10 Best Barefoot Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength shoes are designed specifically for people who want a true barefoot experience during high-intensity workouts like CrossFit, powerlifting, and running. They feature a zero heel-to-toe drop, which helps promote natural foot movement and stability. The sole is quite thin, with a total of about 3.5mm thickness including 2mm rubber and 1.5mm lugs, offering good ground feel while still providing reliable grip and protection, especially thanks to the added midfoot sidewalls for support. The toe box is wide, supporting natural toe splay which is important for balance and strength.

These shoes are lightweight (around 282 grams), breathable due to their mesh fabric upper, and use eco-friendly materials like recycled PET and an insole made with recycled foam. The lace-up fit allows for adjustment, and the construction aims at durability and flexibility, key for barefoot-style training. However, the thin sole might not provide enough cushioning for those new to barefoot shoes or anyone needing more shock absorption on hard surfaces. Additionally, while the shoe is designed for a wide fit, the mesh material might not offer much structure, which could affect support for some users.

For those seeking a barefoot shoe that balances natural foot movement with protection suitable for intense workouts, the Motus Strength serves as a strong option, especially for individuals who value sustainable materials in their footwear.

The Merrell Men's Vapor Glove 6 is designed to offer a barefoot shoe experience with several thoughtful features. It uses a 100% recycled breathable mesh upper, which helps keep feet cool and is eco-friendly. The toe box is designed to allow natural toe splay, a key aspect of barefoot shoes. The sole is made of rubber and features a molded nylon arch shank for some support, while remaining thin to maintain ground feel, important for flexibility and natural movement.

The shoe includes Merrell's Air Cushion in the heel, providing shock absorption and stability, which offers comfort without compromising the barefoot feel. The bellows tongue helps keep out debris, making it suitable for outdoor use. The fit is secured with laces, and the materials include leather and recycled components, balancing durability and sustainability. Some users may find the arch shank adds more structure than traditional barefoot shoes, which are usually very flexible, so this might feel somewhat firm for those seeking maximum flexibility.

This shoe is well suited for those looking for a close-to-barefoot feel combined with a bit of cushioning and support, especially for outdoor activities where debris protection and shock absorption are important.

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.