Lems Primal Eco Shoe Review

Our Score:

4.7 / 5

How was this score calculated?

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3-Word Description:

Conscientious, responsive, sustainable

Best uses:

Casual wear, walking, hiking, light running, travel, indoor use, stretching and mobility exercises, transitioning to minimalist footwear

Suitable for:

Minimalist footwear enthusiasts, those with foot pain or foot conditions, active people looking for comfort, people seeking better posture and alignment, eco-conscious consumers, travelers and frequent walkers, those who are new to minimalist footwear, those who prefer barefoot-like experiences but want the protection of shoes

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Dr. Robyn's Take:

As a practitioner focused on foot health, I highly recommend the Lems Primal Eco shoe for anyone looking to improve their foot function. Its minimalist design, wide toe box, and flexible sole allow your feet to move naturally, strengthening the muscles and promoting better alignment. Whether you’re walking, standing, or transitioning from conventional shoes, the Primal Eco supports healthier feet while providing lasting comfort and durability. A truly foot-friendly choice!

Dr. Marty's Take:

The Lems Primal Eco is a standout option for anyone looking to enhance foot strength and mobility. Its wide toe box and flexible sole allow your feet to function as nature intended, promoting better posture and alignment. I appreciate how it encourages natural movement by stripping away the excess material that often hinders foot form and function. Whether you’re transitioning to minimalist footwear or seeking a more foot-friendly option, the Primal Eco is a great choice.

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Helpful tip:

For a fun and novel experience, consider wearing your Lems Primal Eco shoes barefoot from time to time. The minimalist design of this versatile model works best when your feet are directly in contact with the footbed, allowing you to feel the ground and engage your foot muscles naturally. This approach helps build foot strength and fosters a greater connection with the natural world. Start gradually, and as your feet adjust, you’ll experience a more natural gait and benefit from enhanced sensory feedback.

Featured Testimonial:

“I’ve been wearing the Lems Primal Eco for a few months now, and I couldn’t be happier. The wide toe box and flexible design let my feet move naturally, which has made a huge difference in my comfort and posture. At first, I was skeptical about the minimalist style, but it’s actually been a game-changer. My feet feel stronger, and I’ve noticed less discomfort throughout the day. These shoes are now my go-to for everything!” —S.T., San Diego, CA

Jump to summary

The Lems Primal Eco shoe represents the perfect fusion of minimalist design, comfort, and sustainability for those seeking a natural approach to footwear. Crafted with the conscious consumer in mind, the Primal Eco's upper incorporates up to 50 percent recycled materials, making it not only a versatile and lightweight option but also a responsible choice for the planet. With a wide toe box that allows for natural toe splay and a flexible sole that encourages your foot to become strong on its own, this shoe is ideal for those who value both foot function and environmental impact. Whether you're hiking, running errands, or simply enjoying a casual day outdoors, the Lems Primal Eco is a step toward a more mindful, healthier lifestyle. In this Lems Primal Eco shoe review, we'll answer the most important questions that pertain to this highly anticipated model and take a closer look at its merits and potential limitations. We'll also discuss the interplay of this shoe with other helpful footgear and offer comments on factors such as durability and comfort.

Read on for our full review of the conscientious Lems Primal Eco!

What Are the Main Features of the Lems Primal Eco Shoe?

The Lems Primal Eco shoe is more than just a minimalist footwear option—it’s a thoughtful blend of design, comfort, and sustainability. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a city commuter, or simply someone looking to reduce your environmental footprint, the Primal Eco offers a range of features that elevate both your shoe-wearing experience and your connection to the planet. Here, then, are the standout features that make the Lems Primal Eco a unique and compelling footwear choice for mindful consumers:

• Minimalist Design: The Lems Primal Eco embraces a minimalist design philosophy that prioritizes simplicity and functionality. Featuring a clean, healthy-foot-shaped silhouette, this shoe is designed to support natural foot function and provide a barefoot-like experience. Its wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, promoting proper alignment and eliminating the pain and problems caused by more constricting shoes. The low-profile, lightweight design encourages an effortless stride, making it ideal for those who prefer a more grounded and unrestricted feel while walking or running.
• Eco-Friendly Materials: True to its name, the Lems Primal Eco boasts an environmentally conscious design that prioritizes sustainability without compromising comfort or performance. The upper features a blend of recycled materials, including 30 percent recycled mesh, 30 percent recycled PU synthetic for the toe cap and heel counter, and 30 percent recycled microfiber for the tongue, quarter, and heel top. The tongue and collar lining mesh is made from 80 percent recycled material, while the lace and heel webbing are 100 percent recycled. Additionally, the insole includes a top layer of 100 percent recycled cork and 40 percent recycled PU foam. The tough-wearing rubber outsole, as well as welded features in the upper that strengthen the eyestays, further minimize environmental impact, ensuring longevity and comfort with every step while reducing the carbon footprint of production.
• Ultra-Wide Toe Box: One of the standout features of the Lems Primal Eco is its signature ultra-wide toe box, which allows ample room for your toes to spread naturally. This design is rooted in the idea that constricting footwear—such as shoes with tapering toe boxes—can hinder foot health and lead to discomfort or long-term issues. With the Primal Eco, your feet are free to move as they would in a more natural, barefoot environment, reducing pressure on your toes and improving overall foot alignment. Whether you're walking, running, or standing for long periods, this feature supports a healthier and more functional musculoskeletal system.
• Flexible, Lightweight & Durable Sole: The sole of the Lems Primal Eco is designed to be as flexible and lightweight as possible, offering a responsive feel with every step. The injection-blown rubber (IBR) outsole is highly pliable, allowing the shoe to bend and move with the natural motion of your foot. This flexibility helps reduce fatigue by allowing for a more fluid gait, whether on pavement or rougher terrain. Additionally, the minimal weight of the shoe contributes to a sense of freedom and agility, making it a great choice for those who seek a shoe that won’t weigh them down during active pursuits. And the durable rubber outsole ensures you maintain stability and traction, enhancing safety and performance.
• Zero-Drop Platform: The Lems Primal Eco features a zero-drop platform, meaning there is no height difference between your heel and your toes. This design feature promotes a more natural walking or running gait by encouraging proper posture and alignment, and it's an important factor in promoting natural arch support. Zero-drop footwear also helps to distribute your body weight more evenly across your feet, preventing the heel-striking pattern common in traditional, elevated-heel shoes. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who want to strengthen their foot muscles and improve their balance, as it mimics the natural stance your body assumes when walking barefoot.
• Lightweight Construction: Weighing in at only about 9 ounces per shoe, the Lems Primal Eco is designed for those who value a light, agile feel underfoot. Its lightweight construction is particularly beneficial for active individuals who need a shoe that won’t slow them down, whether they're running, walking long distances, or simply going about their day. The shoe’s minimal structure reduces foot strain, helping to prevent fatigue even during extended wear. This makes the Primal Eco an excellent choice for people looking for a shoe that blends performance and comfort without unnecessary bulk.
• Breathable Upper: The breathable upper of the Lems Primal Eco keeps your feet cool and comfortable, even during long days on the move. Indeed, the use of recycled microfiber and airmesh in this shoe's upper, as well as the inclusion of a 100 percent moisture-wicking polyester lining, helps prevent your feet from becoming overly hot or sweaty. This breathability is particularly beneficial in warm weather or when engaging in physical activity, as it helps regulate foot temperature, promote hygienic airflow, and prevent odor. The design also ensures that this shoe is roomy enough to comfortably accommodate a wide range of foot shapes and sizes, further enhancing overall comfort and keeping your feet dry.
• Versatile Styling: The Lems Primal Eco is designed to be a versatile option for a variety of occasions and activities. Its minimalist, neutral aesthetic allows it to seamlessly integrate into a wide range of outfits, from casual daywear to more active, outdoor attire. The simplicity of the design also makes it easy to pair with both athletic and non-athletic gear, making it equally suitable for a trip to the gym, a weekend hike, or a relaxed day out in the city. The shoe’s understated look means it’s a go-to option for those seeking practicality with style, without the need for flashy branding or complex features.
• Comfortable Footbed: The footbed of the Lems Primal Eco is designed with comfort in mind, offering just the right amount of material beneath the foot while preserving the shoe’s minimalist aesthetic. The footbed provides subtle cushioning that makes walking for extended periods more comfortable while still allowing for a barefoot-like experience. The absence of a thick, overbuilt sole ensures that the footbed remains flexible while providing a sufficient amount of padding to absorb impact from walking or running on hard surfaces. This feature is ideal for those who want a comfortable, responsive feel without feeling disconnected from the ground beneath them.

The Lems Primal Eco brings together a host of features that deliver exceptional comfort, flexibility, and sustainability. The minimalist design, wide toe box, and flexible sole encourage a more natural walking experience, while the use of eco-friendly materials ensures that you can feel good about your environmental impact. Its breathable upper, durable rubber outsole, and zero-drop platform further enhance its functionality, making it a great option for a variety of activities, from outdoor adventures to everyday wear (more on this in the next section).

What Activities Is the Lems Primal Eco Shoe Suitable For?

The Lems Primal Eco shoe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of activities that prioritize comfort, mobility, and agility. Its flexible, lightweight construction and responsive rubber outsole make it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures, from light hiking on trails to casual walks through the park. The breathable upper and zero-drop platform also make it a great option for those who engage in low-impact exercises, such as yoga, stretching, or Pilates, as it encourages proper alignment and natural foot movement. For city dwellers, the Primal Eco serves as a perfect everyday shoe, offering comfort for hours of urban exploration, commuting, or running errands. It’s also a great fit for those who prefer minimalist running, as the shoe’s design supports a natural gait, making it ideal for short to moderate runs on paved surfaces. Whether you're hitting the gym, strolling along the beach, or simply looking for a comfortable, eco-conscious shoe for all-day wear, the Lems Primal Eco is a dynamic and practical choice that adapts to a variety of lifestyles.

Is the Lems Primal Eco Shoe a Good Hiking Shoe?

The Lems Primal Eco shoe is a surprisingly good hiking shoe, especially for those who appreciate minimalist design and natural foot movement. Its flexible sole and low overall stack height allow for a more grounded hiking experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a closer connection to the trail beneath them. The durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction, ensuring stability on both smooth and rugged terrain, while the zero-drop platform encourages a more natural gait and proper posture, reducing the strain on joints over long distances. The wide toe box also adds comfort by allowing your toes to splay, reducing the chance of blisters and other foot problems on extended hikes. In fact, most wearers of this lightweight athletic shoe will find their feet to be in excellent shape after long days (or even weeks) on the trail. Whether you’re trekking on well-worn paths or navigating more difficult terrain, the Primal Eco offers the freedom and foundation you need to tackle a variety of trails.

In addition to its performance features, the Lems Primal Eco shoe’s eco-friendly materials make it a responsible choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Made with a high percentage of recycled and sustainable materials, it’s a shoe that aligns with a more environmentally conscious lifestyle. As mentioned earlier, the breathable upper also helps regulate temperature and wick moisture, which is particularly beneficial for keeping your feet cool and dry on longer hikes. While the Primal Eco may not offer the heavy-duty “support” of traditional hiking boots, its lightweight, flexible design is perfect for those seeking a more nimble, barefoot-inspired hiking experience. For shorter to moderate hikes, or for those who value comfort and eco-consciousness over extra padding and bulk, the Lems Primal Eco is a great choice. And for those who want to go a bit further, the Primal Eco does not disappoint: Our wear-tester used this minimalist athletic shoe exclusively (and very successfully) while hiking with a weighted pack over 225 miles on the rugged Slovenian Mountain Trail.

What Foot Conditions Is the Lems Primal Eco Shoe Suitable For?

The Lems Primal Eco is well suited for a variety of foot conditions, particularly those that benefit from a more natural, spacious shoe fit. Its wide toe box allows ample room for your toes to spread and move freely, which can—when paired with other rehabilitative tools and techniques—help address problems such as bunions, hammertoes, overlapping toes, and plantar fasciosis. This shoe's level sole and wide toe box also promote proper foot alignment, which can reduce the risk of developing ball-of-foot conditions such as capsulitis, neuromas, and sesamoiditis. For those with flat feet or low arches, the zero-drop platform encourages a more neutral walking posture, improving overall foot mechanics. Additionally, the lightweight, breathable construction of the Primal Eco helps prevent foot swelling and overheating, making it an excellent choice for people with sensitive feet or those prone to foot fatigue. And the low stack height and wide support platform of this minimalist everyday shoe help prevent the pain and joint alignment issues that may occur with excessive pronation. Overall, the Primal Eco's combination of comfort, natural movement, and spacious fit makes it an ideal option for those looking to manage or prevent foot-related discomfort without compromising on style or performance.

Do I Need To Transition to Wearing the Lems Primal Eco Shoe?

Transitioning to the Lems Primal Eco shoe can be a wise choice, especially if you’re looking to adopt a more natural, minimalist approach to footwear. If you’ve been accustomed to conventional footwear with a lot of padding, built-in arch support, and heel elevation and toe spring, your feet may need some time to adjust to the Lems Primal Eco’s zero-drop platform and flexible sole. These foot-friendly design features encourage a more natural foot position and gait, which can require a period of adaptation. During the transition, you might consider wearing this zero-drop shoe for shorter periods of time at first and then gradually increasing your wear time as your feet become accustomed to the change. This allows your muscles, tendons, and ligaments to strengthen and adjust, which is especially important for people who’ve been relying on overly cushioned or rigid footwear for years or decades.

That said, transitioning to the Primal Eco may be easier for those who already have experience with barefoot or minimalist shoes, as the design is built to mimic a more natural standing and walking experience. If you have specific foot conditions or are looking to build a more robust and resilient musculoskeletal system, the Primal Eco offers a great opportunity to improve your posture, gait, and overall foot health over time. It’s also ideal for those who engage in low-impact activities like walking, hiking, or yoga, as the shoe’s design encourages natural movement. Ultimately, whether or not you need to transition depends on your current footwear habits and your personal comfort preferences, but if you’re willing to make the adjustment, the Lems Primal Eco can be a great choice for promoting healthier, more natural foot function. This article discusses how to safely and successfully transition to minimalist footwear in more detail.

Does the Lems Primal Eco Shoe Work Well With Correct Toes & Other Footgear?

The Lems Primal Eco shoe pairs nicely with Correct Toes toe spacers for most sets of feet. Thanks to its wide, accommodating toe box, the Primal Eco provides ample room for your toes to spread naturally, allowing Correct Toes to function as intended. This powerful footgear combination helps promote optimal toe alignment, improve foot and toe circulation, enable natural arch support, encourage the development of your intrinsic foot muscles, and prevent or address a wide range of common foot and toe problems. Because Correct Toes is made of supple and durable medical-grade silicone, you can comfortably use this device inside this wide toe box shoe for all kinds of active pursuits, including hiking, running, or gym workouts, as well as for the more standard, steady-state activities of daily life. If you find you need a little more room inside of the shoe to house your toes with Correct Toes on, you can always remove the included (optional) cork-topped PU insole.

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The Lems Primal Eco also works well with a variety of other natural footgear, helping to amplify the benefits of each. The Primal Eco provides the ideal environment for Injinji toe socks, which separate and align your toes to encourage natural toe splay, improve foot and toe circulation, and reduce friction between your toes. Similarly, the Primal Eco works well in combination with Pedag metatarsal pads or Strutz Pro foot pads, which provide targeted relief for ball-of-foot problems and help address hammertoes and other kinds of crooked toes. The shoe’s zero-drop platform and flexible sole also pair seamlessly with Naboso insoles, and the Primal Eco works well alongside other Naboso proprioceptive products, too, to stimulate your foot’s sensory receptors and improve overall balance, proprioception, and foot strength. Additionally, you can use tools such as the BlackBoard Basic, Meta Trigger, and ToeBands to support and enhance the musculoskeletal health gains that come with using a foot-building shoe like the Lems Primal Eco.

What Size Lems Primal Eco Shoe Should I Choose?

When choosing the right size for the Lems Primal Eco shoe, it’s important to consider both the shoe’s unique fit and your personal foot shape. The Primal Eco is designed with a wide toe box to allow for natural toe splay, so if you have a wider foot or prefer extra room in the forefoot, you'll probably want to opt for your usual size or even a half size up for added comfort. Most wearers, including those with relatively narrow feet, will find that this environmentally friendly everyday shoe is sufficiently snug where it's required (around the heel and throughout the instep) and then roomy in the forefoot. As the Primal Eco tends to fit true to size in terms of length, the most important factor is ensuring the width accommodates your natural foot shape while allowing for proper movement. To ensure the best fit, it’s helpful to try the shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen, which largely mirrors their natural size when standing or walking. Ultimately, choosing the right size will enhance this shoe's ability to support your foot’s natural biomechanics and provide lasting comfort throughout your daily activities.

How Do Men’s vs. Women’s Versions of the Lems Primal Eco Compare?

Lems does not offer gender-specific sizing for the Primal Eco, which means that the shoe is designed to accommodate a wide range of foot shapes and sizes, regardless of gender. That said, there are subtle anatomical differences between men’s and women’s feet that can influence the fit and feel of the Primal Eco. Men typically have wider feet with greater foot volume, especially in the forefoot and heel, so they may find the shoe’s spacious toe box and flexible construction to be a comfortable fit right out of the box, with sufficient room for natural toe splay. Women's feet, on the other hand, are typically narrower (specifically, the ball of the foot is narrower in relation to the heel), so the toe box of this shoe may feel a bit more roomy initially. Overall, though, the Primal Eco’s minimalist design, zero-drop sole, and overall versatility make it a great option for both men and women seeking a shoe that promotes natural foot movement and foot health. Ultimately, the best fit depends on your specific foot shape, and Primal Eco's gender-neutral design, as well as the availability of this shoe in half sizes, allows for flexibility and customization to meet individual needs.

Is the Lems Primal Eco Durable?

Built with high-quality, eco-friendly materials, the Lems Primal Eco shoe is designed with durability in mind. Indeed, this flexible casual shoe is crafted to withstand daily wear and tear while remaining in good working form. The shoe’s simple yet robust design ensures that it holds up well under regular use, whether you’re walking, hiking, or simply navigating through your daily activities. While it doesn’t possess the heavy reinforcement found in more traditional, cushioned footwear—which is a virtue, in our opinion—the Primal Eco’s construction promotes natural foot movement and a more even wearing of the materials comprising it. The surprisingly tough rubber outsole offers good traction and dependability, and the upper materials are designed to resist scuffs and abrasions, ensuring the shoe remains functional and aesthetically appealing even with regular use. For those who prioritize longevity in their footwear, the Primal Eco is a durable, sustainable option that supports both foot health and the environment.

Is the Lems Primal Eco Comfortable?

The Lems Primal Eco shoe is exceptionally comfortable, particularly for those who prioritize natural foot movement and minimal interference with their stride. The shoe’s lightweight, flexible design allows your foot to move freely, promoting a more natural gait. With its wide toe box, the Primal Eco provides ample room for your toes to spread and function as they should, reducing pressure on your toes and preventing the kind of discomfort that often comes with more restrictive footwear. The zero-drop sole helps maintain proper foot alignment from heel to toe, which encourages a balanced posture and a more even distribution of body weight. This shoe is also built with soft yet durable materials that keep your feet comfortable throughout the day, whether you're on your feet for hours or going for a long walk in nature. While the Primal Eco’s minimalist design does not incorporate heavy cushioning, its lack of excess padding actually enhances comfort by allowing your foot’s natural structure and movement to shine through, promoting better circulation and foot strength. For those who embrace a more natural approach to footwear, the Primal Eco offers a high level of comfort without sacrificing foot health.

Are There Any Additional Considerations for This Shoe?

Before purchasing the Lems Primal Eco, it’s important to consider a few factors that could affect your experience, especially if you’re new to minimalist footwear. While this shoe offers numerous benefits for foot and musculoskeletal health, including improved joint alignment, enhanced toe splay, and more natural movement, there are some potential limitations that you should evaluate. These considerations highlight both the challenges and long-term advantages of transitioning to a more natural, foot-friendly shoe. Here, then, are some additional considerations for this shoe:

• Adjusting to Minimalist Design: The Lems Primal Eco is a minimalist shoe, meaning it has relatively little cushioning and no built-in conventional arch support. For those used to heavily padded or structured footwear, this can feel like a significant shift. The first few days or weeks of wearing the Primal Eco may require some adjustment as your feet adapt to more natural movement and a higher degree of interaction with the ground. However, this shift is actually a key benefit in the long run, as minimalist shoes encourage better foot biomechanics, promote muscle engagement, and allow for a more natural gait. The initial discomfort from lack of cushioning can lead to stronger, healthier feet that are less prone to long-term pain or dysfunction.
• Wide Toe Box Might Feel Unusual: The wide toe box of the Primal Eco is a standout feature that encourages natural toe splay, but for those accustomed to footwear with tapering toe boxes, this wide fit might feel unfamiliar or even a bit too spacious at first. If you're used to shoes that hug your foot tightly, the Primal Eco's roomier fit might seem less secure. However, the wide, anatomical toe box is hugely important for foot health, as it eliminates pinch forces on the toes, helps prevent issues like bunions and hammertoes, and allows for more optimal foot biomechanics. Over time, you'll likely notice improvements in comfort, strength, and alignment as your toes spread out and your feet regain their natural form and function.
• Lack of Heavy Cushioning: One of the key aspects of the Primal Eco is its lack of excessive cushioning, which some might find less comfortable, especially on hard or uneven surfaces. If you're used to the plush comfort of conventional shoes with thick foam padding, the firmer, more direct feel of the Primal Eco may take some getting used to. While this can be a downside for those who prioritize maximum cushioning, the absence of extra padding is actually an advantage for those seeking a closer, more intimate connection with the ground. This “less-is-more” design encourages your foot to absorb impact naturally, which promotes better posture, gait mechanics, and long-term foot health.
• Not Ideal for High-Impact Activities: While the Primal Eco is a great all-around shoe for walking, casual use, and hikes of varying duration and intensity, it may not offer quite enough protection for high-impact activities. If you're a high-mileage runner or engage in strenuous physical activity that requires a large amount of shock absorption, you might find the Primal Eco lacking in certain areas. However, this limitation is a trade-off for the shoe's minimalist design, which is better suited to those seeking to strengthen their feet and improve their overall foot health. For lighter activities, the Primal Eco provides an ideal platform, but for higher-impact sports, you may want to consider other footwear options that offer more specialized support.
• Initial Transition Period: Switching to the Lems Primal Eco may require a transition period, particularly for those who have spent years or decades wearing traditional, heavily structured shoes. The lack of arch support, cushioning, and rigid structure can feel strange initially, and some people may experience discomfort or soreness in their feet as they adjust to the shoe’s relatively thin and flexible outsole. However, this transitional period is a natural part of moving toward a more foot-healthy lifestyle. As your feet strengthen and become more accustomed to the minimalist design, you’ll likely experience long-term benefits, including improved foot function, better posture, and reduced pain. For most people, the initial discomfort is simply a temporary phase in the process of reclaiming your feet’s natural strength and function.

Ultimately, while the Lems Primal Eco may feel unfamiliar at first for some—whether due to its minimalist design, wide toe box, or lack of heavy cushioning—these features are specifically designed to improve foot health over time. The initial adjustment period, which may include some mild discomfort, is part of the process of strengthening your feet and restoring natural movement. While it may not be suited for high-impact activities or those who prefer more traditional shoe structures, the Primal Eco’s benefits, such as better posture, enhanced toe freedom, and a closer connection to the ground, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more natural and functional footwear experience.

Lems Primal Eco Shoe Review: In Summary

The Lems Primal Eco shoe is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a footwear option that prioritizes natural foot function and long-term foot health. Its minimalist design, ultra-wide toe box, and completely level sole from heel to toe work together to promote proper foot and musculoskeletal biomechanics, encourage optimal toe splay, and restore your body’s natural alignment. Whether you're walking, running, hiking, or simply spending time on your feet, the Primal Eco provides a stable base and foundation for your feet, helping to strengthen foot muscles, improve full-body posture, and reduce foot fatigue and discomfort over time. Made from eco-friendly materials, this shoe not only supports your health but also the health of the planet. With its durability, flexibility, versatility, and comfort, the Lems Primal Eco is an investment in both your physical well-being and your environmental values, and it offers a perfect balance of functionality and sustainability for all those ready to embrace a more natural approach to footwear.

The Lems Primal Eco scores 4.7 (out of 5) on the NFAR scale, which puts it in the “stellar” range for foot-healthiness.

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