The technology and padding of the modern shoes that are made to protect your feet are nothing short of astonishing. However, protection isn’t always what you want. If you love the natural barefoot feeling when you run, chances are you’ll also love wearing the best shoes for barefoot running. These shoes will encourage you to use your natural running stride and fit securely without constricting your shoes or any part of your feet. Why don’t we run barefoot then? Well, that’s because you’ll still need a small protective barrier between your feet and the ground that might be covered in pebbles, fine glass, and other potential underfoot hazards. So, what are the best shoes for running barefoot available on the market? Let’s find out now!
Table of contents
- Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
- L-RUN Athletic Water Shoes
- New Balance Men’s Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoes
- Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes
- Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 5 Sneakers
- Vibram Men’s KSO EVO Cross Training Shoes
- Weweya Barefoot Shoes
- Oranginer Men’s Barefoot Shoes
- Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Cinch Water Shoes
- ALEADER hiitave Unisex Barefoot Shoes
- WateLves Quick-Dry Outdoor Athletic Shoes
- WHITIN Men’s Barefoot Shoes
- Vibram FiveFingers Men’s V-Trail 2.0 Trail Running Shoes
- How To Choose The Best Shoes for Barefoot Running
- Are barefoot running shoes bad for you?
- Are barefoot shoes safe?
- Can you wear barefoot shoes everyday?
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
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The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III might be one of the most expensive barefoot running shoes on the market, but everything they offer makes them worth the purchase. This brand is dedicated to making an eco-friendly product that’s also comfortable to wear, and these shoes are proof. They’re designed to get you as close to the ground as possible, allowing you to make a connection with the earth below your feet.
Available for men and women, we also love how breathable they are. The recycled PET mesh will keep your feet cool and sweat-free, while the EVA Bloom midsole will provide cushioning and reduce the stress placed upon your feet. On top of that, we’re surprised by how lightweight these shoes are! Plus, they come in several color options.
- What We Love:
- Though expensive, they’re packed by many great features that make them worth the purchase.
- Pros:
- High-end look
- Eco-friendly
- Unisex design
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Cons:
- Pricey
L-RUN Athletic Water Shoes
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Looking for the best shoes for running barefoot that you can also use for other activities without breaking your bank? Then the L-RUN Athletic Water Shoes are worth your attention. These versatile shoes are available in over 30 different colors and designs, including a drawstring closure for a snug fit around your feet.
Meanwhile, the thickened outsole provides protection from the ground and grip on slippery surfaces. We also love the heel loop that can help you slide the shoes on with ease. Even better, the exterior of these best shoes for barefoot running is made from a breathable and lightweight material to complete the barefoot feel you’re after! However, if you’re looking for waterproof shoes, you can check out the best travel shoes for winter!
- What We Love:
- An extremely cheap pair that can do it all!
- Pros:
- Affordable price tag
- Available in over 30 different colors and designs
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Thick outsole
- Cons:
- Not good for rocky surfaces
New Balance Men’s Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoes
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Those looking for the best shoes for running barefoot that weigh so little should take a look at the New Balance Men’s Minimus 10 V1 Trail Running Shoes. This solid option provides neutral support and sufficient cushioning while giving your feet all the flexibility they could need to run comfortably.
The upper exterior is a combination of mesh and synthetic material for a secure and breathable ride. Aside from that, there’s also a heel pull loop and lace-up closure to ensure your feet are snug inside. Plus, you’ll find the inside, tongue, and collar have also been cushioned to improve comfort without detracting from the barefoot feeling. If you’re a fan of New Balance, check out its travel shoes for walking on concrete and Disney World!
- What We Love:
- These shoes are an ideal pick for those who want a highly breathable pair from one of the biggest shoe brands.
- Pros:
- Breathable
- Flexible
- Well-cushioned
- Convenient lace-up system
- Supportive
- Cons:
- Not wide enough for some people
Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes
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The Vibram Five Fingers Men’s V-Alpha Shoes are the best shoes for barefoot running that don’t disappoint. They’re designed for those who want a more natural run by offering a zero-drop design, low cushioning, and that glove-like fit, all of which combine to give your feet a sensory perception.
Plus, they’re also suitable for people who want to improve their running gait, creating a more efficient stride that lowers the impact through the knees and heels. Even better, these amazing shoes are machine-washable and available in several beautiful options for you to choose from!
- What We Love:
- They’re a comfortable and functional option that’ll surprise many people.
- Pros:
- Innovative design
- Good for barefoot runners
- Extremely comfortable
- Lightweight
- Machine-washable
- Cons:
- Not the most breathable option
Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 5 Sneakers
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Apart from making the best travel shoes for Sciatica, Merrell is also loved because of its barefoot shoes. That said, those hunting for the best shoes for running barefoot will definitely like the Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 5 Sneakers. There are two main selling points of these shoes. The first is that they’re designed to deal with the rigors of trail running. These shoes will help the foot stabilize the body in conditions where there are frequent, rapid changes in movements.
Now, the second selling point is that Merrell uses only vegan materials to build these shoes. This means they’re a great choice for people who don’t want to have any animal products on their feet! Aside from that, we also fancy the grippy rubber sole that offers impressive traction.
- What We Love:
- A vegan-friendly option that performs extremely well without breaking your bank.
- Pros:
- Vegan-friendly construction
- Offer enough traction
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Well-cushioned
- Cons:
- A bit too narrow for some
Vibram Men’s KSO EVO Cross Training Shoes
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Another amazing option that’s worth your money is the Vibram Men’s KSO EVO Cross Training Shoes. These best shoes for barefoot running sport a split-toe design, which some runners swear to provide a balanced mix of comfort, protection, and flexibility. They sound like the perfect option, don’t they?
However, that’s not all! The rubber sole, which is less than 5mm thick and has zero drop, can deliver the barefoot feeling, giving you more grip on slippery surfaces than your feet alone. It also helps promote good running form while still giving enough shock absorption to feel comfortable. Even better, they’re available in brightly colored options too!
- What We Love:
- A highly popular option that has all the features you’d expect from the best shoes for barefoot running.
- Pros:
- Lightweight
- Amazing traction
- Impressive shock absorption
- Available in 7 different colors
- Flexible
- Cons:
- Run small
Weweya Barefoot Shoes
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Of course, every pair of shoes is built differently. Some have high arches, while others are wider or narrower. However, if what you want are shoes with a removable insole like the best Vionic shoes for plantar fasciitis offer, you should consider getting the Weweya Barefoot Shoes. Yep, because of this feature, you can add extra arch support when you need it.
Besides that, we also love the wide toe box that ensures most feet widths are comfortable in these shoes. Apart from being the best shoes for barefoot running, they’re also suitable for gym training, yoga, and even some ball sports. We also love the fact that there are 13 different colors to choose from!
- What We Love:
- A comfortable and versatile pair that comes with a removable insole.
- Pros:
- Removable insole
- Available in 13 different colors
- Versatile
- Wide toe box
- Grippy sole
- Cons:
- Zero stretch in the collar
Oranginer Men’s Barefoot Shoes
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Are you one of those people who are struggling with finding the best shoes for barefoot running that can accommodate their wider-than-average feet? If so, then the Oranginer Men’s Barefoot Shoes is going to be your new best friend! The wide toe box will give your feet enough space to spread out and relax, delivering everyday comfort and better balance.
On top of that, their barefoot style is designed to strengthen the accessory muscles in your feet, while the mesh upper and insoles will keep your feet dry, even in super sweaty conditions! What’s more, this pair is highly versatile. They can be used for many occasions, such as running, walking, training, and others.
- What We Love:
- An ideal pick for those born with wide feet.
- Pros:
- Wide toe box
- Highly breathable
- Versatile
- Amazing traction
- Lightweight
- Cons:
- Might not be the most durable option
Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Cinch Water Shoes
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If you love exercising near the water as much as running, then you should get the Body Glove Men’s 3T Barefoot Cinch Water Shoes! These best shoes for barefoot running are stylish and can also be used for kayaking, swimming, or any other activity in or near water. Available in 4 different styles, they offer a 3-toe design that offers a nice barefoot feel.
Apart from that, you’ll find these best shoes for running barefoot lightweight, flexible, and breathable too! Moreover, they’re made from quick-dry materials and come with an Integrated Drainage System, so you don’t have to waste your time waiting for them to dry. Best of all, they’re cheap!
- What We Love:
- They’re a nice option for those who love running and other water activities.
- Pros:
- Durable construction
- Lightweight
- Integrated Drainage System
- Cheap
- Suitable for most activities in or near water
- Cons:
- The inner lining feels a bit weird
ALEADER hiitave Unisex Barefoot Shoes
4
The ALEADER hiitave Unisex Barefoot Shoes manage to tick all the right boxes when it comes to a reliable pair of lightweight, barefoot-style running shoes. As one of the best shoes for running barefoot, they come with a 5-toe box design that gives you the near non-existent on-foot feel that you’re after.
Meanwhile, the rubber sole will provide you with the protection that you need from potential hazards underfoot. For better comfort, these shoes also include a mesh and TPU upper, which is both flexible and durable. In addition to that, you’ll find a handy hook-and-loop closure for a more secure fit around your feet.
- What We Love:
- The best shoes for barefoot running that tick all the right boxes and can be enjoyed by both men and women.
- Pros:
- Lightweight
- Handy hook-and-loop closure
- Flexible upper
- Durable rubber sole
- Unisex design
- Cons:
- They come up a little high in the back
WateLves Quick-Dry Outdoor Athletic Shoes
3
Available for both men and women, the WateLves Quick-Dry Outdoor Athletic Shoes are a must-have for every outdoor enthusiast. It doesn’t matter whether you want to walk, run, or swim, as these impressive shoes can do it all. Thousands of people have tried them on, and most of them have nothing but good things to say about these shoes.
Available in over 40 different styles, these best shoes for barefoot running are extremely affordable. But that doesn’t stop them from being awesome! For greater traction and grip, they sport an extra-durable and unique design that also includes a thick arch for better support and in-shoe comfort. Meanwhile, the elastic upper further adds to your comfort.
- What We Love:
- Arguably the most versatile option that you can get on the market.
- Pros:
- Insanely cheap
- Super versatile
- Thick arch for better support
- Highly comfortable
- Available in over 40 designs
- Quick-drying
- Cons:
- Not the most durable pair
WHITIN Men’s Barefoot Shoes
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The next best shoes for barefoot running that we’d like to show you are the WHITIN Men’s Barefoot Shoes. These amazing shoes sport an anatomical design that provides natural support and comfort to your feet. Aside from that, they also look good as they can be found in a range of colors and styles, including black, blue, green, and many more.
The minimalist construction and adaptive material make these best shoes for running barefoot feel like you’re not wearing anything on your feet. Meanwhile, the drawstring closure ensures a secure fit. There’s also zero drop between the heel and toe for a more natural stride. Best of all, the production of these shoes is completely vegan-friendly!
- What We Love:
- An overall great option that doesn’t lack any important features.
- Pros:
- Available in dozens of colors
- Offer more natural stride
- Vegan-friendly production
- Insanely lightweight
- Offer sufficient support and comfort
- Affordable
- Cons:
- The toe box is too large for some people
Vibram FiveFingers Men’s V-Trail 2.0 Trail Running Shoes
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As you can see, the Vibram FiveFingers Men’s V-Trail 2.0 Trail Running Shoes don’t look like your regular footwear from other travel shoe brands. Thanks to their toe pocket design, they offer you an almost naked feel and powerful toe-off delivered by the five toes that can flex and splay independently over the terrain.
These best shoes for barefoot running are also loved because of their outsole that boasts the super sticky MegaGrip technology. There’s a 3D Cocoon technology within the sole that’ll balance ground-feel with reduced ground pain cleverly. Since there’s no midsole, these shoes are zero-drop, meaning they’re incredibly lightweight and nimble.
- What We Love:
- One of the most popular options that’ll turn heads becasue of its design and amazing performance.
- Pros:
- Lightweight
- MegaGrip outsole
- 3D Cocoon technology
- Eye-catching design
- Machine-washable
- Available in several colors
- Cons:
- Depending on your toe shape, they can be hard to put on
How To Choose The Best Shoes for Barefoot Running
When it comes to the best shoes for barefoot running, you can expect them to incorporate the following elements!
Comfort
The best shoes for running barefoot need to allow you to comfortably feel the ground beneath you as well as allow your body to adjust to your natural running form and personal running technique. However, keep in mind that the first few times you use these shoes, you might not find them as comfortable as your feet, and your running gait needs time to adjust to the new shoes.
Breathability
Since most of the best shoes for running barefoot have basic designs, they should also be breathable. They should have excellent ventilation capabilities and ensure your feet remain cool and dry during your runs.
Flexibility
A flexible sole will let your shoes bend with your feet. This greater flexibility helps to deliver the natural, barefoot-like feel you’re shooting for.
No-drop sole
Lastly, the sole on the shoes should remain the same thickness from toes to heel. Of course, the thickness of the sole varies from brand to brand, with the thinnest options coming in at around 2mm.
Are barefoot running shoes bad for you?
No, they’re not. Barefoot runners appear to report fewer knee injuries and less heel pain compared to runners who wear regular shoes.
Are barefoot shoes safe?
Barefoot shoes are generally safe. However, you need to consider where you’re going to wear them. That’s because they offer less protection compared to other shoes, which may lead to injuries such as puncture wounds.
Can you wear barefoot shoes everyday?
Why not? Plus, it allows your feet to get used to the shoes. Not to mention, wearing barefoot shoes trains your sense of balance and coordination.
