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Best Barefoot Shoe Brands For Hiking

Discover barefoot shoe brands for the ultimate ground connection on your hiking adventures!
Oh, the great outdoors! Nothing quite compares to that feeling of feet connecting with nature, right? But, when it comes to hiking, is it possible to have that "barefoot" experience while still protecting our soles from rough terrain? You bet it is! In this practical guide, we'll introduce you to the best barefoot shoe brands that are changing the hiking game while keeping your feet happy and free. So, let's dig in and pave the way for a more grounded adventure, shall we?
Inspiring the world to move naturally.
Inspiring the world to move naturally.
the USA

Elite runners and running store managers started Altra out of a need for a better, more comfortable running experience. What started as experimental shoe alterations in the back room of a Wasatch Mountain running store has evolved the only running shoe company to combine a FootShape™ toe box and fully cushioned Zero Drop™ platform. This innovative, award-winning combination places the foot in a natural, comfortable position throughout your run.

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Altra
Inspiring the world to move naturally.
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Sustainable foot shaped Minimal Shoes
Sustainable foot shaped Minimal Shoes
Austria

AVO sandals do not support or hinder your foot in its natural movement. The foot can do its natural work and develop into a strong and healthy foot, which is essential for our health. Because a healthy body can only follow on a stable and healthy foundation. Furthermore, AVO sandals offer maximum protection from the ground!

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Maker
Avo
Sustainable foot shaped Minimal Shoes
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Beautiful design & unique comfort are not mutually exclusive
Beautiful design & unique comfort are not mutually exclusive
Germany

Our functional shoes combine the advantages of uncompromising toe freedom with the benefits of traditional manufacturing processes and innovative materials.

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Maker
Bar Schuhe
Beautiful design & unique comfort are not mutually exclusive
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Arm your feet
Arm your feet
the USA

Belleville Boot continues to be the leading provider and innovator of combat, protective, flight and tactical military boots for the US Department of Defense (DoD) At 108 years old and over 1 million pairs of military boots sold annually, Belleville is still

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Maker
Belleville Boots
Arm your feet
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Next step footwear! Fair and sustainable minimal shoes.
Next step footwear! Fair and sustainable minimal shoes.
Germany

We are a young, sustainable start-up for healthy and fashionable minimal shoes for children and adults. At bLIFESTYLE, we're passionate about creating a sustainable, healthy, high-quality product, that makes everyone happy: You, us and our business partners.

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Maker
Blifestyle
Next step footwear! Fair and sustainable minimal shoes.
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The best shoes in the world for growing feet
The best shoes in the world for growing feet
New Zealand

For almost 30 years we’ve been making the world’s best shoes for little explorers, walking with them as they plant their feet upon the world. From the earliest adventures to world leaders in comfort and protection, find out where we started, where we are and where we're going next.

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Maker
Bobux
The best shoes in the world for growing feet
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Minimally-designed, lightweight running shoes.
Minimally-designed, lightweight running shoes.
the USA

I needed a better shoe. I found most options were uncomfortable, poorly conceived, and imported. Like you, I want neutral running shoes that I actually enjoy running in, and I want them made in the USA. So I’ve started making them myself.

Maker
Maker
Carson
Minimally-designed, lightweight running shoes.
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Anatomical toe spacers designed by sports podiatrists
Anatomical toe spacers designed by sports podiatrists
the USA

Correct many common foot and leg problems. Increase athletic performance, decrease injuries. Improve strength and flexibility of toes and feet. Enhance balance and stability.

Maker
Maker
Correct Toes
Anatomical toe spacers designed by sports podiatrists
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Sport for All, All for Sport
Sport for All, All for Sport
France

Decathlon is a family-owned company, founded in 1976, and inspired by the belief that the best sports products should be accessible to everyone.

Maker
Maker
Decathlon
Sport for All, All for Sport
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Embrace the outdoors.
Embrace the outdoors.
Canada

Embrace the outdoors. Saskatoon's outdoor adventure and alternative sports hub, featuring products and brands you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else. Fr

Retailer
Retailer
Escape Sports
Embrace the outdoors.
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Simple, Vegan-friendly barefoot shoes.
Simple, Vegan-friendly barefoot shoes.
the UK

Our shoes have ‘less shoe’ in them. Deliberately. We combine the best materials, components and design though, to make your experience the best balance we can between natural movement and fitness for the job you’re on – whether hurtling along a hill trail or practising yoga. Different shoes for different purposes but always ‘less shoe’ …

Maker
Maker
Freet
Simple, Vegan-friendly barefoot shoes.
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Barefoot Sandal meets sustainable, organic and recycled.
Barefoot Sandal meets sustainable, organic and recycled.
Austria

Maximum barefoot feeling, made from regional products. Organic leather or vegan woodleather on top of a recycled rubbersole with many options in lace colors, lacing techniques and pearls&charms. Good to your feet and your planet!

Maker
Maker
Geniale Sandale
Barefoot Sandal meets sustainable, organic and recycled.
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Use "minimalist5" to get 5% off your order
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Chainmail shoes for the great outdoors.
Chainmail shoes for the great outdoors.
Germany

We only build REAL barefoot shoes. No other barefoot protection can do what they are able to. They are all about reconnecting with nature, moving naturally without compromises and harnessing ancestral skills. Specially designed to enable natural movement and enrich sensory experience across all terrains. Using a flexible, unique sole and spacious toe box, our shoes protect and let your feet move naturally, from season to season.

Maker
Maker
Gost
Chainmail shoes for the great outdoors.
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Innovative Running, Training & Hiking Footwear
Innovative Running, Training & Hiking Footwear
the UK

Born in the UK in 2003, inov-8 manufactures specialist sports products in the all terrain running and performance training markets. Renowned for designing lightweight footwear boasting the ultimate in grip, inov-8's shoes can be found on the feet of the world's most demanding competitors and adventurous athletes.

Maker
Maker
Inov-8
Innovative Running, Training & Hiking Footwear
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Play On, Rain or Shine!
Play On, Rain or Shine!
Canada

At Jan & Jul, we believe in the power of getting little ones into nature, no matter the weather! Our high-quality clothing and footwear is thoughtfully designed in Vancouver, Canada. We are so excited to outfit your little ones for the outdoors, rain or shine!

Maker
Maker
Jan And Jul
Play On, Rain or Shine!
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Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
South Africa

Jim Green originates from a well-known fly fishing area within the rolling hills of the Midlands Meander, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Along the river edges in the area lives a sneaky little frog, known to locals as a “Jim Green”. This frog happens to be a sort after snack for awaiting fish.

The frog is not only used by questionable fisherman to hook a winning catch but is also the hero that dons each one of our boots

OUR HISTORY

Jim Green Footwear was born out of humble beginnings, in a back-yard garage in 1992, with the idea in mind of making a boot that lasts and lasts. It wasn’t long before Jim Green had gained a reputation amongst local communities, living up to its’ name of being tough, rugged, and able to go the distance, eventually becoming a household name across South Africa.

OUR FACTORY

Jim Green is not only hand crafted in South Africa, but all components are also locally sourced. With an ever-climbing unemployment rate it is important to us to support our local people and economy. Our factory is run in an ethical manner and we pride ourselves on bringing you the best value for money footwear, while at the same time living up to our name. Situated in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Jim Green boots have been made the same way since day one.

JIM GREEN TODAY

Jim Green is still one of South Africa’s favorite adventure and workwear footwear brands, being worn by large and small corporations and remains a local favorite amongst the farming and hiking communities. We have a heritage of making durable comfortable footwear that is famous for its never say die attitude and respected by many. No other boot is more versatile, from mountain tops to factory floors, Jim Green boots are ready for any challenge.

Maker
Maker
Jim Green
Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
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Functional footwear.
Functional footwear.
Germany

For almost 40 years now, we´ve passionately been engineering shoes with natural toefreedom®! Our concept can solve most of the problems, why your feet hurt. We´ve named that concept 'Functional Footwear':

Maker
Maker
Joe Nimble
Functional footwear.
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Discover More with Less
Discover More with Less
the USA

To us, it’s simple – shoes should be designed using the bare minimum. They should fit the foot’s anatomy, while allowing your feet to move like you’re wearing nothing at all.

Maker
Maker
Lems
Discover More with Less
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Shop for Boots, shoes, sandals and socks at MEC.
Shop for Boots, shoes, sandals and socks at MEC.
Canada

Shop for Boots, shoes, sandals and socks at MEC. FREE SHIPPING with $50 minimum purchase. Get inspired gear, informed advice, 100s of brands – all backed by our Rocksolid Guarantee.

Retailer
Retailer
Mountain Equipment Company
Shop for Boots, shoes, sandals and socks at MEC.
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Movement is life, life is sensory
Movement is life, life is sensory
the USA

Our insoles are the only sensory insole on the market that are thin enough to be worn in any shoe or on top of an existing arch support or orthotics. The unique texture of the Naboso Insoles can improve foot strength and balance.

Maker
Maker
Naboso
Movement is life, life is sensory
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Handmade minimalist Nall sandals.
Handmade minimalist Nall sandals.
Czechia

The shape of most ordinary shoes does not match the shape of the feet. The man numbed and reshaped his legs. The stimuli that arose from contact with the country thus disappeared. We want to go back and let our feet and body fully perceive the world. We are all original, we have a different body and foot structure and therefore our main goal is to produce individual minimalist shoes.

Maker
Maker
Nallu
Handmade minimalist Nall sandals.
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Barefoot inspired.
Barefoot inspired.
the USA

Wearing this barefoot you’ll engage your feet more, and strengthen the muscle fibers that get neglected when you’re all laced up. With stronger accessory muscles in the foot, injury rates were expected to drop and running efficiency would improve.

Maker
Maker
Oranginer
Barefoot inspired.
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Custom sandals. Handmade from a trace.
Custom sandals. Handmade from a trace.
the UK

I’m Matt Paisley. Since 1993, I’ve been a high school teacher, cross country coach, and an avid runner. Up until 10 years ago, I was running in standard shoes, and constantly endured injuries and discomfort. Then came the last straw - a herniated disc in my lower back. Heel striking in shoes became unbearable. I found relief in sandals.

Maker
Maker
Paisley Running Sandals
Custom sandals. Handmade from a trace.
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The warmest, most comfortable winter boots & moccasins
The warmest, most comfortable winter boots & moccasins
the USA

Steger Mukluks and Moccasins are manufactured in Ely, Minnesota. We proudly make the warmest and most comfortable winter boots and moccasins in the world right here in Minnesota! Thank You for coming back year after year to buy our wonderful footwear!!

Maker
Maker
Steger Mukluks
The warmest, most comfortable winter boots & moccasins
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Strong legs, strong base, that's how our legs go everywhere and in a pleasant way!!!
Strong legs, strong base, that's how our legs go everywhere and in a pleasant way!!!
Greece

Our Philosophy - What are "barefoot" Barefoot shoes

The intense and fast rhythms of everyday life and the wrong choice of shoes, are often the reason that the feet and then the knees and the waist, hurt. "Barefoot" Barefoot shoes have the unique property of allowing the natural function of the feet, without putting limits on movement. Just like walking barefoot! With a comfortable shape and space for the toes to spread (normally), with a soft and flexible sole that allows the natural movement of the foot, made of recyclable and environmentally friendly materials, Barefoot shoes are the new philosophy in shoes! Strong legs, strong base, that's how our legs go everywhere and in a pleasant way!!!

Retailer
Retailer
The Barefoot Lab
Strong legs, strong base, that's how our legs go everywhere and in a pleasant way!!!
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Affordable toe spacers to reclaim optimal toe alignment
Affordable toe spacers to reclaim optimal toe alignment
Canada

Natural, healthy human feet have toes that spread apart and don’t touch each other. – we call them “Wild Toes”. TFC Wild toes are a simple, affordable accessory that you can use to reclaim optimal toe alignment. Think of them like braces for your feet that help restore your toe alignment to its natural state.

Maker & Retailer
Maker & Retailer
The Foot Collective
Affordable toe spacers to reclaim optimal toe alignment
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Simple. Sophisticated. Radical. Convertible+Adjustable
Simple. Sophisticated. Radical. Convertible+Adjustable
the USA

Finally! Adventure Sandals Done Right. Buckle-Free Design - No Clunky Plastic or Metal. Nylon/Poly Straps - NOPE! Plush Performance Wet or Dry. Box Store Colors - NOPE! Customize Yours. Your Style. Your Adventures. Your Sandals.

Maker
Maker
Toetem Sandals
Simple. Sophisticated. Radical. Convertible+Adjustable
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5% off with code - 'Minimal-List'
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Enjoy the walk
Enjoy the walk
the USA

Here at TRUE we’re committed to crafting the highest quality shoes you’re proud to wear for any occasion - from the links to the streets.

Maker
Maker
True Linkswear
Enjoy the walk
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The ultimate in minimalist footwear.
The ultimate in minimalist footwear.
Italy

You are the technology when you engage the motion of bare feet with the ultimate training shoe from Vibram. FiveFingers shoes have highly durable, flexible Vibram soles that contour to the shape of the natural human foot while offering the protection and grip for optimal all-around performance. These minimalist shoes stay grounded while hiking, trekking, working out, bouldering, running, and indoor or outdoor adventures.

Maker
Maker
Vibram
The ultimate in minimalist footwear.
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Less shoe, more you.
Less shoe, more you.
the UK

VIVOBAREFOOT is a revolutionary, back-to-basics design based on the simple principle that being barefoot is the healthiest way for you and your feet to be. An ultra thin puncture resistant sole allows your feet to be as millions of years of evolutionary design intended - Barefoot!

Maker
Maker
Vivobarefoot
Less shoe, more you.
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Wild, untamed and confident.
Wild, untamed and confident.
Germany

Wildling wants to strengthen the connection between people and the environment. The basic requirement for this is to be aware of your ecological responsibility as a manufacturing company. Wildling makes every effort to keep minimizing its ecological footprint. The materials used are valuable resources.

Maker
Maker
Wildling Shoes
Wild, untamed and confident.
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The ultimate minimalist shoes
The ultimate minimalist shoes
the USA

Over 80,000 people in 94 countries wear Xero Shoes for walking, hiking, yoga, biking, working out, Crossfit, even running 100-mile ultramarathons through the jungles of Costa Rica. Xero Shoes let you enjoy natural, barefoot movement, with just-enough protection, an authentic style that's your very own, an affordable price (starting at just $19.95) and a 5,000 mile warranty!

Maker
Maker
Xero Shoes
The ultimate minimalist shoes
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Buyer's Guide for

Best Barefoot Shoe Brands For Hiking

Introduction

Ah, the wonders of nature! Experiencing the outdoors with our feet directly in touch with the earth is truly unparalleled. But how can we achieve this sensation on a hike without risking the well-being of our feet? Fear not, for we have the solution! This handy guide will present you with top barefoot shoe brands that are revolutionizing hiking experiences, ensuring your feet remain comfortable and unrestrained. So, without further ado, let's explore these innovative options and set the stage for a more connected outdoor adventure.

Top 5 Best Barefoot Brands For Hiking 🥇

  • Feelgrounds - Combining style and functionality, Feelgrounds offers comfortable and breathable barefoot shoes designed for the outdoors. Perfect for hikers seeking a minimalist experience and a closer connection to nature.
  • Lems Shoes - With a focus on natural foot shape, Lems Shoes provides lightweight and flexible hiking shoes that promote healthy foot movement and improve balance on uneven terrain.
  • Wildling Shoes - Sustainability meets performance in these vegan-friendly, eco-conscious barefoot hiking shoes. Wildling Shoes are designed to adapt to the natural shape of your feet, providing maximum comfort throughout your hike.
  • Xero Shoes - Xero Shoes offer top-notch minimalist hiking footwear designed for durability and a natural feel on all terrains. Check out their comparison reviews to find the perfect pair for your next adventure.
  • Vivobarefoot - With an extensive range of barefoot hiking shoes, Vivobarefoot combines cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly materials to provide reliable performance on any trail.

What To Look Out For 👀

When selecting the perfect barefoot hiking shoes, consider the following essential features:

  • Grip and traction: A good outsole with sufficient grip helps you stay stable and secure on various terrains.
  • Flexibility: Flexible shoes allow for natural foot movement and can enhance your balance and stability on uneven surfaces.
  • Breathability: Opt for breathable materials that wick moisture away from your feet and dry quickly, especially in warmer climates or during more intense hikes.
  • Protection: While barefoot shoes aim to provide a minimalist feel, it's essential to have adequate protection against sharp rocks, roots, or other obstacles.
  • Comfort: Ensure your shoes are comfortable with a snug yet non-restrictive fit, accommodating your foot's natural shape.
  • Durability: Look for quality materials and construction that will withstand the wear and tear of frequent hikes.

Final Thoughts 🤔

In conclusion, it's time to embark on a healthier, more natural hiking journey with the right pair of barefoot shoes. By exploring the brands mentioned above and considering the essential features that cater to your needs, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a more grounded hiking experience. Don't forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for more informative guides, reviews, and discounts on your favorite minimalist footwear. Finally, please share your personal barefoot hiking experiences, questions, and preferences in the comments section below. Happy hiking!

FAQ

Barefoot shoes can be a healthy choice for your feet as they allow natural movement, encourage proper foot posture, and provide sensory feedback. However, it's important to transition gradually and choose shoes that fit your foot shape and activity level to prevent injury. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Yes, there is science behind barefoot shoes. A study has shown that walking in minimalist shoes can be effective for strengthening foot muscles, which may help reduce the risk of loading-related injuries. By providing increased stimulus to the foot muscles, barefoot shoes can help promote foot health and overall strength.

Minimalist shoes and barefoot shoes are similar but not exactly the same. Both are designed to allow for natural foot movement and promote foot strength and health. However, barefoot shoes are generally more flexible and have a wider toe box, while minimalist shoes may have some level of cushioning or support.

Yes, barefoot shoes work by promoting natural foot motion, allowing the feet to move and function as they would barefoot. Studies have shown that wearing barefoot shoes can help improve foot strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as reduce the risk of injury. By enabling natural foot movement and providing adequate support, barefoot shoes can help promote overall foot health and comfort.

Yes, it can be good to wear barefoot shoes. By allowing the feet to move and function naturally, barefoot shoes can help improve foot strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as reduce the risk of certain injuries. However, it is important to transition gradually into barefoot shoes to avoid overuse injuries and allow the feet time to adjust to the new way of moving.

Wearing barefoot shoes can help promote healthy foot mechanics and muscle development, which may lead to changes in foot shape and appearance over time. However, these changes are often positive and result in stronger, more functional feet. It is important to gradually transition into barefoot shoes and choose a style that provides adequate support and protection for your individual needs.

Barefoot shoes can be a healthy choice for your feet as they allow natural movement, encourage proper foot posture, and provide sensory feedback. However, it's important to transition gradually and choose shoes that fit your foot shape and activity level to prevent injury. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Yes, there is science behind barefoot shoes. A study has shown that walking in minimalist shoes can be effective for strengthening foot muscles, which may help reduce the risk of loading-related injuries. By providing increased stimulus to the foot muscles, barefoot shoes can help promote foot health and overall strength.

Minimalist shoes and barefoot shoes are similar but not exactly the same. Both are designed to allow for natural foot movement and promote foot strength and health. However, barefoot shoes are generally more flexible and have a wider toe box, while minimalist shoes may have some level of cushioning or support.

Yes, barefoot shoes work by promoting natural foot motion, allowing the feet to move and function as they would barefoot. Studies have shown that wearing barefoot shoes can help improve foot strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as reduce the risk of injury. By enabling natural foot movement and providing adequate support, barefoot shoes can help promote overall foot health and comfort.

Yes, it can be good to wear barefoot shoes. By allowing the feet to move and function naturally, barefoot shoes can help improve foot strength, flexibility, and balance, as well as reduce the risk of certain injuries. However, it is important to transition gradually into barefoot shoes to avoid overuse injuries and allow the feet time to adjust to the new way of moving.

Wearing barefoot shoes can help promote healthy foot mechanics and muscle development, which may lead to changes in foot shape and appearance over time. However, these changes are often positive and result in stronger, more functional feet. It is important to gradually transition into barefoot shoes and choose a style that provides adequate support and protection for your individual needs.

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