As someone who owned them before, this is a very good overview of the shoe. I would like to add that the crease at the flex point varies from shoe to shoe. In my first pair it was so painful I had to return them, but the replacement was good out of the box. Just something to keep in mind. Oh yeah and the glue they use is absolute shit. The sole separated from all my Vivo's pretty much immediately (only at the flex point). It doesn't impact the performance of the shoes but at that price point, it's a little disappointing.
So far, only got the Primus Lite III, but I am of the opinion that the durability makes them worth the price. I think they have some policy where you can return your worn out pair and get 20% of the cost back. I just ordered Ra III on revivo, which is where you can buy used and repaired ones for a lower price. I am expecting the leather Ra III to last a really long time, since I allready have wax to treat the leather every now and then to make sure it does not dry out.
It's unforgivable for the biggest barefoot company to make shoes that prevent outer toe splay. That should be the end of that discussion. It literally prevents you from having healthy feet. I get that they fit some people but most people struggle. Their shallow depth is also a problem. Why should so many people have to be forced to use them without the insole? Maybe you want it there, especially in the winter that you need to keep your feet warm. Plus it makes them duck beak shaped which looks goofy. They have the best designs and the best technologies, but the terrible last they use ruins both their looks and usability. But why even bother with those when the Mesa Trail is 100 times more comfortable, lighter, more flexible and cheaper.
To counter that argument, I know many people that can't use the Mesa Trail because there's too much depth, and need a shallower shoe (hence the Primus Trail works). We've got to remember there are differently shaped feet and ankles out there, and that may even change over time (as we build foot strength + gain/loose fat). It's all about finding the shoe that fits you right. If that's the Mesa Trail II (like me), awesome! But it may not work for everyone.
