Serious hiking calls for serious shoes. But standard hiking shoes are stiff and narrow and I just can’t tolerate that! Instead I wear barefoot hiking boots that don’t compromise on function but have an anatomical fit to keep my toes and ankles free. And no blisters too!
Here are my top recommended barefoot and wide toe box hiking boots & shoes that perform both in comfort and functionality on the trails.
The Best Barefoot Hiking Shoes
This isn’t just a collection of links – I own and hike in all of the barefoot hiking boots and shoes here. After years of testing and hundreds of barefoot shoes in my closet, I am confident these are the absolute best wide toe box hiking boots on the market, no matter where you are in the world. Hiking just feels so much better when I’m in naturally fitting boots!
Here is what I look for in my barefoot hiking shoes:
- Totally flat zero drop sole.
- An anatomical wide toe box shape.
- A flexible sole (sometimes I go for a thick sole for weather protection/durability, other times I like a lot of ground feel)
- Durable materials
- Good tread with grip
- Breathability and/or water resistance (depending on the weather)
Let blisters be a thing of the past! Barefoot hiking boots let your feet move naturally while still protecting you from the elements.
Psst, if you’re looking for wide toe box boots for every day, check this roundup out!
There are options here in a variety of thicknesses, widths, and specs so you can find something that matches your preferences and your activity level – whether that’s something to wear on a serious backpacking trek or for casual weekend strolls on your favorite trail. These are the best wide toe box & barefoot hiking shoes on the market!
Vivobarefoot Hiking Shoes
Waterproof Option | Leather & Vegan Options | Sizes US W5.5 – M15
Use code ANYASREVIEWS25 for 25% off
No one does outdoor shoes like Vivobarefoot. They walk a delicate balance between durable, practical and yet still flexible and thin enough to let you feel the earth. You can find boots and shoes for different terrains, climates, and seasons and all function excellently. Between all the members of my family, we’ve tried just about all of them.
My favorite is the Vivobarefoot Tracker Leather – they’re an excellent durable barefoot hiking boot with natural water resistance, lugs for traction, and a removable thermal insole. They’re IMO the best combination of barefoot feel with function. And for warm weather, the Primus Trail is the favorite in our house. They all shed mud well and are up to the task.
While the Vibarefoot hiking boots are extremely functional and durable, they feel a little stiff at first for a barefoot hiking shoe and take breaking in. We have multiple pairs in our house that are several years old and I can confidently attest to them becoming soft and flexible over time.
Vivobarefoot’s hiking shoes come on 4 different outsole types:
Here you can see the different outdoor soles in order of their tread depth. I find the FG and SG work well on all terrains and I can wear them all day easily, while the Esc sole is extra rugged and durable (a little beefier than I need most of the time). Escape is a great choice if you do high mileage and/or extreme terrain.
Sizing & Fit
Read this post to learn all about foot type and how to measure your feet!
- Runs true to size
- Fits average width feet best (men’s models are wider than women’s).
- Medium volume over the arch (try the Tracker Forest Esc if you have high volume feet)
My husband, son, and I all have our normal size in all our Vivobarefoot hiking shoes & boots.
Xero Hiking Shoes
Waterproof Options | Vegan | Sizes US W5-M15
Xero has a few barefoot hiking boot and shoe options, but my favorite is the Scrambler line. They have a softer fit and feel than the Ridgeway line and are easy to wear. Especially the Scrambler Low EV, which is the most flexible option with a forgiving mesh upper. The waterproof options fit a little snugger (because of the membrane), so I tend to prefer the others.
Xero’s barefoot hikers are a little more cushioned than Vivobarefoot and need less breaking in, but aren’t quite as technical. However, they’ve been long lasting for me, are at a lower price point, and I appreciate the medium thick sole for just a bit more between me and the ground.
Sizing & Fit
- Runs true to size
- Fits medium width (men’s models are wider than women’s).
- Works for most foot volumes from low to high. I was able to cinch them well on my low volume feet.
Compared to Vivobarefoot, Xero has a straighter cut with more width and volume in the midfoot and heel area.
Freet Barefoot – Extra Wide Friendly
Waterproof Option | Vegan & Leather Options | Sizes EU 37-48
Get 10% off any Freet Barefoot shoes with code AnyaFreet.
Freet Barefoot has several barefoot hiking boots and shoes that function excellently, including waterproof and knit options. The hallmark feature of Freet hikers is that they have a wide foot shape with plenty of space for all toes, while still being practical for outdoor use. The Chamois (above right) is new for 2025 and I am really enjoying them! The hardwearing leather upper is a little bit stiff (every waterproof boot I test is), but the fit is good and they feel quality.
Our lightweight favorites are the Howgill and Keld 2 (above left) -they are so soft and comfy with zero break in time and all the toe space. The Keld 2 is the most breathable, airy trail shoe in this list!
Sizing & Fit
- The boots run a bit small, but can vary between models so consult the sizing & fit description for each model before ordering. The knit hikers are true to size.
- Fits wide and extra wide feet.
- High volume – you can add extra insoles in different thicknesses to your order.
For more details on Freet’s sizing & fit, read my in-depth Freet Review.
Groundies Portland
Waterproof | Leather | Sizes EU 36-48
The Groundies Portland surprised me this spring. They have a roomy toe box, but are still fitted through the midfoot and heel. They are structured but soft, and the outsole has decent grip. There is not as much tread on the Portland as the above options I’ve reviewed, but they are a good balance between barefoot feel and function.
They are similar to the Freet Chamois, but not quite as wide in the toe box and the outsole is a little more flexible, thin and grippy (the Freet Chamois has a deeper tread).
Sizing & Fit
- Runs slightly small because of the insulation and waterproofing. I have a size 38.
- Wide to slightly extra wide
- Medium volume
Lono Wild
Suede & Vegan Option | Sizes EU 36-46
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
The Lono Wild is a lightweight, soft suede hiking shoe that required no breaking in and was immediately soft on my feet – a rarity among leather hiking shoes. They have just a bit of cushion under foot, but there is still a lot of ground feel. Overall, I find them delightful to wear!
My one gripe is that the laces don’t tighten super easily over my low volume feet. It’s one of those oft overlooked but still important features. However wearing them with a pair of wool socks helped fill in any extra volume and I expect that the suede will mold to my foot making the shoe easier to work with. Worth it to not have any pinch points but still have good traction and stability.
Sizing & Fit
- True to size
- Wide fit, but not extra wide
- Medium volume
Be Lenka Barefoot – Extra Wide Friendly
Waterproof Option | Leather | Sizes EU 36-47
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off your Be Lenka purchase. They only accept returns from the EU and USA.
Be Lenka barefoot has two excellent hiking shoes. The first is the Be Lenka Ranger. This is a fleece lined, waterproof boot with a durable upper and rugged non-slip sole. They are great for people who want an extra wide fit, but I do find the sole a little bit heavier than I prefer. The Ranger can double as a snow boot too! And if you want the same shape and outsole, but without the fleece and waterproof membrane, the Nevada is a good option too.
If you need a barefoot trail shoe for warmer weather, the Be Lenka Trailwalkers is a lowcut option with a thinner, lighter outsole. These were recently updated to a 3.0 version, but my tester pair got delayed in transit so I have not yet tried them. I’ve loved my previous versions of the Trailwalker! But will update this when I can share specifics.
Sizing & Fit
- The Ranger runs slightly small.
- Fits wide to extra wide feet.
- Medium Volume, easily adjusted.
Merrell Vapor Trail Glove
Waterproof Option | Recycled Mesh & Leather Options | Sizes US Women’s 5-11 & Men’s 7-15
If you live outside the US click the flag at the top right corner for different regions!
Merrell is a US brand that primarily sells non-barefoot shoes, but also has a few good wide toe box barefoot models. The best known, and the one that my son backpacked Yosemite in, is the Trail Glove. It has a quality outsole with toe protection, a bit of water resistance for shallow puddles, and a breathable mesh upper.
The outsole is a little bit thicker and stiffer than many of the other barefoot hiking shoes reviewed here, but that can be useful if you want a bit more protection. They also have an even heavier duty model called the Wrapt for extreme terrains. Merrell has been a solid high quality brand for me for many years, even before I started wearing barefoot shoes.
Sizing & Fit
- True to size, but I sized up for more toe room
- Slim to Medium wide – not suited for extra wide feet
- Medium volume with removable insole
I sized up for a little extra width because I have wider than average feet. They are comfy for me, but I do feel my toes on the sides of the shoe.
Softstar Switchback II – Extra Wide Friendly
Leather & Wool Lining | Sizes US 5U-13U
The Softstar Switchback II has a soft, supple leather upper and thin wool lining for a comfortable fit with no break in time. It comes in two widths to fit average to extra wide feet. The outsole is thick but flexible Vibram Megagrip – it has serious traction and durability that should last for many, many miles. And if it does wear out, you can have it resoled by a professional cobbler (this is the only barefoot hiker listed here that can be repaired easily)!
I love that they conformed to my arches and ankles easily with no rubbing, and leave space above my toes (no more pressure from above like in the previous version). My only complaint is that they come in whole sizes only, and I would fit best in a half size. Mine are a 7U or Women’s 8 and they are a little too big and long, which makes the sole feel a little heavier and clunkier. I am thinking about going to the size below, because the leather should mold to my feet even if they are a little bit short!
Sizing & Fit
- Runs true to size, but only comes in half sizes
- Fits wide to extra wide feet – comes in two widths.
- Adjustable foot volume.
Best Wide Toe Box Cushioned Hiking Boots
Here are some excellent wide toe box hiking shoes that have more cushion and a little more stability than in your typical barefoot shoe. I make regular use of this type of shoe for long hikes or difficult terrain. They are also favorites for people doing ultra hikes or multi-day backpacking treks. And they can be great for people who want a wide toe box but are not comfortable in the other features of barefoot shoes.
Altra Lone Peak – Extra Wide Friendly
Waterproof Options | Vegan | Sizes US Women’s 5.5 – US Men’s 16
The Lone Peak from Altra is a well loved zero drop trail and hiking shoe line that features a generously wide toe box and flat but cushioned outsole. They are one of, if not the, best in terms of technical specs and have been used by many on major thru hikes and ultra trail running distances. A friend of mine borrowed my All Weather Mid (shown above right) to hike Kilimanjaro last year, and Justin wore the waterproof Lone Peak to backpack Yosemite!
I find the shape and width of them to be an almost universally good fit and the thick sole can be a life saver for long distances or if you just need more sole underfoot. They are secure through the midfoot and heel, but leave plenty of room in the toe box – just the way I like it! And the standard Lone Peak even has an extra wide option that has more upper material, to allow for a thicker foot.
Sizing & Fit
- Runs true to size, but if in between go up.
- Fits wide, and also comes in an extra wide width.
- Fits all foot volumes.
Lems Trail Shoes
Waterproof Options | Leather & Vegan Options | Sizes US W6-M15
If you’re outside the US, shop Lems EU here.
Lems carries a variety of trail shoes with a wide to aaaalmost extra wide toe box and thick, durable outsoles. My personal favorite is the waterproof Lems Boulder Boot Grip. They have a generous fit and strike a good balance between structured traction and flexibility. I wear mine all the time when it’s cold, wet, and muddy. Justin also is a huge fan of Lems hikers both on and off the trails.
If you want something even more rugged, there is the Outlander boot, and coming soon – the Trail Thrasher (low top). There is a removable insole if you need more space, and you can swap it out for a sheepskin one to stay extra cozy. Please note that the insoles that come with these boots has a 3mm compressible heel rise.
Sizing & Fit
- Runs small – They have a reliable sizing guide, so follow that. I usually size up a whole size in Lems boots.
- Fits wide feet – I recommend choose the Widest Natural Shape models, unless you have slim feet.
- High volume – I wear leg warmers with mine usually to fill in the extra space.
One thing I love about Lems shoes is that they have a lot of space above the toes, which makes them feel very roomy without being too big on the rest of the foot.
Bahe Rediscover
Waterproof | Grounding | Vegan | Sizes EU 36-47
Use code ANYA for 10% off
The Rediscover from Bahe is a moderately cushioned, more traditional-feeling wide toe box hiker. It has an 18mm total stack height and is fully waterproof, but it is fairly stiff and takes some time to break in. Particularly around the ankle is not as soft as I would prefer, but if you are someone who wants that structure and stability the Bahe Revive is a good wide toe box alternative. Oh, and they have grounding capabilities!
Sizing & Fit
- True to size
- Fits wide feet
- Medium volume
Best Budget Barefoot Hikers
Saguaro Shoes
Water Resistant | Vegan (faux leather) | Sizes EU 36-46
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off
Saguaro has a waterproof barefoot hiking boot and some low cut hiking shoes that are more breathable. All are pretty soft and flexible, with decent traction. You can see the difference in quality and materials compared to more upscale hikers, but these do the job!
Saguaro does change and update their models frequently – the Brave boot shown above is already on version 5!! But they always have something available for hiking that is budget friendly after my 15% off discount code.
Sizing & Fit
- Runs small – we size up consistently.
- Fit medium wide feet – other Saguaro shoes on different outsoles fit wider.
- Works for all foot volumes (removable insole).
Which Barefoot Hiking Boots Fit Extra Wide Feet?
Curious which options here are the widest? The following barefoot and wide toe box hiking shoe brands are extra wide friendly. Find my reviews of them in the main article above!
- Softstar Switchback II (choose Wide width)
- Be Lenka Ranger
- Altra Lone Peak (choose Wide width)
- Freet Barefoot – all are extra wide friendly
See below all the barefoot hiking shoes reviewed here in order from narrowest to widest, starting with the Merrell Trail Glove and ending with Softstar.
Everyone will experience width differently, but I did my best to generalize it here. Keep in mind that this is organized by width in the toe box, and not width in other parts of the shoe (like midfoot and heel).
Fit & Waterproofing Hacks
When it comes to barefoot hiking boots I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Here are a few of my best pointers that will improve the fit and longevity of your shoes.
- Err on the larger size – feet swell when you hike so it’s a good idea to buy a half or whole size bigger than you typically wear. This also allows for socks and insoles.
- Grab an extra pair of insoles – with thin barefoot shoes these can really come in handy if you’re on extra hard terrain or your feet just need a break.
- Learn how to waterproof your shoes – waterproof shoes all have an expiration date and will start leaking eventually. If you get yourself some waterproofing products you can really increase the usefulness of your boots.
For more tips on fitting hiking boots, here is a guide from Terradrift.
Honorable Mentions
While the above are my personal top recommendations, you might want to check out the other barefoot hiking shoe options that are available. Here are all the others that meet our happy feet criteria.
Ahinsa Chitra (EU) – Vegan, and available in regular and extra wide! Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Feelgrounds Patrol (EU) – These work well as a hiking boot (and stylish too!) but are a little stiff in the heel and ankle for me. Read my review of them in this post! Use code ANYA5 for 5% off your first order
Saltic Fura (EU) – Really thin outsole, with a great toe box shape!
Shapen Stormis (EU) – Use code ANYA5 for 5% off. These are very nice boots with an extra wide toe box, new for 2025. I like almost everything about them, but they are very shallow over my toes and press down on my big toe. Shapen does not accept returns outside the EU.
Sole Runner Transition (EU) – Good shoes! Easier to order from for EU residents.
Vibram Fivefingers (US) – They make several trail shoes. Sometimes I’ve found that the more durable outsole on five finger shoes is hard on my toes, so for that reason I left them off the main list.
The Best Kids Barefoot Hiking Shoes
In my experience, barefoot hiking boots for kids is often not necessary unless they are serious little mountain goats. With their center of gravity so close to the ground, additional tread often doesn’t add more stability. So we focus more on durability and water resistance when choosing practical hiking shoes for my kids. You can find our top recommended Barefoot Shoes for Kids here, which we use both for hiking and play.
But if your kids do more serious hiking, here are a few barefoot hiking shoe options for kids.
- Vivobarefoot – Several practical options from Vivo! Use code ANYASREVIEWS25 for 25% off
- Merrell Trail Glove
- Freet Tufee – 10% off with code AnyaFreet. This one comes in and out of stock. If you live outside the US, shop the Freet Tufee here.
Whether you’re a casual weekend hiker or are doing serious ultras distances, there are barefoot friendly hiking boots that still getting the job done. Because even the most durable options in this list still have a zero drop sole and wide toe box.
243 thoughts on “The Best Barefoot Hiking Boots & Shoes for Outdoorsy Folks”
Hello Anya,
I stumbled across your page on my hint for kids weatherproof hiking boots. I’m taking my 3 children (ages 4, 6 and 8) to Ireland in the spring. We’re going to be hiking a lot on grass and rocky terrain in the rain. I’m really struggling to find a suitable barefoot shoe. They have never worn conventional shoes before. Any suggestions? Thank you for you help.
Hm, I’m thinking that something like the Koel Rana. You can also find more options directly from Koel, but they’re more expensive (and I have a code with Mugavik making them even cheaper, ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off). Just know that the Koel Rana fits low volume. Other options are Vivobarefoot Fulham or all weather bootie, and Be Lenka Panda. I would say waterproof is what you want to focus on, but not rubber boots because those aren’t secure enough for hiking. There are more water resistant kids boots listed here you can check out: https://anyasreviews.com/complete-list-waterproof-barefoot-shoes-rain/#waterproofresistant-shoes
Have you tried any of the Koel adult shoes? They look good!
Yes! I just got myself 3 pairs of them because I knew I needed to try the brand out. They are on the slimmer side, I would say medium width but can fit wide feet. It looks like I’m going to need to wear them barefoot to have enough toe splay room. Slightly stiff, but I wore one pair out for a few hours this week and they were already softer by the end. The leather is super nice. Still trying to learn more about them but haven’t been able to communicate with anyone from Koel yet (I ordered my boots from Mugavik Barefoot, a retailer). If you’re on social media, I have a short video and a photo of them up today on my Facebook and Instagram stories. Will do a mini review in an email newsletter soon.
That’s all very useful to know! Will check the IG story.
Thank you for sharing!
Do Freet only work for narrow feet?
I contacted one of the retailers with my measurements (27.5 cm long, 10.4 wide at the max) and they said the Ibex would be too narrow for me in the right size.
Freet is a wide fitting brand in general, not many people report back that they are too narrow. Do you have other barefoot shoes? If you have extra wide feet and have trouble fitting in other brands as well, then it may be that you need to look for extra wide options. But it’s also possible that they will fit you fine and the numbers are throwing everyone off a bit. It’s really common, because width measurement is often taken from the insole which sits under the foot. If you combine that with a measurement gotten from a foot tracing (which usually adds a few mm because of the width of the pencil) it’s easy to look at a size chart and believe the shoes will be too narrow, when they actually will fit fine. I can’t say for sure, but my guess is that those foot dimensions will work well with any Freet shoes.
Hi Anya,
I am considering purchasing my first pair of barefoot shoes, since I have bunions and am way more comfortable in a wide toe box. I need something for light hiking (trails that my 5 year old can handle), but waterproof and with good grip since we have muddy/snowy winters and springs, and I currently carry my toddler on my back. I would love if these boots also looked nice for casual winter wear to save me some money. I am most interested in the Lems Boulder Summit, the Feelgrounds Patrol, and the new Belenka Winter. Would the Winter work as a hiking boot, or is the Ranger a much superior choice (I just don’t find the aesthetic as versatile)? Warmth is of less importance since I’m usually moving around a lot and my kiddos only last outside for so long. Of these options, what do you recommend? I have wide-ish feet and I think medium to high volume, and I think I’d want some cushion since I have a bone spur on my calcaneous from a long period of plantar fasciitis years ago (it doesn’t bother me often but I feel nervous going super thin since it’s a bigger purchase). Thank you so much for all your reviews and everything you do!
Hi Emily!
The Lems Boulder Summit has a small heel rise (I think 4mm) so they aren’t zero drop. But they do have a thicker sole. Feelgrounds Patrol I think might be perfect for you. I have really sensitive heels and found they were a little stiff back there for me, but Justin loves his and wears them all the time. If you don’t often feel your bone spur, they probably won’t bother you (and you can put a little moleskin or heel pad back there too). Be Lenka Winter is also a good choice, but they have a slightly thinner, harder sole than Feelgrounds. They function well as a hiking boot, but because the lining is pretty thick and warm so people usually size up. Finally, you might like the Groundies Williamsburg. The sole is a little thinner than Feelgrounds, but they are lighter than both Feelgrounds and Be Lenka. We have a number on sale at Anya’s Shop
Thanks for your advice! Do you find the Belenka Winter to be too warm for spring? Like 40s and 50s F? For me that’s when it’s just cool enough that I don’t want wet feet, but I also don’t want sweaty feet. The natural materials appeal to me a little more than their vegan counterparts. And the fact that you sell them in your shop, along with discounted seconds, is less intimidating than ordering internationally when I’m not 100% sure of size
For me, those temps are too warm for the Winter. I would be more comfortable wearing the Be Lenka Ranger in those temps.
Hi Anya, different Emily here! I just wore my Lems Boulder mids hiking today for the first time. I’ve had them for a few years, but finally tried them out for hiking today because my other hiking boots are too narrow and not foot shaped. I was looking at the Lems site for them other options, and saw the Boulder Summit. Their site says the Boulder Summit are Zero Drop. I couldn’t find a review of them on your website, did you measure them as having a heel rise that they advertise as not having? I’m considering getting them (not pleased with the Xero hiking boots I tried), but I’m hesitating after seeing this comment from you that they have a heel rise
Yes, it’s a bit of a weird situation. They are not technically zero drop, but they are what is called “effective zero drop.” That means they have a slight cushion under the heel that flattens out to be flat with the weight of your body when you step. To me, that’s not zero drop. But it’s a shoe feature that comes into play with cushioned shoes because there is more material under foot. Ultimately the research suggests that such a small heel rise shouldn’t affect your biomechanics in a significant way, but I prefer more minimal options. All of this is to say that if you want an option that is more robust with a technical outsole then the Boulder Summit is fine. But you can also find options that are similar in technical specs and more “barefoot.” This fall Lems will have a few more options that actually are zero drop and on their widest shape. Also, if you haven’t tried the Xero Scrambler Mid they are fantastic. I will be updating this article to include this newer Xero shoe soon.
Wow. That was a really long comment. I’m so sorry for being obnoxious
I’m on the fence between Be Lenka trailwalker and Softstar Primal RunAmoc. I’ve gone barefoot for over 2 years now and find my feet splay & foot have gotten wider. So much that I find my big toe and little toe are hitting the sides of my current barefoot shoes. As a result of this, I’m looking for hiking trail runners with width. The Softstar seems to be the best in the wide version. Which would you recommend? Thank you for any assistance and your reviews.
The Trailwalker has much more volume/vertical space, and it overall a very roomy shoe. I like them a lot. The Primal RunAmoc is indeed very wide, but it sits low over the tops of the toes so some people find that uncomfortable. If you high volume feet I would for sure say Trailwalker. If you just want lots of width and don’t need a lot of volume in your shoes, then the Primal RunAmocs.
Hi Anya, Thank you for all your reviews I really appreciate them! I was wondering if you had any suggestions or might consider doing a post on a conundrum I find myself in quite regularly doing field work. Basically, I have to stomp on shovels and stand on ladders which becomes uncomfortable very quickly in shoes with flexible soles. I also do a lot of hiking/bushwacking up and down steep, slippery, rocky, down tree-covered slopes so some foot protection is important.
Basically, my golden unicorn boot would have the protection and durability (waterproofing would be cool too) of a traditional hiking boot upper with a wide toe box, lots of vertical space and a zero drop, flexible in the toes, but not the midfoot sole. And good traction. I’m assuming this shoe doesn’t exist but I was wondering if you have ever run across anything that might be close!
For context, I wear my Altra Lone Peaks (without an insole, makes them too bouncy and squishes my toes flat) for all my hiking and running. I’ve been wearing a pair of Lems Boulder Boots for the duration of this long, wet, cold winter (they really are waterproof!) and they are good for walking around town. I definitely have to take the insoles out in order to make enough vertical space for my toes in those and that also makes them too sloppy to wear hiking steep hills at work (bummer). Also, the soles are not that grippy. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated!
The Bruins come to mind as possibly the only option that meets all that criteria: https://anyasreviews.com/bearfoot-bruin-review-barefoot-work-boots-that-are-actually-functional/
Hi,
is there any evidence about ankle support? I am looking for a shoe for survival/bushcraft in the forest. And i am curios about ankle support. There are low profile ones (like the Groundies All Terrain low) or high ones (like the vivo forest esc).
In terms of stability, i am not sure. The only advantage would be, that high profile shoes may protect your ankles more from water or rocks.
What are your thoughts?
I agree with the section of video you shared (there are always exceptions of course, some individual people might need more ankle support. But for the most part we can try to build strong ankles instead of supporting them). I wear hiking boots that come above the ankle only to protect me from banging into rocks and tree branches, which is basically what all the taller boots on this list do. They don’t really hold my ankle in place. In fact, I often will not lace my boots all the way up to the top and stop just above the ankle bone so that I’m able to move a little more easily.
Here is a short statement on ankle support, which made me curios: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02Ahz-Bc5Us&t=438s
This is a great article..thanks for writing it.
I have the wandertoes mk1 and love them.. they’ve lasted 5 years of almost daily use. I’m sad they’ve made the sole LOTS thicker on the mk2 model but think I’ll give it a go when mine finally die.
Always been tempted to try softstar but they’re expensive if you’re UK based like me.
Vivo annoy me as they are not for real barefoot enthusiasts IMO as they’re far too narrow. My feet have become a lot wider after a decade of barefoot shoes and vivo crush my feet.
Freet are cheap and dont last at all well but are crazy comfy.
Lems have a new hiking boot released in the last month or two that looks great… also worth a look.
Hi Anya,
Thanks for your reviews, they have helped me a lot!
I’m going hiking in Scotland this summer, and I’m afraid my Freet Mudees will be too slippery in Scottish weather conditions.
I considered buying Freet Tundra or Ibex, but I read they are narrower than the Mudee, which is a tight fit for me (I upsized already). What’s your take on the sizing?
I have the Be Lenka Winter for cold weather, and was happy with them on snow and ice. Would you recommend the Nevada for hiking, too, as it has the same outsole, but no warm lining?
All the other options I found are far too narrow for my feet.
Thank you!
For me Freet runs on the small side in hiking boots, but I’ve found that sizing up makes them wide enough for me. They are however not as wide as Be Lenka boots. The Nevada has the same outsole, so functions really well in a lot of different weather.
Hi Anya,
So happy I found your detailed review. I’m super new to hiking and am currently training to climb Machu Picchu. I am
wondering what shoe you would wear for this climb? I’m all for zero drop shoes and would love your opinion. Thank you!
Oooh Machi Picchu is on my bucket list! If I were hiking Macchu Picchu I would consider taking either the Vivo Tracker Decon or the Xero Scrambler (which is coming in a short height this fall). If you want a little bit of cushion I would go for the Xero Scrambler, but the Vivo Tracker is higher quality/more durable.