From Coffee Grounds to Footwear: Freet Review

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Are you someone who loves walking with freedom? Do you dream of finding the perfect shoe that lets your feet move naturally, almost as if you were barefoot? Are you tired of feeling pressure and restriction, longing for a shoe that allows your toes to spread and your ankles to move freely? We get it. In a world full of tight and rigid footwear, the feeling of being unchained and unrestricted is truly liberating. That’s where Freet comes in.

Freet is dedicated to crafting shoes that allow your feet to move naturally, just as if you were walking barefoot. In recent years, this brand has experienced remarkable growth, establishing itself as a beloved barefoot brand catering to wider feet. From their early days with a vegan split-toe sport shoe, they have meticulously expanded their range, taking great care with every material and design choice. Today, Freet boasts a diverse selection of styles and models for various occasions.

Behind this brand is a spirited duo, Sarah and Andrew. These two delightful individuals radiate positivity, pouring their passion and joy into every shoe they craft. It’s no surprise that Freet has gained such popularity with their exceptional team at the helm.

Their shoes are perfect for everyday wear, outdoor adventures, hiking, and nature lovers. Additionally, Freet’s shoes are easy to maintain and won’t break the bank.

Disclaimer: Please note that Barefoot Universe is reader supported. We may receive commissions on products purchased through affiliate links or affiliate codes in our content. This in no way affects our reviews or comparisons, which are based on objective analysis and our honest opinion. We appreciate your support! Learn more here.

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1. Freet Sizing

Freet shoes are available in a wide range of sizes, catering to both adults (ranging from 36-48) and kids (ranging from 30-36). It’s important to note that Freet doesn’t have a universal size chart for all models; instead, each model has its own dedicated size chart.

To ensure a perfect fit, it’s crucial to accurately measure your feet beforehand. Freet provides detailed measurements of the insoles (length and width) in their size charts. It’s worth noting that the internal lengths of different models may vary across sizes.

The extent of this variation depends on the specific model, which is why we highly recommend reviewing the sizing information for each model in our review. Personally, I typically wear size 43 in the majority of Freet models, which corresponds to a foot length of 26.3 cm.

2. Toebox shape & width

Freet shoes boast roomy and anatomically-shaped toe boxes. While Freet’s toe box shape is particularly well-suited for foot types 1, 2, and 5, it’s important to note that their design is versatile and can accommodate various foot shapes.

By selecting the optimal space in front of your toes, Freet shoes can adapt to different foot shapes. For those with square-shaped feet, we recommend choosing even more space in front of your toes—up to 18 mm instead of the recommended 12 mm to avoid touching the end of the shoe with toes.

Freet shoes are generally best suited for medium and wide feet, although it’s worth mentioning that not all their models fit the same. Some are specifically designed for wider feet with more volume, while others can be adjusted well to narrower feet. To gain a better understanding of each model’s fit, we encourage you to refer to the detailed descriptions provided under each product.

3. Sole Types

Freet offers a diverse range of sole types to accommodate various activities and terrains. They have ultra-flexible and lightweight soles specifically designed for daily use and casual walks (MultiGrip and EasyGrip), as well as more rugged soles (HillPlus) that are suitable for outdoor adventures.

Their soles deliver good ground feel and flexibility, enabling your feet to sense the ground beneath you while still providing protection from sharp objects. Additionally, most of their shoes feature removable insoles, allowing you to customize the cushioning and adjust the volume of the shoe according to your needs.

4. An overview of Freet models

Freet boasts an impressive lineup of barefoot shoe models, each with its own unique features and style. Their range includes minimalist running shoes, trail shoes, casual sneakers, and even semi-formal shoes for men, all crafted with commitment to foot-friendly design.

Nimbus

| Adults | Leather | 37-48 | 100€ |

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Nimbus, a delightful summer surprise from Freet, brings a refreshing change to the brand’s collection known for its darker shades. These classic white sneakers are made from smooth leather imitation with a mesh lining, offering a minimalistic design that appeals to both men and women. The removable insole provides minimal cushioning for a lightweight walking experience.

It’s worth noting that the collar is unpadded, which may feel slightly rough on bare skin. Therefore, we recommend wearing them with socks for added comfort.

Sizing & fit: Nimbus is best suited for medium and medium-wide feet, accommodating different instep heights. It’s important to mention that the shoes have a slightly longer fit compared to the insole measurements provided on their website (approximately 3-4 mm). As a reference, I wear size 43 with a foot length of 26.3 cm.


York

| Adults | Leather | 37-48 | 125€ |

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York, a timeless everyday shoe, is crafted from premium leather with a natural finish. Its semi-formal look is accentuated by rounded waxed laces. The thin and flexible sole, along with the removable insole, offers minimal cushioning. It’s worth noting that the heel is unlined and unpadded, adding to the shoe’s sleek design.

Sizing & fit: York is best suited for medium and medium-wide feet, accommodating various instep heights with ease. Similar to the previous model, these shoes have a slightly longer fit compared to the insole measurements provided on their website (approximately 3-4 mm). As a point of reference, I personally wear size 43 with a foot length of 26.3 cm.


Vibe

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 100€ |

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Vibe, one of our favorite releases in 2023, stands out with its upper made from recycled BottleYarn flyknit material. The available colors are black and black-grey melange, as showcased in the photos. These shoes can be worn as both athletic sneakers and everyday footwear. With a padded heel collar and a soft, pleasant feel, they provide exceptional comfort. Additionally, Vibe can be conveniently machine washed for easy maintenance.

Sizing & fit: Vibe is ideal for medium and wide feet (excluding extra-wide feet), accommodating different instep heights with ease. Similar to the previous models mentioned, these shoes have a slightly longer fit compared to the insole measurements provided on the website (approximately 3-4 mm). For reference, I personally wear size 43 with a foot length of 26.3 cm. If you require extra width, sizing up and allowing for more space in front of the toes (up to 18 mm) is a viable option.


Connect 3

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 100€ |

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Connect 3 is a versatile shoe designed for everyday wear, sports activities, running, and even hiking. Its black upper with contrasting red lining is water-resistant, making it suitable for wetter conditions. The front part of the sole is elongated around the toes to provide added protection in rugged environments.

Sizing & fit: these shoes are best suited for medium and medium-wide feet. However, if you need some extra width, sizing up is a viable option. It’s worth noting that the shoes tend to be slightly longer than the values stated in the size chart (around 10 mm in size 45). If your feet are not on the narrower side, it might be still beneficial to size up. As an example, my husband, whose feet measure 27.5 cm, wears size 45.


Feldom

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 100€ |

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Feldom is a performance barefoot shoe by Freet specifically designed for hiking and trail running, both on trails and off the beaten path. It incorporates their Hill Grip technology, featuring deep lugs that provide enhanced traction in muddy conditions. While primarily intended for outdoor activities, it can also be worn as an everyday shoe if you don’t mind the deeper lugs.

Sizing & fit: these shoes are best suited for medium and medium-wide feet. However, if you need some extra width, sizing up is a viable option. It’s worth noting that the shoes tend to be slightly longer than the values stated in the size chart (around 10 mm in size 45). If your feet are not on the narrower side, it might be still beneficial to size up. As an example, my husband, whose feet measure 27.5 cm, wears size 45.


Leap 2 4+1

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 80€ |

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Leap 2 4+1 is truly a unique and distinctive shoe that may take some time to get accustomed to its appearance at first glance. What sets them apart is the separate pocket designed specifically for the big toe, allowing for unrestricted movement. Although they may appear unconventional, they provide an incredibly comfortable fit and wearing them feels absolutely amazing. The thin and breathable upper, along with elastic laces for easy on-off, adds to the overall pleasure of wearing them.

Sizing & fit: it’s important to note that Leap 2 4+1 runs slightly short. It is advisable to refer to their size chart before making a purchase. For example, while I typically wear size 43 in most Freet styles (or size 42 in other barefoot brands), I find that I need size 44 or even size 45 for this particular model. If your feet are more square-shaped or wider, it’s recommended to size up by one size from the recommended measurement. Conversely, if your feet are on the narrow side with a stronger slope towards the pinky toe, following the size chart and allowing approximately 12 mm of space in front of the toes should be suitable.


Bootee M

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 110€ |

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The Bootee M is an excellent vegan bootie crafted from water-repellent BreatheMesh material. Versatile in nature, these booties are suitable for everyday wear or more relaxed hikes. To ensure durability and protection, a layer of protective rubber has been added to the front.

When it comes to comfort and customization, the Bootee M doesn’t disappoint. The insoles are removable, allowing you to adjust the cushioning according to your preference.

Sizing & fit: the Bootee M is primarily designed for wide feet. However, thanks to their thoughtful design, they also offer a secure fit for those with narrower feet and ankles. They are well-suited for different foot volumes, accommodating various foot shapes.

It’s important to note that the shoes tend to be approximately 3-4 mm longer than the measurements provided in the size charts. Taking this into account, if you plan on wearing thicker socks, it may be advisable to size up. For instance, if your foot length is 26.3 cm, like mine, you would typically wear a size 44 with an internal length of 28 cm.

You can read a detailed review of the Bootee M model here.


Citee

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 95€ |

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Citee is the ideal casual shoe for any man seeking easy maintenance and exceptional comfort. Its water-resistant microfiber upper ensures effortless cleaning, making it a practical choice for various occasions. From office settings to everyday wear, Citee strikes the perfect balance.

Sizing & fit: Citee is best suited for feet with wider ankles, heels, or overall volume. However, if you have lower insteps and skinny ankles, these shoes may not be the most suitable option for you. With the included insoles, they offer great comfort even for those who prefer minimal cushioning and shock absorption.

Please note that Citee shoes run slightly longer compared to the measurements provided in the size chart (internal length of size 44 is 28.3 cm). However, if your feet are wider, it is also possible to size up for a more comfortable fit. For example, the man shown in the right photo, with a foot length of 26.5 cm, is wearing size 44.


Flex

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 85€ |

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The Flex is one of our favorite models from Freet and is an awesome, affordable option for those seeking a sport shoe for everyday wear, running, or the gym. These shoes can even be thrown in the washing machine with no problems!

Sizing & fit: the Flex is one of the most versatile models from Freet. They can be adjusted well for those with low and high insteps (although they may not be the best choice for high insteps with narrow heels). The toe box part is generous and provides plenty of space for your toes to move around.

Additionally, it’s essential to note that these shoes are approximately 3-4 mm longer than the values stated in their size chart. For instance, my foot length is 26.3 cm, and I wear size 43 (internal length 27.5 cm), which fits me perfectly. The Flex is also available in Junior sizes.



Ibex in Tundra

| Adults | Vegan or leather | 37-48 | 145€, 200€ |

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The Ibex and Tundra models are perfect options for those seeking a barefoot shoe for hiking and outdoor activities. Both models feature the same design and sole, with the only difference being the material used for the upper, which also affects the price. The Ibex is made of high-quality smooth brown leather, which feels pleasant to the touch, while the Tundra is a vegan model made from hydrophobic microfiber. Both models are easy to clean and maintain. Please note that the leather version, Ibex, is more breathable, while the vegan version may cause your feet to sweat faster.

Their HillGrip sole has a bigger tread that was specifically developed for more demanding routes. It provides excellent grip when walking on steep slopes and wet leaves – it has been proven! However, please be aware that walking on asphalt can cause the sole to wear down faster compared to their Multigrip sole, which is great for walking on natural surfaces.

Sizing & fit: it is advised to size up in this model due to its thicker lining, as it may feel narrower than other Freet models in the same size. Unless you have narrow feet, choosing a size up would be recommended. Please also note that these shoes are approximately 3-4 mm longer than the internal lengths given in the size chart. For example, with my foot length of 26.3 cm, I choose size 44 with an internal length of 28.5 cm. While the shoes are more than 2 cm longer than my foot, the extra length does not bother me while walking. It’s worth mentioning that some space in the shoe is lost due to the shape of the heel cup, which leaves some empty space behind the heel. This additional space for the toes is also beneficial when walking downhill.

This model may feel narrower than other Freet models, so it may not be ideal for those with very wide feet. For narrower feet, it is suggested to choose your regular space in front of your toes. If you have slightly wider feet, selecting a size bigger would be advisable.

These shoes provide a secure fit for narrower ankles and heels, and are also suitable for average ankle and instep heights. However, they may not be the best option for high-volume feet. The heel cup may seem a little harder initially, but it softens with wear.


Kidepo

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 110€ |

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The Kidepo is a wonderful hiking bootie that’s perfect for warmer days. It is made from a breathable FlyKnit upper that’s 100% recycled from coffee grounds. These shoes feel light on your feet, making hiking a joy. The ankles are only partly covered, enabling proper movement of the ankle joints.

Sizing & fit: the Kidepo is an ideal fit for shallow feet with skinny ankles and heels, and a wide front part. They can also be adjusted well for wider ankles and heels. The toe box is wide (best suited ofr medium-wide feet), but if your feet are extra wide and have a lot of volume around the ball of the foot, then these shoes may not be suitable for you. However, they can be an excellent fit even for narrower feet with narrow heels and ankles.

Please note that the internal length is longer than the values stated in the size chart. For instance, size 43 is 13 mm longer than the internal length given in the size chart. While I wear a size 43 (internal length 28.3 cm, foot length 26.3 cm), sizing down would also be an option.


Mudee

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 130€ |

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The Mudee vegan bootie is made from hydrophobic microfiber material. They are suitable for colder days, but during warmer parts of the year, your feet may sweat excessively in them. These boots can be used for everyday wear as well as hiking. However, they are not the best choice for snowy conditions as they are low and snow can easily enter from the top, despite having great waterproofness.

The vegan materials are very easy to clean and maintain. Initially, they may feel a little bulky around the ankles and over the instep, but as the material softens, they become more comfortable to wear. The only complaint we have is that untying the laces while walking can be a bit bothersome.

Sizing & fit: this model runs small, so it is recommended to size up in order to have enough space, especially if you plan to wear them with thicker socks. They are a great fit for different foot volumes and widths, and can be adjusted well for skinny ankles and narrower feet.


Pace

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 100€ |

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The Pace is the model with the most cushioning among all Freet shoes. The total stack height, including the insole, is 10 mm. This makes them suitable for those who prefer more cushioning and they are perfect for beginners as well. They are made from CoffeeFlyMesh (SCafe) upper, which is constructed from 100% recycled coffee grounds, making them perfect for warmer days.

Sizing & fit: they fit well for different foot volumes. However, if your feet are shallow, you won’t be able to wear them without the insole. On the other hand, if your feet are high volume, removing the insole can provide you with some extra space that you may need.

The size chart with internal lengths on Freet’s website will give you the correct measurements for this model. It’s important to note that this model runs short, so you will probably need to go one size bigger than what you are used to wearing in other models or brands. For example, I need size 44 (with an internal length of 27.5 cm) in this model.


Arken

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 100€ |

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Arken stands out as one of Freet’s most suitable options for winter, crafted from water-resistant BottleYarn recycled upper material and lined with microfibre freeze to keep the cold at bay. Its tongue is gusseted, enhancing its resistance to water. This model does feel a bit firmer around the ankles compared to other Freet booties, though the material tends to soften over time. However, you might still experience a bit more restriction in this area initially.

Sizing & Fit: Arken is best suited for medium to medium-wide feet. The thicker lining means the boots have a lower volume interior, making them less ideal for those with high-volume feet. If you have higher-volume feet, the Esk model from Freet might be a better fit, as it accommodates higher volumes more comfortably. For reference, I wear size 43, matching my foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm.


Esk

| Adults | Leather | 37-48 | 160€ |

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Esk shares the same sole type as Arken but stands out with its distinct upper material, lining, and fit. Crafted from brown smooth leather and featuring an elasticated collar, Esk boasts a gusseted tongue, enhancing its suitability for various activities. These boots are an excellent choice for everyday wear or even hiking, thanks to laces that provide good adjustability without restricting ankle movement.

Sizing & Fit: Esk boots are ideally suited for medium and wide feet with higher volume. My own low-volume feet felt somewhat lost in them, leading to noticeable material creasing. However, I managed to achieve a decent fit through lace adjustment, even if the creasing didn’t enhance their appearance. For reference, I wear size 43, in line with my foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm.


Swale

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 160€ |

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The Swale sneakers by Freet are among the brand’s most minimalist offerings. Crafted from a thin, breathable material, these shoes are exceptionally light and airy, perfect for those seeking minimal interference between their feet and the ground. The material not only dries quickly when wet but also allows for comfortable wear, with or without socks, without leading to sweaty feet.

Sizing & Fit: The thin material of the Swale sneakers makes them feel longer than most other styles in the same size, leading to the recommendation to size down one size from your usual Freet size. For reference, while I opted for size 43, a smaller size would have been a better match for my foot dimensions of 26.3/10 cm. These sneakers are adaptable to various foot volumes, enhancing their versatility.


Richmond

| Adults | Leather | 37-48 | 130€ |

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The Richmond is an all-year leather unisex classic dress boot made from full grain leather upper. It is perfect for everyday wear in spring and autumn.

Sizing & fit: the Richmond has one of the most generous fits among all Freet shoes. It fits best for those with wider ankles and heels, but it is not suitable for shallow feet and skinny ankles. These boots are best suited for medium-wide and wide feet, but not for extra wide feet.

Please note that the internal length is approximately 3-4mm longer than the values provided in the size chart, so keep this in mind when choosing your perfect size.


Talus 3

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 70€ |

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The Talus 3 is Freet’s multipurpose slip-on shoe. It’s the shoe I keep by the door for taking out the trash, picking up the mail, or when I prefer to wear something easy to slip on and off around the house. I still have their Talus 2 model (see photo below), which has been updated with the Talus 3 model that provides more space above the toes.

Sizing & fit: the Talus is perfect for those with low to average height instep, and it is wide at the toes, providing plenty of space to move. The Talus shoe is slightly longer compared to the values provided in the size chart (approximately 6-7 mm in size 42), so keep this in mind when choosing the right size.

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Tanga

| Adults | Vegan | 37-48 | 95€ |

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The Tanga is one of Freet’s most minimalist shoes. The CoffeeFlyMesh (SCafe) upper, made from 100% recycled coffee grounds, is made from a single piece, and wearing them feels like putting on your socks. They feel very light and minimalistic on your feet.

Sizing & fit: they can be adjusted well to different heights of the instep, but they are best suited for those with a average instep. Shallow feet may have some extra material left when tying the laces. If you find tied elastic laces uncomfortable to wear, you can swap them with regular laces, which are included in the box.

Please note that shoes are approximately 5-7mm longer than the values provided in their size chart. For example, the internal length of size 42 is 27cm.

5. Where and how to buy?

Freet has separate websites for the EU, US, and UK. You can easily switch between the countries at the top of their website. In addition, their EU website is available in several different languages.

While Freet is located in the UK, they have local warehouses for the EU and US to ensure quick and smooth delivery without any extra costs.

The shipping costs depend on the shipping country, and all returns are made to their local warehouses. Overall, the experience with ordering and returning their shoes is smooth and easy.

6. Conclusion

Freet is a great brand that’s absolutely worth checking out. Whether you prefer vegan materials or authentic leather, you can find plenty of options to suit your tastes. Clearly, Freet stands out as one of the best barefoot shoe brands, and we’re happy to recommend them to anyone looking for affordable, quality barefoot shoes.

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