Tadeevo is a Polish-based company that produces barefoot shoes, including winter boots designed for men and women. Their commitment to using science to produce some of the most minimal shoes in the market sets them apart from other brands. In this review article, we will highlight the features of the Tadeevo shoe and how they compare to other barefoot shoes.
Tadeevo shoe review
Materials
Materials play a crucial role in the comfort and flexibility of shoes. These shoes are very lightweight and incredibly flexible with leather and breathable mesh on top. The lack of strong structure in these shoes means they move with your feet. The outsole is rubber while the insole is leather, but it has a rough texture. Consequently, it is advisable to wear either North Sole insoles or no-show socks with a seam underneath to avoid pinching your toes. However, despite this minor issue, the shoes are astonishingly comfortable.
One of the most striking aspects of these shoes is how flexible they are. The tongue of the shoe is thin and sometimes falls to one side. The Tadeevo shoes are completely flat and have a thin stack height of 5mm. They are foot-shaped, which is fantastic news for those transitioning to barefoot. However, those who are not used to barefoot shoes may need some extra cushioning. North Sole’s zero-drop insoles are an excellent option for this purpose.
Price
Price is always a crucial factor to consider, and these shoes range from 94−99, inclusive of free shipping. This cost is reasonable and may even be cheaper compared to other barefoot shoes. Be aware that the company accepts returns within 30 days, but the buyer pays for return shipping. In our case, returning a pair of winter shoes cost $30; refunds only processed after waiting for over a month.
Size
The Tadeevo shoes come in various sizes, so it’s crucial to use their size guide before buying. We followed their chart, and it proved accurate. The size 37 was the best fit for our reviewer, but there was enough wiggle room to opt for a size 36 if required. The shoes’ laces are adjustable, so you can customize the tightness around your foot for maximal comfort.
Width Comparison
One of the most outstanding features of the Tadeevo shoes is their design; the shoe box is one of the widest out there, comparable to Lems Boulder Boots. The upper material of Tadeevo shoes is flexible, and it can expand beyond the sole. This gives the shoes even more space than Lems. With this structure, it has a definite advantage for people with Greek feet. The shoe box is not square and is hence more flexible than other barefoot shoe brands like Vivobarefoot, providing more space for the 4th and 5th toes.
Are they warm enough for cold temperatures?
Tadeevo recommends these shoes for temperatures as low as 0F (-18c). Our reviewer tried these boots in the coldest winter days, where temperatures reached -10F(-23C), and found that they kept her feet warm. The reviewer walked around in them, so they performed well for walking. The boots’ insoles were a sheepskin insole plus two sets of socks (Injinji plus wool), providing ample space for the extra insulation.
One thing to note is that the ankle height of the shoe is relatively low, measuring only 10 cm. Hence, the shoes are not ideal for walking on deep snow without allowing snow inside the shoes.
Do they have good traction?
The Tadeevo winter shoes have good traction and are better than other barefoot winter shoes. However, they are still not ideal on slippery surfaces. It is, therefore, essential to approach these shoes with caution when walking on ice, especially if adding ice cleats or spikes to the soles.
Shoe care
To protect the shoes from harsh winter conditions like snow and rain, our reviewer applied a coat of Rain & Snow Wax Oil Waterproofing before wearing them. This environmentally safe coating helps to protect the shoes and keep them from getting waterlogged. However, living in the city exposed the shoes to a lot of salt stains. To avoid this, the reviewer used a cleaning solution of equal parts of water and vinegar to clean the shoes, then reapplied the waterproofing oil after cleaning.
To get the best comfort and insulation from the Tadeevo winter shoes, we recommend wearing wool insoles, which help protect the lining of the shoe from moisture and heat loss while providing extra cushioning for the feet.
In summary, the Tadeevo shoes are among the best barefoot winter shoes in the market, with a wide toe box that provides ample space for the feet. They perform well in cold temperatures and have good traction, but caution is advised when walking on slippery surfaces. With proper care and maintenance, the Tadeevo winter shoes will last a long time and provide the desired warmth and comfort during the cold winter months. They are lightweight, flexible, and comfortable, with rugged outsoles that offer excellent grip. While they are not necessarily the cheapest barefoot shoes, they are worth the investment for anyone looking for minimalist shoes that can be worn in various contexts.