Table of contents VerdictProsConsfrom Xero Shoes if you prefer a pair that requires no break-in periodFresh and dry in light moistureLike gum on hairThe Magna Forest ESC's magnificent comfortFresh and dry in light moistureNo chilly hikes in the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESCIf your feet are looking for something far lighter, the 329-gram-apieceMagnified on the weight frontA legit magnum opus
Overview

Our verdict

81
Good!

A legit magnum opus barefoot kicks, the Magna Forest ESC is captivating on slick terrain, including mud and snow. In the cold, this zero-drop hiker from Vivobarefoot stays warm, while in hotter temps, it manages to flush out stuffiness just right. It's not the lightest of its kind, but fantastic comfort is on offer here, nonetheless.

Pros

  • Immensely grippy
  • Quite comfortable
  • Water-resistant
  • Responsive underfoot
  • Satisfyingly cozy
  • Breathable
  • Stellar craftsmanship

Cons

  • Heavy for a barefoot shoe
  • No chilly hikes in the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC

from Xero Shoes if you prefer a pair that requires no break-in period

Barefoot meets extra burliness in the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC. Purchase it if:

  • Who should buy the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC.
  • Add a product.
  • You're after premium finish and comfiness in hiking boots.

Fresh and dry in light moisture

Youre after premium finish and comfiness in Magnified on the weight front is for you. There's also the Xcursion Fusion The Magna Forest ESCs magnificent comfort.

Like gum on hair

Professional reviewers are over the moon about the stickiness of the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC. One of them says, "The tread is insane and really, really grippy." Another one says, "The grip is definitely a step up over most barefoot shoes." Yet one more tester says that its "grip is great for muddier or slippery terrain."

The Magna Forest ESC's magnificent comfort

Trail-goers find immense plushness in the featured boot. A blogger has this in his report: "Comfortable, flexible, forgiving – my feet really enjoy them." A non-professional reviewer also says, "It feels premium, especially next to my Xero Shoes."

A hiking footwear journo, however, warns hikers that the shoe in question requires some breaking in. He says, "The initial break-in period will last 2-4 weeks."

Fresh and dry in light moisture

The Magna Forest ESC is a hit among experts for its excellent water repellency. "I’ve had zero issues with them getting wet," says a vlogger who uses the boot through some really deep snow and across shallow creeks. Another blogger says, "The boot does a great job of keeping water out."

It's also worth noting that this mid-top hiking boot is quite ventilated. A seasoned reviewer says, "I am impressed with how well these boots breathe."

Despite its chunkier-than-most sole unit, the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC still provides remarkable sensitivity. A shoe pundit says that it offers "surprisingly good ground feel."

If your feet are looking for something far lighter, the 329-gram-apiece

Gear mavens adore the featured kick's ability to stave off coldness. "They kept my feet warm in the Canadian winter," said one of them. Another one said that it's "definitely for cooler climates."

Magnified on the weight front

This minimalist boot from Vivobarefoot, according to critics, could be lighter. One of them says, "These are heavier than my other barefoot shoes." Another one has this in their review: "I have had lighter hiking boots."

A legit magnum opus

In terms of workmanship, the Vivobarefoot Magna Forest ESC is outstanding. An expert supports this statement by saying, "Vivobarefoot has always made high-quality shoes in my experience, and the Magna Forest ESCs are no different." A regular commenter also says that this kick is "incredibly well constructed."