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 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 WHITIN Men's Extra Wide Width Barefoot Sneakers are designed with comfort and natural movement in mind. They feature a wide toe box, which gives your toes plenty of room to spread out, helping with better balance and a more natural walking experience. The sole is zero-drop, meaning the heel and toe are at the same level, which supports proper posture and encourages a natural foot strike. Its flexible rubber sole is thin enough to provide a good barefoot feeling while still protecting your feet from rough surfaces. The materials are lightweight fabric on the outside with a soft inner layer for comfort, and it includes removable sockliners if you need to use custom orthotics. The lace-up design helps you get a secure fit, and the shoe is specifically made in an extra-wide size, which is great if you often find regular shoes too tight.

Like many minimalist shoes, it may take some time to get used to if you’re accustomed to traditional cushioned sneakers. Also, the fabric material might not be ideal in very wet or muddy conditions since it’s not waterproof. This shoe represents a strong option for those seeking a barefoot-style sneaker that emphasizes natural foot movement, a wide fit, and flexibility for walking or casual use.