V-Alpha

The Mesa II's are super light, something like 8oz lighter than the Vivo Hydra ESC. I got spoiled by super light shoes and it's hard to wear anything else. now. So I'm a big Mesa fan. Also VFF V-Alphas, they are even lighter. For grip VFF are much better than shoes since you have toe movement to help you grip. Then sandals then shoes. The Mesas are slippery in some conditions which you learn to adapt to after awhile. I don't have the Hydras but I have their other ESC soles and those are grippier than the Mesas.

I have quite narrow feet, below average volume. V-Run's upper was extremely unwearable tight. Going up a size to get enough volume made it extremely long in toe. V-Trail was my regular size, fit well. Very cushy for VFF. Good traction on rock, packed dirt and wet dirt (not slushy). Pavement wears out outsole in no time though. V-Alpha is also regular shoe size for me. Very lightweight and super flexible. The most barefoot feeling -- can be not the most pleasant on loose rock and other hard pointy surfaces. Lugs are minimal -- good for city or very tightly packed dirt hiking. On wet ground or loose soil you'll be sliding all over the place.

Plus 1, plus 2, plus 3!!! 👍❤️😁 Best shoes ever for me!

Try the v alpha . The trek are way too thick it defeats the point of being barefoot style. Try v alpha , you will never look back trust me

La Sportiva's have the best grip on wet rock. After that any shoe with Vibram Megagrip. Followed by Salomon's ContraGrip. They all work well. Best bet, go to a store and try a bunch on. You have recommended shoes from a bunch of people. Now go see how they fit YOUR feet. Go with the ones you like/fit best. Also as others have said skip the waterproofing. It'll only make your feet hot and sweaty. Gortex is for the winter.

Assuming you are overpronating, try Vibram Fivefingers or something else with a thinner / firmmer sole, narrow heel, and wide toe box. The video below explains why. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv11eo4DslI&t=80s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv11eo4DslI&t=80s)

5 fingers are good but bear in mind they have no stubtoe protection, so a stray rock in the path can really mess up your day (ask me how I know). I’d favor a shoe with a toe box, like vivos.