The 9 Best Barefoot Shoes In 2024, Expert-Reviewed and Tested (2024)

Expert Reviewed By: Austin Current, CSCS, CISSN, Author and Strength Coach

Barefoot shoes come with a fairly wide range of benefits depending on the context in which you plan to use them. More than ever in 2024, there are a lot of barefoot shoes on the market and it can be overwhelming to find the best barefoot shoes for your needs.

After countless tests and barefoot shoe reviews, I’ve built this list to reflect my top picks in a variety of performance categories. For example and like many, I wear barefoot shoes for daily wear, working out, and running.

Whether you’re new to barefoot shoes or you’re looking for a new pair for working out or commuting, this list should provide you with a nice range of barefoot shoe options.

When looking into your next pair of barefoot shoes I’d suggest trying to figure out exactly how you plan to use your shoes and create a list of your activities. For example, do you need a barefoot shoe for a little bit of everything? Just working out? Walking?

My Top Barefoot Shoe Picks

• Best Barefoot Shoes for Lifting: Tolos Archetype 2.0
• Best Barefoot Shoes for CrossFit: Vivobarefoot Motus Strength
• Best Barefoot Shoes for Running: Xero Shoes Zelen
• Best Barefoot Shoes for Women: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit
• Best Barefoot Shoes for Men: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
• Greats Beginner-Friendly Option: Xero Shoes Prio
• Best for Walking and Daily Wear: Icarus Ascent Gen 2
• Best for Trail Running and Hiking: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG
• Favorite Cheap Option: WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers

Coach Jake’s Barefoot Shoe Buying Tips

Buying Tip 1 — Acclimate to Barefoot Shoes Slowly

If you’re new to barefoot shoes, then you’ll want to acclimate to this style of footwear. I’d suggest starting to wear your barefoot shoes for low-threshold activities like walking then build up to things like running and working out.

This style of footwear will feel very different compared to traditional shoes and you must listen to your body when acclimating. Think of it like progressing when getting into things like working out and running.

Buying Tip 2 — Every Shoe Has Been Hand-Tested, Ask Questions

• I’ve bought and hand-tested every barefoot shoe featured in this list. That Fit Friend is a small business run solely by me (Jake Boly) and I approach my barefoot shoe reviews with a consumer-first mindset.
• Every shoe receives similar tests depending on its performance category. This allows me to recognize the nuance that exists between a shoe’s durability and performance.
• I have individual written and video reviews for every barefoot shoe featured below. Check those out for more depth and reach out if you have additional questions.

Context: When looking for barefoot shoes for lifting, I’m considering two things. First, I want to get as close to the ground as possible when training heavily. Second, I want the toe box to have ample room for toe splay so I can truly grip the floor and equipment with ease.

Top Pick: Tolos Archetype 2.0

• Pros: Well-rounded performance in the gym and daily wear, good-looking appearance, fair price point
• Cons: Not great for high-volume feet, toe break can feel odd for smaller sizes
• 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 2.0 Review
  

Why I Chose the Archetype 2.0 for Lifting

The Tolos Archetype 2.0 is my top pick for being a well-rounded barefoot shoe for lifting. To be honest, I regularly rotate between my Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III and Tolos Archetype 2.0 (and 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 2.0 grips the floor well.

I also like how well the Tolos Archetype 2.0 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.

I think the only drawback that some lifters may have with the Tolos Archetype 2.0 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.

Don’t Buy the Tolos Archetype 2.0 If…

• You have thicker feet. The Tolos Archetype 2.0 (along with the 1.0) can be a little tough to navigate and get on for thicker feet. If you have noticeably high-volume feet then you’ll want to consider this.
• You need a ton of breathability. The Archetype 2.0’s upper isn’t the most breathable in the game and if you need a ton of ventilation then you’ll want to explore the Primus Lite III below.
• What to Buy Instead:Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

Context: Until recently, there hasn’t been a ton of barefoot shoes designed for CrossFit. Barefoot shoes for CrossFit need two characteristics, a durable upper construction and outsoles that provide grip for multi-directional activity. Durability is key here.

Top Pick: Vivobarefoot Motus Strength

• Pros: Strong well-rounded performance for CrossFit, grippy outsole, durable upper construction
• Cons: Upper lacks breathability, high price point
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Weight: 9.2 oz
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• Read My Review: Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Review
  

My Rationale for Choosing the Motus Strength Here

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength performs exceptionally well for CrossFit and it’s been one of my favorite models for WODs to date. Compared to other barefoot shoes, the Motus Strength has a little more structure with its upper and outsole.

For example, TPU overlays cover the toe box protecting this shoe from exercises like burpees. Plus, the sole wraps over the medial and lateral midfoot which is great for durability and rope climbing support.

Compared to other Vivobarefoot shoes designed for lifting like the Primus Lite III, the Motus Strength also has more aggressive lugs which is great for things like heavy deadlifts, catching cleans, and gripping turf, rubber gym floors, and wooden platforms.

Outside of CrossFit, the Motus Strength also performs exceptionally well so if you’re on the fence about this shoe’s price I think you’ll get a wide range of versatility with this model which can make it more worth it.

Don’t Buy the Vivobarefoot Motus Strength If…

• You’re working with a budget. The Motus Strength’s price point is high and if you don’t want to front that much money for your shoes then there are options that cost less like 360 below.
• You need more breathability. This shoe’s heavier and more rigid upper isn’t the most breathable so if your feet run hot and you train in hot CrossFit boxes then you may find this shoe to be a miss.
• What to Buy Instead:Xero Shoes 360

Context: Since barefoot shoes have thin soles you want to find pairs that have enough tread for traction and long-term scuff support. Note, I am by no means someone who is running marathons in barefoot shoes, I use mine for short to mid-range runs (1-5 miles).

Top Pick: Xero Shoes Zelen

• Pros: Strong shoe for hybrid runners and athletes, breathable upper construction, highly flexible sole
• Cons: Not the best for exceptionally wide feet, the tread can be slippery on wet concrete
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Weight: 8 oz
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• Read My Review: Xero Shoes Zelen Review
  

Why I Chose the Zelen for Running

My favorite barefoot shoe for running is the Xero Shoes Zelen for a couple of reasons. 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.

Don’t Buy the Xero Shoes Zelen If…

• You have an exceptionally wide foot. The Zelen will be best served for feet that are around a EE-width and narrower. If you’re far past that width then you may want to explore options like the Geo Racer Knit.
• You want a little more cushion. If you want a bit more cushion for barefoot running then you may want to explore the Xero Shoes HFS 2 as it has a slightly thicker sole construction.
• What to Buy Instead: Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit

Context: When it comes to 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.

Top Pick: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit

• Pros: Good well-rounded performance in the gym, great for casual wear, clean and good-looking shoe
• Cons: Knit upper can lack for lateral exercises, not the warmest shoe for winter 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
  

Why the Primus Lite Knit Earned This Spot

The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit is an awesome barefoot shoe pick 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 well.

Don’t Buy the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Knit If…

• You want to save money. If you’re on a budget, then you can find really great options for around $100 or less. For example, the WHITIN models cost around $60 and Split and Xero Shoes range from $70-$100 (generally).
• You want a shoe for business casual settings. If you need a shoe that’s a little more dressy then you may want to explore Feelgrounds, Tolos, or Icarus as they have a lot business casual models for decent prices.
• What to Buy Instead: Tolos Archetype 2.0

Context: When considering 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 shoes are plenty wide for their anatomical needs.

Top Pick: Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III

• Pros: Great option for lifting and daily wear, good-looking and simple upper, highly flexible Active Sole
• Cons: Outsole tread can fade fast with high-volume concrete use, high price point
• 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
  

My Rationale for Choosing the Primus Lite III

For guys, my top pick is the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III for 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 daily, 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 concerning 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 regarding 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.

Don’t Buy the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III If…

• You need a shoe for business casual settings. If you’re a guy needing a barefoot shoe to wear to work, I’d suggest instead going with the Icarus Ascent Gen 2 below.
• You’re brand new to barefoot shoes. If you’re newer to barefoot shoes and you want a model with a bit more cushion for lifting, cross-training, and running then I’d suggest exploring the Xero Shoes HFS 2.
• What to Buy Instead: Icarus Ascent Gen 2

Context: When discussing barefoot shoes for beginners, I’m constantly wondering, “What is the best barefoot shoe for someone’s first pair?” Below are two awesome models due to their budget and overall functionality.

Top Pick: Xero Shoes Prio

• Pros: Good entry-level barefoot shoes, decent price point for its versatility, removable insole is great for comfort
• Cons: Upper can look dated and clunky, long-term durability can be highly variable
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Weight: 8.85 oz
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• Read My Review: Xero Shoes Prio Review
  

My Rationale for the Xero Shoes Prio for Beginners

It’s tough to fault the Xero Shoes Prio as the first shoe for a barefoot shoe beginner. This model’s price point of $89.99 is fair and it’s a good model for tackling a little bit of everything.

You can lift in these shoes, wear them daily, 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.

Don’t Buy the Xero Shoes Prio If…

• You have an exceptionally wide foot. If your feet are wider than a EE-width, then you may be more comfortable opting for the WHITIN model linked below.
• You want a better-looking barefoot shoe. I like the Prio, but it’s not the most aesthetic shoe on the market. If you agree, I’d look into shoes like the Tolos Archetype 2.0 and Primus Lite Knit.
• What to Buy Instead:WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers

Context: When it comes to testing 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 and wearing out and about that look casual.

Top Pick: Icarus Ascent Gen 2

• Pros: Strong performance for walking and casual wear, good beginner-friendly construction, 3 different insoles
• Cons: Upper lacks breathability, upper volume can lack for super thick feet
• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm
• Weight: 12.2 oz (for my size 10 model)
• Removable Insole: Yes
• Sizing: True to Size
• Read My Review: Icarus Ascent Gen 2 Review
  

Why I Chose the Icarus Ascent Gen 2 Here

The Icarus Ascent Gen 2 is my top pick for walking for a few reasons. First, it’s a good option for walking in a wide range of contexts. For example, I like wearing and walking in the Ascent Gen 2 for travel, running errands, and working.

This shoe has been one of my go-to barefoot shoes for contexts where I want to dress up a little more. Whether I’m going to a coffee meeting or going into a WeWork and want to dress up a little more I like the Ascent Gen 2.

Second, this shoe can be a great option for a wide range of users because of its different insoles. This shoe comes with three different insoles that all vary in thickness and cushion. It gives this shoe a nice edge for comfort in different walking settings.

Third and lastly, this shoe’s herringbone tread pattern does a good job with durability and grip. Nothing is worse than commuting with barefoot shoes and sliding around on subway platforms or damp streets.

Don’t Buy the Icarus Ascent Gen 2 If…

• You want more breathability. The heavier leather in the Gen 2 is great for colder climates, but it can run hot in the summer. For breathability and fashion, explore the Primus Asana linked below.
• You want a super minimalist shoe. If you want to get as close to the ground as possible, then you may want to explore options like the Inov-8 Bare-XF 210 V3 or Tolos Archetype 2.0.
• What to Buy Instead:Vivobarefoot Primus Asana

Context: 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. Second, I assess upper durability. Third, I assess comfort and foot protection.

Top Pick: Vivobarefoot Primus Trail Knit FG

• Pros: Great for training, trail running, and hiking, good outsole tread, strong overall durability
• Cons: High price point, not the best for high-volume feet
• 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
  

Why I Chose the Primus Trail Knit FG Here

The Vivobafrefoot Primus Trail Knit FG is my top pick for hiking and trail runs for a few reasons. And on that note, 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 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 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.

Don’t Buy the Primus Trail Knit FG If…

• You want to save money. The Trail Knit FG has a pretty high price point and if you want to spend around $100 for shoes then I’d explore the Vapor Glove 6 or Xero Shoes Mesa Trail.
• You like traditional laces. The lacing system on the Trail Knit FG is for sure an acquired taste and if you’re prefer a traditional lacing setup then the Mesa Trail and Vapor Glove will be solid.
• What to Buy Instead:Merrell Vapor Glove 6

Context: Barefoot shoes can vary pretty greatly in price, and not everyone wants to drop $100 plus on a pair of barefoot shoes, especially if you want them for more casual use or for experimenting with.

Top Pick: WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers

• Pros: Surprisingly well-rouned performance, awesome price point, great for wide feet
• Cons: Not great for serious training, durability can sometimes be variable
• 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
  

My Rationale for Choosing the WHITIN Barefoot Shoes

The WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers are taking my top pick by a comfortable margin. 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 but are often on sale and I bought my pair for $41.99.

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 who 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.

Don’t Buy the WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers If…

• You have a narrow foot. The WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers are built to be exceptionally wide and if you have a narrow foot you may find yourself swimming around in this model.
• You want something with a little more tech. In the context of construction, the WHITIN Barefoot Sneakers are pretty barebones. You might be better served in the Xero Shoes Prio if you want a slightly higher quality shoe.
• What to Buy Instead:Xero Shoes Prio

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.

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.

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 loose 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.

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.