Vivo Tracker Textile or waterproof socks

[elkhunter505]

Hey folks, wondering if anyone has any insight into this specific boot. I am 100% on the barefoot shoe game and I really love my Tracker ESCs, but in certain cases during elk season, I am spending a lot of time hunting through meadows and creek bottoms where I am getting soaked feet after a while. For that reason, I’m looking at these boots right now given that the original version is currently on sale. Really just wondering if they would be worth it vs using some type of sealSkinz type sock on those specific days. If anyone has any insight, I’d really appreciate it!

 

[bhylton]

I was a big skeptic of waterproof socks.. they sound like the most janky idea ever… but they have worked amazing for me. I wear a normal Mid weight wool sock under a pair of sealskin waterproof socks. Used them at work (forestry) and through a hunting season and they are still waterproof to my surprise.

No issues with sweaty/damp feet for me. Highly recommend

 

[JDBAK]

I’ve hunted extensively in soaking wet areas (SEAK, PWS). There’s no perfect answer for me. It’s about managing moisture. I’ve tried goretex socks, Sealskinz, Rab vapor barrier. All leak over time, and all will let perspiration build and get clammy.
So, change socks when you can. And always wear completely dry dedicated sleeping socks at night.

All waterproof/breathable boots leak eventually. All the waterproof breathable socks leak eventually.

My go to is newish Rab VB socks, just understand they are going to get wet from sweat. But I’ll wear them if it means less wet and cold then not wearing them.

Xtratuff boots are actually waterproof, but you’ll sweat eventually. If it’s truly soaking wet that’s probably the best option.
And Xtratuff are actually not that far off from a barefoot feel. Wider, less cushion and heel drop.

 

[North Idaho Stickbow]

I can tell you from experience that waterproof socks work just fine, but you’ll hate them as soon as your feet get hot. They don’t breathe at all.

I’m a big proponent of barefoot shoes too, and I’ve worn the Merrell Wrapt for a few seasons now, and I’m really happy with them. I’m not nice to hunting footwear, and these have held up well and are still waterproof after the abuse.