver Alpha’ aluminium.

The Trek X-Caliber cross-country range starts from £650 and tops out at £1,150. The frame is Trek’s ‘Gold Alpha’ aluminium. The frames have internal routing for stealth dropper seatposts. The components are of a higher quality than the Marlins.

The Trek Roscoe range of Plus-tyred trail hardtails running from £800 to £ 1,250. The frame has internal routing for dropper posts and is made from Trek’s ‘Alpha Gold’ aluminium.

The £1,300 to £6,500(!) Trek Procaliber cross-country race bike range can look a a bit confusing; there are aluminium Procalibers, OCLV carbon Procalibers and Super Light OCLV Procalibers. Although the frame material varies the intent of Procalibers is the same: xc racing. The geometry remains the same. All Procalibers have the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ feature of deliberate flex.

The Trek Stache bikes are rather unique in that they are 29er Plus bikes. They roll on some seriously large rubber! Monster trucking hardtails. Price: £1,300 to £3,500.

Trek full suspension bikes

There are five Trek full susser types: Fuel EX, Remedy, Top Fuel, Slash and Session.

All Trek full sus bikes use a version of the ‘ABP’ suspension design. ABP stands for Active Braking Pivot. The rear wheel axle is also the rear pivot. The idea is to prevent the suspension from locking up during rear braking.

Fuel EX, Remedy and Top Fuel bikes also have RE:aktiv rear shock damping. This damping design claims to ‘know’ which forces are coming from the pedals/rider and which forces are coming from the trail, and it reacts accordingly.

The Trek Fuel EX 130mm travel, full sus, all-rounder, trail bikes come as either 29er or as 27.5 Plus. They can be run with either wheel size but are initially purchased with one or the other. Starting from £1,800 for aluminium versions they top out at £6,500 for the top end carbon version.

>>> Trek Fuel EX Plus 9.8 27.5 (2017) review

The Trek Remedy is the 150mm travel trail-cum-enduro bike. Prices range from £2,300 to £6,000. There are aluminium Remedy models and carbon fibre Remedy models. For 2018 they are all 27.5in wheel.

The Trek Top Fuel bikes are full suspension XC race machines. 100mm of travel at either end. Begins with the aluminium Top Fuel 8 for £2,400 and goes up to the £7,800 carbon Top Fuel 9.9 RSL.

>>> Trek Top Fuel 9 (2017) review

2018 Trek Slash

The 160mm travel enduro racing Trek Slash range is all 29in wheels and carbon only for 2018. It’s a bold move by Trek but one that makes the Slash arguably the most defined model in their range.

>>> Trek Slash 9.9 29 RSL (2017) review

The Trek Session is the downhill bike. Aluminium or carbon. And now available as a frameset as a 29er with 190mm of travel. Complete build Sessions are all 27.5in wheel and deliver 210mm of rear travel.

Trek electric mountain bikes

There are three electric mountain bike types: Powerfly, Powerfly FS and Powerfly LT Plus.

The Trek Powerfly hardtails start at £2,300 and go up to £3,300. Aluminium frames with 100mm travel forks up front. The motors come from Bosch. There is also a £4,200 Powerfly Plus with 2.8in tyres.

On the Trek Powerfly FS bikes the ‘FS’ stands for Full Suspension, 130mm of suspension to be precise. The Powerfly FS bikes are aimed at cross-country riding with a bit of rougher stuff every now and then. All but the entry level £3,500 Powerfly 5 FS come with Plus tyres.

Trek Powerfly Launch in Verbier, Switzerland

The Trek Powerfly LT Plus models have more travel (150mm) and fatter tyres (2.8in Plus tyres). These e-bikes are up for a bit more aggro riding and technical trails. Prices: £4,200 to £5,250.

>> Trek Powerfly 9 LT (2018) first ride

Trek Women’s mountain bikes

Even as stalwarts of the whole Women’s Specific Design thang, Trek (along with most other bike brands) are now seemingly moving away from design theories that assume that women’s body proportions are different to men’s.

Bikes fit humans, not genders. Rider height is the only thing you should really be factoring in when choosing a bike. It really is only saddles that need to be a bit different to men’s.

It’s fine to opt for a supposedly ‘men’s’ Trek model if it fits your height. Get the saddle swapped out for a ladies saddle at time of purchase. Sorted.

Having said that, if you want a Women’s bike because you prefer the different colourway and decals, fair enough.

• Trek Skye – entry level cross-country hardtails
• Trek X-Caliber Women’s –  lighter and fancier cross-country hardtails
• Trek Roscoe Women’s – Plus tyred trail hardtail
• Trek Procaliber Women’s – XC racing hardtail
• Trek Fuel EX Women’s – 130mm travel full suspension all-rounder
• Trek Remedy Women’s – 150mm trail/enduro full susser
• Trek Powerfly Women’s – entry level e-bike hardtail
• Top Fuel Women’s – XC racing 100mm travel full suspension

Race Shop Limited models

You may spot some Trek mountain bikes with ‘Race Shop Limited’ (or ‘RSL’) in their model name. These are essentially super high spec models. Often limited edition. And sometimes with slightly tweaked designs (a bit more travel, slacker geometry etc etc).

Mark Webber’s Top Fuel Project One

Trek’s Project One

This is Trek’s custom paint and decals option. Yep, if you have the funds and are prepared to wait a bit for your bike, then you can get a Trek in pretty much any colour scheme you want.

Be warned: you can waste hours (days!) tinklering away with the online Project One dream bike builder.

It’s only available on a few mountain bike models: Top Fuel, Fuel EX and Procaliber.

Trek 1.5 road bike review

The Trek 1.5 is designed to be solid and dependable option for the new road cyclist, that will feel equally at home on a commute as a long Sunday ride

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If you are looking for a first road bike or solid winter steed, this is a quality frame that will last the course and not let you down. The geometry is very relaxed, with this bike better suited to all day comfort and less flexible riders. The ride is smooth, but the brakes and a couple of other minor details let the overall package down when we consider the price.

Smooth ride

Accelerates well

Tiagra shifting is good

Tubeless ready rims

Lifetime warranty on the frame

23mm tyres not 25mm

No 32t cassette

Boring styling

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Trek frames are synonymous with quality and their faith in the product is backed up by life time warranty. The frame is Trek's top drawer 'Alpha aluminium' whilst the fork is carbon fibre. In order to test the Trek 1.5 we have been riding it throughout winter, on commutes and longer training rides.

>>> The best cheap road bikes ridden and rated

The One series is Trek's base level frame and would potentially suit a large number of cyclists. If you are in the market for your first road bike, a dependable winter bike, or just something for epic sportives that won't break the bank, the Trek 1.5 is a great option. Hinting at this versatility is the inclusion of eyelets on the stays and forks, to aid the fitting of mudguards. There is also loads of mudguard/tyre clearance under the brakes. But, if you are flexible, or have good core strength you may find the upright posture this bike encourages limiting when you want to get lower and more aero.

 Geometry

The geometry of the Trek 1.5 is relaxed. For those new to cycling, this means that the horizontal reach from the saddle to the handle bars is shorter and the vertical height of the handle bars is higher. Rather than a super aggressive flat back like Bradley Wiggins , this enables the rider to sit more upright, in a more relaxed position.

This makes it ideal for new riders, who are yet to develop the core strength and flexibility that makes an aggressive position more sustainable. Our 58cm test model came with 44cm bars, which although less aerodynamic than a narrower bar, they may help add stability to overall handling to less confident riders.

>>> Complete buyer's guide to road bike groupsets

The Trek 1.5 comes fitted with a range of components. The shifters and derailleurs are Shimano Tiagra , but the chain set is FSA Vera and the brakes are unbranded callipers. We were hugely  impressed with the quality of the shifting on this bike. The FSA chainset works well in this regard with little or no flex, to hamper shifts.

We felt that the brakes let the bike down. The unbranded callipers didn't feel as responsive or stable as a Tiagra or Shimano 105  calliper. The lack of strength translates to less braking power and compromised modulation. That considered, the first thing we would upgrade on this bike would be the brakes. This is disappointing when we consider the overall price.

Our test model featured 23mm Bontrager R1 tyres. These rolled nicely and were puncture free for over a few weeks of winter riding and commuting on roads strewn with potential puncture hazards. We would have preferred to see this bike come fitted with 25mm tyres as they are stronger and can aid comfort. We do however like that Trek have equipped the bike with tubeless ready rims . Using tubeless tyres could reduce the risk of punctures.

>>> Guide to road bike tyres

The Tiagra rear cassette is 12-30t. With professionals even adopting 32t cassettes on steep mountainous days, it would be nicer if the Trek came with either a 12-32t cassette or a medium length cage rear derailleur, which would allow a 32t cassette to be fitted. Being a short cage derailleur, it is designed to only go up to 30t. This is in contrast to other bikes in a similar price range, such as the Giant Defy 3 and B'Twin Alur , which both have 32t cassettes as standard.

Ride and handling

Our favourite thing about the Trek 1.5 is the ride handling. Use of round tubes helps contribute to stiffness, whilst the carbon fork offers some dampening. The ride is very smooth, with the frame doing an excellent job of ironing out imperfections and bumps. Considering how well the frame absorbs road buzz we were pleasantly surprised to find that the bike is no slouch when you want to accelerate out the saddle either.

Compliant frames can often feel spongy when you give it the beans, but the Trek 1.5 quickly gets up to speed without any fuss. Wheels on bikes in this price range can often be bargain basement, with spokes that feel as if they are made of cooked spaghetti, but we were pleasantly surprised by the Bontrager wheels on this bike. They compliment the frame well and don't sacrifice ride quality.

Overall, the bike feels nicely balanced, with the weight centred. This is noticeable when riding uphill or track standing. Our 58cm test weighed in at a respectable 8.7kg without pedals. Cornering can feel a little tame, but will always be the case when a bike has a high front end. A lower front end enables you to lower your centre of gravity to a greater degree.

Whilst colour is subjective, we feel the Trek is rather boring to look at. The first thing that draws your eye to a bike is the way it looks and the Trek looks pretty utilitarian. Don't expect to cop admiring glances at the cafe stop. That said, plenty of us value function over form.

For more information, head over to Trek .

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Oliver Bridgewood - no, Doctor Oliver Bridgewood - is a PhD Chemist who discovered a love of cycling. He enjoys racing time trials, hill climbs, road races and criteriums. During his time at Cycling Weekly, he worked predominantly within the tech team, also utilising his science background to produce insightful fitness articles, before moving to an entirely video-focused role heading up the Cycling Weekly YouTube channel, where his feature-length documentary 'Project 49' was his crowning glory.  

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