Best Barefoot Hiking Sandals & Running Sandals (Ultimate Multi-Sport Picks)

Most outdoor sandals are either too stiff, too narrow, or too clunky to move naturally in. They might work for protection, but they often feel like small pieces of gear strapped to your feet instead of something you actually want to walk, hike, or run in.

That’s why minimalist sandals make so much sense for warm-weather movement. The best barefoot hiking sandals and barefoot running sandals give your toes space, keep the sole flexible, and stay secure enough for real use, not just casual summer walks.

In this guide, we’re sharing the barefoot sandals we’ve tested for hiking, running, walking, travel, and everyday wear. Some are better for technical trails, some are made for running, and others are more beginner-friendly or comfortable for long days on your feet.

Update (June 2026): This review was updated with Vivobarefoot Tracker Ora added, plus refreshed notes on existing favorites, fit, real-life use, and best-use recommendations.

Why We Wear Barefoot Sandals (And You Might Want To Too)

Most traditional sport sandals are built like mini hiking shoes: thick soles, stiff footbeds, raised heels, and narrow shapes that don’t let your toes spread naturally.

Barefoot sandals take a different approach. They keep the protection and grip you need for warm-weather adventures, but remove the bulk that gets in the way of natural movement.

The best minimalist sandals usually have:

• A wide, foot-shaped sole so your toes can spread instead of being pushed together
• A zero-drop platform so your heel and forefoot stay level
• A flexible sole that bends with your foot instead of controlling it
• Secure straps that keep the sandal in place while walking, hiking, or running
• Enough grip for the activity without making the sandal feel stiff or overbuilt

That combination is what makes barefoot sandals so useful for summer. They feel light and freeing, but still give you enough protection for trails, travel, long walks, and everyday wear.

If you’re planning to go off-road, you’ll want sandals with a grippy tread, a secure strap system, and a toe post design to keep your foot stable. For walking or casual use, Z-strap styles can work well, but they often lack the same lateral security for trails or hills.

How to Choose the Right Size in Barefoot Sandals

Most barefoot sandal brands offer printable templates so you can check if the sole shape, length, and strap placement work for your feet. A few brands, like Panta, Shamma, and Bosky, even offer custom sole shapes based on your foot tracing if standard options don’t fit well.

Make sure all your toes stay on the sole while walking, and leave enough space for natural toe splay – even if your toes are currently compressed or misaligned, they need room to move back to their natural position over time.

Keep in mind that sandals generally require less extra length than closed shoes. You can read more about this in our guides on how barefoot sandals should fit and how much space you need in shoes.

Best Barefoot Hiking, Running and Walking Sandal Brands

Below are the sandals that stood out most in our testing, from trail-ready pairs to lightweight running options and easy everyday styles. In each section, we’ll explain where they work best, how they feel on the foot, and what kind of feet they’re most likely to fit.

VIVOBAREFOOT Tracker Ora

Use BU25 for 25% discount

The Vivobarefoot Tracker Ora was one of the loveliest surprises for us this year. From the product photos, we honestly didn’t expect them to feel this good, but both Tjaša and I had the same reaction as soon as we put them on: they feel amazing on the feet.

They quickly earned a spot near the top of this list because they feel like a true outdoor barefoot sandal. The sole has a nice soft squish, but still keeps that flexible, natural feel Vivobarefoot is known for. The deeper tread gives enough traction for summer hiking and uneven terrain, without making the sandal feel stiff or heavy underfoot.

The straps are another big reason we were so impressed. They are soft, easy to adjust, and surprisingly fuss-free. Some sport sandals take a bit of work to get right, but Tracker Ora is easy to put on and still feels secure once you start walking.

Sizing & Fit: Best for narrow and medium-width feet. My feet are already close to the width limit in the women’s version, so wider feet may need to be careful. Because Tracker Ora comes in both women’s and men’s sizes, it is worth checking the men’s version too if you are in the overlapping size range and want a little more width.

Best For: Summer hiking, outdoor walking, travel, and people who want a secure barefoot sandal with more traction and comfort underfoot.

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Panta Sandals

Use BAREFOOTUNIVERSEPANTA for 5% discount

Panta Sandals are one of our all-time favorite barefoot sandal brands. We’ve tested basically all of their models, but Nemeas is the one I reached for the most. I wear them constantly, almost daily through the summer, because they are light, simple, comfortable, and easy to use for everyday wear.

What makes Panta special is the customization. You can choose the sole shape and strap placement outside the main season, which makes a big difference in how naturally the sandal sits on your foot.

While Panta doesn’t offer thick or ultra-cushioned soles, their sandals strike a lovely balance between ground feel, comfort, and durability. Nemeas is our favorite everyday model, while other Panta styles are better suited for road running, wet conditions, or more active use.

Sizing & Fit: Panta sandals fit true to size, with a standard shape that works best for medium-width feet, but the customization makes them suitable for different widths. With a custom sole shape, they can work well for narrow to even extra wide feet. The straps are highly adjustable, so they can accommodate different foot volumes too. Use their printable templates to check the sole shape, length, and strap position before ordering.

Best For: Everyday barefoot walking, road running, travel, and light hiking.

👉 Read our full Panta Sandals review

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Shamma Sandals

Use BAREFOOTUNIVERSE for 10% discount

Shamma makes some of the most versatile barefoot sandals on the market – and some of the best barefoot hiking sandals, too. With a huge range of sole thicknesses, from ultra-thin to well-cushioned, they’re a solid choice whether you’re new to barefoot shoes or a seasoned hiker. We especially love the Elite and Trailstar models for everyday use, and the Ibex sole for hiking thanks to its serious tread. Shamma also offers plenty of customization – different strap colors, materials, and even custom sole shapes.

Sizing & Fit: Best suited for medium and wide feet. If your feet are narrow, the standard sole might feel too wide, but you can request custom sole shapes. Use their printable templates to confirm sizing, especially for toe placement and width. Strap systems are adjustable, though some models may take a few wears to fine-tune the fit.

Best For: Everyday barefoot wear, hiking, and anyone needing a range of sole thicknesses – from minimalist to cushioned.

👉 Read our full Shamma Sandals review

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Earth Runners

Use BU10 for 10% discount

Earth Runners are some of the most stylish barefoot sport sandals we’ve ever worn – and they’ve stood the test of time. With three sole thickness options and multiple lace styles and colors, these sandals combine performance with everyday wearability. While the grounding feature is a standout, the break-in period is real, especially with certain lace types. Once they soften, though, they’re incredibly comfortable and great for hiking, walking, or just wearing to the beach.

Sizing & Fit: Earth Runners fit medium feet best. Use their printable templates to check the sole shape and strap position – there’s no customization option, so the template needs to match your foot well. Once adjusted, the huarache lacing system is easy to slip on and off without daily readjustment.

Best For: Stylish barefoot walking, light hiking, and grounding – after the break-in period.

👉 Read our full Earth Runners review

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Xero Shoes

Xero sandals are the kind of sandals we appreciate for easy, practical use. They are lightweight, quick-drying, easy to clean, and simple to pack, which makes them useful for travel, beach days, everyday walking, and casual summer adventures.

But they are not our first choice for technical hiking or more demanding terrain. In our experience, some strap designs don’t feel as stable laterally, especially when walking on slopes, and the toe box shape tapers earlier than we’d like. The Z-strap styles are also worth checking carefully, because the strap placement can push into the toes if the fit is not right.

For casual use, though, Xero sandals still make sense. They are accessible, low-maintenance, and easy to wear, especially if you have narrow to medium-width feet and want something practical rather than highly technical.

Sizing & Fit: Best suited for narrow to medium-width feet. Some styles, like the H-Trail, may not work well for low-volume feet because of limited adjustability. Always use Xero’s printable templates to check the sole shape, length, and strap positioning before ordering.

Best For: Everyday barefoot walking, travel, beach use, and light hiking – not ideal for technical terrain.

👉 Read our full Xero Shoes review

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Lems Shoes

Use BU10 for 10% at Lems EU

The Lems Switchback sandals stand out on this list as one of the few options with a thicker, cushioned sole and a slight heel rise – but we still love them. With a 3 mm drop and a soft, lightweight sole, they offer a great mix of comfort and freedom for beginners or anyone easing into barefoot footwear. While not fully zero-drop, they’re an excellent gateway into more minimal styles, especially for those seeking barefoot hiking sandals that still offer some cushioning.

They feel incredibly secure on the feet, with adjustable straps that stay put without rubbing, and they’re easy to slip on once adjusted. These were an instant favorite for my mum – proof that they’re ideal even for more sensitive or transitioning feet.

Sizing & Fit: Best for narrow to medium-width feet. If you have longer toes or need more width, consider sizing up. The sandals offer good adjustability for different foot volumes, and the straps are soft and secure once set.

Best For: Beginner barefoot users, walking, casual hiking, and anyone looking for a wide toe box with extra cushioning.

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Freet

Use code BU_FREET for 10% discount

The Freet Zennor 2 is the pair I reach for when I want something that feels more like an open barefoot shoe than a real sandal. It gives you toe protection, but still feels much airier than a regular closed shoe thanks to the breathable mesh upper.

This makes it a great option for walking, light hiking, travel, and summer adventures where you want more coverage than an open sandal. They can also get wet and dry easily, which makes them practical for mixed summer conditions.

The flexible sole keeps them feeling barefoot, while the removable insole adds a little extra softness underfoot. That makes them a nice beginner-friendly option, especially if ultra-thin sandals still feel like too much too soon.

Sizing & Fit: Best suited for medium-width feet with average volume. If you have wider feet, we recommend sizing up one full size for extra space.

Best For: Walking, hiking, and summer adventures where you want toe protection and breathable comfort.

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Wildling Shoes

Use BU for 5€ ($10) discount

Wildling’s Feder sandals are some of the most unique barefoot sandals we’ve tested – and one of our favorites for everyday walking. They look more like airy shoes than typical sandals, with lots of openings for breathability and a soft, minimal construction. While they’re not made for hiking, they’re incredibly comfortable for long walks and daily wear. At first glance, the design may look unusual, but once you put them on, it all makes sense. Even our kids love them – and so do we.

Sizing & Fit: Best for narrow and medium-width feet. Always size up one size, as they run short. While they’re not water sandals, we’ve gotten them wet occasionally and they held up well. Washing in the machine can cause some shrinkage, but we’ve easily reshaped them afterward.

Best For: Everyday barefoot walking – especially if you want the feeling of a shoe with the breathability of a sandal.

👉 Read our full Wildling Feather Sandals review

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Bahé

Use BU10 for 10% discount

Bahé’s Respire sandals are grounding, vegan, and built with a minimalist strap design – but they feel more structured and supportive than most minimalist sandals. With a thicker, firmer sole and textured footbed, they’re a solid pick for barefoot beginners or anyone wanting more protection underfoot. That said, the combination of a firm platform and lightweight straps can feel a little strange at first – almost like a soft lace holding a rigid sole. The instep velcro strap is comfortable but not super adjustable, which may be a challenge for low and high-volume feet.

Sizing & Fit: Best for medium to wide feet. The straps work best for average volume feet – low-volume feet may struggle with overhang at the instep velcro. Use printable templates to confirm sole shape before ordering. Fit is secure once adjusted, though the fixed strap layout means it’s not as customizable as other barefoot models.

Best For: Grounded barefoot hiking and walking with extra protection – especially if you prefer a firmer, more supportive feel underfoot.

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Bosky

Use BU10 for 10% discount

Bosky sandals are a popular choice for walking and light hiking, with several different strap styles – including Z-strap models for those who prefer nothing between their toes. They’re water-friendly, come in both standard and custom shapes, and are also available in kids’ sizes. While we appreciate the quality and versatility, Bosky’s standard shape didn’t work for my feet, and even a custom-made pair didn’t solve the fit issues completely. The strap adjustment was difficult, and despite my best efforts, the sandals didn’t stay aligned during walking.

Sizing & Fit: Bosky sandals come in a standard shape and can also be custom-made using your foot tracing. Be sure to print their template before ordering, as the standard sole didn’t work for our foot shape at all.

Best For: Light hiking or everyday barefoot walking – if the shape fits your feet well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are barefoot sandals good for hiking?

Yes, but only if the sandal is secure enough for the terrain. For hiking, we look for straps that keep the foot from sliding forward or sideways, a grippy sole, and enough protection underfoot for rocks, roots, and uneven ground.

For summer hiking, we’d choose more outdoor-focused options like Vivobarefoot Tracker Ora, Shamma Sandals, or Lems Switchback Sandal rather than the thinnest or most casual styles on this list.

Can you run in barefoot sandals?

Absolutely. Many barefoot runners prefer sandals for warm-weather training or long distances. Choose a pair with secure straps and good ground feel, like Panta Sandals, and make sure they don’t shift or rub while running.

How should barefoot sandals fit?

Your toes should not hang over the sole, and there should be enough width for full toe splay. Sandals typically need less extra length than closed shoes.
👉 Learn more in our fit guide: How Should Barefoot Sandals Fit?

Conclusion

The best barefoot sandal depends on how you’ll actually use it. For hiking, choose grip and security. For running, go light and precise. For everyday wear, comfort and fit matter most.

We hope this guide helps you find a pair that feels good in real life, not just on paper. Still comparing options? Check our Best Barefoot Sandals for Women, Best Barefoot Sandals for Men, Complete List of Barefoot Sandals, or take our Foot Width Quiz.