These are our all time favorite wide toe box barefoot running shoes – written in collaboration with performance coach Graham Tuttle.
Foot pain is a quick way to end your running career. So if you run or want to run you should probably think about your shoes! But most of the big brands out there have a pointy tapered toe box and a lot of unnecessary doodads that might be hurting you.
We believe that letting your feet move naturally in wide, flat, barefoot running shoes is a great choice for a lot of people, whether you’re a casual or avid runner.
In this review we cover our 10 favorite barefoot running shoes, some wide toe box cushioned options, and practical tips for improving your running and foot health.
Skip straight to the shoe recommendations with the menu above!
What Is A Barefoot Running Shoe?
In contrast with your typical running sneaker that’s full of shock absorbers, pronation control, and arch support, barefoot shoes say you are the technology!
Barefoot running shoes have the following criteria:
- Wide foot-shaped toe box
- Zero drop or totally flat from heel to toe
- Thin and flexible – but you can play with thickness here depending on your current needs!
- No arch support – again, you can play a little here as you transition
Want to learn more about the why behind barefoot shoes? Read this article.
One of the things I love about wide toe box running shoes is that you can choose from a range of thicknesses and use insoles to get the right amount of cushion you need while still being much kinder to your feet than typical running shoes are. We’ve included here barefoot running shoe options from the whole spectrum!
Why We Run in Barefoot Shoes
Our foot strength plays an important role in whether or not we get injured. In particular our toes do so much for us and help with balance! We like barefoot running shoes because they have the dual benefit of allowing your feet to move in a way that’s biomechanically sound AND to strengthen those tissues while you are moving!
Of course many of us have deconditioned feet after decades in squishy shoes, so we consider this switch to be a whole body endeavor. You can start small! Find our best tips for a smooth switch here.
And even if you can’t run without supportive shoes today, getting into a wide toe box running shoe will be a huge relief to your aching toes.
Things kept getting worse, even after trying orthotics, new shoes, and cortisone shots. Nothing helped. Eventually I realized “the only way out was through.” The solution to my pain was to confront my weak feet through training and better shoes.
Now when I move I feel grounded and stable. While I do some sprinting and running barefoot, most of my movement happens in minimalist shoes.
Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals of barefoot running shoes, let’s get to our favorites.
The Best Barefoot Running Shoes
This isn’t your standard collection of links. I (Anya) have personally used all of the shoes on this list plus hundreds of others in an effort to bring you the most useful barefoot running shoe guide available!
Before we get started, you may want to check out this guide to learn more about your own foot type and how to pick a size. Oh and all these shoes are great for walking and other exercise too! Are we ready to dig into the best barefoot running shoes on the market? Let’s go.
Vibram Five Fingers
Mesh | EU Sizes 34-50 | Ships from USA & other locations worldwide*
The link above will give you a 15% discount!
Well of course we had to lead with Vibram Five Fingers! They kicked off the barefoot running craze after all. But because they are so minimal (like being barefoot) they require a thoughtful adjustment. Make sure you’ve read through the previous “How To Transition” section before running in these.
What We Love:
- The glove like fit keeps your foot from sliding around during dynamic movement
- The toe pockets splay your toes lightly, which increases your stability.
- The rounded heel cup lets the back half of your foot move freely as well
- Despite being thin & flexible, these shoes are durable and can last for years
Graham has gotten hundreds of miles out of his Vibram KSO’s over multiple years and they’re not done yet.
Sizing & Fit Type: Vibram Five Fingers come in many different styles, and each fit slightly differently. Some even have thicker soles for a bit more protection. In general, this brand is true to size. Here is the rundown:
- Vibram Five Fingers are meant to fit closely.
- They fit almost all foot widths
- If you have extra short toes this brand might not be for you, as they may not stay in the pockets
*Click here to find your nearest Vibram retailer*
Vivobarefoot Primus Lite
Recycled Material | US Sizes W5.5-11.5 & M7-15 | Ships from multiple locations*
Use code ANYA25VB for 25% off everything but Sensus sandals, and Gobi sneakers. You can use code ARVIVO20 20% off those.
What We Love:
- Can be worn for all kinds of athletics
- Very light & thin (also come with removable insole)
- Not floppy
- Very durable
- Grippy outsoles
Be Aware: Slight break in time. VERY minimal
Once broken in, this is my personal favorite Vivobarefoot sneaker. People also love the Primus Lite Knit for a softer, more breathable and higher volume fit but I have low arches so the regular version is perfect for me. They just fit and feel good!
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Low volume (read this for an explanation!)
- Good for narrow heels
- Lots of big toe space
- Medium Width
- Men’s are wider than Women’s (otherwise no different)
Vivobarefoot is a great brand for people with low arches and narrow heels. If you have high volume and/or extra wide feet I would go with something else on this list.
*Click here to find a Vivobarefoot retailer near you*
Xero Shoes
Mesh/knit | US Sizes W5-12 & M6.5-13 | Ships from USA or EU
What We Love:
- Slightly thicker sole for comfort
- 5,000 mile warranty
- Durable Outsoles
Be Aware: Not suitable for people that need an extra wide toe box
Xero has many different sneakers that function really well for running. Our favorites are the Zelen, 360, Prio Neo, and Nexus. They all have a soft, breathable fit, removable insoles, and a durable outsole. They provide just a bit more thickness under foot than Vivobarefoot, which can come in handy on pavement or with longer miles. All are really versatile wide toe box trainers and work for running, court sports (pickleball), the gym, and basically any type of athletics.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Medium to wide toe box width
- Great if you have a wide arch and/or heel
- Medium to high volume
- Men’s are wider than Women’s (no other difference)
Shoes from Xero have a unique shape to them that is medium width at the toes but wide through the midfoot and heel. They work great for what I like to call “brick feet,” in the most loving way of course! I specifically recommended here my favorites that have a more generous fit in the toes because of the soft upper.
Read my in-depth Xero reviews here!
Freet Barefoot
Knit | EU Sizes 37-48 | Ships from the UK or US
Use code AnyaFreet for 10% off
What We Love:
- Freet makes athletic shoes for all terrains
- Super functional and comfortable
- Great brand if you’ve had trouble with barefoot shoes being wide enough
- Come with insoles if you need some cushion
My partner Justin has been wearing the same pair of Pace sneakers for virtually everything (and I mean everything) for 2 years. 10/10 will buy again – they are excellent all purpose athletic shoes, whether you’re running, walking, or playing pickleball.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Square toe box (works for most foot shapes)
- Fits both high and low volume because of removable insole
- Extra wide in toe box and midfoot
Be sure to read each product description fully for sizing advice because it is not always consistent between products. Some models run longer/shorter than others.
Read my in-depth Freet review here.
Lono Flow
Biodegradable Mesh | Sizes EU 36-46 | Ships from Hong Kong
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
What We Love:
- Very thin and flexible – a true barefoot shoe!
- Sock style uppers are stretchy, very comfortable, and can accommodate many foot volumes.
- Biodegradable materials that are also sustainable and vegan friendly
Be Aware: They are often out of stock as of now (pretty new company), but always available to pre-order. This is to help reduce over-production and waste in general. I also found the laces sometimes want to come undone on their own, but only occasionally.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Runs true to size
- Fits low-medium volume, but does have a removable insole.
- Wide toe box
One of the things I love about the Lono Flow is that it has a wide toe box but is fitted the through the heel and ankle for security.
Merrell Vapor Glove
Mesh | US Womens 5 – Men’s 15 | Ships from US
What We Love:
- Really Flexible
- Breathable upper
- Good Quality
The Vapor Glove from Merrell is a consistently reliable barefoot running shoe that can be used on trails and road. They are quite thin with a 6mm stack height, so you might consider the Trail Glove if you want a more robust sole. But we love how flexible and breathable they are.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Best for straight feet
- Average width
- True to size
Merrell’s Vapor and Trail Glove shoes don’t have an extra wide forefoot, so for people with a wide toe splay may not have enough space. They fit me well around the ankle and arch, but I wish I had more space for my toes to spread out.
On the Merrell website they say to order 1/2 size down to get the same fit as other Merrell shoes. But I found them to be true to size, so if you want to get the benefits of the extra toe space I would not size down.
Here are a few places you can find Merrell barefoot shoes around the world:
- Merrell UK
- Happy Little Soles (UK Retailer)
- Naboso (EU Retailer)
Wide Toe Box Cushioned Running Shoes
While you don’t necessarily need cushioned wide toe box shoes, they can be helpful if you’re coming from an injury/history of pain, don’t want to decrease your running time as you train your feet, or are doing high volumes of running on tricky terrain (pavement, sharp rocks).
You can check out this guide for more Cushioned Barefoot Shoe options!
Altra Running
Textile | US Sizes W5.5-13 & M8-16 | Ships from USA or UK
What We Love:
- Cushion for long distances or newbies
- Innovative shoe technology without interfering with your foot function
- Different options depending on terrain – pavement/trail/all weather
This is the brand I wore every single day for a year while I built up strength in my feet. I am particular about which Altra’s I like, in my opinion the best ones with enough toe space are Lone Peak, Solstice, and Escalante. They have thickness underfoot without being excessively squishy and have good toe space. Altra is also well regarded in the running community for being a high quality brand.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Wide forefoot and narrow heel – for toe freedom and a secure fit
- Work for both low and high volume feet
- Mostly true to size, but I would recommend sizing up for athletic use
Just be aware that some of the newer models come in a “Slim” fit which I do not recommend – toe space is queen! Men’s are also higher volume than women’s, so you can choose that if you need more space.
Lems Primal 3 or Zen
Mesh | US Sizes W6-12 & M4.5-15 | Ships from USA
What We Love:
- Versatile – can be used for running, sports, + everyday
- Extra wide forefoot
- Really comfortable!
Many barefoot enthusiasts use these for high impact activities, such as long distance running, basketball, or long days on their feet. The Primal Zen is one of my personal favorites.
Be Aware: Not all Lems shoes have a wide toe box so pay attention to their fit guide. We love the Primal Zen and Primal 3 most because they have the widest fit.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Run small – I wear a half to full size larger than my usual in Lems
- Extra wide toe box, but close around the heel
- High volume toe box -people with upward pointing toenails love them!
- Square shape – works for more foot shapes
- Fits both high and low volume arches
Peluva
Textile | Sizes US Women’s 6.5 – Men’s 13| Ships from US
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
What We Love:
It’s true these are not easy on the eyes, but Justin and I both have been using these and are intrigued. They separate the toes like Vibram Fingers but because the sole is thicker the toes don’t move as easily so you get more separation – like actual toe spacers. I can see this being therapeutic and I am feeling comfortable in them, but it also means that if you have scrunched toes or narrow feet it will be pretty aggressive.
They have quite a wide, square shape, so if you have that foot type (often hard to fit) this could be a godsend. If you really like the concept of five finger shoes, but want a little more cushion Peluva is a good choice.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Runs small
- Fits wide and square!
- Fit my low volume feet, but I expect will work for all foot volumes
Bahe Revive
Mesh | Grounding | EU Sizes 36-47 | Ships from UK
Use code ANYA for 10% off
What We Love:
The Bahe Revive is a zero drop foot shaped running sneakers that’s a little bit thicker (14mm with insole, 11mm without) and stiffer than most barefoot shoes. This makes them in my opinion best for urban surfaces, but I would also wear them trail running on a mostly level path.
Overall Bahe has a light, natural feel and flexes easily (they just don’t twist easily). If you are looking for an in-between minimalist shoe (not super thin, not super thick) Bahe is a great option.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Run a little long, but I won’t size down.
- Are Medium Width – they work on my wide feet because the mesh upper is flexible.
- Are Medium to High Volume – a removable insole makes them work for a variety of feet.
Read my full Bahe Revive review here
Best Budget Shoes
Want to experience barefoot freedom without investing in an expensive pair of shoes? Here are some great starter options that give you a taste without breaking the bank. After trying these budget-friendly options, many people move on to other more established brands for their quality and longevity, but these are perfectly good shoes that meet my healthy shoe requirements.
Saguaro
Neoprene or Mesh | US Sizes W6.5 – M14 | Ships from USA
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off
What We Love:
- Cheap options for the whole family!
- Lightweight
- Good, comfy fit
Be Aware: Color combos are a bit crazy! Product offerings change a lot, so can be confusing.
From Saguaro I recommend only the Free or Smart II as the best shape, fit, and feel (love a breathable knit upper!). Saguaro can be funny because they have so many similar looking shoes and they come and go frequently. My whole family enjoys these shoes, they’re pretty dang comfy!
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Extra wide fit
- Square toe box shape
- Medium volume, can fit high volume when insole is removed
- They run small and I recommend erring on the larger side.
If you have low volume feet I’d go for an option with a velcro strap, since the laces only tighten so much.
Whitin
Mesh | US Sizes W5.5-11 & M7-15 | Ships from USA
What We Love:
- Super flexible
- Easy on/off with velcro
These barefoot running shoes are not my favorite style, but they’re quite comfortable. Like Saguaro, the options change names and move around but seem to essentially be the same shoe.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Runs small, I size up
- Fits low volume
- Extra wide toe box (especially if you size up)
Read my in-depth Whitin review here!
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, don’t worry. You can find a complete list of minimalist running shoes here, plus tons of other useful resources and reviews on my website.
How To Be Comfortable in Barefoot Running Shoes
Changing your shoes without strengthening key areas and adjusting your running can result in pain or injury.
- Reclaim your feet with foot strengthening and mobility exercises – toes that move individually are better able to stabilize you.
- Walk before you run – walking in barefoot shoes is an excellent way to strengthen your feet without the high impact of running.
- Mind your form – cushioned shoes enable poor technique. Start to change this by taking your shoes off and running for a few steps on a hard surface. You will naturally shorten your stride and land closer to your body!
- Increase running time in barefoot shoes slowly – you want to only train good form, so it’s better to take it slow rather than push through and run poorly.
- Add movement diversity – bounce around, swim, bike, squat. Running is repetitive, and we need to be well rounded in our strength to not get injured
- Be patient – it takes time*
*Fascia is the connective tissue that provides strength at the foot and lower leg and it can take anywhere from 3-6 months to fully remodel. It is different from muscle in that you must load it enough to provide a stimulus for change but not too much that you overdo it. So pay attention to your body as you progress.
Which Shoes Are The Widest?
So which barefoot running shoes are the widest? Here is a rough guide to toe box width in the brands reviewed here.
Vibram, Freet, Lems, Whitin, Tadeevo, Saguaro, and Altra’s widest shoes are all very similar in toe box width and appropriate for many people with extra wide feet!
I did my best to generalize the differences between men’s and women’s sizes, and between models. Note that this chart does not take into account the width in other parts of the shoe, only the toe box. For all other fit considerations besides toe box please read the Sizing & Fit sections above.
Barefoot Running Sandals
Lots of barefoot enthusiast love running in minimalist sandals! You can find my top picks for athletic sandals in this article.
Barefoot running shoes provide your feet an opportunity to MOVE! Feet support the entire body every time we stand, walk or run, so it makes sense to keep them in prime condition. Foot shaped toe boxes, flat soles, and shoe flexibility keep your feet in their natural state. But because most of us have been stuffing our feet in non-functional shoes for decades, we need to transition thoughtfully back to minimalist shoes. This guide on barefoot running shoes is your jumping off point for healthier feet, more enjoyable runs, and a stronger body!
Interested in minimalist shoes for more than running? There are tons of options for different lifestyles and events – spend some time in my Barefoot Shoe Lists to get started.
Further Reading:
- Run For Your Life
- Older Yet Faster
- Peter Attia/Irene Davis Podcast
- Research Study: Running in highly cushioned shoes increases leg stiffness and amplifies impact loading
- Research Studies: Effect of Highly Cushioned Shoes on Ground Reaction Forces during Running
Graham is a health and performance coach that specializes in helping you get out of pain and back to your life. Follow him on Instagram for daily tips!
62 thoughts on “The All Time Best Barefoot Running Shoes For Healthy Feet”
Hey Anya,
Thanks for this list and your other comprehensive running shoe list! Overall, both are very helpful and I’ve thoroughly read each. However, I’m still kinda stumped and wondered if you might have a recommendation.
I power walk and do some running on a treadmill as part of my daily fitness plan. My legs are recovering from an illness that shut down my central nervous system for awhile, so I’m still wearing/looking for some cushioning (in the medium category I’d say?) My feet are mountain shaped, high arch, medium volume, average width, but my heels are very narrow. The right one is super narrow, considerably more so than the left. I make up for it with heel pads and moleskin, etc. Fan shaped shoes generally fit me best and I can pad in for my heels accordingly. But I’m having trouble finding those options for running/high intensity walking shoes. I’m also a solid size 39/8.5, and every time I try a company that doesn’t do half sizes, I have to return them because there’s no amount of heel pads that can make up the difference (been super bummed about that with Splay, I just couldn’t make any of them work, in the 8’s or 9’s.) It’s been pretty frustrating to say the least. Of all the things, what fits me best right now is a sneaker from Whitin, but they’re a 6mm stack height and haven’t been good for me at the gym. I’m rocking their running shoes right now just to get by, but my right foot goes numb about 10 minutes into my workout and that’s not good. I can spend up to $200 for something decent, and have done so, to no avail.
So. Sorry for all the background! If you have any suggestions for what might fit me, or give me the best starting point, I would really appreciate it!! And if not, I get it!
Thank you so much,
Lauren