Shoes: Savants

[Annihilation]

Hey guys for Christmas I'm hoping to get a pair of Savants for parkour. My parents will definentley want me to try on a pair in person, so What store will I be able to find these at???

Thanks in Advanced

[feeble]

are savants the ones like barefoot but not?

[Annihilation]

There 5.10 shoes i don't really know how to describe beyond that

[Annihilation]

Anyone know im kinda desperate = D Jason ?????:naughty:

[Austin]

You don't need to try them. They fit very standardly and are definitely top of the line when it comes to PK. The only complaint I have about them is that the toes tend to be a little too flexible for my liking: I've sprained my big toe on wallruns with them twice. I now make sure to tape that toe, and I use the regular insoles plus a set of nice cushy ones on top. They are by far the most sticky shoe I've ever used and they will definitely contribute to your improvement. If your parents won't buy them for you then ask for an american express gift card or something and then use it on the shoes?

[SafeNSure]

are savants the ones like barefoot but not?

nope... those are these ones: http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/products/products_sprint.cfm

Those could be a fun ALTERNATIVE to the Savants... light duty, for buildering and training, I guess, more than jamming...

IDEA: maybe somebody of the SFParkour "Expert Team" should test for everybody else.
How about 8 of us pitch in $5 and the 'selected' one pitches in $40 and get to keep the tested shoes?

Does it sound like a deal? :wink:

[Annihilation]

great idea/advice thanks man

[Austin]

haha, When did we get an expert team? =)

[SafeNSure]

haha... I guess combining double kongs and wall flips on concrete with the ability of writing a decent review would make anybody an "expert" :D

[NoSole]

Haha! Honestly, we're all in this for the same goal. Some may be more obsessive than others, but I think we're all on the same team. I wouldn't writing up a review on whatever footware we as a community decide to test, but pratically speaking I don't really have much interest in keeping them after that. That said, I still think it's a great idea, so I'll see if I can cook up a little scheme that may be a little more reasonable (financially speaking) so that nobody feels like they are ponying up all the dough for someone else to get a free/cheap pair of shoes, when all they are getting in return is a review. Basically, I just want to be fair to everyone, and if I'm smart about it I'll figure out a way so people have spend little or no money. Any suggestions are welcome.

[NoSole]

You don't need to try them. They fit very standardly and are definitely top of the line when it comes to PK. The only complaint I have about them is that the toes tend to be a little too flexible for my liking: I've sprained my big toe on wallruns with them twice. I now make sure to tape that toe, and I use the regular insoles plus a set of nice cushy ones on top. They are by far the most sticky shoe I've ever used and they will definitely contribute to your improvement. If your parents won't buy them for you then ask for an american express gift card or something and then use it on the shoes?


I'll write more later, since I have to get out of here soon, but to touch on what Austin said, you can be confident that they will fit consistent with your other shoe sizes. I brought Austin a pair of 5.10s that he had never tried on before, and much like myself, st0ne, PD, and others have experienced, the shoe fit perfectly right off the bat. Look at it this way: worst case scenario all you have to do is pay a little more for shipping. Or if you're unsure about the size, order two pairs in dift sizes and then just sell the other pair to someone up here who wants 'em. I think we all know that won't be too difficult.

As for the Savants, I would say get the Freerunners. The Savants are great and I love mine, but they were originally meant to be trail runners/approach shoes, whereas the Freerunners are purpose built for PK. The same way a rock climbing shoe is meant for rock climbing, the Freerunners are meant for PK. I'll write up a full review when I get my feet in them.

[Austin]

I can't wait to see these Freerunners. I love my Marvels though. I got to use them a bit this weekend and the grip/tac that they have is amazing. The cushioning is great also.

[kingtheking]

annihalation...i also want savant 5.10 for christmas but whenever i look i only find the women's kind...anyone wanna post a link...preferably soon =)

[kingtheking]

...please

[Ranar]

hey what happened to that group buy that was going to go down?

But I guess thats not going to happen. So when these Freerunners going to come out?

[slipstream]

Well, I'm no expert...but I went and got a pair of the FiveFingers. Tried 'em out at UC Berkeley. I'll post a full review on my log/the shoe review thread, but let me just say: these things are f*cking sweet.

[SafeNSure]

Well, I'm no expert...but I went and got a pair of the FiveFingers. Tried 'em out at UC Berkeley. I'll post a full review on my log/the shoe review thread, but let me just say: these things are f*cking sweet.

YOU ARE THE MAN! :bowdown:
I love them just the way they look... would wear them at home if I'd own them...

Some things are just cool even if not THAT practical (Ferraris, Hummers...) :cool:

But let us know if they provide any shock absorption on cement at all :ohnoes:
...or if they slip away or anything... :nono:

[NoSole]

Yeah, I'll try to bring the group buy back when the 5.10s are available. I keep nagging the shit out of Jason as to when they'll be here, but I can't get a straight answer. So stay tuned and I'll fill all you's guys in later.

[SomeoneE1se]

Haha! Honestly, we're all in this for the same goal. Some may be more obsessive than others, but I think we're all on the same team. I wouldn't writing up a review on whatever footware we as a community decide to test, but pratically speaking I don't really have much interest in keeping them after that. That said, I still think it's a great idea, so I'll see if I can cook up a little scheme that may be a little more reasonable (financially speaking) so that nobody feels like they are ponying up all the dough for someone else to get a free/cheap pair of shoes, when all they are getting in return is a review. Basically, I just want to be fair to everyone, and if I'm smart about it I'll figure out a way so people have spend little or no money. Any suggestions are welcome.

on this note contact the maker from a sfparkour.com email address put a review/link on the front page and they'll send you a pair to review for free (maybe) getting a non-payed respected community member to endorse your product is gold as far as PR goes

[SafeNSure]

on this note contact the maker from a sfparkour.com email address put a review/link on the front page and they'll send you a pair to review for free (maybe) getting a non-payed respected community member to endorse your product is gold as far as PR goes

...too late!
Slipstream couldn't restrain himself... :laugh:
http://www.sfparkour.com/forum/showthread.php?t=22&page=5

[Annihilation]

well thanks for the massive response, right now my dads trying to buy them but we can only find them in womens, maybe ill wait for the freerunners to come out, but im dyuing for a good shoe right now

[Austin]

5.10 Marvel is what I'm training in. They're solid. I've only worn the Savants for a few minutes, but I like the toe stability a little more in the Marvels. Cushioning seems to be better too, although you sacrifice a tiny weight increase for it. They're very stable though, and have my whole-hearted recommendation.

[Annihilation]

is there any difference in the grip, for if they're almost indentical and better in some fields i might opt for the marvels

[Austin]

Grip should be perfectly equal. I feel like the only real difference performance wise is a very slight increase in weight, and a little more thickness in the heel and toe. Ask Nosole though. It was his Savants that I tried, and only for about 15 minutes. But that session convinced me that I had to get some 5.10's.

[Todrick]

sorry all i've been neglectful

OK here's the deal.

1. You won't find savants around... the world wide demand was intense and we are now awaiting the new 2008 Savant

2. the redesigned savants will be showing up in the next couple months... better colors, better lacing system... an all around better shoe.

3. Marvels(or it's close cousin, Genius which we make a women's version of) are the kings of the hill for PK... for now...

4. The Freerunner will be here... soon... And I am pretty sure that it has somehting that will make everyone VERY happy

5. The Freerunner has an all new Rubber formula... Stealth Phantom... I'll let you guys speculate on what exact properties makes it special...
Yes, the name is a clue.
No, there is not just one thing that makes it different.

have fun!

[SomeoneE1se]

sorry all i've been neglectful

OK here's the deal.

1. You won't find savants around... the world wide demand was intense and we are now awaiting the new 2008 Savant

2. the redesigned savants will be showing up in the next couple months... better colors, better lacing system... an all around better shoe.

3. Marvels(or it's close cousin, Genius which we make a women's version of) are the kings of the hill for PK... for now...

4. The Freerunner will be here... soon... And I am pretty sure that it has somehting that will make everyone VERY happy

5. The Freerunner has an all new Rubber formula... Stealth Phantom... I'll let you guys speculate on what exact properties makes it special...
Yes, the name is a clue.
No, there is not just one thing that makes it different.

have fun!

pics or it didn't happen

but really I'm looking at new shoes and if the freerunners looks any good I shall wait

[NoSole]

If it's any indication, I love my Savants more than any other shoes, but I'm dying to get my feet into the Freerunners.

[Ranar]

Stealth Phantom... I'll let you guys speculate on what exact properties makes it special...


OH I got it it makes you weightless like a phantom so you can pull of anything!!!! YESS can I get a free pair for discovering your secret? :D

really for my guess though I will consult the dictionary
phan-tom
-noun
=ghost (BLAH BLAH BLAH)
=a person or thing of merely illusory power, status, efficacy, etc. ( I think this holds it right here)
=an illustration, part of which is given a transparent effect so as to permit representation of details otherwise hidden from view, as the inner workings of a mechanical device. (Allows you to "really see" the world through PK..maybe?)

[Annihilation]

I purchased the Marvel today and am dying to get my feet into them. As much as i would love to wiat for the freerunners, I can't go another month in my current shoes. Thx jason really lookin forward to see that shoe

[SomeoneE1se]

If I guess the reason for the name correctly can I get a free pair?

[Todrick]

If I guess the reason for the name correctly can I get a free pair?

No.

sorry....

Nicely played though.

[Todrick]

phan-tom
-noun
=an illustration, part of which is given a transparent effect so as to permit representation of details otherwise hidden from view.

Nice work... really the 3rd definition is probably the most accurate.
there are two things that make Phantom different from previous Stealth Rubber... those familiar with Stealth for PK have a definite advantage here...

Think Stealth Rubber... C4 is the benchmark Climbing rubber, S1 the ideal trail running rubber... now think how to make it perfect for PK... No joke, in my little bit of playing around with it I am convinced that this is the most perfect PK rubber ever developed...

[Austin]

I'm thinking something special so that when you do cat leaps you can keep traction and not slide down the wall?
No idea really... But I'm eagerly anticipating them

[NoSole]

I'm thinking something special so that when you do cat leaps you can keep traction and not slide down the wall?
No idea really... But I'm eagerly anticipating them


Really...? That's your guess? You already get that with normal Stealth.

C'mon guys, this isn't rocket science. I've even mentioned this so called "secret" attribute in other posts when I first started talking about the Freerunner.

Huge hint: Phantom = not visible

[Todrick]

Really...? That's your guess? You already get that with normal Stealth.

C'mon guys, this isn't rocket science. I've even mentioned this so called "secret" attribute in other posts when I first started talking about the Freerunner.

Huge hint: Phantom = not visible

that wasn't a hint... that was just outright saying it is Non-Marking ;)

But, my young Padawan...
you may think you know... But that is just one of it's amazing improvements... care to take a guess at #2?

[NoSole]

Is it something you've already told me? Or are you keeping things from me again? (Damn it Jason, how can we cultivate a beautiful relationship based on trust if there are so many secrets?!)

[Todrick]

Is it something you've already told me? Or are you keeping things from me again? (Damn it Jason, how can we cultivate a beautiful relationship based on trust if there are so many secrets?!)


you actually don't know about this.... but neither did I until i held a piece in my hand and got to play around with it here in the office for a few minutes

[Austin]

Really...? That's your guess? You already get that with normal Stealth.

C'mon guys, this isn't rocket science. I've even mentioned this so called "secret" attribute in other posts when I first started talking about the Freerunner.

Huge hint: Phantom = not visible

I was thinking of the only instance in which my shoes ever slide, and that was it. On metal or polished marble, not on cement...
1. non-marking and I'm thinking maybe #2 is clear/see through rubber? So it looks like you're just running on air. It'd be pretty tight.

[Ranar]

that wasn't a hint... that was just outright saying it is Non-Marking ;)


yeah thats exactly what I thought when I read your post No Sole. Way to release company secretes JEEEZZZZ :nono:

Going off your C4 and S1 comment. Making it as sticky AND bendy as climbing rubber yet as shock absorbent and long lasting as S1?

Just a side question. Are you guys marketing these things overseas, like Europe? Just thinking since PK is much bigger there you could make some BANK doing that, cause all they have over their is Addias and Nikes. They would go ape shit over your guys product.

[NoSole]

Yeah, the market is too strong over there to not addess it. Trust me, they are very aware of it. I've spoken with several people form 3run (not just the main team) that are hellbent on getting the Freerunners or Savants when they become available.

[Todrick]

I was thinking of the only instance in which my shoes ever slide, and that was it. On metal or polished marble, not on cement...


LOL... you actually did get it right.

1. Non-Marking

2. It sticks to smooth surfaces.... metal, paint, etc.

[Ranar]

well since the secrete is out is it still going to be black?

[Austin]

LOL... you actually did get it right.

*sticks tongue out at Brian*
Too bad we weren't doing the "guess it and you get a free pair". =[

[Annihilation]

I just got my Marvels today and used them,qutie frankly i was speechless, they were so perfect so light so grippy so impact absorbing so hard and soft int he right places, i'm still speechless and i give my full hearted recomendation to anybody

[Austin]

I like the little tacky section on the top sides of the toe area. I have no idea why you'd need that there, but it looks and feels cool.
The marvel's are so great though. I really like how stable they are. No risk of rolling and ankle or anything

[TatooedRunes]

so the marvels are good for PKing, huh? What about the Guides? I've noticed NoSole wearing them sometimes in his videos, and it seems like they're used for certain applications, but is there stuff one should not try to do in them? Cetain maneuvers that they're better for?

I'll probably wind up getting a pair of Marvels since they seem to be the most balanced, but I kinda like the look of the Guides and was wondering what their virtues were.

My running shoes now are Nike Reax in a 10.5... should I order my 5.10 shoes in the same size?

Also, this question is specifically for Jason: if I order a pair of shoes now because I can't wait, they will of course be equipped with the standard Stealth variant specific to the shoe, but will Stealth Phantom resole kits be available next year for existing models (like an upgrade kit)?

PS: I'd love to have my Oakley boots resoled with Stealth, but that would be impossible thanks to the construction of the boot. Are there any tactical boot manufacturers that have shown an interest in putting out Stealth Rubber variants or resoling (like so many have done with Vibram)?

[kingtheking]

i am almost 100 % sure this is gonna make me sound like a total idiot...is there any way to pre order the freerunners?...i rilly wanna get a pair quickly...i hate skate shoes

[NoSole]

so the marvels are good for PKing, huh? What about the Guides? I've noticed NoSole wearing them sometimes in his videos, and it seems like they're used for certain applications, but is there stuff one should not try to do in them? Cetain maneuvers that they're better for?

I'll probably wind up getting a pair of Marvels since they seem to be the most balanced, but I kinda like the look of the Guides and was wondering what their virtues were.

My running shoes now are Nike Reax in a 10.5... should I order my 5.10 shoes in the same size?


The Guides are AWESOME! But they have almost no padding. If you will be doing any sort of drop, I reccommend against getting these. The rubber is super dooper sticky for going up, but they are not well equipped for coming down. Conversely, (and I'm considering getting a pair for exactly this point) they will help you learn proper landing technique much better becuase the feeling is akin to being barefoot. Basically, like a less agressive climbing shoe. Also coming out next year, which I am DEFINITELY getting a pair of, are the Daescent. They are very very similar to the Guide, but (in my opinion) have a much cooler looking design. Same grip, same minimal padding, sweet new design.

Jason, can we get some pics of the new Savant, Freerunner, and Daescent to spur some interest?

As far as fit, I've mentioned this before, but I don't mind saying it again. Five Tens, since they are historically climbing shoe based, have a tendency to fit about a half size smaller so your feet don't have any room to "swim" around when laced up. If you always find yourself getting 10.5s in normal shoes, get 10.5s in these as well. The tighter fit will help a ton with control!

[Austin]

The only thing I don't like about the tighter fit though, it that on landings where I have alot of forward momentum, the tips of my toes jam into the front of the shoe a tiny bit. So I have to make sure to wear thick toed socks.

[NoSole]

Yup, I feel ya on that one. I don't like to wear them for really long periods of time... as in, all day.

[FreeMind]

Im really in need of a new shoe for parkour! I'm thinkin about getting the marvels but if the new freerunners are gonna come out sooner then 2-3 months then I'll wait for it. When do u guys think it'll come out around?

[Todrick]

well since the secrete is out is it still going to be black?

Yup.

i am almost 100 % sure this is gonna make me sound like a total idiot...is there any way to pre order the freerunners?...i rilly wanna get a pair quickly...i hate skate shoes

call customer service
909-798-4222



Also, this question is specifically for Jason: if I order a pair of shoes now because I can't wait, they will of course be equipped with the standard Stealth variant specific to the shoe, but will Stealth Phantom resole kits be available next year for existing models (like an upgrade kit)?


most likely, but it's all about demand... if there is a clear need to produce them, we will.

the Daescent. They are very very similar to the Guide, but (in my opinion) have a much cooler looking design. Same grip, same minimal padding, sweet new design.



wow... wait, no...

The Daescent is almost the anti-guide.

Modern looks
BETTER Grip
Less Padding

The Guide is a prototypical 'Approach' shoe, the Daescent was designed as a descent shoe... it is a nearly completely unconstructed shoe that will provide very little support... it would likely work very well for PK, as it will force you to use correct technique because it is so light and flexible, however There is no way i am going to suggest it for PK because of its extremely thin padding and lack of ankle support... this would so NOT be a shoe for a novice that likes big drops cause they are 'cool'.

not suggesting your that person NoSole... but I want to be clear that this is not a shoe to be taking drops you wouldn't take barefoot in... really the Daescent would probably be best thought of as bare feet... + Stealth Rubber. :)

Im really in need of a new shoe for parkour! I'm thinkin about getting the marvels but if the new freerunners are gonna come out sooner then 2-3 months then I'll wait for it. When do u guys think it'll come out around?

if that's the deciding factor for you...

Wait.

i can't give a specific date yet, but it's well within that time frame... well within.

I will be able to give a specific date about a month before release... they will go up on the website at that time as well.

[aeramor]

Doh. 2-3 months :( I was hoping you were going to say avail tmw with free shipping to get there in time for xmas!

[FreeMind]

I just called the customer service of Fiveten and they told me that the freerunners are coming out mid-february!

[NoSole]

The Guide is a prototypical 'Approach' shoe, the Daescent was designed as a descent shoe... it is a nearly completely unconstructed shoe that will provide very little support... it would likely work very well for PK, as it will force you to use correct technique because it is so light and flexible, however There is no way i am going to suggest it for PK because of its extremely thin padding and lack of ankle support... this would so NOT be a shoe for a novice that likes big drops cause they are 'cool'.

not suggesting your that person NoSole... but I want to be clear that this is not a shoe to be taking drops you wouldn't take barefoot in... really the Daescent would probably be best thought of as bare feet... + Stealth Rubber. :)


Word. I totally agree. I plan on moving amost entirely away from big drops next year unless completely necessary. Also, something I'm going to really start stressing A LOT will be barefoot training and proper landing technique. I've said this before, but I'm really going to focus heavily on this since I feel like most of my time training has relied on the padding in my shoes to absorb the blow. For this same reason, I can only reccommend that you (everyone) not look to my previous videos for tips on landing. New training will be heavily based on barefoot grass landings... and LOTS of them. Later, once I feel like I've figured out the big do's and don'ts, I'll do a descriptive write-up.

[Austin]

I just called the customer service of Fiveten and they told me that the freerunners are coming out mid-february!

Sweetness! My birthday is the 28th! Perfect gift idea!!! Now they just need to officially announce it on the site so that I can start spamming my parents and friends about it. haha

[Ranar]

Word. I totally agree. I plan on moving amost entirely away from big drops next year unless completely necessary. Also, something I'm going to really start stressing A LOT will be barefoot training and proper landing technique. I've said this before, but I'm really going to focus heavily on this since I feel like most of my time training has relied on the padding in my shoes to absorb the blow. For this same reason, I can only reccommend that you (everyone) not look to my previous videos for tips on landing. New training will be heavily based on barefoot grass landings... and LOTS of them. Later, once I feel like I've figured out the big do's and don'ts, I'll do a descriptive write-up.


oh god now everyone is going to be doing barefoot stuff now.:rolleyes: I personally like shoes and will stay with them.

[aeramor]

I did some barefoot stuff about a month ago only really for a day or two but long enough to realize 2 things. One being that balance is SO much easier barefoot. And that any drop onto concrete past 4-5 feet is going to hurt.. Or maybe I'm just not very good :(

[SomeoneE1se]

if you're not used to dropping onto bear feet it hurts, but once you get used to it it's not so bad

[Adhesive]

Due to barefoot training, I can take an open flame over parts of my feet and not feel a thing. Toughen yourself up to be prepared for anything.

[Ranar]

wow talk about thread jacking I think this thread has gone through like 3 different topics

[Austin]

Due to barefoot training, I can take an open flame over parts of my feet and not feel a thing. Toughen yourself up to be prepared for anything.

Because you never know when you could have an accident while roasting marshmallows!

[NoSole]

Due to barefoot training, I can eat glass and drink snake venom. I am also now a lisenced paralegal and can juggle chainsaws. I am now prepared for anything.

[Adhesive]

That's whats up, Brian.

[ANDREY]

Due to barefoot training, I can eat glass and drink snake venom. I am also now a lisenced paralegal and can juggle chainsaws. I am now prepared for anything.

Hahahaha, that's funny!!!!!! lol :laugh: :laugh:

[Austin]

I think you just never learned how to tie your shoes?
=D