Vivobarefoot is a minimalist footwear brand that makes hiking boots, running, and everyday shoes with a focus on technology and sustainability, using production methods and materials that are more efficient and minimize their impact on the environment. Vivobarefoot shoes are durable, performance optimized and carefully designed for a clear purpose. Their hiking boot has been called the “Tesla of shoes” and the brand is a strong player in the minimalist shoe space.

After generations of focusing on cool, oversized padded athletic shoes, it turns out that humans might be better designed to run in more “natural” conditions, i.e: barefoot. Even though research is inconclusive, people are studying the implications of footwear on the biomechanics of running. While new research comes to light, you can experiment on yourself by testing out a minimalist shoe and assessing the impact on your comfort and badassness.

The handcut collection is made with puncture resistant leather, hand stitched and naturally stained with vegetable dyes. Our favorite pair, the Porto Rocker is reminiscent of the Erongo shoe by Brother Vellies, but this one has a more raw and unfinished feel.  Designed with a smoother heel stroke, this desert boot is meant to get you close to a barefoot experience, while still providing enough support and protection.

Porto Rocker desert boot by vivobarefoot