Flux Footwear - Adapt Runner Review - Josh's Barefoot Shoes Reviews

[@ninjagoggles]

Thanks for the review! Saw these advertised on Instagram & was dubious. I live in a city full of concrete AND work in a place with concrete floors where I stand a lot. I've been wearing zero-drop & barefoot exclusively since 2020, but MAN all that concrete ks rough. I'm going to try these out!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Since you've already been barefooting for awhile, I'll recommend to you that you might try their Trainers, since they are only 10mm stack height, and closer to normal barefoot vibe. Please use my link either way, if you would: bit.ly/fluxjosh .. Best of luck, whichever you choose!

[@gordanreid640]

Thanks for the informative video! I’ve been dealing with foot pain (PF) for several months now and have tried shoes and slides with more padding and arch support and despite running less (basically none) the pain has gotten worse, so I’m thinking of trying a barefoot shoe but am worried that it may not be enough padding.

[@barefootshoejosh]

Hi thanks for commenting. Plantar Fasciitis is no fun. I believe that transitioning to barefoot shoes over time is a good plan to address it, in conjunction with stretching and massaging the muscles of your calf (gastrocnemius and soleus primarily). As someone new to barefoot shoes, I believe that this particular shoe is a good transition shoe, since it does have a 22mm sole, which will offer you some padding. Over time, you'll want to gradually move toward thinner soles as your muscles/ligaments/tendons realign and strengthen. If you end up grabbing a pair of these, please use my affiliate link: bit.ly/joshfluxrun .. thank you and good luck on your barefoot journey!

[@gordanreid640]

@ I appreciate the info, I’ll check them out and if I get a pair i’ll use your link

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@gordanreid640 btw, I should have mentioned that I was a professional massage therapist for nearly a decade, and found that the number one way to get rid of PF was stretching and massage to the calves, as shortened calf muscles are the most common cause. Best of luck and thanks again!

[@Kyriecat12]

Just bought these! Expected to come in the mail! Thanks!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Oh cool... were you able to use my link?

[@Kyriecat12]

@barefootshoejosh unfortunately I saw this video today and I ordered the shoes on Sunday 😩. But I got them for 30% off!

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@Kyriecat12 aww bummer.. well for future reference, even if you have a better promo code, or if the companies are running a bigger discount/sale, if you use my link, I still get referral credit.. but anyway, enjoy the shoes!

[@Kyriecat12]

@@barefootshoejosh thank you! And I really appreciate your video! It was by far the best for me. I needed details and you delivered!

[@Kyriecat12]

@barefootshoejosh I'm struggling with random bruising that looks like blisters on my toes, bottom, and a lil on top and my Dr and I are baffled. So I decided that maybe I did too much too fast with barefoot shoes. Decided to get these to see if it decreases.

[@Kyriecat12]

Any recommendations for barefooting socks?!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Hi sorry I just saw this. There are some 5-toe socks out there like: * Injinji socks (www.injinji.com), which I reviewed here: studio.kzbin.infovL82owm72xg * ToeSox (www.taviactive.com/pages/home-page-toesox) ...or wide socks with the toes all together like normal socks: * Wide Open Socks (wideopensocks.com) Lots of others out there, along with cheaper imitations; but that's a starting place.

[@Kyriecat12]

@barefootshoejosh thank you!

[@flamestoney5651]

Just got these; thanks for the review!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Cool, glad you found it helpful!

[@Kevin-sf9ku]

Are they true to size?

[@barefootshoejosh]

I would say yes.. but as always, I recommend measuring your feet, checking their sizing chart, and picking a size that allows you around 1.2 - 1.5 cm or so of extra length in side the shoe if possible.

[@johnsmith7150]

Needed to know if these were stiff or flexible. The bending of the shoe that you showed was great. Thank you for that.

[@barefootshoejosh]

No problem, I'm glad it helped. I wish my affiliate links were working for Flux, but they aren't right now :/

[@mamabear9389]

Looks great. I really like the tongue design. Never hurts to have a more padded shoe on hand. I have concrete floors in my house!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Agreed. There's a time and a place for some cushion!

[@jbp48080]

How do you like the insole deal. I’ve tried these but the insole was just odd. But I love the look of the shoes. Might try again

[@barefootshoejosh]

Haha yeah having textured insoles is definitely a different experience. I think I might have mentioned in the conclusion of this video (or maybe it was when I reviewed their Trainer) that I was back and forth on the insoles at first, but now I just like them. On earlier versions, they were not removable; but now, thankfully, they are removable. So if someone decides they don't like them, they can always be swapped out for a more typical insole. If you decide to give them another try, save 10% using my affiliate link! bit.ly/joshflux

[@Sjean0731]

Hi! Great vid. Did you mention sizing? I heard it’s best to size up? Im thinking of getting the waterproof ones .5 size higher than my exact size. Im also a nurse and hoping to use them for work and then another pair for gym & lifestyle. Ty for sharing.

[@barefootshoejosh]

Hi I would say they run true to size.. but the best thing for you to do is measure the length and width of your feet. Then check Flux's size chart (when you go to the page of the shoe you're looking at, there's a link there for sizing). Find the size that corresponds to your foot measurements and leaves you a little extra space in front of your toes (usually an extra 10-15mm is perfect if possible. Pick that size. That's my recommendation; but Flux's customer service can answer you more precisely. My affiliate link/codes aren't working right now, because they changed affiliate programs, so I'm sorry but my discount won't be functional at the moment. Best of luck!

[@Allan_Garcia]

I love this video. I hope I don’t sound like I’m exaggerating, but the truth is that thanks to these shoes I’m still alive :) thank you so much for all that you do!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Wow, that sounds like you probably have a great story. I'd love to hear you share it. Could you summarize it here?

[@Allan_Garcia]

@@barefootshoejosh this is one of those believe it or not summaries that is actually real. I have a bunch of independent contractors that have me under surveillance, kinda like the ones that are on Trump trying bring him down for anything and everything. The ones the shadow government contracts to harass people whose ideology isn’t in line with a dystopian future. Therefore these guys can’t do anything to me at all whatsoever as long as I stay fit with perfect mobility. Thanks to your video I gave these shoes(that I’m wearing) a try and now my mobility is perfect. I now can achieve all of my fitness dreams and am on the path to accomplishing exactly that within a month from now :). Believe it or not, I just want to say thank you so much. Your vid is absolutely the most insightful regarding these shoes. Please continue doing what you do, you have no idea the power your vids have to change and literally save lives. Thank you so much

[@Allan_Garcia]

@@barefootshoejosh in fact, I think these shoes in particular are so life changing I would genuinely suggest that you do another vid on them. I don’t think it’s possible to emphasize how amazing in every way imaginable these shoes are. I even use them to train in.(the Insanity workouts on the Beach Body app) I love them so much I even bought my mom and dad a pair so I could share the experience.

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@Allan_Garcia LOL that's a crazy summary alright! Anyway, I'm glad you appreciate the videos and have benefited in some way from moving into barefoot shoes.

[@genesisliftxtrade]

Been wanting to start incorporating running in my daily routine. Ive been using vivo barefoot to daily walks and train in the gym. My toes adapted the wide toe box and are pretty spread out decently. What running shoes would you recommend if my goal was to be able to do 5mile run daily. (Is there a running shoes that doesnt crush your toes?) thank you!!

[@JoshGreeson]

Vivobarefoot is toward the medium-to-narrower end of the barefoot shoe width spectrum. These Flux Adapt Runners are wider. They do have a 22mm stack height, which is a good cushion for your 5-mile runs. I also recently reviewed a grounded barefoot running shoe from Bahe, with a 10mm stack height. I run in both of them and either one of these could suit you just fine.

[@gabrielasullivan2128]

I tried using your link but it didn’t work! Is there a new one?

[@barefootshoejosh]

I just clicked this link bit.ly/joshflux and it worked fine.. but if not working for you, you can try this one: flux.rfrl.co/3y4vr .. please let me know if one of those works for you! Thank you for trying!

[@barefootshoejosh]

It looks like flux's affiliate program just switched out our links without telling us.. Here's are 2 updated links: bit.ly/fluxjosh or flux.rfrl.co/74w23

[@julie.daytona]

Thanks for this super detailed review- what I've been looking for! I just ordered a pair in a nice neutral sand color, and I will probably do my own review as well. I will link your video because i will not go as in-depth as you!

[@barefootshoejosh]

Aww thanks I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for linking to the review as well. Now if I could only get a working referral link fixed up with them since they changed affiliate programs... :)

[@lillyj]

Thinking of trying these. How do you switch from traditional shoes to these? Should I start with a few hours per day?

[@barefootshoejosh]

@barefootshoejosh 0 seconds ago Transitioning to barefoot shoes is different for everyone. I started and that was that. I had no discomfort or anything. Quite the contrary, I couldn't believe that this is the kind of space my feet should have had all along. I began replacing all of my shoes with barefoot shoes, and I've been wearing them exclusively for about 12 years now. Some people need to transition more gradually. And this pair of shoes in particular is even less dramatic of a transition because the soles are pretty thick at 22mm. But yes, doing a few hours a day at first wouldn't hurt, then increase it a bit more as you continue on. You'll be rebuilding the strength in your arches that has atrophied over years of wearing arch support. That process happens differently for everyone; but doing in a way that feels best for you is what counts.

[@Samguitarguy94]

I’m very flat footed, my most comfy pairs of footwear are either ASICS or Birkenstocks because they rule the game in terms of arch support. Does flux offer arch support and is it advisable for overpronators like myself?

[@barefootshoejosh]

Hi.. it seems like you may possibly be unfamiliar with barefoot shoes, which I am an advocate for. Barefoot shoes by definition DO NOT have arch support. Using arch supports from the time we are young causes the muscles, ligaments and tendons of our arches to atrophy and weaken to the point where we then need arch support. However, many medical professionals are realizing that through transitioning to barefoot shoes (zero drop, with no arch support, wide toe boxes that allow our toes to splay naturally, and thin flexible soles), we can re-strengthen our arches over time and rebuild healthier feet. So, with all of that said, Flux makes barefoot shoes, so no, there is no arch support. I'm not a doctor, and I'm not advising you what to do. I would just recommend that you search out what you might do on your own. Best of luck to you on your journey!

[@Samguitarguy94]

@@barefootshoejosh thank you for the explanation! I started using arch support shoes since 2020 because I’m a doctor, so long hours standing. However your explanation definitely makes sense, and of course I will be doing more research into finding what works best. Thanks again, keep up the good work! 😊

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@Samguitarguy94 awesome. Please keep me posted if you learn or experience anything interesting in regard to barefoot shoes. With you being a doctor, I would be very interested.

[@Everblack666]

Would these be a good choice for someones first barefoot shoe? I want to start wearing barefoot but not sure where to start

[@barefootshoejosh]

Well this is a running shoe. So if you're just going to try barefoot shoes for your first time, you may not want to start by running immediately. Of course, you could wear these just for walking and be fine though.. That said, Flux's other shoe model (which I've also reviewed here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqTFYWdnitF7brM), the Adapt Trainer has more of a casual, everyday shoe look to it. But if this running shoe matches your style, by all means, go for it!

[@Everblack666]

I'll probably check one out, I'm on my feet in a warehouse for long hours at work like you mentioned, so these sound like a good choice

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@Everblack666 Oh yeah, that's a good use case. I actually ran into a nurse at a hospital about a week ago that was wearing these. He said it's made a night-and-day difference for him, his back pain, etc. Well, if you end up grabbing some, don't forget to save 10% by using my affiliate link: bit.ly/fluxjosh

[@Everblack666]

Fantastic, I have a lot of foot, knee and back pain at the end of the day, so these sound perfect! Ive been debating barefoot shoes for a while, and I think these seem like a great place to start, thanks for the advice, and the video!

[@topg3200]

What do you think about the Nike Pegasus 41 ? My abductor digito minimi was hurting from using my worn out Pegasus 39 (2 years of use) I’m debating on trying out these Flux Adapt Runners, or even the Nike free Run 2018 ( designed to mimic bare foot running ) the Free run 2018 has a 8mm drop

[@barefootshoejosh]

On this channel, I tend to focus on companies that specialize in barefoot shoes, vs. conventional shoe companies like Nike. I advocate zero drop, no arch support, wide toe box, and thin flexible soles. These Flux have all of that, except the thin soles.. for that reason, they might be a great choice for someone like you that normally wears conventional shoes.

[@topg3200]

@@barefootshoejosh I see I’ve been also looking at the whitin but a friend says they have an arch support… also looking at splay… vivo etc… what’s ur favorite bare foot shoe? And are the flux adapt the best rec for someone that’s use to wearing a conventional shoe?

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@topg3200 Whitins have no arch support. I actually like them. They're inexpensive, and a good one for you to try without spending a bunch. Here's my Amazon affiliate link to the ones I own: amzn.to/3HnHP2Q and here's the review I did: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHK0mXaPbJqCndk .. I still wear these constantly. I actually just bought some Whitin slipons as well. Here's my link to those: amzn.to/4cuGIf8 .. I'm going to post the review of the slipons within the next couple of weeks. My favorite barefoot shoe? I have different favorites for different situations. The list would be long.

[@topg3200]

@@barefootshoejosh thanks how do whitins compare to the flux adapt runners

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@topg3200 Flux Runners have a 22mm sole. Their Trainers have a 10mm sole. Whitin doesn't clearly state the thickness of their soles, but my guess is probably around 7mm, plus an insole you can keep or take out. Best transitional shoe for someone moving over from conventional shoes? This Flux is good. I might opt for the Flux Adapt Trainer instead, since it's not specifically for running like this one is. You might also want to look at: * Origo shoes origoshoes.com/discount/ORIGOJOSH * Splay Athletics splayshoes.com/?ref=splayjosh * Vivobarefoot bit.ly/vivojosh * Feelgrounds bit.ly/joshfeelgrounds * Freet bit.ly/joshfreet Any of these might work for someone with average to slightly wide feet looking to transition to barefoot shoes.

[@Mr.V.O]

Are they pretty wide? Like a Freet or Be lenka shoe?

[@barefootshoejosh]

My Freets are 10.9cm. My Be Lenka are 10.8cm. These are around 10.6, so the difference (2-3mm) is minimal; but the uppers are stretchy... so even though my feet are 11+cm, I'm comfortable in them for sure.

[@zackearthworm]

What freets do you recommend? I'm really trying to accommodate my left big toe. I have altra wides that for some reason don't do it for me. My foot is either ok or not depending on my rhythym. I wear a size or 2 too big to accommodate my big toe. Right now i have 13s in altras... How would these flux compare? @@barefootshoejosh

[@zackearthworm]

What I mean by ok or not is when I am relaxed and my foot steps more out they are better but when I exert myself they seem too small

[@HealthAndFitness-nr4fw]

Are these wider than Altras? I have the Altra Escalante 4 and they're tight on the right side of my right foot

[@barefootshoejosh]

Hi.. apologies for the delay in getting back to you. I've been out of state on vacation for the last week. My size 11 Flux Adapt Runners' insoles measure 10.6cm, but the mesh material is very flexible, and more than accommodates my 11cm wide feet. I don't own any Altras. I hope this helps!

[@millone3393]

Sorry, nope. Not for me. How long will the sole last before it deforms? Very well done video.

[@crazilyon]

Agreed these shoes are sounding very much like what happened when shoes first started down the excessive padding and support hell hole.

[@barefootshoejosh]

They're not for everyone, but I mentioned some specific cases in the video where they would be useful. Like I said, It's fine to go hardcore barefoot 95% of the time, but have a little cushion if and when you need it.

[@alanprice9453]

Are they true to fit?

[@barefootshoejosh]

If you are used to barefoot shoes, then yes. If you're not used to barefoot shoes, you might think they're a bit large, due to the extra width, etc. Best thing to do is measure your feet, look at their sizing chart, and buy the shoe that gives you an extra 1-1.5 extra centimeters in length inside the shoe so you have some extra space.

[@alanprice9453]

@@barefootshoejosh thank you very much!

[@barefootshoejosh]

@@alanprice9453 no prob man good luck!

[@emmilow1936]

Thank you!

[@barefootshoejosh]

For what? The review? You're welcome! :)

[@Everblack666]

Nevermind, saw the part later in the video lol

[@RileeBolduc]

Great review! I bought the adapt runners because I've been getting back into running. However, I've been wearing shamma sandals and xero HFS running sneakers for a few years now. I was between the trainers and runners, but I'm wondering, would the trainers be fine for running 3-5 miles per day? Just for a future purchase?

[@barefootshoejosh]

Thanks for commenting. I mean, they're cross trainers; and my definition of cross-trainers includes running along with other sporting activities. They don't have that "toe-off" forefoot shape of the running shoe, but I think they would work fine. I have jogged a half-mile in them probably 10 times, and they worked fine for me. If you end up getting some, don't forget to save 10% by using my affiliate link: bit.ly/fluxjosh Thanks-- Josh