The last pair of Lem’s I wrote about, the Lems Trailhead kept a rather traditional sneaker profile, while mixing in some hiking boot flair that made for a shoe that looks ready for the trail. While I know I prefer the more padded (though still zero-drop) nature of Lems ( as with my Boulder Boots), many prefer an even more minimal look and feel. For those folks, we’ve got the Lems Primal 2.
![](https://i0.wp.com/wristwatchreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Lems-Primal-8-1024x682.jpg?resize=726%2C484&ssl=1)
Basically, if you’re looking for the bare minimum to put on your feet, while still keeping things covered up, that’s where a shoe like the Lems Primal 2 comes in. I’ve not experienced them myself, but I’m guessing it’s similar to what I saw with the VivoBarefoot Stealth II – extremely light weight (the Lems are 6.9 oz), very breathable, and allowing your feet to move more naturally.
![](https://i0.wp.com/wristwatchreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Lems-Primal-1-1024x682.jpg?resize=726%2C484&ssl=1)
Now, if you’ve committed yourself to a vegan lifestyle – or simple care to know more about the materials going into your clothing and shoes – the Lems Primal 2 can set your mind at ease. Made of microfiber and breathable mesh, all of the components used (even the glue and the laces) are 100% vegan. Even their outsole meets that criteria, while still keeping the shoe light enough to float on the water (there’s a gif on the product page showing exactly this).
![](https://i0.wp.com/wristwatchreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Lems-Primal-2-1024x682.jpg?resize=726%2C484&ssl=1)
As with all Lems shoes, the Lems Primal 2 have a zero-drop sole to them, keeping your heel and forefoot aligned and flat on the ground, giving you the opportunity for a more natural movement and posture. Additionally, the wide toe box allows your toes to move. This is something I’ve appreciated more than I thought I would. I like to be able to move my toes in whatever the shoe, and the Lems (again, we’ve not seen these in person) allow that to happen.
![](https://i0.wp.com/wristwatchreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Lems-Primal-4-1024x682.jpg?resize=726%2C484&ssl=1)
The Lems Primal 2 come in a variety of colors, both in men’s and women’s sizes, all for the reasonable price of $105. If you’re on the hunt for a minimalist shoe – either for running, just getting about town, or to have a backup pair for travel – the Lems Primal 2 looks to cover off on a variety of bases. I personally would still opt for that Trailhead, but that’s just my own preference (and where I envision them being handy). If camping isn’t your thing, and you want some breezy kicks for summer, maybe the Lems Primal 2 deserve a spot on your list to consider. lemsshoes.com
![](https://i0.wp.com/wristwatchreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Lems-Primal-10-682x1024.jpg?resize=682%2C1024&ssl=1)
Shoe Overview
- Brand & Model: Lems Primal 2
- Price: $105
- Who’s it for? You’re wanting a lightweight, very breathable shoe, particularly one that is vegan-friendly
- Would I wear it? Maybe. I think the extra padding of the Trailhead is more my style
Specs from Lems
- Last: Lems Natural-Shape ™ Last
- Upper: Super-soft microfiber + open-weave mesh (100% vegan)
- Lining: 100% moisture-wicking polyester
- Outsole: 8.0mm LemsRubber™ (air-injection rubber)
- Footbed: 3.0mm removable PU insole
- Insole Board: 1.0mm PU strobel (lined with fabric on top)
- Stack Height: 9.0mm (not including 3.0mm footbed)
- Drop: 0.0mm ( Zero-Drop )
- Weight: 6.9oz/195g (size 43)