The year was 2010. It was the perfect storm for the barefoot running craze for me. I was 28 years old and working at the Equinox Headquarters in New York City. Below our offices, you could literally hear and feel the flagship Equinox fitness center pumping and pounding. Working out was part of the culture at Equinox. You were free to head down to the gym and work out whenever you felt like it. I took advantage and usually got in a workout around 3 or 4 o’clock in the afternoon. I’d typically do a short 20-minute weightlifting session, followed by a 2-3 mile run on the treadmill.
Since I have always been drawn to footwear, I couldn’t help but notice the phenomenon taking place all around me in that building on 19th and Broadway. Almost everyone was wearing some sort of “barefoot” sneaker type of footwear – most of them from either Vibram Five Fingers or Nike Free shoe brands. Everyone looked so calm and cool and collected in their minimalist footwear, and I was intrigued.
I quickly got on board and purchased a pair of Nike Free Runners. People were lifting in them, doing fitness classes in them, and running in them. I started reading articles in fitness magazines and online about the benefits of barefoot shoes and which were the best barefoot shoes. Who knew I was doing it wrong all these years? I thought supportive shoes with MAX cushioning was the way to go, but instead I should be running barefoot. So, I gave it a shot with these first shoes.
The first steps I ran in my Nike Frees on the treadmill were for 2-3 miles. Not bad – no pain and decent times. I really liked the fit and feel of the Nike Free sole, and loved the way they looked as well. I continued the experiment outdoors, and a few months later ran a 5K in Prospect Park in Brooklyn and posted a PR. Maybe this barefoot thing really works!
I never took it this far, but I distinctly remember running a 10K in Jersey City and seeing a man running literally barefoot. I couldn’t help but laugh – that was just ridiculous. Barefoot in the streets of Jersey City? The man was nuts. But there was no questioning the idea and philosophy of the minimal shoes movement. Everyone was talking about this phenomenon in New York City, and the individual styles of the barefoot craze quickly spread across the country.
Table of Contents
Best Barefoot Shoes Ultimate Guide
Since 2010, there has really been a divide in running sneaker technology. You see everything now – from minimalist barefoot shoes to the traditional running shoe to athletic shoes with big bulky chunky soles. ASICS actually has an article on their website discouraging barefoot shoes. They make some fair points in the article, but for a long time plenty of people still swear by minimalist sneakers, and there are also plenty of shoe companies producing high quality barefoot shoes.
So, which camp are you in? Minimalist or maximalist cushioning? Personally, I am still a fan of barefoot shoes for certain activities. We will save the big bulky cushioning article for another day, so for now let’s focus on the best barefoot shoes and different styles for everything from training, to running, to hiking, to lifestyle.
Running
Xero HFS II ($120)
The Xero HFS II is a lightweight road runner with natural comfort and flexibility for whatever moves you. The HFS is Xero’s most popular running shoe, and the HFS II is receiving rave reviews. At just 8.3 ounces, the HFS II is super lightweight for those who don’t want any extra materials holding them down. A thin BareFoam layer provides extra protection from rocks and stones.
The HFS II also has a 5,000 mile warranty, which far exceeds most running sneakers which only last 200-500 miles. Xero shoes are known for their high quality at fair price ranges, so the HFS II is definitely worth checking out for their excellent value and durability.
Vibram KSO ($100)
This is the one that started it all. For those who were trying out minimalist shoes in the late ‘00s and early ‘10s, they were most likely wearing the Vibram KSO. Vibram has updated this classic with a thin, abrasion-resistant stretch polyamide and breathable stretchy mesh that wrap snugly around the foot.
KSO stands for “Keep Stuff Out,” so you don’t have to worry about little pebbles getting in and underneath your feet. The upper is breathable and quick-drying, so they’re great for use in and around water. The single strap hook-and-loop closure system enhances the secure fit. The non-marking XS Trek performance rubber outsole is extremely versatile with great traction on wet and dry surfaces. They’re great for everything from the gym, to running, to water activities.
Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC ($200)
The Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC is a top of the line swimrun shoe. It is designed to glide, grip, drain, and dry quickly for the athlete who is in and out of the water. The Hydra ESC features a high-vis Michelin sole for all-terrain traction. The Active Bloom Foam Insole is made using the first sustainable alternative to synthetic and petrochemical EVA foam, derived from algae biomass. Algae can damage the oceans, so by harnessing it in their footwear, Vivobarefoot is actually helping the environment. The Pro5 Puncture Resistant finish is lightweight and keeps all the sharp little pieces of rock and glass out of the shoe.
Freet Vibe ($115)
The Freet Vibe is made with a new BottleYarn recycled flyknit upper, designed for aggressive running and other activities. The Vibe is incredibly flexible, along with a roomy asymmetric toebox for the best fit with zero drop to allow for natural foot movement. The ultra-breathable smooth backer inside the upper provides a seamless fit.
The Ortholite 3mm insole is designed to provide excellent shock absorption combined with a superb ground feel. The removable insole can also be removed for an even better low-to-the-ground fit. The ConnectMax 2mm EVA midsole provides an additional super-thin layer of cushioning. The Vibe is 100% vegan and can be worn with or without socks.
Nike Free Run NN ($110)
Nike has slowed down on their Free Running line to focus more on big bulky running shoes, but they still make a model called the Free Run NN. For those who are loyal to Nike Free, this one will not disappoint.
The Free Run NN is feathery and flexible just like its predecessors, and still provides that barefoot feeling when running. The outsole features at least 13% Nike Grind material, made from scraps from the footwear making process. A soft, stretchy Flyknit upper provides a soft, sock-like comfort. The ultra-lightweight midsole provides enough cushioning while offering enough arch support to handle the constant pounding of concrete.
Cross Training
New Balance Minimus TR BOA ($150)
While New Balance is mostly focused on Fresh Foam cushioning with big thick soles for running, they still make a barefoot minimalist training shoe called the Minimus TR BOA. This shoe is great for weight lifting, HIIT workouts, and light running. With a toggle lace-lock system and no-sew overlays, the Minimus TR BOA offers a secure fit for high intensity training. The rubber wrap on the upper provides excellent grip for rope climbing, and an Aurora midsole and heel clip provide excellent lightweight minimalist cushioning.
Altra Solstice XT 2 ($130)
Altra is a brand quickly gaining popularity in the running and training community. The Solstice XT 2 is touted as the ultimate cross-trainer. Designed specifically for gym and cross-fit workouts, the Solstice XT 2 features a FootShape flexible sole that lets your feet flex and sit more comfortably. The Balanced Cushioning platform positions the heel and forefoot at an equal distance on the ground, which encourages better alignment and good posture. The caged upper provides stability and an excellent fit for aggressive workouts.
NoBull Crossfit Trainer ($139)
NoBull was founded in 2015 by two former Reebok employees – Marcus Wilson and Michael Schaffer. Their goal was to start a company that didn’t sell “bullsh*t” to their customers – hence the name, “No Bull.” NoBull thrived during the pandemic with their quality cross training footwear because so many people were stuck at home and trying to stay active.
Their Crossfit Trainer is perfect for any workout, with a low stack and supportive structure. The breathable SuperFabric one-piece upper is ultra-breathable and durable for aggressive workouts. There is also a water repellant coating and an outsole arch grip for rope climbing.
Nike Free Metcon 5 ($120)
Along with Vibram Five Fingers, Nike Free technology was another major barefoot style minimalist cushioning to take off in the late ‘00s and early ‘10s. The Free Metcon has been a reliable cross training shoe for Nike loyalists.
The Metcon 5 is the newest iteration of this silhouette, for those tough, gritty workouts at the gym where you really want to push your limits. With forefoot flexibility and heel stability, the Metcon gives you a little bit more support and extra cushion compared to some of the more minimalist barefoot options. A breathable, lightweight upper provides a sock-like feel, and a ⅞-length inner sleeve provides easy entry.
The Metcon 5 also has a wide base which is ideal for weight lifting. A softer foam core cushions the foot, while a firm outer layer is durable and stable. The Nike Free technology in the forefoot creates flexibility for agility moves like burpees, planks and sprints.
Vibram KMD Sport ($150)
With an aggressive design for the multi-sport athlete, the KMD Sport is inspired by the KSO line with some functional improvements. For the first time ever, Vibram introduced a stitch-free, seamless 2mm footbed to reduce friction. Heel and instep hook-and-loop closures help secure the stretch nylon upper to the contours of your feet – just like a second skin. The KMD Sport also features a 4mm Vibram TC1 performance rubber outsole which provides excellent grip and protection for a variety of cross training activities. Plus, like other Vibram models, you can throw them in the wash and air dry them.
Trail Running / Hiking
Merrell Vapor Glove 6 ($100)
Designed for trail running, the Merrell Vapor Glove 6 is a super lightweight shoe designed for trails with little or no debris. At an incredible 4.59 ounces, the Vapor Glove is incredibly light. The Vibram outsole provides plenty of durability while an EVA foam insole provides minimalist cushioning. The Vapor Glove 6 gives runners a true barefoot feeling out on the trails.
Xero Xcursion Fusion ($150)
Xero makes some awesome hiking boots and are a good idea for those who don’t want the heavy weight and bulk of a big chunky outsole. The Xcursion Fusion is a fully-waterproof boot that’s ready for extreme adventure. This is a sleeker and more rugged version compared to the original model.
The Xcursion Fusion features a new 10mm FeelTrue sole with a rugged dual chevron tread along with a TrailFoam layer for extra comfort and protection. A Huarache-inspired tension straps under a sleek new welded upper for a snug fit. There is also a protective toe cap, seam-sealed inner bootie, and a water-resistant membrane underneath the breathable mesh uppers. The Xcursion Fusion is also only 13.7 ounces, so it’s super light for a serious hiking boot.
Nike ACG Moc ($100)
Originally launching in the ‘90s, the Nike ACG Moc has been around for decades. The ACG Moc was originally named the “Air Ida,” thanks to its striking resemblance to the Idaho Potato. The Moc is meant for lifestyle wear, with a premium leather upper, foam midsole and drop-in footbed for plenty of comfort. The tread pattern on the outsole provides plenty of grip and protection from sticks and rocks. The bungie with toggle lock help secure your foot in place for a tight comfy fit. Just like mocassins of centuries past, the ACG Moc is durable and warm enough for winter wear when the temperature drops.
Vibram V-Trail 2.0 ($135)
The Vibram V-Trail 2.0 provides the best minimalist footwear trail running experience. The V-Trail 2.0 features lamination around the toes to prevent seam splitting, and an improved upper material that is more water repellent than the previous version. The V-Trail 2.0 also features a 3D Cocoon mesh woven into the outsole for protection from sharp objects during training like rocks, acorns and sticks. There is a 2mm EVA insole and polyester sockliner along with a Megagrip rubber outsole.
The V-Trail is easy to clean – they are machine washable and just lay them out to dry afterwards. If you’re looking for a trail shoe that is a true barefoot shoe, this is the one.
Vivobarefoot Tracker Textile FG2 ($230)
Vivobarefoot is a reliable barefoot shoe brand for outdoor, performance and lifestyle footwear. The Tracker Textile FG2 hiking boot is a top of the line hiker for those who are looking for an alternative to big, clunky boots. The Tracker Textile FG2 features a waterproof, animal-free upper and a Firm Ground sole with extra grip and durability. The Therma Insole has built-in temperature-regulating technology that absorbs, stores, and releases heat from the foot. The breathable, lightweight mesh upper is waterproof yet doesn’t trap sweat inside the shoe. They fit a bit small, so make sure to go a size up for the right size.
Lifestyle
Plae Sun ($110)
Founded in 2012 by former Puma’s Chief Designer of Footwear Ryan Ringholz and later joined by tech entrepreneur Jonathan Spier, Plae is a tech-driven lifestyle brand that sells minimalist adult and kids’ shoes. Specializing in lightweight, low-to-the-ground lifestyle sneakers, models like the Plae Sun are inspired by vintage soccer cleats. The diamond-filled soles provide multi-directional, lightweight traction while providing a moccasin-like feel. The Plae Sun is easily packable and look great with business casual workwear.
Salomon RX Moc ($110)
Salomon makes really cool and functional shoes, and the RX Moc is no exception. Salomon doesn’t really specialize in barefoot footwear, but they do make the RX Moc, which was created around the concept of reducing all forms of physical stress on the foot.
The RX Moc 3.0 is lightweight and breathable, and is a great option for an after-sports summer shoe for optimal recovery and comfort. The RX Moc has an oversized EVA midsole with high energy return that provides a soft ride for tired feet. The upper is seamless, which means there is no chafing or scratching on your feet. The stretch mesh makes the RX Moc easy to slip on and off with out socks.
Vivobarefoot Gobi III ($185)
The Vivobarefoot Gobi III is a great option for those who want to wear a barefoot style shoe to the office instead of traditional shoes. The Gobi III is a smart casual men’s desert boot that maximizes the barefoot sensation and nurtures natural foot strength. The Gobi outsole offers maximum underfoot sensory feedback. The Everyday Cork and Recycled PU insole is made from recycled PU, topped with a layer of naturally antimicrobial cork. The Pro5 Puncture Resistant finish is lightweight and flexible 0.8mm layer on the sole. Hand-crafted in Portugal, and made for the urban jungle.
Origo The Retro Sneaker ($125)
The Retro Sneaker is a modern classic inspired by vintage styles, reimagined to fit barefoot principles. Created with panels of certified natural leather and an amber sole for contrast, The Retro Sneaker also has a water-repellant upper. With a wide toe cage and zero heel drop, The Retro Sneaker feels spacious and luxurious especially if you have wide feet. The Origo sole is made from a plant-based biopolymer and thermoplastic rubber. The material both lowers carbon emissions and improves the biodegradability of the shoe.
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