Not a fan of these. Got the textile one recently and the sole started getting delaminated on the bends after only 5km of hiking uphill. This is absolutely unacceptable for a 200+€ boot. Additionally, there's a lack of structure in the top, meaning that you really need to tighten the laces on downhills as otherwise your foot will slide forward. This however, due to a lack of padding on the upper, and only 3 lace holes, results in a lot of pressure on the metatarsal and inner ankle. I had visible reddening on the skin after the downhike. To top it off, the heel really digs into your calves if you point your toes down. The skin on my achilles was quite irritated.
just got my Jim green african trooper, they're a barefoot traditionally made boot while also looking amazing. Just got them waxed, now ready for a hike!
You dont break in the shoes as in "weathering" the boots, but rather, no two different shoes are the same so you feet need to become accustomed to them. Else you risk blisters and chafe due to your skin being too soft in the areas the shoes are chafing. Your feet can also change several sizes depending on if there is pressure on them vs not. Hiking in new shoes is a sure fire way to get bloody chafes just a couple km in. Just brought a new pair of boots for the winter. First time i wore them i got a blister. Used another pair for a few days, then tried them again, got no blister since my body straightened that part.
The sizing of these shoes is quite similar to the ESC, but I find the ESC to be a bit more generous in fit. Have you had a chance to try any of the Vivobarefoot range? With their 100-day return policy, you have the peace of mind to return them if they’re not the perfect fit. Don't forget, you can grab a discount using the code in the description! ✌🏻 Let me know if I can help any further
Thanks for the review, quality as usual 👍🏻 I'm in the market for something to get me through the winter...more for wet/cold school runs and walks at the Wildlife park! Considering these, Gobi Hiber or Magna ESC...anything I should consider when looking at these? How's its the AT's sizing compared to the Gobi Sneaker (as that's the only vivo that fits my width!)
Thanks for the kind words! 😊 For winter, all three are solid choices. The Tracker Forest ESC will give you the most rugged durability and traction, great for wildlife parks. The Gobi Hiber is more casual and warm, perfect for school runs but not as grippy for rougher walks. The Magna ESC strikes a balance between both but leans more toward performance. As for sizing, the AT is generally a bit roomier than the Gobi Sneaker. If the Gobi fits your width well, you might find the AT similar or slightly more spacious. Hope that helps 👍🏻 let me know if you have any more questions
Love the look of them, and glad to see more and more barefoot shoe brands popping up. It’s a sign people are waking up to their foot health. I might pick a pair of these up next year for summer casual. Just wish they went down to a EU 35 for my recently barefoot converted tiny footed missus to get some too. 😔
Glad you like the look of them! It’s awesome to see more barefoot brands gaining traction, definitely a positive shift for foot health. Hopefully, they’ll start offering smaller sizes soon so your missus can join in too. Fingers crossed for a EU 35 in the future! 😊👣
I can see why they put a rubber protective rand around the boot but I remember it rubbing my heel with the tracker winter sg. I had to send those back because of the pain. Only on one foot which was weird. That's why I ordered the tracker esc now instead. But I like the look of these and they seem very versatile. Probably not as good for snow as the tracker II fg though. Looks less padded. Anyway, nice review Owen. Keep it up 👍
None of us are perfectly symmetrical, and that’s part of our unique charm 😊The Tracker ESC are a great choice for both comfort and versatility. I hope they work out better for you. Appreciate the kind words and glad you liked the video 🙏🏻
I picked these up in the Bracken (because it’s obviously the best colour) 😜. Seem to be the quiver killer boot. Really glad they removed the membrane and insulation as it made the older tracker fit small and too warm for summer use. I’d rather have a boot I can customise with sock/insole choice. I think they probably omitted the stitches as it helps with waterproofing and may not be necessary as the bond between the sole and rand is better than directly in to leather. My older Tracker SG’s which these borrow a lot of design from had the rand and the bond was good with the sole. Would really love them to release a trail running shoe with this new AT sole 🤞
Completely agree Paul, Bracken is definitely the most iconic colour! Great choice. Fingers crossed for a revised trail running shoe with elements of the new AT sole 🤞🏻
Great insight.. Good to learn the AT sole has rec’d an upgrade.. So little grip in mud! I returned earlier boots and went Forest Esc. I think some of the running/outdoor range need a revised sole too
Thanks for watching 🙏🏻 I appreciate it! It’s always valuable to consider different perspectives. Have you explored the benefits of wearing barefoot or minimalist shoes?
I completely agree. The contemporary design really stands out and feels fresh while still prioritising performance. What features and models do you like most from Vivo?
@@OwenJackson beside barefoot feeling the flexibility of the shoes. Using Magna lite for hiking in the alps and primus for daily wear. waiting for the vivo tracker textile now to see if it’s good for colder conditions.
How are you enjoying the low version? Haha, I totally get that! It’s like you think one pair will be enough, but then you realise you need a different pair for every occasion...and don’t even get me started on colours! Thanks for watching and being part of the conversation 🙏🏻
Thanks for watching and sharing Karlis. I’ve found the sizing pretty consistent with this model, but I understand how it can feel different depending on individual anatomy. What colour did you go for, and how are you enjoying them so far now you've got a better fit?
Finally! I was waiting for someten to review these new boots, thanks for that Owen👏🏻 Do you think they would hold up for multiday hikes in rocky terrain? Would the forest esc be a better option in that matter? Appreciate your opinion, thanks!
I'm glad the review was timely 🙏🏻 As for multiday hikes in rocky terrain, these AT’s offer good traction and I’m really impressed with their performance so far. However, if you're expecting really rugged conditions with a lot of uneven surfaces, the Forest ESC could be a better option, as it's specifically built for that kind of terrain with enhanced grip ⛰️ What type of terrain do you usually hike on, and how long are your hikes typically? That could help narrow down the best choice for you 👍
@@OwenJackson thanks man! I'm planning a trip to Patagonia next year so I think I'll go for the ESC for better traction👌 Would love though if they had the same rand as this new model!
Totally agree, the rand would be a great addition on the ESC. I'm sure they will serve you well 👍🏻 Patagonia will be an amazing trip, all the best 🙌🏻 Don't forget to grab a discount, linked in the description ✌🏻Don't forget, you've got a 100 day return policy should they not be right for you
It also depends on the context and terrain. If you're going hiking in the nearby state park for an afternoon, a lightweight boot that allows you to strengthen your feet and ankle muscles is probably a good bet. If you're going for a multiday backpacking trip along rocky and mountainous terrain, you're better off with a thicker stiffer boot, as those support muscles in your feet and ankles will eventually tire out.
Thank you for sharing your perspective. Great points about the importance of context and terrain when choosing footwear for hiking. Thanks for being part of the conversation 👍🏻
Great video, short and to the point. This is a struggle, most people are so rigid in their thinking that even though this all makes sense, they don't even consider it. I've gone barefoot about a year ago, I simply can't use "normal"- stiff, hurtfull, horrible shoes. I've done a couple videos about it as well, people just say "oh but I can't wear those, I will hurt myself".
I just got these and yes they area bit roomy but i just put some nice organic 100% cotton socks and they feel amazing..im not into tight boots anyways..my first pair of vivos and im well impressed 👍..i would highly recommend these and they really do feel almost like your walking Barefoot..vivo took things up a gear with these boots :)
I’m so glad to hear you’re loving your first pair of Vivos Thomas. It’s great that the roomy fit works well with your cotton socks. Enjoy your barefoot adventures 🦶🏻 😊
I think you are mostly right. Shoes are meant to protect your feet. That also means if you carry heavier luggage than your feet are strong, you need stiffer shoes to protect against injury. Of course, the best would be to train your feet's muscles, but not everyone has time for that. So, use stiff shoes, but also know when not to wear them!
Thanks for watching and being part of the conversation Julien. Balancing our current abilities while gradually building long-term strength and mobility definitely makes sense. What are you current go-to footwear choices?
@@OwenJackson I transition a year ago. My everyday wear are Softstar primal sawyer. I also have a pair of Softstar primal runamoc with vibram megagrip soles, for hiking. I felt my limit recently in a multi day hike with an 8Kg backpack.
@@OwenJackson I think it is so they can sell us ever more cushioned shoes to solve the issues the old sure cause. I am still horrified at the poor shoes for children, they are so stiff! Keep the kids out of shoes as much as I can :-)
I think there's a lot of detail missing here - particularly who you are and how you hike. I have 3 pairs of hiking shoes: New balance v10: low cut trail running shoes used for every day outings and maybe some day trips on good trails. Then vivo magna trails: mid cuts offering some ankle support which is needed for old running injuries. These are for rougher trails and for when I'm carrying a heavier pack - shortish and overnight hikes. Then at the end of the spectrum a pair of proper La sportiva boots. Stiff, thick soles, hi cut for heavy packs, multi-day treks and off trail. They give the necessary ankle support that I need because aside from injuries mentioned, I'm not used to carrying weight, and certainly not on uneven surfaces. They also protect my foot - I think of it as armor- I've often finished a hike with bruised feet when my other shoes are out of spec. Fine for a day, not great if there's more days ahead. And then durability. I've had them for a decade and they're still going to go much further. I'm also confident that rough terrain won't penetrate them like a lighter pair. Yes, they cost a bit, bit it's an investment well made.
Thanks for being part of the conversation, Anton. It sounds like you’ve found a great balance for your hikes. In the end, what matters most is getting outside, and choosing gear that helps the individual do that is a personal choice. Wishing you all the best on your adventures!
@@OwenJackson I mostly own their traditional boots, but I highly recommend their barefoot African ranger, I've been hiking with them, In peak and lake district and they are amazing. Tho, they are less. Barefoot than most others simply because of their stitched down construction, which also makes them resoleable. Keep in mind that it's fully leather so it's not waterproof so I recommend using wax which also darkens the leather or suede pray for water resistance!
Hi Jesse, I also enjoy wearing blue light-blocking glasses 🤓 This is a great alternative if you're without your glasses or want a no-cost option available to anyone with a phone. Have you got any other strategies as part of your nighttime routine? 😴
@@OwenJackson Thanks for asking Owen. I think you’re nighttime routine should start when you wake up. First of all make sure you get morning light in you’re eyes (no sunglasses) and make sure you walk outside at least 30 to 60 minutes a day. Secondly work out consistently which will make you’re body relax in the evening (don’t work out 3 hours before sleeping). In the evening I like too also take a really hot shower which will make my body cool down which is great for melatonin production. It is also important to try to do relaxing things and have relaxing thoughts 2 hours before sleeping and don’t drink or eat 3 hours before sleeping. Last of all, I tape my mouth, I wear a sleeping mask and I have my window open in the day before sleeping. What about you? Little side note: I made a reaction on you’re motus flex and gobi sneaker video, but I didn’t had a reaction from you yet. I was still hoping for a response, if you don’t mind…
That sounds like a great routine! I prioritize something similar. As an Oxygen Advantage Advanced Instructor, I'm familiar with the benefits of mouth tape and breathing-I've documented some of it here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-RF9EsHTIsko.html
Hey Johnny, thanks for the info 👍 Nature has some amazing solutions, and leather being a great conductor is just one example. It’s interesting how things tend to work better when we stay close to nature. Have you noticed any other benefits from using more natural materials? Are you a barefoot footwear fan?
You’re saying here that the ESC fits big. I’ve seen a few people say that this model is wider. But do you also have more space in front of your toes compared to other boots in your size? Thinking about ordering two sizes from vivo but perhaps they block people from purchasing in the future if someone do that every time 😄😬. Wear them both outside and return one of them within 100 days.
Thanks for your message! Yes, the ESC does run a bit wider, which is great if you have wider feet or just prefer more room. As for the space in front of the toes, I personally found there was a bit more than usual, but it’s not excessive, just enough to feel more comfortable without being too loose. Ordering two sizes to compare sounds like a smart move, especially since Vivo has that 100-day return policy. I don't think they’d block you from purchasing in the future for doing that, as long as you’re following their return guidelines. Hope that helps and don't forget to grab a discount listed in the description ✌️
I bought the same pair of shoes a few years ago. I think it's a bit dangerous to suggest "you don't need any breaking in and they're good from day one". I was powerlifting at the time and going on several of hikes every week, but after a couple days of walking around my neighborhood in those shoes, the muscles at the bottom of my feet started feeling like they're tearing apart. I can easily imagine someone hiking two miles into a trail and getting the feeling, then needing to overextend themselves to get back out after the pain sets in. It's an easy way to up with an injury. Everyone is different, people require different adjustments to new equipment, especially when that equipment challenges the biomechanics developed in a person since toddlerhood. They're good shoes, I love lifting in them, but making them work for hiking was something I haven't been able to do, despite agreeing with all the philosophy behind barefoot shoes. I wish the topic had more nuance to it.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and taking time to watch the video. I agree everyone's body reacts differently, and transitioning to barefoot shoes does require careful adjustment and gradual exposure for many. The video is intended to highlight the general differences between regular and barefoot hiking shoes, rather than the specifics of transitioning to barefoot. I completely agree that a gradual transition is advised to avoid discomfort or injury. I actually have a dedicated video that covers this in more detail: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-FTC8y5EWh_w.html. What are you current footwear choices for various activities?
Great choice, I think the white suits the shoe really well... I just can't be trusted 🤭 I was torn between the Asana and the Gobi, let me know your thoughts when they arrive 👍
Hey Matt, it’s a valid point. The Michelin rubber on the ESC offers better grip and durability, especially if traction is a priority. With the Tracker AT priced similarly (£200 vs. £210 for ESC), it’s fair to wonder where the value lies. I think the Tracker AT focuses more on daily wearability and versatility, plus it’s a brand-new design, so some of the cost may reflect tooling and development. What are you leaning towards? I’ve got a dedicated AT video coming soon. What fits your needs best?
Thanks for watching Wade. These are actually from NEXT. They don't make these specific one anymore... gutted. Decathlon have some good options too. Let me know if you find anything 👍
Just picked up the new Tracker AT, love them, they’re like a love child of all my favourite Vivo walking boots. And also finally after years of pestering managed to get my other half into barefoot shoes, she ordered two more pairs the same day after trying them 😆. I had to restrain the ‘told you so’ look on my face.
That’s awesome! Sounds like the Tracker ATs are a perfect blend of what you love in Vivo boots. And welcome to your other half into the barefoot family. How’s she enjoying them so far?
Have a pair of Forest Tracker ESCs ....3 days old and have walked nigh on 20 miles so a fair distance straight out of the box .... really comfortable and pretty waterproof for a non waterproof boot ! One walk was 3 hours mostly walking through wet grass and only the top of the toe area and a little on the side let moisture in but that was towards the end of the walk . One thing to note is that the boots need some leather oil or even before you walk in them for the 1st time .
Glad to hear you're getting good mileage out of your Forest Trackers! Great boot 👏🏻 I've been using renapur across my leather boots, have you got any recommendations as to boot care products?
You deserve more views and subscribers with these high quality videos of barefoot shoes. Looking forward to see the full review of the tracker leather AT 👍 Are you going to try the tracker MOC as well?
Thanks, I really appreciate that 🙏🏻 The full AT review is coming soon... I can see the appeal of the MOC, I don’t have plans to get them, unless some kind 'sole' send me a pair, then I’d love to try them. Are you considering the MOC?
@@OwenJackson Ok:) I’m not sure about the MOC yet because I haven’t seen much information or footage of it at all. But they look nice and a bit different with the stitching.
Thanks for watching Peter. The Tracker AT's are still new for me and enjoying them thus far. I’ll be doing a dedicated review soon. I had the stitch parting issues with the original Tracker FGs, but the Magnas and Tracker ESCs have been holding up well. Which model did you notice the glue parting on?
@@OwenJackson glue coming off are the Primus Lite Knit, and two pairs of Primus Trail Knit FG Mens, i've had them repaired a few times however they keep on coming apart lol. The magna and tracker esc's look like stitched on soles. Hiking in Scotland I found the Tracker esc's didn't have the protection from scuffing rocks. the Tracker AT's do have the upper leather protection and should be awesome for hiking. They look great too!
It sounds like you've had quite the experience. Glue issues can definitely be frustrating, especially after multiple repairs. Lono, in my recent video have a novel solution to the high pinch areas. I agree, the Magna and Tracker ESCs are solid options with their stitched soles, and having that added durability for hiking is always a plus. The rand on the AT is a great addition and should offer more protection on high friction areas.
@@grantwilliams2912 I found the Forest Esc are solid for those boggy hikes in Scotland, especially going up or down hill. Good to know about the AT sole in muddy conditions.
Hello. I read that some people get black heels and ruined socks from the dye in the heel from this boot. The color is very hard to wash off apparently. Anything you have noticed?
Hey, I've been wearing these boots for two years and haven't personally experienced any issues with dye transferring. It could possibly happen if there's excessive sweat or moisture?
@@OwenJackson Ok good to know thank you. Yeah I guess it's because of moisture together with heel slippage. Or perhaps vivo used a different dye or if they are faulty. I hope it doesn't happen to me. I have a pair on the way to me right now.
