Vivobarefoot TRACKER FOREST ESC

Detailed Review

The Tracker Forest ESC is Vivobarefoot’s second product from their ‘Extreme Survival Collection,’ made for adventurers. One of the hiking boot’s defining features is its Michelin ESC Sole, created in collaboration with Michelin, the known tire company. Furthermore, they have adequate grip and waterproof abilities, though reviews mention that the footwear won’t function best when overly wet conditions are involved. 

According to hikers, people looking for a pair of simple barefoot hiking boots will enjoy the special ground connection without compromising protection and traction.

Style and Design

Users have noted that, at first glance, the VIvobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC looks unique and different from other hiking boots. It has a minimalist design with a wide toebox and 10mm stack height, weighing 550 grams.

For a pair of hiking boots, it’s lightweight and breathable, which is attributed to the fact that Vivobarefoot did not use a waterproof membrane for the Tracker Forest ESC. Instead, the boots are made with wild hide leather, known for their natural water resistance. They also feature air-mesh lining for better breathability and quicker drying rates. 

Although the natural waterproof abilities help keep the boots dry, numerous reviews have shared that it will only get them so far. Your feet will get wet when hiking during a downpour or traversing up shallow streams. The boots are known for their breathability and moisture resistance, which has them dry quickly when exposed to moderately damp conditions.

Users also note that the boots come with a 50-gram tub of leather balsam to care for the leather footwear, enhancing its durability and performance.

As mentioned, the Michelin ESC sole is the boot’s defining feature, which is designed with multi-directional and claw-like lugs for a superior grip. Compared to other Vivobarefoot footwear with soles that have curved and smooth edges, the Tracker Forest ESC has a textured arch with edge traction for slightly trickier terrain. 

There is no underfoot cushioning, but it has a thin and flexible sole and padding along the lining, ankle, and heels. This helps strike a balance between comfort and ground feel. It also makes the footwear very flexible, with users saying they can fully roll the boots into a ball, though it still stays strong.

Comfort Level

Many consumers commented on how comfortable the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC hiking boots feel. They say their feet feel comfortable even wearing the boots right out of the box with added padding on the uppers from its interior linings. 

However, note that these hiking boots have a wider toe box, which is why some reviews state that those who have narrower feet may find the footwear to feel weird, or even ‘flappy,’ at first. That said, other reviews who have normal-to-wide feet like that the boots allow their toes to spread out, adding to its comfort.

Also, while the boots have a thin and flexible sole, there is still enough buffer to protect your feet from the rough terrain.

Fit and Sizing

As mentioned, the Tracker Forest ESC has a wide toe box, which contributes to its wider feet around the user’s toes. This means that the boots may lack a bit of precision, which can be improved the longer you use them.

Performance and Durability

The boots have a light and flexible feel thanks to the sole, but hikers note that this would also mean one will rely on their own feet and calf muscles to maintain stability and support around your feet. Those who go barefoot regularly may be used to this, but newbies will feel tired easily, especially when hiking long distances on challenging terrain. 

That said, users say that the boots offer an exceptional ground feel, with its flexibility being the defining feature here. The additional protection around the ankle and heels or the padded collar didn’t disrupt the boot’s flexibility. It adds to the way the boots can move very easily, encouraging more natural movement. 

Reviewers mention that the shoes are malleable, and the flexibility doesn’t affect the security of the boot. They say that the boots give off a more natural feel without compromising comfort or protection. 

As for durability, the wild hide leather can withstand various weather conditions and terrains. Users say that the Tracker Forest ESC can last for a long time with proper care and maintenance.

Final Call: Is This a Good Minimalist Hiking Boot?

According to reviews, the Tracker Forest ESC passes what they need in a barefoot hiking boot. They provide proper grip and traction with the Michelin ESC outsole, optimum flexibility, and a wide toe box for more natural movement. Consumers enjoy that the boots allow their feet to truly move and get in touch with the terrain for more memorable hikes and a new barefoot experience. 

Based on comments and reviewers, the Tracker Forest ESC is a good hiking boot worth trying, as long as hikers won’t use it in overly wet conditions or weather.