Shoe & Footgear Reviews: Hiking Shoe Reviews

Vibram FiveFingers shoes stand at the intersection of innovation and functionality, offering a truly distinctive experience for those who seek a more natural, barefoot-like feel without sacrificing performance. With their individual toe sleeves and ultra-minimalist design, these shoes allow for an unparalleled sense of foot freedom and flexibility, encouraging your body to move as it was meant to. Whether you're an... Read more

When it comes to adventure-ready footwear, striking the perfect balance between comfort, durability, and minimalist design is no easy feat. The Xero Z-Trail EV sandal promises just that—a lightweight, trail-tested alternative to bulky hiking shoes, built for those who crave both foot freedom and protection underfoot. Whether you’re a seasoned ultralight backpacker or simply searching for a reliable warm-weather sandal,... Read more

The Xero Prio has long been a favorite among minimalist footwear enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of comfort, durability, and versatility. Designed for those who crave a more natural connection to the ground without sacrificing performance, the Prio—one of Xero’s signature offerings—stands out in a crowded marketplace of athletic shoes. Whether you’re hitting the trails, training at the gym, or simply... Read more

The Lems Primal Eco shoe represents the perfect fusion of minimalist design, comfort, and sustainability for those seeking a natural approach to footwear. Crafted with the conscious consumer in mind, the Primal Eco's upper incorporates up to 50 percent recycled materials, making it not only a versatile and lightweight option but also a responsible choice for the planet. With a... Read more

The Lems Primal 3 is a paragon of minimalist design, a comfortable and accommodating home for a wide variety of foot shapes and sizes, and the next-generation version of its illustrious antecedent, the Primal 2. This uncompromising minimalist everyday shoe celebrates the inherent beauty and integrity of the human foot and permits it to function in a natural way, free... Read more

The Astral Loyak may just be the hybrid champion of the minimalist footwear field. Marketed—and highly touted—as a water shoe, the impressive Loyak is as functional on land as it is on a boat, SUP, or rocky creek bed. With its foot-healthy design features and its ultra-sticky Flex Grip outsole, the Astral Loyak promotes exceptional balance, stability, and foot function on... Read more

As lovers of the great outdoors, we know the importance of using footwear that aligns with our pursuits. As advocates for natural foot health, we understand the role that foot-friendly footwear plays in gait, posture, and musculoskeletal health and function. As appreciators of shoe aesthetics, we value the appearance of footwear and the role that this plays in us reaching for... Read more

In the world of natural foot health and minimalist footwear, Xero is a true pioneer and a company that remains committed to the core values that underpin its varied offerings. In the greater barefoot shoe sphere, it’s proven challenging for many manufacturers to incorporate foot-healthy principles and design features into a rugged hiking shoe, but Xero has taken a heroic... Read more

After over a decade of success with the Primal 2, Lems has now introduced a new iteration—a whole new model, really—to complement their beloved, zero-drop staple: The Primal Zen! With a similar yet modernized look, the Primal Zen is a reimagined Primal 2, equipped with a bit more cushioning and a slightly wider toe box. The flexible injection-blown rubber (IBR)... Read more

After testing the Lems Primal Pursuit over a range of conditions, climates, and activities, we’ve been impressed by its incredible versatility and its ability to handle everything we've thrown at it. Sporting a durable design and a foot-friendly environment, this shoe is thoughtfully constructed and out-of-the-box-ready for your next adventure. With the Primal Pursuit, Lems has managed to create an... Read more