In This Article
Will Zaqq Hiqe Low Vegan Waterproof become your favorite? In my hands-on experience, taking them off after a long walk has never been a necessity — so comfy and breathable they are.
If you wonder whether this model can be your easy-on-and-off transit shoes for barefoot walking experiences, I’ve got you. Let me share my impressions of one of Zaqq’s bestsellers. Mind the gap!
Zaqq Hiqe Low Vegan Waterproof Parameters
One of the most impressive aspects of this model is its waterproofing. Unlike other vegan shoes I’ve owned, which tend to handle only light rain before getting damp, the Zaqq Hiqe stands out. Its high-quality vegan material, combined with the waterproof, breathable, and windproof ZAQQ membrane, provides exceptional protection. I experimented a bit and submerged. After I held it in water for a few hours and checked the results, I found out that it managed to keep the interior dry.
On the other hand, don’t forget about its low-ankle cut. I believe it might not be the best choice for stream crossing and similar activities as water can easily seep in from the top. In addition, they aren’t quick-dry either. From this perspective, this option is better suited for:
- casual walking;
- light trekking;
- urban wear in wet conditions;
- everyday use in windy or rainy weather.
Durability & Year-Round Efficiency
Despite how flexible these are, they provide a stable fit that I need to move confidently and securely. The use of high-quality materials contributes to its longevity. After half a year of activewear, their looks stick nail it.
Initially, I purchased them as footwear for fall and spring. They aren’t too warm but provide enough room in the forefoot for a natural toe splay and another pair of socks. I would recommend them for transitional seasons, but it is better to choose a warmer option if the temperature drops below 8°C.
I also like how the brand introduces different silhouettes for men and women. This way, the shoe will adapt to your foot’s shape and guarantee an optimal fit.
Material & Breathability
These are made of top-tier vegan materials, and here is what this feature means in practice:
- Easy to maintain — although they aren’t machine-wash-friendly, they are simple to clean and care for.
- Sustainable & eco-friendly — if you want to rely on brands with eco-conscious manufacturing practices, Zaqq is the answer.
- Breathable — these hiking shoes feature a well-thought-out design, allowing for great airflow. My feet are dry and warm whenever I am when I put them on.
- Wear and tear resistance — the brand has taken care of how comfy and durable they are thanks to hand-sewn elements.
With the soles made of rubber, this model isn’t the most lightweight solution in the market — 300 grams (around 10.5 ounces). Nonetheless, they don’t feel like shackles on my feet even after hours spent wearing them.
Sole Flexibility
In the best-case scenario, a barefoot shoe should be easy to roll up and bend in multiple directions. That’s exactly what the Zaqq Hiqe model delivers. These hiking shoes feature hand-sewn rubber soles that provide top-notch flexibility. I like how it enhances the design’s performance and comfort:
- a nice ground feel;
- natural foot movement;
- better stability and balance;
- improved agility on various terrains.
I can’t help but appreciate the anti-slip and wear-resistant features of these soles. While I primarily use these for casual walking outdoors, their grip will also be satisfactory for gym training.
Overall Comfort
Here are a few more notes about my experiences to complement my Zaqq Hiqe Low Vegan review:
- These shoes feature a wide-toe box. Still, I don’t find them extremely suitable for those with extra wide fit. As a person with pretty average feet for my size (43 EU for men), I have no regrets about how Zaqq Hiqe functions and satisfies my needs.
- Unlike other barefoot designs, these rather belong to the transition shoe category. Although they offer 2 mm cushioning, they are still zero-drop and offer other minimalist footwear benefits.
- The lacing system is convenient, and the same goes for the tongue’s design. I can easily set the desired fit without restricting the way my feet can move.
Final Thoughts
To sum up my Hiqe review, I would like to highlight the brand’s consistency. I’m the lucky owner of two other pairs from Zaqq, and they have never failed me. If you are looking for a good, breathable, and flexible pair of shoes you wouldn’t want to kick off after your work shift (or other examples of intense wear), I am happy to recommend Zaqq Hiq Low Vegan in red or black.
At the end of the day, Zaqq Hiqe has been included in such ratings as Best Wide Foot Shoes, Best Wide-Toe-Boxed Shoes, Best Waterproof Shoes, and Best Non-Slip Shoes. Check them out to familiarize yourself with not less impressive models from other barefoot manufacturers in the market.