The 10 Best Barefoot Boots for Everyday Fall & Winter

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A row of stylish barefoot boots for everyday fall & winter lined up on concrete with one being worn by a person and the text "The 10 Best barefoot boots, anya's reviews" written over the image in white
The 10 best barefoot boot brands for men and women fall 2023

I’ve tried hundreds of barefoot boots in all different styles – but which ones do I reach for over and over? In this article I share my top ten favorites that I wear all season long. So read on to see the best barefoot boots for every day wear!

Why Are Barefoot Boots Important?

A collage of a woman and a man wearing different styles and brands of barefoot boots for fall and winter to show which ones are the best

Do you free your feet in the summer by going barefoot, but then stuff those toesies back into clunky boots when it gets cold? It doesn’t need to be so! There are barefoot boot options that let your feet move naturally, and still protect you from the elements – your feet and body will thank you!

You can learn more here about how shoes affect the body and why barefoot shoes might be right for you.

This list is our personal tried-and-true favorite barefoot boots for everyday wear in fall and winter. Keep in mind that your foot type will affect what works best for YOU (learn more about your foot type and how to measure here). That’s why I’ve shared helpful sizing info so you can shop easily!

For even more barefoot boot options, check my other lists below.

Now let’s get to it! Here are my top ten favorite barefoot boots in order of most worn to least worn in our house. And while some photos here are of feminine boots, every brand listed offers unisex and masculine styles as well.


Be Lenka

Leather | Sizes 36-47 | Available at:

Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off at Be Lenka (returns only accepted from within the EU and USA)
Many boot models will also available at Anya’s Shop (US) starting early September

What I love About Them: Out of all my barefoot boots, I wear my Be Lenka’s most often during the cold season. They look fancier than my Dingo boots (read about those delightful boots later) and I still feel totally comfortable and pain free. They also have durable soles for winter weather/hiking and waterproof options, so they really meet my practical needs.

Be Lenka has so many different barefoot boot styles, and I love all of them – the quality is always top notch. They’re my go to when I need something functional that has plenty of space for my toes. Just be aware that the sole on Be Lenka boots is a little heftier than you might be used to with barefoot shoes.

Several beautiful new boot styles are coming throughout the fall!

Sizing & Fit Type: Be Lenka barefoot boots have a square shape to them and are excellent for people with wide feet. They have a medium volume fit in most models, but ones with wool lining tend to fit snug and people often size up (this is par for the course with lined boots). I find them to be quite versatile in fit for a wide variety of people.

Be Lenka outsole shape 2023 showing the extra wide toe box on the top down plus the overall outsole shape on the zero drop sole

You can read my in-depth Be Lenka Barefoot reviews here!


Peerko

Leather & Vegan | Sizes EU 37-45 | Available At:

Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off directly from Peerko! But please note that Peerko doesn’t accept returns outside the EU.

Also available at Anya’s Shop in the US with worldwide shipping (and returns are accepted).

What I Love About Them: Peerko boots were instant love as soon as I laid eyes on them. They are one of the most stylish barefoot boots I’ve ever seen, not to mention they’re lightweight and have a wide forefoot. A real crowd pleaser!

The side zipper on the tall Empire and shorter Go boots make them so easy to put on and I am have so much fun styling them. You can find Peerko boots lined with leather, fleece, or wool depending on the warmth you want. I use Renapur’s on them to keep the leather sleek and shiny through the season.

Besides being high quality and comfortable, Peerko is one of the few brands that look equally nice on both men and women. This Fall 2023 season Peerko will release a vegan version of several boots too.

Sizing & Fit Type: Peerko boots are a little wider than your average barefoot shoe brand and allow for plenty of toe space. They tend to work well for a lot of different foot shapes and volumes! I am wearing my usual size in Peerko, but I size up in the wool lined Frost (which I always do in boots with warm linings!).

Peerko outsole collage for 2023 showing a top down toe box view plus the overall outsole shape
Peerko Sole Shape

Vivobarefoot

Leather | Sizes US W 5.5- M 15 | Available at:

Use code VBANYA20 for 20% off until Dec. 31 2023.
Check here for your nearest Vivobarefoot retailer.

What I Love About Them: The Vivobarefoot Gobi boots were my very first barefoot winter boot back in 2017 and I wore the heck out of them! They wore like a dream, and I love that Vivobarefoot boots look mainstream. My two favorites are Gobi and the Geo Chelsea. The current Gobi boot comes in men’s and women’s and is super soft (see them in action here). The Chelsea boots (both Geo and Gobi) come in women’s only and feels a little more structured and stiff, but break in with wear. All have grippy outsoles.

I learned the hard way that ALL Vivobarefoot boots aren’t very warm unless you swap out the insole for a better one (I use sheepskin). But the leather uppers are really high quality and we’ve had great luck with our pairs.

Sizing & Fit Type: In general Vivobarefoot boots fit an average width and are low to medium volume. Men’s models are several millimeters wider than Women’s, so if you have wide feet I suggest ordering Men’s. I size up in the waterproof boots for extra space (Tracker FG & Snow), otherwise I wear my typical size. For model specific sizing, check out my in-depth Vivobarefoot Reviews.

A collage showing the outsole shape of Vivobarefoot barefoot boots for fall winter. One side shows the top down view of the Gobi boot in limestone cream, and the other side shows the outsole shape.
Vivobarefoot Sole Shape

Mukishoes

Leather, Wool & Vegan Options | Sizes EU 36-48 | Available from

Use code ANYAMUKI for 10% off from Mukishoes, or find the chelsea at Anya’s Shop

What I Love About Them: Mukishoes is another extremely flexible and lightweight barefoot shoe brand with genuine ground feel. While not quite as flexible or “second-skin” like as Wildling shoes, they are more mainstream looking so I end up reaching for my Mukishoes a ton throughout the season. They feel so great and also look fashionable!

You can find Mukishoes barefoot boots seasonally, usually around September each year. They have high top sneakers, wool lined combat boots, chelsea boots and I love all of them!

Sizing & Fit Type: Mukishoes has an average width toe box, but the flexible outsole and soft upper accommodates many wider feet.

For me the chelsea boots fit slightly smaller than other brands (because the ankle opening pushes your foot a little forward) but the lace ups are pretty true to size. This is a brand that works great for high volume feet, so I wear an insole in all of my pairs because I have low arches and skinny ankles.

Top down and outsole on Mukishoes barefoot stylish chelsea boots

Read my in-depth Mukishoes reviews here!


Wildling Shoes

Textile and Wool Options | Sizes EU 18-48 | Available from:

What I Love About Them: Wilding Shoes is another brand that makes me giddy. All of their models are fabric with an extremely flexible sole and hands down the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn! You wouldn’t expect it because of how lightweight they are, but the winter models from Wilding are fairly warm and my kids and I always end up wearing them as often as possible. The reason Wildling’s barefoot boots are 3rd on this list and not first is because the laces take a little extra time to do and they are very casual looking (But my husband will be wearing his North Wolf boots to work this winter!).

Sizing & Fit Type: I highly recommend you consult their size finder when ordering instead of ordering your usual size. Each model comes with a specific fit guide, so make sure you read that as well. Typically Wildlings cater to an average width foot, but there are always a few that work for extra wide feet.

You can expect your Wildling Shoes to have a squared off toe box so the outer toes don’t get squished and a flexible outsole that can adapt to a wide variety of foot shapes. They do tend to fit high volume feet best – if you have shallow feet I would recommend getting the wool insole for a better fit (works great for us!).

P.S. Some people are surprised by how long their Wildings are – this is intentional and as long as the shoe is secure and not flopping the extra length shouldn’t be an issue.

Wildling Shoes Outsole shape 2023 collage showing a top view of the toe box and the outsole with a plateau shape
Wildling Sole Shape

Read my in-depth Wildling Shoes Reviews here!


Groundies

Leather | Sizes EU 36-48 | Available At:

We will have many styles available this fall at Anya’s Shop! We expect them to start arriving in October.

What I Love About Them: Groundies does stylish barefoot boots for men and women very well. They have a few different available outsole types, but my two favorites for boots are the GO1 and the GX1. The GO1 is very flexible and has the widest fit, while the GX1 is a little thicker and more rugged – which can be nice for boots in the cold season. Both are high quality and long lasting.

Be aware that Groundies has three different toe box shapes – Regular, Barefoot, and Barefoot+ (extra wide). The “Regular” is tapered and a more traditional shape, so I recommend filtering by Barefoot or Barefoot+ so all you see are the foot shaped options. This fall some popular boot models, like the Camden and Odessa, will be released in the Barefoot+ width!

Sizing & Fit Type: Groundies Barefoot models have an average width, but their Barefoot+ line is extra wide and runs a little longer in length than the same size in Barefoot width. Sizing is true and consistent otherwise, so not too many surprises between styles. The boots fit medium volume, but can often work for both high and low volume. I wear a size 37 in Groundies boots unless I plan to wear warm socks.

Top down and outsole view of Groundies Barefoot sole shape
Groundies Barefoot Sole Shape

For more in-depth info on Groundies check out my other reviews!


Zeazoo Dingo

Sheepskin | Sizes EU 35-42 (+ custom sizes) | Available at:

Get 5% off your purchase with code ANYASREVIEWS
Also at Anya’s Shop in the US (full restock expected late September/early October).

What I Love About Them: Hands down my most comfortable barefoot boot is the Zeazoo Dingo – They feel like slippers and look like Ugg boots! I like that they are so light but still dang warm and slip on easily. And it’s not just me who loves them, they have been extremely popular at Anya’s Shop and around the world for people in all climates. They’re a dream!

But because of the sole type, they’re not great at keeping snow and water out and not as durable as some of the other options here. For me they are the perfect walking and quick-errands boot in the winter, but if you tend to drag your feet or kick curbs you might bust a seam.

New for 2023 is the pretty chestnut color in the above right photo! It’s gorgeous!

Sizing & Fit Type: The Zeazoo Dingo has a wide straight fit and a plateau shaped toe box. They run big and many people size down (especially because the thick lining tamps down with use).

They are generous around the ankle and arch, so work well for high volume feet – but I did fine in them with my low volume feet and skinny ankles after sizing down one from my normal size. I also wear thick socks in them to bunch up around the ankle for a little more security. If you need bigger than a size 42 you can request a custom size from Zeazoo.

Top down and Outsole for Zeazoo Dingo, super practical and warm barefoot Ugg dupes.

For more details, read my review of the Zeazoo Dingo here!


Softstar Shoes

Sheepskin | Sizes 5U-15U | Available at:

What I Love About Them: The Softstar Phoenix (above right) is a super high quality sheepskin boot, the best I’ve ever seen, and they keep my feet toasty warm. The side zip makes them easy to take on and off, and I reach for them frequently on cold days. They are heavier than the other boots I’ve listed so far because of the thickness of the fur, but they will last forever.

Softstar also makes the Switchback boot (above left), which you can read about in my Best Barefoot Hiking Boots roundup. Some people wear it as an everyday boot, but the tread is so deep that I prefer it only for hiking. This one is a good option for people with extra wide feet.

Sizing & Fit Type: Phoenix boots fit average to wide feet in width, but can stretch to fit extra wide feet. The sheepskin fluff is thick and so they feel really snug at first and I would recommend sizing up one. I have a size 7U, or women’s 8, and my feet hang over the edge slightly.

a photo comparing the outsole and toe box shape of the Softstar phoenix barefoot winter boot
Softstar Phoenix Sole Shape

For in-depth sizing information, check out my other Softstar Shoes Reviews!


Shapen Barefoot

Leather or Vegan | Sizes EU 35-47 | Available at:

Use code ANYA5 for 5% off directly from Shapen (returns are not accepted outside the EU) or shop Shapen at Anya’s Shop in the US.

What I Love About Them: Shapen Barefoot makes gorgeous barefoot dress shoes for women, they’re a godsend for people who need to get fancy but can’t fit into other barefoot shoe brands! But they also have stylish everyday options for both men & women too. And this Fall 2023 Shapen is adding many more gorgeous styles in the full size range throughout September and October. I had a chance to try them on this summer and we’ll be carrying many of them this fall at Anya’s Shop!

I love them as stylish comfortable, and warm barefoot boots. I don’t think they’ll be super practical for snow or hiking, but as a lifestyle boot brand Shapen is excellent.

Sizing & Fit: Shapen boots have a wide to extra wide fit and fit on the bigger side. I often size up to a 38 in boots, but don’t need to in my Shapen. If you like the width of Be Lenka but want something softer and lighter, Shapen is the brand.

They also tend to fit higher volume. The Cozy boot, shown below, fits my foot type best, but I am able to wear all Shapen’s boots if I add an extra insole (because I have such shallow arches). I wear my normal size in them and have plenty of space.

You can read more in-depth information about these boots in my Shapen Barefoot Boot review.

Shapen Barefoot Outsole Shape 2023 collage showing the top down toe box shape and outsole shape
Shapen Barefoot Sole Shape

Xero Shoes

Leather or Synthetic | Sizes US Women’s 5 – Men’s 15 | Available at:

What I Love About Them: Xero Shoes makes several practical barefoot boots for fall and winter that work wonderfully for Justin’s foot type. He especially loves the Denver boot. But they cater to an average to narrow toe box width and a wide midfoot, which means they aren’t a great brand for my foot type.

But they are a favorite for people who are new to barefoot shoes because they tend to have a lower price point than other brands and a wide range of options. They also have a huge fall/winter sale that’s worth checking out!

Sizing & Fit: We find Xero to run true to size mostly for Justin, but I size up more often than not in their boots. In general when a boot is waterproof or lined it fits more snugly, so if you have wide feet I would also suggest sizing up in Xero. They also fit fairly high volume.

Top down and Outsole shape for Xero Shoes

Read my in-depth Xero Shoes reviews here!


Lems Shoes

Leather or Textile | Sizes US Womens 6.5 – Mens 15 | Available at:

What I Love About Them: Lems Shoes has some really great barefoot boots with a little bit more cushion than the other brands listed here. We especially love the Chelsea boot and the Telluride for extra wide feet, and the new Boulder Boulder Boot Grip. Several come in waterproof options too!

The thicker sole makes Lems a good brand for people who want thicker soles on their shoes, and I also love that Lems have a lot of vertical space above the big toe. Plus, the look is classic and cool. Justin and I both love our Lems!

Note that a few Lems shoes are not zero drop nor have a wide toe box, but I linked above to their barefoot-friendly options.

Sizing & Fit: In our experience Lems shoes run on the smaller side and I usually go up a whole size in my Lems boots. They fit a lot of different foot shapes and volumes, which is great. But if you have extra wide feet I would recommend choosing from their widest sole shape options.

a top down view of a pair of feet standing on concrete. Left foot is wearing Lems Chelsea boots in Cedar, right foot is bare, showing that the boots have an anatomical foot shape
Lems Boots Sole Shape

For more details you can watch my YouTube review of the Lems Boulder Boot here!


Runner Ups

The above are my top ten most worn barefoot boot brands for every day, but there are some other really great barefoot shoes that deserve a mention. And depending on your foot type and preferences, they might be perfect for you!

Zaqq Barefoot

Leather & Vegan Options | Sizes EU 37-48 | Available at:

You can find select styles at Anya’s Shop in the US with worldwide shipping available!

What I Love About Them: Zaqq barefoot boots look amazing (they honestly have the widest selection of barefoot boots I’ve ever seen) and they are still soft and comfortable on foot. My personal favorites are the Riquet boots (shown above right). They are a wonderful blend of mainstream style with really soft, flexible soles. They would be in the top ten if they weren’t so hard for us to keep in stock at Anya’s Shop and easier to order from Zaqq in Germany.

Sizing & Fit Type: Zaqq shoes are pretty much smack in the middle in terms of fit. Slightly wider than Vivobarefoot, they fit an average to wide feet, medium volume. The main thing to be aware of is that some of their dress models have a more tapered toe box, so you need to be careful about that. For example, ballet flats, men’s dress shoes, and the Qlance boot are pretty narrow. But the vast majority of their shoes have a natural shape to them.

Read my in-depth review of the Zaqq Barefoot brand for more info, including how to place an order if you’re in the US.

Top down and Outsole view for Zaqq Barefoot shoes

Crave & Angles

Leather | Sizes EU 37-46 | Available at:

If purchasing from Angles directly you can use code ANYA for 5% off your purchase (EU only). We will have a limited selection of the Angles chelsea boots at Anya’s Shop this fall.

What I Love About Them: The barefoot boots from Crave and Angles Fashion were an unexpected favorite of mine. They have a nice wide toe box, soft inner lining, and classic styling. I wear them often in the fall and winter, because they’re so comfortable and match all my outfits.

Both brands are run by the same parent company, but have a different outsole and shape to them.

Sizing & Fit Type: The warm lined models from Angles fit snug, and I sized up to a 38 in them which worked perfectly. They fit like a glove, and I wear medium weight socks with them. They are great for wide and extra wide feet and fit a medium volume height. The non-lined models are more true to size, but consult their size chart to double check. Crave has a similar fit but wider in the toe box.

Read my Angles Fashion review here!

Outsole Shape side by side for Angles and Crave barefoot shoes
Crave Outsole (left), Angles Outstole (right)

Feelgrounds

Feelgrounds is an all vegan brand with a couple boot option! The Patrol is lined with fleece, and they come with both a fleece and a cork insole. They also come with a grippy outsole for all-weather conditions, and are gusseted up to the ankle for waterproof-ness. They’re entirely vegan and have a pretty thick sole that some people find stiff. But for wintery weather they are practical! You can also find a chelsea boot in several colors from Feelgrounds.

A top down view of a woman with low volume feet wearing one Feelgrounds Patrol winter boot.
Feelgrounds Sole Shape

Read all my Feelgrounds Review here


Ahinsa

Ahinsa boots really light, flexible, and have a wide forefoot – just what I like in a boot. They are also all 100% vegan. The uppers are naturally water resistant, and they wear really well. I have yet to see any scuffs or fading of the material even after lots of winter use. I wish the Jaya had a side zipper, I’d wear them a lot more often if they did. But overall I am happy with them.

Ahinsa shoes run a teensy bit shorter than most other barefoot boots, so I am kind of in between a 37 & 38. Both my Ahinsa barefoot boots are a size 37, but I wish I had gotten a 38 in the Winter model that has a fleece lining. The “Comfort” models from Ahinsa are all the same as the Barefoot ones, they just come with an insole that add a small heel lift and arch support (wouldn’t be truly barefoot with this).

Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off. The Jaya can be purchased through Anya’s Shop

Top down and Outsole for Ahinsa barefoot shoes

Freet Barefoot

Freet Barefoot is my husband’s current favorite barefoot shoe brand – they work well for wide, thick feet. I like the Richmond boot, which looks like a simple desert boot. The only reason Freet is here in the runner up section is that the styles are very utilitarian and I don’t end up reaching for them very often because they don’t always match my wardrobe. But they have some very practical boots for wide feet, including some great vegan options! You can read my thoughts on the Mudee boot here.

Use code AR-10 for 10% off

Top down and Outsole shape on Freet Barefoot shoes

Read my Freet review here!


Magical Shoes

Magical Shoes is a Polish brand that makes super flexible barefoot shoes. Their boots are super comfortable and lined with warm wool or fleece. They also have a lot of vertical toe space, so they tend to be a home run when it comes to the comfort for a lot of people. I find their sneakers and boots run quite small, so I recommend sizing up one in them.

Use code ANYA for 10% off

Top down and Outsole shape for Magical Shoes barefoot boots

Jenon Leather

Jenon Leather Snowflake boots are warm, cozy, and fit my fan-shaped foot really well. This brand can customize the shape and fit as well if you have trouble finding boots that fit. Everything from Jenon is handmade to order, so plan ahead! The Yeans model is an everyday leather lined boot that looks great as well. This is a great brand if you want some color or prints you don’t normally see in barefoot boots.

Close up of Snowflake boots outsole from Jenon Leather, the close up boot is behind held by a hand, and the other boot can be seen in the background on snowy ground
Jenon Leather Sole Shape

Read our full Jenon Leather Review here


Luks Barefoot

Luks Barefoot makes supremely soft, flexible, and wide barefoot boots that many people absolutely adore. Comfort-wise, my Primavera boots are fabulous and I’m always feeling great in them. But I don’t end up wearing them as often because the height of them hits me at an awkward place. I wish they were either shorter or taller! They also have a really long wait time because every pair is handmade to high standards. Overall they’re an excellent brand, and if they match your foot shape and style then don’t hesitate!

Top down and Outsole shape on Luks Barefoot shoes

Read my in-depth Luks reviews here.


Koel

Koel (previously a kids’ brand) has recently added several lovely women’s styles. They fit an average foot best and are medium to low low volume. I don’t need any fit hacks to get a good fit, but they are only just wide enough.

I particularly like the Flora lace-up boots below! Koel does ship to the US from Portugal, but you can also find them at Mugavik Barefoot and use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Mugavik is where I bought my pairs, because they are much more responsive and I felt confident ordering from them.

A man and woman standing with their arms around each other in a cafe wearing winter attire. The man in wearing Xero Glenn barefoot shoes and the woman is in knee high black lace up boots from Koel

The Drifter Leather

The Drifter Leather is quite a process to order from – they accept orders only once a month or so and fulfillment can take months, but my barefoot boots from them are to die for. Extremely light, flexible, and perfectly formed to my foot BUT STILL A MAINSTREAM BOOT STYLE. Can you tell I’m excited? If you’re considering a pair, make sure you check out my Guide to Ordering from the Drifter Leather for a full run down of the process, and then head to their website to subscribe for updates.

Click here for a full list of barefoot shoe brands that do custom work.

Top down and Outsole shape for custom boots from The drifter Leather

As you can see, there are so many options in different styles and shapes that you’re sure to find a healthy barefoot boot that works for you! And don’t forget, I have tons of other resources here to help you find the barefoot shoe of your dreams, so stick around!

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Comments

106 thoughts on “The 10 Best Barefoot Boots for Everyday Fall & Winter”

  1. When will companies start releasing fall 2023 styles? I’m headed to the UK for three weeks at the beginning of October, and I’m looking for the perfect boot to dress up or down, wear in the rain, and that can hold up to hiking. Not a huge fan of synthetic/vegan materials. I prefer leather and wool. My Vivobarefoot Fulhams are worn nearly everyday from October to March. Help!

    1. It really depends on the brand. Be Lenka fall stuff is already coming in and we’ll have ours available by mid-August. Lots of stuff comes out in September too. But unfortunately it’s hard to predict and can be very variable.

    2. I’m looking for a wide to extra wide Chelsea boot that works for high insteps and large ankles too. I see you posted some brown Shapen Chelsea boots with a buckle that will be coming out in September. Do you know if those are wide and suitable for high insteps and large ankles? Do you know if they will be available in different colors? Or if they are slip resistant? Thank you so much!

      1. I think you’re referring to the Ivy! It will be restocked in September but it’s actually been around for a few years (you can check out the sold out product listing on their website and in Anya’s Shop to see more images). They are quite wide and high volume. The ankle opening is pretty wide, but it can feel a little hard against skin so some people with extra thick ankles don’t like that. They come in black and brown. The outsole is pretty typical for a lifestyle boot, not especially slip- resistant but also not slick.

        1. Thank you, I checked out the ivy but that’s not the boot I saw you post. It’s one of their new boots coming in September. The owner from Shapen tried it on in brown and in a cream color. Would you say that boot has the same or similar fit to the Ivy? Thanks again!

          1. Oh with a buckle and wrap around strap detail? We are carrying those this fall as well in all 3 colors – black, brown, and cream. Actually that was the one boot I didn’t try on myself because she only had it in one size when I visited. From looking at it in person and on her foot I would guess that it would fit similarly to the Ivy.

  2. Have you ever reviewed Gea Waldviertler shoe/boots? They have really beautiful shoes with a lot of width options and a natural foot shape but I can’t really find a lot of reviews on them. Not strictly a minimalist brand but they have a lot of zero-drop shoe models with some flex to them. Just asking because I’m tempted to take the plunge!

  3. I’m a barefoot beginner. I have been wearing altra runners at work (hospital) with orthotics but I am looking for a beginner friendly boot that I can transition out of my orthotics but also is sort of a one and done boot. I need them to be water resistant and will take me from an hour walking the dog on Gravel to the city. My previous boots were blundstones but they are you narrow and I continue to get 1st metatarsal pain if I wear them. I have looked at the patrol light, I also like the looks of the groundies camden chelsea boot and the perrko go is pretty nice as well. Any thoughts?? It’s a bit overwhelming. P.s. I live in western Canada (BC) so the falls can get chilly. Thank you!

    1. I think you would like the Lems waterproof Chelsea. It is everything you are looking for! you can read my review of them here. I also think the Patrol Lite would work well for you, but I’m a little more partial to the Lems Chelsea. I find them more comfortable.

      1. Hi Anya, I recently ordered the Lems Chelsea and while they are comfortable I don’t love the more casual look with the front loop. Do you know of a boot that looks more like the Patrol Lite or Feelgrounds Chelsea that is leather, a little more polished than the Lems Chelsea, and has a slightly thicker sole like Lems? I need more padding than most barefoot shoes provide (to avoid aggravating a neuroma), but want zero drop and a wider toe box. It sometimes feels like an impossible quest as most shoes that fit this criteria are super casual (like Altras, Flux, or Lems) and not as cute as the shoes I used to wear to work!

        1. Hi Christy, you might want to look at Conker Shoes. They have thicker soled chelsea boots that look more polished. You also can experiment with adding cushioned insoles. It will likely require sizing up so you have the space for it, but it can open up a lot more options to you.

  4. Thanks for this article. Can you recommend any barefoot boots that aren’t insulated or warm? I’d like some boots for style reasons, but I want to keep my feet as cool as I can. Thanks gain.

    1. The Vivobarefoot Gobi boot is not insulated, and Peerko is coming out this fall with an unlined version of their Go boot. Ummm, there’s also the Be Lenka Nevada. All of those are options have good classic boot styling. There is more if you dig into the brand offerings a little more.

  5. I’ve been looking really hard for a waterproof boot without shoelaces that isn’t a rubber boot to replace my old waterproof Clarks zip-up Muckers boots. I think the closest boots that I have found are the FROSTY Shapen boots. Are there any others that I should look into? Thank you!

    1. Have you looked at the Snowfox from Be Lenka? The Shapen Frosty is not waterproof. But you could protect them yourself with a waterproofing agent if you like everything else about them.

  6. Thanks for this helpful article. Can you recommend a pair of ankle boots for high-volume and wide feet? I’m stuck between the FeelGrounds Chelsea, Be Lenka Mojo, Koel Fila Hydro, or Angles NYX/Nemesis.

    Also, I’m trying to decide if I should lean towards a pair made of leather so they’ll just stretch to my high-instep? Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!

    1. Hi Ann! I think you can safely rule out Koel since those are better suited for medium width feet. The others might all work for you, but I encourage you to look at the Chelsea Boot List for some additional information. Two more to consider are the Shapen Ivy, or Groundies in Barefoot+ width.

      Leather will stretch and form to your feet better than synthetic options so that is definitely something to consider.

  7. Great list!
    I have the Zaqq quintic and love them as a one and done cold weather boot. Haven’t been able to try them in snow yet since it didn’t snow here last winter.

    Would love to see a Koel Chelsea boots review. Their Fila boots look great, come in many colors and are water resistant. I especially like that they go up to size 45 (not like Vivobarefoot stopping at 43) and are not lined, so one can wear them in warmer weather too. Sounds however like they are too tight to be worn with warm soles?

  8. hi anya!

    i’m wondering if you have sizing advice for vivo boots? i have a very similar foot length as you (23cm * 9.3cm no socks, or 23.3cm * 9.4cm thick socks). i have a mild mountain shaped foot.

    i always feel like i am right in between the 37s and 38s in vivobarefoot. i have tried the tracker decon, forest magna esc, and new gobi lace up boot. in each one, in the 38s, i have a thumb (2cm) of space in front of my big toe, which feels a tiny bit big. i am not really tripping, and my foot is not sliding, but it just… feels bigger than i’m used to, even compared to other barefoot shoes. if i size down, i have a nice feeling 1.5cm in front of my big toe but my two smallest toes will sometimes touch the front of the boot if my foot moves forward ever so slightly when i walk and stand.

    i’m wondering if you experience anything similar when you say you try both the 37 and 38s in the gobi new gobi boots or that you sometimes size up (i’m assuming to a 38)? do you have any advice on which size to take?

    thank you!

    1. Yup! Sounds familiar! I have a 38 in the new Gobi boot and a 37 in the Gobi Chelsea. The 38s are indeed pretty long, but they’re more comfortable than the 37s and I’ve been enjoying them a lot more in the bigger size. In the Geo Chelsea I can do a 37 more comfortably with only thin socks, but for some reason the new Gobi line doesn’t feel as spacious on my outer toes.

  9. In the Second photo. (from top)… the line up of 5 images (guessing you and your husband) which Chelsea boot are you wearing in the middle photo?

    1. Those are from the brand Angles! Unfortunately this season they stopped shipping to US/Canada and the leather options are a little different now, but if you happen to live in a place where they ship you can learn more about them here. we’ll update this photo so all models shown are current as soon as we can.

    1. Those are from the brand Angles! Unfortunately this season they stopped shipping to US and the leather options are a little different now, but if you happen to live in a place where they ship you can learn more about them here. we’ll update this photo so all models shown are current as soon as we can.

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Hi. I'm Anya.

Hi. I'm Anya.

I first discovered barefoot shoes after a long history of foot issues. By changing my footwear and strengthening my body I was able to completely transform my life. Anya’s Reviews is my way of sharing with the world that healthy feet are happy feet!

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