I’m pretty surprised to find myself writing a boot review but for those of us who encounter periods of time where Barefooting is not an option due to winter here’s an option.
I’ve used my VivoBareFoot Tracker FG’s for several weeks now. I’ve been out in -30C/-22F in them, have kept my feet warm and dry on very sloppy days, and I’m pleased with the light weight and comfort level they offer me so I can continue outdoor activities I’d otherwise be wearing a bulkier, less comfortable winter boot.
The -30C-22F moments have only been for an hour or so at a time and that’s constant movement. If I was going to be out longer I’d be looking at some kind of insulated boot cover to keep going. There was an insulated version of this boot on the VivoBareFoot website but I think they sold out fast. Wearing a thick winter sock doesn’t crowd my toes.
Speaking of crowding, there is none. The toebox is HUGE in these boots. It’s kind of interesting to experience footwear that feels roomy but doesn’t have a sloppy fit.
VivoBareFoot has a waterproof claim regarding these boots. They definitely kept the water out but being a thin leather boot I can’t say for sure how long they’d remain so. I use Zamberlan Hydrobloc to repel moisture and keep them dry.
Traction was better than I’d expected. Having a midfoot landing when I run makes for better traction than heel striking/pushing off the toes so I can’t comment on how someone with that running style will fare. The sole is quite thin and supple so there’s still a surprisingly good sense of trail feedback...I suspect removing the liner would improve that but at the expense of warmth.
They’re on the pricey side (about $335 Canadian).
I like them...
I’ve used my VivoBareFoot Tracker FG’s for several weeks now. I’ve been out in -30C/-22F in them, have kept my feet warm and dry on very sloppy days, and I’m pleased with the light weight and comfort level they offer me so I can continue outdoor activities I’d otherwise be wearing a bulkier, less comfortable winter boot.
The -30C-22F moments have only been for an hour or so at a time and that’s constant movement. If I was going to be out longer I’d be looking at some kind of insulated boot cover to keep going. There was an insulated version of this boot on the VivoBareFoot website but I think they sold out fast. Wearing a thick winter sock doesn’t crowd my toes.
Speaking of crowding, there is none. The toebox is HUGE in these boots. It’s kind of interesting to experience footwear that feels roomy but doesn’t have a sloppy fit.
VivoBareFoot has a waterproof claim regarding these boots. They definitely kept the water out but being a thin leather boot I can’t say for sure how long they’d remain so. I use Zamberlan Hydrobloc to repel moisture and keep them dry.
Traction was better than I’d expected. Having a midfoot landing when I run makes for better traction than heel striking/pushing off the toes so I can’t comment on how someone with that running style will fare. The sole is quite thin and supple so there’s still a surprisingly good sense of trail feedback...I suspect removing the liner would improve that but at the expense of warmth.
They’re on the pricey side (about $335 Canadian).
I like them...
