How These Weird Barefoot Boots Saved My Feet
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- čas přidán 3. 05. 2024
- I started wearing the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC over a year ago and they completely changed hiking for me.
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I wore the soles off my Danners in just about a year (back when I used regular boots); how is there any tread left on those?
Disclaimer: Vibram FiverFingers for life, so that's an actual question
Same, I got really sick of rolled ankles. I switched to barefoot shoes about 2 years ago and not a single rolled ankle. I love my Trackers. Fab boot.
Oh good! I’m glad you’ve had the same experience, good to know it’s not just me. 🙂
Same here. Years and years of regularly rolled ankles. Switched to various kinds of barefoot shoes and now rolls are a stumble while running on a horse trail in Five-Fingers, not hitting the ground rolling an ankled just walking on the sidewalk. The last year has been 20 km + a day walking dogs at shelters in Ukraine, and I brought four pairs of different Vivo's and two pairs of Five Fingers. Walk on pavement, walks on trails, running with dogs through the forest wild man style. Love it!!!!
I use running shoes and never twisted my ankle.
@@adventureswithfrodo2721 Lucky you. I have rolled my ankles over and over since I was a teenager. Barefoot shoes are what finally built the ankle strength that now I don't. Trail running and hiking increase the likelihood too.
@@adventureswithfrodo2721 Good for you. Not for me. Barefoot shoes and the ability of my foot to adjust to the ground made all the difference.
Excellent job creating and editing this video Mr. Reid! Thank you!
My daughter and I switched to barefoot style shoes for running, hiking, backpacking, and casual wear, in 2012. She was 12 and I was 49. We purchased Vibram FiveFingers, New Balance Minimus 10V1's, and New Balance MT101's. We ran in the FiveFingers on both road and local hard packed, rock strew trails, and as she entered high school XC and track, she trained in the FF, and raced in them until she was just too fast for them (they're not a fast shoe, or a good racing shoe). She raced varsity XC and Track all 4yrs and was the only athlete on the teams to never have an injury. I used to privately coach her injured teammates, and by getting them out of their heavily marked running shoes (of all brands) I could get their injuries healed, fix their running form, and get them racing up near the top. My daughter and I backpacked R2R in the Grand Canyon with fully loaded packs, wearing the FF's, having backpacked there half a dozen times prior, it was amazing to do it in barefoot shoots. Our feet and legs felt so much better, and because of all the improvements to grip and balance, it was a completely different experience. In 2015 we started running R2R together as an XC run (no poles, no walking), in the FF's, and returned 5yrs in a row, on our birthdays, mid-Aug, because it was such a great adventure run. I'm now 60, still running in the FF's, the New Balance Minimus 10V1's, the Minimus MT1010's, and Merrell Trail or Vapor, Gloves. Vivo Barefoot Primus Trail FG are my work shoe, as a mechanic, and I can get a year out of those soles, standing all day on oily, gritty concrete in a shop. I'm currently training for more Grand Canyon runs, and the first one is in late May.
I like to say: Shoes are not a religion, they are a tool. Pick the correct tool for the job, like you would any other tool™
There are rock strewn local trails that I simply won't run on in my FF's (Spyridon or V-Trail 2.0 or Trek Ascent). Sure, I could "trot" along on them for maybe an hour and be fine. But my training is much harder and faster, and I run for several hours. Doing in the FF's is no fun, especially once I've tagged the bottom of my foot somewhere, and then inevitably tagged it umpteen more times in the same place. So in those instances, I wear a barefoot shoe that's better suited: Minimus 10V1, MT1010, or the Trail Glove or Vapor Glove. It all depends what trail I'm running, and how I'm going to run it. When I race a trail half marathon, I don't race in the FF's. I've tried racing trail halfs in them twice, and while it was fun, it quickly became not fun, because they're just too thin when you want to really be putting down the power, or charging the downhills. So when I race, I pick a different tool... typically that's the MT1010's.
For those looking to get into minimalist/barefoot shoes (Vivo BareFoot, Vibram FiveFinger, XeroShoes, Lems) I always recommend a very slow transition. The older the person is, the longer it's going to take to get the soft tissues in the feet, ankles, and lower legs, and especially the arch of the foot, to become strong enough to do what they're designed to do. Wear 'em around the house for a few weeks. Then wear 'em all day on the weekends. Then start wearing them while running errands and grocery shopping, etc (time on feet, spent walking around with a purpose). Then go for short walks in the neighborhood. Then start walking on trails....and finally, starting adding more time and mileage. Kids and young adults (teens) can jump right into this style of shoe, and just take off. But if you're an adult, plan on roughly 6 months to really feel great in them, and after a year, you'll be a completely different level of athleticism, no matter what you're doing. This is also a huge thing for elderly people who have doctors who start putting them into those thick soled shoes. That's the opposite of what should be done.
I completely agree with what you say about older people's shoes. I started with VivoBarefoot shoes for walking about 11 years ago at the age of 55. Took some getting used to, but I knew my muscles were learning. When I'd worn those away, I got Merrell barefoot shoes, great for walking in the Cairngorms, but not even water resistant. Recently got the Forest Esc and I love them, they're soooo soft and flexible, and the sole is rugged enough to cope with any terrain while still maintaining proprioception. Also NO BLISTERS!
So now, age 66 and able to spend more time hiking, my feet are in better shape shape than they have been since I was a child.
Regarding Stephen's comments about Revivo, the cost of this service compares favourably to other boots: I've looked at the price of getting my Scarpas resoled and that was £100+ when including postage. I decided to put that cost towards the new Vivos and discard the Scarpas.
@@vivianbailey5214 I'm delighted to hear this! I see all the time here in the US, that "old" people (I'm 60) are being put into stiff, very thick soled shoes, and they are barely able to walk in them. This happened to my former wife's father about 3yrs ago. We are all still very good friends, but I hadn't seen him in a while. He was bobbling around on top of some kind of thick "medical shoe" and I literally said, "What the hell are those and why are you wearing them?" "Oh, a doctor prescribed them so I can walk better. I have a lot of health issues and I can barely get around now."
I showed him my Vivo Barefoot Primus Trail FG, gave he and his wife an online link of where to find them, and then started a discussion about the dozens of inflammation creating foods that they every day, their weight gain, and that fact that he'd become diabetic. I'm happy to report that they purchased the shoes and he immediately loved them, started wearing them everywhere, including with a suit to my daughter's wedding, and it motivated him to start making other changes for his health. They started following the Dr. Gundry "Yes and No" food list, cut items containing sugar, corn, and grain out of their diet, lost a bunch of weight, and eventually, he was no longer diabetic. They are both doing fantastic...literally like they are 2 different people. It's amazing, because 3yrs ago, it was so bad that I was thinking, "Well, they won't be around much longer."
@@austinado16 That's amazing! Well done. I'm amazed at the number of folk I know of my age and younger who are on medication for various ailments that could have been avoided by better self-care, and more informed advice. Keeping active outdoors is an important part of this, and the right footwear is a basic to enable that!
May the road rise with you.
I went barefoot a couple of years ago and never looked back (in fact as you say my old boots now feel way too small). I have these exact boots and agree with all your points, though I didn’t get the heel pain. I started with Freet Mudee which are very minimal but have some ankle support, and took it gently till I was used to them. Walked on gravel roads and relearned how to walk gently. Now I wear the Jim Green Barefoot African Ranger every day and have the Vivos for proper hikes. They honestly do make hiking even more enjoyable, it’s not marketing hype.
I'd say be extension, also safer. Once you're comfortable with it, that is. Because, at least for me, I'm more careful with my footing when I can actually feel my footing instead of through some "protective" boot.
These are also my go-to hiking boots. I love them.
After three months of walking in barefoot shoes daily, my feet hurt tremendously after 1 hour in regular shoes. So I needed to get barefoot hiking boots, I wanted leather and not a membrane(they break down over time). So I ended up with these.
My first 40 km hike in them was with zero problem except on the angle, as you mentioned, but it quickly went away. (And I was the only one on that hike without blisters)
You need to give leather balm after a hike for them to last. But if you do, they will last for a long time.
Seems nearly everyone got used to them faster than me! 😂
I've been in these for nearly 2 years.
Wear them every day, all day. I'm a gardener. Wear them at work and hiking coastal paths and moorland. So perfect outdoor foot wear.
I don't lace the very bottom eyelets, gives more room for my toes.
Biggest problem I had was bruising the soles of my feet on gravel and Rocky ground.
So I fit flexible steel safety shoe insoles. Problem solved, and still very fkexible.
Best gripping soles of any boot I've ever had.
Most waterproof leather boots I've ever had. But you do need to keep well proofed using Renapur wax.
No blisters.
No roller ankles, or aching knees etc.
Can't recommend them enough.
I’ve these in black and absolutely love them! Like you I had some Achilles rub with a new pair, so now I buy Good reconditioned ones from Revivo - they’re already broken in, much cheaper and the sole is brand new anyway. Use mine for mountain hikes and daily dog handling in mud, wet grass etc, feet remain bone dry. I clean the wet mud off after every use and polish weekly with Kiwi / renapur. I hope Vivo continue to make these as IMHO there isn’t a better barefoot boot.
Im 3yrs in wearing these for hiking.
The grip is still their and ive just run a 20k ultra in them for the first time.
I was gobsmacked to have not one bit of fatigue or soreness.
I’m still not brave enough to try running long distances in them
@@StephenJReid As much as my feet and muscles are conditioned to them.I was apprehensive about it.I thought they would destroy my quads running down a 750m mountain decent.
I felt so confident in them and never had one slip and it was a mudfest.
Give it a go you may be surprised.
Thanks for a very thorough review! Similar sentiments to my own: I switched to barefoot shoes gradually by first wearing inexpensive water shoes I bought on Amazon for a couple of hours a day (hot tip!). After a month or two I took the plunge and bought my first pair of Vivobarefoots. Now I own four pairs of Vivos and they’ve completely replaced all of my other shoes. It’s a lot of fun to feel the ground when out walking, it’s like I get to experience my surroundings in a new way. I never intend to buy or wear “normal” shoes again. Learning to walk on the balls of my feet instead of striking the heels has been the key to enjoy these shoes. My strides are shorter but more comfortable now and I never get heel pain even after walking on tarmac all day. Can’t recommend enough.
Thanks for your appraisal! For those who like the idea but can't go full zero drop, the GoRuck MACV-1 hi-speed has similar characteristics, but a bit more drop, stiffer sole, and less broad toebox.
the cold is most likely because of the thin sole, I have worn the magna forest esc for over 3 years hiking and I have their thermal insoles and I haven't had problems with cold, everybody feels cold differently though so it could be that, I have worn them in -5c for hours though
Great thorough review. 👍🏻. I have these and the magna forest esc.. And various other pairs.. I agree in general, one caveat I would add is that if you are doing a thru hike or just a long distance multi day over predominately rock or hard surface then make sure either your feet are very very accustomed to it with heavy weight, or look at an alternative..
Before switching I hiked lots around the world with lowa renegades at got I think 2 minor blisters. I did the GR131 in gran Canaria with the dekons tracker low and got the worst pressure blisters. The last 12 miles were agony as I squelched my way to the finish..
I then did the GR131 in Tenerife with a friend.. Luckily he bought my magnas, however my feet were so badly damaged from the original hike I got the same pressure blisters. Maybe it wouldn't have happened if my feet had fully healed. I've just bought some altras for my coast to coast as I'm too worried about using my vivos for these.
I'm always walking around barefoot have had mine about a year and do lots of strength work for my feet.. Also a yoga instructor so it wasn't a case of not being used to them.. Thought its worth mentioning as nearly ruined my trip.
Overall I love them, just for long distance with weight I'm still not so sure..
Great review man !!!!
A good honest review. They do look good.
Changed over to these about 6 months ago and I absolutely love them. I've since bought the winter trackers which are also fantastic. Cannot recommend these enough!
I have been using the Magna Lite SG and Mens Hydra ESC Love them both for the trail and mountain hikes. Thank you for your code I just ordered Tracker Forest ESC and hoping they are everything I expect.
Really pleased you’re enjoying them, Stephen. I thought you would! They’re a fantastic boot, and there’s lots more where they came from! Once the weather is nice, I’d definitely grab yourself a pair of trail shoes… 😁
Regarding your bit about longer distances, you’ll be surprised how far you can go. I comfortably did the Caledonian Challenge years ago, which was 54 miles in under 24h. Did the Helvellyn ridge a couple of years back with full camping gear, which was around 20 miles. I don’t even consider it anymore, they’re just what I wear whatever I’m doing. Sure you’ll end up the same way!
I have my eye on the new Hydra ESC, although honestly I’m not sure if they are the right kind of shoes for me to do a lot of running in. I have a bit of a nerve injury on the sole of one foot which for running I feel does require a bit of cushioning. But we shall see!
@@StephenJReid I have them, they’re great. I really love the ESC - it’s one of the biggest positives. I do have the Primus Trail shoes, in knit and non-knit and really like them too; though the sole isn’t AS grippy, at least ok damp ground.
@@StephenJReid I have reallllly low volume feet so I habitually add insoles to all my shoes and a hack I’ve found that also works with vivos is cutting up a cheep yoga mat to make custom insoles. They take a few hours wear to compact down but you end up with a very thin layer that adds a bit of cushion as well as more insulation, I bought my forests a little big so I could do this and still fit maximum cushion smartwool socks and it’s cosy as hell in snow. It really does help with cold feet and if you have space you can add more layers over time which is what I used to do with my big boots. I’ve yet to find any on the market that are low enough volume for me!
@@StephenJReid I have the Hydras (as well as the Tracker Forest ESC, the Magna Forest ESC and several other pairs of Vivos), and they're definitely more forgiving over rough ground than the standard FG sole. I struggle a bit with the FG sole over rough ground, but no issue with the Hydras. The Michelan outsole really is great.
Do you use the thermal insole in your trackers? I find it really helps with cold weather use. There's a noticeable difference between my trackers with the thermal insole and my magnas with the standard insole when the ground is frozen.
Got my trackers 2 years ago and waxed them from the start, especially the stitch lines, and have never leaked. The ankle stability is unreal.
I went for the magna forest esc rather than the tracker, they’ve been excellent and very comfortable after breaking in - the thick leather strap that holds the top eyelet rubbed on my ankle bones to begin with. Still a bit warm for summer, and obviously more susceptible to water getting in through the wool section at the top. Still going strong after 18 months’ use.
I have worn barefoot shoes for everyday life for over 10 years so pretty well adapted - but I only run short distances in Vivos and prefer more cushion for decent runs
I went "barefoot" about 20 years ago and I genuinely feel I got tons of benefits from it. But my toes have spread out so much I can hardly find any off the shelf shoes or boots to fit. Even so called wide fit trainers from Altus and Meindl are too narrow. A few Merrel and Keen shoes are wide enough for me, and I'm wearing Altberg boots with a H width, but frankly it's become a bit of a problem.
Years ago I went searching for comfortable dress shoes for wearing to a convention and discovered the benefits of going barefoot as well as wearing barefoot style shoes. Because barefoot style shoes were so expensive, and because I was not yet sure this was going to work for me, I primarily went barefooted or wore homemade barefoot style shoes. I was shocked at how my feet and ankles gained so much strength. It also greatly improved my circulation such that I now find most closed-toe shoes unbearably hot except in cold wintry weather. I never plan to go back to regular footwear.
So in late 2022 I was planning a winter hike and wanted something a little more weatherproof than tabi socks with thin sandals or homemade moccasins. I decided to purchase a pair of Vivobarefoot boots. I had never spent that much money on shoes. But I wanted something that would keep me warm in cold, wet weather AND give me good grip on slippery mountain trails. I am so glad I chose this brand! They performed beautifully on the hike and have held up wonderfully for all my other cold-weather hikes. I highly recommend them to all my friends.
Great vid dude! Your video quality is way better than a lot of bigger channels. Top notch cinematography and editing. One question: what's the little stove you use around 6:55?
Looking forward to the carrantouhill video. Haven't heard of anyone else doing the O'Shea's gully descent. Interested to see how you found it 😂
I have a pair of these - well, ones just like them. Ugly, well, unusual, they might be, but they're also the most comfortable boots I've ever worn. My dog and I go on walks almost every day - about 1300 km per year. After 2 years of daily use on gravel covered roads, I'm seeing quite a bit of wear on the soles, but that's to be expected.. I intend to buy another pair the second these are unusable. They've been fantastic for the kind of walking I do. Thanks for the video
I have been wearing barefoot shoes for about 7 years now and Vivos for 6 of them. I have had quite a few models (3-4 different gobis, magna trail, scott II utilety, 2-3 different primus, addis, tracker forest ESC, ) and my absolute favourite daly is the gobi in leather without any insole or socks, i even hike in summer with them, for wet and cold weather i love the Forest ESC, i the beguinning the Forest ESC put pressure on the inside ankle bone when using the standard lacing method. Good things about vivos is that they are soft and supple and you can change the lacing to pull on one part of the boot and at the same time bee looser on a different part. I use a modified sawtooth pattern from Ian's Shoelace Site and skip the inside roller to relive the pressure on the ankle bone. The sawtooth pattern pulls the inside of the boot up into the arch of the foot making the boot form and making it feel even more like a sock than a boot.
Love mine, changed my walking life and extended it having developed severe Bunyans on both big toes. THEY DO TAKE TIME TO physically GET USED TOO, if you’ve never walked barefoot before, as you are retraining your feet and legs to walk as you’re intended too, allow for that , your calves will thank you in the long term!
You also change how you walk I find: you become more aware of the ground beneath your feet, in feel, grip and terrain, but that’s a good thing.
Take your time and enjoy reinvigorating your hiking!
I started with altra and tracker barefoot.i use both for different types of hike.really enjoying the boots.love the way my feet seem to shape to the rock.sports pursuit sometimes have them at almost half price.i,m 67 and basically grew up in plimsoles so the transition for me was pretty quick.
I’ve a pair of Altra Olympus on the way to try for running. I have a nerve injury on the sole of my foot so for higher impact activities I feel I want a bit of cushioning. I’m maybe just paranoid from when I hurt my foot running in vibram five fingers
I’ve used them for 3 years now. Still wearing them on long walks even with holes wearing on the heels.
I started wearing them because I’d heard they helped knee pain. And happy to say they have.
I will never go back
I buyed this boots in the color obsidian at easter sale. I had a really bad experience with them. After 4 hours of wearing them the glue which is connecting the leather to the sole started falling apart on both boots.
Then I put them on next morning and while lacing up one of the lacing hooks popped of.
I contacted support and will recive my new pair soon. I hope they are better quality.
I will update you if I used them for some time.
Oh yikes, definitely sounds like a bad batch for that to happen immediately. Hopefully they sort that out for you.
Yeah I hope so, because they were super comfortable and I really liked them.
i have these! they're great. i also recommend the magna forest esc for similar terrain but less boggy. (i think a lot of vivo shoes are form-over-function, but a handful are really excellent)
I’ve wondered about those or the Hydra ESC for warm weather
This is a brilliant video you've made.
The Tracker Forest ESC's are definitely my favourite hiking boots, if you ever get some sun in Ireland, give the Primus Trail FG's a go for some fast and light summiting 👣
Definitely going to be looking for a summer option. Glad you enjoyed the video. Was a lot more work than I thought it would be 😂
@@StephenJReid they often work out that way 😂
Great review Stephen. I was thinking about doing the same thing after my initial review in 2021 but I am not sure I can say any more than you have already done. The only concern I have is the cold for the same reasons you gave and in terms of moisture I just use a pair of Sealskinz socks if there is a risk of wet feet. I am not sure how Mike has managed four years in his boots, was he involved in the pre release testing as they weren't on sale to the public until May 2021. I got a heads up on their pending release from someone who was involved in their development and got them just in time for a big trip that year.
I wore Lem's boulder boot (zero drop) to transition to barefoot boots. Currently rocking Jim Green Barefoot African Rangers. Note: They did take about 6 weeks to really break in & mould to my feet.
Brilliant review. My feet are getting worse and worse and now limping. When I was a kid (10 and under) my mum couldn't get me to wear shoes. I find them so uncomfortable and can never understand why they go into a point haha, where is the logic??? Im now finding my very expensive hiking boots very restrictive in movement and causing more issues. Thank you for this video, I shall give them a go, even a daily casual pair to try
I bought them to pair with Darn Tough socks as winter boots. They're awesome for hiking and hunting. I can't wear anything that's not zero drop anymore. I prefer the comfort and stability of flat minimalist footwear and normally no more than a few millimeter sole but the additional tread insulates my feet when the ground is cold, so it's the perfect compromise imo.
Are they good for hunting as you can step more softly in them? I’ll have to investigate Darn Tough socks
@@StephenJReid personally I just feel more sure footed. Darn Tough are just lifetime guaranteed Merino wool socks that are made in the USA, which is where I'm from. So far I haven't had to have any replaced, so maybe it wouldn't matter where they're manufactured.
@@Engrave.Danger love me a good pair of Merino socks, I’ll have to have a look. I spotted them at the National Outdoors Expo this year but didn’t take a closer look.
I need those boots and the hip leg helper exoskeleton as well. At 66 all my tendons and muscles are getting too tight for long hikes. If I do not do multi mile hikes the tendons get tighter. Loose loose situation with age. The products might be a win-win!
Thanks Stephen... interesting 🤔
I've never been one for boots, and now that I'm old my feet have spread out like paddle boards...so just maybe, boots that don't behave like boots, and uppers that are quite forgiving, might be something I should try .
Great review whatever I do 👌👍
I’m curious, what have you been mostly wearing?
@@StephenJReid Ha... I'm a lightweight...armchair hiker mostly 😁
Local spots for me, and Sketchers for comfort.If it rains, my feet get wet. If it's icy, I don't tend to go walking.
What annoys me is I'll find a really great, all-round shoe...then they change the design, and the magic's gone 😣
I am a long range hiker and a shoe-nerd. I would love to have a pair of these since most of my training is done in barefoot shoes; but, when I do long distance hiking (around 40 km days), I prefer going for lighter zero drop terrain joggers with no ankle support, some added cushionging and a pair of hiking poles. The lack of cushioning against the rocks will totally destroy your feet if you go for really long days for several days in a row, no matter how much you train your feet for it.
I agree with that, as much as I can do long days in the vivos I don’t have the confidence or I think the experience to do multiday in them. Although there are people who do. Been testing the Altra Olympus 5 lately. I don’t feel as confident in them as the vivos but they are very comfy underfoot for flatter trails
@@StephenJReid Those are the ones I hiked 12 days in a row with last summer. The only issue I had with them is the wide heel area of the cushioning which seemed to dig into the heel from the side. Unoticable when running or dayhiking, but certainly noticable after five or so days. After researching it, other hikers had the sime issue, and I am not that much of a heelstriker, but I will certainly land on heel when walking slowly or supporting weight downhill.
Seems like most people prefer Topo these days, and I am going to try a little less stack height than the altra olympus.
I also ordered a pair of leather vivobarefoot Ra III today to make sure I have a more dressed up barefoot alternative!
I’ve been wearing the Primus Trail FG for a year and find them soooo comfortable. On the odd occasion when I need to wear my. “normall” shoes they feel so constrictive. Horrible feeling. I’ll be using your discount code to purchase a pair of trail boots 😊
Those boots look nice with the Michelin outsole. Expensive. I picked up a pair of Gobi 2's from their Revivo store. They're comfortable but it's a lot to spend for how fast they break down. I transitioned to barefoot style shoes over 2 years ago. It took a good 4-6 months for my muscles, ligaments, and bones to get used to it. I have too many pair now. Even at pair for weddings 😂 My everyday shoes are inexpensive wide Whitins from Amazon.
I have Xero Mesa Trail shoes for day hikes or backpacking trips with a lighter load, but trails with small rocks and roots take a toll. I wear Topo Athletic Runventure 4 with 20mm stack height for backpacking these days. I like the Vibram outsoles but they aren't as flexible as Altra's MaxTracs. For colder temps, I have a pair of Xero Alpine boots.
I've done extensive research on this, as to reading everything from orthopedic books to anthropology... there's no question, boots are for weak ankles and poor footing. Take away the stabilization, let your body remember how humans walked forever, and you'll be stronger for it. My favorites are Keen Newport H2's, I've climbed, scrambled, kayaked, hiked, ran, swam, etc in them. So while these are high, they're not stabilized too much, and probably amazing for gaining strength.
My brother has been wearing barefoot shoes for about 10 years and swears by them. I did order some but used their online measuring tool (basically taking a picture of your foot) and ended up ordering a smaller size than I usually get. Tried to convince myself for a couple of weeks that i hadn't got the wrong size but finally had to admit to myself that i had and havent got round to changing them. I have got some TOPO Athletic though which I love, although not minimalist shoes, they only have a 5mm drop so might be a good option for people looking to transition.
They seem an interesting concept. What will you do when it comes to winter?
The tent setup edit made me chuckle ⛺️
I have these boots and so many similar experiences! (I call them my kicking slippers)
Like you I started off with fivefingers but after breaking my toe and when it healed it apparently pointed in a squiffy direction I haven’t been able to wear them.
I also roll my ankles, before vivos multiple times a day so my status quo was bruised ankles, I rarely roll them now. I’ve also had some pain in my arch that is 80% better but starts again if I wear normal shoes.
Also had the pain at the back of my heel that took a little while to break them in but is fine now. Only times I ever wear other shoes is if I need crampons. Have also noticed most of my old shoes are feeling pretty small and not just around the toe box so may have to replace my 4 season boots at some point.
I actually have warmer feet in snowy conditions wearing these, think it’s cos my foot’s more active.
Genuinely won’t wear anything else if I can avoid it, am slowly selling of 3/4 of my shoes 😅
Be warned though they will wear down very quickly on tarmac, my days shoes (tracker II) have barely any tread left and are leaky and pretty scruffy but still have plenty of life.
So far the forests have been waterproof but sometime need a really good dry out, I have them in black as not really a fan of light soles, always feel it should be the other way round 😁
I think they have lowered my centre of gravity in addition to making my feet and legs stronger so skipping around on boulders and scree is a lot more fun 😎
Haven’t used them on tarmac much myself but that makes sense. I go through a pair of £100 road running shoes in 6months running on tarmac 🙈
Very true about the centre of gravity. I felt a lot more confident on scree in these than my old boots
I love mine. I’ve had a few different pairs.
I just wish they had more stores so you could try them on. I think people need to see them in hand before they give them a try.
Agree 100%, not being able to try them on was a big reason I waited so long to try them.
Yeah one of my local shops has approached them about being a stockist but they seem really set on their online business model 😐
Last Xmas I got a lone from a family member and order 5 pairs to try on and sent 4 back since they don’t charge. Still annoying though!
I use these boots too, mate. Great boot. Light, fantastic tread. Incredible grip on wet granite and just a fantastic boot. Not the best on tarmac, though, lol. Still prefer the altra runners on the tarmac
what's the trousers, they look mighty comfy
If I was doing a lot of miles on tarmac I’d use something more cushioned as well, especially if I was running. I like a bit of cushiony bounce when I run. I’ve got some Altra Olympus on the way to try.
The trousers are Revolution race outdoor jeans, had them a few years. Comfy but can be a bit warm.
I have walked a couple of long distance hikes in these including Cape wrath trail. Numerous day hikes and other walks. The limit that I found was using them in -22C, then again any non insulated shoe is too cold at those temps. The durability surprised me. My particular pair stings my ankle bone on left foot where one of the hooks is, wearing thicker socks and not tightening them as much removes that.
-22C?!!! I get cold in them at around 4C. But then I have terrible circulation in my feet. Any issues over multi-day?
@@StephenJReid Well on the Cape wrath I found them to be a bit too warm at times funnily enough. Also when they got wet for a long time the black dye stained my feet black for a few days lol.
I will now mostly use these for colder weather (not -22 haha) and will try to find trail runners for the long distance stuff. Got the Hydra ESC but just don't really get on with the tongueless design.
@@easternmenace I was eyeing up the Hydra ESC, what don’t you like about the design?
@@StephenJReid Well it's tongueless so the top of it is like a sock. The problem I found was that it's just not stretchy enough so putting the shoe on with socks is really hard, the heel of my socks end up being pushed up and sits above the shoe. Tried wearing without socks but just shredded my feet lol so don't do that. Might improve with time I dunno.
Also I got the red ones and they are fk ugly. As my luck would have it Vivo released a really nice colour recently.
I got black feet from mine as well when I first got them
Great review. I have been teetering on the edge of buying these for a while and you may have persuaded me. I would be interested to know if you where barefoot shoes all the time in your day to day activities or just when you go hiking?
I have a mix of shoes, although I try and use ones with a wider toe box when possible. In the summer I live in a pair of Xero shoes barefoot sandals which are about as minimal as you can get.
Also have a pair of Altras and Topo barefoot style running shoes.
Ive used barefoot shoes since 'born to run' came out. Ive got great splay in my toes. I even include toe separaters in my shoes. Ive hiked the length of New Zealand on the Te Araroa and the Pacific crest Trail mexico to canada. With the added weight and months of long miles I found i need some cushion so i wear runners with zero drop, wide splay no arch but with a stack height of cushion. Otherwise i wear flat bendy inexpensive canvas shoes from Splay. They are cute have a few styles and colrs and i get compliments all the time. Recently I have some far less expensive waterproof barefoot boots with low stack height for day hikes from Saguaro as i just spent the winter near the rainforest in Washington State. Also i dont wear leather. I do have a pair of walking shoes from vivo, tho.
To add, up until wearing barefoot shoes I had a lifelong meniscus knee problem from a childhood skiing accident. After a few weeks of wearing barefoot shoes that issue went away. Ive never looked back.
Tried these but just couldn't get used to them so binned. However wearing them did teach me about space for toes in boots so I now have wide toe box boots from Hanwag Tetra II Wide GTX . They are amazing.
You binned them?! 😱😱 But fair enough, I did say that I don’t think they will suit everyone. I wear a mix of shoes but like you look for wider toe box now.
@@StephenJReid Binned = took them to my local charity shop!
Oh phew 😂 Was about to go poking about in your bins
I run in Vibram minimalist shoes yet still hike in heavy boots. I'm constantly losing toenails on long hikes. I'm going to have to try these.
I wear mine all the time 👍🏻 The ‘Feel Ground’ is great. Many very long walks in the mountains of home, Eryri and Scotland. After a clean and wax they look brand new 😎. Can you say something about the fit for you? If your heel is at the back of the boot, how much space do you have in front of your toes?
I have maybe 10mm space in front of my toes. I think I may have gone a half size down in these for some reason.
Thanks 👍🏻
Same here, tempted to try a size down. Shame they don’t yet do ½ sizes. The gap is really fine though. Especially descending, toes creep towards the front then.
Nice video. Not my kind of boots, I actually walk in pretty heavy and high boots, leather and goretex to keep my feet dry and warm, whether it's raining or soggy bog hikes.
I can understand though why folks enjoy barefoot.
As kids, me and my brother would walk for hours on gravel/rocky paths barefoot every summer holiday.
The first days it would hurt as you were used to 'stamp around' on trainers, the last week we'd be running over those paths.
About getting wet feet when walking through grass, once I read an article that especially in morning dew circumstances, grasses give off a bit sugar, which lowers the surface tension, therefore making it easier for the 'sugary water' to penetrate through a membrane/leather. Was an old newspaper article so no link available.
“Marmite Boot”! LOL! Love the humor. Subscribed. Thank you for this wonderful review. I am transitioning to barefoot gear after wearing arch supports for over 30 years. I am currently using Altra Lone Peak’s on the trail, and Whitin’s around town. Yes, my feet ache, but that just tells me they are complaining about doing the work they were intended to do. I would like to get to the point where I am confident that I can do a long trail with 15Kg in something like this boot, or another Vivobarefoot product. How many months, or years, did it take you to carry the 10Kg for 10 hours? Many thanks.
I’d say it took me about 6months to a year to be able to go all day in them with a heavy pack. But that’s maybe only hiking once every two weeks. Everyone is different.
Don’t spread them on toast though! 🤪
@@StephenJReid 🤣
Really interested in these having partially switched to barefoot this year and currently wearing near zero boots already. I found this a very comprehensive and clear review 👍 What are they like with gaiters? Walking on Donegal hills without gaiters is not a fun day out!
With gaiters the issue is that there isn’t a heel gap for the underneath strap. So you can attach them but on hard ground, you’ll feel the strap. I don’t do a lot of hiking in really boggy conditions so I tent to wear hiking trousers with built in gaiters that hook onto the laces. Not quite as good but they do work. There might be some zero drop gaiters out there but I haven’t looked into it
@@StephenJReid ah good point 👍
Only wear them on offroad .... czcams.com/video/0DD6BlBk3T0/video.html
I am out looking for just that model. Did you get the same size you normally wear in regular shoes?
i have barefoot shoes for gym. great for deadlift, but it took a while to get used to them in squat, clean and movements like that.
probably, the best way to get your feet used to barefoot footwear is to get casual, everyday shoes.
but for outdoors... i'll be injured very quickly in boots like that, i'm used to rush like a tank trough terrain in combat boots or hiking boots.
i wish there would be foot-shaped hiking boots... not barefoot, just regular hiking boots...
Without a doubt, my favourite walking boots. 25+ years teaching Outdoor Ed. 10+ years in minimalist footwear.
Great video, thanks. I bought some trackers a while back- planter put pay to them - and I sold them. But , I am contemplating more as I am better. My question is - how are they on hard track- tarmac- roads etc. I do lots on and off road and am aware of granite paths on Dartmoor for miles ….. do they/ your feet manage this ok?
It’s mostly hard packed, rocky trails where I’ve used them and once you get used to them they are fine. At the start you can get sore feet until you’ve properly transitioned. You’ll find you end up walking slightly differently
Ok…. Cool, I’ve just returned from the Camino … using very cushioned boots- that did great, but feel I want to feel more! Many thanks agsin 😊
Got intrigued by watching long distance hikers (1000-4500+ km) wearing them. Switched a year and a half ago to barefoot shoes myself. Can only confirm, if you have bad ankles (I rolled ankles constantly, broke right ankle 3 times, left ankle once) these shoes may be the answer. They were for me. However, I don’t have that much money, so, I bought Chinese made barefoot (actually)water shoes. They did it for me although I’m dreaming of affording myself a pair of nice ones too one day.
I did the same thing. Bought cheap barefoot water shoes. They are still my favorite, but since I live in the Mountains, I bought 2 pair of sturdier ones. One for summer (thin socks) & one pair for winter (thick socks). I wish I could afford a pair of boots for the more rocky trails. I can’t wear my old hiking boots anymore.
4:41 It happens to me most of the time...this boot looks good..i like it, Sir
Painful 😬
@@StephenJReid ya it is sir 🥴
I have used the revivo service I would caution people to say it took 2 months and the new soles have already started to separate
What about something for a day to day wear to work or driving etc ?
Barefoot shoes saves my knees, I am near 70 and my old knees have seen better days. Regular shoes with raised heels cause me to come down on my heels with legs straight and this causes impact shock on my knees, got a severe knee injury a couple years ago. Switching to zero drop shoes (Altra Lone Peak 6) causes me to come down on my forefoot with knees bent and my leg muscles act like shock absorbers removing shock on my knees. However, these took over 7 months for my feet to adapt but know they are fine. Just got back section hiking the Appalachian Trail and the soles on my shoes were thin and I felt every rock & root on the trail, I have a different Altra zero drop model that has 1 inch thick soles and I will use that next trip. There was one other problem, since my leg muscles are working "on every step" I got wore out sooner, I don't yet have the muscle strength on my legs necessary, probably a multi year adaptation to build enough muscle strength to hike up & down those mountains carrying a 32lb pack.
would you recommend sizing down? if so by how much?
I have 2 pair. Love them
Would love to try but can’t do that price. Are there any similar cheaper alternatives?
Back in the early 80s I was in high school and I ran track and cross-country. We couldn’t afford fancy running shoes but the trainer for our school was a well known legendary Tinker Hatfield, he had a deal with a couple of shoe companies to get highly discounted or even free shoes. I went through probably five or six pairs of shoes that always ended up making my feet hurt and more often than not giving shin splints. One day my feet were hurting so much at a track meet that I took my shoes off. I had to run my last event in my socks. All my problems went away. My coach suggested try running in some cheap Indian moccasins, well the rest is history no more problems with running and I excelled.
Quick question on sizing….how does it compare with other boots when choosing sizes? Normally I’m a size 9 and I would go up a full size to 10 to accommodate good hiking socks (my current boots are actually a size and a half). The online sizing suggests 9 (or 8 for a snug fit which is surprising)
I started to use more and more thin military boots and was happy to feel the ground and discover complete new muscles in the feet.
I did then a mistake during one trail I used very thin barefoot shoes on a sharp graveled trail and got very bumped heels with blue spots.
I always have a 20 to 40 kg Ruck on my back and I'm very concerned, that these sharp edges of gravel trails will give me again blue heels.
To invest some 250 Euros or more to find out, that these boots have too thin soles to absorb the sharpnes of these rough trails, I'm afraid of.
Any Experiences out from large users, who are using heavy loaded military rucks on rough stone trails?
How do you find the transfer from these when hiking to the likes of Mudclaws? Do you find normal trail/fell running shoes uncomfortable from using barefooted boots? What do you use to retreat?
As I said in my previous comment in high school, I ran in moccasins for track and cross-country. I eventually got into rollerskating speed skating, and I had very weak ankles. Eventually, I was able to build up my ankles. I got used to foot pain from traditional rollerskating boots, all was well then I switched to cycling and I started having issues with my feet going numb from what I believe is the laces to try to cross the top of my feet so I switch shoes that had a canvas strap buckle and then wore them with buckles all the way loose, I still have this problem with most shoes and find myself wearing Teva style sandals when I can get away with it. Be curious, if the flexibility of these shoes would allow me to take the pressure off the tops of my feet where the laces are which seems to be causing problems with most of my footwear.
BTW
How is the fit,true to size,go bigger/smaller?
I used to wear barefoot shoes for every day and wear barefoot running shoes for up too 20km distance on the road, I even done sub 20min 5km runs in them, I stopped wearing them mainly because you can always get them in your size when you need them and they are expensive, I’m not really bothered no more but I love the way you feel connected to nature more
You should have not used them on the (flat) road but only offroad.
I found the transition to be barely noticeable so have become a confirmed convert. I found they would intermittently annoy the outside of the right ankle where the leather joint doubles up but that eased with use. I now find that the reverse transition to 'normal ' boots for say crampon use or where non freezing cold injury is a real risk to be really quite uncomfortable for quite a while after starting each day.
Interesting! What kinds of shoes did you wear before? Jealous you found it so easy 😂
How about the comfort? What is the stack hight?
I am curious if these have the same problem as the older vibram five finger boots with the cloth top portion.
I bought a pair of those way back, the one intended for hiking at that time and really loved it but I don't think it's designed for 110 kilo dudes bringing 110 liter backpacks on multi day hikes as by the end of the second month the cloth upper just ripped from the sole on the big toes and rendered the pair useless.
These do seem a lot tougher but this experience and the price just has me wondering if I'll end up in the same situation again seeing that all of you guys testing this seems to be fairly light chaps from my point of view.
I have those boots and combined with sealskinz socks are wonderful. My feet stay dry and blister free.
Good combo, I have a few waterproof socks, although in summer they turn my feet into hot swamps
I used to wear vivo barefoot shoes. Last year, I ordered new shoes and I paid with my credit card. After two months, I complained to Vivobarefoot, but they promised to return the payment. Nothing happened. The company is Chinese now and the customer service is non-existent. I turned to a German make, which is high quality. Barefoot shoes saved my back. Vivo Barefoot cheated me for over €100.
What’s the German make you tried please?
@@TheFlyingGerbil ZAQQ
@@paulsehstedt6275 thanks I’ll take a look
i like mine, except for cycling. i like to be barefoot at home, years past i have proper bare foot run, along beach, back on the cycle/walking path.... its just getting used to it, and changing ones foot fall.
Great review! 👣 Always had my eye on this brand but never got round to buying a pair. Maybe this is a sign 🤔
Well if you do, use STEPHEN20 😂 (I don’t get anything extra from that)
@@StephenJReid haha yes saw the code! Noted! 🙌🏼
What about barefoot stylee for urban dwellers? I have a pair of Splays that I periodically practice punctilious perambulation with, but they’re so thin!
Are those Fjallraven trousers Stephen?
Crocks with mud and snow tread.... I will look into these some more. Is the boot Quieter than Boots.
I have recently recieved the Magna Forest Esc, they feel quite tight on the top of my foot and I find that one can't really wear tick socks, is this typical?
I've been flirting with buying a pair of Lems for a while, they're similar to these ones.
You might have just convinced me.
Sounds great till you see the $270 price tag. Maybe if they drop the price to something reasonable and they were available in stores where I could try them on I'd be very interested.
I am wearing mostly barefoot shoes for 6 years now but I still don’t like them for prolonged periods on hard surfaces. If I have a day in the city in front of me I want something with cushioning.
My sneakers have zero drop, my steel toe work boots have maybe an inch of raised heel. Feels weird everytime I switch back and forth, even though I switch all the time.
I have those boots, I mostly bought them for wearing in winter in the city, but I also hike in them in colder weather. Boy they leave bruises in front of my ankles when going on not flat path :( they also left black marks on my merino socks
I love these boots but please work into them. I've done heavy mileage, and its damaged my legs/feet because i wasn't used to it. Great boots none the less!
My only criticism, i wish the sole of the boot wrap up higher for your toes. I've kicked a few boulders and it can suck.
Ermm
Since I took up running,most of my outdoors adventures are running,lake district and peak District.
I guess they wouldn't be a first choice.
Would you say the closest running option would be something like the Altar lone peak?
Yeah I also prefer a bit more padding if I’m going to be running, just with the higher impacts. Altra or Topo are the two main “padded” barefoot style running brands that I’ve come across so far
@@StephenJReid BTW
What is "fit" like, are they true to size,do u go size up or down?
You have to get used to them, your feet will strengthen with gradual use. Example.. wear them for small walk around and over time you can do a mile or 15 miles etc
I like the idea but I don't think I'm dedicated enough for the transition. Also I don't like the idea of it making my other shoes,boots feel uncomfortable. Good vid mate. Food for thought...for your feet😂
How are your knees doing?
I spent my childhood years in NZ going barefoot all year round. It ain't all it's cracked up to be. You develop calluses, I used to know at least one guy who stubbed out his cigarettes with his bare feet - but there is still stuff around that can cut your feet to ribbons.
I like them but they make me squeal when I tread on uneven ground. When I transitioned, my feet ached on top and I find them cold when you stop but, I'm still in them
All amazing benefits of barefoot footware are true only for training cycle.
The reality competition (even if it's yourself who you are competing with for a PR), is that every little bit matters. Overuse trauma is real. Cushion prevents overuse trauma. That's it. No amount of training helped me with pain after 40km and 2k up per day in the mountains. And then next day, and next, 14 hours from first light to last, with a fair bit of grade 3 scrambling. Switching from "responsive" la sportivas bushido to "cushy" jackals made all the difference. If you dont feel any effects of overuse in barefoot shoes, you are not pushing yourself, basically conducting training routine.
Thing that helped me with my actual acute trauma both when running and climbing was gym and weightlifting, in the end. Once i started operating freely with extra weight of my own, all acute issues of ligaments and twists just went away.
There's a big difference between hiking in them and Running in them. I personally wear more cushioned shoes for any serious running. For me the impact forces are just too high, although I know others who love running in them. I've also found that hiking and walking in them means my ankles are stronger for running in any shoes, so its a way for me to get the best of both.
@@StephenJReid Exactly. Barefoot shoes have therapeutic effect and really help with improving experience if you have minor problems with stability. But they have zero to none perfomance effects. Aka they wont increase your race time or mileage directly, so the are generally popular among people who just want basic fitness in the same fashion that walking 10 thousand steps improves your overall health, generally speaking.
How do they work in regards to pronation?
I over pronate on both feet, tend to scape the outer heels off my shoes first. These seem to be holding up better, possibly because of the flat sole.