Checkout our Barefoot Transition Guide for everything you NEED to safely transition to barefoot shoes while avoiding injury: www.barefootstrengthproject.com/barefoot-transition-guide
Any golfers out there, these are the best vivos for golf in my opinion. I have been golfing in a couple pairs of FG's this past season and loving them, but felt I needed a bit more grip. Put these on, and BOOM, added an average of 10-15 yards to my drive. Felt absolutely zero moving around on the grass like I did at times in my FGs. I have not tried the SG's yet - they too are probably great for golf. But damn, cannot recommend this shoe enough for golfers. Love em'!
I recently purchased my first pair of VIVO after loving the older versions of the Merrell vapors. Wasn’t too happy with the newer iterations of the vapors, and had poor customer service from the company, but with Vívo barefoot, I just grabbed a pair of boots and absolutely love them. I’m going to snag a pair of Hydra or Primus lite next. Thank you. God bless you.
Ditto, merrel trail gloves were my first serious barefoot shoes but don't like the more recent iterations. I started looking around for winter barefoot boots and bought the forest tracker escapes (which I think are very good) and plan on replacing my old merrells with either these or primus trails. Did you try them out and have any thoughts?
@@epardee20 I bought and tried them on around the house for a couple days. They were just too tight around the ankle if I was wearing anything but the thinnest socks. I guess for a warm-weather swim-run shoe that's fine but as an all-purpose multi-terrain hiking shoe they were just too much of a faff to get my feet in and out with socks suitable for cooler temperatures.
had my eyes on these, I am looking for my first pair (toe spacers arrived yesterday :-) )and because I live near the sea I like the idea of being able to walk anywhere. Thanks for the review
These are the perfect hiking shoes I was waiting from Vivo for the summer! Hiking, canoying, kayak, rafting….with the Michelin outsole! My only (little) complain would be about the colors…. they are a bit strange… they same design without the white parts, just a black and red shoe would be amazing.
I couldn’t agree more - they’d be phenomenal summer hikers, think you’ll get a pair? I’m inclined to agree on the colours, for me an army green x black pair would be 👌🏽 BUT it’s a small price to pay for how good they are 🙌🏽🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject without any doubt I'll buy these ones. I agree with you that a army green with black would be f**cking amazing and cool... :(
I love both the forest ESC (Magna and Tracker), but both are more suitable for hiking in mild and cold condition. If you hike regularly in the tropics, those might not be the best option. Wet and light rain wouldn't to much to leather boots, but constant heavy rain and the heat favour the plastic and fabric hydra. It will dry out quicker after being soaked while being more breathable. The hydra is also cheaper and looks more "sporty". You can certainly bring them to the gym and no one would bat an eye. That being said, if I get a single hiking shoes, I would certainly go for either the magna or tracker. Leather is just much more durable in many circumstances, and very few hike in the hot, humid tropic anyway. They also look and feel much better, makes the mountain of cash you pay for feels worth it. I got the tracker because I spend most of my time in the tropics, but I would advice any serious hikers to consider Vivo's more expensive option. I also find it strange that the Magna seems to be out-of-stock most of the time compare to the magna and tracker.
Hi Clem, Do you know if Vivo have any plans of making a 'normal' Primus Trail with this Michelin sole? That would be an excellent shoe. I swim barefoot (oddly enough lol) so don't need a weird hybrid upper.
Great question and honestly - I'm not sure. You'd think they would at some point, but I also can't recall ever having seen an ESC sole on a fabric bodied shoe, so there could perhaps be an attachment hurdle to overcome. I'll keep me ear to the ground and let you know if I hear any rumblings though as that would be a real unicorn!
@The Barefoot Strength Project Thanks. The Primus Trail has a plastic upper too but I take your point, maybe they're still trying to figure out how to marry a beefy sole with a lighter, less structured upper or possibly not even thought of putting a grippy sole on a normal trail running shoe. I quite like the FG sole for versatile trail use but when I'm with other people, anybody with a Vibram sole and deeper lugs has an obvious advantage and I would end up arse over tit if I attempted to keep up the same speed as them. Which makes Vivobarefoot for me a no go for anything competitive.
I asked Vivobarefoot if they were going to do so. They replied that they don’t know and that the testing stage can take quite some time. It would be a perfect trail runner for hiking.
For sure, I'll be doing a full follow up video on the tech specs in a few weeks but they're crazy light and drain water on a level above anything I've come across so far. Well worth considering for any future trail runs you do in future 🙌🏼
I love the look of these but I fear my feet have splayed beyond the fit of the last used in this ESC sole, I heard it was pretty narrow for a barefoot shoe on the original hydra a few years ago. They’d be perfect for an upcoming very boggy 50k, if I could get a good fit. How have you found the toebox width compared to something like their Primus trail II?
Hey Paul, I just grabbed both pairs and pulled the insoles for a side by side comparison and the ESC insole is an exact match up with the Primus II insole in terms of length and width. It was however much more perforated presumably to help with drainage so if your feet work well in the Primus Trail, these could be a great option for your ultra
Are there any rough spots inside this shoe which might cause rubbing or blisters when you are going long distances and not wearing socks? I have the Vivobarefoot Primus Knit Trail shoes and there is one spot which rubs and causes blisters if I don’t wear socks.
It’s hard to say without having done it but there is much more rigidity to the structure of these than the Primus Knit so I would imagine if you have a pinch point on those you’ll likely have a similar pinch point on these as well
There is right on the ankle. I actually sold my pairs after 2 runs only and the wounds took a month to heal. Really disappointing when paying so much for a pair of shoes. Btw, the second run was with socks and plasters with extra cotton on the ankles but as soon as it got wet it started tearing again.
Did you feel any extra friction and tension on the ankles? I did 2 OCR events with those and I got wounds on my ankles that took a month to heal. And I'm not new to Vivo's as last year I completed a marathon in the Primus Trail FG II and before buying the Hydra ESC I tried a size up and down. As for the hydro capabilities I was also left disappointed. One km after being in water they were still soaked and heavy. Would be nice to hear / read stories of people who have used them for at least 100 km.
Hey Jason, No I didn't have any of those issues, were you wearing socks that came up high enough on the ankle to act as a barrier between the shoe and the skin? I've definitely found the material on the Primus Trail FG knit to be softer than the Hydras so can see how it would create more friction than those. How long were your OCR's? As for 100km+ athletes, I've put about *300km on these shoes now, they're holding up well. A little wear on the sole but thats my own doing from running between trails on concrete but the material is otherwise in great shape and bedding in nicely.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject first run was 10k on beach with sand, water from the beginning, and no socks. Second a week after, also 10km, water, socks, cotton pads stuck on the wounds + plasters. It pushed right through as soon as socks and shoes got soaked. Glad to hear they've worked out for you, tho. For me they will remain an expensive and painful experience.
@@jason.vasilev ah dude that was an error - always wear socks on sand, the higher the better, especially if you’re planning on getting wet and sandy! Hope the wounds heal up okay and you give them another go (with socks) once they do 👍🏼
@@medi8001 besides the marathon, I've done 1 OCR with them, and they were simply remarkable. No slip, super good grip and comfort. The race there started with 5m drop in water, but no sand on the course. I also wore socks and had 0 issues, besides the discomfort of wet feet. Now I've bought a new pair of those, but for primary hiking as I'm done with OCR.
Hi. Thanks for sharing. Which would you choose between the Hydra ESC's and the Magna Forest ESC's for hiking in the mountains where you'd go through a few knee deep river crossings? How would you compare the grip on the Hydra ESC's compared to the other Forest and Tracker ESC's?
That's one hell of a question! If we're talking multiple knee deep crossings where you are going to get unavoidably soaking wet boots/shoes, hit up the hydras as long as you're in a warm climate where they'll dry. If not, get the magna forest ESC's and take them off for the river crossings!
Great video, Clem. I saw these were coming a while back and forgot about them. Very cool! Would like to see more of the actual shoe when you’ve had a bit more time with them. 👍🏼
Cheers Ste! If you get your hands on a pair, they're awesome. There'll definitely be a follow up video on the tech specs and capabilities in a few weeks. Got a trip to Morocco first to blast through the Sahara and then scramble up some big hills in the Atlas Mountains, hoping to get some awesome content out of it, keep your eyes peeled 🙌🏼
British military backpack, don't have it with you so couldn't tell you the size but they're hardy things. I have tried the Magna Forest ESC's, infact I even went as far as buying a pair. Brilliant boots, I tend to lean more towards the Tracker Forest ESC's for when I do actually wear boots though as they're a bit higher on the ankle and if I'm not wearing full boots I'll hike in Trail running shoes, but I very much see the use case for them as warmer month hikers or city winter shoes.
Nice overview of barefoot style shoes, but to be honest, I was hoping for a review of the Hydra escapes compared to other barehoot swim-run / trail running / hiking shoes. I used to use the merrel trail gloves but I don't like the more recent design changes (from 3 to 5) and after purchasing a pair of forest tracker escapes to hike the west highland way in winter . . . I'm considering getting vivobarefoot replacements for the trail gloves, which are my do it all (except winter hiking in wet conditions) walking and hiking shoe. Do you think the hydra escapes are a good choice? Those thick lugs should mean a looong lifespan and good grip in mud. Low water absorbancy and quick draining must mean they are very breathable and so should be comfortable in summer and quick to dry if I do get wet. But the primus trails also look quite nice . . .
Yes, they're designed as swim-run shoes so the goal is for them to get wet (whilst swimming) but have the water drain out of them ASAP once you're back on land. Definitely not a winter shoe! They don't have any goretex shoes but I have personally used the Tracker Forest ESC's (not waterproof unless treated) and the Tracker II FG (waterproof as standard) in English and Canadian winters with great success.
I just bought these shoes recently and everything was cool except the rubbing on the back of my heel did this happen to you and also how do I solve this
Both heels or just 1? Most people have one foot slightly bigger than the other one, so your if only one foot it could be smaller which is a looser fit. One option is to get shoe spacers, they are a pad that sticks to the back of the shoe to bring it down half a size. If both, try shoe spacers on both pairs to provide a snugger fit around heels
Hey thanks for the video! I'm trying to choose between these Hydras and a pair of the Primus iii all weathers. I trail run, but I was also hoping I might be able to play softball in them too, given they seem to have pretty decent tread. I was hoping you might have a take on which way I should lean here. Any advice would really help! thanks!
No worries at all! Tricky choice - I’ve never played softball BUT I suppose it depends on how seriously you take it. If the answer is very seriously, then the hydras will act very similarly to cleats, the grip is just on another level which is particularly noticeable with rapid changes of direction at full tilt. If it’s just a bit of fun and you like doing distance trail runs on a regular basis then the sole on the trail FG will last longer the that on ESC, or if you’re often running on wet terrain, the all weathers will keep your foot a LOT drier (the hydras are designed for swim/run so let water in as easily as they shed it out). Hopefully that helps, if not, flip a coin or pick which one you think looks best. They’re both epic 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Mate thank you for your speedy reply, this has really helped. You make some compelling points. I think I am leaning towards the All Weathers in this moment, they look more supportive than the fly knit desig of the hydras, but your point about the grip is very tempting. This may be a silly question, but would you advise against using these shoes to run on roads? I guess it will speed up the wearing of the soles?
These shoes look amazing for the outdoors but I was wondering how they would perform in the gym as well. Especially for CrossFit style workouts. What do you think ?
Hey Suleiman, you could use them but there are better options IMO. Check out the Primus Trail Knit review I did, they’re my go to & code GT10 will get you 10% off the website 🙌🏽
Honestly I don’t think so, the Primus Trail Knit or all weathers would be my go to unless you’re doing swim run or soft ground trail running where these would really excel. Hope that helps 🙌🏽
When comparing the HYDRA ESC shoes to the PRIMUS TRAIL II ALL WEATHER FG, I've found the latter to be far more comfortable. It's a bit disappointing that the HYDRA ESC comes at a higher price point despite being less comfortable overall. The only notable advantage of the HYDRA ESC is its suitability for swimming.
what's the experience with rocks, pebbles and sand entering the hydras, while in water or on the beach? when in the water, how easily does sand and rocks enter the hydra shoes? what happens when rocks and sand get into the hydra shoes when in the water? unbearable? easy to remove rocks and sand? thanks
Not too bad tbh! The top section is almost like a knitted sock which fits the form of your foot keeping most the nasty stuff out. That said if you're running through deep sand etc. then a little is inevitable. I've found sand to mostly was out whilst swimming but any excess is easy enough to get rid of as these slip on and off making it a 10 second job. Not had any issues with rocks so far.
Just got mine and returning them straight away. This is really not what I'd expect at that budget. The lace and snap are total b.s. - can't understand they even dare to ship something like that out. For the rest they're just uncomfortable, plastic clogs. They pinch the foot just above the toes when walking and as mentioned the plastic is just all around uncomfortable to wear. If they were cheap I'd keep them as swim shoes but there's now way I'm gonna walk in them.
I was in the Lake District a few weeks ago, absolutely gorgeous peaks and the Forest Esc's smashed it- no blisters no knee pain only muscle soreness (the good kind). Avoided a dip in the lakes wasn't going to soak up my only pair of Vivo's and these would have come in clutch. Not a fan of the orange, would like to see a more water themed colourway in the future! Anyway, great to see you putting the new Vivo's through the ringer literally a day after I was aware they had released, really enjoyed the video hope you had a great time in the Lakes, thanks!
That's awesome Ryan, do you know which peaks you ended up bagging? I'm lucky enough to call it my home when I'm in the UK so the lake dips are almost compulsory 😆. They've got another colour way called 'Seagreen' (if you follow the link in the description you should be able to find it easily enough) but it'll be cool to see what other colour ways they add in future. I think an army green and black would be mega.. Pleased you enjoyed the video!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Hey Clem, didn't attempt any peaks but they certainly held up in deep mud and on slippy rocks. I'll be heading back soon once I've geared up to tackle as many peaks as I can. I did visit the Aira Force waterfalls and after a week straight of rain it was crashing on the rocks like thunder, really epic. I came up against slippy stones, rocks, mud soaked paths and the Forest Esc's dug in and never budged once. I'm convinced they have the best traction sole ever put on a shoe. In my opinion they should have it on all of their trail line. Thanks for the heads up, that colour way is much more my style, perhaps a Vivo x Creature of the Black Lagoon collab in the future? 😂 Jokes aside I agree an army green and black is a must for this shoe, as well as a coyote brown desert version as well, cause who wants to have to take your shoes off after a scorched trek in the dunes. With these just straight into water no issues. I hope you're going to do a specs and more in-depth video on the shoe soon, would love to know more about it!
Thrilled to see your channel exists! Coverage on these newer shoes from vivo is definitely lacking. Would you mind sharing your thoughts on these new Hydras vs. the Primus Trail All-Weather FG III’s for all-around use and also specifically for trail running? It almost seems like these Hydras can do everything the Primus All-Weather FG III’s can but then a bit more
Why not try using some fabric sticking plaster on the soles of your feet for the ultimate in bare foot experience. Seems like you may have some spare looking at your nose. Keep up the good work and thanks a million.
Great question. There’s a few factors at play, how malleable the underside of your foot it is (allowing it to ‘mould to the environment you’re walking on), how much fat pad you naturally have (genetic), whether your feet are naturally calloused or smooth and pain tolerance. Personally, I can walk on pretty much whatever now and it’s taken about 2 years to do that with most of the adaptation just coming from wearing minimal shoes. But for sure when I started going completely barefoot it was very much a case of find the biggest patch of grass possible and stay on that 😂
Just got mine today for a Swim&Run race later this month. They looked huge compared to my Merrel Barefoot. but after putting them on (1 size bigger than foot-deformer shoes) they fit pretty nicely and are tight in the ankle. The sole is Michelin and looks super durable, specially when comparted to my GFs Innov8 she just bought that seem like after a 1 km run in rocky terrain the sole will be flat.
brother, I want to reffer you when buying Vivo shoes. They require email and Name Surname. Could you tell? And put it into all video description, I suppose many of us will be grateful
From their website: "So confident, we've introduced a 100 day trial to all orders. If you change your mind within that period, we're happy for you to return your shoes for a full refund with no hassle."
You know the review is bought and paid for when he talks about the shoes for 10 minutes and doesn't mention how notoriously difficult to put these shoes on. I had to remove socks, and even then it took me 10 minutes because the sock-like structure on the neck doesn't expand much and the hole is tiny. Essentially, I's forcing a UK size 11 feet through a tennis-ball size hole. Not unline child-birth. Much labour.
I think you’ve got your shoes confused. Their old model (the Tempest - more like an ankle boot) absolutely, pain in the ass to get on, but these are easy as anything
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject No I didn't. I have a pair of Hydras, alright. And it took me a solid 10 minutes to put on. I went for a 1-hour walk, now I have the worst blisters ever because, well, no socks. These shoes are horrible, mate. They look great. They're definitely high-quality. But they're horribly uncomfortable and painful.
@@EtcilYasam are you sure you got them in the right size? You should have about a half to a full thumb distance between the end of your toe and the end of the shoe. Otherwise I haven't got a clue what the problem is but vivo does have a 100 day return policy, so just send them back for a refund/different pair
I agree, it ain’t cheap BUT for the sheer volume of activities you can use them for, I think they’re unbelievable value for money. Especially when you consider the similarly priced Nikes/Adidas etc can only really do one thing well
Checkout our Barefoot Transition Guide for everything you NEED to safely transition to barefoot shoes while avoiding injury: www.barefootstrengthproject.com/barefoot-transition-guide
Bro, how do you only have 3k subscribers. Your content is like 10 million sub quality. I love your content tho!!!!!!!
Not everyone is interested in barefoot shoes?
i have those hydra the lace is itchy inside that sucks i guess i have the older version
Any golfers out there, these are the best vivos for golf in my opinion. I have been golfing in a couple pairs of FG's this past season and loving them, but felt I needed a bit more grip. Put these on, and BOOM, added an average of 10-15 yards to my drive. Felt absolutely zero moving around on the grass like I did at times in my FGs. I have not tried the SG's yet - they too are probably great for golf. But damn, cannot recommend this shoe enough for golfers. Love em'!
Love this! You might find the SG's are a bit better at keeping the water out on dew'y days but agreed, the grip is second to none
Office shoe offices. Perfect.
I recently purchased my first pair of VIVO after loving the older versions of the Merrell vapors. Wasn’t too happy with the newer iterations of the vapors, and had poor customer service from the company, but with Vívo barefoot, I just grabbed a pair of boots and absolutely love them. I’m going to snag a pair of Hydra or Primus lite next. Thank you. God bless you.
Ditto, merrel trail gloves were my first serious barefoot shoes but don't like the more recent iterations. I started looking around for winter barefoot boots and bought the forest tracker escapes (which I think are very good) and plan on replacing my old merrells with either these or primus trails.
Did you try them out and have any thoughts?
I have had a pair of hydras for almost a year now and love them.
@@epardee20 I bought and tried them on around the house for a couple days. They were just too tight around the ankle if I was wearing anything but the thinnest socks. I guess for a warm-weather swim-run shoe that's fine but as an all-purpose multi-terrain hiking shoe they were just too much of a faff to get my feet in and out with socks suitable for cooler temperatures.
had my eyes on these, I am looking for my first pair (toe spacers arrived yesterday :-) )and because I live near the sea I like the idea of being able to walk anywhere. Thanks for the review
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
Nice quality video and beautifull scenary. Lack of photage of the shoe ... you are nice looking, but it is the shoe i am here for
These are the perfect hiking shoes I was waiting from Vivo for the summer! Hiking, canoying, kayak, rafting….with the Michelin outsole! My only (little) complain would be about the colors…. they are a bit strange… they same design without the white parts, just a black and red shoe would be amazing.
I couldn’t agree more - they’d be phenomenal summer hikers, think you’ll get a pair?
I’m inclined to agree on the colours, for me an army green x black pair would be 👌🏽 BUT it’s a small price to pay for how good they are 🙌🏽🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject without any doubt I'll buy these ones. I agree with you that a army green with black would be f**cking amazing and cool... :(
Could not disagree more. Man, what an uncomfortable plastic clog this is. Returning them straight away.
@@2-meter I agree with you. The primus trail do feel much better. I don't know what to do...
Awesome Vid! Would be great to see more of the shoe next time! = )
I love both the forest ESC (Magna and Tracker), but both are more suitable for hiking in mild and cold condition. If you hike regularly in the tropics, those might not be the best option. Wet and light rain wouldn't to much to leather boots, but constant heavy rain and the heat favour the plastic and fabric hydra. It will dry out quicker after being soaked while being more breathable. The hydra is also cheaper and looks more "sporty". You can certainly bring them to the gym and no one would bat an eye.
That being said, if I get a single hiking shoes, I would certainly go for either the magna or tracker. Leather is just much more durable in many circumstances, and very few hike in the hot, humid tropic anyway. They also look and feel much better, makes the mountain of cash you pay for feels worth it. I got the tracker because I spend most of my time in the tropics, but I would advice any serious hikers to consider Vivo's more expensive option. I also find it strange that the Magna seems to be out-of-stock most of the time compare to the magna and tracker.
Incredible video. Breathtaking scenery and great info on the barefoot movement! You’re selling me on it
Cheers brother 🙌🏽 - I’ll have you over on the dark side in no time 🚀
Great quality video!! Can you wear these for daily use? Hospital, office etc
Hi Clem,
Do you know if Vivo have any plans of making a 'normal' Primus Trail with this Michelin sole? That would be an excellent shoe. I swim barefoot (oddly enough lol) so don't need a weird hybrid upper.
Great question and honestly - I'm not sure. You'd think they would at some point, but I also can't recall ever having seen an ESC sole on a fabric bodied shoe, so there could perhaps be an attachment hurdle to overcome.
I'll keep me ear to the ground and let you know if I hear any rumblings though as that would be a real unicorn!
@The Barefoot Strength Project Thanks. The Primus Trail has a plastic upper too but I take your point, maybe they're still trying to figure out how to marry a beefy sole with a lighter, less structured upper or possibly not even thought of putting a grippy sole on a normal trail running shoe. I quite like the FG sole for versatile trail use but when I'm with other people, anybody with a Vibram sole and deeper lugs has an obvious advantage and I would end up arse over tit if I attempted to keep up the same speed as them. Which makes Vivobarefoot for me a no go for anything competitive.
I asked Vivobarefoot if they were going to do so. They replied that they don’t know and that the testing stage can take quite some time. It would be a perfect trail runner for hiking.
Just found some on Amazon for under 100 bucks. Can’t wait to try them out.
That’s an unbelievably good deal
1:22
Let's all take a minute to appreciate that background
It is a gorgeous part of the world!
Did a 10km trail run up a boggy mountain, a pair of these would have weighted me down less.
For sure, I'll be doing a full follow up video on the tech specs in a few weeks but they're crazy light and drain water on a level above anything I've come across so far. Well worth considering for any future trail runs you do in future 🙌🏼
I love the look of these but I fear my feet have splayed beyond the fit of the last used in this ESC sole, I heard it was pretty narrow for a barefoot shoe on the original hydra a few years ago. They’d be perfect for an upcoming very boggy 50k, if I could get a good fit. How have you found the toebox width compared to something like their Primus trail II?
Hey Paul,
I just grabbed both pairs and pulled the insoles for a side by side comparison and the ESC insole is an exact match up with the Primus II insole in terms of length and width. It was however much more perforated presumably to help with drainage so if your feet work well in the Primus Trail, these could be a great option for your ultra
Are there any rough spots inside this shoe which might cause rubbing or blisters when you are going long distances and not wearing socks? I have the Vivobarefoot Primus Knit Trail shoes and there is one spot which rubs and causes blisters if I don’t wear socks.
It’s hard to say without having done it but there is much more rigidity to the structure of these than the Primus Knit so I would imagine if you have a pinch point on those you’ll likely have a similar pinch point on these as well
There is right on the ankle. I actually sold my pairs after 2 runs only and the wounds took a month to heal. Really disappointing when paying so much for a pair of shoes. Btw, the second run was with socks and plasters with extra cotton on the ankles but as soon as it got wet it started tearing again.
How best to dry these Hydra ESC’s after amphibious activity? I use them for hunting mud crabs in Blue Mud Bay East Arnhem
Sole down, insoles out and preferably in a well ventilated area - shouldn’t take long!
I like this Errol Flynn, look-alike guy. I think I’m gonna go out and get me some new vevo hydras today. Thanks for the informative video :-)
Did you feel any extra friction and tension on the ankles? I did 2 OCR events with those and I got wounds on my ankles that took a month to heal. And I'm not new to Vivo's as last year I completed a marathon in the Primus Trail FG II and before buying the Hydra ESC I tried a size up and down.
As for the hydro capabilities I was also left disappointed. One km after being in water they were still soaked and heavy.
Would be nice to hear / read stories of people who have used them for at least 100 km.
Hey Jason,
No I didn't have any of those issues, were you wearing socks that came up high enough on the ankle to act as a barrier between the shoe and the skin?
I've definitely found the material on the Primus Trail FG knit to be softer than the Hydras so can see how it would create more friction than those. How long were your OCR's?
As for 100km+ athletes, I've put about *300km on these shoes now, they're holding up well. A little wear on the sole but thats my own doing from running between trails on concrete but the material is otherwise in great shape and bedding in nicely.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject first run was 10k on beach with sand, water from the beginning, and no socks. Second a week after, also 10km, water, socks, cotton pads stuck on the wounds + plasters. It pushed right through as soon as socks and shoes got soaked.
Glad to hear they've worked out for you, tho. For me they will remain an expensive and painful experience.
@@jason.vasilev ah dude that was an error - always wear socks on sand, the higher the better, especially if you’re planning on getting wet and sandy! Hope the wounds heal up okay and you give them another go (with socks) once they do 👍🏼
how were the trail fg II? Im planing on getting one of the trail shoes for a OCR aswell
@@medi8001 besides the marathon, I've done 1 OCR with them, and they were simply remarkable. No slip, super good grip and comfort. The race there started with 5m drop in water, but no sand on the course. I also wore socks and had 0 issues, besides the discomfort of wet feet. Now I've bought a new pair of those, but for primary hiking as I'm done with OCR.
love the channel's new name 👍
Thank you Cesar 🙌🏽
Hi. Thanks for sharing. Which would you choose between the Hydra ESC's and the Magna Forest ESC's for hiking in the mountains where you'd go through a few knee deep river crossings? How would you compare the grip on the Hydra ESC's compared to the other Forest and Tracker ESC's?
That's one hell of a question! If we're talking multiple knee deep crossings where you are going to get unavoidably soaking wet boots/shoes, hit up the hydras as long as you're in a warm climate where they'll dry. If not, get the magna forest ESC's and take them off for the river crossings!
What do you think about using these as football shoes, are they durable enough and do they perform well on muddy surfaces
Great video, Clem. I saw these were coming a while back and forgot about them. Very cool! Would like to see more of the actual shoe when you’ve had a bit more time with them. 👍🏼
Cheers Ste! If you get your hands on a pair, they're awesome. There'll definitely be a follow up video on the tech specs and capabilities in a few weeks. Got a trip to Morocco first to blast through the Sahara and then scramble up some big hills in the Atlas Mountains, hoping to get some awesome content out of it, keep your eyes peeled 🙌🏼
Really great video
Thank you mate. I appreciate it!
What bag are you using? and have you tried the Magna Forest ESC or are these only in womens? Interested to know your thoughts against trackers. Thanks
British military backpack, don't have it with you so couldn't tell you the size but they're hardy things.
I have tried the Magna Forest ESC's, infact I even went as far as buying a pair. Brilliant boots, I tend to lean more towards the Tracker Forest ESC's for when I do actually wear boots though as they're a bit higher on the ankle and if I'm not wearing full boots I'll hike in Trail running shoes, but I very much see the use case for them as warmer month hikers or city winter shoes.
I should mention an old friend of mine used them to walk 100,000 steps in a day and they held up VERY well, so no doubting their capabilities
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject thank you. I might get another pair of trail knits or all weather trails and get some trackers for the winter…
Nice overview of barefoot style shoes, but to be honest, I was hoping for a review of the Hydra escapes compared to other barehoot swim-run / trail running / hiking shoes.
I used to use the merrel trail gloves but I don't like the more recent design changes (from 3 to 5) and after purchasing a pair of forest tracker escapes to hike the west highland way in winter . . . I'm considering getting vivobarefoot replacements for the trail gloves, which are my do it all (except winter hiking in wet conditions) walking and hiking shoe.
Do you think the hydra escapes are a good choice? Those thick lugs should mean a looong lifespan and good grip in mud. Low water absorbancy and quick draining must mean they are very breathable and so should be comfortable in summer and quick to dry if I do get wet.
But the primus trails also look quite nice . . .
Hydras are legit. I've had mine for almost a year and love them.
Can you tell me if I should order a size larger when choosing these shoes when it comes to hiking?
It depends if you plan on wearing thicker socks, I don't and ordering true to size meant a perfect fit 🤝
So these are not waterproof, they just have good drainage? Do vivo have any good goretex type shoes? I need a waterproof barefoot for UK winters
Yes, they're designed as swim-run shoes so the goal is for them to get wet (whilst swimming) but have the water drain out of them ASAP once you're back on land. Definitely not a winter shoe!
They don't have any goretex shoes but I have personally used the Tracker Forest ESC's (not waterproof unless treated) and the Tracker II FG (waterproof as standard) in English and Canadian winters with great success.
I just bought these shoes recently and everything was cool except the rubbing on the back of my heel did this happen to you and also how do I solve this
Both heels or just 1?
Most people have one foot slightly bigger than the other one, so your if only one foot it could be smaller which is a looser fit. One option is to get shoe spacers, they are a pad that sticks to the back of the shoe to bring it down half a size.
If both, try shoe spacers on both pairs to provide a snugger fit around heels
Hey thanks for the video! I'm trying to choose between these Hydras and a pair of the Primus iii all weathers. I trail run, but I was also hoping I might be able to play softball in them too, given they seem to have pretty decent tread. I was hoping you might have a take on which way I should lean here. Any advice would really help! thanks!
No worries at all!
Tricky choice - I’ve never played softball BUT I suppose it depends on how seriously you take it. If the answer is very seriously, then the hydras will act very similarly to cleats, the grip is just on another level which is particularly noticeable with rapid changes of direction at full tilt. If it’s just a bit of fun and you like doing distance trail runs on a regular basis then the sole on the trail FG will last longer the that on ESC, or if you’re often running on wet terrain, the all weathers will keep your foot a LOT drier (the hydras are designed for swim/run so let water in as easily as they shed it out).
Hopefully that helps, if not, flip a coin or pick which one you think looks best. They’re both epic 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Mate thank you for your speedy reply, this has really helped. You make some compelling points. I think I am leaning towards the All Weathers in this moment, they look more supportive than the fly knit desig of the hydras, but your point about the grip is very tempting. This may be a silly question, but would you advise against using these shoes to run on roads? I guess it will speed up the wearing of the soles?
I have these , great for a wolf run!
No idea what that is but sounds cool! Enlighten me?
These shoes look amazing for the outdoors but I was wondering how they would perform in the gym as well. Especially for CrossFit style workouts. What do you think ?
Hey Suleiman, you could use them but there are better options IMO. Check out the Primus Trail Knit review I did, they’re my go to & code GT10 will get you 10% off the website 🙌🏽
Try the tracker decons I've seen some reviews like them for crossfit.
Love it brother ✊ Cracking video and scenery. Can't wait to give these a spin 🦶
Thank you mate - I reckon you’re going to love them 🙌🏽
Considering them, but i only need them for running, do you think they are better for that then vivos other trail running shoes?
Honestly I don’t think so, the Primus Trail Knit or all weathers would be my go to unless you’re doing swim run or soft ground trail running where these would really excel. Hope that helps 🙌🏽
When comparing the HYDRA ESC shoes to the PRIMUS TRAIL II ALL WEATHER FG, I've found the latter to be far more comfortable. It's a bit disappointing that the HYDRA ESC comes at a higher price point despite being less comfortable overall. The only notable advantage of the HYDRA ESC is its suitability for swimming.
Is it good for going to the beach and island hopping? I'm fm 🇵🇭
You’d probably find the Ultra III Blooms better suited to that 🙌🏽
Hey man, there's no link in the description... or am I blind?
Hey Nick - no you're not! I got too excited and forgot to add it in, in there now - thanks for the heads up
what's the experience with rocks, pebbles and sand entering the hydras, while in water or on the beach? when in the water, how easily does sand and rocks enter the hydra shoes? what happens when rocks and sand get into the hydra shoes when in the water? unbearable? easy to remove rocks and sand? thanks
Not too bad tbh! The top section is almost like a knitted sock which fits the form of your foot keeping most the nasty stuff out. That said if you're running through deep sand etc. then a little is inevitable. I've found sand to mostly was out whilst swimming but any excess is easy enough to get rid of as these slip on and off making it a 10 second job.
Not had any issues with rocks so far.
Can i just run in them in the trail in the woods when its raining ?
Absolutely, but you’ll get wet feet as they’re designed to let water in (and out) quickly.
The grip is on another level though
Compared to Vivobarefoot Primus Trail SG, are Hydras more comfortable and is the grip better?
In my humble opinion, yes and yes 👍🏼
These are sick.
Just got mine and returning them straight away. This is really not what I'd expect at that budget. The lace and snap are total b.s. - can't understand they even dare to ship something like that out. For the rest they're just uncomfortable, plastic clogs. They pinch the foot just above the toes when walking and as mentioned the plastic is just all around uncomfortable to wear. If they were cheap I'd keep them as swim shoes but there's now way I'm gonna walk in them.
I was in the Lake District a few weeks ago, absolutely gorgeous peaks and the Forest Esc's smashed it- no blisters no knee pain only muscle soreness (the good kind). Avoided a dip in the lakes wasn't going to soak up my only pair of Vivo's and these would have come in clutch. Not a fan of the orange, would like to see a more water themed colourway in the future! Anyway, great to see you putting the new Vivo's through the ringer literally a day after I was aware they had released, really enjoyed the video hope you had a great time in the Lakes, thanks!
That's awesome Ryan, do you know which peaks you ended up bagging? I'm lucky enough to call it my home when I'm in the UK so the lake dips are almost compulsory 😆.
They've got another colour way called 'Seagreen' (if you follow the link in the description you should be able to find it easily enough) but it'll be cool to see what other colour ways they add in future. I think an army green and black would be mega..
Pleased you enjoyed the video!
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Hey Clem, didn't attempt any peaks but they certainly held up in deep mud and on slippy rocks.
I'll be heading back soon once I've geared up to tackle as many peaks as I can.
I did visit the Aira Force waterfalls and after a week straight of rain it was crashing on the rocks like thunder, really epic. I came up against slippy stones, rocks, mud soaked paths and the Forest Esc's dug in and never budged once.
I'm convinced they have the best traction sole ever put on a shoe. In my opinion they should have it on all of their trail line.
Thanks for the heads up, that colour way is much more my style, perhaps a Vivo x Creature of the Black Lagoon collab in the future? 😂
Jokes aside I agree an army green and black is a must for this shoe, as well as a coyote brown desert version as well, cause who wants to have to take your shoes off after a scorched trek in the dunes. With these just straight into water no issues. I hope you're going to do a specs and more in-depth video on the shoe soon, would love to know more about it!
Thrilled to see your channel exists! Coverage on these newer shoes from vivo is definitely lacking.
Would you mind sharing your thoughts on these new Hydras vs. the Primus Trail All-Weather FG III’s for all-around use and also specifically for trail running? It almost seems like these Hydras can do everything the Primus All-Weather FG III’s can but then a bit more
Can you use them without socks?
In theory, sure. The material is pretty hardy though so if you're doing any distance work it would be more comfortable with
Subbed 10 seconds in
Thank you brother, appreciate it!
What nose strips do you use?
Breathright extra strength nasal strips, only 1 nostril works so it’s a massive help when exercising 🙌🏽
Why not try using some fabric sticking plaster on the soles of your feet for the ultimate in bare foot experience. Seems like you may have some spare looking at your nose. Keep up the good work and thanks a million.
😂😂. I have actually seen a product like that kicking about, basically a foot shaped 3M plaster - don’t think my nose one would get me very far 😆
How long would one has to go totally barefoot to get comfortable with it? I think eventually you would actually be able to master it
Great question. There’s a few factors at play, how malleable the underside of your foot it is (allowing it to ‘mould to the environment you’re walking on), how much fat pad you naturally have (genetic), whether your feet are naturally calloused or smooth and pain tolerance.
Personally, I can walk on pretty much whatever now and it’s taken about 2 years to do that with most of the adaptation just coming from wearing minimal shoes.
But for sure when I started going completely barefoot it was very much a case of find the biggest patch of grass possible and stay on that 😂
How quickly do they dry?
Depends how hot the clime you’re in is - quicker than anything else I’ve tried, that’s for sure!
Just got mine today for a Swim&Run race later this month. They looked huge compared to my Merrel Barefoot. but after putting them on (1 size bigger than foot-deformer shoes) they fit pretty nicely and are tight in the ankle. The sole is Michelin and looks super durable, specially when comparted to my GFs Innov8 she just bought that seem like after a 1 km run in rocky terrain the sole will be flat.
brother, I want to reffer you when buying Vivo shoes. They require email and Name Surname. Could you tell?
And put it into all video description, I suppose many of us will be grateful
Problem is these shoes last about three months for a runner
Maybe don't use the trail sole on pavement then..
check xero shoes they have some crazy big sole version but more smaller toes box sadly
If you buy from vivo, you can return for replacement every few months (not that you should have to).
From their website: "So confident, we've introduced a 100 day trial to all orders. If you change your mind within that period, we're happy for you to return your shoes for a full refund with no hassle."
❤
DAMN BRUH
Did you wear socks in these?
On long hikes/runs yes (Injinji toe socks) but not on shorter runs unless I wanted dry feet in which case I'd wear some waterproof socks
You know the review is bought and paid for when he talks about the shoes for 10 minutes and doesn't mention how notoriously difficult to put these shoes on. I had to remove socks, and even then it took me 10 minutes because the sock-like structure on the neck doesn't expand much and the hole is tiny. Essentially, I's forcing a UK size 11 feet through a tennis-ball size hole. Not unline child-birth. Much labour.
I think you’ve got your shoes confused. Their old model (the Tempest - more like an ankle boot) absolutely, pain in the ass to get on, but these are easy as anything
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject No I didn't. I have a pair of Hydras, alright. And it took me a solid 10 minutes to put on. I went for a 1-hour walk, now I have the worst blisters ever because, well, no socks. These shoes are horrible, mate. They look great. They're definitely high-quality. But they're horribly uncomfortable and painful.
@@TheBarefootStrengthProject Do they at least give in after a few days and become softer, comfier?
@@EtcilYasam are you sure you got them in the right size? You should have about a half to a full thumb distance between the end of your toe and the end of the shoe.
Otherwise I haven't got a clue what the problem is but vivo does have a 100 day return policy, so just send them back for a refund/different pair
Hail Hydra😂
😂😂😂😂
200 freaking dollars? Even barefoot industry is insane.
I agree, it ain’t cheap BUT for the sheer volume of activities you can use them for, I think they’re unbelievable value for money.
Especially when you consider the similarly priced Nikes/Adidas etc can only really do one thing well
if i was walking with these in wet grass, how quickly would my feet get wet ? also how insulating are they ? thanks
You're asking about water resistance and insulation on a water shoe? That's full of holes? Are you trolling?..