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We realize that “barefoot shoe” is an oxymoron, but hear us out. The goal of this type of footwear is to put a minimal amount of material between your foot and the ground while still providing some support and protection from the objective hazards. Research suggests they can strengthen muscles, encourage better posture, and allow for a more natural gait. Many with wider feet swear by barefoot shoes, which often feature a wide toe box that allows for toe splay so that feet are not constrained by a restrictive shoe. They may feel strange at first, but many people grow to love them!
Our expert panel walked, skipped, and ran on various surfaces to see how “barefoot” this lineup of barefoot shoes really was. The world of barefoot shoes continues to grow, with options for boots, running, hiking, and casual options. We tested a variety of styles, and the ones listed here are our absolute favorites of the bunch.
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 tested other footwear, too — our sandals review has many options, including more minimalist models that will fit right in with your warm-weather wardrobe. If you aren't sure a barefoot shoe is right for you, we've also tested running shoes and shoes for hiking.
Editor's Note: We updated our barefoot shoes review on February 7, 2024, with some different award winners.
The Merrell Trail Glove 7 was one of our favorites in the men's lineup. Its lightly inverted Vibram tread bottom is great for tackling anything from sidewalks to trails, yet it isn't burly enough to feel a lack of ground feedback. The toe box let our toes splay without feeling confined, and our tester with the widest feet even noted, “It's hard for me to find comfortable shoes right out of the box, but these are the exception.” These are a great place to start if you are thinking about barefoot shoes. We still felt a decent amount underfoot, but the shoe wasn't as jarring as some of the other models in the lineup. In time, you can work your way down to a lower stack shoe if you choose. However, stack height isn't the only thing that makes up a barefoot shoe, and we think the Trail Glove does “barefoot” well.
These shoes have a larger-than-most stack height of 14 millimeters. If you are going for the most barefoot shoe, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 might suit you better as it has a six-millimeter stack. However, we appreciate the option with slightly more underfoot as it makes it more versatile for various walking surfaces. This option is great for those who are just getting into barefoot shoes thanks to this slight cushion. It also makes a nice trail shoe because of this light amount of underfoot protection.
Both male and female testers loved the barefoot shoes from Merrell. Our female cohort specifically liked the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 for their very barefoot feel. Lead tester Becca Glades commented, “I was surprised at just how much I could feel under my feet in these shoes.” They have just six millimeters underfoot and a very flexible body. Testers appreciated the wide toe box that allows a full toe splay, step by step. The lightweight mesh fabric is breathable and allows any moisture to quickly escape or dry. We accidentally stepped in a puddle during our testing and were pleasantly surprised to find the shoe dry so quickly afterward. We took these on our travels with us because they were so lightweight at 10.4 ounces for the pair. When not in use, we could stow them in our bag without adding much weight to our luggage.
The Vapor Glove has very little underfoot. While we still felt protected from rocks and sticks, these will have a harder transition for those new to barefoot-style shoes. We recommend a shoe with a thicker stack height if you are new to the style, like the Merrell Trail Glove 7 - Women's. Additionally, the Vapor Glove has no removable insole, which can further complicate a barefoot transition. Because the shoes are so airy, they won't be the warmest in cooler climates, though a thick pair of socks might help.
The Lems Primal Zen is one of our favorite everyday shoes. “When headed to the grocery store or to walk my dogs, I often reach for this shoe,” confessed our lead tester. The Primal Zen has a more casual look, which can be dressed up for a night out or down for a more sporty look. They pass the flex test thanks to the small gap in faux leather near the first toe knuckle, which prevents any stiffness. The toe box is also wide. As a result, our feet were able to move naturally, as if we weren't even wearing shoes. The fabric above the toe is lightweight and airy, while the faux leather is thicker and more protective. These shoes will handle multiple seasons thanks to this variety of materials; just be sure to choose thicker socks during winter as the upper won't protect you from the cold.
There isn't much to dislike about the Primal Zen. However, finding the right fit can be a challenge. The shoes run very small, and our testers ended up needing to order a few pairs to find the right fit. These aren't our top choice when going for a run either. Instead, we recommend a more fitted shoe, like the Xero HFS II - Women's. The Primal Zen aren't the most sensitive underfoot as the outsole is slightly more stiff than others. It is still exceptionally flexible, but we didn't feel as much underfoot when compared to others. As soon as we removed the insole, we felt a substantial amount more. That said, we think these are an excellent first barefoot shoe for those looking to switch. Including the insole eases the transition. When you're ready, remove them for an even more barefoot feel.
Our entire barefoot testing team can't stop raving about the Whitin Minimalist. The wide toe box has a natural shape, so our toes were never restricted. They are among the widest in our lineup with a reasonably short stack height, so naturally, they are among the most stable in the lineup. The lacing system is easily adjustable to different foot shapes. Our head tester remarked, “I have high arches and didn't have any trouble loosening the shoe enough to fit well.” The Whitins were comfortable from the get-go and didn't cause any hot spots for our testers. They have a versatile style that can be worn at the gym or to work.
The Whitin is one of the heavier sneaker-style shoes in our bunch. However, they aren't so heavy that we feel restricted. They are also not stitched together but rather glued together. While we didn't see any problems in our testing, we have questions on the longevity of the shoe. These aren't our top choice for going on runs as the fabric has some play in it, unlike the Xero HFS II which feels snug. However, we think the Minimalists are great for the gym because of how stable they are, and in a pinch, they are okay to run in. Best of all, these high-performing shoes are among the most affordable in our lineup. The value is hard to beat.
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is nearly as minimal as it gets. Even among barefoot shoes it has a particularly thin low profile upper, and the sole's tread depth is shallow to the point of being almost smooth. This results in an excellent ground feel and sense of connection to what's under your feet. It excels in the gym and on firm surfaces. Much of the upper material has broad sections of perforated fabric, allowing the foot to breathe. The shoe's upper feels almost rubbery, and this material seems more durable against tearing than some of the other shoes we tested with have a soft, stretchy fabric upper. We particularly like this option for the gym because the wide base provides a stable feel underfoot.
While the smooth tread design works great in the gym or most other man-made surfaces, the necessary drawback is that it leads to some slippage on loose surfaces. “The only time I felt unstable in these shoes was when navigating loose slopes or racing down sinuous sandy trails,” our tester said. For those with wider feet or those with a medium to high arch, the fit might be a bit tight across the top of the midfoot (where the lower laces are). A little extra room can be had by removing the optional insole. The shoe is so low profile that there's not a lot of fabric on the upper to accommodate much volume on the inside. And though the shoe has more width and natural toe shape than regular non-barefoot style shoes, the toe box does start to taper back more dramatically than the other barefoot shoes in this lineup. For a more square shaped toe box that doesn't taper towards the pinky toe, check out the Whitin Minimalist or Merrell Trail Glove 7.
Fit like a glove, the Vibram V-Trail 2.0 hugs each and every toe as a FiveFinger shoe. These shoes are about as barefoot as you can get, with a 5.7-millimeter stack and lightweight upper. These are reasonably lightweight when compared to non-barefoot styles, weighing 14.6 for the pair. We felt just about everything under our feet in these shoes, though slightly dampened from the minimal outsole. Additionally, our toes were free to move and splay in whatever way was functionally needed. As such, we felt stable while wearing these shoes on various terrains. These shoes are technically trail runners, which is why they boast such excellent traction. The 3.7-millimeter outsole has an aggressive tread pattern with triangular lugs that bite into the earth. The rugged outsole is also resistant to wear and tear with its puncture-resistant polyester.
These shoes certainly have a unique style that isn't for everyone. If you are doing a full dive into the world of barefoot, you can't get more barefoot than the Vibram V-Trail 2.0. However, we think these would be tough for those new to the style. Instead, we suggest a shoe with a larger stack to ease your way in, like the Merrell Trail Glove 7. These are also more difficult to put on than a normal shoe. Wiggling each toe into the right hole takes practice, and these aren't a pair of shoes we would want to take on and off during our outing.
The Vivobarefoot Tracker II FG is a boot that can't be beat. It is so durable that we have no hesitation taking it on the toughest trails. The 2.5-millimeter lugs provide enough traction, while the 0.08-millimeter-thick Pro5 Puncture Resistant finish protects the thin rubber sole from sharp rocks and sticks. “I feel confident hiking around in these boots, and I still feel connected to the ground below,” our tester says. For a barefoot boot, you can't go wrong with the Tracker.
These boots, however, aren't the lightest in our lineup. Reasonably so, they have a decent amount more material used to create the sturdy ankle support. They are also among the most expensive shoes in the lineup. The Xero Shoes DayLite Hiker Fusion is another barefoot boot option at a fraction of the price. While they are equipped with 3.5-millimeter lugs and a wide footbed, we still prefer the Trackers for their waterproof design. If you live somewhere that gets cold, or you want to extend your barefoot shoe preference to hiking, these are an excellent choice.
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.
The Xero HFS II is our shoe of choice for running. While most barefoot shoes have an inverted tread, the HFS has a traditional lug-style tread. Our tester remarked, “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.” Their removable sole can offer some extra cushion for those new to barefoot-style shoes. They have a breathable and lightweight upper that makes them perfect for exercise. Beyond their running capabilities, we were happy to wear these shoes around town. They have a minimalist feel and weigh in at just 14.2 ounces for a women's 9.
The HFS II has a more narrow fit compared to others in the lineup. They still fit our testers with wide feet, but they needed to loosen the laces quite a bit. This made the laces very short, barely allowing one knot. If you have narrow to medium volume feet, this shouldn't be a problem. However, those with wider feet might prefer the closely related Xero Shoes Prio.
When headed out on a run, the Xero HFS II was our go-to option.
Credit: Rebecca 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 bag light, but keeps her feet strong, a win-win.
We even tested these out as a water shoe (alongside another similar option), and they held up great.
Twisting the shoes up like this gives us a good representation of how flexible the shoe is and how well it will move with your body.
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 used to an ultra-cushiony shoe with a heel-to-toe drop, the transition might be a little 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.
The Whitin twists up with relative ease.
The Whitin rolled up to represent just how much these shoes will move with you.
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
