These are what I call “adventure sandals.” You can wear them for your everyday life but also take them off-road, into water, for a little hike or jog – all the things life throws at you. Because to me, that’s what barefoot sandals are all about. Letting your feet take you on more ADVENTURES! I’m sharing here my top recommended barefoot sandal brands that can take you anywhere.
This is based off my personal experience reviewing hundreds of barefoot shoes and brands, alongside my team of testers. I hope it helps you find your perfect barefoot sandals!
Why I Wear Barefoot Sandals
I wear barefoot sandals to preserve my long term foot health and for immediate comfort. They are unique from typical sandals you find in the store because they are:
- Totally flat (zero drop)
- Flexible
- Foot shaped
- Securely attached to the foot
The adventure sandals I used to wear were often heavy with rigid arch support. But I’ve since learned that minimalist sandals promote strength and mobility more than those other sandals. And strong and mobile feet support a pain free body!
Learn more about barefoot shoes and how to transition to them here.
This list focuses on my favorite unisex barefoot sandals for walking, hiking, running, and water activities. And because you may not want a thin sole at all times, we also have several options with more cushion. This article is for everyone who wants to take better care of their feet this summer!
If you are looking for other options, I also have recommendations for stylish women’s sandals and healthy summer sandals for kids.
How To Pick A Size in Barefoot Sandals
Everyone has unique preferences for how they want their barefoot sandals to fit, but here are a few guidelines to make it easier.
- In general, sandals do not need as much extra length in front as close-toed shoes.
- Sandals about .5cm – 1cm longer than your foot is often a good range.
- Sandals that are too long can end up snagging the front of it on things.
Learn more about how to measure your feet and use a size chart here!
The Best Barefoot Sandals
Below are my top picks for the all time best barefoot sandals you can do everything in. This is your one-stop-shop for everything you need for summer!
Shamma Sandals
Vegan or Leather | Sizes US W5 – M14 | 6 – 15mm Stack Height | Made in USA
Get 10% off your purchase with code ANYASREVIEWS2023
What I Love About Them: Hands down my favorite do-it-all barefoot sandal brand is Shamma Sandals. The materials are top notch – there is no skimping and you can tell by the way they feel on your skin. They come in a range of sole thicknesses from extremely minimal (6mm) to fairly thick (15mm) with deep tread. And yet they are all flexible and light no matter the thickness.
They’re immediately comfortable and my pairs have all lasted beautifully through tons of wear. I personally prefer the leather topped soles because they feel so good on my feet and wick sweat. I love the Ibex for hiking and pavement pounding, the Trailstar for basically everything, and the Pacific as an easy pull on flip-flop replacement.
I also make use of the power straps because it helps the sandals fit more securely on my low volume feet/thin ankles. You also can request customizations for two-different sized feet, extra large or small sizes, different thicknesses, low volume etc. My only Shamma complaint is that the straps tend to loosen over time, so I have to retighten them periodically.
You can learn more about Shamma Sandals in my previous reviews.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Mostly true to size, but on the slightly small side. Shamma uses unisex sizing. I am a Shamma 5.5, which converts to a US women’s 6.5
- Wide to extra wide fit – works for many foot shaped and widths, even extra wide feet.
- Fits all volumes
Shamma Sandal retailers around the world:
- Distance Runwear – Canada
- Bprimal – Australia
- Go Free Concepts – Germany
- Barefoot & More – Netherlands
That’s just a few, use Shamma’s Store Locator here to find more!
Earth Runners
Vegan | Sizes US W6 – M14 | 8 – 12mm Stack Height | Ships from US and retailers around the world
Get 10% off your purchase with code ANYA
What I Love About Them: Earth Runners are a no fuss sandal that looks a little cleaner/less sport than Shamma sandals. Once you get the strap adjusted to your liking, they are really secure over the arch but completely unrestrictive on your toes. And you can slip them on and off your heel without doing the buckle each time.
I wear mine for just about everything – they’re perfect for hiking, camping, water activities, and they even look pretty cute with everyday outfits. They also come in different sole thickness options depending on how much cushion you want.
Earth Runners are well-loved among my readers, but the most common complaint I hear is that the strap can be irritating between the toes at first. If you have sensitive skin, I recommend choosing the ergonomic laces (labeled with an E on the product listing) because they are the softest.
You can also wet the strap and twist it back and forth to soften, or roll the strap into a burrito shape and stitch it (see my tutorial for this hack here). I have sensitive skin, so these tips make a big difference for me.
For more in-depth info about Earth Runners, read my review of them!
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Runs slightly small – I go up a half size for comfort between my toes, but they recommend a close fit for security.
- Moderately wide toe box shape – likely not suitable for those with extra wide feet.
- Fits all foot volumes.
Xero Shoes
Vegan | Sizes US W5 – M15 | 6 – 11mm Stack Height | Ships from US or EU
What I Love About Them: Xero Shoes makes a variety of practical barefoot sandals at decent prices in different strap styles and different cushioning levels. Also, I am really into the fun colorful options they have (don’t bright shoes make you want to go outside more?).
You can go for a very minimal sandal for maximum ground feel (Z Trek), or a more cushioned option (Z or D Trail) for tougher trails, longer milage, or comfort. The Z or D Trail feel softer and squishier than the other options here, which is nice sometimes. Xero is also one of the best places to get sandals that don’t go between the toes.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size – I wear a size 6
- Average width – not recommended for extra wide feet.
The women’s are narrower than the men’s and come in different colors, otherwise they’re the same - Medium to higher volume – These tend to fit a slightly higher volume foot best. I can tighten them on my low volume feet, but I’m pulling them about as tight as they will go.
Xero sandals around the world:
If you live in Europe, you can also find Xero shoes at Mugavik Barefoot and use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
Vivobarefoot Tracker
Vegan | Sizes US W4.5 – M15 Ships US and retailers around the world.
What I Love About Them: These launched last year (2024) and I ended up liking them more than I thought I would. They’re a great Keen sandal replacement, with breathability, security, and a protected toe. They’re really easy to slip on and have a nice fit that is easy to adjust and get just right.
The outsole is great for off-roading, so they make for excellent warm weather hiking shoes. And they have a removable insole so you can customize the fit.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size – I would choose your normal close-toed shoe size.
- Average width – these are not super wide, and are a touch narrow for me. Men’s are wider than women’s but otherwise identical, so you can order based on your foot type.
- Medium volume, but adjustable.
Luna Sandals
Vegan or Leather | Sizes US Women’s 6 – Men’s 13 | 9 – 19mm Stack Height | Ships from US and retailers around the world
You can have out-of-stock sandals made to order in their USA shop!
Use the link above for an automatic 15% off your purchase!
What I Love About Them: Luna Sandals have a classic huarache strapping and durable outsoles. If you are someone who puts a lot of mileage on your shoes, something like the Luna Mono can really take you places. They are on the thicker side, compared to some other options here, but it translates into a longer life. The straps also are very high quality and don’t fall apart. I recommend the winged versions, because they hold the strap in place better (other models tend to loosen). I also like using the Tech Strap for a more secure fit.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- Runs a little small – You can consult their size guide for measurements and printable templates.
- Medium wide – these have a narrower toe box than Shamma and Earth Runners.
- Fits all foot volumes, if you use the tech strap.
You can also purchase these at Luna Sandals UK
Feelgrounds Pathway
Vegan | Sizes US W5 – M15 | Ships from EU
What I love about them: These adventure sandals have ample toe room and a soft secure strap. I often find that over the toe sandals feel restrictive, but these do not. And even though they’re kinda sporty, they’re also kinda cute too. Extra wide friends will be happy!
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size
- Extra wide fit
- Fits most foot volumes – I am able to get a good fit on my low volume foot by tightening the strap. And high volume feet should also be comfortable with it loosened.
Bedrock Sandals
Vegan & Leather | Sizes US women’s 6 – men’s 14 | 8 – 20mm Stack Height | Ships from US
What I Love About Them: Bedrock is a super rugged adventure sandal brand built for extreme activity. The lacing system is robust – it does not slip or loosen at all with wear.
My favorite is the Cairn, which is a thicker model compared to others here, but lightweight and very secure on your foot. They are flexible enough to bend, but there’s not a ton of ground feel (they’re also firm and not squishy).
All Bedrock sandals are zero drop. The “3D” models have a little bit of arch support, and the rest are totally flat. These are a great option for intense hiking/rafting, or if you just want a little more shoe between you and the ground.
You can find a really useful Comparison Guide to the different Bedrock models here.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size.
- Average width.
- Super adjustable lacing first low to high volume feet.
Bedrock Sandals around the world:
- Bedrock AU
- Outsiders Store – UK
- Dismount Bike Shop – Canada
These are just a few, you can find physical shops in the US that carry Bedrock, as well as more online retailers around the world using Bedrock’s Store Locator
Toetem Sandals
Leather | Sizes US women’s 6 – men’s 13 | 8 – 14mm Stack Height | Ships from US
You can use code ANYASREVIEWS for 7% off your order.
What I Love About Them: Toetem sandals have a wide forefoot – the widest – and the adjustments are all velcro and super easy to use. I also love that they are a small, family-run business with each pair handmade in their workshop!
I find the strapping not quite as robust as the others here – they feel more handmade and maybe not as durable for intense use. But they are loved by extra wide-footed friends and overall function well!
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size
- Average to extra wide width
- Fits low to high volume feet (thanks to the velcro straps and Metastrap option)
Lems Switchback
Leather & Nylon Option | Sizes US W6 – M15 | 17mm Stack Height | Ships from USA
What I Love About Them: The Lems Switchback sandal is brand new (coming in stock late April 2025) and a slightly different take on the barefoot sandal. They have fully free toes, no arch support, and a lightweight sole. But they are thick compared to most other models here. In fact, they are similar to Bedrock Sandals – except that the Switchback has an extra wide fit and a 3mm heel rise (is not zero drop). I would also say they are lighter and softer than Bedrock.
I am a proponent of zero drop as much as possible, but 3mm is within the range of normal heel height variation, so not going to have a huge biomechanical effect on you. And a very small heel rise might be something you’re looking for depending on your current body state, use case of the sandals (e.g. if wearing a heavy pack).
That aside – they are a rugged sandal with tons of toe room and sturdy adjustments (so the straps don’t loosen). My biggest complaint was that I found it difficult to move the strap through the side buckles. The top adjustment is easy, but on the sides it took some doing. Now that I’ve got it on the tension I want, I only adjust the top buckle to put the sandal on.
Sizing & Fit Type:
- True to size – I got a size 7 because I’m used to sizing up in Lems, but I didn’t need to.
- Extra wide fit – I’ve got lots of space all around my foot! But because they fit securely it’s not an issue.
- Adjustable volume – single piece of webbing that is fully adjustable.
Additional barefoot sandals around the world
Here are more favorites from different regions around the world!
Peracles (AU) – Custom sizes. Super minimalist all leather sandals that I love.
Peracles closes for a couple months in the spring (or fall for Southern Hemisphere) so plan accordingly.
Wildsole Sandals (UK) – Sizes UK Kids 10 to Adult 14 or custom option. Wildsole Sandals are lightweight, flexible, and really practical adventure sandals with several outsole options available.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
ZuZu Sandals (Israel) – Vegan or leather, Sizes EU 34-47. The soles on ZuZu sandals are made from recycled tires, so they feel a little heavier than other brands but they are a solid option available in 2 different stack heights.
Use code ANYA10 for 10% off
Panta Sandals (EU) – Sizes EU 37-47+. These barefoot sandals are light, comfortable, and can be worn both as a lifestyle sandal or for athletic use. They also come in children’s sizes.
Chala Sandals (EU) – Vegan or Leather, Sizes EU 36-47+. For more details about this brand, read my full Chala review here.
Get 5% off your purchase with code 93D5B5E9
Nallu (EU) – Sizes EU 35-48
Laboo Leather (EU & US) – Sizes EU 35-45, but run slightly small. Fully adjustable leather sandals that are functional for just about any activity. Read more about these here.
Pyopp Fledge (Asia) – Sizes EU 36-46
La Mexa (Mexico) -Vegan, suitable for feet measuring 23-30cm.
Tapak Outdoors (Philipines only) – To order, you must message them through their social media page.
Deliberate Life Designs (US) – Vegan, Sizes US Women’s 5 – Men’s 14. handmade to order using recycled climbing slings. They’re a great brand if you have an uncommon foot type, because they come in 5 different preset shapes and 5 different outsole options. And if none of those work, you can still choose the fully custom route. Read my in-depth review of Deliberate Life Design Sandals here.
Get 10% off your purchase with code ANYASREVIEWS
Unshoes Footwear (US) – Vegan, Sizes US Women’s 5 – Men’s 13 (some customizations available). These are really easy to take on and off because of the buckles and elastic, and they can be easily worn both for everyday and sport. The Wokova Feather shown here is my favorite model.
Get 10% off your purchase with code ANYA
Paisley Running Sandals (US) – Custom sizing with lots of different strap placement options. You can read my thoughts on these here!
The owner of this shop is a teacher and is only open in the summer months.
Covered-Toe Barefoot Sandals
Looking for a barefoot shoe/sandal hybrid? The following are similar to a Keen style sandal, but with a barefoot sole. They can be used for more protection while hiking or in water activities. *Some are more shoe than sandal, but I included them anyways because they are water friendly!!*
Vivobarefoot Tracker Sandal – This sandal is an excellent all-purpose shoe but with more breathability and lightness than other rugged options. The Ultra water shoe is another option from Vivo, but not as great for hiking and long days of walking.
Code ANYA25VB for 25% off everything but Sensus sandals, and Gobi sneakers. You can use code ARVIVO20 20% off those.
Bedrock Mountain Clogs – The mountain clogs are functional like a sandal, but with a covered front. These are built on Bedrock’s 3D outsole which is zero drop but has a small raised arch. Read the full review here for all the details.
Freet Zennor – Great barefoot adventure sandal from Freet. These have a wide, high volume fit. Code AnyaFreet gets you 10% off.
Sole Runner FX Trainer – These ship from Germany and are a high quality sandal built for outdoor adventuring.
Wildling Feather – These are extremely lightweight and don’t offer much toe protection, but they function well for walking and cover some toes (they still peek out on the sides)
Xero Aqua X Sport – These are a trail/water shoe hybrid. Straight forward functionality! Women’s version here.
Hiitave Water Shoes – These are meshy and holey to drain water and really flexible!
Saguaro – These neoprene shoes can be used as a water shoe, but I have only ever used them as running shoes. Decent shoe for the price! Read my full review here
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off
Zaqq QERRY & QLEAR Sandals – These are leather and seem geared more for hiking instead of water use.
Astral Loyak – These are only zero drop and flexible after removing the insole. They are also a narrow option. But great quality shoe designed for boating/water use.
Barefoot Sandals Without A Toe Post
Many of the barefoot running and hiking sandals have a toe post or thong strap. If you’re someone who doesn’t tolerate that, check out these options of barefoot sandals that do not go between the toes!
These are a few of our favorites, but for even more options head to the Complete Sandals List.
Feelgrounds Pathways (EU) – Sizes EU 35-49. Use code ANYA5 for 5% off
Monk Sandals (EU) – Sizes EU 37-46
Xero Shoes (US) – Sizes US Women’s 5 – Men’s 15
Saltic Trek (EU only) – Sizes EU 34-47
Unshoes Pah Tempe (US) – Sizes US 5-12. The Uinta can also be worn without the toe loop – review here. Use code ANYA for 10%
Wildling Feather (EU & US) – Sizes EU 36-48 . Read my Wilding review here!
As you can see, there is a practical barefoot sandal for just about any activity. If you still have lingering questions (like barefoot sandals for kids), make sure you check out this Complete List of Barefoot Sandals, or you can make use of the quiz & filters on the Barefoot Shoe Finder for even more options!
109 thoughts on “The Best Barefoot Sandals for Hiking, Running, & Walking”
What brand and model are the sandals in the upper right of the title picture with the maroon and grey straps?
Those are from Paisley Running Sandals
Not sure if you had anything to do with it, but I just received an email from Shapen. They discovered that my shoes were lost in their warehouse and they are refunding me the money with a 20% discount coupon as well. I really still want the sandals so I asked if that was possible. Either way, the issue will be resolved. Thank you.
Hi Jean, glad they got back to you! I hope you can still get your sandals.
Hi Anya:
I just can’t take it anymore! I’m afraid if I go to a podiatrist, I’ll be told to wear more restrictive foot coffins!!!
I was comfortable in birkenstocks for a few years–the Milanos. My toenails always hurt in shoes. I think because my big toe tonails are at a funny angle. The tips angle upward toward the sky, not parallel to the ground, so almost any toebox (and socks) push down on my toenail tip and lever it painfully. So open toed shoes are the best.
What I liked was that I could walk and felt like my feet were protected but my toes were free–like I could stub my toe, but the rugged birkenstock sole & edge protected my toes. I have mountain shape. But my feet started to hurt in those too. I don’t think the bed was the right shape for my foot and I started to get calluses on the tops of my 2nd toes. My feet are happiest barefoot, but I can’t wear those kinds of shoes or no shoes at work.
Is there a sandal that might have what I want: rather rugged lug kind of a sole, leather foot bed, open toed, well strapped, but especially a flat barefoot-zero kind of footbed? Best described as a birkenstock milano with a flat/barefoot footbed.
Hi Danielle, Here are some options that come to mind. Bedrock Mountain Clogs though they don’t have a leather footbed the sole IS rugged like you are describing and will offer some protection if you bump your feet against something, Shamma Sandals come in many different sole thicknesses, have leather footbed options, and a few different strap variations.
Hi Anya, I’ve been looking at barefoot sandals for next summer but most barefoot sandals have that thingy between the big toe and the second toe and my feet can’t handle that, it’s extremely painful and uncomfortable. Since my other barefoot shoes are Xero and I’m very happy with them, I’ve been looking at their Z sandals. But I was surprised when I checked their sizing templates, that I would need size 38,5 or more for sandals when I normally have 37-37,5 (also with Xero, for example the Prio). Normally I’d use a smaller size, even down to 36 with sandals. Xero says to order your usual size! What is your experience with their sandals and sizing? I’m confused now and don’t know whether to get them or not!
If you already have the Xero Prio and are comfortable in your usual size then I would stick with that instead of sizing up so much. That would be odd to be a whole size bigger in the Z Trail than you are in the Prio. If you are looking at the Z Trek those ones actually run a half size big, so you would definitely not be sizing up.
Anya, if you didn’t gather from my original post on the UnShoe Feather, I think you chose the wrong size of this sandal. The fit of them really isn’t limited to just high-volume feet. What you should do is ignore their size recommendation and try them in a smaller size. After trying the smaller size, I was much happier with the fit, because the straps were anchored closer to my foot, allowing me to wear them securely while still being comfortable.
My son has asked for Keens for Christmas. He wants a shoe he can wear for hiking and get wet. I found a wet dry type shoe on xeroshoes that he ok’d but then saw a lot of poor reviews about their customer service. Do you have any similar to keens that you recommend?
Hi! You can find some closed-toe sandal options here.
Hi Anya,
Do you have any recommendations for barefoot sandals for walking in urban concrete pavement on a regular basis? Thanks!
Yes, I would recommend either the Luna Mono or Shamma Ibex. I personally used the Ibex over the summer for travel in urban environments and they were perfect. The cushion I needed for lots of mileage.
Hi Anya! I had the same question and wonder — what makes you reach for the Shammas over Earth Runners for urban wear on pavement? Also did you go for the leather on your Ibex? I’m handling a neuroma that responds well to the slightest but of cushion (think lems primal zen) and wonder if I should give Shammas a go over ERs. Thanks!
The Shamma Ibex is a little thicker than ER Alpha, but the two main reasons I choose Shamma is because I reeeaaally love the leather insole on them. And with the extra security strap on the Shamma they also fit just a little better. But I do love my ERs too.
Greetings Anya,
Are there any sandals you would recommend that work with bunioned feet? My splay, flexibility and strength are greatly improved but the bunions are here to stay🙁
Hi Diane! For feet with bunions, I would avoid anything with a strap that would cross that area. Something with a toe-post like Shamma Sandals or Bedrock Sandals. You can find some more tips for shopping for shoes when you have bunions here.
I’m so glad I stumbled upon this post! As an avid hiker and runner, I’m always on the lookout for comfortable and supportive footwear. These barefoot sandals look like a game-changer – thanks for doing the research and sharing your findings! Can’t wait to try them out on my next adventure.
Hello, and thank you!!
Apart from Earthrunners, do you know other brands from ( or shipping to) EU producing barefoot sandals with a copper lace plug featured on the outsole?
Do you think that plug is really making a difference ?
Earthrunners seems really good but too expensive in matter of taxes and shipping fees for Europeans.
Thanks a lot
Personally, I haven’t noticed a big difference with it. I wear them for other reasons (and I try to take my shoes off a lot in the summer anyways). The only sandal in Europe I can think of that has the possibility of a copper plug being added is from FeelBarefoot, but they are lifestyle sandals and not sport sandals.