# Skin-Like Sneakers The Evoskin Silicone Shoe by Inov-8 is Akin to Running Barefoot By Peter Vallas | Published 2011-05-28 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inov-8 References: [gearjunkie](http://gearjunkie.com/inov-8-evoskin-barefoot-shoe) & [inov-8](http://www.inov-8.com/road/index.html) The Evoskin Silicone Shoe by Inov-8 may just be the strangest pair of runners you've ever seen. These unique shoes are designed for runners who want to have a more natural experience when running. The Evoskin by Inov-8 is the closest thing to [running barefoot](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobarefoot-motus-strength-ii). The silicone shoe features [individual toe slots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vibram-fivefingers-kso-evo-year-of-the-snake) so you can even wiggle your toes around as you run. Since the shoes features little to no padding it is ideal for running in [soft terrain](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobarefoot-tracker-textile-at-ii): trails, grass, sand, etc. It may make your feet pretty sore if you tried it on pavement. When it comes to looks wise the Evoskin by Inov-8 may turn heads, but it seems as if those who are going to buy a pair will use it strictly for training purposes. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.1/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 91% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Barefoot Running:** The trend of running shoes that mimic the experience of running barefoot. - **Minimalist Footwear:** The trend of shoes with minimal padding and support for a more natural running experience. - **Toe-slot Shoes:** The trend of shoes with individual toe slots for added flexibility and mobility during running. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Athletic Footwear:** The industry that manufactures and sells footwear specifically designed for athletic activities. - **Fitness Training:** The industry focused on providing training programs, equipment, and services for physical fitness and conditioning. - **Outdoor Recreation:** The industry that offers products and services for outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and camping. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Slim-Fitting Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimus-trail.md) - [Second-Skin Luxury Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zero-shoe.md) - [Toe-Shaped Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vibram-fivefingers-1.md) - [Supportive Trail Running Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stinson-evo.md) - [Split-Toe Barefoot Sandals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobiome-tabi-gen-01-sandal.md) - [Kevlar-Constructed Trail Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naglev-veloce.md) - [Bigfoot-Inspired Bizarre Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ninlo.md) - [Superior Ultramarathon Sneaker Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adidas-adizero-prime-x-evo.md) - [Flexible Barefoot Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flexible-barefoot-footwear.md)