My boyfriend swears by his black with lime green laced Chuck Taylor's!!!

Adidas Sambas are extremely versatile, they are like chucks but with extra thick (totally flat too) bottoms. They make things movements where you have to push off your heels and/or toes very easy...squats, running intensely, etc. Vibrams and most barefoot mimics don't have enough side cushioning. Sambas have lots of surface and grip, it's like having a horseshoe with tire treads (running shoe of choice).

Merrel tough glove (leather) is a very good barefoot mimic shoe...it looks like a normal shoe and isn't all funky colored or weird looking like other mimics or Vibrams. What I use on upper body training days and for walking (not running).

For calves, I use running shoes, PUMAS because they have practically no cushioning (and are flat) and force you to use the sides and toes. Oddly enough, these suck for running (not enough grip). These can be tricky to balance with when squatting. VIBRAMS SUCK FOR CALVES! I've gone through two pairs training calves, the toe gives out eventually.

Chris Davey does his squats in Moccasins so I heard. When he deadlifts he uses some Doc Martins and knee high socks.

Chris Davey does his squats in Moccasins so I heard. When he deadlifts he uses some Doc Martins and knee high socks.

you got it wrong, moccasins for squats & deads in the coldest week of winter.

Would love to wear some in a comp to be a smart *kitten* actually :laugh:

hahaha….

Big *kitten* coin in the shoe haha.

I go barefoot for squats and dead lifts. Got a pair of vabrims on order too