Shoe & Footgear Reviews: Hiking Shoe Reviews

Altra running and walking shoes are foot-healthy athletic footwear that encourage your feet to function the way nature intended. Featuring a healthy-foot-shaped toe box, these shoes allow your toes to spread and splay naturally, reducing the risk of common foot issues like bunions or blisters. The zero-drop platform—where your heel and forefoot are on a level plane—encourages a more natural midfoot or forefoot strike, which can alleviate pressure on your... 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 all manner of terrain, surfaces, and grades. The hydrophobic... Read more

When it comes to functional outdoor footwear, the Lems Boulder Boot is a true pioneer. Touted for its many impressive design features (as well as its comfort), the Boulder Boot has long been a go-to option for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to flash some style around town. Baked into this boot are a number of design features that are intended to let your foot do the walking, so to... Read more

Among functional footwear, the Lems Primal 2 is a true standout. Hailed for its foot-friendly design, comfort, and overall attractiveness, the Primal 2 has stood the test of time and continues to be one of the most popular minimalist shoe models in the Natural Footgear community. Lightweight, foldable, and easily packable, this travel-ready shoe has also become a favorite of folks on the move who want a truly multifaceted option... 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 of the encumbrances and attempted augmentations that are so prevalent... 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 wide toe box that allows for natural toe splay and... 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 exceptionally lightweight shoe that you hardly notice until you put... 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) outsole is ideal for a wide range of activities, and... 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 a given pair of shoes or boots. It's quite... Read more

When it comes to footwear that combines comfort, durability, and versatility, Luna sandals stand out as a top choice for anyone who loves running, walking, trekking, or living an outdoor lifestyle. These lightweight minimalist sandals are designed to let your feet move naturally, promoting healthy posture and proper alignment while tackling a variety of terrain. Inspired by traditional huaraches, Luna sandals give your toes the freedom they need to stay... Read more

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 avid runner, a dedicated hiker, or simply someone looking... Read more

Founded in 2009 as a small, boutique company manufacturing DIY sandals, Xero Shoes has since become an industry staple in the minimalist footwear market, producing a wide variety of ready-made sandals and closed-toe shoes and boots in both the athletic and casual footwear spheres. With the thoughtfully designed HFS, Xero has shown how attention to detail can improve barefoot-style running and athletic shoes, providing an option for both competitive and... 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 going about your day-to-day routine, this foot-friendly shoe promises... 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 crack at it with the Xcursion Fusion. In assessing this... 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, the Z-Trail EV performs well across various terrain, from rocky... Read more