If you are looking for that trendy Birkenstock Arizona style without the thick rigid sole, you’re in the right place! Here are some barefoot alternatives to the popular double strap summer sandal.
I’ve written about Birkenstocks numerous times – I myself wore them for decades and when I was in the throes of a persistent foot injury they really helped. But I’ve now put Birkenstocks into the category of “a therapy that’s there as needed but is not ideal for chronic use.” I prefer to spend the majority of my shoe-wearing time in options that are more flexible and thin, so my feet can stay supple and strong as I age!
These are in order of my personal favorites!
Koel Ada – These are light, wide, and flexible. The cork insole feels good on the feet, it’s not slippery or sweaty and is really lightweight. They have a generous fit with lots of toe space, and they are secure and not floppy. These are my favorite! I prefer a size 36 in them because they are wide (pictured here is a 37 on my feet, and you can see they are roomy).
Mukishoes Nazare – Buttery soft, with ample toe box space and a soft insole. So comfy! Sizing is mostly true, but they are wide and soft so I went down to a 36 on my low volume feet/narrow heels. If you don’t have low volume/narrow heels I’d stick with your usual size.
These are expected to come back in stock by mid-April. Will also be available at Mukishoes in the EU, there you can use code ANYAMUKI for 10% off.
Butterfly Your World – ANYA10 for 10% off. Definitely a favorite because they are so comfy and lightweight. They also come in multiple width options.
Check out our BYW review here for details on ordering and sizing!
Wildstride Leather – All sandals are handmade to order with bison leather and the quality is top notch. They fit securely and the leather is very high end. These are pricey sandals, but I feel like the quality and craftsmanship warrants it.
I got them in my usual size women’s 6-6.5 and they fit everywhere but are on the long side (longer than is typical for a size 6). They accept custom orders too!
Freet Salcombe – These have a little bit of cushion, which is nice, and a versatile fit. They’re a little high volume on my skinny ankles, but I still find them comfortable and wearable. Best suited for wide, high volume feet.
If you’re in the UK, shop Freet here.
Softstar Camino Sandals – Read my review here! They also come in a thinner soled version. These take some breaking in and are on the stiffer side, but are really durable. Good if you want more cushion/thickness.
Wyde Maia Strap – These are extra wide and have a thicker/cushier footbed. They start out a little stiff, but do get more flexible with wear.
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Runner Ups:
Shapen Dazzle – ANYA5 for 5% off. I think these are pretty, but found the width limiting because the sole comes up around the sides. Better for average width, medium to high volume feet.
Posh Panda – Watch my YouTube review here. Super soft and light, but the material stretches a lot so they can be hard to get secure enough. Best suited for high volume feet.
Bioworld (vegan) – I have not tried these personally, but I like the other shoes I have from this shop.
Tomar Creations – I have also not tried these, but again really like the other shoes I have from this store. The leather is really nice.
Ruby Barefoot – ANYASREVIEWS35 for 15% off. The leather on these is fairly stiff and they fit quite high volume.
Barehugs (Poland only) – Don’t really know anything about this brand, but if you’re in Poland they’re an option!
Slides
Slides definitely have their place – I use slides and slip-ons to run the trash out and do other quick things when I need to be totally hands free. But because they aren’t secured to your feet they can promote toe gripping shuffling, and other gait compensations that aren’t helpful longterm. So I personally don’t recommend them for daily or frequent wear. Do with that what you will!
Wyde Maia (EU & US) – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off. These don’t have arch support, but they do have a more cushioned footbed that will form to your foot. They are moderately flexible and run long, we suggest sizing down.
Vivobarefoot Sensus Yin Slide – Use code ANYASREVIEWS25OFF for 25% off. These are might lighter and more minimal than the Wyde slide above. You can find the men’s version of the Vivobarefoot Sensus Yin Slide here. If you are in the UK, use this link. If you are in the EU or the rest of the world, shop here.
Ahinsa Slip-ons (vegan, EU) – ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Zaqq Qansas (EU)
Tomar Creations (EU)
Tarasoles (EU only)
24 thoughts on “Better than Birkenstocks – The Sandals I’m Wearing Instead”
If I like Lems (minimalist but not barefoot) which of these are my best options?
I would say the Wyde Maia with backstrap, which is on preorder now for shipping later this month.