Clogs and barefoot shoes don’t usually go together, since traditional clogs tend to be stiff, heavy, and structured. So when Barebound launched last year with a clog as their flagship model, I was immediately curious. After wearing them, I can say they’ve done something genuinely different: a clog that looks substantial but feels soft, flexible, and surprisingly foot-friendly.
Key Takeaways (TLDR):
- Barebound offers something new and revolutionary in the barefoot world: stylish-looking clogs that are actually barefoot-friendly.
- True-to-size fit for medium-width, medium-volume feet (low-volume feet may prefer sizing down), good vertical space with no toe squishing from above.
- Made of high quality materials offering both a traditional suede or corn-waste leather alternative for our vegan friends.
- Flexible and soft despite thicker-looking sole.
- They’ve also released a nice-looking boat shoe, though I have not personally tested it.
Meet Barebound
Barebound is a young barefoot footwear brand that started with children’s shoes before expanding into adult styles. They launched just last year with a focused lineup beginning with clogs and recently adding a boat shoe. Their adult models are unisex and available in EU sizes 35-46.
With only a couple models so far, Barebound is still in its early stages, but the thoughtful execution so far suggests that they will be a company to contend with in the barefoot space as they grow.
What I Love About Them
Their design philosophy centers on combining natural movement with elevated, versatile aesthetics. Barebound leans into shoes that look substantial while still maintaining flexibility and comfort.
One standout aspect is their material innovation. Alongside traditional suede options, they offer a leather alternative made from corn waste paired with natural rubber outsoles. The result is a breathable, natural-feeling material that is eco-friendly and avoids the plasticky feel common in many vegan leathers while requiring minimal upkeep compared to real leather.
The shoes are on the pricier end, and because they’re currently overseas-based, shipping can be expensive for US customers (which is one of the reasons I’m hoping to carry them in the shop this year).
Barebound Clogs Review
Barefoot clogs are notoriously difficult to get right, because clogs are traditionally stiff, heavy, and structured, more like wooden blocks than natural footwear. Somehow, Barebound manages to land in a sweet spot between structure and flexibility with the Ikaros model. They look very much like a traditional clog but they don’t at all wear like one.
Visually, the sole looks fairly substantial (somewhat similar to brands like Lang.S) but on the foot it feels soft and flexible. The sole has a medium thickness, thinner than conventional clogs, but thicker than ultra-minimal barefoot shoes. This gives you a bit of cushioning which I appreciate sometimes, but may not be for diehard barefoot enthusiasts.
One detail I especially appreciate is the vertical toe height. Sometimes barefoot shoes squash the toes from above, but these provide enough space that your toes aren’t compressed – something that makes a big difference for all-day comfort.
These are surprisingly versatile. They can be styled casually with socks and lounge wear, as an everyday shoe with jeans, or dressed up slightly with a more polished outfit.
They come in multiple neutral color options and have a clean aesthetic that feels modern and classic at the same time.
Sizing & Fit
Barebound clogs fit true-to-size overall with:
- Medium width – Wider than slim barefoot brands like Vivobarefoot, but not extra wide.
- Medium volume – The top strap has adjustability but leans toward higher volume. Even on the tightest setting, it may feel roomy for low-volume feet, and tightening all the way can cause bunching in the material – not a good look!
- The heel is really nicely fitted compared to many clog designs, which often feel wide and floppy in the back.
Because I have low-volume feet with narrow heels, I found sizing down worked better for me. The extra space I normally appreciate in boots and sneakers felt too loose in a clog format.
Wearing them with socks or adding an insole also helps dial in the fit. The raised lip around the heel area provides enough depth to accommodate an added insole, and it also offers some extra protection from the elements. Find my favorite insoles here.
The back strap is adjustable and helps secure the shoe, but overtightening can push the foot forward.
Barebound Boat Shoes (First Look)
Barebound recently introduced a boat shoe called the Orpheus made from the same corn-waste leather alternative and natural rubber sole.
I haven’t personally tested this model yet, so I can’t really speak to its comfort or fit. But, it appears to follow the same design philosophy combining classic silhouettes with barefoot-friendly construction, and it’s overall a really nice-looking shoe.
Barebound Brave (Kids)
These itty bitty clogs are the first shoe Barebound released. I have not yet tried these either. They are very cute, but for small children I am quite particular about flexibility and a secure fit on the foot. So I want to be sure they meet my criteria before recommending. They come in sizes EU 20-27. If you’ve tried them, please let me know what you think!
In summary, Barebound is a thoughtful newcomer in the barefoot space. They feel special enough to highlight and fill a niche many barefoot wearers have been waiting for. Given how new they are, it’s likely we’ll see additional models in the future. I’ll be keeping my eye on this company as it grows!
Like the clog style, but want it in barefoot shoes? Check out my other top recommended barefoot clogs here.
