I’ve been testing and wearing Tolos Barefootwear since they first debuted a few years back. Recently, the brand added two new casual sneaker options in both a barefoot and a thicker transition version. Let’s dig into these new barefoot and wide toe box sneakers!
Key Takeaways
- Tolos shoes feature a wide, foot-shaped fit that works for medium to extra-wide feet (depending on your foot shape).
- The toe box is bean-shaped, so may not work well for square feet.
- The new styles come in both barefoot and transition thickness for people who don’t want barefoot.
- Sizing runs slightly small, so size up if you’re in-between.
- Get 10% off with code ANYA10.
Meet Tolos
Tolos is run by Evan, a true one-man show. Evan designs the shoes, fulfills the orders, and even answers your customer service questions — all while being one of the kindest people I have ever met in the barefoot shoe space. He’s supported my events from the very beginning (we first met in 2023), and it’s been such a joy to watch him expand his line. You can really feel the care and thoughtfulness he puts into each shoe.
Tolos first launched with just one barefoot sneaker (the Archetype) that was thin, flexible, and very performance-oriented. Now they’ve expanded into a full line that includes both barefoot and “transition” options, giving you the choice between a super thin sole or a thicker, more protective one. As someone who loves having variety in my shoe wardrobe, I am a big fan of what Tolos is doing.
Transition VS Barefoot
What sets Tolos apart is that you can choose how much ground feel and flexibility you want. All models except the Archetype come in either a barefoot version (thin and flexible) or a transition version (thicker sole). Both use the exact same grippy, high-abrasion outsole, so you’re not trading off durability no matter which you choose.
The transition midsole is firm rather than squishy, which some people prefer for long-term use because it holds up better over time. Even though it’s called a “transition” shoe, I find it really practical as an option for barefoot enthusiasts who just want a little extra underfoot protection for those longer days walking on concrete. And if you are a hard-core barefooter who likes to keep things ultra-thin, the barefoot version definitely gives you that classic, flexible feel.
For both models of shoe, the insoles are sewn in and not removable, which is worth noting. If you need/want more soft cushion, you always have the option to add in your own insole.
Sizing & Fit
Here are some pointers for the sizing and fit on the new Tolos models.
- The shoes have a wide to extra-wide toe box
- They have a bean-shaped toe box, so if you have a more square-shaped foot you might find them less ideal.
- Sizing runs just a little small, so if you’re in between, definitely size up. Existing customers will likely need a half-size larger than their Archetype.
- The outsole shape narrows by the arch, which is great if you have a high arch or a narrow midfoot. If you have a wide midfoot or a very low arch, this area might bother you.
- The volume is medium, but because of the laces you can open them up for higher volume feet or tighten them down if you’re lower volume.
Samantha’s extra-wide feet fit in them perfectly, but that’s because she has a sloped foot. I have an overall narrower foot than her, but find that the new Tolos shoes don’t have enough space for my outer toes because mine have a squarer shape. This is the first time something wide enough for Samantha wasn’t wide enough for me (in the right places)!
Now let’s take a deeper dive into some of the new models Tolos has released!
Canvas High Top
Use code ANYA10 for 10% off
The Canvas High Top is a good addition to the barefoot/natural footwear world as a true classic high top sneaker. It features a reinforced rubber toe guard which is great for durability, and I love that it’s all cotton canvas, inside and out. That makes for a breathable, machine washable shoe that is also a bit nostalgic/retro. They come in barefoot or transition thickness, and in off-white or pure white.
Samantha is testing a pair along with me in the Transition thickness and she is a huge fan. She’s been wearing them a ton the last few months! They’re classic and cool. I prefer the Barefoot version because it’s lighter and I don’t notice the outer edge of the shoe as much in it. But neither fits my feet shape really well, sadly.
I had one other minor fit issue – the first time I wore them my socks didn’t go above the tops of the shoes and I found that the edge rubbed my skin. Samantha didn’t experience this, but she has high volume feet and I have very low volume feet. I have mine totally cinched up and it seems that makes it cut in more. So the next time I wore taller socks!
These are shoes you can wear with literally anything, and they’ll hold up too.
Soleil
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The Soleil is Tolos’ sportier new option. It’s made of ripstop mesh with faux suede details, so it’s not quite as natural as the canvas, but it’s super abrasion-resistant and has more padding and structure through the heel and ankle.
The fit is the same as the Canvas High Tops, but I do have a small beef with the shoe tongue. The edge of it is raw which makes it look unfinished. Overall, the style doesn’t do it as well for me as the High Tops. But Robby, our male tester, loves them and has been wearing them a ton.
Performance wise, the Soleil can perform like an athletic shoe but looks more like a mainstream sneaker. It comes in one color — a creamy base with taupe accents.
Archetype 2.0
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The Archetype is Tolos’ original model that is lighter, and more flexible and minimal. They are designed to be flush with your foot and dynamic for the gym, but can also work as an everyday shoe. These ones fit me better because the sole sits lower on the sides of the shoe, but even in this one I feel my pinkie toe on the side. However, they’re a great all-arounder barefoot shoe!
This model fits more true to size than the other two.
I love that Evan offers both barefoot and transition soles in the new styles — it’s so rare to get that choice without compromising fit or quality. The shoes are wide, durable, and practical, while still looking like “normal” sneakers. If you’ve been wanting a shoe that can handle long days on hard ground but still respects a natural foot shape, or you are just craving that classic high-top look, Tolos is absolutely worth checking out.
Like the idea of wide but not barefoot? Check out more of my recommended brands here.
