The best barefoot shoes have thin soles, wide toe boxes and a zero-drop design to help your feet walk more naturally. But do they actually help your feet? Are they even all that comfortable?
To find out, I walked in 12 different pairs to find the best, wearing each on hikes, to concerts and on daily dog walks over multiple months. After all my testing, I found three pairs perfect for anyone embarking on a barefoot journey.
With a solid balance of comfort and ground feel, the Xero Shoes Prio are the best barefoot shoes for most people.
The soles are thin enough to feel the ground beneath you without being too harsh for beginners. At only $100, they’re the pair I’ll personally be reaching for.
These shoes have thicker soles than the ones on the Prio, making them better suited to beginners.
You don’t feel as much of the ground in these, but your feet will have more time to adapt to the unique features of barefoot shoes.
Best barefoot sandals
They weren’t the thinnest sandals I tested, but they have just the right thickness, and Bedrock Sandals also offers an outstanding repair policy.
It’s hard to say what the best barefoot shoes are, as someone’s first pair could be drastically different than another person’s fifth. However, the Xero Shoes Prio do a great job of bridging that gap, making them a solid set of shoes for anyone regardless of their level of experience on their barefoot journey.
All the basic features of barefoot shoes are present, including a zero-drop design — where the heel and toe are at the exact same height — wide toe boxes and minimal padding. In my testing, I found the Prio to have just the right amount of thickness in the soles. Hardcore barefoot lovers might think it’s too much, while complete novices might need some more time to get used to it, but either group could comfortably wear them and be happy.
I wore each pair of shoes in day-to-day life and walked on the same set of steps and rocks to determine ground feel. While wearing the Prio, I could easily sense the corners of steps, and the shoes would bend when I stepped on the edge of a curb. I could also feel larger rocks beneath my feet, and even tell their shape and the direction they were pointed. When I walked over small rocks, I couldn’t feel them as much as when I wore superthin barefoot sandals, which isn’t a huge downside unless you’re looking for the most barefoot option possible.
Wearing the Prio, my feet felt protected but still in touch with the ground I was walking on. That’s thanks to their 5.5-millimeter soles, which, combined with 3-millimeter insoles, provided just the right amount of thickness for most. If you prefer a little more sensitivity, the insoles can even be removed.
I think the Prio strike the perfect middle ground between comfort and ground feel; however, if you prefer thinner soles and less support, most of the sandals I tested, such as the Vivobarefoot Gobi II Premium Leather Sneakers, would likely suit you better. I’ll discuss those, as well as beginner options, later.
Although these sneakers don’t have the most ground feel, their comfort helped them claim the top spot in my tests. The Prio are incredibly lightweight at 8.7 ounces each for a men’s size 9, but they still have a decent amount of padding around the heel and on the tongue to help feet stay comfortable all day.
Like nearly all barefoot shoes, the Prio admittedly look a little goofy. A wide toe box will always change the aesthetics of a pair of shoes, but I think the Prio don’t actually look too bad, especially compared with some other options on the market. If you’re looking for a sleeker pair, consider the Xero Shoes Wynn, which were nearly my top pick but ended up falling short due to providing slightly less ground feel than the Prio pair.
The Xero Shoes Prio are not only the perfect thickness, comfort and weight but also priced right. At $100, they’re the cheapest pair of sneakers I tested, making them a screaming value. The one downside of these shoes, though, is that I found them to run a bit small. I usually wear a size 9, and my toes were touching the front of the shoes a bit too much in both pairs of Xero Shoes sneakers I tested. That being said, I would suggest sizing up a half size to ensure your toes truly feel free. Fortunately, the brand offers free exchanges to ensure you get the right-fitting pair.
The Xero Shoes Prio aren’t perfect, but they’re the best pair of barefoot shoes I tested for basically everyone. The thickness and comfort are ideal for first-time and seasoned barefoot buyers alike, and the price is right too. However, if you’re looking for a plusher, more supportive pair for your inaugural set of barefoot shoes, or if you’re seeking barefoot sandals instead, keep reading for my other favorites.
Similar to how the Xero Shoes Prio won my top spot for their winning balance of comfort and feel, the Primal Zen are the best pair for beginners, thanks to thicker soles that provide first-time wearers with just enough ground feel. Will you be able to feel every pebble and sidewalk crack while wearing the Primal Zen? No. But if this is your first pair of barefoot shoes, they’re comfortable enough to wear all day as your feet build up strength.
The Lems Shoes Primal Zen have double the stack height (i.e., sole thickness) of the Prio, at 11 millimeters compared to the Xero Shoes’ 5.5 millimeters. That thickness meant that when I wore them around, I wasn’t able to feel as many rocks or curbs. The Lems shoes are also a bit stiffer than the Prio, further reducing ground feel.
Despite all that thickness and support, I still really enjoyed walking in the Primal Zen sneakers. I felt more of the ground than when I wear normal sneakers, and the wide toe box and zero drop create a much different walking sensation than what you might be used to. Additionally, you can remove the insoles to significantly enhance ground feel as your feet become stronger.
I think beginners will enjoy the thicker soles of the Lems sneakers, which can help them gradually ease into the barefoot life and build up strength. Another feature that basically everyone will enjoy? Their comfort. The Primal Zen had some of the most padding of any sneakers I tested, creating a super-plush and cozy feel. In fact, they were the most comfortable pair of shoes in my entire testing pool, and a pair I’d reach for again and again for my daily dog walks. One note if you’re considering them? They were nearly true to size but felt just a tiny bit too small, so if you’re between sizes, I’d suggest sizing up.
If you’re into hardcore barefoot shoes, the Lems Shoes Primal Zen probably aren’t for you, as they may be too thick, too comfortable and not provide enough ground feel. However, if you’re just learning about barefoot shoes and looking to buy your first pair, these could be a fantastic option.
For a truly barefoot experience, opt for a pair of sandals. They not only tend to have the thinnest soles but also help you connect with the ground due to their lack of uppers and truly open feel. While not the thinnest pair of sandals I tested — that honor goes to the Xero Shoes D-Trail — the Cairn Evo were the best barefoot sandals I tested when taking into consideration both comfort and durability.
Ever since I got a pair of Bedrock sandals over a year ago, I’ve been hooked, but let’s get one thing out of the way first: These sandals probably aren’t for everyone. The toe thong especially can be a big turnoff for some, and while I grew to like it, it can dig into your toes, especially if you’re hiking on uneven terrain.
If you’re strongly opposed to a strap going between your toes, I recommend the Xero Shoes D-Trail or Z-Trail EV instead. The D-Trail are the thinnest sandals I tested and have the best overall ground feel, while the Z-Trail EV feature a more supportive strap system. But if you’re open to the idea of a toe strap, I think you’ll love Bedrock’s sandals.
The Cairn Evo are Bedrock’s most minimal offering, with 14-millimeter soles. While that might sound thick compared to some of the other barefoot shoes I tested, when I wore them, I was still able to feel a surprising amount of the ground beneath my feet. The soles of the Bedrocks are decently flexible, so I was able to feel the edges of the stairs and large rocks I walked over easily. They provided just a bit less ground feel than the Xero Shoes Prio, which I thought offered the perfect amount for most. The other sandals I tested were so thin that they could potentially hurt inexperienced barefoot walkers, but the Bedrocks are thick enough and easier to get used to.
Besides their Goldilocks thickness, another feature setting the Bedrocks apart from the competition is their outsoles. Made from Vibram rubber, they’re much stickier than the other sandals I tested. This might not matter a whole lot on everyday walks, but if you ever bring your sandals to the pool, the river or on a hike, you’ll appreciate the extra grip.
In addition to comfort and performance, another reason to invest in a pair of Bedrocks is their exceptional durability and longevity. I know people who have worn their Bedrocks regularly for multiple years, and they’re still in great shape. In fact, someone even hiked the entire Appalachian Trail in just two pairs of Bedrocks (although in the Cairn Evo 3D Pro, which have slightly different footbeds and stickier rubber).
I, myself, have owned and used a pair of Bedrocks for over a year, and mine still look as good as new. But for that day far in the future when your sandals do wear out, Bedrock offers the best warranty and repair program of any brand I’ve researched. Through the brand’s Re-Soul & Repair Program, you can send in any pair of Bedrocks to be repaired at a very reasonable cost.
With the perfect thickness for most and an amazing repair program, the Bedrock Cairn Evo were easily my favorite barefoot sandals. Some might dislike the toe thong, while others may prefer an even thinner option; however, I think these sandals are true winners for most.
I tested 12 pairs of barefoot shoes by wearing them for multiple days while doing daily tasks like walking my dogs, going grocery shopping and attending concerts. I also walked in each pair over the same set of rocks and steps to compare ground feel. Here are all the tests I ran to find the best barefoot shoes available.
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Barefoot feel: I walked in each pair of shoes, both on daily walks and over a set course that included steps, tree roots and rocky areas with large and small rocks, to gauge ground feel.
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Comfort: I wore the barefoot shoes for multiple days to judge their general comfort, paying attention to padding and sole thickness.
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Breathability: I examined any breathability features of each pair and noted if my feet felt hot while walking around during the summer.
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Traction: I walked on the same trail wearing each pair of shoes, paying close attention to traction.
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Style: Though aesthetics are subjective, but I ranked each pair for their style.
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Fit: I ordered each pair of shoes in my normal size and noted how they felt on my feet, noting if it was necessary to size up or down.
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Color and size availability: I counted each pair’s available sizes and colors.
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Warranty: I researched each brand’s warranty and ranked them.
To determine the features that define a pair of barefoot shoes, as well as any potential benefits, I consulted multiple podiatrists. “Barefoot shoes are minimalist footwear designed to mimic the feeling of walking barefoot while still offering protection from the ground,” Mark Mendeszoon, a multi-board-certified podiatrist at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties and the owner of Achilles Running Shop, said. “They typically have a thin, flexible sole, a wide toe box to allow natural toe splay and no elevated heel. The idea is to let your feet move, flex and feel the terrain as naturally as possible.
“Our feet have lost [the] strength of the intrinsic muscles and have developed adaptations of the extrinsic muscles. Therefore, going barefoot is a great recovery tool, especially for athletes,” Mendeszoon added. “[It strengthens] muscles, works on flexibility and improves perception. However, it is difficult to go barefoot in our environment due to hot surfaces, [objects] that can cause puncture wounds or infections, or even for hygienic reasons. This is why barefoot shoes have been a great addition to the shoes that are out there.”
While a more natural feel might sound enticing, the experts I spoke with said it’s essential to proceed slowly with your first pair of barefoot shoes, and even then they still may not be right for everyone. “The main issue with barefoot shoes is the lack of shock absorption and arch support,” Elizabeth Daughtry, a foot surgeon certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, said. “This is an individualized choice and taste for people. There are benefits, such as strengthening foot muscles and increased balance. Still, those with less foot padding may find them not cushioned enough, or those [who] need additional arch support to avoid issues such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. They are definitely not for everyone.”
“As a podiatrist, most people would assume I am 100% about supportive shoe gear, but my practice is also full of athletes that have mastered the intrinsic muscles of their foot, and their feet are very strong,” Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine, said. “My dancers, rock climbers and triathletes are the ones that I notice prefer barefoot shoes. You have to listen to your patients, and cannot approach shoe gear recommendations as a one-size-fits-all. I have also seen a lot of stress fractures from patients [who] have abruptly switched to barefoot shoes for running without training their feet.”
“Proper fit is crucial. Measure your feet, and consider sizing up if you are between sizes to allow for adequate toe splay and enough room for feet to move freely,” Daughtry said. “Materials should be breathable to promote comfort and long-term wear. The sole should be flexible for natural movement but should provide enough support and protection from the ground while allowing the foot to move freely. Lighter-weight shoes are typically more comfortable and easier to wear, depending on the material. Choose shoes designed to last or made from durable materials.”
“I think if you are just transitioning into barefoot shoes, I would first go to a low-drop, minimal shoe first, such as some of the Altra brand shoe styles,” Parthasarathy said. “Then you can go to zero drop, a wide toe box, lightweight and a flexible sole.”
I really liked the Vivobarefoot Gobi II Leather Sneakers. They looked similar to regular shoes, thanks to a simple, timeless style that could pair with basically any outfit. They also had the thinnest soles of any sneakers I tested, which meant that experienced barefoot walkers will love the minimalist feel. However, I couldn’t recommend them over my other picks due to their hefty price. They did feel high quality and worth the price tag, though, so if you want to invest in a premium pair of barefoot shoes, you’ll be happy with these.
These were a close runner-up behind the Prio. They have a different style but are similarly comfy.
If you prefer the style of these to the Prio and you’re willing to spend an extra $20, these are fantastic barefoot sneakers.
These sneakers had just a tad less ground feel than the Prio, but they have an aesthetic that may better appeal to a broader audience. The Wynn are also extremely comfortable, which makes them a good pick if you can spend the extra $20. Just like the Prio, I recommend sizing up a half size, as these felt a little small during my testing.
The thinnest shoes or sandals I tested, the D-Trail are a great choice for those seeking the most barefoot experience.
If you walk on concrete a lot, these might be too thin, and they don’t have enough traction for hiking.
I really like the D-Trail because they offer the thinnest feel of any sandals or shoes I tested. When walking around, I could feel basically everything underneath my feet, even small rocks. However, because they’re so thin, I don’t think they’re the best fit for everyone. If you’re a beginner, I’d suggest opting for a slightly thicker pair. Some experienced barefoot walkers may also want more padding, depending on where and how often they walk.
With slightly thicker soles than the D-Trail and a more robust strap system, these are a solid pair of barefoot sandals.
The Z-Trail EV are still a bit too thin for most, but they’re cheaper than Bedrocks.
If I could pick a runner-up pair of sandals, it would be the Z-Trail EV. The strap system is supportive, and their thin soles mean you can feel basically everything underneath your feet. They’re also lightweight, making them a great pair for travel or camping, but the straps can be a bit annoying to adjust. They’re a decent amount cheaper than the winning Bedrocks, but I think Bedrock’s excellent warranty and repair program make them a smarter pick overall.
These might be my personal favorite barefoot shoes, but they don’t have as much ground feel as our winners.
The thick soles of the Bedrock Sandals Mountain Clogs are a main reason why they didn’t make it into the winner’s circle. I couldn’t feel much underneath my feet, but the clogs still provide a wide toe box and zero drop, meeting the other criteria of barefoot shoes. Besides ground feel, these are one of the more expensive pairs I tested, and the style might not be as versatile outside of mountain towns (even though I wear them basically everywhere in Boulder, Colorado). They’re surprisingly good on hikes too, thanks to their Vibram outsoles, so if you’re looking for a cute, long-lasting pair of shoes and you don’t mind a lack of ground feel, you’ll likely find a lot to like with this pair.
These plush sandals offer tons of comfort, but you can’t feel the ground as well in them.
If you love Bedrock sandals but don’t need to feel the ground as much, these could be the pair for you. They have ultra-plush soles that made these the comfiest sandals in my testing pool. While slightly pricer than the standard Cairn Evo pair, you’ll still get the brand’s amazing warranty and repair program included.
These are the same sandals as our winner but with stickier outsoles.
These sandals have stickier outsoles than the ones on our winning pair, making them the best option for hikers. I wore them while testing the best hiking sandals, and they nearly claimed a top spot in that guide as well. Most barefoot walkers don’t need the top-performing Vibram rubber, so they’ll likely be happier saving money by opting for the standard Cairn Evo instead.
The Vivobarefoot Tracker Textile AT boots are fantastic if you’re looking for hiking-specific barefoot boots. Their mid-rise design supports your ankles, and a waterproof membrane helps keep feet dry while still boasting some of the thinnest, most sensitive soles I tested. I’m not sure I’d enjoy multiday hikes in these, as my feet would probably get tired, but folks with stronger feet than mine could end up loving them.
I didn’t think these boots were particularly great to hike in, as their supersoft uppers didn’t provide much support and the outsoles didn’t have great grip. I found the quick-lace system also a little annoying to use — and even more annoying to secure. The laces have a clip to keep them from flopping around, but it annoyingly came loose multiple times over the course of just one day of heavy walking.
The following FAQs have been answered by Elizabeth Daughtry, Mark Mendeszoon and Priya Parthasarathy.
“The jury is out. Some studies show barefoot shoes can help improve the stability and strengthen the intrinsic (small) muscles of the foot, but the question is, are people’s feet strong enough for them?” Parthasarathy said. “There could be a benefit for those with a neutral foot type with an arch and adequate fat pad. In my practice, I see patients benefit most from barefoot shoes when they already have good core strength and stretched-out muscles — think yogis, rock climbers, dancers and triathletes. I do not think there is a benefit [for] those [who] have reduced cushioning, flat feet or excessive pronation. This is a recipe for injury!”
“For many, barefoot shoes can help strengthen foot muscles, improve proprioception (your sense of where your feet are in space) and encourage a more natural gait,” Mendeszoon said. “However, transitioning too quickly can lead to soreness or even injury, especially if you’ve spent years in structured, cushioned shoes. People with certain foot conditions — like severe flat feet, arthritis or ongoing pain — should consult a podiatrist before making the switch.”
“This is very patient dependent, because some prefer to go without socks for better connection to the shoe and the ground unless cold weather or comfort level of the shoe prevents it,” Daughtry said. “In general, I typically recommend the use of socks to help wick away sweat and help prevent other issues, such as blisters or even the development of a foot infection, such as athlete’s foot or bacterial infection.”
“Almost all barefoot shoes are zero drop, meaning the heel and forefoot are at the same level, but there are rare exceptions,” Mendeszoon said. “A few brands offer models with a slight heel-to-toe difference — 2 to 4 millimeters — for people who want the barefoot feel but aren’t ready for a full zero-drop transition. Traditionally, a heel drop is anywhere from 8 to 12 millimeters on a regular athletic shoe. Therefore, it is very important to gradually break into a zero-drop shoe, as if you rush into it or try to run immediately, it can cause musculoskeletal problems in the lower extremity.”
For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights.
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test most of the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors with extensive testing experience, ensuring each article is carefully edited and that products are appropriately vetted. We consult with top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and discussing the pros and cons of each item.
For this article, CNN Underscored’s outdoors editor, Kai Burkhardt, spoke with multiple podiatrists to get the lowdown on barefoot shoes. He also ran standardized product tests on every single pair of barefoot shoes and sandals included in this guide, evaluating their comfort, ground feel and more.
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