The Lono Flow is a breathable, barefoot-style gym shoe from a Hong Kong-based brand that delivers solid performance and comfort—at a price that makes it feel like a steal. Just beware: it runs narrow.

The Lono Flow barefoot shoes have been showing up more and more in Hong Kong. And with their showroom basically down the block from me, it was only a matter of time before I gave them a shot.

Lets see how they turned out.

At A Glance

The Lono Flow is a lightweight barefoot-style sneaker that I've mainly been using it for dog walking everyday, quick errands and for the occasional gym session.

It’s breathable, flexible, and noticeably more affordable than most barefoot shoes out there.

Price: ~HKD 761 (~USD $97)
Best For: Gym sessions, walks, errands
Not Great For: Wide feet, dressing up
Pros: Excellent value, breathable upper, decent grip
Cons: Runs narrow, white version gets dirty fast

Lono flow Single shoe — Lets see how this barefoot shoe holds up

Price: A Huge Up Front Win

I picked up mine for 611 HKD (approx 78 USD), even though full retail is 98 USD its a big win.

They are a lot more affordable than other barefoot gym shoes like the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit - approx. 160 USD (review coming soon).

Lono seem to have exploded (at least here in Hong Kong), I almost see a pair on the street daily now. Dare I say almost as much as I see Vivobarefoot’s here.

More brands need to pay attention: when barefoot shoes become affordable, people will buy.

Fit & Comfort: On the narrow side

Here’s where things get tight.

My size EU 46 in the Lono Flow is definitely on the smaller and narrower side. If you’re between sizes or have a wider forefoot, go up a size. Even with sizing up, I’m not sure this would solve the problem. For me, the narrow squeeze was very noticeable.

It did mean that I would not choose this shoe if I had to wear it for multiple hours at a time.

But a 5-minute quick trip to the shops? Perfect.

Lono FLow top down view — Good lock down but is on the narrower side

The Upper: Lono's Best Feature

The upper knit material is a standout feature.

It’s very breathable, you can literally see the holes for airflow. It fits snugly and has a nice stretch to it that gives a secure lockdown. The collar also has a little bit of padding which is a nice touch

The material doesn’t feel the most premium, but that’s expected based on the price.

Yes, the white gets dirty fast, but it also cleans up well after a wash.

After six months of wear, the upper still looks and performs solidly. In my opinion, better than how some Vivobarefoot shoes have held up over the same time period.

Lono Flow upper — The upper, breathable but definitely gets dirty!

Outsole & Grip: Solid All Round

Lono advertises a 4mm outsole with 2mm lugs.

The grip has been solid, even in wet conditions or on hills. The outsole lugs are smaller compared to other shoes, so not sure how these would hold up for hiking, but I never felt unstable or at risk of slipping when using them in the city or at the gym.

Lono Flow outsole — Very good durability on the outsole

Style: Debatable...

The look of this shoe has grown on me. Initially, I didn't quite like it, but considering the price it was worth a try.

At first I thought the lacing system looked strange, but now I don't mind it at all.

In my view, not quite as good looking as some of the Vivobarefoot gym alternatives—but again, for the price difference, this is great.

Over the last 6 months, I really don’t mind the look of the white version. Not so sure about the other colours, although I've had friends who really like the grey and black versions.

It’s definitely more of a sporty and activewear look. Not something you’d wear out to dinner or pair with jeans—especially with how dirty the upper can get.

Take a look at these shots of it in different environments to decide for yourself.

Final Verdict

For under $100 USD, the Lono Flow is doing a lot right. It’s breathable, versatile, and priced way below most of its barefoot competition.

If you’re in Asia, especially somewhere hot and humid like Hong Kong, this shoe is a great option for gym-goers or anyone who wants barefoot feel without spending Vivobarefoot money.

Just be warned about the sizing. Size up if you're in doubt.

Lono's showing that barefoot shoes can go mainstream if brands actually price them like people want to buy them. Now we just need more brands to follow.

Check out our review of the Vivobarefoot Geo Racer. A comparable shoe that I've used for many of the same use cases.

Lono Flow Review: A Gym Shoe That’s Punching Above Its Price Tag