The Vivobarefoot Synth Hiker boot

Vivobarefoot, a pioneer brand in minimalist ‘barefoot’ shoes, has introduced a new walking boot aimed at walkers tackling off-road routes and aggressive terrain.

The Synth Hiker uses Vivobarefoot’s ultra-thin sole.

The brand, founded in 2003, says the Synth Hiker is a fast and responsive walking boot built on the thinnest, most proprioceptive soles in the world – with teeth – and with a hydro-guard waterproof sock construction.

And to save you reaching for your dictionary, the company helpfully points out that proprioception is the body’s ability to sense the forces acting on it.

It said: “In 2003, Vivobarefoot became a pioneer of the barefoot movement by launching the first minimalist shoe with a patented, ultra-thin puncture-resistant sole that offered maximum sensory feedback and maximum protection.

“This was driven by the knowledge that 70 per cent of your brain’s information for movement comes from the nerves on the soles of your feet. The more you can feel the ground, the greater your body’s understanding of its surroundings and natural movement.”

The Synth Hiker’s upper is made from hydrophobic mesh with speed lacing and has a padded mesh tongue and collar for extra protection around the ankles and toes. The company said it also comes with a removable in-sock for the ultimate barefoot ride or extra thermal protection.

The Synth Hiker boot features the Vivobarefoot rubber off road sole for maximum proprioception with protection and an anatomic toe box to maximise toe spread, allowing the foot to flex naturally. The Dri-Lex performance lining provides excellent moisture wicking and superior comfort.

The boot is available for men and women in a variety of colours. The Synth Hiker is 100 per cent vegan, and the thick mesh is 100 per cent recycled.

The Synth Hiker retails at £100. More details are on the Vivobarefoot website.