10 Best Barefoot Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 is designed to closely mimic barefoot walking, making it a good choice for those wanting natural foot movement and to build foot strength. It has a wide toe box, which allows your toes to spread comfortably, supporting balance and natural posture. The sole is very thin at 2mm, offering great ground feel and flexibility, so you can really sense the surface beneath you. This thin sole also has zero heel-to-toe drop, meaning your heel and forefoot sit at the same level, which encourages a natural running or walking style.

The shoe is lightweight and flexible, great for both training and running, especially if you’re experienced with barefoot shoes or just getting started. The mesh inner and polyurethane outer material provide breathability and durability, while the rubber sole ensures good grip. The fit is described as wide, which suits people who need extra room in the front of the shoe.

One standout aspect is the sustainability: the shoe uses mostly recycled materials in the upper and cushioning, which is a plus if you care about eco-friendly products. However, it’s not yet fully recyclable due to durability needs. The cushioning insole is comfortable but minimal, staying true to barefoot principles. A possible downside is the very thin sole, which might feel less protective on rough terrain or for those new to barefoot shoes who need more cushioning. Also, the recycled materials may affect durability compared to traditional shoes. If you want a shoe that promotes natural foot movement, improves balance, and feels light and flexible, the Primus Lite 3.5 fits well in the barefoot category, especially for urban use and gym workouts.

The Vivobarefoot Motus Flex is designed to deliver a true barefoot experience, making it a solid choice for those interested in natural foot movement during activities like running, training, or calisthenics. It features a wide toe box that lets your toes spread out comfortably, which is key for balance and foot strength. The sole is very thin and flexible, allowing your feet to feel the ground and move freely, closely mimicking barefoot walking or running.

Its zero-drop design means there is no height difference between heel and toe, encouraging a natural gait and better posture. The upper is made from a single-piece knitted fabric, ensuring a snug but breathable fit, while the outsole is made from manmade rubber to provide lightweight durability. The use of recycled PU foam in the insole is a nice eco-friendly touch.

Because the sole is very thin, you get less protection from rough surfaces compared to traditional running shoes, so these might not be ideal if you often run on tough terrain. Also, while the shoe is lightweight and flexible, those new to barefoot shoes might need a transition period to get used to the minimal support. This shoe is perfect for people wanting to improve foot strength and stability with a highly flexible, zero-drop trainer, but less suited for heavy cushioning or trail use.

The UBFEN Sneakers are designed with barefoot shoe principles in mind, featuring a zero heel-to-toe drop and a wide toe box that helps your toes spread naturally, which benefits comfort and foot health. The sole thickness is minimal at about half an inch, providing a close-to-the-ground feel while still offering some protection. Their rubber sole is flexible and abrasion-resistant, offering good grip for various activities like running, hiking, and casual walking.

The shoes use a fabric and synthetic mix on the outside, which keeps them lightweight and breathable but may not be as durable in rough conditions compared to full leather options. The lace-up fit allows for adjustable snugness, although some might find the fit slightly narrow or tight if they have very wide feet, despite the wide toe box. These shoes balance style and function well, looking casual enough for daily wear while supporting natural foot movement.

If you need extra cushioning or thick soles for very hard surfaces, these minimalist shoes might feel too thin. They are ideal for those who want to transition into barefoot-style footwear for running or general use without sacrificing grip or flexibility.