If you’re looking for waterproof barefoot hiking boots that don’t feel overly built-up or restrictive, the Vaistoa Uoma 2 Barefoot Trekking Boot is a really interesting option to have on your radar.
Vaistoa is a Finnish brand creating simple, functional barefoot footwear using vegan materials. Their approach is refreshingly straightforward. No unnecessary structure, no over-complication, just shoes designed to let your feet move naturally.
In this review, I’m focusing on the Uoma 2 Barefoot Trekking Boots, alongside a quick look at two other models from the range.
What makes a good barefoot hiking boot?
Before getting into the detail, it’s worth grounding this in what actually matters.
Most conventional hiking boots are designed around:
- thick soles
- rigid structure
- elevated heels
All of which reduce natural movement and change how your foot interacts with the ground.
A good barefoot trekking boot should instead offer:
- a foot-shaped toe box (so the big toe can stay straight)
- zero drop (no raised heel)
- a thin, flexible sole
- secure but non-restrictive fit
The Uoma 2 ticks those boxes, but what makes it stand out is how it fits into the current market.
A genuinely useful mid-width barefoot hiking boot
This is where the Vaistoa Uoma 2 Trekking Boot really shines.
It sits directly between two well-known options:
- Wider than Vivobarefoot
- Slightly narrower than Freet
That makes it a true mid-width barefoot hiking boot, which is surprisingly hard to find.
- Square anatomical toe box
- Medium width
- Good internal volume
- Plenty of adjustability
For many people, this will feel like the “just right” option.
I was particularly mindful of my tailor’s bunion when testing these, and despite initial hesitation, they didn’t aggravate it at all. The combination of shape and volume works well to avoid pressure.
Sizing
- True to size for me
- Slightly short for my husband
If you’re between sizes or prefer a bit more room, sizing up is worth considering.
They also start from EU35, which is a big win for smaller adult feet.
Lightweight, flexible and properly minimal
The Uoma 2 uses a 4.5mm zero drop sole, and it delivers a genuinely barefoot feel.
- Very flexible
- Strong ground connection
- Comparable to Vivobarefoot in ground feel
- More minimal than Freet
There is a small amount of comfort from the insole, but overall this is a low-stack, responsive boot.
You feel the ground. You feel the terrain. Your foot is able to move.
If you’re used to barefoot shoes, this feels natural. If you’re coming from traditional hiking boots, it will feel like a big shift.
Waterproof performance that holds up
For UK conditions, this is one of the most important features.
These waterproof barefoot boots have been tested in:
- heavy rain
- deep puddles
- boggy, muddy fields
And they hold up well.
No leaks, no damp socks, no compromise on flexibility.
This makes them a genuinely practical option for everyday outdoor use, especially if you want a minimal hiking boot that can handle wet conditions.
Grip and terrain
The tread is relatively minimal, so it’s important to position these correctly.
They perform well on:
- wet pavements
- grass
- muddy woodland
- general outdoor walking
They are ideal for:
- dog walking
- parks
- countryside paths
- everyday wear
However, they are not designed for:
- rocky terrain
- technical hiking
- steep, uneven ground
If you need aggressive grip and heavy-duty performance, this isn’t that boot. But for most real-life use cases, they do exactly what’s needed.
Vegan materials and construction
The Vaistoa Uoma 2 Trekking Boot is made using fully vegan materials, including:
- Vegan synthetic leather (PU upper)
- Waterproof membrane lining
- Recycled insole components
- Flexible rubber outsole
If you are specifically looking for vegan barefoot hiking boots, this is a strong and accessible option.
The construction is simple and lightweight, which contributes to comfort and flexibility.
Aesthetic and design
The design is clean and understated.
- Available in four colours
- Sole matches the upper in each option
- Minimal branding
- No exaggerated barefoot look
They sit somewhere between:
- a traditional hiking boot
- and a barefoot shoe
They don’t draw attention, and for many people that’s exactly the appeal.
How the Uoma 2 compares to other barefoot hiking boots
This is where it becomes especially useful.
Compared to Vivobarefoot:
- Wider fit
- More volume
- Similar ground feel
Compared to Freet:
- Slightly narrower
- Slightly less volume
- More minimal feel
This positions the Uoma 2 as a strong middle-ground option.
If you’ve tried both ends of the spectrum and not quite found the right fit, this is well worth exploring.
Who these boots are for
✔️ Medium width feet
✔️ Medium to slightly higher volume feet
✔️ People looking for vegan barefoot hiking boots
✔️ Everyday outdoor use
✔️ UK weather and wet conditions
✔️ Those wanting a more minimal feel
Who they might not suit
⚠️ Very wide feet needing maximum width
⚠️ Technical hiking or mountain use
⚠️ Those wanting thick cushioning or heavy structure
Value for money
At around £114, and less with my discount (BAREFOOTBRIT), these sit in a more accessible part of the market.
What you get:
- waterproof performance
- flexible, minimal sole
- lightweight comfort
- versatile everyday usability
They are a practical, no-nonsense barefoot trekking boot that delivers where it matters.
Quick look at the other models
Vaistoa Toive Felt Barefoot Slippers
These have become a daily go-to at home.
- Lightweight and flexible
- Same barefoot sole concept
- Easy to slip on
- Suitable for indoor and quick outdoor use
Toive Slippers: Vaistoa Toive Felt Barefoot Slippers
They don’t have heel security, so they’re not for anything active, but as a house shoe they work really well.
Vaistoa Iloa Knitted Barefoot Sneakers
A lightweight, breathable option with a soft knit upper.
- Flexible 4.5mm sole
- Square toe box
- Very light and airy
Ideal for:
- gym use
- travel days
- casual summer wear
Iloa Sneakers: Vaistoa Iloa Knitted Barefoot Sneakers
Final thoughts
The Vaistoa Uoma 2 Barefoot Trekking Boot is a strong addition to the barefoot hiking category.
It offers:
- a true mid-width fit
- reliable waterproofing
- genuine barefoot flexibility
- lightweight, comfortable design
For everyday outdoor use, especially in wet UK conditions, it does exactly what most people need from a waterproof barefoot hiking boot.
If you’ve been looking for something that sits between narrower and wider brands, this is a very solid option.
You can shop here: Vaistoa Collection
Uoma 2: Vaistoa Uoma 2 Barefoot Trekking Boot
Toive Slippers: Vaistoa Toive Felt Barefoot Slippers
Iloa Sneakers: Vaistoa Iloa Knitted Barefoot Sneakers
Use code BAREFOOTBRIT (affiliate code)
Brit 👣