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Vivobarefoot TRACKER FOREST ESC

4.5 
Based on 18 user reviews

Sizing:

83% "Felt true to size"

Based on 6 user reviews

The VIvobarefoot Tracker Forest ESC are hiking boots that offer a minimalist feel for enhanced ground connection wherever you go. The leather hiking boots are best suited for those with wide feet and on trails with little to no wet conditions.

Most suitable for:

Hiking

Minimal Meter:

Pretty good minimalist shoe

What does it mean?

Manufacture Short Description

ESCape to connect. The Tracker Forest ESC is designed to work in harmony with nature, allowing you to connect to the most extreme forest and off-road conditions our planet has to offer. Escape the path well-trodden and experience how hiking is supposed to feel. Created in collaboration with wilderness experts from Wild Human and the Independent Adventurer.

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Vivobarefoot logo From 270$ See deals
Vivobarefoot UK logo From 210£ See deals
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Amazon logo From 226$ See deals
  • Review
  • Description

Review Summary

Vivobarefoot, an eco-conscious brand, created the Tracker Forest ESC without any extra padding or chunky soles. Users can enjoy hiking boots with better ground connections, thin soles, wide fit, and flexibility. The Vivo Tracker Forest is best suited for those who love to hike and go off-road, though those with narrow feet may find the boots uncomfy at first.

  • PROS
  • Michelin ESC sole offers great grip and traction
  • Made of renewable materials
  • Breathable upper that dries quickly
  • Thin and flexible sole for good ground feel
  • Feels comfortable out of the box
  • CONS
  • Not completely waterproof
  • Wide toe box might feel odd at first

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. 

Expert Reviews

  by 

Expert reviews

User reviews:

FAQ

What materials were used for the shoes?

The Tracker Forest ESC is made of wild hide leather, a Michelin outsole, and an upper made of leather and mesh lining.

Can I use the hiking boots on rocky grounds?

Yes, you can use these hiking boots on rocky grounds. Even with the thin and flexible sole, it offers adequate protection against rough terrain without compromising ground connection.

Are these boots okay to use if I have narrow feet?

The Tracker Forest ESC can be worn by those with narrow feet, though reviews say that the wide toe box may feel a bit odd at first.

Are the Tracker Forest ESC boots waterproof?

According to users, while the Tracker Forest ESC is made of naturally waterproof wild hide leather, it is only water-resistant at best. The boots are best known for their breathability and quick-drying features, though they can put up moderately wet conditions, like light rains or puddles.

Specs

Brand Vivobarefoot
Model TRACKER FOREST ESC
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Daily Use, Hiking, Strolling
Terrain Off Road
Eco Friendly Recycled, Sustainable Materials
Design ,Boots, Casual,Boot
Materials Leather, Mesh
Season Colder Whether
Sole Attributes Enhanced Grip
Water Protection Breathable, Waterproof
Weight 550g per 42 men's
Heel Toe Drop

Manufacture Short Description

ESCape to connect. The Tracker Forest ESC is designed to work in harmony with nature, allowing you to connect to the most extreme forest and off-road conditions our planet has to offer. Escape the path well-trodden and experience how hiking is supposed to feel. Created in collaboration with wilderness experts from Wild Human and the Independent Adventurer.

Manufacture Full Description

TOUGH ENOUGH TO FEEL

  •  Foot shaped (not shoe shaped), to let your feet do their natural thing.
    -WIDE to allow for natural stability
    -THIN to enable you to feel more
    -FLEXIBLE to enable natural movement
  • Sandwich mesh lining allows air to move freely around the boot and keep moisture away from your skin, passing it out through the pores of the leather or through the collar opening so your feet can breathe. Perfect for cold, warm and wet.
  • The Michelin © ESC Sole, offers extreme traction using high performance rubber and aggressive off trail lug design to maximise ground feel, flexibility and grip in the most demanding environments nature has to offer. The directional claw like lugs are positioned for ascents, descents and edge traction for traversing along steep inclines with a textured arch for zonal grip.
  • Includes a 50ml tin of Renapur made from a natural recipe.
  • ATTENTION the Tracker Forest ESC forest does not have a traditional waterproof membrane ‘but’ instead is putting breathability and weather resistance at the centre of the product performance experience. The combination of sandwich mesh lining with Wild hide leather that is then treated with all natural Renapur Leather Balsam (contained in the box) enables the leather to maintain its naturally water resistant qualities and allow your feet to breath with every step for unparalleled experience. Treat the leather regularly and your boot will age gracefully and look after your feet on every expedition you go on.
This is a part of our second collaboration with Michelin. ?The VV shaped aggressive lugs give multi-directional grip. Along the outer edges the lugs are split to dig your foot into aggressive terrain, cutting in with a knife edge grip.
Instead of waterproof membrane, the combination of sandwich mesh lining with Wild hide leather (naturally water resistant) allow air to flow inside the boot for more breathability. It also functions as a natural thermostat for cold / hot temperatures, creating a microclimate in the boot.
The Tracker Forest ESC was created, tried and tested in collaboration with wilderness experts to deliver the best possible boot for the changeable conditions of the forest biome, without compromise. Find out more.

Product Features

All Weather

Made using waterproof technology or water resistant treatment uppers with hi-tech seal.

MICHELLIN ESC OUTSOLE

The Michellin © Esc Sole, offers extreme traction using high performance rubber and aggressive off trail lug design, for ultimate grip in the most challenging environments. 2.5mm base and 7mm lug height designed to maximise ground feel and grip in the most demanding environments. The articulated toe lugs act like claws for the assent, while the essential heel lug is the critical break for steep descents. The lateral edge traction for traversing along steep inclines and textured arch provides zonal grip for technical off trail movement.

WILDHIDE LEATHER

Made from naturally scarred leather from free-roaming cattle sourced from small scale farmers.

WATER RESISTANT

Made using water-resistant constructions and non-absorbent materials.

made in vietnam

Made with feeling in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam.

natural materials

Made from renewable natural materials.

Revivo

Made for feet, not landfill. These were designed to be remade and reworn. When you are finished with them please send to revivo.com.

  • Description
  • Review

Manufacture Full Description

TOUGH ENOUGH TO FEEL

  •  Foot shaped (not shoe shaped), to let your feet do their natural thing.
    -WIDE to allow for natural stability
    -THIN to enable you to feel more
    -FLEXIBLE to enable natural movement
  • Sandwich mesh lining allows air to move freely around the boot and keep moisture away from your skin, passing it out through the pores of the leather or through the collar opening so your feet can breathe. Perfect for cold, warm and wet.
  • The Michelin © ESC Sole, offers extreme traction using high performance rubber and aggressive off trail lug design to maximise ground feel, flexibility and grip in the most demanding environments nature has to offer. The directional claw like lugs are positioned for ascents, descents and edge traction for traversing along steep inclines with a textured arch for zonal grip.
  • Includes a 50ml tin of Renapur made from a natural recipe.
  • ATTENTION the Tracker Forest ESC forest does not have a traditional waterproof membrane ‘but’ instead is putting breathability and weather resistance at the centre of the product performance experience. The combination of sandwich mesh lining with Wild hide leather that is then treated with all natural Renapur Leather Balsam (contained in the box) enables the leather to maintain its naturally water resistant qualities and allow your feet to breath with every step for unparalleled experience. Treat the leather regularly and your boot will age gracefully and look after your feet on every expedition you go on.
This is a part of our second collaboration with Michelin. ?The VV shaped aggressive lugs give multi-directional grip. Along the outer edges the lugs are split to dig your foot into aggressive terrain, cutting in with a knife edge grip.
Instead of waterproof membrane, the combination of sandwich mesh lining with Wild hide leather (naturally water resistant) allow air to flow inside the boot for more breathability. It also functions as a natural thermostat for cold / hot temperatures, creating a microclimate in the boot.
The Tracker Forest ESC was created, tried and tested in collaboration with wilderness experts to deliver the best possible boot for the changeable conditions of the forest biome, without compromise. Find out more.

Product Features

All Weather

Made using waterproof technology or water resistant treatment uppers with hi-tech seal.

MICHELLIN ESC OUTSOLE

The Michellin © Esc Sole, offers extreme traction using high performance rubber and aggressive off trail lug design, for ultimate grip in the most challenging environments. 2.5mm base and 7mm lug height designed to maximise ground feel and grip in the most demanding environments. The articulated toe lugs act like claws for the assent, while the essential heel lug is the critical break for steep descents. The lateral edge traction for traversing along steep inclines and textured arch provides zonal grip for technical off trail movement.

WILDHIDE LEATHER

Made from naturally scarred leather from free-roaming cattle sourced from small scale farmers.

WATER RESISTANT

Made using water-resistant constructions and non-absorbent materials.

made in vietnam

Made with feeling in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi, Vietnam.

natural materials

Made from renewable natural materials.

Revivo

Made for feet, not landfill. These were designed to be remade and reworn. When you are finished with them please send to revivo.com.

Expert reviews

User reviews:

Specs

Brand Vivobarefoot
Model TRACKER FOREST ESC
Product Type Shoes
Activity Type Daily Use, Hiking, Strolling
Terrain Off Road
Eco Friendly Recycled, Sustainable Materials
Design ,Boots, Casual,Boot
Materials Leather, Mesh
Season Colder Whether
Sole Attributes Enhanced Grip
Water Protection Breathable, Waterproof
Weight 550g per 42 men's
Heel Toe Drop
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