In a world where ballet flats are fused with sneakers, loafers seem to be winning over Dunks or Sambas, and football boots are worn as everyday shoes, there’s one trend I truly didn’t see coming: the Vibram V-Soul.
A five-toed shoe with Mary Jane elements recently appeared in the Lyst Index Q2 2025. Some people love it, others hate it. I’m somewhere in between.
Vibram V-Soul
The Vibram V-Soul has claimed fifth place in the Lyst Index for the second quarter of 2025 — a silhouette few expected to rank so high. The model’s rise on the list is thanks to a 110% increase in traffic on the platform, shortly after the PUMA Speedcat Ballet landed in third place in the first quarter.
A balletcore-driven market segment is on the rise. Hybrid silhouettes have seen explosive growth in recent months. Think of the New Balance 1906L, the adidas Taekwondo Mei Ballet, the adidas Megaride Mary Jane. And yes, the Vibram V-Soul actually fits right into that list.
It may not be the most elegant shoe — some might even call the design clunky — but there’s no denying that the V-Soul bridges the gap between comfort and style. The minimalist, barefoot-like sole has a gimmicky feel to it, and that’s exactly what seems to be resonating with people.
Lyst Index 2025
The V-Soul wasn’t the only unconventional design to appear in the Lyst Index Q2 2025 list. Also featured were The Row’s Dune slippers, Iro ballet flats, and Isabel Marant’s Bekett sneakers.
Miu Miu’s suede loafers also ranked high, with Miu Miu once again topping the list as the most popular brand this quarter.
Brands that saw a significant rise in popularity over the past quarter include Pucci, Rohe, and Jacques Marie Mage, thanks in part to celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, Brad Pitt, and Jeff Goldblum being spotted in their designs.
The report also highlighted trends such as minimalism, vintage revival, and statement minimalism. It is precisely that last term that perfectly describes the Vibram V-Soul.
What's Next?
A striking list, then, but at the same time not entirely unexpected. In a landscape where brands are gaining a broader playing field, especially in the sneaker world, with Nike being less dominant than a few years ago, it’s clear that designers are letting their creativity run free, and there’s room for silhouettes like the V-Soul.
Which silhouette will score high next quarter remains to be seen. However, the recently launched 3D-printed Havaianas in collaboration with Zellerfeld could very well have a chance, as could the Timberland Boat Shoe, which has already appeared in a collaboration with Jacquemus in recent months.
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
