7 Best Barefoot Running Shoes in 2023
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Why trust us
Made for those who want to run as naturally as possible, barefoot running shoes have little to no cushion in them, allowing for maximum ground feel. Choosing the right pair is as critical as conditioning your body and feet to the demands of barefoot running. Otherwise, you might end up injuring yourself.
And if you’re on the lookout for the best of the best among barefoot shoes, this list is made just for you. Here, you’ll find different models from different categories that we’ve tested out ourselves to make sure they are worth recommending.
How we test running shoes
Having tried hundreds of running shoes, we know which ones are bad, so-so, and those that are really good. And in this list, we’re going for the finest ones.
Without our shoe testing lab and methodical processes, we couldn’t have done it. And to truly give you a fluff-free review, we always buy our shoes with our own money. To further our scrutiny, we also do the following:
- Clock up 30-50 miles in all the barefoot shoes we test to see how sturdy they are and how they run
- Cut them into sections and measure every aspect (like ventilation, softness, flexibility, stability, etc)
To generate a CoreScore of 0-100, we collect thousands of user and expert feedback to see how each shoe ranks against others.
Best barefoot running shoes overall
Xero Shoes Zelen
91
Superb!
What makes it the best?
If there’s one word that would encapsulate the Zelen, it’s ‘natural’. From its nature-conscious construction to the natural movements its minimalism promotes, this barefoot runner from Xero Shoes allows you to stay connected to your surroundings more intuitively, while still remaining protected and performance-ready.
Pros
- Eco-friendly manufacturing
- Versatile for cross-training
- Great for speedwork
- Grips well on both wet and dry surfaces
- Intuitive ground feel
- Very airy
- Accomodates custom insoles
- Zero break-in necessary
- Good for wider feet
Cons
- Not very flexible at the midfoot
- Durability can be an issue
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$130
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$130
Running Warehouse
REI
Best barefoot running shoes with a knit upper
Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
The Vivobarefoot Geo Racer Knit is a minimalist shoe that is hard to put into just one category. Being great in a variety of situations, it’s a compelling choice for runners, gym lovers, and walkers who look for that natural feel that only an extremely flexible, light and comfortable barefoot model can give. On top of this, it’s part of the Revivo eco-friendly program, which means you can send old models back to give them a new life.
Pros
- Great all-rounder
- Excellent ground feel
- Comfy knit upper
- Feather-like
- Very breathable
- Flexible and portable
- Stable for a barefoot shoe
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Expensive
- Knit does not last long
Today's best price
Men
Women
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$165
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best barefoot running shoes for trail
Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail 2.0
81
Good!
What makes it the best?
Mixed to negative reviews were showered upon the Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail 2.0. This addition to the global roster of trail running shoes apparently didn’t have the soundest construction due to its tight width profile, a half-a-size too small sizing scheme, and an upper that scratched skin. But not all of the responses were dire; some users commended the shoe's durability, as well as its reliable traction and appealing looks.
Pros
- Durable
- Dependable tractions
- Appealing
- Protects from aggressive paths
Cons
- Upper has inadequate stretch
- Uncomfortably tight wrap
- Inner sleeves cause friction
- Heel collar causes chafing
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$135
Amazon
Free shipping
$135
Running Warehouse
REI
Best barefoot running shoes with wide toebox
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III
89
Great!
What makes it the best?
The Primus Lite III from Vivobarefoot is a barefoot running shoe that puts the feet's health in mind. Through its minimal design, it encourages runners to use and strengthen their feet more when running, allowing them to strengthen their feet and lower body. It's also a tried-and-true all-rounder that goes from the pavement to the gym floors. Whether running short miles, walking, or lifting weights, the Primus Lite III is an excellent pick.
Pros
- Natural-feeling ride
- Flexible sole
- Ultralight
- Insanely roomy toe box
- For wide feet
- Holds up well after 300 miles
- Grippy on tarmac, pavement, and gravel
- Very airy during warm days
- Can do gym training and walking
- Vegan and environmentally friendly
Cons
- Expensive
- Too harsh for beginners and heel strikers
- Laces easily come undone
Today's best price
Men
Women
Amazon
Free shipping
$150
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best vegan barefoot running shoes
Merrell Vapor Glove 4
87
Great!
What makes it the best?
Looking for a modest shoe, without fluff, that will last for miles? Then take the Merrell Vapor Glove 4. For a minimalist shoe, it gave our feet sufficient protection and loads of ground feel. And of course, it's super light, it felt like we had no shoes on! Even with its stripped-down construction, it's built to last! If we had an issue with it, it's more on its roomy fit in the heel and midfoot.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight
- Spacious fit
- Exceptional flexibility
- Very responsiveness
- Resistant, dependable upper
- Grippy and durable soles
Cons
- Too much space in heel/midfoot
- Missing a heel tab to help get it on
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$50
Zappos
Running Warehouse
REI
Best daily trainer
Xero Shoes HFS
91
Superb!
What makes it the best?
You never get a second chance at a first impression. The HFS is full of fun design cues, a sporty outsole, and a great level of versatility. While sizing is still a significant barrier to widespread fandom, Xero Shoes continues to produce a fun ride you can feel.
Pros
- Comfy upper
- Breathable
- Secure heel lockdown
- Nice grip
- Close to ground contact
- Vegan-friendly materials
- Light
Cons
- Runs small
- Not for wide feet
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$119
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$120
Road Runner Sports
Free shipping
$120
Running Warehouse
Best value
Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO
86
Great!
What makes it the best?
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO offers a combination of impressive ground feel and protection. It gives runners an enhanced running experience with impressive grip and flexibility. This minimalist shoe is best for runners who are looking for an affordable and lightweight road running partner.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Highly flexible
- Solid traction and stability
- Quick lacing system
- Affordable shoe
Cons
- Too thin and not durable
- Toes are too tight
- Fabric wears off quickly
Today's best price
Men
Women
Any color
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$75
Moosejaw
Free shipping
$105
Summit Hut
Free shipping
$105
Zappos
Free shipping & returns
$110
Comparison of the 7 best barefoot running shoes
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