10 Best Barefoot Shoes 2025 in the United States

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.

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 Vivobarefoot Tracker Leather hiking boot is designed with barefoot principles in mind, making it a solid choice for those who want a natural walking experience on all kinds of terrain. Its wide toe box allows your toes to spread out comfortably, which is great for balance and foot health. The sole is thin yet puncture resistant, giving you ground feel without sacrificing protection, and the All Terrain sole offers good grip in various weather conditions.

Flexibility is enhanced by removing the waterproof membrane, which boosts breathability and comfort but may reduce full waterproof protection in heavy rain. The heel-to-toe drop is minimal, supporting a more natural foot strike. The leather upper is durable and gives the boot a classic look, while the thermal insole helps keep your feet warm by regulating temperature. The lace-up fit is adjustable, and the boot is described as wide fit, accommodating different foot shapes.

Some might find the lack of a waterproof membrane a drawback in very wet environments, and the leather can require some maintenance to keep it in good shape. This boot is well-suited for hikers who prioritize ground feel, foot freedom, and lightweight protection across diverse trails and weather conditions, rather than those needing fully waterproof or heavily cushioned boots.