If you’re looking for the best barefoot shoes for men, we’ve curated the ultimate guide to meet all your needs. At Barefoot Backpackers, we have tried and tested many brands over the years, from hiking boots to office shoes, and have curated a list of our favourite barefoot footwear. Barefoot footwear continues to evolve, with shoes now seamlessly blending into your everyday wear. So whether you are looking for a trail running shoe, an office shoe to sandal, we have got you sorted.
So first of all, what sets barefoot shoes apart is their focus on function. They let your toes spread, keep your posture more aligned, and strengthen muscles that traditional shoes often ignore. Many models are built from breathable, durable materials that feel comfortable while staying grounded in practical design.
In this guide, we explore barefoot shoes across a range of real-world uses, so you can find the right fit every season and activity. We cover lightweight everyday sneakers, hiking shoes, winter-ready snow boots, trail running shoes, smart leather barefoot options for work or events, relaxed casual sneakers, and barefoot sandals for warmer climates.
We’ve selected shoes here based on brands we know and trust. Each one supports natural foot mechanics, encourages a more responsive stride, and helps you feel connected to the surface beneath your feet. These picks are practical, simple, and made to last while keeping your feet healthy and mobile. If you are looking for the best barefoot shoes for women, we have a guide of that too. So, let’s get into it.
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The Best Barefoot Shoes for Men at a Glance:
- Best Overall Barefoot Shoe: VivoBarefoot Primus Lite
- Best Knit Barefoot Shoe: VivoBarefoot Primus Lite Knit
- Best for Hiking: VIVOBAREFOOT Tracker Forest ESC Mens
- Best Boots for Snow and Winter: Xero Shoes Men’s Alpine Barefoot Snow Boots
- Best for Trail Running: Merrell Vapor Glove 5
- Best Smart Shoe: Xero Shoes Glenn Dress Casual Leather Shoes
- Best Casual Shoe: WHITIN Men’s Wide Minimalist Barefoot Sneakers
- Best Barefoot Sandal:Â Earth Runners Circadian
Best Barefoot Running Shoes for Men
Vivo Barefoot’s bestseller – the minimalist classic, the Primus Lite is ideal for those who want to reconnect with the ground beneath their feet, but want a shoe that blends in with the rest of their wardrobe. It’s incredibly lightweight and flexible, offering excellent breathability with its mesh upper and TPU overlays made from recycled materials. The wide toe box and zero-drop sole make it a go-to for natural foot movement, while the hexagonal tread pattern provides reliable traction on a variety of surfaces. Whether you’re training, walking, or running errands, it keeps you close to the earth with a high level of ground feel.
Key Specs
Weight approximately 16.8 oz per pair (US size 10)
Stack height 7mm (4mm base + 3mm removable Ortholite insole)
Drop 0mm
Outsole 2mm synthetic rubber with hexagonal tread
Upper material recycled polyester mesh and TPU overlays
Fit wide toe box for natural toe splay
Ground feel: high
Combining breathability with sustainable performance, the Primus Lite Knit features a soft, sock-like upper made from recycled knit fabric that hugs your foot without restricting it. The zero-drop design, wide toe box, and removable Ortholite insole work together to promote natural movement and excellent proprioception. It’s great for casual wear, training, or travel – wherever light, flexible footwear is key.
Key Specs
Upper material breathable knit made with recycled polyester and spandex
Outsole 2mm Primus outsole
Insole removable Active Ortholite Performance insole (98% recycled PU foam)
Puncture resistance 0.8mm Pro5 layer
Fit wide toe box
Drop 0mm
Weight approximately 246g per shoe
The Primus Trail III All Weather is a stripped-back barefoot shoe built for speed and agility. Designed with a Firm Ground sole, it balances grip and ground feel on hardpack terrain, making it perfect for fast hikes, trail runs, and even rainy urban adventures. A quick-lace system allows for easy adjustments, while the lightweight build (315g per shoe, EU 42) ensures it won’t slow you down.
Made from recycled, vegan-friendly materials, the Primus Trail III AW is water-resistant yet breathable, ideal for cooler, wetter climates. It’s an all-rounder for those who want a flexible and responsive shoe that still holds up in challenging conditions.
Key specs
Weight 315g (men’s EU 42)
Sole Firm Ground outsole
Upper Water-resistant recycled synthetic materials
Lacing Quick-lace system
Best Barefoot Hiking Shoes for Men
Designed with input from survival experts, the Tracker Forest ESC is built to perform in wild, off-trail environments. Its Michelin® outsole offers deep, multi-directional lugs for traction in muddy or rugged conditions, while the wild hide leather upper ensures breathability and water resistance. We love the robust, rugged look of this boot. Plus, with a zero-drop platform, flexible fit, and puncture-resistant layer, this shoe is both protective and prima. It is ideal for serious trail adventurers who are looking for a shoe built for them in mind.
Key Specs
Outsole Michelin® ESC with 2.5mm base and 7mm lugs
Upper material wild hide leather with synthetic rubber overlays
Lining 100% RPET
Insole removable Ortholite insole (98% recycled PU foam)
Water resistant
Weight 525g per shoe
Fit wide toe box, zero drop
Additional features textured RPET laces, non-marking outsole
This barefoot shoe looks like a typical shoe of this kind. It is a rugged trail companion, and the Xcursion Fusion delivers waterproof protection without sacrificing barefoot feel. Its flexible outsole grips well in wet or uneven terrain, while the sealed seams and waterproof membrane keep feet dry in unpredictable weather. With a wide toe box, zero-drop design, and extra protection in high-wear areas, it’s ready for any wet and wild adventure.
Key Specs
Outsole 10mm FeelTrue® rubber with 3.5mm dual-chevron lugs
Upper material synthetic and textile with waterproof membrane
Insole 2mm removable insole
Drop 0mm
Weight approximately 272g per shoe
Wide toe box
Additional features reinforced toe cap, reflective heel and instep straps
The Mesa Trail II is a versatile barefoot shoe designed for both trail running and hiking. It features a zero-drop platform, wide toe box, and flexible sole to encourage natural foot splay and posture. The breathable mesh upper and welded overlays provide support while keeping the shoe lightweight.
Backed by Xero’s 5,000-mile sole guarantee, the Mesa Trail II is built to last. Dual chevron lugs deliver excellent traction on dirt paths and rocky trails, making this one of the best hybrids for runners who also hike.
Key specs
Weight 7.6 oz (men’s 9)
Sole FeelTrue® rubber with dual chevron lugs
Upper Breathable mesh with welded overlays
Drop Zero-drop sole
Barefoot Boots for Men
The Xero Alpine Barefoot Snow Boots prove you don’t need bulky footwear to stay warm. These fully waterproof boots are lined with thick fleece insulation that traps heat while allowing your feet to breathe. The flexible zero-drop sole encourages natural motion and balance even on icy paths, and the durable rubber outsole offers reliable traction in deep snow or slush.
Despite their robust construction, the Alpines remain surprisingly lightweight, making them perfect for long winter walks, snowshoeing, or aprés-ski strolls. Their wide toe box allows your toes to splay naturally, improving circulation and warmth. For cold-weather adventurers who still want that barefoot freedom, these boots strike the ideal balance of warmth, grip, and flexibility.
Key specs
Upper Waterproof synthetic material
Lining Insulated polyester fleece
Outsole Rubber with deep traction lugs
Design Zero-drop sole, natural foot shape
Best for Winter hiking and snow conditions
The Ridgeway Chelsea Boot merges rugged durability with everyday style. Featuring full-grain leather and elastic side panels for easy wear, it’s a low-profile boot that slips on effortlessly while maintaining a secure fit. The zero-drop sole encourages natural alignment, and the flexible outsole moves with your foot rather than against it.
Its blend of comfort, versatility, and minimalist structure makes it a go-to choice for those who want a smart boot that still supports barefoot principles. From morning commutes to weekend getaways, it’s as stylish as it is functional.
Key specs
Upper Full-grain leather
Outsole EVA and rubber with dual chevron traction
Fit Wide toe box with elastic gore entry
Weight Lightweight flexible design
Best Trail Running Barefoot Shoes for Men
Engineered for speed and natural motion, the Merrell Vapor Glove 5 is a true barefoot running shoe with a barely-there feel. It features a Vibram® outsole for superior grip, a breathable mesh upper for ventilation, and a snug, sock-like fit that encourages natural movement. Ideal for road or gym use, this shoe is built for those who prioritise flexibility and ground feedback.
Key Specs
Outsole Vibram® EcoStep with 30% recycled rubber
Upper material mesh and TPU
Lining 40% recycled breathable mesh
Insole EVA foam with 100% recycled top sheet
Stack height 6.5mm (heel and toe)
Lug depth 2mm
Fit Merrell Barefoot 2 anatomical shape
The Vibram FiveFingers V-Alpha offers a strong balance between flexibility and grip. Built with a 3.7 mm Vibram Megagrip outsole, it handles both wet and dry terrain with confidence while keeping your steps light and agile.
Material: 50/50 wool and synthetic upper
Sole: 3.7 mm Vibram Megagrip rubber
Insole: 2 mm foam for light protection
Weight: 136 g (4.8 oz)
Best for: Trail running, hiking, gym training
These shoes keep the focus on natural motion, offering excellent breathability and odor resistance. They’re ideal for those who want durable performance with a barely-there feel.
Casual Barefoot Shoes for Men
This minimalist sneaker offers a soft fabric upper and a flexible rubber sole that supports free and natural movement. The wide toe box allows comfortable toe splay and the zero drop platform helps maintain natural posture throughout the day. The optional removable insole adds versatility for those who prefer more or less ground contact.
Key Specs
Fabric upper
Rubber outsole
Zero drop base
Removable sockliner
Wide toe box
Flexible abrasion resistant sole
This canvas based minimalist sneaker offers a simple and flexible feel that works well for everyday wear. The wide toe box supports natural positioning of the toes and the thin rubber sole creates a clear sense of ground contact. Its lightweight build keeps the shoe comfortable and easy without adding bulk which makes it suitable for steady all day use.
Key Specs
Canvas upper
Zero drop sole
Removable sockliner for increased ground feel
Thin flexible rubber outsole
Fit wide toe box
Weight lightweight construction
Best Barefoot Dress Shoes for Men
If you’re after a shoe that looks sharp in the boardroom and feels incredible on your feet, the Vivobarefoot Gobi IV is the ultimate barefoot shoes dress shoes choice. Crafted from ethically sourced Wild Hide leather, this minimalist desert boot is soft, breathable, and flexible — perfect for everyday wear.
The thin 4mm sole keeps you connected to the ground, while the cork insole adds comfort and odor resistance. Whether you’re pairing them with jeans or tailored trousers, they bring barefoot freedom to your daily routine without compromising sophistication.
Key specs
Material Wild Hide leather upper and lining
Sole 4mm Gobi outsole for traction and flexibility
Insole Cork and recycled PU insole
Fit Wide toe box with zero drop
Best for Smart-casual and office wear
If you’re looking for a minimalist shoe that works in the office or out to dinner, the Xero Glenn hits the mark. It blends classic Oxford style with a barefoot-friendly sole, soft leather interior, and roomy toe box. Water-resistant and zero-drop, it’s built for those who want natural movement without compromising on sophistication.
Key Specs
Upper material water-resistant Nubuck leather
Lining material soft leather
Outsole 5mm zero-drop FeelTrue® cup sole
Insole 2.5mm removable
Stack height 8mm
Fit wider toe box, suits average to wide feet and dominant big toes
Closure lace-up
Weight approximately 278g per shoe Style classic Oxford design
This Xero model has a classic design that meets natural comfort. The Xero Shoes Glenn is a refined Oxford-style shoe crafted from full-grain LWG-certified leather. Also, this barefoot dress shoes provides structure without stiffness, offering flexibility and a naturally flat sole.
With a breathable lining, durable sole, and 5,000-mile warranty, the Glenn is built for longevity. It’s a polished barefoot option for those who move seamlessly between work, travel, and social occasions.
Key specs
Material Full-grain leather upper
Sole Dual chevron tread with 5,000-mile warranty
Design Zero drop and wide toe box
Fit True to size
Best for Office attire, dinners, and travel
The Best Barefoot Sandals for Men
For when you really want to get your toes out, the Xero Shoes Men’s Genesis Sandal is designed for those who prefer a minimalist, barefoot-style experience, combined with the security of a strapped sandal. These sandals are extremely lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for travel, everyday wear, and light activities. The open design promotes airflow, keeping your feet cool, while the adjustable straps ensure a comfortable and secure fit. They are designed to allow your feet to move naturally, promoting a more connected feel to the ground. Plus they weigh and pack down to next to nothing, making them a great piece of footwear for trips.
Key Specs:
Very lightweight, typically only a few ounces per sandal (4.6 ounces)
5.5mm FeelTrue® rubber sole provides protection and ground feedback.
Zero-Drop
Wide Toe Box:
Adjustable Straps
Earth Runners’ best-selling adventure sandal, the Circadian, is designed for those who want the freedom of barefoot movement with the durability to take on any terrain. Built with a 9mm Vibram® Gumlite sole, it strikes the perfect balance between comfort, protection, and ground feel. Lightweight and versatile, it delivers reliable wet grip and a natural connection to the earth, making it equally at home on the trail, by the water, or in everyday wear.
What sets the Earth Runners apart is its grounding technology. The sandals feature conductive laces with stainless-steel thread and a copper plug that links your body directly to the earth, helping replicate the benefits of walking barefoot. The moisture-wicking Earth Grip footbed, made from GOTS-certified canvas, keeps feet cool and comfortable, while the fully adjustable lace system ensures a secure, personalized fit. For adventure seekers who value both performance and connection, the Circadian is a true barefoot classic.
Key Specs
Weight approximately 5.9 oz per sandal (men’s 9 / women’s 11)
Stack height 9mm (7.5mm Vibram® outsole + 1.5mm footbed)
Drop 0mm
Outsole Vibram® Gumlite, domestically sourced, all-terrain grip
Footbed Earth Grip moisture-wicking organic canvas (GOTS-certified)
Laces Conductive lacesâ„¢ with stainless steel thread and copper plug
Fit fully adjustable thong, heel, and ankle straps
Ground feel moderate
Why Choose Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes are all about keeping your feet active and flexible while giving you the protection you need. The wide toe boxes and zero-drop soles allow your feet to move naturally, which helps with balance, posture, and foot strength over time. They’re not just for walking in nature – they work for everyday life too.
Materials are often chosen for breathability, comfort, and durability. Lightweight shoes pack easily for those who travel. Many are also very functional and have high performance, whether in rain, mud, or light snow. Choosing a pair that fits well and feels right can make your steps more fluid and grounded without you having to think about it.
Benefits of Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes encourage a more natural gait, strengthening foot muscles and improving posture. They also provide a deeper connection to the ground beneath you, promoting balance and stability. Additionally, their minimalist design reduces material waste, making them a more sustainable footwear choice. If you want to go in depth about the subject, be sure to check out our guide: are barefoot shoes good for your feet.
How to Choose the Best Barefoot Shoe
Think about what you’ll use them for first. Casual shoes, hiking boots, or running shoes all have slightly different needs. Look for wide toe boxes, flexible soles, and materials that let your foot breathe. If you’re new to barefoot shoes, start slow to let your muscles adapt and build strength over time.
Material and Durability
Most barefoot shoes use breathable mesh, leather, or lightweight synthetics. Durability matters as a single well-made pair can last years and keep you comfortable in different conditions.
Fit, Comfort, and Foot Health
Wide toe boxes, zero-drop soles, and minimal cushioning support natural alignment. This can improve posture, reduce foot fatigue, and strengthen muscles that usually go unused in conventional shoes. Comfort comes from letting your foot move naturally, not from padding.
FAQ: Barefoot Shoes
Do You Wear Socks with Barefoot Shoes?
Yes, you can wear socks with barefoot shoes if you prefer. Many brands offer special socks designed for a minimalist fit to maintain the natural feel of the shoes.
How to Walk in Barefoot Shoes?
When transitioning to barefoot shoes, focus on landing gently with a midfoot or forefoot strike. Gradually increase your wear time to build strength and prevent discomfort.
How to Wash Barefoot Shoes?
Most barefoot shoes can be cleaned with a gentle hand wash using mild soap and water. Be sure to check the care instructions specific to your brand.
Do Barefoot Shoes Work?
Yes, barefoot shoes can improve foot strength, enhance posture, and provide better sensory feedback. They encourage a more natural walking and running gait.
