Freet Skeeby Review – A wide deep cushioned minimal option

If you’ve read my other Freet reviews, you’ll know that their models provide the traditional wide and deep shape. The new Skeeby is no different.

How does this shoe differ?

It has a larger stack height but remains very flexible. Additionally, it features a new bouncy insole.

I’d say if you’re missing the original Altra Escalante Racer, then the Skeeby may be worth a look.

Fit

Exceptionally wide toe box with a natural shape. One of the standout features of the Skeeby is its spacious toe box. The design is particularly squared off at the big toe, allowing for an unrestricted spread of the toes. Unlike many brands that taper sharply toward the pinky toe, the Skeeby maintains a broad profile. This fact alone is why many habituated barefoot folk are flocking to Freet shoes.

Generous midfoot width and overall volume. This shoe’s midfoot is wider than that of many competitors, including brands like Xero shoes and Vivobarefoot. It also features considerable depth, making it suitable for individuals with higher-volume feet. However, those with shallower feet might struggle to achieve a snug fit without making additional adjustments.

Sizing remains true to size in EU standards, but that’s not quite true for the US conversions. In my experience, the Skeeby runs true to EU sizing. I typically wear an EU 42 in Xero Shoes and Vivobarefoot and an EU 42.5 in Altra. With the Skeeby, my usual EU 42 fit well; however, I found that the US conversion (men’s size 8) was different from what I usually wear. If you rely on US sizing, it is essential to consult Freet’s size guide. Consider sizing down for a more secure fit if you are between sizes, as the upper will flex around your foot.

Knit upper enhances comfort but reduces lockdown. The shoe’s upper is made from a flexible knit material known as “bottle yarn,” which conforms comfortably to the foot’s shape. However, due to its soft and unstructured nature, it does not offer a high level of lockdown. Runners who require a more secure fit may need to tighten the laces significantly.

Feel

Lightweight but could be even lighter. The Skeeby weighs 260 grams, making it lightweight for a minimal road shoe, though it could be even lighter. The shoe features a stack height of 10.5mm, which includes a 4mm rebound insole. This design offers a bit of cushioning while still maintaining a good ground feel.

Highly flexible with excellent natural movement. The Skeeby is highly flexible and can roll almost into a ball, providing excellent torsional movement. Again, this is true throughout the Freet range and what we’ve come to expect. If you’re looking for a barefoot training tool, any Freet option could prove perfect.

Decent ground feel with optional customization. The 4mm rebound insole provides subtle bounce, balancing cushioning, and ground feel. Removing the insole allows for greater surface feedback, or you could switch it out for something a little more solid and traditional so the feel isn’t quite as bouncy.

Heel lacks structure, affecting security. The heel of the shoe is soft and unstructured, which is great for a barefoot feel but not for secureness. During lateral movements or faster-paced runs, the shoe may feel unstable. While this isn’t a significant concern for casual wear or slow runs, it makes the Skeeby less ideal for high-intensity workouts or gym work.

Lace system requires adjustments for a secure fit. The flexibility of the knit upper means that the lockdown may not be as secure as some people would like. I had to tighten the laces significantly to avoid my foot slipping. I also tried adding an extra insole for better volume management, but this diminished the ground feel. This is mostly a word of warning if you have shallow feet. Freet may not be for you.

Durability

Knit upper is comfortable but prone to wear. While the upper offers a sock-like fit, it raises durability concerns. Due to the lack of reinforcement in high-wear areas, it may show scuffing and damage sooner than expected, especially if used on rough surfaces. That said, considering this is a casual road shoe, it’s unlikely you’ll scuff the upper.

The outsole lacks grip on wet or icy terrain. The rubber outsole offers moderate traction, but I wouldn’t trust it in wet or icy conditions. On dry pavement, it performs adequately; however, if you frequently run in slippery environments, you may want to consider other options. I have already seen a thin layer shed from the outsole after 50km, and while that doesn’t indicate the wear over a long period of time, it’s something to keep an eye on.

The stitch-and-glue construction holds up well. Although the upper may have durability concerns, the Skeeby’s outsole is securely attached using both stitching and glue. This method ensures that the sole remains in place even after repeated flexing. Something that you do not see from many brands anymore, and they can often suffer because of this (I’m looking at your Vivobarefoot! 😁)

Eyelets could be a weak point over time. The lacing eyelets are holes in the knit weave, which may lead to stretching or wear with heavy use. This is important to monitor, especially if you often adjust your lacing for a more secure fit or you over-tighten to get a secure fit.

Conclusion

In the end, I hoped this shoe could have been a great option for those looking for a moderately stacked barefoot road running shoe. While it doesn’t satisfy this market segment, its weight, questions around durability, and lack of secureness mean it falls short of a true performance shoe.

That said, this is a great casual option that can also be worn as an occasional runner.

It’s ultimately comfortable and not “too minimal” that it’s uncomfortable for long walks and runs.

Keep up the good work, Freet; you’re kicking out some bangers!

Is it worth $110? If you need a wide, flexible shoe with a sock-like fit, then yes. However, consider other options if you need a more rugged or supportive shoe for varied terrains. Overall, the Skeeby is a cushioned minimal shoe that shines in comfort and fit but has a few limitations for performance-focused runners.