Velites Hybrid 1.0
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Looking for a minimalist shoe that will hold up to full WODs without breaking down on rope climbs or wall walks? The Velites Hybrid 1.0 could be the answer.
I've been testing them for weeks in real CrossFit workouts: deadlifts, rowing, ropes, sprints... In this review you'll see how they perform under pressure.
If you have wide feet, are tired of narrow toe boxes or want to get closer to barefoot without losing protection, I explain the best, the worst and if they justify the 130 € discount.
What is Hybrid 1.0
The Velites Hybrid 1.0 are shoes designed in Spain for CrossFit and Functional Fitness. They combine the freedom of minimalist footwear with the protection required for functional training.
Who are they for?
✅ Persons with. medium or wide feet that are looking for space in the toe.
✅ Athletes who want to take care of the. foot health without sacrificing performance.
✅ Users who want to. transition to barefoot without destroying your shoes in rope climbs.
Main advantages
|
Feature |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Drop |
3 mm: promotes a natural footprint |
|
Wide toe cap |
Wide Toe Box: real space for the toes |
|
Weight EU 44 |
371 g: light for hybrids |
|
Rope-Tech sole |
Grip and durability on ropes and rough surfaces |
|
TPU reinforced heel |
Stability in lifting |
|
TPE + viscoelastic insole |
Good comfort, although it may feel soft when lifting |
|
Upper 100% recycled |
Breathable recycled polyester netting |
|
Colors |
In the first drop they released 6 colors, but many more are now available. |
What could be improved?
- There are no half sizes: if you are between two and they are wide. Even so, it is always recommended to order the upper.
- Viscoelastic insole: provides comfort, but can feel "soft" if you lift too heavy. You can change it for a stiffer one BUT! For those more committed to barefoot it can be removed.
How do they feel when training?
1. Comfort from the first use
There is no adaptation period. I felt no pressure points or blisters after a complete session with all types of exercises that we can find in a WOD: squats, sprint, rowing, kettlebell swing...
2. Good control in lifting
The reinforced heel gives a sense of security. In heavy squats (up to 90 % of RM) they were stable.
3. Reliable grip
The full sole with V-Grip pattern feels firm in box jump overs, burpees and rope climbs.
Are they barefoot?
Yes and no. The Hybrid 1.0 are not a pure barefoot shoebut they do offer:
- Low drop
- Flat template
- Wide toe cap
- More protective sole
If you want the benefits of minimalism without sacrificing durability in the box, these are a realistic middle ground option.
In my opinion, the fully barefoot shoes are not designed specifically for CrossFit, so they don't have enough protection against some exercises that are very abrasive for the shoe.
Quick comparison of CrossFit shoes
| Feature | Velites Hybrid 1.0 | Nike Metcon 10 | Reebok Nano X5 | Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 |
|---|
| Drop / profile | 3 mm | 4 mm; includes Hyperlift plate | 7 mm | 0 mm (barefoot) |
| Toe cap / toe space | Wide (Wide Toe Box) | Narrow | Media | Very wide (real barefoot) |
| Performance in rope climbs | Resistant and adherent Rope-Tech sole | Lateral reinforcement and optimized sticky rubber | Good lateral reinforcement, good wear | Not recommended for rope |
| Barefoot feeling | Intermediate | Low → focused on stability | Slight | High → full connection to the ground |
| Weight (EU 44 approx.) | 371 g | 331 g | 340 g | Less than 300 g |
| Outstanding technology | Low drop + wide toe cap and protected sole | ReactX Foam + Hyperlift plate | DualDensity EVA + lighter upper | Pure minimalism, no cushioning |
| Fit / sizing | Large size (choose smaller if in doubt) | Tighter fit than Metcon 9 | Wider and more comfortable than previous versions | Natural fit to the foot |
| Price approx. | 130 (with coupon) | ~140 € | ~140 € | ~120 € |
Sizing: how to choose your size
- Measure your foot from heel to longest toe.
- Add 0.5 cm +- 1.5 cm for safety space.
- If you are between sizes, you should know that it is rather large.
Sustainability
♻️ Manufactured with a 90% of recycled materials
🌱 Upper: recycled polyester
🌱 Outsole: recycled and natural rubber
🌱 Midsole: sugar cane EVA
Price and discount code
💸 Regular price: 144,99 €
🎁 Discount code: 130 applying the ANABELPUMP quota
*Apply the code ANABELPUMP on your purchases and enjoy an EXTRA discount.
Final opinion
The Hybrid feels like a minimalist shoe thanks to the wide toe box and minimal drop, but with the added bonus of being a shoe designed specifically for CrossFit.
This means that you have the benefits of a shoe that is healthy for your feet while you don't have to worry about destroying the shoe when doing wall exercises, or rope workouts... as you do when training in any other minimalist shoe.
The sole is not as thin and flexible as that of a minimalist 100% shoe.
The name Hybrid is the best definition for this model because it you'll have the best of both worlds: minimalism/barefoot and CrossFit..
✔️ Good choice if you come from traditional footwear and want to take care of your feet.
✔️ Even better if you've tried barefoot and are looking for something more durable for tough WODs.
✔️ Not recommended if you are looking for the ultralight, direct ground feel of a Vivobarefoot.
FAQ
Are the VELITES HYBRID worth the 130 €?
If you are looking for a durable, comfortable shoe with real benefits for your feet, yes. In addition, they are less expensive than other reference options on the market.
Are the VELITES Hybrid better than the Metcon or Nano?
It depends. Hybrid 1.0s are healthier for your feet. But if you do competitive powerlifting or are looking for high cushioning, you may prefer others.
How do you carve Velites Hybrid?
Size large. Measure your foot length and add the safety space, and check your size on the chart.
Are VELITES Hybrids suitable for running?
Yes, for short distances or sprints (like most CrossFit shoes). Not recommended for running more than 5K frequently.
