The most popular question friends and family ask about at this time of the year is, “What are the features of natural or barefoot boots & shoes that make them great for the fall & winter seasons?“. Here are some of the features based on our decade of wear testing natural & barefoot shoes for all terrains.
Waterproof – Waterproof styles are perfect for fall weather when it’s rainy or snowy. These shoes feature a fully waterproof membrane and oiled leather upper to keep feet dry.
Wide Toe Box – Shoes designed with a wider than average toe box to allow the forefoot to spread out and move naturally. This feature is pivotal to foot health and can help prevent deformities like bunions and hammer toes.
Zero-Drop – Shoes that are zero-drop, meaning that the heel and toes are level, which mimics your natural barefoot position on a flat surface. This feature can improve posture and alignment, reduce the risk of injury, and alleviate strain on the lower back.
Lightweight & Flexible – Shoes that are minimalist and lightweight, which makes them great for fall weather when you want to wear something comfortable and breathable. They are also flexible, which allows your feet to move naturally and build strength in the ankles, foot, and leg muscles.
Versatile – Shoes that are versatile and can be worn as casual urban footwear or on the trail. They are packable and can be easily taken on trips or hikes.
Overall, these barefoot design shoes are great for fall & winter because they prioritize foot health, are waterproof, lightweight and flexible, and can be worn in a variety of settings. And who makes these shoes? Dominantly LEMs Shoes, Xero Shoes, and VIVOBAREFOOT. Below are some of the best selling or new models from these shoe manufacturers.
From LEMs Shoes…
BOULDER SUMMIT WATERPROOF
This fully waterproof boot draws inspiration from the original Boulder Boot, but now combines the rugged outsole of the Outlander to offer a more secure grip.
BOULDER BOOT GRIP WATERPROOF
This version of the traditional Waterproof Boulder Boot is made with all of your favorite features like a wide toe box and zero drop platform, but now features a new rugged, ultra grippy outsole!
Coming Mid October!
CHELSEA BOOT WATERPROOF
Fans of the Primal Zen will be stoked because the Waterproof Chelsea is here; featuring the same outsole you know and love, meaning this boot ticks all the right boxes: super lightweight, zero-drop, and ultra wide.
Coming Mid October: OBSIDIAN colorway!
From Xero Shoes…
RIDGEWAY
Combine the allure of retro style with cutting-edge barefoot-friendly technology, and you get the Ridgeway – a hiking boot with a rugged canvas upper with suede accents. It’s ready to conquer technical trails with friends and comfortable enough to enjoy a beer afterward.
XCURSION FUSION
Xcursion Fusion is a minimalist hiking boot that is rugged enough for the most demanding summits yet stylish enough to pair with just jeans, khakis, tactical pants, or just about any casual attire.
MESA TRAIL WP
When the weather turns damp and drizzly, your feet won’t notice thanks to the Mesa Trail WP’s seam-sealed inner bootie, gusseted tongue, and waterproof lining. Whether you’re barreling down a trail or just strolling to the store, this shoe keeps moisture and debris at bay.
From VIVOBAREFOOT…
MAGNA LITE WR SG MENS
The Magna Lite Water Resistant Soft Ground is a supremely versatile hiker that keeps you fast and light on your feet – whatever the weather or terrain. It’s weatherized for protection and durability in colder, wetter conditions, using recycled, animal-free materials – without adding weight or sacrificing breathability.
TRACKER II FG MENS
The Tracker II Firm Ground is their classic, best-selling barefoot hiking boot. Suited to all weathers and terrains, it’s hard-wearing and waterproof yet lightweight and flexible. Being tough doesn’t mean you can’t feel.
MAGNA FOREST ESC MENS
The Magna Forest ESC is a fast, flexible and rugged hiking boot with all-terrain capability, designed to excel in forest environments and beyond, where moisture management is key. It’s the ‘fast hike’ version of the Tracker Forest ESC.
