The Best Barefoot Hiking Boot?
I’ve worn a lot of barefoot shoes over the years, but few have impressed me like the Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG. This is Vivobarefoot’s flagship hiking boot—a rugged, waterproof, winter-ready barefoot option that still lets your feet move naturally across rough terrain.
I’ve taken them on cold morning hikes through Yorkshire mud, wet woodland trails, and even casual pub walks on winter weekends. If you’re looking for a barefoot boot that’s tough but flexible, warm but minimal, and durable enough to justify the price tag—this review is for you.
🧭 Quick Summary
| Feature | Rating / Info |
|---|---|
| Price | £180 (RRP) |
| Weight | Approx 450g per boot |
| Stack Height | 6.5mm + firm ground lugs |
| Drop | Zero-drop (0mm) |
| Upper | Wild hide leather, waterproof lining |
| Fit | True to size / wide toebox |
| Best For | Hiking, winter, trails |
Buy now from Vivobarefoot UK
Or check Amazon UK (affiliate links)
🥾 First Impressions
Out of the box, the Tracker II FG feels like a real hiking boot—but without the bulk. The leather upper is soft but substantial, and the tread on the sole means business. It’s got that classic Vivobarefoot wide toe box and zero-drop base, but with a little more structure and protection than their casual shoes.
It’s immediately clear this boot is designed to take a beating—rain, rocks, roots, mud—it’s built for it all.
👣 Fit, Feel & Flexibility
Like most Vivos, the Tracker II FG fits true to size, though I went up half a size to allow for thick winter socks—and I’m glad I did. The wide toe box lets your toes splay naturally, which is critical on longer hikes and uneven ground.
The boot is surprisingly flexible for something so protective. You don’t get that overly stiff ankle support common in traditional boots—your foot and ankle still do the work, which is the whole point of barefoot hiking.
🌧️ Waterproofing & Warmth
This is where the Tracker II shines. The waterproof membrane has held up in some very wet UK conditions—muddy fields, soggy footpaths, and shallow puddles. Your socks stay dry as long as you don’t fully submerge the boot.
There’s also a thermal insole included (removable), which adds a layer of insulation. Combined with wool socks, my feet have stayed warm on hikes below 0°C.
For added warmth, I recommend pairing these with Injinji toe socks or merino liners on colder days.
🧗♂️ Grip & Ground Feel
Vivobarefoot uses a Firm Ground sole here—6.5mm thick with durable, multi-directional lugs. It’s not overly aggressive, but it does give enough bite on most terrain types, especially in mud or loose gravel.
You still get decent ground feel, though it’s obviously less than in a shoe like the Primus Lite. But for a waterproof hiking boot, it’s an impressive balance of protection and proprioception.
🔨 Durability
After months of heavy use, the upper has softened without breaking down, and the sole still looks great. Scuffing is inevitable, but the leather handles it well and even looks better with age.
The only minor wear point has been at the heel collar where the laces rub during on/off—but it’s cosmetic only.
Vivobarefoot also offers a Revivo repair service, which is a bonus if you plan to make this your long-term hiking companion.
👍 Pros & 👎 Cons
Pros:
- ✅ Fully waterproof
- ✅ Wide toe box + zero drop
- ✅ Surprisingly warm (with thermal insole)
- ✅ Built to last
- ✅ Great grip for trails
Cons:
- ❌ Pricey at £180 RRP
- ❌ Can feel bulky for those used to super-minimal shoes
- ❌ Leather requires break-in and care
🆚 Alternatives
| Boot | Key Difference | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion | Lighter, synthetic, fleece-lined | Check Amazon |
| Freet Mudee | Lower price, UK-made, also waterproof | View on Freet |
| Be Lenka Ranger | More urban-friendly, less aggressive sole | See Be Lenka |
🛒 Where to Buy
- Vivobarefoot Official Store – Best for full sizing and returns
→ Buy from Vivobarefoot UK - Amazon UK – Sometimes discounted
→ View on Amazon
🧠 Final Verdict
The Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG is, hands down, one of the best barefoot hiking boots on the market. It’s everything a barefoot adventurer needs: flexible, protective, weatherproof, and built to last.
Is it cheap? No. But if you hike regularly and want to stay warm and grounded all winter, it’s worth every penny.
Get yours from Vivobarefoot UK (100-day trial included)
Or check current deals on Amazon UK*
🧭 Related Posts
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Winter Hiking
- Vivobarefoot vs Xero – Which is Better for Trails?
- What Are Barefoot Shoes?
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