Our verdict
The Elevar Arc Racer and the Lems are too close to call — we rated both 9.5/10. There's no clear winner here, so it comes down to what you want it for. We break that down below.
Elevar Arc Racer
Lems
Side by side
| Attribute | Elevar Arc Racer | Lems |
|---|---|---|
| Our rating | 9.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| Best for | If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. | Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks. |
| Standouts |
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| Watch-outs |
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Which one is right for you?
Choose the Elevar Arc Racer if…
If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
- Exceptional comfort rated 9.5/10
- High breathability rated 9/10
Choose the Lems if…
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
- Looks like a normal boot, not a minimalist shoe
- 9.5/10 comfort rating
Why we rate them this way
Elevar Arc Racer — 9.5/10
If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy.
What we liked: Exceptional comfort rated 9.5/10, High breathability rated 9/10, 15 grams lighter than Ultraboost per shoe, Bouncy cushioning matches Ultraboost performance, Excellent value at $80 price point.
Worth knowing: Insole fit could be improved.
Lems — 9.5/10
Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
What we liked: Looks like a normal boot, not a minimalist shoe, 9.5/10 comfort rating, Lightweight at 9 oz—easy to pack, Runs true to size, Great value at $150.
Worth knowing: Wide toe box takes a few wears to normalize, Divisive aesthetic—not universally appealing, Lighter outsole reduces traction on technical terrain, Standard version not waterproof.
Common questions
Is the Elevar Arc Racer or the Lems better?
We rated both 9.5/10 — it's a genuine toss-up. Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.
What's the difference between the Elevar Arc Racer and the Lems?
Short version — Elevar Arc Racer: If you don't care about the logo on the side, this is the smarter buy. Lems: Rare minimalist boot that looks normal with 9.5/10 comfort—we'd buy again, but expect a toe-box break-in and divisive looks.