There have been so many pretty new wide toe box shoes this spring, it’s like everyone got the memo that we wanted to have more fun with our wardrobe! I’ve been sharing all the updates each week in the Barefoot Shoe Digest, but if you’d like to have it all in one place – here ya go!
And you know what’s super fun – most of these brands will be in attendance at the Barefoot Shoe Expo THIS MONTH, where you can try them on in-person!!
Spring 2026 But Make it Barefoot pt. 1 can be found here. Read on for part 2. This is nearly everything I’ve been testing out this season.
Xero Shoes Spring Collection
Overseas? Shop Xero EU here.
Xero is bringing a lot of color, print, and style for a brand that formerly only did athletic shoes! Style-wise, my most favorite new model is the Cassie Knit – they are adorable for how easy to wear they are. Velcro strap means no fiddling with buckles, and the knit is lightweight and breathable (shown on me above right).
I am also a big fan of the just released Genesis sandals. They have a gold leather version ($70) and an adorable collection of prints as part of a J Crew collab ($60). Besides being an on-point style, they are also pretty affordable for a cute barefoot sandal.
I’ve written up a more detailed review with product specific advice in my Xero Shoes Spring 2026 article. It includes a LOT more fun and colorful options, including a bunch of bright, colorful, and functional sneakers.
Shapen Collection
Use code ANYAS10 for 10% off until May 31
Shapen’s spring collection is, as usual, lovely. But sizing on the new models is a bit finnicky, so I’ll give you the run down here. Especially because we opted to not carry any of these in Anya’s Shop this spring, so they’re only available from Shapen Direct (where you can’t return if outside the EU).
Typically in Shapen flats and sandals I wear a size 36 regular width, but this spring’s models feel a little narrow for me in regular so I switched to a wide in the ones I can. This is a bit of a departure from the norm, because usually Shapen Wide width is sufficient space for my extra wide friends. However these models I don’t find as roomy as their others. *This comes down to construction/design, and not a change in their shoe last.
Festa – I love an espadrille flat. The Festa is feminine and playful with an optional ankle wrap or velcro strap. I do have a bit of a gripe with the toe box though – the front is shallow and presses down a bit on my big toes. Fortunately moving to the 36 wide gave me enough extra room and the fit is good in that size.
Also, the edging of the sole comes up around the sides. So if you have a wide midfoot and you might spill over the edge.
Neeja – This model reads Parisian to me. The buckle and sole construction make for a sophisticated look that is both interesting and neutral. The two straps also make for a secure fit, which I always appreciate. The leather is thicker and rubs the sides of my toes a bit, so I plan to stuff the toe box to loosen it up. I first tried them in a size 37, which almost works but is long on me. The 36 is a better fit. For me they don’t run as long as the other Shapen Spring models, but still slightly longer than other brands.
Twiggy – Another very chic, elevated look that reminds me of block toe kitten heels. Something you might see in Devil Wears Prada! The slingback style does pose some fit complications, because it doesn’t hold your heel in place as well as other styles. I am very narrow through the heels, so this is an expected issue for me.
In my regular width they felt too narrow on the big toe side, but the wide is too loose in the heel. In general I recommend the Twiggy in wide to people who have thicker feet and heels, and the regular to people with slim toes.
Mukishoes
Use code ANYAMUKI for 10% off in the EU. You can shop select Mukishoes products in the US at Anya’s Shop.
Mukishoes has lots to love this year! My favorites are the Ibiza, Nazare black, Una Bloom, Lyra Suede (all colors), and Maria Joana. And of course there are some beloved favorites that have returned from last year, but let’s focus on what’s new. Per the usual, Mukishoes has a number of fun, colorful sneakers. I am particularly smitten with the Lyra sneakers – they are incredibly soft and cute. The Una Bloom is another really fun one, with a floral print. The Una sneaker has a higher walled outsole, so if you have wide feet you do feel the edges more. But for the most part sizing is pretty consistent for their sneakers.
A flats collection is new for Mukishoes, and they are very cute. Sizing is consistent for all but the Maria Joana. That one I find runs big and I needed to size down to a 36 in it. But the good news is that it was a very roomy toe box, roomier than their other flats and sneakers. Mukishoes sandals also have a pretty wide and generous toe box.
The Maria Joana and the Ibiza and Nazare sandals are wider than other Mukishoes and aaaalmost what I would call extra-wide friendly.
Vivobarefoot
Use code ANYASREVIEWS25OFF for 25% off until May 31
This month Vivobarefoot has increased my discount code to 25% for you, so if you’ve had your eye on something it’s a good time to buy. The Motus Studio Ballet is the new release that most caught my eye. I love an easy pull-on shoe, especially when it’s cute and feminine. They’re like a sporty ballerina, made to last with a soft leather upper and abrasion resistant outsole. I got my usual size 37 and they fit as expected for Vivobarefoot, which is to say they have a slightly slimmer fit with a medium width toe box (lots of big toe space though!) and sloped shape to them.
Also new this year if the Ora sandal. It gives chunky dad vibes, but they’re really light and flexible. The outsole has an all-terrain tread pattern on it that works for everyday use as well as on the trails. The straps are soft and don’t pinch anywhere, but I do have to tighten them a lot on my low volume feet. It’s a good sport sandal. Vivobarefoot nails that sporty athleisure look really well, and of course they’re designed to be super functional.
Dolfie Paradise
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
This new floral lace up shoe is bright and funky, and they have a bit of extra cushion compared to other barefoot brands. I have been impatiently waiting for them to get their restocks in (mostly everything has been out of stock for a while), and this is the first one of the bunch to arrive!
Dolfie sizing has been true for me so far, and I’ve had a good experience with their quality and feel. The toe box is pretty wide, but not quite extra wide. They come with two insole options, one with a good amount of cushion and the other thinner. This also makes them adjustable for high and low volume feet. They are a bit blocky/wide through the heel (unisex sizing), but the laces help keep the shoe secure.
Baer Shoes
Baer Shoes (Germany) is a unique brand in this list because they offer both barefoot and non-barefoot wide toe box shoes. And they focus on lifestyle shoes, making them one of the only options where you can find truly anatomically shaped but not barefoot dress shoes.
The t-bar Mary Jane above left is a “not barefoot” shoe with a cushioned insole that has light molding and extra heel padding, while still being flexible enough that you can move in them. The boat shoes on the right are from their true barefoot line and are totally flat, thin, and flexible. And it nails the boat shoe style perfectly.
I have found the sizing to be consistently slightly big. I typically wear a 37 in close toed shoes, which is what I got in all my pair, and most of them are just a bit loose on my low volume feet. I don’t think I would size down though (except in the sandals). Fit wise, they are medium wide and suitable for an average foot type. I don’t recommend them for extra wide feet. But quality and feel is great!
Ohne Project Spring – Extra Wide Option
Use code ANYAOP10 for 10% off
So many adorable colors! I featured the Project 080 Wide last month (which is an excellent extra wide sneaker), but I couldn’t resist highlighting Ohne again this month because they keep releasing pretty things. I love the Flamingo Project 070 color.
I’m also a huge fan of the new Kima sneakerina colorways. This model has an extra wide fit, but runs a bit short. So in my usual size 37 my toes go to the front, and they are also loose. I recommend them for wider, higher volume feet in one size up. I wish they fit me better, because I love them.
Read my Ohne Project review for more in-depth brand info.
Origo T-Strap
Use code ANYA for 10% off
Adorable, and fresh in the barefoot shoe world. As soon as I saw these launch I had to try them! They are adorable! I got them in my usual Origo flat size (women’s 6.5). They do fit slightly snugger in the toe box compared to their other models, but still the correct size for me. And the leather is relaxing already to give me a little bit more. However, I would still recommend these for medium-width feet, in your usual size.
Origo also have a new powder blue Mary Jane out. Read my Origo Mary Jane review for more details!
Splay Shoes
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Splay has relaunched some of their core collection models with a better fit and feel. The Runner V1 (pink shoe above) now has a more flexible and soft feel, which makes them a lot more comfortable. And they provide a decent amount of cushion for people who don’t want a thin sole. The other updated models are softer around the collar and lace up better on medium and lower volume feet. Most models are best suited for a medium to slightly wide foot, but the Rev Series has a wider fit.
Note on Rev Series – these are designed to be extra robust and durable, but be advised that they run about a half size big.
Zara
As soon as these launched I started getting questions about them! So I ordered two pairs to try out. They are a much better deal for Europeans, but still not too bad in the US.
Firstly, they are very cute. The quality seems pretty good. And they have a medium amount of cushioning. Sizing, they are on the long side in my size 37, but a pretty solid width. Not extra wide friendly, but not slim either. However I kind of need to slide my heel forward so that my foot falls in the correct spot in the toe box. A centimeter could be cut off the heel and then they’d be perfect. That being said, they are still comfortable and I am enjoying them.
Fleeters
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Fleeters (an EU brand) now has US distribution, and they are going to be at the Barefoot Shoe Expo for the first time this year! This is also my first time trying Fleeters on my own feet. I am pretty excited about this color combo.
Width wise, they fit my toes well and are secure. They’re padded on top which makes cinching them down a little difficult, and I feel some downward pressure on my toes. But overall, my usual size is a good fit and I have been enjoying them. They definitely make me look like the cool mom at soccer games!
Rutsu
Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 15% off.
Rutsu is a newish brand in the US that focuses on affordable options. I tried out their sandals and am pretty pleased with them for the price. They are very light, soft, and soooo flexible. The insole is soft and has a bit of squish to it. It also really moves with you. They are made entirely of synthetic materials, but they feel better to me than most.
I got a Women’s 6, which Rutsu translates to an EU 37, and they ended up being kinda big for me. The toe loop has extra space and one is bigger than the other, which seems to be a minor production defect. The sole is also a little long for me. Side bar – I always check to see how the brands convert their sizes into EU, because typically my EU size is the most consistent. In this case, this is the smallest size offered, so I wasn’t able to size down.
For the price (especially after my discount code) they are a nice sandal, and cute too. Rutsu also recently released a non-slip work shoe that I have not yet tried.
Libertas Barellinas – Extra Wide Friendly
Use code ANYA15 for 15% off
Libertas (in Spain) came out with a new sneaker recently that is extremely soft, flexible, and also wide in the forefoot! They have a nice secure fit, so your toes get to enjoy the width while your heel is snug as a bug. The upper is cushy and somewhat padded, which makes for a fit on the lower volume side. Overall I really like them! I got my usual size 37.
I do have one minor gripe (don’t I always?). The inside is somewhat slippery and when worn with my favorite Creepers socks my foot slides to the front of the shoe. It’s much better when worn with a cotton sock, but still slightly slippery.
Lems Spring Collection – Extra Wide Friendly
In the EU? Shop the Lems EU Spring Collection here.
This spring Lems is mostly adding new colorways and variations of existing models. Lems is a great brand for people who want the wide toe box but aren’t fully into barefoot shoes, or who just want some extra cushion now and again. I personally love the Primal Zen sneaker – they fit almost everyone and are ridiculously comfortable. And the new mint (shown on me above left) is a nice neutral but interesting color.
Also, the Switchback sandal was released in a knit version and in some really fun and funky colorways. Prism comes with both a pink and a purple strap you can swap out on your sandals! Aesthetically, I am in love! The Switchback is not a barefoot sandal since it has a few millimeter heel lift and a bit stiffer sole than the Zen sneakers, but it has all the toe space. So these are good for someone who wants a lighter, more natural hiking sandal experience without being full-on barefoot shoe.
Another note about the Switchback – they only come in full sizes, and I am smack in between a 6 and a 7. I ended up going with the larger size 7, because the 6 just felt too small. But the large is a little big for me. My other complaint is that the metal buckle on the inside presses on my foot more than the original Switchback does.
In addition to these, they’ve also added some new trail shoes in their Wide shape (which fits medium wide and not extra wide). These are more in the wide, but not barefoot category because they are also not fully zero drop and a bit stiff. But far more naturally fitting than most trail shoes! I am finding the Mesh to be very comfortable. I will be testing these more thoroughly before updating my Best Barefoot & Foot-Shaped Hiking Shoes article. And they semi-recently brought back the Mariner boat shoe! A bit masculine for my taste, but Justin loves them.
With the exception of the sandals, I size up to a women’s 7.5 in everything Lems because I find they run a bit on the small side.
15 thoughts on “Spring 2026 Favorites, But Make it Barefoot Shoes.”
It seems the Rutsu sandal is vegan. I wish they had a leather version.
They used to be leather. The cork insole is also synthetic. :/
I knew the straps were synthetic (a given at the price point), but did not realize the insole was not real cork!?
My overall opinion of Rutsu so far has been positive. I have the Skin.02 sandal with leather. It was originally sold as unisex and came in larger sizes. I’d believe is real cork. The footbed is almost exactly the same as the Mukishoes Solstice in feel and appearance. I’ve not had much of a chance to wear them – I only discovered the brand this winter and we haven’t had many warm days that weren’t rainy. They seem OK, but the leather is thin and not really reinforced so I’m not sure of long-term durability.
I also bought the new Nature sandals and they’ve disappeared from the site almost immediately. Apparently addressing some quality issues? I haven’t done much more than try mine on and walk around the house, but they seem also to be alright and I like the outsole a lot. Also hoping they hold up, but not sure of long-term durability yet.
I have the Earth Leather high tops. These are sneakers with a 70% synthetic/30% leather blend. They kinda look like leather boots and I got a little rougher on them than I would a sneaker (we’ve had a lot of severe weather this spring and I’ve had flooding and property damage to clean up). I have ripped a pull-loop, but I’ll take the blame for that. It isn’t a thick, stitched leather like I used to on a work boot and I probably should have taken the time to loosen the laces more. Otherwise, I’m fairly impressed. They’re comfortable and flexible. I have gotten these completely wet. They aren’t waterproof, but You can brush them after they dry and the material goes back to a normal look and feel. Cork insoles!
I have the all-black low top sneakers. They’re seriously amazing quality and super comfortable. The sole has good grip and side-stitching. The panels overlap in a way that reinforces the toe and give the shoes a strong, durable feel and remains flexible and mobile. They come with a cork insoles that are comfortable with or without socks. I seriously kind of prefer these to my old Lem’s Chillums, which sell for $50 more. The Lem’s have a bit more width in the toe box, but the Rutsu has a lower stack height and the outsole is grippier and sewn on. For the price, these are actually a really amazing quality sneaker.
Last comment is that if you’re looking for a lightweight cotton toe sock, they have 5 colors and 2 sizes and they’re $10/pair, cheaper with sales or Anya’s code. And since I’ve made my first purchase, I’ve seen a fair amount of opportunities to get orders for 10%, 15%, and even 20% off.
Will the Mukishoes Maria Joana be available at the Anya’s shop?
Not this year, but we may next spring.
Vegans have so few shoe options let us have at least some
I can’t find the Shapen Neeja in wide on their website. Is there a secret way to get them in wide??
So sorry Erin, it seems we were mistaken and the Neeja only comes in one width!
I really wanted to love my Ohne shoes because the style is spot on, but I have to share a warning for fellow barefoot enthusiasts.
I’ve been wearing barefoot shoes for over two years, and during that time, a mild bunion I had actually completely corrected itself. Unfortunately, after switching to Ohne, it has started to flare up again.
The real issue is the toe box volume. While the shoes are wide enough, the “ceiling” is incredibly low. There’s almost no vertical space, which forces my big toe to stay in a constant “scrunched” position. I’ve even gone through several pairs of socks because my toes are constantly rubbing against the top of the shoe.
I reached out to the brand, but they mentioned that since they haven’t heard this from others, it might not be a priority. However, if you are someone who transitioned to barefoot footwear for foot health or to fix bunion issues, be aware that the low-profile fit might be counterproductive.
It’s a shame because the quality otherwise is great, but a true barefoot shoe shouldn’t compromise on toe space—vertically or horizontally.
Eager to see how the wide Shapen compare. Regular width shaped have fit me fabulously in other shoes, and I was really tempted to buy these ones, but don’t live someplace for which they allow returns.
I am in love with the Shapen Festa and want to order them, but am concerned about sizing, since I can’t return them (I wish you were carrying them!). I have the Poppy, Petal, and Orchid all in 36 Regular, which fit well, although I have to admit the Poppy and the Orchid are not the most comfortable; they do kind of push down on the top of my foot after I wear them for awhile. I also have the Knitty in 37 regular, which somewhere I must have gotten the advice to order them in a bigger size. It sounds like that 36 regular is your normal size too, but you had to get the Wide in the Festa. I tried the wide in some of the other sandal styles, but it didn’t fit as well as the regular. In the picture on the post are you wearing 36 wide on both feet? It looks like you are swimming in them a bit, particularly on your left foot. I don’t know that I would be happy with them fitting like that. I too, have a right foot that is significantly larger than the left and I definitely don’t want the shoes to press into the top of my foot! it’s so difficult spending do much on a shoe and not being born to return them! Thanks for your advice!
I am wearing 36 wide on both feet in that picture. They are wide on the sides of my feet through the heel, but the regular width was too tight on my toes. And even though the shoes visually look wide on me, I can wear them comfortably in the 36 wide without feeling like they’re flopping around or going to slip off. It seems like we are wearing the same size in all the other Shapen shoes – I have a 37 in the Knitty as well, and 36 regular in the flats and sandals. If you want to avoid the Festa pressing into the tops of your toes, I am not sure the regular width would have enough room for you. But if you won’t like the way they look in wide… then sadly it maybe isn’t meant to be.
Thanks for updating with Shapen wide. I have to admit that the “wide” Festa look awfully wide to me, visually, and I think my toes may be narrower than yours, although I generally love barefoot-style shoes (like the Shapen Orchids) for allowing my toes to wiggle more. Any recommendations on whether the Festa regular width might work okay for someone who likes typical barefoot properties but has narrow toes?
They do look substantially wider in wide. Festa regular width I think would be appropriate for someone with narrow toes, but I can’t say for sure whether they’d work for you. They do feel slimmer to me in regular width than my Shapen Orchids in regular.