Vivobarefoot Gobi II Premium Leather Mens — Review

Description

The Gobi II Sneaker is Vivobarefoot's premium leather casual shoe for men — a low-profile desert boot shape in smooth leather with barefoot credentials. The premium leather version uses a higher-grade hide than the standard Gobi, giving it a dressier look that works with chinos and smart-casual outfits as well as jeans.

The Gobi range has been a Vivobarefoot staple for years, and the II Sneaker is the low-cut version of their classic desert boot silhouette. It's one of the few barefoot shoes that doesn't scream "barefoot shoe" — the styling is understated enough for office environments where sports-style barefoot shoes wouldn't fit.

How does it compare? The Groundies Amsterdam or Milano serve a similar purpose — dressy barefoot shoes for men. Groundies tends to have a slightly narrower fit and more European styling. The Be Lenka York is another alternative, offering a wider toe box at a lower price but with less refined leather. Within Vivobarefoot's own range, the Ra IV is sportier (more sneaker than desert boot), while the Geo Court is their court-shoe option.

Sizing & fit: Runs true to Vivobarefoot sizing. The premium leather is stiffer than the canvas versions — allow 4-6 days of break-in. The toe box is standard Vivobarefoot width. If you have very wide feet, this may feel snug initially; the leather will stretch slightly.

What we like: Genuine office-appropriate styling in a barefoot shoe, premium leather that develops patina over time, versatile low-profile shape. Worth considering: The premium leather break-in is the longest of any Gobi variant. Higher price than canvas or vegan versions.

FAQ:

Q: Can I wear the Gobi II Sneaker to the office? A: Yes — the premium leather and desert boot styling make it one of the most office-friendly barefoot shoes available. It pairs well with chinos, trousers, and smart jeans.

Q: What's the difference between the Gobi II and Gobi III? A: The Gobi III updated the sole compound and refined the shape slightly. Both use the same barefoot sole thickness and zero-drop design. If the III is available in your size, it's the newer model.

Q: How does the Gobi II compare to Groundies dress shoes? A: Groundies offers more refined European styling in a slightly narrower fit. The Gobi II has a wider toe box and a more casual desert-boot look. Both work for smart-casual environments.