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We know “barefoot shoe” sounds contradictory, but these shoes aim to offer minimal material between your foot and the ground, providing just enough protection and support. Research suggests there are benefits to these minimalist shoes, such as stronger muscles, improved posture, and a more natural gait. Many individuals with wide feet appreciate their generous toe box, which allows for natural toe splay. While they might feel unusual initially, many users find them incredibly comfortable.
Our expert panel rigorously tested a range of barefoot shoes—including boots, running shoes, hiking shoes, and casual styles—on various surfaces to assess their true “barefoot” feel. Here are our top picks.
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite IV is one of our favorite men's barefoot shoes for its dexterity and stable feel. It fits like a glove and can tackle more than you think.
We love the women's Vivobarefoot Gobi II Leather. These shoes seamlessly transition from casual activities to the gym thanks to their durable, versatile build.
Those looking for a budget barefoot shoe that is comfortable right out of the box should take a look at the Whitin Minimalist. This affordable shoe has a wide toe box and a versatile, low-key style.
We've also tested other footwear — our sandals review offers a range of options, including more minimalist models that will perfectly complement your warm-weather wardrobe.
Editor's Note: On June 19, 2026, we updated this review with our new favorite barefoot shoes from Vivobarefoot and Merrell.
Who this is best for: The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite IV is a great pair of barefoot shoes for gym training, city walking, and lighter-duty hiking. Its ultra-thin sole and wide toe box shine during balance-focused workouts or weightlifting, allowing one's toes to spread as wide as needed for natural stability. These are also great for social gatherings in town, with a clean look across all three colors available.
Why we love it: This shoe provides exceptional ground feedback that felt like we were almost actually barefoot. The flexible sole bends and twists with the foot, even on uneven pavement, promoting balance and a more natural gait. One of our testers added, “The mesh upper is breathable and surprisingly durable, keeping my feet cool in the summer heat or during sweaty gym sessions.” The Lite IV outsole is also excellent for slick pavement and a variety of gym floor surfaces, which is important for side-to-side agility workouts and outdoor runs. As long as there wasn't too much mud, we could even wear these for scrambling and hiking, making the Lite IV more versatile than most trainers.
Should you buy it? The Primus Lite IV should be on your finals list if you want a barefoot shoe that favors sensitivity over protection. There is very little between your feet and the ground, and we'd stay off bumpy trails with sharp rocks or loose gravel. The generous amount of toe space, paired with the zero-drop platform, makes these an incredible gym companion, and if your feet have adjusted well to minimalist footwear, the Lite IV can also be great for running.
Who this is best for:The Vivobarefoot Gobi II Leather is a go-anywhere, do-it-all type of barefoot shoe that doesn't compromise style for barefoot feel. They are an everyday shoe that works equally as well in the gym or at work, offering a consistent, grounded feel step by step. They are also an excellent choice for travelers who want a shoe to handle it all without adding bulk or weight to their suitcase.
Why we love it: Our testers wore these shoes on long travel days and were pleased with how comfortable and supported they felt throughout the day. The leather upper offers more structure compared to other options, which kept us securely in place as we felt the ground beneath us. We love that you can dress these shoes up or down depending on the day, so they stretch far beyond the gym.
Should you buy it? These shoes are undoubtedly pricey. However, they are far more durable than most other barefoot shoes that we have tested. You get a little more bang for your buck as you won't need to replace them as fast as the mesh options. Plus, they are so versatile that you won't need more than one pair of barefoot shoes to handle work, the gym, or everyday wear.
The Vivobarefoot Gobi II Leather doesn't look like most athletic-style barefoot shoes, but they still offer the same flexibility and minimalist feel of the very best.
Who this is best for: The Lems Primal Zen is ideal for anyone seeking a casual, everyday barefoot-style shoe that's stylish, versatile, and beginner-friendly. It's a great first step into minimalist shoes, offering flexibility and natural movement without being excessively sensitive underfoot. If you're looking for something to wear while running errands, walking the dog, or going out for a casual night, this shoe is perfect for the occasion. Please note that the sizing tends to run small, and our testers had to order multiple sizes to find the perfect fit.
Why we love it: “When headed to the grocery store or to walk my dogs, I often reach for this shoe,” said our lead tester, highlighting the Primal Zen's all-day comfort. It blends casual style with barefoot function: a wide toe box for natural movement, breathable mesh over the toes, and thicker faux leather for durability. The upper's material mix makes it suitable for multiple seasons—just add thicker socks in colder months. A clever flex-point design near the big toe joint helps eliminate stiffness, so every step feels easy and natural.
Should you buy it? These are great if you're transitioning to barefoot shoes and want a versatile daily driver. While the outsole is slightly more cushioned and less sensitive than other minimalist models, removing the insole greatly improves ground feel. These aren't designed for running, but for day-to-day wear and getting used to barefoot shoes, the Primal Zen is one of the best entry points available.
Who this is best for: The Whitin Minimalist is a top pick for anyone looking for a versatile, stable, and affordable barefoot-style shoe. It's especially well-suited for gym-goers, casual wearers, and those with wider feet or high arches. Our entire testing team loved the natural shape of the toe box, and the easily adjustable lacing system ensured a good fit for a variety of foot shapes. As our head tester noted, “I have high arches and didn't have any trouble loosening the shoe enough to fit well.”
Why we love it: These shoes were comfortable right out of the box—no break-in was needed, and no hot spots were reported. Their short stack height and wide base made them some of the most stable shoes we tested. The design works well both at the gym and at work, thanks to a clean, neutral style. While they're not the lightest in our test, they never felt bulky or restrictive. For people seeking a well-rounded barefoot shoe with reliable comfort, the Whitin Minimalist delivers.
Should you buy it?: Absolutely—especially if you're looking for maximum value. While the Whitin is slightly heavier and glued rather than stitched (which raises some durability questions), we didn't experience any issues during testing. They're not our first pick for serious running—the fabric has more give than snug-fit models—but they're stable enough for occasional jogs. For everyday wear, gym use, and unbeatable affordability, the Whitin Minimalist is hard to beat.
Who this is best for: The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite IV is an excellent choice for weightlifting sessions when you want to stay as grounded as possible. These are about as minimal and stable as you can get without being fully barefoot, which might not always be ideal at public gyms. The heel cup is secure, so as you move through your set, you won't have to worry about the shoe slipping around. These also work for urban day-to-day outings, though we suggest being mindful of slick surfaces.
Why we love it: We love how breathable these shoes are, all the way around. The mesh isn't just over the toe box. As our heart rates increased, our feet stayed cool. We appreciate the accommodating fit and lace system, which allowed us to cinch down during high-volume activities and loosen enough when our feet swelled. They gently stay put during our movements, almost feeling like a second skin rather than a shoe.
Should you buy it? If stability is your primary concern while doing gym work, these are a great choice. However, the outsole isn't the grippiest and struggles on wet tile and rock. They are also so minimal that those new to the style might struggle to adjust. We suggest keeping the insole in during your first few wears to help make the transition easier.
We love the previous version of this shoe, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III, just as much. Vivobarefoot updated the materials, which decreased the weight of these shoes by about 2 ounces. If you're willing to trade a few ounces, the Primus Lite III is still widely available and often on sale.
The Primus Lite line is a very light, airy, and grounded shoe that we love for gym work and urban outings.
Stack Height: 6 mm | Weight: 11.6 oz for Women's, 12.8 oz for Men's
REASONS TO BUY
Great for warm weather
Handles wet surfaces with ease
Remarkable ground feedback
REASONS TO AVOID
Not great for beginners
Fit is narrower
Who this is best for: If you want to feel just about everything under your feet, the men's Merrell Vapor Glove 7 and the Women's Merrell Vapor Glove 7 are the way to go. These are jaw-droppingly lightweightand even come with a Vibram outsole that grips well on pavement, the trail, or the gym floor. These also double as water shoes and are ideal for warmer climates where breathability is a must.
Why we love it: We love the minimalist feel of these shoes. We could feel pebbles, twigs, and even sidewalk cracks throughout testing. With the hiking-friendly outsole, the Vapor Glove 7 is also incredibly versatile if your minimalist footwear needs are far-reaching. Our lead tester noted, “I assumed these were just hiking barefoot shoes, but they were even great in the gym.”
Should you buy it? If you prioritize low weight, ground feel, and breathability, we think these are a great buy. However, they aren't the best choice for wide feet or for shoppers seeking maximum stability, as their narrow last and slightly rounded outsole don't offer as much support. The Vapor Glove 7 is great if you're looking for a barefoot shoe that feels as close as possible to a rubber slipper.
Who this is best for: The Merrell Trail Glove 8 is a great model for those new to minimalist footwear. These land between an uber-thin barefoot shoe and a traditional hiker, with a slightly padded midsole and a stiffer outsole that protects one's feet from rougher trails. These have some cushioning in the upper as well, making the transition to barefoot shoes a shorter journey, and also work well for long-time barefooters simply wanting to get more adventurous outdoors. “These I'd recommend to the trail-focused barefoot shopper, especially if sensitivity is not the priority,” one of our main testers shared.
Why we love it: The Trail Glove 8 balances protection and minimalism, making the transition to barefoot shoes more approachable. The Vibram outsole, moderate stack height, and sturdy midsole tame sharp rocks, rough trails, and rough concrete, helping our new barefoot shoe wearers gain confidence in using a shoe with less material. Even for our more experienced barefooters, the Trial Glove 8 is a better fit for longer distances than some of the featherweight designs.
Should you buy it? If you're new to barefoot shoes and want a model that works both in town and on trails, the Trail Glove 8 is worth a closer look. It's not the most sensitive option out there, but that extra cushioning and protection are exactly what many transitioning users need to avoid sore feet, injury, and frustration in the early stages.
Who this is best for: The Xero Scrambler Trail Mid is ideal for hikers wanting a barefoot boot for rough trails and above-treeline hikes. If you like minimalist footwear but aren't willing to give up ankle coverage, weather protection, or a touch of cushioning, the Scrambler might be the answer. “The upper is made of reinforced mesh that kept my feet protected and relatively cool, with enough support to even make backpacking possible,” our men's lead commented.
Why we love it: This model is one of the few boots we've tested that successfully merges the features of traditional hiking boots with barefoot minimalism. The ankle-high design offers extra stability when carrying heavier loads, while the zero-drop platform and wide toe box allow your toes to move freely and stay active on uneven trails. The FeelTrue outsole is also grippy on loose dirt, mud, and even handles some snow. The Scrambler also boasts a waterproof construction, which is rarely seen in any barefoot shoe.
Should you buy it? Go with the Scrambler Trail Mid if you're specifically looking for a barefoot boot for long days, heavier packs, and variable conditions. It's not as light or as sensitive as a below-ankle minimalist shoe, but that trade-off brings noticeably more stability, protection, and durability. The Scrambler isn't as versatile as the lighterweight shoes in the lineup, but it's a great fit for more ambitious barefooters.
Who this is best for: When the leaves turn yellow, and the snow starts falling, we love the Lems Chelsea. This waterproof boot is best for those looking to keep their feet dry in a variety of weather conditions. We took them to the river and trekked through the snow, and our feet stayed dry and warm.
Why we love it: “I was surprised by the amount of traction I had on a snowy trail,” noted our tester. Though they are boots, they still have minimal stack height. They also have a wide toe box that allows our toes to splay uninterrupted. While they lack the flexibility of shoe-style options, they are a good compromise for those seeking a boot that mimics barefoot tendencies.
Should you buy it? Overall, we love the Lems Chelsea for their natural feel, step by step. While it's stiffer than a traditional barefoot shoe, which is more flexible, if you want a boot-style barefoot option, this would be our pick.
Who this is best for: The Xero HFS II is ideal for runners looking for a barefoot-style shoe that can handle a mix of terrain—especially pavement, gravel, and light to moderate trails. While the shoe runs slightly narrow, it still worked for our testers with wide feet after adjusting the laces (though this left very little lace for tying). If you have wide feet and want a better out-of-the-box fit, consider other models.
Why we love it: Unlike most barefoot shoes with inverted tread, the HFS II features a traditional lug-style tread that improves grip on varied surfaces. “I wouldn't want to take them on anything too technical or loose, but they handle light to moderate trails, gravel, and pavement really well,” our tester noted. The breathable, lightweight upper and removable sole add comfort and versatility, especially for those new to minimalist footwear. At just 14.2 ounces for a women's 9, they're great for running and stylish enough for casual wear.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a minimalist running shoe that transitions easily from workout to everyday wear, the HFS II is a top choice. Its tread, comfort features, and lightweight design make it stand out. Please note the snug fit and short laces, especially if you have wide feet.
Lug style tread pattern and a breathable upper make the Xero HFS II our go-to choice when heading out for a run. Credit: Rebecca Glades
How We Tested
Our team has been testing barefoot shoes for years. We wear these in our personal lives, at work, at school, at the gym, and on casual outings. We have even taken these shoes abroad on backpacking journeys. Along the way, we test aspects like ground feedback, fit, stability, and comfort. We also note precise measurements for stack height, width, and weight. By testing various footwear types, including boots, we determine the best options for different activities and styles.
Our tests were divided into 5 key metrics:
Ground Feedback
Stability
Traction
Weight
Durability
Why Trust GearLab
Leading the men's barefoot testing team is Alex Glades, Jon Oleson, and Zach Lovell. Alex is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the owner of Clockwork Physiotherapy. For his day-to-day, he looks towards barefoot shoes. He is a strong believer in foot-strengthening techniques and their impact on your overall posture. He finds that the natural toe box allows for a more proper toe-splay step-by-step. Jon is a firm believer in wide toe boxes and minimal stack height. Over a decade ago, he switched to the style and isn't turning back. Even just glancing at narrow toe boxes makes his toes hurt.
Zach works as an IFMGA Mountain Guide who pays extra attention to his foot health, given that his feet are both his livelihood and his “motor” for his favorite mountain adventures, whether climbing or skiing. He's been testing footwear for several years and loves the ever-expanding barefoot shoe category.
Our women's team is led by Becca Glades. Becca grew up as a barefoot kid in a quirky southern New Mexico mountain town. Until about seventh grade, she ran around with her toes exposed, even in winter. Her transition to shoes was rough, so when she discovered the category called “barefoot shoes,” she was thrilled. For many years, she has prioritized zero-drop and natural-toe-box shoes.
We took these shoes everywhere with us, making detailed notes on their barefoot feel and overall performance.
How to Choose Barefoot Shoes
Whether you're new to the world of barefoot shoes or have been here for a while, there are a few key considerations for your next pair of shoes. If you're accustomed to an ultra-cushioned shoe with a heel-to-toe drop, the transition might be a bit jarring. Below, we outline steps to make the transition more manageable. We also discuss some components you might be looking for based on your day-to-day activities.
This is one of the main reasons to opt for barefoot. Look at the toe scrunch within the left shoe compared to the toe splay in the shoe on the right. Credit: Rebecca Glades
What Makes a Shoe Barefoot?
While all barefoot shoes vary to some degree, they share many common features. First, they have minimal stack height. This refers to the millimeters of cushion between your foot and the ground. The smaller the stack, the more barefoot the shoe will feel. The most minimal barefoot shoes start around two millimeters in stack height. At around 15 millimeters, we consider the shoes “minimalist.” The stack height will impact your ground feel. Those with thinner soles will feel more sensitive underfoot. While those with thicker soles won't feel as much, they can be helpful for beginners or trail use.
We like our barefoot shoes bendy, allowing the foot to move freely in any direction. Credit: Becca Glades
Next, barefoot shoes have zero heel-to-toe drop. This means the stack height remains consistent throughout the length of the shoe. So, your heel will not have any height advantage over your toe. Barefoot shoes also have plenty of flexibility. Your foot should not be restricted in any way when walking in barefoot shoes, so they need to be very flexible. Lastly, barefoot shoes prioritize a naturally shaped toe box. Your toes should have plenty of space in the toe box, not being pushed in by the side of the shoe. This also allows for a proper toe splay.
Here we are comparing various toe boxes in barefoot shoes. Credit: Becca Glades
Why Go Barefoot?
Being barefoot can promote proper posture and joint health. Barefoot-style shoes help strengthen your foot and ankle, which can help prevent falls and poor posture. This is because your foot can splay properly when walking, meaning the shoe's walls do not restrict your toes. This is also thanks to the natural strike of your foot, which can be disrupted by an overly cushioned shoe, often leading to early pronation. How your foot moves without a shoe on is precisely how you want it to move with a barefoot shoe on. If you are new to barefoot shoes or simply walking barefoot, this transition can be a little jarring as your feet, ankles, and legs aren't accustomed to this stride.
The Lems Chelsea Waterproof is a great year-round boot, but we really love it once the snow starts falling. Credit: Becca Glades
Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes
If you have never worn a barefoot shoe, the first time you put one on, you might be questioning the style. Your foot won't be greeted with a thick, cushiony sole; neither will your arches get support from a strategically curved insole. While this doesn't sound appealing initially, it can have a significant impact on your foot and gait health, as mentioned above. The good news is that there are plenty of methods to help make the transition seamless.
Removable Insoles
Many barefoot shoes have a removable insole, just like a conventional shoe. When transitioning to barefoot-style shoes, we recommend keeping that insole in for a few months. This extra cushion can help your feet adjust to the minimalistic style. After your feet have strengthened and become accustomed to this, you can choose to remove the insole for an even more barefoot feel. Some barefoot wearers choose to keep the insole in at all times, while others prefer the absolute minimum underfoot. Our testers have their preferences, but we will let you be the judge. However, we suggest keeping it in for an easier transition.
The insoles of these barefoot shoes are optional but can provide a little extra squish if needed. Credit: Rebecca Glades
Stack Height
The most barefoot-feeling shoes will have a lower stack height. If you are used to a cushioned shoe with thick foam under your foot, you might opt for a barefoot shoe with a higher stack height. Barefoot shoes typically don't exceed 15 millimeters in stack height, so choosing one closer to that end will bridge the gap between your cushiony shoe and the most minimal options. As you get used to the barefoot feel, you might choose the next pair with a lower stack height.
The Primus Lite III are among the most “barefoot” feeling shoes in our lineup. If you aren't used to a small stack and zero drop, these might take some getting used to. Credit: Alex Glades
Walk Around Barefoot
The best way to get used to barefoot shoes is to walk around barefoot. Do you currently walk around your house in shoes? If so, you aren't giving your feet much practice. Start by kicking off your shoes when you get home and walking around your home barefoot. This will help you transition to barefoot-style shoes when you are out of the house.
The Xero HFS II has a decent ground feel and a fit that we liked best for running. Credit: Alex Glades
What is the Flex Test?
What is up with all these photos of shoes being twisted up? After all, our feet don't move that way. We understand. These photos are meant to show a shoe's flexibility. You shouldn't be restricted by your shoes as you walk around. So, if you step on a large boulder, the shoe should flex over the rock, as if you weren't wearing it anyway. If it remained rigid, your foot would not have the chance to wrap around the curvature. The same goes for flexing your toes when walking. Your toes should bend up at the end of your stride. A stiff shoe will prevent this natural bend in your toes. When you see these shoes doing gymnastics, it shows how flexible they are and gives you an idea of how your foot will move in them.
These shoes are being twisted and rolled to show just how much they will move with you.
Which Style is Right for Me?
You need to first consider where you will be wearing your barefoot shoes. Do you often walk off-road or on gravel? How about wet surfaces? Many barefoot shoes lack traction. If you need an option with better traction for outdoor use, these criteria will help narrow your choices. If you are looking for something to wear mostly indoors, you can get away with less tread. The same can be said for gym shoes. You will probably want the most stable feeling shoe, which will be low to the ground and wide.
A little newer to barefoot style shoes? The Merrell Trail Glove is a great option and our go to when pavement isn't involved. Credit: Alex Glades
If you live in a cooler climate or have chilly winters, you might consider a pair of boots. Most barefoot shoes are made from lightweight, breathable materials. While this is great for warm days, it can be a recipe for freezing toes, especially when moisture is involved. You can always throw on thicker socks, but snow can still melt through these, too. Luckily, waterproof barefoot boots exist.
The Lems Chelsea boots are waterproof and warm, but don't sacrifice the “barefoot” feel with the extra materials. Credit: Becca Glades
Other Notable Barefoot Shoes
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit - We love the Primus Lite line. While we imagine the knit is comfortable, we have stuck with the classic version of this shoe for its airy upper and accommodating fit.
Wildling Tanuki and Wildling Fundois - These are part of Wildling's Essentials collection, meaning they are available year-round. Our testers have worn these outside of testing and have loved them just as much as the Wildling Arnow and Wildling Mar.
Saguaro Minimalist Trail Runner - Saguaro offers many intriguing, budget-friendly barefoot shoes. At this time, we find the Whitin shoes a better bang for your buck.
Altra Lone Peak 9 and Altra LP Alpine - The Lone Peak line has more stack than most barefoot shoes, but it still has a lot to offer, like a zero-drop and wide toe box for full splay. The LP Alpine is the same shape, but uses hemp and suede in the upper.
Earth Runners Alpha - These barefoot-style sandals are great for waterside trips and days when you want as little on your feet as possible.
Xero Z-Trail EV - These are another pair of barefoot sandals that have an X-secure zig-zag strap design that keeps your foot set in place.
Conclusion
If you are new to barefoot shoes, we hope this article has deepened your understanding of a relatively new and emerging class of footwear and given you some options for getting started. If you are a barefoot shoe expert, we hope we have helped you find your next pair. Whether you are searching for a barefoot shoe for running, hiking, or winter wear, you can rest assured that our team has gone the distance to find the best barefoot shoes available.
—Alex Glades, Aaron Rice, Zach Lovell, and Becca Glades
