Hi, thank you for your video!! I tried to buy a pair of Vivobarefoot Winter SG and put the GT20 code at checkout, but the code does not work. Can you help me please.
I so wish they would come out with a work man’s tracker, carbon fiber safety toe , 0 drop, little thicker sole. So tired of 12hr shifts in conventional work boots. Come on vivo.
That would be pretty sweet but also challenging as it’s such a niche market! I wonder if you’d have better luck finding a local shoe maker that can modify them to suit, could be a slightly easier path to take!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I have kinda given up on it. I still Check now then to see if any companies got anything for industrial workers. I think one day it will happen. I see there is one company that makes sport shoes with wide toe box ,and even Olympic weight lifting shoes from squat university.
Maybe not exactly what you ask for, and not quite as ‘hard-core barefoot’ as you might want (but that was always goin to be difficult in a safety shoe) but I have found the Birkenstock’s working shoes ’agreeable‘. If you take the original insole out they are 0 drop (I just but a Vivo insole into it) and they do have a roomy toebond as well. The sole is not flexible though, for the protection the shoe needs to give as a safety shoe. So not optimal, but it does work for me way better than ‘traditional’ safety shoes.
@@believeinjesus8300 Maybe not exactly what you ask for, and not quite as ‘hard-core barefoot’ as you might want (but that was always goin to be difficult in a safety shoe) but I have found the Birkenstock’s working shoes ’agreeable‘. If you take the original insole out they are 0 drop (I just put a Vivo insole into it) and they do have a roomy toebox as well. The sole is not flexible though, for the protection the shoe needs to give as a safety shoe. So not optimal, but it does work for me way better than ‘traditional’ safety shoes.
I will take leather over Gore-Tex linings any day. If you think leather takes time to dry, Gore-Tex lined boots take forever and when you get water in a Gore-Tex boot, it's wet for the rest of your trip. The nice part of Gore-Tex is if you can keep them dry, they'll stay that way most times unless there's a leak in the membrane. However, side by side, leather boots dry out much faster and after 12 years in the PNW of North America in torrential rains and multi-day to multi-week trips, I'll take the leather version every time.
I bought a pair of the Magna Forest ESC (just because I don’t like my ankle to be tied in a shoe) and after many day and multi-day hikes in the Alps in Italy I can absolutely confirm everything you said in the video. They are super comfortable and the sole is better than everything I’ve tried so far, including boots from very famous brands with very famous rubber under them. I hope Vivo will keep making high quality shoes for our hikes!
Yes I too have the Magma Forest ESC as well for the reason you mention. I bought these rather than the regular model because of the Michelin soles, which look like they will last a lifetime. They are are very comfortable. I initially had to take out the insoles because of a somewhat tight fit. But now that the leather has stretched, I've put them back in for a better fit. Unfortunately here in Australia, they didn't come with the waterproofing wax conditioner - that's something I paid extra for. Perhaps a little off topic, but my most comfortable shoes are the Lems Primal 2. However the Primal 2 soles could be improved - mine have worn down quickly from just regular day to day "get about" use, not from trail hiking. If they used a more aggressive lugged Michelin sole like the Vivo ESC, that would be a fabulous combination. I would then use them as an alternative hiking/trail running shoe in drier conditions not requiring a waterproof/water resistant boot.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I just got the Primus Trail Knit FG in EUR 44 but a day or so ago I ordered the Forest ESC in 45 EUR online. How does the Forest ESC run for size. Do you think 45 EUR Forest ESC would be too big for me? I usually run a EUR 45/UK 10.5 with other shoes. Also, How do you find the Tracker Forest compares to the Magna forest (Pros/cons)? Do you still believe the Forest Tracker is the superior hiking boot? (I.e. for most/all hiking conditions? Thanks for the great content!
Great review, but I think to make the boot perfect it needs a toe rand as when you take them to up a mountain/craggy location they get wrecked from all the scuffs!
Absolutely, you should check out the Tracker All Weather SG's. I have a pair (not yet gotten around to reviewing them) and they are my go to winter mountaineering/scrambling boots.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I had these but the hard rubber on the back would dip into my achilles. I didn’t notice at first on short walks but after long walks i could barely walk for a few hours once I stopped and ached for the rest of the week. Went back after the second time experiencing it. I guess it doesn’t bother you. Love my esc though.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Maybe mention that they aren't for regular people, costing nearly $500. You can get outstanding military boots for half that price, or less.
You are probably the only person to actually show the inside of the boot. Not even their website shows pictures of the inside lining. Which is pretty lame of them on a flagship product.
Man my Tracker Forest IIs ESC in black are awesome. Only been wearing them for 2 days as a busy Dad with a herniated disc and sciatica in Canada. I'm coming from wearing Hokas, Vans and Solomons. Wore the Vivos all day from 7 am in a cold ice rink for kids' hockey practice then to a dusty rugged motocross track. Wore them on my full suspension electric skateboard over very rough terrain for 3 hours and it felt like I was surfing barefoot. Was unseasonably warm for a November day today (23 celcius) and my feet were not too warm or uncomfortable at all. Ended up hiking up a rocky hill to get a better view of my kids motocross practice and enjoyed feeling every rock and the hard dirt. I'm so impressed I bought Vivo kids shoes/boots for my kids and trying to convince my wife to switch.
This is awesome! I loved using them out in Canada, insanely versatile which is well suited to the weather conditions you guys get. You may want to invest in some thermal insoles if you haven’t already for when the needle really kicks down though! Hope the kids are enjoying them as much as you are 🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject right on thanks. Yea was thinking the same thing about the thermal inserts. Yea stoked for the kids to be wearing all Vivos for everything (boots, indoor shoes for school, all weather shoe = $$$$) 😆
I am between these boots or the Vivo magna forest sg (same but shorter boots). I mostly hike 10-25c. How have you found wearing these in the summer 25c and over?
I’ve literally just ordered a pair of these boots after watching this and a couple of others this evening. Looking forward to trying them out. Only other barefoot I’ve tried have been my vibram fivefingers, so hopefully these will be much better than them
My impressions, as promised, on this video: So thorough! I appreciate that it's clearly spoken, gives close-up looks at some details, and covers some really useful aspects like actual water performance, temperature-range comfort, and whys of the sole design & function that you don't often see discussed.. including those couple of potential negatives. Well done, man! And my story with these boots: I wanted a barefoot-healthy boot for pasture/property/woodlot work and hikes involving mud or snow. After a few months' learning and comparing, I chose the ESCs for the luggier, more mud-snow tread and the stitched top edge of the soles. Had them now 5 months. Loving them so far. My feet felt at home in them since the first time I slipped 'em on. There's even better ground-shape feel than I expected, especially while not feeling sharpness.. kind of a magical combination. The only trouble so far.. (it was user error) Toward the end of the first real hike a lace-hook on one boot caught the loosened laces on the other and I face-planted on the trailside. No harm done, just slightly bruised cheek, brow, and knee. I am so very thankful it didn't happen earlier, up in the steep rocky stuff!
Thank you, as always, I really appreciate the depth of feedback you give. I know it take a lot of time, so yeah, thank you and I'm really pleased it was a useful video with some good takeways! Think the next review will be on the Primus Lites (also trying to get hold of some freets but they're proving quite tricky to get onto), and I've just put up a video on barefoots in the city. Sounds like these boots have served you as well as they've served me, apart from the unfortunate lace incident. I've heard on the grape vine that there are some more niche boots in the works incl. an alpine, desert and jungle variant. Any that would fit in well with what you tend to do?
This is a great video, and helped me pull the trigger on these boots. Ive been wearing barefoot shoes exclusively for a little over 1.5 years. My new used (revivo) Forest Esc came in today, and I noticed immediately the pinching on the loop metal clasp thing. I added a surgeons knot beyond the pinch point once I found the most comfortable lace tightness, and it kept the laces in a good tension. I thought it worthwhile to share for any others that might feel the metal bite in. 😊
Thanks for the comment and helpful advice, you're the first person I've heard of thats knotted it but sounds like a great solution to the problem! Hope you have many happy hikes with the boots!
Great review. These boots will be my first "barefoot" style footwear. Looking forward to slipping them on and experiencing what the hype is all about. Legit review, brother.
I love when shoe companies use Michelin rubber for their soles. I think more companies should, especially in their winter boots. For those who don’t know (I used to work as a tire technician, so I understand this more in-depth), the reason winter tires work so well compared to summer tires or even all seasons in cold weather is because the rubber compound is much softer. So when the weather starts to get cold enough to start snowing, the rubber in an all season tire or a summer tire will harden even more as they get cold, so regardless of the tread pattern you will lose grip because the hard rubber is no longer conforming to the surface of what it’s trying to grip on to. The rubber in a winter tire will stay very soft in cold and snowy conditions, so they will still have grip. This is why I love Michelin rubber on boots and shoes, because it’s the ability of the rubber compound to stay soft in colder weather that will help prevent you from slipping. The aggressiveness of the lugs and tread of the boots don’t mean as much when the rubber they’re made of become rock hard in the cold weather. I own a pair of Columbia snow boots with Michelin rubber soles that are actually also in the pattern of a winter tire. I am now looking into something zero drop with the same kind of soles (Although it doesn’t HAVE to be Michelin, I would be happy to see more tires companies start doing the same and getting into the shoe market).
Of definitely, the difference of the compound is incredible. As far as zero drop tyre company soled boots go, these are the top of the chain though the Magna Forest ESC's would give them a good run for their money!
I second this. I actually am about to design a barefoot/ minimalist workbook in Chelsea Boot design. Feel it’s an untapped market. I’ve worn a pair from a factory that is oversized to fit my foot. I’ve had a few pairs now as basically my only shoe (apart from wearing sandals or being actually barefoot) I cut the heel off and it’s essentially then just a flat sole with almost no tread. You would think it wouldn’t grip, but due to the rubber quality it grips like you wouldn’t believe on everything except wet and muddy. By why you would wear an unlined pair of Chelsea boots out in pure mud is beyond me. At that point wellies/ hiking boots are your bet. But I’ve been blown away by the rubber on wet tile roofs, concrete, wet wood, decking, etc, the durability of rubber while using my foot as a shovel, the fact I actually use these boots to scramble over and climb rock as I use them as my approach shoes for climbing. It’s been a long time coming but time to make the boot more barefoot compatible and get it to market! :)
I bought them at a local shop after your thorough and detailed review. These are my first ever barefoot boots and they've been great so far. I have a wide forefoot and they fit like a glove first try. I use these everywhere now and no regrets. I was considering buying another pair(deacons) but realized that these cover all bases and I don't need anything else. Thanks for your comprehensive reviews especially addressing possible future issues while covering the positives as well.
This is awesome to read! I’m really to hear my review was helpful and that you’ve had such a great experience with them, looking forward to hearing what you get up to in them 🙌🏽
I have the magna trail esc and can agree that the sole is the best sole for outdoors activities that vivo have. They should definitely use it on more shoes and I sure hope they don't discontinue it any time soon.
Great review! I love my vivos and have the Magna Esc with the same Michelin tread as the Forests. Wore them recently in Finland in -20 but I put a sheepskin insole inside. A tip for the lacing of the Forests (which I also own) I don’t cross the laces over the talus part of the boots - I hook them into them and then straight up to the next eyelet hook without crossing over. This allows more dorsi flexion at the ankle.
That's a cool tip - hadn't thought of that before but will give it a go when I'm next out in them. Very jealous of your cold weather hiking, currently in Indonesia so haven't felt anything below 30 degrees for a few months! 🤣
I am between the forests or your boots the magnas. I like the idea of the shorter magna as may be they are more breathable than the forests especially for summer? I take it you have the leather version rather than the nubuck and how do you find walking in deep water? I am a little worried about the wool liner getting wet
@@HenryKlosok I’d go with the Forests as they’re more versatile overall. Even in the summer they’re breathable for hiking so they are an all year round boot. I regularly walk through wet boggy grassland and deep mud in UK. No water ingress. If you go in water that’s over the top lace area you will get water in though as the gusseted tongue ends at that point. Shallow water is no problem. Best boots I own.
Honestly, really good video. I've been looking into buying these for a while but I had a few questions I've been struggling to find answers for (good example is the lump behind the buckle rubbing on people's ankles), and this video pretty much answered all of them.
100% on not rolling ankles. I used to always have to have hiking boots with really high supported ankles or else I would roll my ankle on a hike. Once I switched to barefoot shoes, Like you, I have never rolled my ankle. I have come close but had ample time to react and avoid injury. I have the Magna esc boots like yours and absolutely love them.
It's crazy isn't it! Everything would make you think it's 10x more likely to happen, but that extra 'feel' for when you are losing traction makes such a difference!
I've owned these for a year and I love them! I would say though, as my first venture into "barefoot", the connection with the ground comes at the price of aching feet on big days out because these don't cushion like conventional shoes. That's not a problem with the shoe, it's a problem with my feet not being conditioned properly. I've found the more I've used them, the less sore my feet are as (I assume) my feet adapt and become stronger.
Absolutely, it takes time to develop the tolerance. I’ve actually just put up a video on toe spacers which apparently can accelerate that process (spending some more time using them before agreeing/disagreeing), could be worth checking out!
They appear to be amazing boots. I've had Luna & Bedrock sandals for 12 years now and love them. But these boots would be a great cooler weather option.
I could walk for ours on end in the rain with my Lowa army boots, without my feet getting wet. Unfortunately, I could do not the same with my Trackers, despite being treated with nikwax. So, my ideal for me would be that Lowa makes a zero drop boot with a wide toe box. I never minded the weight of the Lowa boots so no issue there for me. Haven't given up on the Trackers yet, cleansed them thoroughly and gave them a good old fashioned vegetable grease layer to be tested. Hope this helps or my search goes on. Pity the likes of Lowa and Meindl haven't picked up on the zero drop wide toe box 'revolution' , with their knowledge I bet they would beat all of the new 'barefoot' shoes brands where hiking boots are concerned. Thanks for this video and don't get me wrong, the trackers are great for hiking and they fit like a glove. Will be using them for dryer days should the newly applied vegetable grease waterproofing fail.
Let me know how you get on with your vegetable oil remedy! Sadly there always seems to be a compromise somewhere, Lowa may be waterproof but you definitely couldn’t bend them in half, similarly the Vivos are flexible and wide, but haven’t quite cracked fully waterproofed yet. Fingers crossed the veg grease works though 🤞🏽
I love the boot. Been using it in military service for about a year and it has been amazing. The ankle problem I did have however. But just removed the metal eyelet and got rid of the problem. I would say it is definitely the best true barefoot hiking boot out there. The combination of glue and stitching is always the best too, love them!
Interesting! A few of my mates are military and they’ll spend a lot of time off base training in these or Xeros but will revert to issued gear on exercise or deployment. Did you have any issue wearing them from the health & safety brigade and did you go straight into wearing them on rucks or gradually shift over?
As an amphibious soldier I would say they were great considering we walk on a lot of slippery rocks etc and the groundfeel helps a lot when it is hard to see at night. So I would say they were great for my safety that way. I used barefoot shoes a lot before I started using them in the military and I wouldn't advise going straight into long walks with heavy loads. Gradually build up the strength. I also used them mostly in forest-like terrain and rocks. On long walks on asphalt or harder surfaces, I do prefer a bit thicker sole when carrying heavy loads. @TheBarefootStrengthProject
Great review! This is a badass boot! With regular application of Gilboy's Lanolin and Beeswax leather balsam these boots will hold up to the snow and the wet pretty well! You are correct though in that, if you are wading in icy streams with these they will get soaked and they will take a really long time to dry if you don't have a boot dryer (on the trail).
love using these shoes in the winter. awesome grip and feel and you do slip on ice but on harder snow you usually slip on, these shoes does not. they dont have insulation so they can get cold but just the best i have ever used for grip, feel and comfort.
I just can't watch some reviews, but I really like this one. Thanks a lot for very useful information. I have now one more reason to start my barefoot journey
Depends on the climate and if you were willing to get wet feet. For cold climates, the Tracker Winter SG or new Tracker All Weathers which are both fully waterproofed. In mid-summer where wet shoes will dry quickly, the Primus Trail Knit FG is a personal favourite. Generally if I'm wearing these, I'll take them off for river crossings as they are a pain in the arse to dry
Thanks mate Talking about the sizing,it is a problem getting it right as I live in the bush 400km from anywhere I can try ashore on so the guide is a must cheers
At the risk of getting my balls busted for being wrong, I’ve found these run bang on, if your normally wear a 45, go for that… hopefully you don’t have a long return drive 😉. Also CLEM10 will get you 10% off if you do bite the bullet 🙌🏽
Great review! Definitely looks like a great all-around hiking boot! Bit of a random one but what top are you wearing? Always on the hunt for minimal tech-tops.
I tried them this week and unfortunately I have to send them back for a reason. The pros: As soon as I put them on I felt that they are very comfortable, the toe has good space, the leather of the shoes is very soft and flexible, it seems to wear a pillow,, I think they are the most comfortable I have ever tried. Neutral: the ankle support is a little too high for me, if I lace up all the way up the restriction of movement bothers me a bit, but if I lace up halfway they still feel comfortable enough. Cons: This is the reason why I decided not to keep them. under the heel, walking you can feel the spur of the Michelin sole, which compared to other soles is very big and annoying. I feel like I'm walking with a big stone stuck under my heel and every time I put it down I feel its pressure. for this reason I think that walking some hours could hurt or be very annoying. with the other vivo soles it doesn't happen to me, only with this one.
Mine are coming in the mail soon but thank you for the review on them. Gonna give the the city breakin and then trailhead stuff I’m older and prefer bare. Had a pair of beach toed shoes had to add a doctor shcoll’s heal insert. But the most comfortable type of summer shoe I’ve every known. So I’m gonna give the low cut a chance and then buy the boot versions. Wonder if a puncher proof insoles wood work too. I’m kinda heavy and walk very hard. Not a spring chicken anymore. In my fifties so might need just a little extra support. But. Thank you for telling me to buy the thermal insert installation. That will have to be shipped from over seas. A long delay again. But it might be worth it. SEMPER FI
Hopefully it will be! Re: puncture resistance, I've never had an issue with anything getting through the rubber sole (it's very durable!), hopefully you have the same experience when yours arrive.
I have these boots. I'm a gardener and wear them for work. Mowing, sometimes all day, gives a very high step count. Kept a record of my step count on my phone app. Since the end of May up up till now I'm approaching two million steps. My issue with them is they're the only boots I've ever experienced bruising on the soles of my feet. To off set that, I've put in flexible steel safety insoles and sport shock absorbing insoles. Not 100% effective but better than no insole. Not the true barefoot intention but they're my boots. As for the waterproofing, easily the best leather boot to keep your foot dry in long wet grass or really hot sweaty conditions. But remember to use the Renapur wax. I've taken the lacing out of the lowest eyelets to allow greater foot spread, and never use the upper hooks. Slack lacing is definitely more comfortable. Grip, the best of any previous boots worn. Interested to see how they perform if we get a cold winter this year. Cheers, Chris in Cornwall.
Bloody hell Chris! 2 million is a very impressive step count since May, how’s the tread looking? Steel insoles sound like a good call for increasing the shock absorbency and very much agree on the necessity of Renapur wax, definitely makes or breaks the boot! Have you thought about trying again without any of the additional insoles now your foot has had time to adjust more to barefoot wear?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Been doing this for years. Plenty of other gardeners will be found just the same. Just spend your working days strimming and mowing etc and it soon adds up. Never knew my step count, untill my kids showed me the app on my phone this year. Surprised me at how many it added up to Was 1.9 mil at the middle of October. Took off 10% to realistically allow for wearing other shoes. But now the Middle of November, so, haven't done the maths, but will be approaching that magic figure. I have tried without the insoles, had to put them back in. Also needed as when cutting thorn hedges, thorns would come through into my foot. Wearing wellies today, digging out agapanthus, very muddy. Tread wear very good and lots left by mid October, then had to send first pair back to Vivo for a replacement boots as the inside of the heel reinforcement started to break up and dig holes in my ankle. Not ideal. New pair sent back to me with no issues or delay, which is nice. Cheers again.
Hi Chris! I’m also a gardener/farmer who wears them as work boots, and have the same issue with the heel reinforcement breaking. Curious (before I order a second pair): did your replacement pair hold up ok in the longer run?
@@dreamtigers Nope. But this time they haven't dug holes in my heels, so I haven't worried about it. Also, having just gone through a Cornish winter they've proven to be the dryest and gripyest boots I've ever had at work, and during a memorable trek across a very boggy Bodmin moor. Feet are dry, the soles haven't split and the tread is showing some sign of wear, but nothing excessive. Definitely ordering another pair when this current pair eventually expire. Now stopped for a mid morning Kelly Kettle coffee.
I was an early adopter of Vivo Barefoot and had a pair of Evo's that lasted 9 years, so, Fantastic. A couple of years ago I replaced them and within a month stitching was coming undone and the my toe broke through. I researched and found out the originators had sold the company. It seemed to me like the quality was way below the originals.
9 years is unreal! Definitely a shame about your most recent experience with them though, what model did you have the issue with and did you send them back to Vivo to be replaced? I hadn't heard anything about them being sold, to my knowledge and having just looked into it, it seems to still owned and operated by the founders though they have done some funding rounds to help with the expansion of the brand?
I wonder if that's why they're so expensive now. I have 4 pairs if vivos, I haven't bought a new pair for 6 years because they last so long. But they're outside my price range now.
Love the review! I’ve been in Altra shoes for a while now and I don’t think I’ll go back to shoes that aren’t zero drop. I’ve been doing a lot of research between your videos and others about the benefits of zero drop and barefoot style shoes and I’m ready to start the transition and get a pair of Vivobarefoot boots. I’ll stick with Altra as far as sneakers go for the time being for city use, but for the Vivos I was thinking a more boot style like this pair. Right now I have a pair of Thorogood steel toe boots as my work/winter boots and they are just killing me. My job doesn’t require steel toe anymore as I’m not in the field as much, so I just need something more than a sneaker, but not as bulky as a traditional work boot. I like to hike with my friends and wife as a hobby, mostly mud/grassy/dirt terrain where I’m at with some rocky terrain but not much. And the temps rarely get below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 Celcius). The Tracker All Weather SG aren’t available where I’m at, would you say that these are the next best Vivobarefoot options for boots in the cold weather? Hope you see this and looking forward to more reviews and other useful information about strengthening my feet!
Thank you Andrew, I appreciate it! Though the tracker all weather SG’s are awesome, I think they could be overkill for the conditions you’re describing, IMO these would definitely be the best option out there, I can’t fault them so am pretty confident you’ll have a great experience with them. Appreciate the ongoing support and look forward to hearing how you get on 🙌🏽 P.s. code GT10 will get you 10% off at checkout 🚀
Nice video. I didn’t know these needed to be waxed. I bought these about 3 weeks ago for work. I needed tough shoes because winter’s approaching and I needed rugged soles. I feel like I can climb and just feel everything and I’m more oriented. Plus they feel like a glove not a shoe. If I had to recommend a show it would be these. I just need good wax now.
Thanks! They should serve you well and definitely know what you mean about grip and ground feel. With some high quality wax - these boots will serve you for a long time 🙌🏽
Ive had these for 4 month and put well over 300km on them. Ive just done a 50k trek through rainforest with nonstop rain.The grip is phenomenal in wet mood,wet roots and rock. Waterproofness of the leather lasted about 1 hour with freshly waxed boots.So i treked for 45km with wet feet. These are by far the most comfiest boots wet that i have ever worn.Feet stayed healthy the whole way with zero blisters or rubbing. Vivo definitley got this boot right for me. I will definitley buy another pair once i have destroyed them.
45km in sopping boots doesn’t sound like a good laugh but I have to agree, when they have saturated out for me they’re a dream by comparison to a lot of the others I’ve had in the past! Re: another pair, I’ve heard unconfirmed rumours of a rainforest boot being on the hit list which could be pretty sweet!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject No wet boots over that distance and terrain in my scarpas would of been pretty damaging to my feet.The Vivo's literally moulded to my feet. I Was also very surprised at how quick the fluro mesh inner dried.I was expecting a long time due to the supple leather not breathing. They was worth every penny for me to get me out of a wet rainforest in comfort and with healthy feet.If they do bring out a rainforest version i will definitley buy them to test.Most of my hiking off trail is done in rainforest 👍
I loved how they hiked on trail! The upper & soles are great. The laces are nice. Great for muck & mud hikes in fall/winter/spring in the PNW. They feel so good on my feet, I tend to walk through the soft mud and leaves instead of the packed trail. Vivobarefoot is great company and the cost of returns is only $10 in shipping from US. Unfortunately, I returned two of these in a row, because the eyelets kept coming off when I tightened the laces for a snug fit. 😢 I instead purchased the Magna Forest ESC, other shoe that has same Michelen sole. Anyone else have a similar issue with the eyelets coming off on Tracker Forest ESC or Magna Forest ESC?
I had the same issue. While tightened the micheline soled magnas I ripped the eyelets out twice and did decide to try a different model. Got tracker FG with insulated soles and waterproofing. And the eyelets did not come off.
Great review! I've been using various barefoot shoes for probably 10 years by now. They've really come into their own since I found out I had arthritic big toes and hallux limitus. All the "foot experts" recommended rigid shoes to protect my toe joints. I thought that was rubbish. I figured that just as with my back problems, if I built up the muscles in my feet, that would protect my joints. So, upside of barefoot shoes is that not only do they make me walk better and have eliminated the pain in my big toe joints, but since I now have a more natural gait, low and behold, my back pain has also nearly disappeared!. What made me smile about your review is that I've just ordered a pair of these boots, having found them reduced in price. Yay!! I live in the Apennines in Italy and walk and hike a lot with my 2 dogs. We can be in the forest one day, up a mountain the next, crossing streams and all sorts. I've been wearing a competitor's hiking boot for the past 2 years and although they are super-comfy, they let in the water like no one's business. There are also some quality issues. I'm hoping these Vivos will be the answer to these problems and I can't wait for them to arrive. Great job!. Oh and by the way, in spite of sometimes only wearing barefoot trail shoes on hikes, I've also never once twisted my ankle!!
Thank you Wendy 🙌🏽. Hopefully they fit the bill for you, definitely sounds like they’ll have their work cut out for them where you are - just make sure to keep them waxed and the water shouldn’t be an issue 🙌🏽. Look forward to hearing how you get on, all the best C/C
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Replacement pair arrived. Can't wait to put them through their paces. A fine looking boot, I must say, and as predicted, super comfy.
Great review! Mine date from September 2021 and still going well in all conditions. I also have the normal Trackers, but they are not comparable and less durable.
Great review. Been doing barefoot shoes for about a year and a half now. Love it. Mostly have Xero shoes and they're great. But been wanting a taller hiking boot. Just recently heard about the Vivo's. So this was a very helpful review.
Thank you and that’s great to hear! I’ve found them to be top tier within the barefoot space, I’d definitely recommend taking a punt on these boots, if you do, code CLEM10 will get you 10% off 🙌🏽
Not sure how urban your day to day environment is, but I've just put up a video on the drawbacks of Barefoot shoes in the city I thought may be up your street 🙌
I have a pair of Vevos and bought two pairs of Xeros when they had their recent sale. I have to say for hiking, I choose the Vevos every time. I love the sole and the inside of the shoe is more comfortable for me. The sloppy wide fit took some getting used to (Xeros fit more like a regular gym shoe) but the flexibility and grip of the Vevos is far superior. I will be buying a pair of these boots for the fall/winter to replace my Keens.
Having owned for about 2.6yrs - and still own - a pair of Tracker FG's, I am very disappointed with the continual sole separation. From what I have read this is a fairly common problem. I have found the Joe Nimble's (with the Michelin sole) and the all Leather Freet Ibex to be superior boots with superb ground feel and grip as well as water resistance. When comparing the price of Vivo's to Freet's; If Vivo have not fixed the sole separation issue I would stay well away.
Hey John, Is the sole separation happening on your Tracker FG's or on these, the ESC's? I ask as I've had a couple of instances of sole separation (localised to the toe 'flex point' but not yet ever progressing beyond that), namely on the Trail FG and the old model Magna FG's but have found since the introduction of the stitched soles (like on these, the ESC's) the problem has subsided somewhat. I'd put it down to a combination of the flexible body of the shoe with the thicker than normal sole used on the hiking/trail iterations as the 'lites' with the purely glued sole seem to be exempt from this issue. Would be interested to hear your thoughts. I've also been onto freet about getting a hold of their boots to review but as yet no luck - fingers crossed that will change as I've heard nothing but good things!
SOLD! Clem, I've just ordered a pair of these (they weren't accepting your discount code, I think because the shoes were reduced on their site), they look fairly cool. I've been through a few pairs of Vivobarefoot shoes previously and thought I wouldn't bother with them again, they weren't very durable in my experience, seams busting, soles wearing out too quickly. I also am not a fan of their logo and how the plaster it on some of their models. I like the sound of these though, I'll let you know how I get on!
That’s awesome, great to hear Shane (although a shame the code couldn’t be used on top of the discount 😆😆), look forward to hearing how you get on with them and hopefully they live up to my reviewed expectations 🙌🏽🙌🏽
Thanks for the review. Especially describing the features of the sole. I've just bought some rather than the tracker. 25% off today so 'only' £165 quid. Looking forward to trying them out.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject haha Mrs bought them for Xmas for me so can't get them dirty. They have tackled the lounge and the stairs with style so far though. I'm looking forward to getting them dirty
1. I have used a standard hand cream for construction shoes. The oil disappears quick enough so this should not be a problem if someone does not have access to fancy shoe conditioners. Q: can you stretch your fingers in these shoes? I am asking because I am looking for good mobility when going down hills. I am looking for new hiking shoes and I am tired of knee pain caused by stiff shoes that do not allow my feet to work. I mostly worry about rocks inside my shoes 😃 I already use flat shoes daily so transition for hiking should not be as hard as some people make it.
Great review. Was looking at these boots earlier this week. My main reservation is how the thinner sole copes on very stony paths. Just done the South Downs Way and my feet got battered (wearing trail runners with very thick stiff soles). Look forward to your feedback. 👍
I think in large part it will come down to personal tolerance! If this is your first foray into barefoot shoes then something like the South Downs way could definitely be a bit much however for smaller full day or 2-day projects even a bone stock beginner would fair quite well. Though still zero drop and with traditional barefoot soles, the thick lugs on these take away from the discomfort you may expect from a thinner soled shoe. Personally I’ve used less forgiving variants on hikes up to 5 days and though you get a lot of feedback, the foot does quickly adapt. Worth a punt in my opinion!
It's definitely a factor to consider. These were my first "barefoot" shoes and you definitely feel a lot more of the ground and those pesky "sniper rocks"! The benefit, of course, is more grip and control, and that was a massive help on a recent rocky hike in Wales. I have noticed as I use them more, my feet tolerate rocks and general distance better as (I guess) they adapt and become stronger.
If you have problems with pain through those massive michelin soles + insoles, you have VERY weak feet and that's normal if you've been wearing regular shoes/boots all your life. Your feet can get to a point where massive stones are just a massage, even in trully barefoot shoes (which those aren't). Keep at it and then you'll realize how little cushion our feet actually need.
As someone who walks actually barefoot an awful lot (but not each winter for 4 months or so. It does take a couple of months each year for your feet too adapt to being contorted back and forth as it adapts to the stones under load. I think the reward is worth the payoff. I mean if you want your feet to remain healthy till you die and you don’t live in a climate where you can realistically be barefoot all year round, you’re gonna have to put up with an it of bedding in each spring. It’s the same concept for you going from a standard hiker to these. It will put more training wear on your foot, and it will be worth it!
Recently I've been tripping and almost rolling my ankle often, but I've got good flexibility/strength and I'm fast on my feet so nothing has broken, yet. After some months of on-off investigations, I decided to order these boots as my first barefoot shoe. Curious to see if it helps my recently developed clumsiness. My guess is that the thick sole on most timberlands is the cause of this clumsiness.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject So far so good, took them on some pretty difficult wet and rocky paths and the grip is amazing. They do benefit from some break-in but overall I can't complain, 2 days on the mountain and didn't have any blisters or soreness apart from what you would expect hiking all day. I was surprised by the total lack of lower back pain, which I usually get from walking long hours. They're my first but definitely not my last pair of barefoot vivos I buy.
Great video thanks! Why would Vivo not make a tracker 2 with the same upper material but this grip? The tracker 2 is waterproof but awful grip, this shoe needs to be treated and not waterproof 😢
I'd be interest to hear your thoughts as you mentioned on a winter mountaineering boot that is at the least barefoot shaped. I can't find anything. Obviously it would need to be a bit stiffer for technical terrain. I like to scramble and the thin sole just dosent cut it. I've been using Altra all weather's to scramble and they've been good but for full winter conditions I'm still not sure... Personally I love these ESC boots too. My biggest complaint is that it needs a rand to protect the leather round the toe box mainly.
You should check out the Tracker All Weather SG's. I have a pair (not yet gotten around to reviewing them) and they are my go to winter mountaineering/scrambling boots. They're stiffer than the Forest ESC's, with a rand and more insulation for winter work. I suspect they would tick quite a few of your boxes!
Dudeeeeee. Your vids have been selling me on vivo… i just found a used pair of the green tracker forest esc for next to nothing ( I’ve bid on them *fingers crossed* ).. yet I have a used pair of PRIMUS trail delivering today. Lol You really know how to sell these, mate!!!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject it did!!! i should get them by next week. super cheap almost nothing, not used much and they're the gray-green color. Ive worn my Primus Trail all this week after wearing some of those Goat grip sock shoes for a while at the gym, I had zero problems transitioning. Im ready and will never buy any other shoes now lol. The goat grip socks are actually not bad. I would still feel weird hiking in those lol but in the gym and doing yoga they’re great
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject goat grip sock shoes were the ones I ended up getting to transition into vivos. They’re actually not bad. A good temporary shoe, I know I’ll wear those out super fast.
I bought the Magna FG and my sister got the Magna Forest ESC. After our most recent trip, I’m going to get the Magna Forest ESC; she said the same things about the outsole and they are super comfortable. I like the Magna FG for more casual wear and light hikes, but they are not as good for longer hikes I found.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject upper peninsula Michigan, I try to go as many times a year I can, and usually a vacation out west. I was just in Zion, Bryce Canyon, and a few others. Im thinking of going back in a couple years to camp. I haven’t traveled out of the US, because there’s still so much to see here, and km hoping to move to Colorado or Utah in a few years; that way I can hike as much as I want.
@TheBarefootStrengthProject thanks for the video, I'm looking to purchasing these boots but also looking in to the manga forest ESC, how you decide between these 2?
Great question and tough choice, the magna are lower cut so better suited to shorter/day hikes where you're not walking through thick brush. The Tracker Forest being a bit taller lends itself better to longer hikes where you want a bit more protection/durability. Hope that helps, but not matter what, both are great boots!
Be interested to hear your thoughts comparing these to the Freet Ibex? Been weighing up which of these to go for, but haven't seen a good comparison yet. Always found Freet to be simpler & maybe not as aesthetically appealing/stylish as Vivo's but generally better in function / comfort / durability.
It’s a great question and honestly I haven’t been able to get hands on with the FREET Ibex yet. I sent them a message on Instagram after seeing your comment to try and get hold of some, if I do then I’ll do a comparison review and let you know 🙌🏽
The only thing I would consider is whether the soles of the Ibex have been glued or stitched on to the upper. From photos, it looks like the Ibex soles have been glued, though I could be wrong. These Vivo's have stitched on soles like the Magmas. I have two pairs of Freet shoes - the Bootee and the Motus. Though I really like both and find them very comfortable with excellent ground feel, I've found that the soles on one of my Motus shoes has started to separate in two places. The Motus are a soft leather shoe. My Bootee boots (synthetic) on the other hand have had much more use and there is no sign of the soles separating - they also have glued on soles.
Hey man, love your videos I was just wondering f how these compare to the TRACKER DECON FG2 JJF shoes? Sorry if it was covered in the video or already mentioned just wondering which ones you would choose given the choice
Thank you. The JJF Decons are definitely a pretty boot, but for serious off road application you cannot beat the Tracker Forest ESC's. There's a full review of the Decons (including how they compare to the Forest ESC's) here: ruclips.net/video/676tF-p-DLM/видео.html
Really well tought trough review. Did u wear toe socks? did u experiment with different lacing setup? bottleneck ect. Will they tear fast if only wear on concrete? I work in security and all black boot is a demand, so i figured out a order this one for the natural movement benefit.
Great review! I’m a 47 in Primus Lite 3, Scott and Borough. But I’m a 48 in Tracker 2 FG. What size would you suggest for these? I have always had size issues with Vivo. Thanks!!
Nice review however I've found very uncomfortable on my achilies :( same as the other vivo boots- trackers. Sucks as otherwise they are great. I have only worn vivos for years, and run 50k a week in their trainers. My wife doesn't have this problem so gave to her as both size 45. I think I read its a common problem, however can't remember where. I've never experienced in other boots.
Hey T.E - thank you! And that's interesting, is it a friction based thing (the ankle support of the boot rubbing on the achilles tendon)? Either way I'm pleased your wife is able to get use out of them!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject no like a digging in thing with each step- worse when going quicker. I guess because they are low cut or something. Thanks for replying!
I tried these 1.5y ago and I noticed that I felt the lugs on the outer edge put pressure on my foot when I'd walk. I only tested them indoors and found them quite uncomfortable.
Now that I've found you travel week to week, I have a very important question to you. If you could only take 2 vivos with you, which ones would they be? Now, second question: If you could only take 2 vivos with you, and wanted one to be semi fashionable, which ones would you take?
Two very important questions and something I've spent a lot of time thinking about as I gear up for a couple of years in the tropics. For ultra reliability and versatility it would have to be the Tracker Forest ESC x Primus Trail Knit FG, which will be the only 2 shoes I take on my next adventure. If I cared about being semi-fashionable and was willing to sacrifice a little versatility then it would be the new Gobi Boot (hi-top w/ the stitched soles) x Primus Trail Knit FG.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Perfect answer! My plan for high top is either the new Gobi or Tracker esc- If I went with the Gobi, I was planning to do tracker decon low for the low top. Would you still choose primus trail knit? I loved my classic tracker so much I felt if I had that in a low top it would make up for the Gobi’s lack of hike ability if I ever needed some extra grip
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject So right now I am at: 1. tracker esc 2. tracker decon low 1. gobi leather stitched 2. tracker decon low or swapping out the decon low for the primus knit. I watched your review of the decon low and am worried about the heel blister though
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject will do. I’m actually in email talks with Vivo at the moment regarding their quality control specifically talking about my Primus Trail Knit FG. I absolutely love these shoes but the sole is starting to come away from the upper where the shoe flexes and have only been wearing them for three weeks. Their customer service is fantastic but for such a premium price I expect premium quality and last. I’m wondering your experience of these forest ESC and their quality control?
@@simonverrill do you mean the part where the toe flexes? If so, I had the exact same issue in a couple of their shoes (the trail FG & trail all weathers). In the end it turned out to be purely aesthetic and didn’t impact the function over many happy miles, though I agree it does seem like an oversight.
@@simonverrill further to that, the quality of the Forest ESC’s has been top notch. The sole has separated a little on the flex point however it’s a stitched sole so it’s purely a small aesthetic flaw in my eyes. Hope that helps!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject when my foot is at full flex under weight where that leather edging on the upper meets the sole. It’s not bad but I was assuming it was going to grow. They have offered me a replacement but I’m thinking it’s going to do the same thing. And I wonder if it’s simply that leather material type being too stiff against the gum sole. Not sure. If I could upload a picture I would show you but it sounds like you know what I mean. Maybe it won’t get any worse 🤔
Been wearing these as work boots for the last 4/5 months-coming from AKU, Altberg, Lowa, but using mostly Xero and Vans for the gym and casual. The fit on these is perfect for me-I have wide feet-so going to get some vivos for the gym. The Magna ESC has the same sole-do you reckon it would work?!
It should do but I'd opt for the Primus lite or Primus trail knit as gym shoes over the Magna, although I have seen some top level powerlifters using them on mind-blowing lifts so definitely not a bad shout!
I’ve been wearing the Forest ESC as work boots for over a year and love them, but the Magna version felt too floppy around my ankles, so I returned them. One downside of the Forest shoe that I’ve found, is that the inner leather lining around where your heel slips in (so the inside of the back of the shoe) started ripping within a month or two. Under that is a rigid plastic enforcement that breaks off in bits and pieces. Doesn’t bother me too much, but seems like a construction flaw
Vivo receive the best sole ever from michelin… and they put ot on a super weird and specific range of shoes… non-waterproof shoe for cold days, swimrun niche shoe, and a leisure suede shoe… why not a normal nice low hiking shoe for spring summer with goratex?
Totally agree - it is on the Magna Forest ESC (any shoe they do with ESC has the Michelin sole) which is about as close to fitting your bill as they get. Personally I’d love to see it on the Primus Trail Knit but for now, looks like we have to keep on waiting!
I honestly don’t know, mine are still going 2/3 years on. The rubber will be the failure point but if you live in the UK or (now) the USA you can send them back to VivoBarefoot to be refurbished. They’ll bring them back to as new condition and you’ll be good to go again
Thanks man, appreciate it! Just getting into it and learning with each video so hopefully the quality keeps going up and up! TBH probably the tracker decon, vivo really levelled up the game with its aesthetic but it really comes down to your personal preference and style
Have you tried revivo? I know for a "great value" it's $175, I believe. Would you recommend buying reused shoes or to buy them new? And for hiking are there any cons to buying used?
Great question - I've sent a couple of shoes off to them (for them to refurbish and resell) but I've never bought from there myself as I like my 'fresh out the box' shoes, I'll have to give it a go at some point. For hiking, it really comes down to trust in the refurbishment. The more wear the materials have had the more likely they are to fail you at a critical moment, but as far as I know, Vivo are very thorough and take a lot of pride in refurbishing their footwear so I would both buy it and trust it. Let me know if you get anything from them, I'd love to hear what you think!
Thank you! Unreal in my experience, I’ve worn them all over the world and have never had anything get through their soles, even on the 3mm sole of the Primus Lites 🫡
A question about the durability of the Michelin sole please.. I've had these for a few months and only hiked in them 3 times for a total of around 25 miles. The sole is already showing significant wear for that distance, several lugs in the heel and forefoot area have those topographic grooves in the lugs worn off so the lug is smooth with no grooves and a couple of the lugs have about 1mm of rubber worn away. After only 25ish miles, somewhere around 6 or 7 miles on road and the rest on trail and grass. How much wear is on yours? After one year of regular use my pair will be worn completely bare at this rate.
For most of my hiking and daily walking I'd rather have a light breathable shoe / boot that dries inside out extremely fast than something that's waterproof. I just don't want rocks and sand in my shoes to help it dry out quicker.
For sure, the Primus Trail FG's are awesome for that purpose and are my go to 'speed' hiking boot when I'm looking to chomp miles over a few days and CBA with the faff of wet leather!
your weak to hot temperatures. But it is probably not your fault. most likely just were you are born. and even if you are mean Celsius, that's not even hot, 33 Celsius is nice and a bit too hot but not a problem in my house with no air-conditioning and broken fan. What I'm trying to say is thanks for the review! and -1 Celsius an't cold to me ether. (I don't like wearing socks and shoes for more than a hour. so breathable shoes are a must, I might be rude here, so I don't apologize. But I genially appreciate the review, I'm looking at a lot of review and so far you 'res is the best
Haha well, I'm from England where it's famous for being cold so you're probably very right! But I'm now in Bali so my training to become a hot weather ninja is well and truly underway. Thank you for the kind words about my review, I appreciate it - honesty is always appreciated here!
Do you think these would be good for the city? I’m a courier and on a bike all day and thinking about the wet/cold seasons and need something that can get beat up. Don’t need so much waterproofing but something where they’re not going to get immediately soaked and can get beat up
They're tough as old nails if you treat them right (wax up every now and then), well worth a punt just keep in mind the leather will take a while to dry if you do fully saturate it.
One of the eyelets popped out on mine just after the 100 days after little use. It was extremely disappointing, most comfy boots I've ever worn though.
Great video, I have a question for you I just went hiking 48 kilos over two days in the Magna Forest ESC. It was around 23 C temperatures so not too much foot sweat. However, tons of leaves covering the trail and they were wet and got my foot drenched from the moisture on the merino wool tongue. It was terrible. Like my foot was swimming in water. I would think that I would not have the same problem with the Tracker ESC boots? I know the all leather tongue, but the water resistance you know. It took my boots 36 hours to dry out. Glad I didn't have to do another day. I appreciate any guidance you have.
Hey Jeremy, yeah I can imagine that was pretty unpleasant! The Magna Forest ESC’s are brilliant boots but you’re right, any moisture above the sole and it’s straight in. I don’t think you’d have the same problem with these boots as long as you kept them treated. Obviously if the leather is constantly getting saturated with water crossings etc etc it will eventually seep in but for the conditions you’re describing, these boots would be right at home. If you do decide to get them I have a vivo discount code ‘CLEM10’ which will get you 10% off - happy hiking!
Are they suitable for dry grounds and warm places? Because where I live in spring is warm but in summer is really hot. Plus, are the boots comfortable to wear them in the city?
Good wicking socks and loosely laced would be an absolute must in summer but I wear them hiking in Canada over the summer with no issues. If you’re primarily hiking in warm dry areas though, you should consider a low top knitted hiking capable shoe like the Primus trail FG, I’ve done LOTS of heavy hiking in hot climates using those (most recently Mt.Toubkal in Morocco) and they’ve been brilliant
thanks buddy, i loved the in depth review. I actually live in ontario and am looking for a winter boot right now that checks off some boxes. It seems like this boot might be my best option...wont be mountaineering in them but will be taking them out in all the snowy days. I am a delivery driver and wanted something with more traction to avoid slipping on ice. You reckon these will be an excellent fit in that regard? Cheers man!
Honestly I think these would be right up there alongside the Tracker All Weather SG (also Vivobarefoot) which are 100% unfuckable with no matter the weather. The ESC’s you’d need to remember to treat, the all weathers just take abuse, a bit more expensive but worth considering and code GT10 gets you 10% off 🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject okay cool man! I am in Canada and I noticed they dont have the all weather SG's unfortuntely. Just between the tracker 2 and the tracker ESC!
I have zero hfs 2 for road running, primus trail fg for gym and hiking in warm weather and looking for a boot with sg for rain and colder weather. Not sure where to go for this or the magna version. I was thinking the magna would be better for breathability and if its very wet i can have gaiters or tuck my water proofs over trousers in the magna. What do you think?
Brilliant for mountains. They’re minimalist barefoot shoes so the protection is as a result minimalist so you can feel rocks, pebbles etc as you hike, but that in turn is what attracts a lot of people to them as you’re much more aware and a part of of your environment
I bought the Magna Forest Esc since my interest in hiking has gone up as well as my fitness in hiking and I love barefoot shoes and coincidentally bought them during black Friday, so I got them cheaper. Awesome review, it's got me excited to start digging them into the ground!
That’s awesome! I think even at full price they’re unreal value so if you managed to get them at a discount you’re laughing! Look forward to hearing how you get on with them Toemass202 🙌🏽
I was interested in getting these boots for hunting. Ill be hunting NZ Alps next year, do you think they would hold up carrying up to 40kgs of weight and hills?
Sounds like a hell of a trip. I’m 105 dry but with pack and gear often over 130/140kg total. They’ve never flinched and are still going strong so unless you eat a lot of bacon between now and then, they should do just fine.
GT10 = 10% off VivoBarefoot || www.vivobarefoot.com
VivoBarefoot is offering 10% off to all channel subscribers. Use the code GT10 to save!
Hi, thank you for your video!! I tried to buy a pair of Vivobarefoot Winter SG and put the GT20 code at checkout, but the code does not work. Can you help me please.
@@charlesvadnais4983 no worries! Odd - I’ll ask the guys at Vivo and get back to you, hopefully no later than tomorrow!
Hi, just a quick hello to get a feedback from my last message if Vivo respond to you@@TheBarefootStrengthProject
Its not working :(
I so wish they would come out with a work man’s tracker, carbon fiber safety toe , 0 drop, little thicker sole. So tired of 12hr shifts in conventional work boots. Come on vivo.
That would be pretty sweet but also challenging as it’s such a niche market! I wonder if you’d have better luck finding a local shoe maker that can modify them to suit, could be a slightly easier path to take!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I have kinda given up on it. I still Check now then to see if any companies got anything for industrial workers. I think one day it will happen. I see there is one company that makes sport shoes with wide toe box ,and even Olympic weight lifting shoes from squat university.
I want the same thing, perfect for movie sets. Plus mushroom leather, to lead the pack.
Maybe not exactly what you ask for, and not quite as ‘hard-core barefoot’ as you might want (but that was always goin to be difficult in a safety shoe) but I have found the Birkenstock’s working shoes ’agreeable‘. If you take the original insole out they are 0 drop (I just but a Vivo insole into it) and they do have a roomy toebond as well. The sole is not flexible though, for the protection the shoe needs to give as a safety shoe. So not optimal, but it does work for me way better than ‘traditional’ safety shoes.
@@believeinjesus8300 Maybe not exactly what you ask for, and not quite as ‘hard-core barefoot’ as you might want (but that was always goin to be difficult in a safety shoe) but I have found the Birkenstock’s working shoes ’agreeable‘. If you take the original insole out they are 0 drop (I just put a Vivo insole into it) and they do have a roomy toebox as well. The sole is not flexible though, for the protection the shoe needs to give as a safety shoe. So not optimal, but it does work for me way better than ‘traditional’ safety shoes.
I will take leather over Gore-Tex linings any day. If you think leather takes time to dry, Gore-Tex lined boots take forever and when you get water in a Gore-Tex boot, it's wet for the rest of your trip. The nice part of Gore-Tex is if you can keep them dry, they'll stay that way most times unless there's a leak in the membrane. However, side by side, leather boots dry out much faster and after 12 years in the PNW of North America in torrential rains and multi-day to multi-week trips, I'll take the leather version every time.
Solid wisdom right there!
I bought a pair of the Magna Forest ESC (just because I don’t like my ankle to be tied in a shoe) and after many day and multi-day hikes in the Alps in Italy I can absolutely confirm everything you said in the video.
They are super comfortable and the sole is better than everything I’ve tried so far, including boots from very famous brands with very famous rubber under them.
I hope Vivo will keep making high quality shoes for our hikes!
I’ve got a set as well and they’re unreal boots! Brilliant to hear you’ve had the same experience and hope you have many more happy hikes in them 🙌🏽
Yes I too have the Magma Forest ESC as well for the reason you mention. I bought these rather than the regular model because of the Michelin soles, which look like they will last a lifetime. They are are very comfortable. I initially had to take out the insoles because of a somewhat tight fit. But now that the leather has stretched, I've put them back in for a better fit. Unfortunately here in Australia, they didn't come with the waterproofing wax conditioner - that's something I paid extra for.
Perhaps a little off topic, but my most comfortable shoes are the Lems Primal 2. However the Primal 2 soles could be improved - mine have worn down quickly from just regular day to day "get about" use, not from trail hiking. If they used a more aggressive lugged Michelin sole like the Vivo ESC, that would be a fabulous combination. I would then use them as an alternative hiking/trail running shoe in drier conditions not requiring a waterproof/water resistant boot.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I just got the Primus Trail Knit FG in EUR 44 but a day or so ago I ordered the Forest ESC in 45 EUR online. How does the Forest ESC run for size. Do you think 45 EUR Forest ESC would be too big for me? I usually run a EUR 45/UK 10.5 with other shoes.
Also, How do you find the Tracker Forest compares to the Magna forest (Pros/cons)? Do you still believe the Forest Tracker is the superior hiking boot? (I.e. for most/all hiking conditions?
Thanks for the great content!
are they usable on hot days in alps? how is it on a rainy day? is it quickly wet? yes, the sole looks the best i’ve seen for alps. thanks
Me too. Even used it on some via ferratas. There is a limit to them for climbing those, but easier VFs are a blast because of the ground feel.
Great review, but I think to make the boot perfect it needs a toe rand as when you take them to up a mountain/craggy location they get wrecked from all the scuffs!
Absolutely, you should check out the Tracker All Weather SG's. I have a pair (not yet gotten around to reviewing them) and they are my go to winter mountaineering/scrambling boots.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I had these but the hard rubber on the back would dip into my achilles. I didn’t notice at first on short walks but after long walks i could barely walk for a few hours once I stopped and ached for the rest of the week. Went back after the second time experiencing it. I guess it doesn’t bother you. Love my esc though.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Maybe mention that they aren't for regular people, costing nearly $500. You can get outstanding military boots for half that price, or less.
100% I killed mine via rock and brambles scratching them. Also, they need a taller toe box to take pressure of your toe nails
Have you tried the leather balm afterwards? Mine got fairly scratched up but after applying it they mostly disappeared.
You are probably the only person to actually show the inside of the boot. Not even their website shows pictures of the inside lining. Which is pretty lame of them on a flagship product.
Man my Tracker Forest IIs ESC in black are awesome. Only been wearing them for 2 days as a busy Dad with a herniated disc and sciatica in Canada. I'm coming from wearing Hokas, Vans and Solomons. Wore the Vivos all day from 7 am in a cold ice rink for kids' hockey practice then to a dusty rugged motocross track. Wore them on my full suspension electric skateboard over very rough terrain for 3 hours and it felt like I was surfing barefoot. Was unseasonably warm for a November day today (23 celcius) and my feet were not too warm or uncomfortable at all. Ended up hiking up a rocky hill to get a better view of my kids motocross practice and enjoyed feeling every rock and the hard dirt. I'm so impressed I bought Vivo kids shoes/boots for my kids and trying to convince my wife to switch.
This is awesome! I loved using them out in Canada, insanely versatile which is well suited to the weather conditions you guys get. You may want to invest in some thermal insoles if you haven’t already for when the needle really kicks down though! Hope the kids are enjoying them as much as you are 🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject right on thanks. Yea was thinking the same thing about the thermal inserts. Yea stoked for the kids to be wearing all Vivos for everything (boots, indoor shoes for school, all weather shoe = $$$$) 😆
I am between these boots or the Vivo magna forest sg (same but shorter boots). I mostly hike 10-25c. How have you found wearing these in the summer 25c and over?
I’ve literally just ordered a pair of these boots after watching this and a couple of others this evening. Looking forward to trying them out. Only other barefoot I’ve tried have been my vibram fivefingers, so hopefully these will be much better than them
I suspect they’ll blow them out the water! Enjoy and let me know what you think 🙌🏽
First pair of barefoot due tomorrow very excited..
Excellent review chap!
Nice one! Let me know how you get on 🙌🏽
My impressions, as promised, on this video:
So thorough!
I appreciate that it's clearly spoken, gives close-up looks at some details, and covers some really useful aspects like actual water performance, temperature-range comfort, and whys of the sole design & function that you don't often see discussed.. including those couple of potential negatives.
Well done, man!
And my story with these boots:
I wanted a barefoot-healthy boot for pasture/property/woodlot work and hikes involving mud or snow. After a few months' learning and comparing, I chose the ESCs for the luggier, more mud-snow tread and the stitched top edge of the soles.
Had them now 5 months. Loving them so far. My feet felt at home in them since the first time I slipped 'em on. There's even better ground-shape feel than I expected, especially while not feeling sharpness.. kind of a magical combination.
The only trouble so far.. (it was user error)
Toward the end of the first real hike a lace-hook on one boot caught the loosened laces on the other and I face-planted on the trailside. No harm done, just slightly bruised cheek, brow, and knee. I am so very thankful it didn't happen earlier, up in the steep rocky stuff!
Thank you, as always, I really appreciate the depth of feedback you give. I know it take a lot of time, so yeah, thank you and I'm really pleased it was a useful video with some good takeways!
Think the next review will be on the Primus Lites (also trying to get hold of some freets but they're proving quite tricky to get onto), and I've just put up a video on barefoots in the city.
Sounds like these boots have served you as well as they've served me, apart from the unfortunate lace incident. I've heard on the grape vine that there are some more niche boots in the works incl. an alpine, desert and jungle variant. Any that would fit in well with what you tend to do?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I'd need to see them to know :~) I would love to find a barefoot-healthy rubber muck boot.
I love your casual, informative style man. Great job 👍
Thank you Bill 🙌🏽
This is a great video, and helped me pull the trigger on these boots. Ive been wearing barefoot shoes exclusively for a little over 1.5 years. My new used (revivo) Forest Esc came in today, and I noticed immediately the pinching on the loop metal clasp thing. I added a surgeons knot beyond the pinch point once I found the most comfortable lace tightness, and it kept the laces in a good tension. I thought it worthwhile to share for any others that might feel the metal bite in. 😊
Thanks for the comment and helpful advice, you're the first person I've heard of thats knotted it but sounds like a great solution to the problem! Hope you have many happy hikes with the boots!
Great review. These boots will be my first "barefoot" style footwear. Looking forward to slipping them on and experiencing what the hype is all about. Legit review, brother.
Good choice! I’m looking forward to hearing how you get on 🙌🏽
I love when shoe companies use Michelin rubber for their soles. I think more companies should, especially in their winter boots. For those who don’t know (I used to work as a tire technician, so I understand this more in-depth), the reason winter tires work so well compared to summer tires or even all seasons in cold weather is because the rubber compound is much softer. So when the weather starts to get cold enough to start snowing, the rubber in an all season tire or a summer tire will harden even more as they get cold, so regardless of the tread pattern you will lose grip because the hard rubber is no longer conforming to the surface of what it’s trying to grip on to. The rubber in a winter tire will stay very soft in cold and snowy conditions, so they will still have grip. This is why I love Michelin rubber on boots and shoes, because it’s the ability of the rubber compound to stay soft in colder weather that will help prevent you from slipping. The aggressiveness of the lugs and tread of the boots don’t mean as much when the rubber they’re made of become rock hard in the cold weather. I own a pair of Columbia snow boots with Michelin rubber soles that are actually also in the pattern of a winter tire. I am now looking into something zero drop with the same kind of soles (Although it doesn’t HAVE to be Michelin, I would be happy to see more tires companies start doing the same and getting into the shoe market).
Of definitely, the difference of the compound is incredible. As far as zero drop tyre company soled boots go, these are the top of the chain though the Magna Forest ESC's would give them a good run for their money!
I second this. I actually am about to design a barefoot/ minimalist workbook in Chelsea Boot design. Feel it’s an untapped market.
I’ve worn a pair from a factory that is oversized to fit my foot. I’ve had a few pairs now as basically my only shoe (apart from wearing sandals or being actually barefoot) I cut the heel off and it’s essentially then just a flat sole with almost no tread.
You would think it wouldn’t grip, but due to the rubber quality it grips like you wouldn’t believe on everything except wet and muddy. By why you would wear an unlined pair of Chelsea boots out in pure mud is beyond me. At that point wellies/ hiking boots are your bet.
But I’ve been blown away by the rubber on wet tile roofs, concrete, wet wood, decking, etc, the durability of rubber while using my foot as a shovel, the fact I actually use these boots to scramble over and climb rock as I use them as my approach shoes for climbing.
It’s been a long time coming but time to make the boot more barefoot compatible and get it to market! :)
I bought them at a local shop after your thorough and detailed review. These are my first ever barefoot boots and they've been great so far. I have a wide forefoot and they fit like a glove first try. I use these everywhere now and no regrets. I was considering buying another pair(deacons) but realized that these cover all bases and I don't need anything else. Thanks for your comprehensive reviews especially addressing possible future issues while covering the positives as well.
This is awesome to read! I’m really to hear my review was helpful and that you’ve had such a great experience with them, looking forward to hearing what you get up to in them 🙌🏽
I have the magna trail esc and can agree that the sole is the best sole for outdoors activities that vivo have. They should definitely use it on more shoes and I sure hope they don't discontinue it any time soon.
I hope they do and I'm sure there'd be uproar if they discontinued the line! I'm hoping for a Primus Trail ESC sometime soon...
Great review! I love my vivos and have the Magna Esc with the same Michelin tread as the Forests. Wore them recently in Finland in -20 but I put a sheepskin insole inside. A tip for the lacing of the Forests (which I also own) I don’t cross the laces over the talus part of the boots - I hook them into them and then straight up to the next eyelet hook without crossing over. This allows more dorsi flexion at the ankle.
That's a cool tip - hadn't thought of that before but will give it a go when I'm next out in them. Very jealous of your cold weather hiking, currently in Indonesia so haven't felt anything below 30 degrees for a few months! 🤣
I am between the forests or your boots the magnas. I like the idea of the shorter magna as may be they are more breathable than the forests especially for summer? I take it you have the leather version rather than the nubuck and how do you find walking in deep water? I am a little worried about the wool liner getting wet
@@HenryKlosok I’d go with the Forests as they’re more versatile overall. Even in the summer they’re breathable for hiking so they are an all year round boot. I regularly walk through wet boggy grassland and deep mud in UK. No water ingress. If you go in water that’s over the top lace area you will get water in though as the gusseted tongue ends at that point. Shallow water is no problem. Best boots I own.
Honestly, really good video. I've been looking into buying these for a while but I had a few questions I've been struggling to find answers for (good example is the lump behind the buckle rubbing on people's ankles), and this video pretty much answered all of them.
Glad I could help!
100% on not rolling ankles. I used to always have to have hiking boots with really high supported ankles or else I would roll my ankle on a hike. Once I switched to barefoot shoes, Like you, I have never rolled my ankle. I have come close but had ample time to react and avoid injury. I have the Magna esc boots like yours and absolutely love them.
It's crazy isn't it! Everything would make you think it's 10x more likely to happen, but that extra 'feel' for when you are losing traction makes such a difference!
I've owned these for a year and I love them! I would say though, as my first venture into "barefoot", the connection with the ground comes at the price of aching feet on big days out because these don't cushion like conventional shoes. That's not a problem with the shoe, it's a problem with my feet not being conditioned properly. I've found the more I've used them, the less sore my feet are as (I assume) my feet adapt and become stronger.
Absolutely, it takes time to develop the tolerance. I’ve actually just put up a video on toe spacers which apparently can accelerate that process (spending some more time using them before agreeing/disagreeing), could be worth checking out!
Excellent review! Love the language it makes it seem more real lol. Will be buying a pair to replace my Scapa boots .
Thank you! Great choice and look forward to hearing how you get on 🙌🏼
They appear to be amazing boots. I've had Luna & Bedrock sandals for 12 years now and love them. But these boots would be a great cooler weather option.
I could walk for ours on end in the rain with my Lowa army boots, without my feet getting wet. Unfortunately, I could do not the same with my Trackers, despite being treated with nikwax. So, my ideal for me would be that Lowa makes a zero drop boot with a wide toe box. I never minded the weight of the Lowa boots so no issue there for me. Haven't given up on the Trackers yet, cleansed them thoroughly and gave them a good old fashioned vegetable grease layer to be tested. Hope this helps or my search goes on. Pity the likes of Lowa and Meindl haven't picked up on the zero drop wide toe box 'revolution' , with their knowledge I bet they would beat all of the new 'barefoot' shoes brands where hiking boots are concerned. Thanks for this video and don't get me wrong, the trackers are great for hiking and they fit like a glove. Will be using them for dryer days should the newly applied vegetable grease waterproofing fail.
Let me know how you get on with your vegetable oil remedy! Sadly there always seems to be a compromise somewhere, Lowa may be waterproof but you definitely couldn’t bend them in half, similarly the Vivos are flexible and wide, but haven’t quite cracked fully waterproofed yet. Fingers crossed the veg grease works though 🤞🏽
I love the boot. Been using it in military service for about a year and it has been amazing. The ankle problem I did have however. But just removed the metal eyelet and got rid of the problem. I would say it is definitely the best true barefoot hiking boot out there. The combination of glue and stitching is always the best too, love them!
Interesting! A few of my mates are military and they’ll spend a lot of time off base training in these or Xeros but will revert to issued gear on exercise or deployment.
Did you have any issue wearing them from the health & safety brigade and did you go straight into wearing them on rucks or gradually shift over?
As an amphibious soldier I would say they were great considering we walk on a lot of slippery rocks etc and the groundfeel helps a lot when it is hard to see at night. So I would say they were great for my safety that way. I used barefoot shoes a lot before I started using them in the military and I wouldn't advise going straight into long walks with heavy loads. Gradually build up the strength. I also used them mostly in forest-like terrain and rocks. On long walks on asphalt or harder surfaces, I do prefer a bit thicker sole when carrying heavy loads. @TheBarefootStrengthProject
@@willroos98are you in the us military? Because if so, which ones work in uniform?
I have the same boot. Love using them when i get the chance. Best boot purchase I've made in a long time.
They're so good - pleased you've been enjoying them as well!
Great review! This is a badass boot! With regular application of Gilboy's Lanolin and Beeswax leather balsam these boots will hold up to the snow and the wet pretty well! You are correct though in that, if you are wading in icy streams with these they will get soaked and they will take a really long time to dry if you don't have a boot dryer (on the trail).
Couldn't agree more! I'd definitely be taking these off for any river crossings. Got them wet doing the 3 peaks and they took 3 days to dry 🤯
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject wow! Now, that's an adventure!
love using these shoes in the winter. awesome grip and feel and you do slip on ice but on harder snow you usually slip on, these shoes does not. they dont have insulation so they can get cold but just the best i have ever used for grip, feel and comfort.
Hi can you please tell me if the stitches are still in good shape on the Michelin sole
Yep, they’re imbedded so had no issue with them
I just can't watch some reviews, but I really like this one. Thanks a lot for very useful information. I have now one more reason to start my barefoot journey
I appreciate that and I’m pleased you found it useful - I enjoy making them 🙌🏽
Which vivo shoes would you choose for river crossing but still with grip?
Depends on the climate and if you were willing to get wet feet. For cold climates, the Tracker Winter SG or new Tracker All Weathers which are both fully waterproofed. In mid-summer where wet shoes will dry quickly, the Primus Trail Knit FG is a personal favourite.
Generally if I'm wearing these, I'll take them off for river crossings as they are a pain in the arse to dry
Thanks mate
Talking about the sizing,it is a problem getting it right as I live in the bush 400km from anywhere I can try ashore on so the guide is a must cheers
At the risk of getting my balls busted for being wrong, I’ve found these run bang on, if your normally wear a 45, go for that… hopefully you don’t have a long return drive 😉. Also CLEM10 will get you 10% off if you do bite the bullet 🙌🏽
Great review! Definitely looks like a great all-around hiking boot! Bit of a random one but what top are you wearing? Always on the hunt for minimal tech-tops.
I tried them this week and unfortunately I have to send them back for a reason. The pros: As soon as I put them on I felt that they are very comfortable, the toe has good space, the leather of the shoes is very soft and flexible, it seems to wear a pillow,, I think they are the most comfortable I have ever tried. Neutral: the ankle support is a little too high for me, if I lace up all the way up the restriction of movement bothers me a bit, but if I lace up halfway they still feel comfortable enough. Cons: This is the reason why I decided not to keep them. under the heel, walking you can feel the spur of the Michelin sole, which compared to other soles is very big and annoying. I feel like I'm walking with a big stone stuck under my heel and every time I put it down I feel its pressure. for this reason I think that walking some hours could hurt or be very annoying. with the other vivo soles it doesn't happen to me, only with this one.
Mine are coming in the mail soon but thank you for the review on them. Gonna give the the city breakin and then trailhead stuff I’m older and prefer bare. Had a pair of beach toed shoes had to add a doctor shcoll’s heal insert. But the most comfortable type of summer shoe I’ve every known. So I’m gonna give the low cut a chance and then buy the boot versions. Wonder if a puncher proof insoles wood work too. I’m kinda heavy and walk very hard. Not a spring chicken anymore. In my fifties so might need just a little extra support. But. Thank you for telling me to buy the thermal insert installation. That will have to be shipped from over seas. A long delay again. But it might be worth it.
SEMPER FI
Hopefully it will be! Re: puncture resistance, I've never had an issue with anything getting through the rubber sole (it's very durable!), hopefully you have the same experience when yours arrive.
Ive just bought a pair, I have size 14 feet with wide toes so great news thx
Enjoy!
I have these boots.
I'm a gardener and wear them for work.
Mowing, sometimes all day, gives a very high step count.
Kept a record of my step count on my phone app.
Since the end of May up up till now I'm approaching two million steps.
My issue with them is they're the only boots I've ever experienced bruising on the soles of my feet.
To off set that, I've put in flexible steel safety insoles and sport shock absorbing insoles. Not 100% effective but better than no insole.
Not the true barefoot intention but they're my boots.
As for the waterproofing, easily the best leather boot to keep your foot dry in long wet grass or really hot sweaty conditions.
But remember to use the Renapur wax.
I've taken the lacing out of the lowest eyelets to allow greater foot spread, and never use the upper hooks. Slack lacing is definitely more comfortable.
Grip, the best of any previous boots worn.
Interested to see how they perform if we get a cold winter this year.
Cheers, Chris in Cornwall.
Bloody hell Chris! 2 million is a very impressive step count since May, how’s the tread looking?
Steel insoles sound like a good call for increasing the shock absorbency and very much agree on the necessity of Renapur wax, definitely makes or breaks the boot!
Have you thought about trying again without any of the additional insoles now your foot has had time to adjust more to barefoot wear?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject
Been doing this for years.
Plenty of other gardeners will be found just the same.
Just spend your working days strimming and mowing etc and it soon adds up.
Never knew my step count, untill my kids showed me the app on my phone this year. Surprised me at how many it added up to
Was 1.9 mil at the middle of October. Took off 10% to realistically allow for wearing other shoes. But now the Middle of November, so, haven't done the maths, but will be approaching that magic figure.
I have tried without the insoles, had to put them back in. Also needed as when cutting thorn hedges, thorns would come through into my foot.
Wearing wellies today, digging out agapanthus, very muddy.
Tread wear very good and lots left by mid October, then had to send first pair back to Vivo for a replacement boots as the inside of the heel reinforcement started to break up and dig holes in my ankle. Not ideal.
New pair sent back to me with no issues or delay, which is nice.
Cheers again.
Hi Chris! I’m also a gardener/farmer who wears them as work boots, and have the same issue with the heel reinforcement breaking. Curious (before I order a second pair): did your replacement pair hold up ok in the longer run?
@@dreamtigers
Nope.
But this time they haven't dug holes in my heels, so I haven't worried about it.
Also, having just gone through a Cornish winter they've proven to be the dryest and gripyest boots I've ever had at work, and during a memorable trek across a very boggy Bodmin moor.
Feet are dry, the soles haven't split and the tread is showing some sign of wear, but nothing excessive.
Definitely ordering another pair when this current pair eventually expire.
Now stopped for a mid morning Kelly Kettle coffee.
@@dreamtigers
Ps, do you use insoles for better protection?
I was an early adopter of Vivo Barefoot and had a pair of Evo's that lasted 9 years, so, Fantastic. A couple of years ago I replaced them and within a month stitching was coming undone and the my toe broke through. I researched and found out the originators had sold the company. It seemed to me like the quality was way below the originals.
9 years is unreal! Definitely a shame about your most recent experience with them though, what model did you have the issue with and did you send them back to Vivo to be replaced?
I hadn't heard anything about them being sold, to my knowledge and having just looked into it, it seems to still owned and operated by the founders though they have done some funding rounds to help with the expansion of the brand?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject It was another pair of Evo II. I'm certain I read they had been sold.
I wonder if that's why they're so expensive now. I have 4 pairs if vivos, I haven't bought a new pair for 6 years because they last so long. But they're outside my price range now.
Love the review! I’ve been in Altra shoes for a while now and I don’t think I’ll go back to shoes that aren’t zero drop. I’ve been doing a lot of research between your videos and others about the benefits of zero drop and barefoot style shoes and I’m ready to start the transition and get a pair of Vivobarefoot boots. I’ll stick with Altra as far as sneakers go for the time being for city use, but for the Vivos I was thinking a more boot style like this pair. Right now I have a pair of Thorogood steel toe boots as my work/winter boots and they are just killing me. My job doesn’t require steel toe anymore as I’m not in the field as much, so I just need something more than a sneaker, but not as bulky as a traditional work boot. I like to hike with my friends and wife as a hobby, mostly mud/grassy/dirt terrain where I’m at with some rocky terrain but not much. And the temps rarely get below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 Celcius). The Tracker All Weather SG aren’t available where I’m at, would you say that these are the next best Vivobarefoot options for boots in the cold weather? Hope you see this and looking forward to more reviews and other useful information about strengthening my feet!
Thank you Andrew, I appreciate it!
Though the tracker all weather SG’s are awesome, I think they could be overkill for the conditions you’re describing, IMO these would definitely be the best option out there, I can’t fault them so am pretty confident you’ll have a great experience with them.
Appreciate the ongoing support and look forward to hearing how you get on 🙌🏽
P.s. code GT10 will get you 10% off at checkout 🚀
This was convincing and good info. Thanks :) Only wish they had Safety boots for car mechanics/workers
That would be cool! What would you need - just some steel caps?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Yeah, it's mandatory with steel or hard caps at the front
Nice video. I didn’t know these needed to be waxed. I bought these about 3 weeks ago for work. I needed tough shoes because winter’s approaching and I needed rugged soles. I feel like I can climb and just feel everything and I’m more oriented. Plus they feel like a glove not a shoe. If I had to recommend a show it would be these. I just need good wax now.
Thanks! They should serve you well and definitely know what you mean about grip and ground feel.
With some high quality wax - these boots will serve you for a long time 🙌🏽
Just want to say this is an outstanding channel. Excellent review! Using your code on my first pair of Vivos today!
That’s awesome and thank you!
Hot temps of 25 degrees *laughs in Australian* They'll be a nice change from my usual fare of Full leather Lowas in 38 degrees!
Ive had these for 4 month and put well over 300km on them.
Ive just done a 50k trek through rainforest with nonstop rain.The grip is phenomenal in wet mood,wet roots and rock.
Waterproofness of the leather lasted about 1 hour with freshly waxed boots.So i treked for 45km with wet feet.
These are by far the most comfiest boots wet that i have ever worn.Feet stayed healthy the whole way with zero blisters or rubbing.
Vivo definitley got this boot right for me.
I will definitley buy another pair once i have destroyed them.
45km in sopping boots doesn’t sound like a good laugh but I have to agree, when they have saturated out for me they’re a dream by comparison to a lot of the others I’ve had in the past!
Re: another pair, I’ve heard unconfirmed rumours of a rainforest boot being on the hit list which could be pretty sweet!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject No wet boots over that distance and terrain in my scarpas would of been pretty damaging to my feet.The Vivo's literally moulded to my feet.
I Was also very surprised at how quick the fluro mesh inner dried.I was expecting a long time due to the supple leather not breathing.
They was worth every penny for me to get me out of a wet rainforest in comfort and with healthy feet.If they do bring out a rainforest version i will definitley buy them to test.Most of my hiking off trail is done in rainforest 👍
I loved how they hiked on trail!
The upper & soles are great. The laces are nice.
Great for muck & mud hikes in fall/winter/spring in the PNW.
They feel so good on my feet, I tend to walk through the soft mud and leaves instead of the packed trail.
Vivobarefoot is great company and the cost of returns is only $10 in shipping from US.
Unfortunately, I returned two of these in a row, because the eyelets kept coming off when I tightened the laces for a snug fit. 😢
I instead purchased the Magna Forest ESC, other shoe that has same Michelen sole.
Anyone else have a similar issue with the eyelets coming off on Tracker Forest ESC or Magna Forest ESC?
Hey! I personally have never had nor heard of that issue but the Magna Forest ESC's are awesome, hope you have many happy miles in them!
I had the same issue. While tightened the micheline soled magnas I ripped the eyelets out twice and did decide to try a different model. Got tracker FG with insulated soles and waterproofing. And the eyelets did not come off.
Great review! I've been using various barefoot shoes for probably 10 years by now. They've really come into their own since I found out I had arthritic big toes and hallux limitus. All the "foot experts" recommended rigid shoes to protect my toe joints. I thought that was rubbish. I figured that just as with my back problems, if I built up the muscles in my feet, that would protect my joints. So, upside of barefoot shoes is that not only do they make me walk better and have eliminated the pain in my big toe joints, but since I now have a more natural gait, low and behold, my back pain has also nearly disappeared!. What made me smile about your review is that I've just ordered a pair of these boots, having found them reduced in price. Yay!! I live in the Apennines in Italy and walk and hike a lot with my 2 dogs. We can be in the forest one day, up a mountain the next, crossing streams and all sorts. I've been wearing a competitor's hiking boot for the past 2 years and although they are super-comfy, they let in the water like no one's business. There are also some quality issues. I'm hoping these Vivos will be the answer to these problems and I can't wait for them to arrive. Great job!. Oh and by the way, in spite of sometimes only wearing barefoot trail shoes on hikes, I've also never once twisted my ankle!!
Thank you Wendy 🙌🏽. Hopefully they fit the bill for you, definitely sounds like they’ll have their work cut out for them where you are - just make sure to keep them waxed and the water shouldn’t be an issue 🙌🏽.
Look forward to hearing how you get on, all the best C/C
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject They arrived damaged. I'm not impressed.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Replacement pair arrived. Can't wait to put them through their paces. A fine looking boot, I must say, and as predicted, super comfy.
@@wendyhumphreys116 Brilliant! I look forward to hearing how you get on with them!
I wore this boot in Norway for a year, survived some pretty harsh conditions and feet weren't ever cold with good socks.
I’m familiar with the conditions that roll through Norway, that’s no small feat! Did you use the thermal insoles at all?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I'm not sure but I didn't put anything in the boot, down to -20 they were fine although gaters were needed.
Great review! Mine date from September 2021 and still going well in all conditions. I also have the normal Trackers, but they are not comparable and less durable.
Thank you and that’s great to hear! Pleased to hear they’re still going well 🙌🏽
Great review. Been doing barefoot shoes for about a year and a half now. Love it. Mostly have Xero shoes and they're great. But been wanting a taller hiking boot. Just recently heard about the Vivo's. So this was a very helpful review.
Thank you and that’s great to hear! I’ve found them to be top tier within the barefoot space, I’d definitely recommend taking a punt on these boots, if you do, code CLEM10 will get you 10% off 🙌🏽
Not sure how urban your day to day environment is, but I've just put up a video on the drawbacks of Barefoot shoes in the city I thought may be up your street 🙌
I have a pair of Vevos and bought two pairs of Xeros when they had their recent sale. I have to say for hiking, I choose the Vevos every time. I love the sole and the inside of the shoe is more comfortable for me. The sloppy wide fit took some getting used to (Xeros fit more like a regular gym shoe) but the flexibility and grip of the Vevos is far superior. I will be buying a pair of these boots for the fall/winter to replace my Keens.
Having owned for about 2.6yrs - and still own - a pair of Tracker FG's, I am very disappointed with the continual sole separation. From what I have read this is a fairly common problem. I have found the Joe Nimble's (with the Michelin sole) and the all Leather Freet Ibex to be superior boots with superb ground feel and grip as well as water resistance. When comparing the price of Vivo's to Freet's; If Vivo have not fixed the sole separation issue I would stay well away.
Hey John,
Is the sole separation happening on your Tracker FG's or on these, the ESC's? I ask as I've had a couple of instances of sole separation (localised to the toe 'flex point' but not yet ever progressing beyond that), namely on the Trail FG and the old model Magna FG's but have found since the introduction of the stitched soles (like on these, the ESC's) the problem has subsided somewhat.
I'd put it down to a combination of the flexible body of the shoe with the thicker than normal sole used on the hiking/trail iterations as the 'lites' with the purely glued sole seem to be exempt from this issue.
Would be interested to hear your thoughts.
I've also been onto freet about getting a hold of their boots to review but as yet no luck - fingers crossed that will change as I've heard nothing but good things!
SOLD! Clem, I've just ordered a pair of these (they weren't accepting your discount code, I think because the shoes were reduced on their site), they look fairly cool. I've been through a few pairs of Vivobarefoot shoes previously and thought I wouldn't bother with them again, they weren't very durable in my experience, seams busting, soles wearing out too quickly. I also am not a fan of their logo and how the plaster it on some of their models. I like the sound of these though, I'll let you know how I get on!
That’s awesome, great to hear Shane (although a shame the code couldn’t be used on top of the discount 😆😆), look forward to hearing how you get on with them and hopefully they live up to my reviewed expectations 🙌🏽🙌🏽
Thanks for the review. Especially describing the features of the sole. I've just bought some rather than the tracker. 25% off today so 'only' £165 quid. Looking forward to trying them out.
Not cheap but a great price on what is an incredibly versatile boot! Look forward to hearing what you think 🙌🏽
I can't handle the suspense 😆 - how've you found them??
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject haha Mrs bought them for Xmas for me so can't get them dirty. They have tackled the lounge and the stairs with style so far though. I'm looking forward to getting them dirty
I forgot to say that they are brilliant . The sole is incredible.
Thank you for such a real review. I would love to own these boots.
Any time! They’re great boots - if you decide to get them the code GT10 gets you 10% off 🙌🏽
Joe Nimble makes a competitive boot to the ESC -- costs even more (in Aus) if you can believe that. i paid $350 for my Forest ESC which I love.
That’s ridiculous - I’m in Australia soon so may see if I can get hold of some to review!
I just bought them and used your discount code. Thank you for that! :) Can't wait for them to arrive and put them to test. Amazing review!
That’s awesome - really looking forward to hearing how you get on with them, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!
1. I have used a standard hand cream for construction shoes. The oil disappears quick enough so this should not be a problem if someone does not have access to fancy shoe conditioners.
Q: can you stretch your fingers in these shoes?
I am asking because I am looking for good mobility when going down hills. I am looking for new hiking shoes and I am tired of knee pain caused by stiff shoes that do not allow my feet to work.
I mostly worry about rocks inside my shoes 😃
I already use flat shoes daily so transition for hiking should not be as hard as some people make it.
Great review. Was looking at these boots earlier this week. My main reservation is how the thinner sole copes on very stony paths. Just done the South Downs Way and my feet got battered (wearing trail runners with very thick stiff soles). Look forward to your feedback. 👍
I think in large part it will come down to personal tolerance! If this is your first foray into barefoot shoes then something like the South Downs way could definitely be a bit much however for smaller full day or 2-day projects even a bone stock beginner would fair quite well.
Though still zero drop and with traditional barefoot soles, the thick lugs on these take away from the discomfort you may expect from a thinner soled shoe.
Personally I’ve used less forgiving variants on hikes up to 5 days and though you get a lot of feedback, the foot does quickly adapt. Worth a punt in my opinion!
It's definitely a factor to consider. These were my first "barefoot" shoes and you definitely feel a lot more of the ground and those pesky "sniper rocks"! The benefit, of course, is more grip and control, and that was a massive help on a recent rocky hike in Wales. I have noticed as I use them more, my feet tolerate rocks and general distance better as (I guess) they adapt and become stronger.
If you have problems with pain through those massive michelin soles + insoles, you have VERY weak feet and that's normal if you've been wearing regular shoes/boots all your life.
Your feet can get to a point where massive stones are just a massage, even in trully barefoot shoes (which those aren't). Keep at it and then you'll realize how little cushion our feet actually need.
As someone who walks actually barefoot an awful lot (but not each winter for 4 months or so. It does take a couple of months each year for your feet too adapt to being contorted back and forth as it adapts to the stones under load.
I think the reward is worth the payoff. I mean if you want your feet to remain healthy till you die and you don’t live in a climate where you can realistically be barefoot all year round, you’re gonna have to put up with an it of bedding in each spring.
It’s the same concept for you going from a standard hiker to these. It will put more training wear on your foot, and it will be worth it!
Recently I've been tripping and almost rolling my ankle often, but I've got good flexibility/strength and I'm fast on my feet so nothing has broken, yet. After some months of on-off investigations, I decided to order these boots as my first barefoot shoe. Curious to see if it helps my recently developed clumsiness. My guess is that the thick sole on most timberlands is the cause of this clumsiness.
I suspect your suspicions are correct, I've not once rolled an ankle since switching over to barefoot shoes. Let me know how you get on with them!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject So far so good, took them on some pretty difficult wet and rocky paths and the grip is amazing. They do benefit from some break-in but overall I can't complain, 2 days on the mountain and didn't have any blisters or soreness apart from what you would expect hiking all day. I was surprised by the total lack of lower back pain, which I usually get from walking long hours.
They're my first but definitely not my last pair of barefoot vivos I buy.
Great video thanks! Why would Vivo not make a tracker 2 with the same upper material but this grip? The tracker 2 is waterproof but awful grip, this shoe needs to be treated and not waterproof 😢
It's a good question! If I (and most channel subs!) had my way, Vivo would use this sole on about 90% of their outdoor line.
I'd be interest to hear your thoughts as you mentioned on a winter mountaineering boot that is at the least barefoot shaped. I can't find anything. Obviously it would need to be a bit stiffer for technical terrain. I like to scramble and the thin sole just dosent cut it. I've been using Altra all weather's to scramble and they've been good but for full winter conditions I'm still not sure...
Personally I love these ESC boots too. My biggest complaint is that it needs a rand to protect the leather round the toe box mainly.
You should check out the Tracker All Weather SG's. I have a pair (not yet gotten around to reviewing them) and they are my go to winter mountaineering/scrambling boots. They're stiffer than the Forest ESC's, with a rand and more insulation for winter work. I suspect they would tick quite a few of your boxes!
Dudeeeeee. Your vids have been selling me on vivo… i just found a used pair of the green tracker forest esc for next to nothing ( I’ve bid on them *fingers crossed* ).. yet I have a used pair of PRIMUS trail delivering today. Lol You really know how to sell these, mate!!!
That’s awesome bro - did you get the Forest ESC’s??
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject it did!!! i should get them by next week. super cheap almost nothing, not used much and they're the gray-green color. Ive worn my Primus Trail all this week after wearing some of those Goat grip sock shoes for a while at the gym, I had zero problems transitioning. Im ready and will never buy any other shoes now lol.
The goat grip socks are actually not bad. I would still feel weird hiking in those lol but in the gym and doing yoga they’re great
@@photokunstler good for you dude! Are those the Dbeck shoes? If so, what did you make of them. Thinking of getting a pair to try out
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject goat grip sock shoes were the ones I ended up getting to transition into vivos. They’re actually not bad. A good temporary shoe, I know I’ll wear those out super fast.
I bought the Magna FG and my sister got the Magna Forest ESC. After our most recent trip, I’m going to get the Magna Forest ESC; she said the same things about the outsole and they are super comfortable. I like the Magna FG for more casual wear and light hikes, but they are not as good for longer hikes I found.
I have to agree, you can definitely get by with the FG’s but the ESC’s are a level above IMO. Where did you hike?
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject upper peninsula Michigan, I try to go as many times a year I can, and usually a vacation out west. I was just in Zion, Bryce Canyon, and a few others. Im thinking of going back in a couple years to camp. I haven’t traveled out of the US, because there’s still so much to see here, and km hoping to move to Colorado or Utah in a few years; that way I can hike as much as I want.
@TheBarefootStrengthProject thanks for the video, I'm looking to purchasing these boots but also looking in to the manga forest ESC, how you decide between these 2?
Great question and tough choice, the magna are lower cut so better suited to shorter/day hikes where you're not walking through thick brush. The Tracker Forest being a bit taller lends itself better to longer hikes where you want a bit more protection/durability. Hope that helps, but not matter what, both are great boots!
Great review! I’ve been looking for a good hiking boot! I just ordered!
Thank you and that’s great to hear, I look forward to hearing back with what you think!
Be interested to hear your thoughts comparing these to the Freet Ibex? Been weighing up which of these to go for, but haven't seen a good comparison yet. Always found Freet to be simpler & maybe not as aesthetically appealing/stylish as Vivo's but generally better in function / comfort / durability.
It’s a great question and honestly I haven’t been able to get hands on with the FREET Ibex yet.
I sent them a message on Instagram after seeing your comment to try and get hold of some, if I do then I’ll do a comparison review and let you know 🙌🏽
I've been thinking of trying the Tundra too
The only thing I would consider is whether the soles of the Ibex have been glued or stitched on to the upper. From photos, it looks like the Ibex soles have been glued, though I could be wrong. These Vivo's have stitched on soles like the Magmas. I have two pairs of Freet shoes - the Bootee and the Motus. Though I really like both and find them very comfortable with excellent ground feel, I've found that the soles on one of my Motus shoes has started to separate in two places. The Motus are a soft leather shoe. My Bootee boots (synthetic) on the other hand have had much more use and there is no sign of the soles separating - they also have glued on soles.
Curious in this comparison as well
Hey man, love your videos I was just wondering f how these compare to the TRACKER DECON FG2 JJF shoes? Sorry if it was covered in the video or already mentioned just wondering which ones you would choose given the choice
Thank you. The JJF Decons are definitely a pretty boot, but for serious off road application you cannot beat the Tracker Forest ESC's. There's a full review of the Decons (including how they compare to the Forest ESC's) here: ruclips.net/video/676tF-p-DLM/видео.html
"Leather not known for being breathable", since when? Sure it depends on the treatment and it's no mesh, but it absolutely is breathable.
Really well tought trough review. Did u wear toe socks? did u experiment with different lacing setup? bottleneck ect. Will they tear fast if only wear on concrete? I work in security and all black boot is a demand, so i figured out a order this one for the natural movement benefit.
not sure to for these or the tracker 2 fg for my everyday boot for autumn winter
I would strongly recommend these, the build quality is MILES better (stiched sole, better tread etc)
Great review!
I’m a 47 in Primus Lite 3, Scott and Borough. But I’m a 48 in Tracker 2 FG. What size would you suggest for these? I have always had size issues with Vivo. Thanks!!
Thank you! If you plan on wearing them in winter, size up to 48, summer or fringe season I'd go true to size 47 as the leather has a little give 🙌🏼
Nice review however I've found very uncomfortable on my achilies :( same as the other vivo boots- trackers. Sucks as otherwise they are great. I have only worn vivos for years, and run 50k a week in their trainers. My wife doesn't have this problem so gave to her as both size 45. I think I read its a common problem, however can't remember where. I've never experienced in other boots.
Hey T.E - thank you! And that's interesting, is it a friction based thing (the ankle support of the boot rubbing on the achilles tendon)?
Either way I'm pleased your wife is able to get use out of them!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject no like a digging in thing with each step- worse when going quicker. I guess because they are low cut or something. Thanks for replying!
I tried these 1.5y ago and I noticed that I felt the lugs on the outer edge put pressure on my foot when I'd walk. I only tested them indoors and found them quite uncomfortable.
Great review thanks. Can’t decide between Magna and forest esc. A question- do you treat them as soon as they arrive new?
Thank you! They come treated from the factory but I did JIC!
Great video. Thanks.
You bet 🙌🏽
My hall floor is polished limestone tiles, super smooth, and these soles squeak and grip
Now that I've found you travel week to week, I have a very important question to you. If you could only take 2 vivos with you, which ones would they be? Now, second question: If you could only take 2 vivos with you, and wanted one to be semi fashionable, which ones would you take?
Two very important questions and something I've spent a lot of time thinking about as I gear up for a couple of years in the tropics.
For ultra reliability and versatility it would have to be the Tracker Forest ESC x Primus Trail Knit FG, which will be the only 2 shoes I take on my next adventure.
If I cared about being semi-fashionable and was willing to sacrifice a little versatility then it would be the new Gobi Boot (hi-top w/ the stitched soles) x Primus Trail Knit FG.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Perfect answer!
My plan for high top is either the new Gobi or Tracker esc- If I went with the Gobi, I was planning to do tracker decon low for the low top. Would you still choose primus trail knit? I loved my classic tracker so much I felt if I had that in a low top it would make up for the Gobi’s lack of hike ability if I ever needed some extra grip
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject So right now I am at:
1. tracker esc
2. tracker decon low
1. gobi leather stitched
2. tracker decon low
or swapping out the decon low for the primus knit. I watched your review of the decon low and am worried about the heel blister though
Vivobarefoot do NOT say these are waterproof, they’re water-resistant. Important for people to know. That said, they’re amazingly comfortable.
I have been waiting to get a pair of these. Great to see your review to reaffirm my decision to eventually get some 👍🏼
I’m pleased it was helpful - let me know what you think once you’ve got a set!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject will do. I’m actually in email talks with Vivo at the moment regarding their quality control specifically talking about my Primus Trail Knit FG. I absolutely love these shoes but the sole is starting to come away from the upper where the shoe flexes and have only been wearing them for three weeks. Their customer service is fantastic but for such a premium price I expect premium quality and last. I’m wondering your experience of these forest ESC and their quality control?
@@simonverrill do you mean the part where the toe flexes? If so, I had the exact same issue in a couple of their shoes (the trail FG & trail all weathers). In the end it turned out to be purely aesthetic and didn’t impact the function over many happy miles, though I agree it does seem like an oversight.
@@simonverrill further to that, the quality of the Forest ESC’s has been top notch. The sole has separated a little on the flex point however it’s a stitched sole so it’s purely a small aesthetic flaw in my eyes. Hope that helps!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject when my foot is at full flex under weight where that leather edging on the upper meets the sole. It’s not bad but I was assuming it was going to grow. They have offered me a replacement but I’m thinking it’s going to do the same thing. And I wonder if it’s simply that leather material type being too stiff against the gum sole. Not sure. If I could upload a picture I would show you but it sounds like you know what I mean. Maybe it won’t get any worse 🤔
Been wearing these as work boots for the last 4/5 months-coming from AKU, Altberg, Lowa, but using mostly Xero and Vans for the gym and casual.
The fit on these is perfect for me-I have wide feet-so going to get some vivos for the gym. The Magna ESC has the same sole-do you reckon it would work?!
It should do but I'd opt for the Primus lite or Primus trail knit as gym shoes over the Magna, although I have seen some top level powerlifters using them on mind-blowing lifts so definitely not a bad shout!
I’ve been wearing the Forest ESC as work boots for over a year and love them, but the Magna version felt too floppy around my ankles, so I returned them. One downside of the Forest shoe that I’ve found, is that the inner leather lining around where your heel slips in (so the inside of the back of the shoe) started ripping within a month or two. Under that is a rigid plastic enforcement that breaks off in bits and pieces. Doesn’t bother me too much, but seems like a construction flaw
Vivo receive the best sole ever from michelin… and they put ot on a super weird and specific range of shoes… non-waterproof shoe for cold days, swimrun niche shoe, and a leisure suede shoe… why not a normal nice low hiking shoe for spring summer with goratex?
Totally agree - it is on the Magna Forest ESC (any shoe they do with ESC has the Michelin sole) which is about as close to fitting your bill as they get. Personally I’d love to see it on the Primus Trail Knit but for now, looks like we have to keep on waiting!
If you maintain the upper with wax, how long will these last, in years?
Will upper wear out before the rubber or the other way around?
I honestly don’t know, mine are still going 2/3 years on. The rubber will be the failure point but if you live in the UK or (now) the USA you can send them back to VivoBarefoot to be refurbished. They’ll bring them back to as new condition and you’ll be good to go again
Nice one Royal
Cheers fella!
Dig the review. Don't see a whole lot of people review these shoes at this quality. What is the best looking zero drop shoe in your opinion?
Thanks man, appreciate it! Just getting into it and learning with each video so hopefully the quality keeps going up and up!
TBH probably the tracker decon, vivo really levelled up the game with its aesthetic but it really comes down to your personal preference and style
Have you tried revivo? I know for a "great value" it's $175, I believe. Would you recommend buying reused shoes or to buy them new? And for hiking are there any cons to buying used?
Great question - I've sent a couple of shoes off to them (for them to refurbish and resell) but I've never bought from there myself as I like my 'fresh out the box' shoes, I'll have to give it a go at some point.
For hiking, it really comes down to trust in the refurbishment. The more wear the materials have had the more likely they are to fail you at a critical moment, but as far as I know, Vivo are very thorough and take a lot of pride in refurbishing their footwear so I would both buy it and trust it.
Let me know if you get anything from them, I'd love to hear what you think!
Thanks for the video! What size are you in other shoes, and what size Vivo Forest Trackers ESC did you get?
Hi Mohamed, I’m a euro 45 in most shoes and ordered a euro 45 for these tracker ESC’s.
great review! how's the puncture resistance? I'm considering making the switch to barefoot boots, but tree thorns are pretty nasty 'round here
Thank you! Unreal in my experience, I’ve worn them all over the world and have never had anything get through their soles, even on the 3mm sole of the Primus Lites 🫡
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject awesome! I'm definitely grabbing a pair!
@@facundocorradini awesome - enjoy! Code GT10 will get you 10% off as well which is always helpful 🙌🏽
A question about the durability of the Michelin sole please.. I've had these for a few months and only hiked in them 3 times for a total of around 25 miles. The sole is already showing significant wear for that distance, several lugs in the heel and forefoot area have those topographic grooves in the lugs worn off so the lug is smooth with no grooves and a couple of the lugs have about 1mm of rubber worn away. After only 25ish miles, somewhere around 6 or 7 miles on road and the rest on trail and grass.
How much wear is on yours? After one year of regular use my pair will be worn completely bare at this rate.
For most of my hiking and daily walking I'd rather have a light breathable shoe / boot that dries inside out extremely fast than something that's waterproof. I just don't want rocks and sand in my shoes to help it dry out quicker.
For sure, the Primus Trail FG's are awesome for that purpose and are my go to 'speed' hiking boot when I'm looking to chomp miles over a few days and CBA with the faff of wet leather!
your weak to hot temperatures. But it is probably not your fault. most likely just were you are born. and even if you are mean Celsius, that's not even hot, 33 Celsius is nice and a bit too hot but not a problem in my house with no air-conditioning and broken fan. What I'm trying to say is thanks for the review! and -1 Celsius an't cold to me ether. (I don't like wearing socks and shoes for more than a hour. so breathable shoes are a must, I might be rude here, so I don't apologize. But I genially appreciate the review, I'm looking at a lot of review and so far you 'res is the best
Haha well, I'm from England where it's famous for being cold so you're probably very right! But I'm now in Bali so my training to become a hot weather ninja is well and truly underway.
Thank you for the kind words about my review, I appreciate it - honesty is always appreciated here!
Do you think these would be good for the city? I’m a courier and on a bike all day and thinking about the wet/cold seasons and need something that can get beat up. Don’t need so much waterproofing but something where they’re not going to get immediately soaked and can get beat up
They're tough as old nails if you treat them right (wax up every now and then), well worth a punt just keep in mind the leather will take a while to dry if you do fully saturate it.
One of the eyelets popped out on mine just after the 100 days after little use. It was extremely disappointing, most comfy boots I've ever worn though.
That is disappointing, hopefully the team at Vivo were able to set it right.. definitely agree on comfort though, next level!
Great video, I have a question for you I just went hiking 48 kilos over two days in the Magna Forest ESC. It was around 23 C temperatures so not too much foot sweat. However, tons of leaves covering the trail and they were wet and got my foot drenched from the moisture on the merino wool tongue. It was terrible. Like my foot was swimming in water. I would think that I would not have the same problem with the Tracker ESC boots? I know the all leather tongue, but the water resistance you know. It took my boots 36 hours to dry out. Glad I didn't have to do another day. I appreciate any guidance you have.
Hey Jeremy, yeah I can imagine that was pretty unpleasant! The Magna Forest ESC’s are brilliant boots but you’re right, any moisture above the sole and it’s straight in.
I don’t think you’d have the same problem with these boots as long as you kept them treated. Obviously if the leather is constantly getting saturated with water crossings etc etc it will eventually seep in but for the conditions you’re describing, these boots would be right at home.
If you do decide to get them I have a vivo discount code ‘CLEM10’ which will get you 10% off - happy hiking!
Are they suitable for dry grounds and warm places? Because where I live in spring is warm but in summer is really hot. Plus, are the boots comfortable to wear them in the city?
Good wicking socks and loosely laced would be an absolute must in summer but I wear them hiking in Canada over the summer with no issues. If you’re primarily hiking in warm dry areas though, you should consider a low top knitted hiking capable shoe like the Primus trail FG, I’ve done LOTS of heavy hiking in hot climates using those (most recently Mt.Toubkal in Morocco) and they’ve been brilliant
thanks buddy, i loved the in depth review. I actually live in ontario and am looking for a winter boot right now that checks off some boxes. It seems like this boot might be my best option...wont be mountaineering in them but will be taking them out in all the snowy days. I am a delivery driver and wanted something with more traction to avoid slipping on ice. You reckon these will be an excellent fit in that regard?
Cheers man!
Honestly I think these would be right up there alongside the Tracker All Weather SG (also Vivobarefoot) which are 100% unfuckable with no matter the weather. The ESC’s you’d need to remember to treat, the all weathers just take abuse, a bit more expensive but worth considering and code GT10 gets you 10% off 🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject okay cool man! I am in Canada and I noticed they dont have the all weather SG's unfortuntely. Just between the tracker 2 and the tracker ESC!
I have zero hfs 2 for road running, primus trail fg for gym and hiking in warm weather and looking for a boot with sg for rain and colder weather. Not sure where to go for this or the magna version. I was thinking the magna would be better for breathability and if its very wet i can have gaiters or tuck my water proofs over trousers in the magna. What do you think?
If it's wet to the point of needing gaiters, get these (Forest ESC) over the Magnas. 100% chance of wet feet 🤣
They are good for mountains? Isnt this sole too soft? It will not protect foot from rocks?
Brilliant for mountains. They’re minimalist barefoot shoes so the protection is as a result minimalist so you can feel rocks, pebbles etc as you hike, but that in turn is what attracts a lot of people to them as you’re much more aware and a part of of your environment
Spoke to someone from Vivo they said nikwax is suitable for these boots too
Definitely, nikwax, beeswax, whatever you’ve got would work okay (I’ve even used lip balm before when I was in a stitch 😆)
what would you recommend Vivobarefoot TRACKER FOREST ESC or tracker deacon. for yakushima in May High rain fall im not sure what one to go for...
I have both and I'd recommend the Tracker Forest ESC, just make sure you treat and wear gators if it's raining so water doesn't come in from the top.
Thank you I’ll get the forest 😄 is there any gaiters you recommend for barefoot
@@elldabell78969 Any type should work, I generally wear swiss military surplus ones.
I bought the Magna Forest Esc since my interest in hiking has gone up as well as my fitness in hiking and I love barefoot shoes and coincidentally bought them during black Friday, so I got them cheaper. Awesome review, it's got me excited to start digging them into the ground!
That’s awesome! I think even at full price they’re unreal value so if you managed to get them at a discount you’re laughing! Look forward to hearing how you get on with them Toemass202 🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject I'll keep in touch!
I was interested in getting these boots for hunting. Ill be hunting NZ Alps next year, do you think they would hold up carrying up to 40kgs of weight and hills?
Sounds like a hell of a trip. I’m 105 dry but with pack and gear often over 130/140kg total. They’ve never flinched and are still going strong so unless you eat a lot of bacon between now and then, they should do just fine.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Awesome mate thanks for that, I'll be switching the bacon for Tahr and Red Deer haha
What are the best vivobarefoot shoes for everyday like 12 hours plus on my feet?