The Magna Lite is another remarkably lightweight hiking boot by VIVOBAREFOOT, perfect for spring and summer hiking adventures. The upper is made from a stretchable and breathable thin mesh material, which has been treated with a water-resistant coating. However, it’s important to note that it won’t keep the rain out, but it can handle a bit of morning dew. These shoes are made from 100% vegan materials, and the best way to clean them is to let the dirt dry, brush off the mud, and then wipe them down with a damp cloth. VIVOBAREFOOT’s toe box shape wonderfully mimics the natural shape of the human foot. They offer a perfectly straight line for the big toe, and I never feel like my big toe movement is restricted in any way. However, depending on your foot width, they might restrict your pinky toe if the shoes are not wide enough for your foot width. Goods being returned in a condition other than Pristine and Brand New as sold may be subject to a diminished value fee if they are diminished as a result of your handling and use while in possession of goods.

VIVOBAREFOOT sizing recommendations and the methods for choosing the best size for you have changed a little over the years, but the internal length of their shoes remains the same. I consistently wear size EU 42 in all their styles, with a foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm. Most of their models are true to the size chart, unless stated differently under the model description. If you’re familiar with the iconic VIVOBAREFOOT Gobi boots, which have been around for several years with minor updates, get ready for something completely different. The new Gobi features a completely new design with a sporty look. The upper is made from buttery soft leather, and the top part of the boots is completely unlined, exposing the raw side of the leather. This makes the boots extremely soft and light, avoiding any ankle restriction or digging into your skin. However, keep in mind that these boots are best suited for autumn and spring as they are not lined with warm material like the old Gobi boots.

The interior is lined with leather and features a cork insole, making these shoes a real pleasure to wear. The padded collar provides extra comfort, and although the sole is thin and flexible, it’s not the softest on the market. However, it strikes a great balance between durability and flexibility, and we find its quality to be amazing. My husband is a heavy tester of Geo Courts, and they hold up incredibly well for him! Novus and Novus Mid are new models introduced in 2023, featuring a unique combination of a rugged outdoor sole and urban upper design, giving them a distinctive and stylish look. The Novus is available in two different heights for both men and women. The Mid version takes a little more time to put on, and the organic laces require a bit more effort to untie. The Primus Lite Knit is a fantastic minimalist running shoe that can easily double as your go-to gym shoe or everyday footwear to pair with casual and athletic outfits. Its upper is made from breathable synthetic materials, providing comfort throughout the day. The Opanka Ballerina is a new model introduced in 2023, and it offers the same soft and incredibly light sensation on your feet as their Opanka slip-ons. The upper is made from super soft, high-quality smooth leather in two different colors. Around the top edge, there’s a wider elastic band that ensures a better and more secure fit while also adding a casual touch to the ballerinas. The sole is super thin and flexible, giving you an amazing ground feel.

Sizing & Fit: The women’s Primus Lite Knit is best suited for narrow and medium-wide feet, while the men’s version is ideal for medium to wide feet. While most VIVOBAREFOOT models cater well to skinny ankles and low insteps, this particular model is best suited for those with average insteps and ankles. However, those with shallower feet might not get the best fit, as there can be more gapping around the ankles and the upper material over the instep may crease. VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Asana I would spray this shoe with a protectant rather than apply a product directly to the leather, because it is a light color and a soft brushed texture. Kiwi Spray is what I use (read more about how I care for my shoes here). Magna Lite WR SG is the water-resistant version of Magna Lite, one of our favorite hiking boots. It retains the same design and sole type as its lighter counterpart, with the key difference lying in the upper, where non-absorbent materials have been thoughtfully selected to enhance water resistance without compromising on comfort. It’s always exciting to see a beloved design get a makeover for more challenging conditions, isn’t it?The height of the shoe provides additional ankle support, although personally, we would have preferred a bit more flexibility in this area to reduce any feelings of restriction. I’m undecided how I feel about the algae insole. It feels bumpy under my foot and at first I didn’t like it, but then I noticed that it breathed well and felt nice to walk in. I like that it’s a renewable, natural material, and it definitely seems to keep air flowing to my feet. But there’s a good chance I will swap it out for a NorthSole, Naboso, or wool insole when it gets cold. Warmth wise, I’d say these are in between the Gobi Hi and the regular Gobi. The lining definitely helps insulate these but they are not as warm and cozy as the Gobi Hi Top, so I wouldn’t do serious winter trekking or snow-playing in these. For daily wear, however, these are a good cold weather option. Where I live it’s cold half the year, so having a little extra warmth in my shoes makes a big difference.