Icarus Ascent Gen 2 Review: A Leather Barefoot-Style Court Sneaker

Barefoot-style shoes often look like gym gear. The Ascent Gen 2 from Icarus Footwear takes the minimalist approach and puts it in a classic court sneaker you can wear almost anywhere. Here's a closer look.

About Icarus Footwear

Icarus Footwear makes barefoot-style shoes, toe socks and toe spacers, built around a foot-shaped wide toe box and a zero-drop minimalist sole.

What Is the Ascent Gen 2?

The Ascent Gen 2 is a minimalist leather court sneaker designed for work, the gym, dinner or casual wear.

Key Features

Full-grain leather upper

The upper uses full-grain leather for comfort, water resistance and breathability, and it breaks in with wear. Padding at the tongue and ankle collar adds comfort.

Thin, flexible, zero-drop sole

The 5mm outsole blends natural and synthetic rubber with a full-length herringbone tread for grip on wet and dry surfaces.

Three insole options

Each pair includes three insole sets: 3mm zero-drop, 4mm zero-drop and a 4-9mm option with extra heel cushion. You can swap them to adjust fit and cushioning, and Icarus suggests the thickest insole for people transitioning to minimalist shoes.

Colors and Price

The Ascent Gen 2 comes in Black/Gum, White/Gold and White/Red. At the time of writing, it's listed at $144.99. Icarus also offers a satisfaction guarantee.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Classic sneaker look in a minimalist shoe
• Full-grain leather upper
• Wide toe box and zero-drop sole
• Three interchangeable insoles
• Grippy herringbone tread

Cons

• Minimal cushioning takes time to get used to
• Leather needs a break-in period
• Premium price

Who Is It Best For?

The Ascent Gen 2 suits people who like minimalist shoes but want something that looks at home at work or out to dinner.

How to Save

Icarus offers free shipping and returns on US orders over $100, plus free international shipping.

Final Verdict

The Icarus Ascent Gen 2 is a stylish, well-made minimalist sneaker with smart touches like interchangeable insoles.

Check the current price and deals on the Ascent Gen 2 at Icarus Footwear