You read the title right—there’s no need to sacrifice the magical feeling of walking around barefoot just because boot season has arrived! Stylish barefoot boots that won’t compromise your foot health or natural gait are out there, and we’re here to help you find them. In this post, we’ve gathered our personal favorite barefoot boots, carefully tested over the years, and handpicked each pair to bring you the comfiest styles that might make you rethink your winter footwear.
For the most complete lists of barefoot boots for specific needs, check out our picks for the best combat boots, snow boots, Chelsea boots, and knee-high boots to guide your choices. We also offer a full lineup of winter boots for adults, and kids’ winter options in our other posts. Now, let’s dive into the world of the best barefoot boots designed for your everyday fall and winter adventures.
How to Choose the Right Barefoot Boots for You
Finding the best everyday barefoot boots for cold weather can feel challenging, given the variety of styles, brands, and features available. Questions may pop up: Will they keep my feet warm? Will they fit well? Do I need extra features? And most importantly, will they last through the season?
When it comes to barefoot boots, the perks go far beyond just appearance. Barefoot boots come in many styles, materials, and designs tailored for different activities and climates. If you’re concerned about staying warm, look for models with plush wool linings and slightly thicker soles for thermal protection. For added warmth, consider pairing your boots with thick wool socks or toe socks and adding an extra wool or sheepskin insole to keep your feet cozy.
These boots also feature a foot-shaped design and a flexible, zero-drop sole, allowing your foot muscles to activate naturally and your toes to splay freely. This setup promotes warmth, better circulation, and enhanced foot health, while also supporting better balance and posture with each step.
Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider the materials, styles, and activities you have in mind. Be sure to check your foot width and shape, measure your feet accurately, and ensure that there’s adequate space in front of your toes. Finding the perfect match for your foot type and lifestyle will help you enjoy your barefoot boots to the fullest.
For a deeper dive, our online courses cover everything you need to know about barefoot shoes and foot health, from choosing the right fit and transitioning to barefoot shoes to using toe spacers and essential foot exercises. Understanding your foot type and transitioning effectively is key to supporting foot health and avoiding common issues down the line.
Now, let’s explore the best barefoot boots for keeping your feet happy and healthy through the colder months!
The Best Everyday Barefoot Boots
Peerko
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, Vegan | EU 37 – EU 45 | From 154€ |
Use BOSENOGICE10 for 10% discount
Best for: Medium-wide feet, average instep, average ankles, and heels
Why We Recommend:
- Very lightweight leather and vegan barefoot boots.
- Some of the most stylish barefoot winter boots, including combat and knee-high styles.
- Options available for both regular and wide calves
Consider Before Buying:
- Some styles may not tighten enough for skinny ankles and heels
Peerko impressed us from the start with their canvas sneakers, and their winter collection is just as eye-catching. The boots come in both leather and vegan versions, including high-quality vegan leather options. They’re notably lightweight, with easy slip-on styles like the Go and Breeze. Plus, adjustable laces ensure a good fit for various calf widths.
Sizing & Fit: Peerko barefoot boots are best suited for medium and medium-wide feet. If you’re on the wider end or prefer a roomier fit, sizing up can add a bit of extra width—particularly helpful if you’ll be wearing thick socks in colder weather, especially with their wool-lined models. They’re great for feet with an average volume, but can also work well if you have a higher instep or wider ankles. However, those with skinny ankles might struggle to get a snug fit, as the laces can come together before fully tightening.
Explore More: Find out more about Peerko in our review.
Lang.S Barefoot Boots (formerly Tikki Shoes)
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, vegan | EU 36 – EU 45 | From 139€ |
Use BU10 for 10% discount
Best for: Medium to wide feet, average instep height
Why We Recommend:
- High-quality, vegetable-tanned leather or vegan materials for durability and comfort..
- Stylish designs that blend functionality with a modern aesthetic.
- Commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly production methods.
Consider Before Buying:
- Check size charts before buying, as you may need one size smaller than usual for other brands.
Lang.S, an evolution of Tikki Shoes, has impressed us with its dedication to quality and sustainability. Their boots are crafted from vegetable-tanned leather or vegan materials, lined with soft wool or leather for added comfort and durability. The designs are both stylish and functional, making them versatile for various occasions. Their winter boots come with different outsoles—the KOMBAT boots, for instance, feature a thicker, grippier sole ideal for added traction.
Sizing & Fit: Lang.S boots are best suited for medium to wide feet with an average instep. Most styles fit true to size, but they use a different size chart, so checking internal lengths before buying can be helpful, as you might need one size smaller than with other brands. If you’re between sizes or plan to wear thicker socks, sizing up might be beneficial—especially in the Velvet model, which has a thicker lining. The boots accommodate average foot volume well; however, higher-ankle models may not be the best fit for wider calves.
Wildling Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Vegan – textile and wool | EU 18 – EU 48 | From 119€ |
Use AWN_BAREFOOTUNIVERSE for FREE SHIPPING
Best for: Narrow and medium-width feet, average instep height
Why We Recommend:
- Wildling Shoes offers some of the softest and most comfortable barefoot boots available, providing a true barefoot feeling.
- Innovative designs with a commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly materials like wool, hemp, and even recycled components.
- The wool models are surprisingly warm, making them suitable even for snowy conditions.
Consider Before Buying:
- Their style is less mainstream, with a casual look that pairs best with a relaxed, everyday wardrobe.
- Higher lace-up models without side zipper can take a bit longer to put on.
Wildling Shoes holds a very special place in our heart. We’ve been wearing their shoes for many years, and they are among the softest boots you can imagine. With Wildling Shoes, you get as close to a barefoot feeling as ever possible with a shoe. I love wearing them and put them on whenever we can. Their winter barefoot boots, Crow, has been at my doorstep for the fourth year in a row. All their boots are made from textile or wool and share a similar design. Each year, they experiment with different colors and materials. The warmest models are the high wool boots, perfect for winter, but we recommend adding wool insoles for extra coziness.
Sizing & Fit: Wildling models are best suited for medium-wide feet, but their winter boots may feel narrower compared to their spring/summer models made from thinner materials. For winter models, we highly recommend sizing up by one size, especially if you want to add wool insoles or if your feet are not on the narrow side. The overall fit depends on the model, but in winter models, Wildling has added some volume to the shoe (while keeping the sole width the same), so you may notice more creasing of the material if your feet are low-volume. We recommend wearing thicker socks and adding wool insoles for extra comfort.
Explore More: Find out more about Wildling Shoes in our review.
Mukishoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather – Textile – Cork | EU 36 – EU 48 | From 160€ |
Use UNIVERSEMUKI for 10% off
Best for: Narrow and medium-width feet, average instep
Why We Recommend:
- Lightweight and flexible, giving a true barefoot experience.
- Made with natural, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, wool, and cork.
- Timeless, minimalist look that pairs well with both casual and relaxed styles.
Consider Before Buying:
- Some models may not provide enough warmth in extreme winter conditions.
- Limited stock, with no restocks during the season, as they prioritize sustainable and mindful production.
- Some models may appear baggy around the ankles, as the soft materials lack additional ankle reinforcement.
Mukishoes has won us over with their dedication to sustainability and simplicity. They use thoughtfully chosen natural materials, such as organic cotton, wool, and cork, which not only feel great but are also better for the environment. These boots keep the barefoot experience authentic with their lightweight and flexible design, making them a joy to wear all day. We love Mukishoes’ minimalist, understated style, which easily pairs with a variety of casual looks. However, their boots are generally best suited for milder winter conditions, as some styles may lack heavy insulation.
Sizing & Fit: Mukishoes tend to fit narrow and medium wide feet the best. The sole is very soft and allows some stretching to the sides, but sizing up may be necessary for extra width. I usually size up in all their winter models as I don’t find their boots wide enough for me in my usual size. They fit the best for average foot volume and can accommodate higher volume feet as well. Their Chelsea boots fit better for slimmer calves and ankles, as the ankle opening is not as big. If you have low volume feet, adding the insole can significantly improve the fit. Adding an insole is also recommended for extra warmth, as they may not be warm enough for winter without some additional protection, given the extra thin sole.
Explore More: Find out more about Mukishoes in our review.
Be Lenka & Barebarics Barefoot Boots
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use BU5 for 5% off
Best for: Medium and wide feet, low and average instep, average heels (depends on the model)
Why We Recommend:
- Impressive variety of barefoot boots for almost any occasion and activity.
- High-quality materials with durable soles ensure both style and resilience.
Consider Before Buying:
- The soles offer good protection and traction, but they may feel a little more robust than what you are used to with barefoot boots
When it comes to winter barefoot boots, Be Lenka has it all. Their selection, ranging from lace-up boots to chelsea boots, knee-high boots, waterproof boots, and hiking boots, is extensive, making it almost challenging to choose just one pair. Notably, they boast the broadest range of barefoot boots for men. We appreciate that their shoes are crafted with quality materials, including durable soles and TEX membrane. Be Lenka makes it easy to find a model for almost any activity, offering various linings from wool to thinner felt or leather to suit your needs. Keep in mind that their soles might feel sturdier than what you’re used to with barefoot shoes.
Sizing & Fit: Be Lenka boots come in different shapes, but most are ideal for wide feet with an average instep. Winter models are not the best choice for high-volume feet, but sizing up can provide more width/volume. Thicker-lined models may feel snug and short, so sizing up is recommended for winter boots, leaving around 17 mm of extra space according to their size chart. Overall, they are quite versatile and easily adjustable even for narrower feet.
Explore More: Find out more about Be Lenka in our review.
Shapen Barefoot Boots
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, Vegan | EU 35 – EU 47 | From 139€ |
Use BOSENOGICE5 for 5% off
Best for: Medium and wide feet, average instep, providing more volume in the midfoot
Why We Recommend:
- Elegant, fashion-forward designs that bring barefoot functionality to stylish footwear.
- Spacious, roomy toe box, allowing ample space for natural toe splay.
Consider Before Buying:
- Some styles might not provide sufficient warmth for harsh winter conditions.
- Certain materials, especially the leather, may be prone to faster creasing with regular wear.
If you’ve struggled to find barefoot shoes that match your style, Shapen is here to change that. Known for their stunning barefoot boots designed for women, and now with a model for men, Shapen combines elegance with foot health. Their boots are wide, roomy, and incredibly soft—like being hugged by a cloud. The thin, flexible sole gives an amazing barefoot feel, although these boots may not be ideal for hiking or slippery winter adventures.
Sizing & Fit: Shapen shoes are perfect for wide feet and can even accommodate extra-wide feet, though sizing up may be necessary for some styles. Many of their winter boots offer additional volume in the midfoot and fit wider ankles and heels well. For those with low volume feet, narrow ankles, or narrow heels, styles with laces can be adjusted to improve fit, though you may notice some material creasing or slight heel lift (an extra insole or thicker socks can help). Shaped shoes generally fit according to the size chart.
Explore More: Find out more about Shapen in our review.
Realfoot
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, vegan | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 153€ |
Use 10BU for 10% discount
Best for: Medium, wide feet and extra wide feet, low and average volume
Why We Recommend:
- Wide toe box that provides plenty of room for natural toe splay.
- Durable materials that handle outdoor conditions well.
- Lightweight and flexible design that still offers great protection.
Consider Before Buying:
- Limited color and style options, leaning more toward practical than fashion-forward.
- Less suitable for narrow feet.
Realfoot boots are a great choice for those who prioritize foot health, offering one of the widest toe boxes available in barefoot footwear. Crafted from high-quality materials, Realfoot boots balance a lightweight feel with the durability needed for various outdoor terrains. With a rugged, minimalist design, they focus on practicality, making them ideal for those seeking a versatile, durable barefoot boot.
Sizing & Fit: Realfoot boots are featuring a generous toe box that allows for natural toe splay, making them especially well-suited for wide and extra-wide feet. They accommodate both narrow and average heel widths and can be adjusted to fit different foot volumes. They fit true to size for most, but if you have a higher instep or plan to wear thicker socks, sizing up might add a bit more comfort.
Proalp
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, vegan | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use BU5 for 5% discount
Best for: Narrow, medium and wide feet (depending on a model), narrower heels, low-average volume
Why We Recommend:
- Handmade with a focus on high-quality, durable materials.
- Built for various terrains, making them ideal for everyday wear and outdoor activities.
- Customizable options available for a more tailored fit and design.
Consider Before Buying:
- Limited style range, with a focus on function and durability.
Proalp is a Slovenian brand that has made a name for itself in the world of barefoot footwear with its commitment to quality craftsmanship and functional design. Their shoes are handcrafted from high quality, durable materials, making them an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts as well as everyday wear.
With Proalp, you also have the option to customize certain features, allowing for a more personalized fit based on your specific foot shape and activity needs (different sole widths, different colors, linings, side zippers, etc.) While they may not offer a wide range of styles, their shoes are designed to last and handle all kinds of weather conditions, from rocky trails to city streets.
Sizing & Fit: Proalp shoes are available in three different widths. Their “widest plus” models are a fantastic option for wide and extra-wide feet, while most styles are best suited for narrower to medium-width feet, narrow to average ankles and heels, and low to medium foot volumes. Proalp styles fit true to size and are even available in half sizes, with customization options for a more personalized fit if needed.
Ahinsa Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Vegan | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use BU10 for 10% discount
Best for: Medium, wide feet and extra wide feet (depends on a model), low-average foot volume
Why We Recommend:
- Made from 100% vegan materials, with a commitment to ethical, cruelty-free production.
- One of the softest and lightweight vegan barefoot boots available.
- Durable, weather-resistant materials, making them suitable for various climates.
- Available in both “barefoot” and “comfort” editions, with “comfort” models offering insoles with a slight heel rise for those easing into barefoot footwear.
Consider Before Buying:
- Newer models, such as the Tara sneakers, feature a narrower toe box shape that may require sizing adjustments.
Ahinsa Shoes stands out as one of the best vegan barefoot boots in the market. These boots are extremely lightweight, super soft, and flexible, providing an exceptionally comfortable wearing experience. The vegan upper material is of high quality, resistant to creasing, and maintains a new look even after extensive use. It’s wear-resistant, and the sole shows no visible scuffs. The thin and flexible sole also offers good slip-resistance. Ahinsa offers various winter boots, with the Jaya and Tara boots being a personal favorite.
Sizing & Fit: Ahinsa shoes are available in different widths and shapes. Most styles are best suited for medium and wide feet with low to average foot volume, with some styles also offered in extra-wide widths, making them some of the widest barefoot shoes available. The new shape is better suited for medium-width and less bean-shaped feet. Shoe length generally aligns with the size chart, but the Tara sneakers may feel slightly longer, so sizing down could be necessary. Most styles are available in both “barefoot” and “comfort” editions, with “comfort” models featuring insoles with a slight heel rise for those who prefer additional support on their barefoot journey.
Explore More: Find out more about Ahinsa Shoes in our review.
Feelgrounds
| Men’s, Women’s | Vegan | EU 35 – EU 49 | From 142€ |
Use BU5 for 5% off
Best for: Medium and medium-wide feet, average instep
Why We Recommend:
- Mainstream, stylish look that pairs well with a variety of winter outfits.
- Vegan materials, offering a suitable alternative to leather.
Consider Before Buying:
- Thicker, stiffer sole in winter models provides more insulation but reduces ground feel.
- Limited insulation, so adding wool insoles or thicker socks may be needed for warmth in colder climates.
- Vegan materials may feel less breathable.
Feelgrounds also offers a few barefoot boots to choose from. Their fall and winter boots are all vegan and can be a good choice for those seeking a vegan alternative to leather boots. Their Patrol model comes in two versions: one with a lighter lining for milder temperatures and another with a thicker lining and integrated membrane for added insulation. While this design provides thermal protection, it also results in a stiffer feel and less flexibility than typical barefoot options, which is why we consider them more minimalist barefoot boots. With a wide toe box and extra cushioning, they’re a good fit for those transitioning into barefoot footwear who prefer a bit more structure.
Sizing & Fit: Feelgrounds boots don’t feel as wide as their sneakers, making them best suited for medium to medium-wide feet, average volume, and average heel widths. The colder-weather boots have a slight taper on the big toe side, so ensure you leave enough space in front of the toes. For the Patrol model with thicker lining, sizing up by one size is recommended (I chose an extra 18 mm of space) to accommodate thicker socks and maximize comfort.
Explore More: Find out more about Feelgrounds in our review.
Freet
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, vegan | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use bu-freet for 10% discount
Best for: Medium and wide feet, average volume
Why We Recommend:
- Great for those seeking practical, outdoor-friendly barefoot boots.
- Versatile and durable designs, perfect for hiking, outdoor activities, and all-weather use.
Consider Before Buying:
- Vegan boots tend to be less breathable on warmer days.
- Some models may feel slightly more cushioned than traditional barefoot boots.
Freet has made a name for itself with outdoor-ready boots that my husband and I often rely on for housework, hikes, and any activity where mud or wet conditions are likely. With options in both leather and vegan materials, Freet boots are durable and easy to clean, although the vegan models may feel less breathable. These boots also offer a touch of soft cushioning, making them comfortable for long wear without compromising too much on the barefoot experience.
Sizing & Fit: Most Freet styles are well-suited for medium and wide feet. However, it’s essential to note that the fit can vary among Freet models, with more lined models feeling narrower. In these cases, I prefer to size up one full size to ensure more comfortable accommodation for thicker socks and additional width for my toes.
Explore More: Find out more about Freet Footwear in our review.
Koel Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, Vegan | EU 20 – EU 47 | From 94€ |
Why We Recommend:
- Koel offers a wide selection of winter barefoot boots for men and women, with different lining options to suit various needs.
- Great quality at a more affordable price range compared to similar brands.
- Versatile styles that transition well from casual to outdoor settings.
Consider Before Buying:
- These shoes are highly desired and may sell out quickly.
- Koel models are available through various retailers, and not all styles are listed on their official website.
Koel Shoes are a balanced choice for both style and function, making them suitable for daily wear as well as outdoor adventures. We initially discovered Koel through their barefoot shoes for kids, and since then, they’ve expanded to offer an impressive adult collection. Koel boots come with different sole types; their sneakers use very soft, flexible soles, while their winter boots have thicker, stiffer soles designed to provide better protection and traction in cold weather. They also offer a range of linings, with our favorite being the cozy sheepskin, perfect for colder days. You can choose from options like leather, felt, or wool/sheepskin, depending on your needs for warmth and durability.
Sizing & Fit: Koel boots are an excellent fit for narrow and medium-width feet with a low to average instep, though sizing up can make them comfortable for wider feet as well. I typically size up in their winter boots to allow enough space for thicker socks, which works well with my low-volume feet, skinny ankles, and heels. If you have high-volume feet, they might not be the best choice for you.
VIVOBAREFOOT
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather – Textile | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use BUVIVO_20 for 20% discount
Best for: Narrow to medium-width feet, average instep; men’s models are slightly wider and offer more volume.
Why We Recommend:
- They offer some of the most stylish and trendy barefoot shoes on the market.
- Uses high-quality, sustainable, and eco-friendly materials.
- Leather quality is exceptional, providing both durability and a premium feel.
Consider Before Buying:
- Price point is higher than some other brands, but the quality and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment.
- Most styles are best suited for narrower feet, so they may feel too tight for wider foot shapes.
- Their winter boots may not feel as warm as you are used to with other barefoot boots.
VIVOBAREFOOT doesn’t provide an extensive selection of everyday barefoot boots, but they do have two very popular styles, the Gobi boots and Chelsea boots. These boots are synonymous for quality and are very well-made. The new autumn Gobi boots are a real bliss and feel amazingly soft on the feet. The winterized versions of Gobi and their Chelsea boots may feel slightly firmer initially but soften with wear. Keep in mind that their winter boots may not be as warm as some other boots mentioned on this list. VIVOBAREFOOT also offers an extensive range of sportier-looking barefoot boots for those in need of something more practical and hard-wearing.
Sizing & Fit: VIVOBAREFOOT boots generally fit best on narrow to medium-width feet. Men’s models are slightly wider than women’s and provide more volume in the midfoot and ankle areas. If you fall between sizes or have overlapping sizes, you can choose between men’s and women’s models to find the best fit. I always wear my usual size 42 in all VIVO models as they are consistent with sizing.
Explore More: Find out more about VIVOBAREFOOT in our review.
Zeazoo Dingo Boots
| Women’s | Leather | EU 35 – EU 42 | From 99€ |
Use BU10 for 10% discount
Best for: Medium-width feet, average foot volume
Why We Recommend:
- Zeazoo offers super soft sheepskin boots that we love! They are one of the most comfortable and warm barefoot boots, easy to slip on.
- Perfect if you need something to quickly slip on for running errands.
- You can use them as slippers too.
Consider Before Buying:
- They are not waterproof, and the boots are suitable for dry winter days.
- The sheepskin does stretch a little with wear.
Zeazoo only produces one barefoot boot for adults, and we felt the need to include them on the list as they are a must-have in our winter capsule wardrobe. They serve as a perfect barefoot replacement for Ugg boots, being very soft, cozy, and easy to slip on. While we wouldn’t recommend them for long hikes, they are perfect for quick errands in town, taking kids to school, or going to the store. Keep in mind that they are not waterproof and will get wet in wet winter snow or heavy rain.
Sizing & Fit: Zeazoo Dingo is best suited for medium-width feet with average volume. They can also fit medium-wide feet, but in case you have wide feet, your foot may hang over the sole (which is not recommended, as you need full contact with the ground for the sole of the shoe). For choosing your size, we recommend checking their size chart. I’m wearing size 41, which corresponds to the internal length of size 42 in most other brands.
Angles Fashion & Crave Barefoot Boots
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather | EU 37 – EU 46 | From 163€ |
Use BU5 for 5% off
Best for: Angles: narrow and medium-width feet, low instep, skinny ankles; Crave: wide feet, average volume
Why We Recommend:
- Wide selection of classic everyday styles for women and men.
- High-quality materials with different linings (leather or wool).
Consider Before Buying:
- Both brands are run by the same company, but they have different fits.
- Crave brand is currently only sold through the Naboso website.
We’ve included Angles Fashion and Crave brand in the same category as both originate from the same company. Angles Fashion focuses more on classic styles of barefoot boots for fall and winter for men and women, while Crave has sportier, urban styles catering to a younger audience. Both brands feature nicely soft and flexible soles. Most Angles Fashion fall and winter boots are available with regular leather lining or winter wool lining. Most styles are also available in men’s and women’s sizes.
Crave is currently only sold on their Naboso shop website, while you can purchase Angles Fashion shoes on their official Angles Fashion website or at Naboso. Please keep in mind that this year’s Crave collection of barefoot boots is slightly limited.
Sizing & Fit: Angles Fashion boots and Crave boots have slightly different fits. Angles boots are a perfect choice for narrow and medium-width feet. Their Chelsea boots are an ideal fit for skinny ankles and low-volume feet. They can also work for medium-wide feet, but in lined winter models, it is recommended to size up (I choose 16-19 mm extra space). Men’s models have more volume in the midfoot and ball of the boot, but they are not wider at the tip of the toes. The toe box shape of Angles Fashion boots has a stronger slope towards the pinky toe, while Crave shoes have a more square-shaped toe box and are more suited for wider feet with average volume. They can also work for higher volume feet.
Magical Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, vegan | EU 35 – EU 47 | From 129€ |
Use BOSENOGICE for 10% off
Best for: Narrow and medium-width feet, low-average instep
Why We Recommend:
- Magical Shoes offers super flexible and soft barefoot boots.
- There are several different colors to choose from, allowing for personalized style.
Consider Before Buying:
- Due to their extra-thin sole, the winter boots from Magical Shoes may not provide sufficient warmth for harsh winter conditions. It’s recommended to add an extra wool insole for added insulation.
Magical Shoes presents super lightweight and flexible barefoot boots that offer an exceptional ground feel suitable for all genders. The boots come lined with wool or thin fleece, available in suede, smooth leather, or a vegan version. While these boots deliver an amazing ground feel, for colder winter days, enhancing warmth with a wool insole is advisable.
Sizing & Fit: Magical boots are designed for narrow and medium-width feet, with the vegan boots being slightly narrower than the leather ones. The universal design, featuring a milder slope toward the little toe, accommodates various foot types. If planning to wear them with thicker socks or adding a wool insole, sizing up can provide extra width and toe space. It’s important to note that Magical Shoes uses a slightly different size chart compared to most barefoot brands. For instance, what is typically a size 42 in other brands equates to a size 44 here.
Explore More: Find out more about Magical Shoes Lupino in our review.
Lems Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather | US W6.5 – US M15 | From approx. 142€ |
Use BU10 for 10% off at Lems EU
Best for: Medium-wide feet, average instep
Why We Recommend:
- Ideal for those in search of zero-drop sole, boasting a wide toe box for minimalist boots with added cushioning and protection.
- The toe box is generously roomy, offering ample vertical space.
Consider Before Buying:
- The boots might ask for a brief break-in period. Initially, styles like Boulder boots could feel a tad stiff around the ankles, a sensation that gracefully softens with wear.
- Keep in mind, not all Lems models are zero-drop, and some feature a thicker, more cushioned sole.
- Sizing may present a bit of a puzzle.
Lems Shoes tops our recommendations for beginners and is an excellent choice for those desiring added cushioning and thermal insulation in cold, slushy, and wet winter conditions. These minimalist winter boots feature a thicker and stiffer, zero-drop sole (note that not all styles are zero-drop). They are designed with a robust and chunkier appearance while maintaining a mainstream look. The boots come in different widths, with some having a wider toe box than others.
Sizing & Fit: Lems Boulder Boots are crafted on their ‘Wide’ last, which is foot-shaped, though not the widest among all Lems models. It is best suited for medium-wide feet. For more width or to accommodate thicker socks, we strongly recommend sizing up by half a size or a full size. Lems Chelsea boots are an excellent choice for medium and wide feet, designed for those with an average instep. They can also work well for low-volume feet and skinny ankles if your feet aren’t overall narrow with low volume. Selecting the correct size with Lems can sometimes be a bit tricky; we recommend sizing up by half a size or a full size, especially if you plan to wear thicker socks.
Saguaro
| Men’s, Women’s | Vegan | EU 36 – EU 46 | From 51€ |
Use BU15 for 15% discount
Why We Recommend:
- Saguaro offers several barefoot winter boots at an affordable price.
- Perfect for anyone who would like to try barefoot shoes without spending a fortune.
- They also provide styles with more cushion for added comfort.
Consider Before Buying:
- The materials used are vegan and plastic, which may not be the most sustainable option.
- While they often have discounts, it’s worth noting that most styles sell out quickly.
Saguaro is known for being one of the most budget-friendly options in the barefoot shoe market. They frequently run sales, but due to high demand, their shoes tend to sell out rapidly. Saguaro is an ideal choice for individuals intrigued by the concept of barefoot shoes but hesitant to make a significant investment. They offer several affordable vegan boots.
Sizing & Fit: Most Saguaro models are well-suited for medium and wide feet with average foot volume, although the fit may vary from style to style. While most styles align with the size chart, there can be some differences between models. While most models boast a fully foot-shaped design, some styles may benefit from improvements in the toe box shape and space for the big toe.
Explore More: Find out more about Saguaro in our review.
Xero Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather, Vegan | Water-resistant options | EU 35.5 – EU 48 | From approx. $130 |
Best for: narrow and medium-width feet, average foot volume
Why We Recommend:
- Wide variety of styles, catering to different preferences and activities, from hiking to casual wear.
- More affordable than many other barefoot brands, with frequent sales throughout the year.
Consider Before Buying:
- Sizing can be tricky, so checking specific model recommendations is helpful.
- Some models may feel firmer underfoot compared to other barefoot brands.
Xero Shoes is known for its practical and performance-oriented barefoot boots. With styles ranging from trail-ready hiking boots to versatile, everyday options, Xero offers something for every activity. While the soles on their boots may feel firmer and slightly thicker than some other barefoot models, this adds more thermal insulation and cushioning for those who prefer extra protection. Xero Shoes is also recognized for affordability, often providing great value with quality construction at a lower price point compared to similar brands.
Sizing & Fit: Xero Shoes are available in men’s and women’s widths, with women’s styles running slightly narrower and best suited for medium-width feet. If you have slightly wider feet, sizing up can add a few extra millimeters in width. Men’s sizes are a bit wider, providing a roomier fit and ample space above the toes. Checking the size guide for each model is recommended, especially if you’re in between sizes or prefer extra room for thicker socks.
Explore More: Find out more about Xero Shoes in our review.
Bär Shoes
| Men’s, Women’s | Leather | EU 36 – EU 47 | From 159€ |
Use BU10 for 10% discount
Best for: medium-width feet, average volume
Why We Recommend:
- Exceptional quality boots designed to last for years.
- Wide range of styles, offering different sole types, designs, and widths.
Consider Before Buying:
- Limited selection of truly barefoot soles, as many models feature thicker soles with added cushioning.
Bär Shoes, established in 1984, was one of the first brands to focus on foot-shaped footwear. Known for their high-quality construction, Bär boots are built to endure for years. While all their styles feature a roomy, foot-shaped design, only a handful have genuinely barefoot soles. Most styles come with slightly thicker soles and a modest heel rise, though some models do offer thinner soles for a more grounded feel. These are ideal if you’re looking for a spacious toe box combined with extra cushioning.
Sizing & Fit: Bär Shoes are available in half sizes, making it easy to find an ideal fit across various foot lengths. They are best suited for medium-width feet. Men’s models provide additional volume above the toes and in the midfoot area. I typically go for size 8 in Bär Shoes, but for winter models, I prefer to size up by half to ensure ample space for thicker socks.
Conclusion
Alright, that wraps up our barefoot boot journey! As we’ve seen, there are plenty of great barefoot boots out there, each with its own unique style and benefits. Remember, the key is finding boots that suit your foot shape and fit your needs, whether it’s for casual wear, hiking, or braving colder days. For more tips and guidance, don’t hesitate to explore our website. Enjoy every step in comfort and style—happy walking!
