When it comes to tackling trails, scrambling over rocky paths, or just enjoying a solid all-around adventure shoe, Lems has some heavy hitters in the lineup: the fan-favorite Trailhead, as well as the all-new Trail Blazer, which will be replacing the original Primal Pursuit. Each of these shoes brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the zero-drop comfort of the Trail Blazer, the tried-and-true versatility of the Trailhead, or the rugged outsole of the Primal Pursuit. But how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s break it down so you can find the perfect fit for your next adventure.

The Trailhead: A Fan Favorite for a Reason

 

The Trailhead has earned its place as one of Lems’ best sellers, and for good reason. Designed for those who want a shoe that performs just as well on dirt trails as it does on city streets, this all-terrain sneaker is the ultimate go-between for outdoor lovers who don’t want to commit to a full-on hiking boot. With a snug fit and a bit of extra cushioning, the Trailhead keeps your feet supported on long treks while still feeling light and responsive.

One of the biggest appeals of the Trailhead is its low-profile, retro-inspired look. Unlike bulky trail runners, it blends effortlessly into everyday wear, meaning you don’t have to swap shoes when heading from the trail to a coffee shop. Its slight drop (4mm) gives it a natural feel without going fully flat, making it a solid choice for those who like a balance between support and minimalist movement. While it doesn’t have the extra-wide fit of some of Lems’ other designs, it still offers enough toe room for a comfortable stride.

The Primal Pursuit: Rugged Grip Meets Natural Comfort

Although being discontinued, it is worth discussing the Primal Pursuits features as many of them were transferred over to the new Trail Blazer design. For those who have worn the Primal Pursuit will find the Trail Blazer to fit and perform similarly.

If you love the idea of a more natural feel but still want something that can handle rougher terrain, the Primal Pursuit fit the bill. It delivers a grippy, all-weather tread designed for stability on rocky, muddy, or uneven surfaces. Unlike the Trailhead, the Primal Pursuit embraces a wider toe box, allowing for full toe splay and greater comfort on long hikes or trail runs.

What really sets the Primal Pursuit apart is how it combines a rugged design with a natural feel. It has a zero-drop platform, meaning your heel and forefoot sit level, promoting better posture and a more barefoot-like walking experience. While the Trailhead is great for mixed environments, the Primal Pursuit leans more toward those who prioritize grip, comfort, and foot freedom over a snug, structured fit.

The Trail Blazer: The Best of Both Worlds

Enter the Trail Blazer—Lems’ newest addition that takes the best elements of both the Trailhead and Primal Pursuit and blends them into one powerhouse of a shoe. Built on the Primal Pursuit outsole, it offers the same rugged traction for unpredictable trails while introducing a wider fit and zero-drop design for a more natural walking experience. For those who love the concept of the Trailhead but needed more toe space or a flatter platform, the Trail Blazer is a game-changer.

One of the biggest upgrades here is comfort and style. The Wide Natural Shape toe box means more toe space on long hikes, and the zero-drop design encourages better alignment and a more natural gait. It’s the kind of shoe that feels just as good on mile one as it does on mile ten. It also combines that retro look and feel that the Trailhead offers, but the Primal Pursuit was lacking.

So, whether you’re an experienced minimalist shoe wearer or just starting to transition away from traditional hiking boots, the Trail Blazer strikes the perfect balance between support, traction and natural movement, while performing just as good around town as it does on the trail.

Which Style is Right for You?

If you want an everyday, versatile trail-to-town shoe and tend to have a narrower foot, the Trailhead is a classic choice that won’t let you down. If you’re all about foot freedom and tackling rugged terrain, then consider the new Trail Blazer your next go-to with its zero-drop platform, spacious toe box, excellent grip, and vibrant design!

Whichever you choose, one thing’s for sure: Lems has you covered for every step of the journey.