Exploring the option of barefoot hiking footwear? Vivobarefoot's latest offerings expand your choices, featuring two fresh styles designed for speedy hiking and the most challenging terrains.
Vivobarefoot, a renowned brand in the world of minimalist footwear, has recently unveiled two new additions to its hiking boot lineup: the Primus Trail Flow Mid and the Desert ESC. These innovative boots are designed to provide an authentic barefoot hiking experience while ensuring durability, protection, and comfort.
The Primus Trail Flow Mid: Versatile and Agile
The Primus Trail Flow Mid stands out for its low stack height, promoting excellent ground feedback and ankle support. The boots are crafted from water-resistant recycled polyester and spandex, ensuring both breathability and weather protection. The boots' design is ideal for dynamic movement on trails, making them a versatile choice for various terrains.
The Desert ESC: Lightweight and Tough
The Desert ESC boots, on the other hand, are designed specifically for hot, dry conditions, with a minimal sole for barefoot-like performance in desert or trail environments. Weighing just 1.2lb (551g) in a men's size 9, these boots are incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for trekking in arid landscapes.
Comparing Minimalist Hiking Boots
Here's a comparison of the Primus Trail Flow Mid, Desert ESC, and other popular minimalist hiking boots:
| Model | Sole Thickness (Stack Height) | Key Features | Best For | Price Range | |---------------------------|-----------------------------|-------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|-------------------| | Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow Mid | Thin sole, flexible | Ankle support, good breathability, durable | Versatile terrains, barefoot feel with support | Premium (roughly $150-$200 typical) | | Vivobarefoot Desert ESC | Very thin sole | Lightweight, breathable, ideal for dry/hot areas | Desert and light trail barefoot hiking | Premium | | Saguaro Brave I or Vitality V | 6mm + 3mm insole | Affordable, good basic barefoot feel | Medium to wide feet, budget-conscious | $50-$80 | | Xero Shoes Scrambler Low | 10mm | Michelin soles, good grip, lightweight | Narrow feet, low-medium volume foot | $110-$150 | | Altra Lone Peak ALL-WTHR Mid 2 | Zero drop | Spacious toe box, lightweight, good traction | Lightweight hiking, natural gait | About $160 | | Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 | More cushioned, less barefoot| High cushioning, flexible, durable lugs | Light hiking, comfort-oriented barefoot | About $200 |
A Step Towards Minimalism
Minimalist footwear is gaining traction in the outdoor world, and the Primus Trail Flow Mid and Desert ESC are no exception. By offering thin, flexible soles for a natural ground feel combined with durable and breathable uppers, these boots cater to trekkers who prefer to feel the terrain beneath their feet.
While the main materials in the Primus Trail Flow Mid boots are vegan, Vivobarefoot hasn't been able to confirm the status of smaller components like adhesives and dyes used in production. The Desert ESC boots, however, are made from moisture-wicking camel leather.
The Desert ESC boots maintain a barefoot feel while keeping the wearer from slipping, thanks to their ESC Michelin outsole and aggressive lug formation. The trail flow outsole of the Primus Trail Flow Mid boots aims to keep the wearer close to the ground without compromising grip.
In conclusion, for the best minimalist barefoot hiking experience, combining protection, flexibility, and natural movement, the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow Mid and Desert ESC are often preferred compared to other available models on the market. The Desert ESC boots retail for $295 (£240), making them a premium choice, but not outrageously expensive considering their unique features and design.
[1] Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow Mid Product Page [2] Vivobarefoot Desert ESC Product Page [3] Comparison of Minimalist Hiking Boots [4] The Rise of Minimalist Hiking Boots
- The Primus Trail Flow Mid and Desert ESC, two new hiking boots from Vivobarefoot, are designed to offer an authentic barefoot hiking experience while ensuring durability, protection, and comfort.
- The Primus Trail Flow Mid caters to trekkers who prefer versatility, as its low stack height promotes excellent ground feedback and ankle support, making it suitable for various terrains.
- Meanwhile, the Desert ESC is designed to provide minimalist performance perfect for hot, dry conditions, with its lightweight design and aggressive lug formation ensuring a barefoot feel without slipping.
- A comparison of various minimalist hiking boots reveals that the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Flow Mid and Desert ESC are often preferred due to their combination of protection, flexibility, and natural movement, despite their premium prices.
