Born Primitive Savage 1 Review: Streamlined Comfort Meets Versatile Performance
Sliding into a pair of Born Primitive Savage 1’s reveals an immediate impression of spaciousness in the toe box and a sleek, minimalist design. This iteration evokes the nostalgia of the Nano 2's cult-classic appeal while drawing inspiration from features of New Balance's Minimus Prevail. Unlike the recent trend of bulky and rigid training shoes, the Savage 1 stands out for its streamlined/minimalist construction. Engineered with dual-density foam (plush and flexible upfront, sturdy and supportive at the heel), this shoe excels in versatility: ideal for both running and weightlifting. Combining this with its comfortable fit, Born Primitive crushed the first iteration of the Savage 1.
Key Features
- Wide and comfortable toe box for natural toe splay for better balance and comfort
- Dual density molded footbed. The density at the heel has less flex for heavy lifting
- stability and the softer area at the forefoot is for cushioning while running and jumping.
- 4mm drop with a low to ground feel
- Rubber outsole that features a vertical tread for lateral traction and a horizontal tread for linear traction
Construction
- Lightweight knit upper & mesh tongue resulting in improved breathability
- TPU toe overlay resulting in Improved lateral stability
- TPU heel stabilizer resulting in Improved lateral stability
Style and Aesthetics
- Minimalist design and look makes the Savage 1 appealing in and outside of the gym.
Sizing and Fit
- Should size and fit like your Nike Metcons and Reebok Nanos.
Favorite Feature
The standout feature of the Savage 1 for me is its meticulously designed midsole and sole. Crafting a shoe that excels both in running and lifting is no easy feat; often, one aspect is sacrificed for the other. However, thanks to the dual-density foam and strategically placed flex grooves, this shoe delivers outstanding performance across all areas within the gym.
Final Verdict
We were super impressed with the Born Primitive Savage 1. The spacious toe box,
minimalist design, and versatile construction with dual-density foam cater to both short distance running and weightlifting needs. The shoe's minimalist construction, including a lightweight knit upper and TPU overlays for stability, adds to its appeal. Overall, its balance of comfort, performance, and style, make it a solid choice for gym-goers seeking a versatile and well-designed training shoe.
