Laced SeeYa LS Vibram FiveFingers for Fall 2012

We got a glimpse of what must have been a Vibram FiveFingers SeeYa LS (laced!) prototype a bit over a month ago.  With nothing to go on but speculation, I guessed that these laced SeeYas were going to show up sometime in the Spring of 2013.

Well what do you know?  Vibram is actually planning on releasing the SeeYa LS in October of this year (2012)!!  Photos and more after the jump!

If you're up on the original ultralight SeeYa FiveFingers model because you picked up a pair — or because you've read both our men's and women's review of the FiveFingers SeeYa — you might know that there were some issues cited by our reviewers.  Namely, Tim noted a somewhat loose fit in the heel; Leah had some issues with rubbing and blisters where the strap attached to the upper (socks would seem to prevent this issue).  Anecdotally, I know Leah's not the only one to experience those kinds of sockless wear issues with the SeeYa.

Meanwhile, the SeeYa model is incredibly lightweight due to a minimal rubber and polyurethane sole (rubber at points of high contact and polyurethane on the arch).  They're extremely breathable and pretty comfortable as just knockaround or general fitness toe shoes.

So with the SeeYa LS, in theory, you're going to get a more customizable fit, and I'm optimistic these laced SeeYas will improve on the original model's shortcomings — of course, we'll just have to wait and see.

I'll reserve further comment for now and just note that these are slated for an October 1 release date (this is a little later than the other Fall 2012 FiveFingers models) and are expected to MSRP for $100.  (Oh and if you still want a pair of the original SeeYas, well, while they last you can find some here for 25% off — $75!)

What do you think about these?  Been on the fence about the SeeYa but interested in a laced model?  Below are the official photos as well as a press release from Vibram on their upcoming debut!

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments!

SeeYa LS FiveFingers Photos

Men's:

Women's:

Official Press Release below:

VIBRAM CREATES STYLISH STREETWEAR/CROSS TRAINER GAINING INSPIRATION FROM PREVIOUS ULTRALIGHT OFFERING

SeeYa LS Blends SeeYa’s Streamlined Performance Sole with Smart Upper for Casual Use and Cross Training

CONCORD, Mass., June 18, 2012 – Taking its cue from the city streets, Vibram FiveFingers is launching a new fashion conscious model ideal for casual or cross training use.  Based on the super lightweight SeeYa, a streamlined road runner designed for the seasoned minimalist runner, the Seeya LS borrows the streamlined styling and high performance sole of its predecessor, but features a smart new upper that answers the demand for more versatility.  The SeeYa LS will be available at retail on October 1, 2012.

"Although the SeeYa was initially designed for a very specific purpose, it became one of our most popular models.  Our customers were wearing it to make a casual style statement and also cross train at the gym," explained Michael Martin, Vice President of Sales, Vibram FiveFingers. "We saw an opportunity here and ran with it, totally redesigning the upper to create a fun, fashion conscious cross over model."

The new SeeYa LS combines traditional lacing, suede overlays and a non-stretch polyester mesh upper, reminiscent of a performance canvas for casual chic. The lacing and non-stretch fabric are dual purpose in their design, creating a snug and personalized fit.  Bold and muted color ways, highlighted by an interesting web print add to the playful street appeal.  At a mere 5-ounce average, this redesigned shoe is grounded by a seriously lightweight high performance sole designed to shave ounces wherever possible.

A TC-1 rubber provides superior grip on varied terrain and a 2mm EVA insole and Drilex sock liner offer added comfort.  Additionally, TPU in the arch area of the sole offers flexibility with reduced weight.  The result: an extremely comfortable, truly minimalist, high performance footwear alternative with panache. It is available in black/grey/ rose and peach/light grey for women.  In men’s it is offered in three color ways: grey/yellow/black, castle rock/navy/grey and black/grey/silver.  The SeeYa LS will debut at an m.s.r.p. of $100.

Vibram® is recognized worldwide as the leader in high performance soles and have set the standard since Vitale Bramani created mountaineering’s first rubber lugged sole in the late 1930’s. Vibram® soles have gone on to conquer Mt. Everest, K2 and a host of the world’s tallest peaks.  Today, the company works with over 1200 premium brands to co develop the most durable, highest performing outdoor, recreational, work and fashion footwear on the market.  In 2006, Vibram® introduced FiveFingers®, a revolutionary and patented glove-styled shoe that pioneered the minimalist footwear movement.

FiveFingers was introduced as a shoe that allows the foot to move naturally.  They allow the body to operate as if it was barefoot while protecting it with a Vibram rubber sole.  This sole is built with unmatched rubber compounds allowing it to have maximum flexibility as well as protect, even in its thin nature.  As a result the user can feel the earth beneath them unlike any footwear on earth.

The SeeYa sole platform features Vibram rubber in two large pieces separated by a polyurethane base that helps reduce weight and increase sole flexibility.