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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 benefits like strengthened 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 Merrell Trail Glove 7 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 Merrell Vapor Glove 6. These shoes are truly barefoot, with just six millimeters underfoot, a roomy toe box, and excellent stability.
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 July 7, 2025, we reconfigured the award section to make it more helpful.
Who this is best for: The Merrell Trail Glove 7 is a standout option for men new to barefoot shoes or those seeking a more versatile minimalist design. With a larger-than-average stack height, it provides a gentle introduction to barefoot-style footwear without sacrificing too much cushioning. It's ideal for runners and walkers who want a ground feel without the harsh impact that can come with more extreme minimalist options. If you're aiming for a more traditional barefoot feel, look for a smaller stack height.
Why we love it: This shoe strikes a smart balance between protection and feedback. The lightly inverted Vibram tread grips everything from sidewalks to singletrack, while still allowing you to feel the terrain. The wide-toe box was a highlight for our testers, especially for one with wide feet who shared, “It's hard for me to find comfortable shoes right out of the box, but these are the exception.” The design encourages natural foot splay and movement without feeling overly minimalist or harsh. While not the lowest stack height in the barefoot category, the Trail Glove 7 still offers a relatively grounded feel, making it a practical pick for daily wear and light trail adventures.
Should you buy it? Yes—especially if you're curious about barefoot shoes but not quite ready to go all in. It gives just enough underfoot to be comfortable on a variety of surfaces, from urban to trail, while still offering the benefits of a more natural stride. Over time, if you want to explore shoes with less cushion, you can transition to models like the Vapor Glove. But thanks to its versatile design and approachable feel, the Trail Glove 7 is a solid investment and one of our favorite all-around barefoot-inspired shoes in this year's test.
Who this is best for: The Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is perfect for experienced barefoot shoe users or those seeking maximum ground feel. With minimal material underfoot and an ultra-flexible design, these shoes offer a truly minimalist experience. Testers with a history of barefoot wear appreciated the wide toe box and natural foot movement, while beginners may prefer starting with a slightly thicker shoe for an easier transition.
Why we love it: These shoes impressed us with their featherlight feel and exceptional breathability. Lead tester Becca Glades said, “I was surprised at just how much I could feel under my feet in these shoes.” We loved how the mesh upper dried quickly after stepping in a puddle, and the compact, lightweight build made them perfect for travel. The foot-shaped fit and full-toe splay gave us confidence and comfort with every step.
Should you buy it? Yes—if you're ready for a true barefoot experience. It offers a close-to-the-earth feel with minimal cushioning, making it best suited for those already accustomed to barefoot-style footwear. While not ideal for cold weather or first-time users due to its lack of insulation and insole, it excels in warm conditions, travel, and training. For newcomers, consider easing into a different shoe before transitioning to this ultra-minimalist option.
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 footwear, offering flexibility and natural movement without being overly sensitive underfoot. If you're looking for something to wear while running errands, walking the dog, or heading out for a casual night, this shoe is perfect for the occasion. Please note that our sizing tends to run small—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? Yes—especially 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 significantly enhances 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 budget-friendly 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 those 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 III is ideal for barefoot shoe enthusiasts seeking maximum ground feel and a minimalist profile. It shines in gym settings and on firm, man-made surfaces. If you prioritize a strong connection to the ground and a shoe that encourages natural foot movement, this is a top contender. That said, those with wide feet or medium to high arches may find the fit tight across the midfoot unless the insole is removed.
Why we love it: This shoe stands out for its ultra-thin, low-profile upper and nearly smooth sole, which creates an exceptional sense of connection underfoot. The breathable, perforated fabric allows for excellent ventilation, and the rubbery upper adds durability compared to softer, stretchier materials found in other barefoot shoes. We especially liked its performance in the gym, where the wide, stable base provided confidence during lifts and dynamic movement. As one tester put it, “The only time I felt unstable in these shoes was when navigating loose slopes or racing down sinuous sandy trails.”
Should you buy it?: Yes—if your primary activities are indoors or on hard-packed surfaces. It delivers elite barefoot performance in controlled environments but may not be the best choice for loose or technical terrain due to its shallow tread. If you prefer a roomier toe box or plan to hike or run off-road, consider other options. But for serious barefoot fans who value breathability, flexibility, and direct ground feedback, the Primus Lite III is a top-tier pick.
Who this is best for: The Wildling Mar is perfect for experienced barefoot shoe users seeking the most natural, unfiltered ground feel possible. With just 2.5 millimeters of outsole stack, it's one of the most barefoot-feeling shoes we tested. The wide toe box promotes healthy toe splay, and a slightly rounded heel supports a smooth stride. If you're looking for a shoe that moves effortlessly with your foot and maximizes feedback from the ground, this is it.
Why we love it: The Mar wowed our team with its flexibility in all directions—twisting, bending, and even folding over the arch with ease. The soft outsole was contoured to uneven terrain, such as rocks, and our testers were amazed at how much they could feel beneath their feet. These shoes impressed during daily use, from errands to travel. We even took them on a week-long trip and were pleased with how well they packed in our carry-on.
Should you buy it?: Yes—if you're ready for the most minimal barefoot experience. While the Wildling Mar isn't built for trails or running, it excels in casual, everyday settings. Be aware of its downsides: minimal tread, water absorption, and signs of early cosmetic wear. Still, for those who prioritize barefoot feel above all, the Mar is a standout.
Who this is best for: The Vibram V-Trail 2.0 is best for seasoned barefoot shoe users looking for maximum ground feel and trail-ready traction. As a FiveFinger model, it individually hugs each toe, promoting a natural splay and exceptional foot control. If you're comfortable with the unique look and toe separation, and you're after a rugged barefoot shoe for varied terrain, this is one of the most minimalist options available.
Why we love it: With just a 5.7-millimeter stack height, the V-Trail 2.0 offers superb ground feedback, dampened only slightly by its tough, puncture-resistant outsole. The 3.7-millimeter tread features aggressive triangular lugs that grip dirt and loose terrain surprisingly well. These shoes gave us confidence and stability on both trail runs and hikes. We felt almost everything under our feet in these shoes, and their flexibility allowed our toes to move exactly as they needed to, contributing to a grounded and agile feel.
Should you buy it?: Yes—if you're fully committed to the barefoot lifestyle and ready for something truly minimal. The Vibram V-Trail 2.0 delivers elite trail performance with unmatched ground connection. However, it's not beginner-friendly. The glove-like fit requires practice to put on, and the low stack can be jarring if you're transitioning from a higher stack. However, for advanced users seeking trail traction and total toe freedom, the V-Trail 2.0 offers one of the purest barefoot experiences available.
Who this is best for: The Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG is ideal for barefoot shoe wearers who want to take their minimalist footwear onto rugged trails and into colder, wetter environments. With sturdy ankle support, solid traction, and a durable build, it's a great choice for hikers, backpackers, or anyone looking to extend their barefoot lifestyle into more demanding terrain.
Why we love it: This boot strikes a rare balance between protection and ground feel. Its 2.5-millimeter lugs and 0.08-millimeter Pro5 Puncture Resistant layer keep your feet safe from sharp rocks and debris while still maintaining a close connection to the ground. “I feel confident hiking around in these boots, and I still feel connected to the ground below,” one tester reported. Durable, supportive, and fully waterproof, the Tracker II FG handles rough conditions without compromising the barefoot experience.
Should you buy it?: Yes—if you want a barefoot hiking boot that can handle cold, wet, or rugged terrain. While it's not the lightest or cheapest in our lineup, the Tracker delivers serious performance and protection. If durability, traction, and waterproofing are top priorities, the Tracker II FG is well worth the investment.
Updated Version
This boot has been updated to the Vivobarefoot Tracker Leather AT. Our team is hitting the trails in this boot and will have a full report soon. We are now linking to this boot below.
When the leaves turn yellow and the snow starts falling, we love the Lems Chelsea. This waterproof boot has kept our feet dry in a variety of weather. We took them to the river and trekked through the snow, still our feet stayed dry and warm. “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 allowed our toes to splay uninterrupted.
Being a boot, they are stiffer than the shoe models in this lineup. However, that is to be expected with the style. As a Chelsea-style boot, they also have a lower flood height. They kept our feet dry unless we stepped deep enough for water to flow across the elastic, which is not waterproof. The boots run small, so our testers needed to order a few pairs to get the right fit. The Xero Shoes Tari fits true to size, but tends to run narrow and could be a good match for someone seeking a barefoot shoe without such a wide fit. Overall, we love the Lems Chelsea for their natural feel, step by step.
Who this is best for: The Xero HFS II is ideal for runners seeking 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 fit out of the box, 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.
Who this is best for: The Wildling Arnow is perfect for barefoot shoe enthusiasts who want maximum ground feel with the flexibility to ease into minimal footwear. With just 3.5 millimeters of stack height and an optional insole (including a thicker version for beginners), it's especially well-suited for those transitioning to a more minimalist style. If you're after a shoe that encourages natural movement and proper toe splay, this one delivers.
Why we love it: The Arnow captures everything we look for in a barefoot shoe—zero drop, a wide toe box, and low stack height. The rubber outsole wraps up over the toe, which helps prevent toe jams during our testing. Although the outsole initially felt somewhat stiff, it softened quickly with use. Its light tread pattern worked well on hard, flat surfaces like concrete and tile, making it a solid everyday shoe.
Should you buy it? If you want a barefoot shoe that embraces minimalism without overwhelming newcomers, the Arnow is an excellent pick. Just don't expect it to replace a hiking shoe, as it lacks lugs and grip for rugged terrain. But for daily wear or urban use, we don't have much to complain about—it nails the barefoot essentials.
The Arnow is very flexible after the first wear.
Credit: Alex Glades
How We Tested
Here at GearLab, we have been testing shoes of all types for well over a decade. Of course, we included barefoot styles in our hundreds of shoes tested in hand, or rather, on foot. We start by scoring the ground feedback and stability. This includes precise measurements of stack height, insole height (should one be included), weight, and width. Then we took the shoes or a spin, walking and running on various surfaces and noting how they performed along the way. We took casual strolls and at-pace runs on various terrain. Being barefoot shoes, we noted how well we could feel the ground under our feet, whether it be twigs, rocks, or concrete.
Our tests were divided into 5 key metrics:
Ground Feedback (30% of overall score)
Stability (20%)
Traction (20%)
Weight (15%)
Durability (15%)
Why Trust GearLab
Leading the men's barefoot testing team is Alex Glades and Jon Oleson. Alex is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Clockwork Physiotherapy. For his day-to-day, he looks towards barefoot shoes. He is a strong believer in foot-strengthening techniques and how this impacts your overall posture. He finds 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. Our women's team is led by Becca Glades and Lyra Pierotti. 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. Lyra is an AMGA member and AIARE instructor. When she isn't in the backcountry for backcountry ski trips, she is often traveling around the world. A minimalist shoe not only keeps her travel backpack light, but keeps her feet strong, a win-win.
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 some steps to take to make the transition more doable. 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 a certain degree, they almost all have the same things in common. First, they have minimal stack height. This refers to the millimeters of cushion that separates your foot from 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. 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.
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III has one of the shortest stack heights in the review, with just seven millimeters underfoot.
Credit: Alex Glades
Next, barefoot shoes have zero heel-to-toe drop. This means that the stack height stays consistent throughout the length of the shoe. So, your heel will not have any height advantage to your toe. Barefoot shoes also have plenty of flexibility. Your foot should not be restricted in any way as you walk with barefoot shoes on, so they need to be very flexible.
The Vapor Glove is one of the bendiest shoes we have tested, meaning it will move with your foot in any direction.
Credit: Rebecca Glades
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.
Some shoes have wider and less tapered toe boxes. Compared is the Whitin Minimalist (left) and the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III (right). The Whitin has a much more roomy toe box and doesn't taper as soon.
Credit: Rebecca 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 is able to properly splay when walking, meaning the walls of the shoe do not restrict your toes. This is also thanks to the natural strike of your foot, which can be interfered with by an overly cushioned shoe, often causing 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, 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 all the time, while others prefer the absolute minimum underfoot. Our testers have their preferences, but we will let you be the judge of it yourself. 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 smaller stack height. If you are used to a cushiony shoe with a thick foam under your foot, you might opt for a barefoot shoe with a larger stack height. Barefoot shoes typically don't go above 15 millimeters in stack height, so choosing one closer to that end will bridge the gap between your cushiony shoe and the most minimal. As you get used to the barefoot feel, you might choose the next shoe with less 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 with shoes on? If so, you aren't giving your feet much practice. Start by kicking off the shoes when you get home and walk 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 the flexibility of a shoe. You shouldn't be restricted by your shoe as you are walking 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 about the curvature. The same goes for flexing your toes when walking. Your toes should bend up at the end of your stride. If a shoe is stiff, it will prevent this natural bend in your toes. When you see these shoes doing gymnastics, it is to show how flexible they are so you can get an idea of how your foot will move within 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 don't have much traction. If you need an option with better traction for outdoor use, this criteria will narrow down your options. 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 boot. Most barefoot shoes are made with lightweight and 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
Conclusion
If you are new to the world of barefoot shoes, we hope we have guided you through the process of transitioning to the style. Or, if you are a barefoot shoe expert, we hope we have helped you find your next pair of shoes. Whether you are searching for a barefoot runner, hiking shoe, or winter boot, you can rest assured that our team has gone the distance to find the best barefoot shoes available.
—Alex Glades, Aaron Rice, Lyra Pierotti, and Becca Glades
