My Favorite Barefoot Sandals After Trying 20 Different Kinds

SKL is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn affiliate commission. Learn more here.

Whether you’re hitting the trails, strolling through the city, or simply enjoying everyday adventures, barefoot sandals allow your feet to move naturally while staying cool, flexible, and protected.

We’ve carefully curated the best barefoot sandals of 2026, tested for hiking, walking, traveling, and daily wear, so you can step confidently into healthier, happier feet.

Ever tried sandals that make your feet stronger instead of sorer? Barefoot sandals might not look like much, but there’s a lot more to them than you might think!

These zero-drop, ultra-flexible sandals let your feet move the way nature intended. There are no arch crutches, no squished toes, and no thick soles that disconnect you from the ground.

Instead of foam and fluff, you get freedom and function. Better posture. Better balance. And yes, stronger feet.

And even better, barefoot sandals aren’t just good for your feet, they’re often better for the planet, too.

SKL top picks, in a nutshell…

Best All-Around Barefoot Sandals: Feelgrounds
Best Barefoot Sandals for Families: Wildling Shoes
Best Barefoot Sandals for Grounding: Earth Runners
Best Barefoot Sandals For Trail Running: Bahé
Best Budget-Friendly Barefoot Sandals: Xero Shoes

Many brands are ditching synthetic materials that take centuries to biodegrade in favor of natural materials like hemp, cork, and recycled rubber. Less landfill, more thoughtful design.

If you’re new to the world of barefoot sandals, or barefoot shoes in general, in this guide, I’m breaking down exactly what makes a sandal truly barefoot and why it matters for your long-term foot health.

We’re shining a spotlight on the 9 best barefoot sandal brands. Whether you’re after something trail-ready, city-friendly, or stylish enough for brunch, we’ve got options for you.

I’ve also included my favorite tips and tricks to help you find the perfect pair that fits you just right.

Why Barefoot Sandals Are Better For Your Feet

Sure, squishy soles and built-in arch support feel comfy…at first. But over time, all that artificial cushioning can actually weaken the muscles in your feet.

That’s because conventional sandals often do the work for your body. This compromises your foot’s natural position as well as your posture.

But barefoot sandals are built to do the exact opposite.

With a zero-drop base (that’s heel and toe on the same level), flexible materials, and plenty of room for your toes, barefoot sandals encourage your feet to move, flex, and stabilize exactly the way they’re built to.

The result? Stronger feet. Better balance. Improved posture from the ground up. It’s like a core workout but for your arches!

If you’re a runner and interested in how you can improve your foot strength, you might want to check out our article on barefoot running shoes & sandals.

Barefoot Sandals Are Better For The Planet

Not only are barefoot sandals amazing for foot health, but they’re often better for the planet too. Many barefoot brands use eco-friendly materials like:

Cork
Hemp
Recycled Rubber

These sustainable sandals are made with minimalist designs that use less material overall compared to bulky conventional sandals.

Some brands even offer repairable or modular designs to extend the sandal’s lifespan and minimize waste.

Barefoot Sandals & Grounding

Some barefoot sandals, like Earth Runners, are designed with conductive elements that connect you to the Earth’s electrical field.

It’s called grounding, and while the scientific results aren’t conclusive yet, many people report that grounding helps them:

Sleep Better
Feel More Relaxed
Reduce Inflammation

The idea is simple. When your body makes direct contact with the Earth (even through a conductive sole), you’re reconnecting to the planet’s natural energy.

Is it a little woo? Maybe. But, is it also kind of amazing? Definitely!

Whether you’re in it for foot strength, the eco-cred, or the grounding vibes, barefoot sandals are a clear (and comfy) upgrade from your average flip-flop.

How to find the best barefoot sandals?

Not all “barefoot” sandals walk the walk. With so many brands jumping on the minimalism bandwagon, it can be hard to tell the real deal from clever marketing.

Here’s how to spot a true barefoot sandal:

Zero-Drop Platform: Your heel and toes should sit on the same level, flat, grounded, and naturally aligned. No heel lift. No pitch. Just a stable base that supports real posture and a healthier stride.

Flexible, Thin Soles (4–10mm Range): Barefoot sandals let your feet actually feel the ground. Think of it like sensory input for your entire body. Thin = connected. Flexible = functional. If the sole doesn’t bend easily in your hands? It’s probably not barefoot.

Wide Toe Box: Your toes deserve room to stretch, splay, and grip the earth like nature intended. Look for a foot-shaped design, not something that smooshes everything forward like a pointy-toed dress shoe from 2006.

Secure, Adjustable Fit: Your sandals should move with you, not against you. Adjustable straps or laces keep everything snug without friction or blisters. A proper fit = no flopping, no slipping, and no weird toe-gripping to keep them on.

Finding Your Perfect Barefoot Fit (Without the Frustration)

✅ Know Your Foot Shape

Not all feet are created equal. You might have wide toes, narrow heels, a high instep, or more volume through the arch.

The right barefoot sandal should honor your natural anatomy, not fight it. Some brands are better for wide feet (like Feelgrounds). Others cater to narrower profiles (Be Lenka’s has got you).

Knowing your shape makes the search way easier.

✅ Learn to Measure (Yes, It’s Worth It)

Before you click “Add to Cart,” take two minutes to measure your feet. Here’s how:

Place your foot on a sheet of paper and trace around it
Measure the length from heel to the longest toe
Measure the width of the ball of your foot
Compare with the brand’s size chart—not your usual shoe size

Many barefoot brands also offer printable “fit templates” (Wildling Shoes, Luna Sandals, and others) to help you get it just right.

✅ Go Slow If You’re New

If your feet have spent years in cushy, narrow, arch-hugging shoes, barefoot sandals might feel a little weird at first. That’s totally normal.

You’re asking muscles to wake up, balance to shift, and posture to recalibrate. Remember to take it slow:

Start with short walks
Alternate with your usual shoes
Give your calves and arches some love (hello, stretching!)

Now that you know what barefoot sandals are supposed to feel like, and how to find your best fit, it’s time to introduce you to our favorites.

Whether you’re chasing trails, chasing toddlers, or just chasing more breathable footwear, there’s sure to be a barefoot sandal option you’re going to love.

My Top Picks: Barefoot Sandals I Would Buy Again

1. Wildling Shoes

Best For: Families & Everyday Adventure

US Customers: Use discount code SKL10 to save $10!

EU Customers: Use discount code SKL5 to save €5!

Shop Wildling Shoes usa

Shop Wildling Shoes eu

Don’t let the soft profile fool you, Wildling Shoes barefoot sandals are built for wild movement.

These minimalist stunners feature ultra-flexible soles, windlass-secured straps, and foot-hugging uppers made from natural and recycled materials.

They even have a protective toe wrap for extra durability on rocky terrain.

Wildling is one of the few brands that make barefoot shoes for kids, and they’re one of the most comfortable picks for families who hike, explore, or just love that grounded feel.

Price & Sizing

$99 | Women’s US 5-14 | Men’s US 4-13.5

Materials & Thickness

Synthetic Rubber | Washi (ITOITEX) | Lunatur Insole | Microfiber | 6-11mm

Location/Shipping

Handmade in Portugal, ships to the United States & Canada

2. Feelgrounds

Best For: Urban Walking, Travel, Casual Everyday Use

Use discount code SKL15 to save 15%!

Shop Feelgrounds

Stylish, sustainable, and surprisingly foot-friendly, Feelgrounds is one of our favorite barefoot shoemakers.

In fact, we have a whole review dedicated to Feelgrounds and their shoes.

Their sandals are sleek enough to wear around town, but still tick all the minimalist boxes: zero-drop sole, wide-toe box, and lightweight construction that moves with your foot—not against it.

From breathable knit uppers to flexible cork footbeds, everything is vegan and ethically made in ILO-compliant factories.

Bonus: Most people find them true to size, so no weird sizing math is required.

Price & Sizing

From $89+ | Women’s US 5-11.5 | Men’s US 7-15

Materials & Thickness

Location/Shipping

Designed in Germany, ethically made in Vietnam, ships to the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia & New Zealand

3. Earth Runners

Best For: Earthing, Hiking, Daily Wear

Use discount code SKL10 to save 10%!

Shop Earth Runners

If you’ve ever wished your feet could plug into the Earth like a phone charger, Earth Runners are your dream come true.

These grounding-friendly sandals come with copper-laced straps that help maintain direct contact with the Earth’s energy.

Wild? Maybe. Restorative? A lot of folks say yes. The construction is simple and secure.

Their barefoot sandals are made with Vibram® soles, moisture-wicking footbeds, and your choice of ergonomic, classic, or performance laces.

Be warned, they have a bit of a learning curve. But once you break them in, it’s hard to go back.

Price & Sizing

$69 | Women’s US 6-16 | Men’s US 4-14

Materials & Thickness

Vibram® Rubber | Walkbase GumEVA | 100% Cotton Canvas | Nylon Laces | 7.5–10.5mm

Location/Shipping

Handmade in California, USA, ships to Canada, Ireland, Germany & Qatar

4. Luna Sandals

Best For: Hiking, Running, Off-Road Trekking

Use discount code SUSTAINABLYKINDLIVING to save 10%!

Shop Luna Sandals

Born from the barefoot running movement, Luna Sandals are designed for a serious ground feel and serious mileage.

These trail-ready huarache-style sandals feature Vibram® soles, endlessly adjustable straps, and zero-drop platforms that support natural movement without slowing you down.

Whether you’re trail running or city trekking, there’s a model built to match.

They’re also ultra-durable and made in the USA with a nod to timeless Indigenous design. Proof that form and function don’t have to be at odds.

Price & Sizing

From $70+ | Women’s US 6-15 | Men’s US 4-13

Materials & Thickness

Location/Shipping

United States

5. Bahé

Best For: Trail Running & Outdoor Adventures

Use discount code SKL10 to save 10%!

Shop Bahé

If you’re into performance, grounding, and sleek modern design, Bahé might just be your sole mate.

Their flagship sandal, the Respire, blends barefoot mechanics with trail-friendly features like zero-drop sole, wide toe splay, and a textured footbed for added sensory feedback.

But, what sets these sandals apart? Built-in grounding tech that connects your body to the Earth’s natural charge.

It’s waterproof, adjustable, and built to handle rugged terrain without disconnecting you from what’s underfoot.

Price & Sizing

$109 | Women’s US 5-14 | Men’s 4-13

Materials & Thickness

Natural Rubber | Sugarcane EVA | 100% Recycled Webbing | 13mm

Location/Shipping

United Kingdom, ships worldwide

6. Xero Shoes

Best For: Beginners, Travel, Multipurpose Use

Shop Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes is one of the most well-known barefoot brands around, and they are well-loved for a reason!

Their sandals are ultra-lightweight, ultra-packable, and made with zero-drop soles that mimic barefoot movement without skimping on protection.

Most models use recycled quick-dry webbing and their proprietary soles have great traction so they are great for a day on the trail.

From trail hiking to casual errands, Xero Shoes has a sandal for just about every setting.

They’re also vegan and super affordable, making them a great first step into the barefoot world.

Price & Sizing

From $44.99+ | Women’s US 5-12 | Men’s US 6.5-15

Materials & Thickness

Location/Shipping

United States, ships to select international countries

7. Be Lenka

Best For: Brunch, Travel, Everyday Elegance

Shop Be Lenka

If you’re after barefoot sandals that feel great and look like something you’d wear to brunch, Be Lenka delivers.

This European brand knows how to do minimalism without compromising on style.

Their sandals are foot-shaped, zero-drop, and super lightweight, with premium leather uppers and soft rubber soles that flex with every step.

Bonus: Most of their designs are tailored specifically for women’s feet, with adjustable straps and sleek silhouettes that pair easily with dresses, shorts, or officewear.

Price & Sizing

From $94.99+ | Women’s EU 36-43

Materials & Thickness

Rubber | TPU | Leather | Textile | 3mm

Location/Shipping

Slovakia, ships within Europe, the United States & select international countries

8. Ahinsa Shoes

Shop Ahinsa Shoes

Ahinsa barefoot sandals were designed by physiotherapists, and you can tell.

These 100% vegan barefoot sandals offer featherlight comfort, breathable uppers, and flexible soles that support the foot’s natural movement.

They’re ideal if you’re transitioning from conventional shoes and want something gentle, ergonomic, and zero-drop.

Their designs aren’t flashy, but they’re built to last millions of steps (literally), and everything is handmade ethically in Europe.

Price & Sizing

From €119+ | Women’s EU 36-46 | Men’s EU 40-46

Materials & Thickness

Location/Shipping

Czech Republic/Croatia, ships to the United States & Finland

9. Softstar Shoes

Shop Softstar Shoes

Made by hand in Oregon, Softstar Shoes leather barefoot sandals are perfect for anyone who wants comfort, craft, and a grounded feel.

These aren’t your average summer slides. With ultra-flexible Vibram® soles and full-grain leather straps, Softstar sandals mold to your feet over time.

They actually get better with every wear! Plus, everything is responsibly sourced and built in small batches.

If you like timeless styling with a side of sustainability, these might be your go-to.

Price & Sizing

From $135+ | Women’s US 5.5-13 | Men’s US 4.5-15

Materials & Thickness

Location/Shipping

United States, ships to select international countries

Caring for Your Barefoot Sandals The Right Way

Barefoot sandals are built to last, but a little love goes a long way.

With the right care, your favorite pair can carry you through many seasons (and many miles) with comfort and style.

Here’s how to keep them looking good, feeling great, and out of the landfill.

Material-Specific Care Tips

Leather: Brush off dirt and wipe with a damp cloth. Every so often, condition with a natural leather balm to keep the material soft and crack-free.
Canvas: Spot clean with mild soap or hand wash gently in cold water. Let them air-dry completely. Sunlight is fine, but skip the dryer.
Vegan Material: Wipe clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or alcohol-based sprays that can degrade plant-based fibers or finishings.

Repair, Don’t Replace

Many barefoot brands offer replacement parts, modular designs, or even in-house repair services.

Swapping out a strap or sole instead of buying a new one? That’s sustainability in action.

Even if your brand doesn’t offer repairs, a good local cobbler can often handle minor fixes like stitching or sole reinforcement.

Sometimes, a little glue and TLC are all it takes to breathe new life into your favorites.

What to Do at the End of the Road

When your sandals finally wear out (years down the line, if you’ve cared for them!), consider how they break down:

Cork footbeds are often compostable—check with your local facility.
Upcycled soles (like Zuzu’s tire rubber) have already diverted waste from the landfill once.
Leather and plant-based materials biodegrade more easily than synthetics.

The less we send to the landfill, the better.

What To Expect When Transitioning To Barefoot Sandals

If you’re used to traditional shoes, barefoot sandals can feel surprisingly different at first. But don’t worry, that’s part of the magic.

As your feet adjust to working naturally again, you might notice:

A bit of muscle soreness in your feet and calves (hello, foot workout)
Improved balance and stability as those small muscles wake up
A strange but wonderful sense of connection to the ground

Your toes will stretch. Your stride will shift. Your feet might even feel more alive.

Go At Your Own Pace

There’s no race. There’s no wrong way. Just start where you are:

Wear them for short indoor walks to begin with
Add time gradually (think 30-minute errands before full-day hikes)
Alternate with your regular shoes if needed
Stretch your calves, arches, and Achilles to support the transition
Most importantly, listen to your body, not someone else’s timeline

Some people dive in full force. Others ease in over weeks (or months). Both are normal.

Your feet have their own story and their own pace. Every step counts. Every wobble is part of the journey.

And every time you slip on your barefoot sandals, you’re choosing strength, freedom, and a deeper connection to the world beneath you.

Will barefoot sandals work for my foot condition?

Maybe…but it depends on your feet.

Barefoot sandals can help with things like bunions, hammertoes, or balance issues thanks to their roomy toe boxes and flexible soles.

But if you have a medical condition or chronic foot pain, check with your podiatrist first. Your comfort and safety come first.

If you get the green light, start slow and pay attention to how your feet respond. No pushing through pain.

How long does it take to transition?

It varies! Some people adjust in a few weeks. Others need months. If your feet have spent years in squishy, structured shoes, it takes time to rebuild strength and mobility.

Start with short wear sessions (30–60 mins) and build up gradually. Some soreness is normal; that’s your feet waking up.

The key? Go slow, stay consistent, and give your body time to adapt.

Are barefoot sandals worth the investment?

100%. You’re not just buying a sandal, you’re investing in stronger feet, better posture, and long-term comfort.

Most of the brands we recommend use eco-conscious materials and offer repairs or replaceable parts, so your pair can last for years.

Plus, you’re supporting ethical production and sustainable design. That’s a win for your feet and the planet.

How do I know what size to order?

Barefoot sandals fit differently than conventional shoes, so always check the brand’s size chart.

Pro Tip: Measure both the length and width of your feet while standing. Compare those numbers to the chart, and if you’re between sizes, go up (you can adjust straps for a snugger fit).

Final Thoughts On Barefoot Sandals

Barefoot sandals aren’t just better for your feet, they’re better for the planet, too.

By choosing minimalist sandals made with low-impact materials, you’re supporting stronger muscles, healthier movement, and more sustainable production with every step.

Whether you’re hiking a trail, taking the dog on a walk, or just padding around your backyard, barefoot sandals reconnect you to the world in a way most shoes never will.

So take the step. Try a pair. Listen to your feet. The more we honor our natural movement, the more grounded (and comfortable) we become in our bodies and our choices. And what could be better than that?

Explore more of our incredible Barefoot articles: