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Barefoot shoes continue to innovate and grow in popularity. People are turning to barefoot shoes for their CrossFit workouts, weekly runs, lifting sessions, and daily wear. Barefoot shoes come with a fairly wide range of benefits depending on the context in which you plan to use them.
If you’re new to barefoot shoes, then you’ll definitely want to check out my barefoot shoes guide. This guide will help you properly acclimate to barefoot shoes, so when you make your selection below, you’ll be much more poised to wear your new barefoot shoes without running into a bunch of foot fatigue.
Below, I’ve broken all of my favorite barefoot shoes into different sections based on the context in which you plan to use your barefoot shoes.
Best of the Best: If you want a really good barefoot shoe for casual wear and working out for a fair price, then I’d suggest checking out the Tolos Archetype 1.0. This model is stellar and rivals shoes like the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III which is also a great option.
My Top Picks for the Best Barefoot Shoes
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Lifting: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III | Tolos Archetype 1.0
- Best Barefoot Shoes for CrossFit: Xero Shoes 360 | Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Running: Xero Shoes Zelen | Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit
- Best Barefoot Shoes Women: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit | Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Men: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III | Icarus Ascent
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Beginners: Xero Shoes Prio | Splay FREESTYLE
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Walking and Daily Wear: Vivobarefoot Primus Asana | Wildling Shoes Chestnut
- Best Barefoot Shoes for Trail Running and Hiking: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG | Xero Shoes Mesa Trail
- Best Cheap Barefoot Shoes: WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers | Xero Shoes Prio
Best Barefoot Shoes TakeawaysAuthor’s Note: This article was updated in March of 2023. This update reflects new shoes that I’ve reviewed that have been added to the categories below based on their performance and how they stack up to their peers.
Best Barefoot Shoes for Lifting
When looking for the best barefoot shoes for lifting, I’m considering two key aspects. First, I want to get as close to the ground as possible when training heavy and lifting so models with removable insoles are often my preferred choices.
Second, I want the toe box to have ample room for toe splay so I can truly grip the floor and equipment with ease. Below, are two of my favorite options for barefoot shoes optimized for lifting.
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III is an awesome option for lifting-focused individuals. This shoe has a toe box that is plenty wide for accommodating toe splay so even if you have wide feet you should never run into issues in this model in regard to width.
I also like that this model has a removable insole with a finished internal construction. The Active Sole is only 4mm thick. For deadlifts, you can get super close to the ground in this model and it’s an awesome barbell-friendly barefoot shoe.
The upper construction is breathable and it’s made with recycled materials which is a nice perk for being a bit more environmentally conscious.
For my lower body sessions, I’m constantly finding myself reaching for the Primus Lite III. The minimalist sole allows for easy foot articulation so if you’re lunging, doing active foot exercises, or biasing any areas of the feet while training it’s super easy to do so in the Primus Lite III.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting and Barbell Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
$160
Best For
- Heavy Weight Training
- Daily Wear
- Casual Workouts
- Lighter Runs and Athletic Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Longer Barefoot-Style Running Workouts
2. Tolos Archetype 1.0
The Tolos Archetype 1.0 is taking my second pick as the best barefoot shoe for lifting. To be honest, I regularly rotate between my Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III and Tolos Archetype 1.0 for lifting as they’re both strong performers.
The perks of the Tolos Archetype 1.0 for lifting revolve around its low-profile and athletic fit and how well it articulates. For heavy deadlifts and squats on rubber gym floors and wooden platforms, the Archetype of 1.0 grips the floor well.
I also like how well the Tolos Archetype 1.0 can articulate with exercises like lunges and active foot exercises where you’re getting a lot of flexion through the toes and midfoot. These also feel better as you break them in more.
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Versus Tolos Archetype 1.0 Toe Box
I think the only drawback that some lifters may have with the Tolos Archetype 1.0 is that its toe box isn’t as boxy as models like the Primus Lite III. If you have a foot that tends to work best with barefoot shoes that have a boxier toe box, then you’ll want to consider this.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting and Barbell Training
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 7.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Doesn’t come with an insole
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Tolos Archetype 1.0 Review
Tolos Archetype 1.0
$115
Best For
- Daily/Casual Wear
- Recreational Lifting
- Athletic Training
- All-Around Performance for the Price
Falls Short
- For Custom Insoles
Best Barefoot Shoes for CrossFit
Until recently, there hasn’t really been a ton of barefoot shoes designed for CrossFit. A great barefoot CrossFit shoe will need a couple of characteristics that separate it from other barefoot shoes on the market.
These two characteristics include a more durable upper construction and outsoles that provide grip for multi-directional activity. For this style of training, durability is the name of the game, and below are my two favorite options.
1. Xero Shoes 360
The Xero Shoes 360 is designed specifically for functional fitness and CrossFit-focused athletes. Compared to the Xero Shoes Prio and HFS, this model has a few standout features that make it unique.
The first aspect is its upper construction and how durable it is. This model has a suede toe box overlay and rubber ribs covering the forefoot for abrasion resistance.
On top of this, this model’s removable insole provides a nice level of responsiveness that you can keep in or take out based on your preferences. In workouts where I’m jumping a lot, I’ll leave it in, then take it out for some of my heavier training and it’s nice having that option. The sole also wraps up the lateral and medial side of the forefoot for additional traction.
For the context of CrossFit, I really enjoy how well the Xero Shoes 360 grips the floor and different surfaces in things like box jumps, cleans, and double-unders. They may not be the prettiest barefoot shoe on the market, but for tackling CrossFit workouts and versatile training they get the job done.
- Best For: CrossFit and Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 10.2 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes 360 Review
Xero Shoes 360
$119.99
Best For
- Heavy Lifting
- Functional Fitness Workouts
- Short Runs and Sprints
- Daily Wear
Falls Short
- For Long-Term Durability
2. Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 is a really good runner-up for our CrossFit section. This model has a few key features for supporting CrossFit workouts and it’s one of the better-looking barefoot shoes on the market, in my opinion.
The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 features a lightweight breathable upper construction with ROPE-TEC throughout the mid-foot for resisting abrasion from rope climbs. The 3mm POWER FOOTBED in this model also gives you a nice close-to-the-ground feeling, which helps promote how responsive this model feels in regard to the foot being able to articulate and feel the ground.
The forefoot is flexible and gives you a lot of connection with the ground when jumping and tackling shorter runs. I think for casual CrossFit workouts this model is overall really solid and they’ll hold up well to the demands of CrossFit workouts.
Remember to acclimate to this style of footwear if you plan to use these exclusively for CrossFit. The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3’s lightweight nature and athletic fit also reminds me of some of my favorite pairs of Inov-8 cross-training shoes.
- Best For: CrossFit, Lifting, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 6.95 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 Review
Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
$120
Best For
- Functional Fitness
- Heavy Resistance Training
- Daily Wear
- Shorter and Mid-Range Runs
Falls Short
- For Delivering Maximal Toe Box Width
- For Lateral Training
Best Barefoot Shoes for Running
Barefoot running shoes need to account for outsole durability. Since barefoot shoes have thin soles, to begin with, the soles utilized for barefoot running need to have enough tread for traction and long-term scuff support.
Below, I’ve provided two of my favorite barefoot shoes for running. Please note, I am by no means someone who is running marathons in their barefoot shoes, but I’ll use them for shorter and mid-range runs (4-5 miles tops), so if that sounds like you, then the models below should be a good fit for you.
1. Xero Shoes Zelen
My favorite barefoot shoe for running is the Xero Shoes Zelen. This shoe delivers a strong performance for hybrid training sessions where you want to blend running with lifting.
I like that the Xero Shoes Zelen utilizes a tire-like tread on the sole. This feature gives you a nice bite on different surfaces and it feels grippy for faster sprint sessions and steady-state runs.
The upper in the Zelen is also a perk for running as it breathes super well. This can be a good model to wear with or without socks in warmer settings, so if you like to vary your sock use in barefoot shoes when running, you’ll enjoy this feature.
More specifically, if you’re looking for a barefoot shoe for running and lifting, the Zelen does a good job. Its flexibility, removable insole, and durability for both of these contexts are solid across the board.
- Best For: Shorter to Mid-Range Runs and Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes Zelen Review
Xero Shoes Zelen
$129.99
Best For
- Short and Mid-Range Runs
- Outdoor Training
- Recreational Lifting
- Environmental-Conscious Shoppers
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Colder Months
2. Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit
The Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit is a great option for the runner that loves having a lighter-weight upper construction. The claim to fame in this model is its knit upper.
Personally, I enjoy how much the knit upper breathes and how maneuverable and lightweight it is. It’s a good option for both running inside and outsole in regard to breathability.
The 4mm thick Active Sole on this model is also a nice feature for promoting connection with the ground when running. I like that there’s a removable insole in this model as well and that the internal construction is finished so you can have variety with your “cushioning”.
The hexagon tread on the Active Sole is also nice for promoting traction on concrete, tracks, and treadmills. As long as you’re not running on wet surfaces, this model should grip the ground well.
- Best For: Shorter to Mid-Range Runs, Daily Wear, and Lifting
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 9 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit Review
Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit
$170
Best For
- Heavy Strength Training
- Recreational Workouts
- Casual Running and Versatile Sessions
- Daily Wear
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Longer Runs and HIIT
Best Barefoot Shoes for Women
When it comes to the best barefoot shoes for women, I defer greatly to my YouTube community and the feedback they provide on reviews.
The summation of the feedback I receive from women athletes is how I created the list below. Basically, I look for trends per the feedback I receive and blend that with my reviews to see what others have suggested being their favorite barefoot shoes for women.
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is taking the top pick as the best barefoot shoe for women. There’s a lot to like about the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit from its appearance for daily wear and its performance in the gym.
The first thing to like about the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is its upper construction. The knit upper on this model breathes well for warmer weather use and it looks good from a daily wear appearance point of view.
Another perk of the Primus Lite Knit is the Active Sole used in this shoe. This Active Sole has a stack height and thickness of 4mm so you get a nice low-to-the-ground feeling with this model.
For working out, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit works well for lifting and most cross-training contexts. The upper could be a little more secure for advanced plyometrics, but for most general training sessions, the Primus Lite Knit works really well.
- Best For: Walking and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size (if you’re in-between sizes, size down as these can run long)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
$170
Best For
- Recreational Lifting
- Casual Cross-Training
- Short Runs
- Daily Wear
- Wide Feet
Falls Short
- Serious Athletic Training Sessions
- Multi-Directional Exercises
2. Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
The Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 is a great option for women due to its overall last construction. This model’s toe box is slightly narrower than some of the shoes on this list.
For this reason, it can be a good model for women who may not have the widest feet and this is a big deal to prevent sliding around a ton in your barefoot shoes while training.
Another pro to this model for women is how great it looks on a daily wear basis. Some of the barefoot shoes out there are not the most aesthetically pleasing (cough cough, here’s looking to you, Xero Shoes).
I love the look of the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 and I think this is one of the better models for both casual and training-focused wear. If you’re looking for a casual barefoot shoe for a little bit of running, lifting, CrossFit, and daily wear, then the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 is a good shoe to look into.
- Best For: CrossFit, Lifting, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 6.95 oz (for my size 10 model, 11.5 in women’s)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 Review
Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3
$120
Best For
- Functional Fitness
- Heavy Resistance Training
- Daily Wear
- Shorter and Mid-Range Runs
Falls Short
- For Delivering Maximal Toe Box Width
- For Lateral Training
Best Barefoot Shoes for Men
When considering the best barefoot shoes for men, my first concern is the overall width of the shoe’s midfoot and toe box. Since men, generally, have wider feet, they’ll want to ensure their barefoot are plenty wide for their needs.
In addition, I’m also considering a shoe’s overall durability since this is important to ensure your investment goes the distance.
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
For guys, my top pick is the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III. This model has three key features that I think play well into what guys typically look for in their barefoot shoes. First, the width of this shoe’s forefoot and mid-foot are really wide so there’s never an issue with sizing and fit in this model.
Second, the overall durability of this model is pretty solid across the board. Whether you’re lifting, running, or wearing them on a daily basis, the upper construction should last you a while.
Third and lastly, this model looks good for daily wear and has a clean aesthetic to it. I like this for giving this model more versatility in regard to when it can be worn.
For a final bonus perk of this shoe, Vivobarefoot uses some recycled materials in different elements of this shoe so it is a decent model in regard to responsible material sourcing. If you’re looking for a singular barefoot shoe to do a little bit of everything in, then the Primus Lite III is a good bet.
- Best For: Heavy Lifting, Daily Wear, and Shorter Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size, but there are no half sizes (except for 12.5)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
$160
Best For
- Heavy Weight Training
- Daily Wear
- Casual Workouts
- Lighter Runs and Athletic Training
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Longer Barefoot-Style Running Workouts
2. Icarus Ascent
The Icarus Ascent is taking my second pick for the best barefoot shoes for men. I wanted to include the Ascent in this section because it offers a nice contrast in construction and purpose compared to the Primus Lite III.
If you’re wanting a barefoot shoe for daily wear, and more specifically a white leather barefoot shoe, the Icarus Ascent can be a great option to explore. This shoe looks good for casual wear and can be a good commute-friendly barefoot shoe.
Another perk of the Icarus Ascent is that it comes with three different insoles that vary in thickness. They have a thicker insole, middle-thickness insole, and a minimalist option so you can pick the level of cushion you want based on your needs.
I personally really like this because you can then vary this shoe’s fit and feel based on your daily wear contexts and preferences. The width of this is good and their outsole construction has a nice level of grip.
- Best For: Casual Wear, Light Exercise, and Walking
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 9.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Icarus Ascent Review
Icarus Ascent
$144
Best For
- Casual Lifting
- All-Day Wear
- Walking and Standing
- Barefoot Shoe Beginners
Falls Short
- For Serious Training
- For Hotter Climates
Best Barefoot Shoes for Beginners
When discussing the best barefoot shoes for beginners, I’m constantly wondering, “What is the best barefoot shoe for someone’s first pair?”
Below are two of my favorite beginner-friendly barefoot shoes. These models are awesome due to their budget and overall functionality.
1. Xero Shoes Prio
It’s tough to fault the Xero Shoes Prio as the first barefoot shoe for a barefoot shoe beginner. This model’s price point of $89.99 USD is fair and it’s a good model for tackling a little bit of everything.
You can lift in these shoes, wear them on a daily basis, run in them, and even tackle HIIT workouts with them. The sole is pretty good for everything and it has a nice level of durability.
I also like that the Xero Shoes Prio has a removable insole and finished internal construction. This is great because it gives you a variety of cushioning so you can experiment with what you prefer and need when starting out your barefoot shoe journey.
As a tried and true budget-friendly option, the Prio is a good pick. Plus, Xero Shoes come with a 5,000-mile sole warranty, so the long-term durability of this model’s sole is also not a huge concern which is great for the first-time barefoot shoe wearer.
- Best For: Casual Wear, Lifting, Shorter Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes Prio Review
Xero Shoes Prio
$89.99
Best For
- Heavy Barbell Work
- Recreational Lifting
- Casual Runs
- Barefoot Shoe Newbies
- Cost Efficiency
Falls Short
- For Dedicated Barefoot Runners
2. Splay FREESTYLE
The Splay FREESTYLE is taking my second pick as the best beginner-friendly barefoot shoe. There’s a lot to like about the Splay FREESTYLE and it’s one of my favorite barefoot shoes because it’s relatively no-frills with a good price point.
The Splay FREESTYLE has a price that sits around $72.99 USD and if you want a clean-looking shoe primarily for daily wear use, then I think the price is fair for this model. They’re relatively durable for this context, too, so your investment should go the distance.
I also like the simplistic upper construction that comes with the Splay FREESTYLE and that it has a Converse and Vans vibe to it. If you enjoy shoes that have uppers with limited to no branding, then I think you’ll enjoy the FREESTYLE.
Another perk of the Splay FREESTYLE is this shoe’s width. This model should provide enough width for most foot anatomies, so it’s a pretty safe bet for beginners who are learning what widths are best for them. Note, if you’re a beginner and want a truly budget-friendly barefoot shoe, then I’d suggest looking at the WHITIN Barefoot Sneaker below.
- Best For: Beginner-Friendly, Budget-Friendly, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 11.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Splay Freestyle Review
Splay FREESTYLE
$72.99
Best For
- Daily Wear
- Walking and Casual Wear
- Cost-Efficiency
Falls Short
- For Versatile Activities
Best Barefoot Shoes for Walking and Daily Wear
When it comes to testing the best barefoot shoes for daily wear and walking, I’m mostly concerned with a shoe’s comfort, appearance, and long-term durability.
Likely, you’ll be wanting these barefoot shoes for commuting, wearing out and about, and you’ll want something that can be dynamic with its ability to match multiple outfits, which can be tough to do with barefoot shoes, at times.
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Asana
The Vivobarefoot Primus Asana is taking my top pick as the best barefoot shoe for daily wear and walking. This model has a lot going for it and it can be a great pair of casual wear barefoot shoes. You can also use these for casual training and workouts as well.
For starters, the appearance of the Primus Asana is a big perk of this model. This shoe features a blend of Woolmark merino wool and Wildhide leather, which help to give this shoe a classier and refined look.
To be honest, I think the Vivobarefoot Primus Asana is one of the better, if not the best, looking barefoot shoes from Vivobarefoot. The blend of wool and leather gives this shoe a nice level of thermoregulation, especially for spring, summer, and fall.
I also like that Vivobarefoot used their Active Sole in this model. This sole is 4mm thick and it gives you a nice level of ground feedback. I think it does a decent job with traction on different surfaces, which adds to this shoe’s versatility for daily wear.
- Best For: Walking, Casual Training, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 9.8 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size (half sizes, see my full review for a sizing breakdown)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Asana Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Asana
$170
Best For
- Casual Wear
- Walking
- Multi-Seasonal Wear (Spring, Summer, and Fall)
- Casual Workouts
Falls Short
- For Cost-Efficiency
- For Upper Security
2. Wildling Shoes Chestnut
The Wildling Shoes Chestnut is taking my second pick as the best barefoot shoe for daily wear. I wanted to include the Wildling Shoes Chestnut in this category because it provides a nice variance to the Vivobarefoot Primus Asana above.
In the context of daily wear, the Wildling Shoes Chestnut is great because it has a nice casual appearance to it. It’s an easy barefoot shoe to wear with different outfits and despite having a high-top boot it looks good with pants and shorts.
This shoe has an internal wool construction that provides a nice level of warmth and these can be pretty good all-season barefoot shoes. They’re warm if you wear them in cooler months and they have decent thermoregulation if you go sockless on warmer days.
The width of these shoes is also pretty great and they should work for most foot widths. My only knock against this shoe is that you will want to weather-proof them if you’re wearing them on wet days, so it’s an extra step you’ll have to take with these shoes.
- Best For: Walking, Cooler Month Wear, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.6 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Wildling Shoes Chestnut Review
Wildling Shoes Chestnut
$139
Best For
- All-Season Use (Dry Climates)
- Casual Wear
- Business Casual Wear
- High-Top Shoe Lovers
Falls Short
- For Long-Term Durability
- For Wet Climates
Best Barefoot Shoes for Trail Running and Hiking
To assess barefoot shoes for trail running and hiking, I’m most concerned with three features of every barefoot trail shoe. First, I assess the outsole tread. Does it provide enough grip for tackling different types of trails?
Second, I assess upper durability. Trails can vary a lot when you’re running and hiking, so I want to make sure the shoes can withstand different elements and obstacles without ripping. Third, I assess comfort and foot protection. How much protection does the shoe give for accidentally hitting sharp objects on the trail?
1. Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG
The Vivobafrefoot Primus Trail Knit FG is taking my top pick as the best barefoot shoe for hiking and trail runs. Honestly, this shoe is taking the win here by a fairly comfortable margin.
There’s a lot to like about the Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG and one of my favorite things about this shoe is its versatility. For example, this shoe works really well for hiking, trail running, working out, and even daily wear.
The knit upper construction gives this shoe a comfortable and breathable fit while the thicker lugs do a good job of promoting traction on different surfaces. I actually like doing versatile training in the Primus Trail Knit FG over the Primus Lite Knit for this reason.
Outside of its upper and grippy outsole, I also like FG tech in this shoe and how it provides a bit more protection for trail use. It’s not as minimalist feeling as the Merrell Vapor Glove 6, however, if you like a little more protection then you’ll appreciate this.
- Best For: Trail Running, Hiking, Working Out, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 11.35 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size (if you’re in-between sizes, size down as they run long)
- Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG Review
Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG
$180
Best For
- Hiking (Easy to Technical Terrain)
- Weight Training
- Daily Wear
- Versatile Workouts
Falls Short
- For Winter Hiking
- For Half-Sizes
2. Xero Shoes Mesa Trail
The Xero Shoes Mesa Trail is taking my second pick as the best barefoot shoe for hiking and trail runs for three key reasons. First, I like the 3.5mm lugs that are used on this shoe’s outsole.
I found that these lugs provide enough grip for light and moderate terrains and they even work well when doing rock scrambles and tackling different obstacles you might run into when hiking and trail running.
Second, I like the 3mm hidden layer of “TrailFoam” in this model. Personally, I like having a tiny bit of protection when using barefoot shoes on trails that can be a bit more varied with their terrain and I think this construction feature helps make this shoe more dynamic. Basically, even if you’re newer to barefoot shoes for trails, this model is a good bet for not beating your feet up too much.
Third, I like the upper construction in the Xero Shoes Mesa Trail and that you can remove its insole. The upper construction on this shoe is fairly durable and it’s layered in areas where abrasion typically happens most like the toe box. In regard to the insole, I like that you can have variance with how this shoe feels so you can select how much “feel” you want when rocking these.
- Best For: Trail Running, Hiking, and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8 oz (for my size 10 model)
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes Mesa Trail Review
Xero Shoes Mesa Trail
$119.99
Best For
- Trail Running
- Light and Semi-Technical Terrain
- Casual Outdoor Wear
- Light to Moderate Hikes
Falls Short
- For Highly Technical Terrain
- For Super Muddy Hikes and Trails
Best Budget Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes can vary pretty greatly in price, and not everyone wants to drop $100 USD plus on a pair of barefoot shoes, especially if you want them for more casual use or for experimenting with.
Below, I’m going to provide two of my favorite picks for the best budget barefoot shoes. One option is for those on a super tight budget that want to spend less than $50 USD and the other is for those that want to spend less than $100 USD.
1. WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers
The WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers are taking my top pick for the best budget barefoot shoes. Not going to lie, I was skeptical of this shoe going into them based on their price point and the fact that WHITIN is Amazon-owned.
However, I’m happy to say that I’ve been subtly impressed with the WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers, especially for their price point. These shoes have a normal price of $59.99 USD but are often on sale and I bought my pair for $41.99 USD.
For beginners who are just getting into barefoot shoes, these can be a great low-cost option. Plus, these shoes do have a bit more thickness to them regarding their sole and stack height which is great for those transitioning into barefoot shoes.
This may be a knock for those that love super minimalist feeling shoes, but for beginners and from a general comfort standpoint I enjoyed this model for walking, standing, and daily wear. These are also decent all-season shoes for what they are.
- Best For: Budget Shoppers and Daily Wear
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 10.15 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size (if you’re in-between sizes, size up)
- Read My Review: WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers Review
WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers
$59.99
Best For
- Barefoot Shoe Beginners
- Walking and Standing
- Budget Conscious Shoppers
- Medium to Wide Feet
Falls Short
- For Long-Term Durability
- For Squeaking On Certain Floors
2. Xero Shoes Prio
If you want a budget barefoot shoe that costs less than $100 USD and has a strong construction, then the Xero Shoes Prio can be a great shoe to look into.
This model has a lot going for it and it’s made my list multiple times for multiple reasons. For starters, these shoes have a price point of $89.99 USD and if you can find them on sale, then you’re getting a solid value for the price.
I also like that the Xero Shoes Prio can hold its own in so many different contexts. You can work out hard in the Prio, wear them for long walks and even runs, wear them daily, and they should perform well for you.
I also like the long-term durability of the Xero Shoes Prio and that they tend to last a while for their price. My only complaint about the Xero Shoes Prio is that I do wish they’d update this shoe’s upper to be a little more aesthetic.
- Best For: Casual Wear, Budget Shoppers, Lifting, Shorter Runs
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 8.85 oz
- Removable Insole: Yes
- Sizing: True to Size
- Read My Review: Xero Shoes Prio Review
Xero Shoes Prio
$89.99
Best For
- Heavy Barbell Work
- Recreational Lifting
- Casual Runs
- Barefoot Shoe Newbies
- Cost Efficiency
Falls Short
- For Dedicated Barefoot Runners
Why Use Barefoot Shoes?
Barefoot shoes can be used for a variety of reasons and I think it’s important that you define why you want to wear them if you’re investing in a pair. Most commonly, barefoot shoes will be worn to support one’s “natural movement”.
Basically, when we wear shoes we’ll alter our movement mechanics slightly and barefoot shoes will be utilized to limit this and provide a barefoot approach for regular movement. This can then influence our lower body mechanics when walking, running, and lifting because our feet will have a 0mm heel-to-toe drop and be a lot closer to the ground.
Another reason why folks will utilize barefoot shoes is to build up their foot musculature. There are 29 muscles associated with the foot and ankle. (1) When we’re constantly wearing shoes, especially pairs with thicker midsole and outsole constructions, we can lose out on potentially building up the musculature of the feet and ankles.
By using barefoot shoes, we’ll be exposing the foot to a more variable environment so we can slowly build the intrinsic muscles of the foot. In layman’s terms, barefoot shoes will help our feet rapidly change their positioning when moving due to them fully feeling the ground below them which can result in us using some of the smaller muscles in the foot.
Barefoot Shoes Benefits
Barefoot shoe benefits can vary pretty greatly depending on who you ask. For diehard barefoot shoe lovers, some of the benefits can be a bit grandiose in nature. To remain objective with my coaching point of view, below are some of the benefits that are pretty consistent across the board with barefoot shoes.
1. Increase Proprioception With the Ground
Since most barefoot shoes provide you with soles that are 6mm or less, you’ll have a much better means of “feeling” the ground below the feet. This can help your body better sense the surfaces you’re working on.
Proprioception is our body’s ability to sense the world around it, provide feedback to the brain, then calculate movement patterns that are conducive to the feedback it’s receiving. Imagine stepping on a rock barefoot, your brain is going to rapidly process that sensation, then create a movement pattern to strategically move around it and keep you moving.
This is an example of the feedback loop we enter when our body is utilizing proprioception to help direct us to move efficiently and with strategy. Improved balance can also be an aspect that comes along with better proprioception. More contact with the ground means more feedback to the brain. (2)
2. Improve Foot Musculature
As mentioned above, there are 29 muscles associated with the foot and ankle. Within the foot, there are smaller intrinsic muscles that help provide our foot with its shape. The foot has three major arches including the lateral longitudinal arch, medial longitudinal arch, and anterior transverse arch. (1)
These arches are made up of muscles and multiple tissues that can be trained and strengthened through both direct and indirect work. Direct work would mean doing active foot exercises and drills and indirect work would be doing something like wearing barefoot shoes.
By simply wearing barefoot shoes, we can better train some of the smaller muscles of the foot that may be neglected when wearing thicker training, running, and normal shoes.
3. Promote Full Contact With the Ground
In a training context, barefoot shoes can also be useful for promoting how much contact the foot is making with the ground. For example, in movements like deadlifts and Romanian deadlifts, we ideally want the foot to be in full contact with the ground in what we often refer to as a tripod foot positioning.
This entails grounding and gripping the floor with the base of the heel, big toe, and pinky toe, and I also like to coach grounding the big toe as well. With a barefoot shoe’s wide toe box and minimal sole, you’ll be able to easily feel the ground under the feet and promote stability from the ground up.
How Should Barefoot Shoes Fit
Ideally, to have your barefoot shoes fit properly you’ll want to have between .3″ to .6″ of clearance in the toe box of your barefoot shoes. This is generally enough room to ensure your toes are NOY crammed at the end of the shoes, but also not too lose to where they’re sliding off.
If you have a wider foot, then I’d suggest going with the larger end of the scale, and if you have narrow or neutral foot anatomy, then air on the smaller side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q:Is wearing barefoot shoes good for you?
Q:Can you wear barefoot shoes everyday?
Q:Why are they called barefoot shoes?
Takeaway Thoughts
There are more barefoot shoes on the market than ever and they continue to innovate based on the activity they’re designed to tackle. Whether you’re looking for barefoot shoes for running or CrossFit, there’s more than likely an option out that will fit your needs best.
If you have any questions about the barefoot shoes featured in this round-up, drop a comment below or reach out to me personally via Instagram (@jake_boly).
Works Cited
1. Card, R., & Bordoni, B. (2021). Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles. Statpearls Publishing.
2. Cudejko, T., Gardiner, J., Akpan, A., & D’Août, K. (2020). Minimal footwear improves stability and physical function in middle-aged and older people compared to conventional shoes. Clinical Biomechanics, 71, 139-145.
I am a female who has had weak arches all my 71 years and developed a manageable bunion on one foot. Ten years ago I was introduced to the barefoot shoe and it change my life! My feet and body responded well while wearing them to gym and daily walking on asphalt. However within the past year walking 3 miles a day on asphalt has caused me to need more of a cushion between the shoe and the road. I bought a pair of Topo Ultra Fly 3 a couple months ago thinking this might help. But in the last month the Topo’s made my feet ached…I really wanted to love this shoes for active walking. I have the Zero HFS and Merrell Glove Trail 5 for the gym but to active walk on hard services it’s not working. Do you have any suggestions?
Hey! Thanks for sharing so much context. Check out the Xero Shoes Kelso — I just published a review on them. They have a slightly thicker sole than the HFS. I put them in the category as being a good beginner-friendly barefoot shoe because their sole is a bit thicker than other barefoot shoes and they have a removable insole so they have a bit more “cushion”, relatively speaking. I know you’re not a barefoot shoe beginner by any means, but that’s how I categorize this model due to it being a good option for helping with the acclimation process to barefoot shoes and it sounds like they may match your context really well.
They might be a good pick for you in the context of walking long distances! They’re sold out on Xero Shoes site, but you can get them on REI for $99 which is actually an error and they should be $109 — so may be worth looking into!
I just want to say thanks for putting this out there. I found this site through your YouTube channel and it’s very nice to see someone doing a good job reviewing barefoot shoes. It seems a bit more awkward for me to get a lot of these brands affordably as I’m living in Europe, but I’ll keep looking. Hopefully I can find the right casual shoe reviews on this site or your YouTube channel that’s on sale without expensive shipping!
Thank you so much for checking out the content. To your point, I’m really hopeful that as barefoot shoes continue to expand and grow in demand so will their accessibility!
Just to return to my comment above if anyone is wondering, Groundies is pretty good for a European buyer. Free shipping to most of Europe & still Black Friday deals atm if you’re reading this today!
I see numerous shoes marketed as natural foot shape and stressing they are good for wide feet. I have been wearing Altras for years now but their selection for people with wide feet has grown slimmer (pardon the expression) over the years … to the point where there are only two of their shoes that fit my feet. I have U.S. 9.5 EE with narrow heels … are any of these compatible with my feet?
Hey Neil — I feel that. I wish definitions within the shoe industry would be consistent. It’s like Inov-8 “fit” scale…their wide is not really wide, LOL. For daily wear, the Splay Freestyle could be a good option. Wildling may also deliver a width that works well for you, I have some written reviews on their shoes.
For training, I’d stick to something like the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III/Geo Racer Knit! If you want, I can send you some sizing videos via Instagram of these shoes so you can better first-person look. Just hit me on my personal or That Fit Friend page!
Hi Jake, I have had two pairs of the Xero HFS and love the width and minimal amount of cushion. However, they wear out extremely quickly, so I’m not sure buying them continually is worth it. Also, they do not have great grip, making them less than ideal for things like heavy sled pushes. What shoes would you say are the most similar to the HFS in terms of fit and cushion (with hopefully a higher quality tread)? I’m afraid that Merrell and Inov-8 will be too narrow, while Vivobarefoot will have absolutely no thickness in the sole. Thanks!
Hey Chris! I think you’d have better luck with the Merrell, but to your point, they both do run a smidge more narrow, relatively speaking. If the HFS did feel roomy for you, however, I think the Merrell would likely be fine. The Xero Speed Force may be worth exploring, too, especially if you can find them on sale anywhere.
Thanks for the article Jake! I have a short pinky toe that doesn’t like to plant, meaning I tend to pronate which leads to my knees coming inward (bad). I’ve ordered the Tolos and toe spacers to try addressing my situation. One question: what do you wear at home? Barefoot / sandals / socks? Much appreciated!
Hey Gary! Thank you for checking out the content, sincerely. I’m typically barefoot at home and rarely wear socks/sandals around the house. I’m often walking the dogs around my neighborhood barefoot, so I’m sure I get some looks from my neighbors, LOL. If you find that barefoot shoe help address your issue, then I’d slowly try to find more ways you can wear them without overdoing it/accumulating a bunch of fatigue. Barefoot around the house can be a great low-threshold way to build the feet, too!