So yes, the idea works but you need to allow time for your feet to toughen up. It also requires quite a big mental shift in the way you think about footwear. You have to place faith in your feet rather than entirely in the shoes. That being said, I’ll still be reaching for my rigid leather boots in some circumstances, such as winter alpine treks. Verdict Our reimagined FG sole, made from natural materials, markedly improves all-terrain grip with deeper lugs, intelligent spacing and faster mud shedding. Roam with confidence across and beyond the urban biome.

One great eco factor here is the use of Woolmark merino wool in the upper. In a move away from the use of synthetic fabrics, Woolmark produces natural, renewable and biodegradable wool. In this sense it’s a circular fibre that doesn’t contribute to microplastic pollution in our oceans or on our lands. The Woolmark certification additionally provides ethical sourcing assurance, as well as a top-notch quality guarantee. In terms of performance, I was very impressed. When hiking on wet terrain, I felt safe (with almost no risk of slipping). Everyone else on the hike was constantly working hard to stay on their feet, but I had no issues. However without actually being an employee and overseeing their practices, that’s all I can say! Regardless, they’re far better than 95% of shoe brands out there! Overall

Hiking and trail footwear brands focus much time and attention to the underside of their footwear. There is a good reason for this. The midsole is for impact absorption, allowing you to walk in greater comfort for longer. But Vivobarefoot has changed the recipe. To ensure maximum grip while also connecting people with nature, feet first, the boots have a 2.5mm thin sole base and 4mm lug height design to enable the wearer to feel more, while the wide design allows for natural stability. The breathable, lightweight upper is made from Woolmark® wool and wildhide leather for extra flexibility, and the renewed outsole brings improved grip on variable terrain.

Insole: The Outlast Thermal Insole offers temperature-regulating technology; absorbing, storing, and releasing heat. This smart thermal layer responds to accommodate the naturally changing temperatures of the feet. Goods being returned in a condition other than Pristine and Brand New as sold may be subject to a diminished value fee if they are diminished as a result of your handling and use while in possession of goods. Allowing your feet to behave as they naturally would makes these great boots for climbing and perilous, narrow paths. They allow you to read the terrain through your feet so clearly and also give you noticeably better balance. In addition, you feel incredibly agile and a lot more efficient. I took them out as I wanted to experience the difference with barefoot shoes, but they did come with Outlast Insoles. In case you're unfamiliar with the brand and its footwear, Vivobarefoot shoes are all about reconnecting your feet with the ground. Unlike modern shoes with a narrow toebox, Vivobarefoot shoes have a wider toebox that allows your feet to spread. They also tend to have a thin midsole to help you feel the ground better.Vivobarefoot believes that more faith should be put into the evolutionary design of our feet. Our feet are fine-tuned for endurance, says Vivobarefoot, so why mess with it? In line with this train of thought, the brand produces shoes that allow our feet to make the most of their natural attributes: sensation, stability, and strength. P.S. I hope in a new better world without AI depopulation craze all people will have barefoot shoes, they are so amazing and I favour them by far! Reply The construction of hiking and trail footwear varies significantly, depending on use and terrain. But fundamentally, they all use a similar method: outsole, midsole, insole, and then all the parts that make the upper.