Category: Mixed Terrain

Fits Correct ToesMixed TerrainNatural Foot ShapedNon-runningUncategorizedVivobarefootZero-drop

Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC

I deliberated long and hard before choosing the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC, considering both
the Tracker II FG and Tracker Winter SG as alternatives. I can’t say what either of those would have been like, but I am totally in love with my Forest boots! They are so comfortable from the off and fit true to size. I feel in touch with the ground without experiencing every flint or pebble underfoot. I don’t feel weighed down or constrained; just lightly protected and supported, and eager to take them on an adventure…

I have long been a fan of Vivobarefoot shoes – from pumps to Chelsea boots – but had yet to try any of their walking boots. I normally wear Keen’s Targhee boot, which have a good wide toe box (ideal for Correct Toes, as are the Tracker Forest) and feel relatively nimble on the feet. But they have a short life, and having consigned yet another pair to the bin, I decided to try something different.

The Tracker Forest is billed as suitable for ‘off-trail’ walking and expeditions. The ESC stands for
‘escape’, while the initials in the other boots I mentioned stand for ‘firm ground’ and ‘soft ground’ respectively. The boot has a Michelin sole, well-known in the outdoor/running world for superb grip. The sole base is 2.5mm thick, with lugs extending to 7mm compared to just 3mm on the Tracker II FG. All the better to gain purchase on sloppy mud or scree slopes.

The boots lace quite high up the ankle, and I did have concerns that they might rub across the front, but absolutely no chafing or rubbing has occurred. A minor quibble is that it takes a bit of effort to lace them with the right amount of tension. I’m not sure if this is because there are so many eyelets or if it’s the material from which the laces are constructed. It’s not an issue on local walks, but I’d make the effort to lace them properly on more serious hikes and climbs.

The boots are made from wild hide and are not billed as waterproof, only water resistant. So far,
however, I have not had wet feet, despite the ground being very muddy and riddled with puddles. I used Renapur leather protector, which allegedly boosts protection from water ingress, so maybe that has helped.

Wear and Tear:

I’ve had these for four months and there are no signs of wear and tear.
___

VERDICT:

At £210, the Tracker Forest ESC is a purchase not to be made lightly. So far, it’s one I’m glad I made. 94/100

Stats:

Weight – 566g – (women’s 41)
Midsole – None. Zero-drop
Outsole – Michelin with up to 7mm lugs
Insole – Standard and removable.
Flexibility – High
Fitting – Wide toebox. Natural foot-shaped last.

02Dec
Fits Correct ToesMixed TerrainNatural Foot ShapedTrailUncategorizedVivobarefootZero-drop

Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC

The latest VB trail shoe. Following in the footsteps of the Neo Trail, Breatho, Primus, and the Swimrun. The number one criticism of VB trail shoes is upper durability. But this shoe is bullet-proof. The...

02Sep
AltraFits Correct ToesMixed TerrainNatural Foot ShapedTrailUncategorizedZero-drop

Altra Superior 4

This is the Altra Superior 4.0. We loved the Superior 1.5, but were disappointed with the 3.0. In our opinion, it had too much cushioning, particularly for a trail shoe and this reduced its stability. The...

31Jul
Fits Correct ToesMixed TerrainNatural Foot ShapedTrailVivobarefootZero-drop

Vivobarefoot Primus Swimrun

The Primus Swimrun is the perfect marriage of the Primus Trail FG (firm ground) and SG (soft ground). I liked both of these shoes, but my concerns with each are answered in this beautiful combination....

14Mar
Fits Correct ToesInov8Mixed TerrainTrail

Inov8 Trailtalon 235 women’s

The Trailtalon 235 is Inov8’s current most minimal shoe, with a 4mm drop, similar to the much-loved – but no longer available – Trailroc 236 and 245. Happily, it’s a worthy replacement,...

27Feb
Fits Correct ToesInov8Mixed TerrainTrail

Inov8 Trailtalon 235

The Trailtalon 235 is Inov8’s current most minimal shoe. It is a suitable replacement for those who loved the Trailroc 235 or 245 and the Terraclaw 220. It differs from those shoes because the sole is...