Made-in-the-USA shoes are hard to come by, and that’s especially true for barefoot shoes. But, there is one brand that is carefully crafting a full line of barefoot shoes: Softstar Shoes. 

I originally came across them years ago when I was searching for leather moccasins for my oldest child. I wanted something soft and flexible as he was learning to walk, and Softstar moccasins fit the bill perfectly. 

Over the years, they’ve steadily expanded their collection to include everything from Birkenstock-style sandals and delicate ballerines to rugged hiking boots and their extra-wide Primal Amocs. 

In 2025, Softstar took another big step in growing their line through the acquisition of another US-based barefoot shoe brand, SOM footwear, which focuses on sneakers.  

In this review, I’ll share what makes Softstar Shoes so unique, plus my honest thoughts on the different styles I’ve tried along the way. 

About Softstar Shoes 

Softstar is a small, family-run company based in Oregon that has been handcrafting minimalist shoes for nearly 40 years. Their focus is on natural materials, traditional craftsmanship, and keeping feet healthy and free. Here are a few things that set them apart: 

• Made in the USA – Every pair is handcrafted in their Oregon workshop by skilled artisans. 
• Natural materials – They use high-quality leather, sheepskin, and Vibram soles, with many eco-conscious options. 
• Customizable designs – Many styles can be personalized with your choice of colors, trim, and sole. 
• Extra-wide options – Their Primal line is one of the widest fitting barefoot shoes available. 
• Long barefoot legacy – They started out making soft-soled moccasins for kids back in 1984 and have grown into a full line for all ages. 
• Handmade quality – Each shoe is carefully crafted in small batches with attention to detail you don’t often see in modern footwear. 

Sizing Reference 

Softstar using their own sizing convention, so be sure to check their size chart before you order. I’ve found their sizing very style-dependent, so recheck for each type of shoe that you order. As a reference, my feet are 23.3cm in length and medium width at just over 9cm.

Softstar Barefoot Shoe Reviews

Softstar Ballerines 

The Ballerines are Softstar’s take on the classic ballet flat, and they’re easily one of the prettiest barefoot dress shoes out there. They’re handcrafted from soft, high-quality leather that stretches and molds to your foot with wear. You can choose from their rotating collection of 3–4 seasonal colors or go all out with a custom design from over 40 different shades. My pair is the shiny platinum, which in person looks like a light gold with a touch of warmth. The simple, elegant design works well for both casual wear and dressier outfits. 

A thoughtful detail is the rubber patch on the back of the heel. It’s a spot that usually takes a beating on leather flats—I’ve had some get shredded from driving—so this extra layer goes a long way in keeping them looking nice. 

The outsole is a 4mm Vibram Cherry sole paired with a 5mm foam insole—one of the squishier barefoot dress shoe setups I’ve tried. That extra bit of padding makes them softer underfoot than many other minimalist flats. 

Fit and sizing: Fit-wise, the Ballerines are on the narrower side compared to other Softstar styles. The regular width has a slight taper and can feel a little tight in the toe box. They still have a lot more room than any of my old ballet flats and the leather is very soft, but my toes don’t exactly have room to wiggle. The shoe is also fairly low volume over the toes, so I sometimes feel pressure on my toenails. They do come in a wide width, but on my feet that option ends up feeling a little too roomy. I have a Softstar size 6 Regular, which is just long enough for my 23.3cm feet. 

SOM Footwear Mesa Sneakers 

I definitely can’t claim to know every barefoot shoe brand these days—new ones seem to be popping up all the time—but since the number of US-based brands is still relatively small, I was surprised when I heard that Softstar had acquired another American company…and it was one I hadn’t even heard of. 

That brand was SOM (Sense of Motion) Footwear, based in Colorado. They specialized in wide toe box, zero-drop shoes designed to handle the rugged terrain of the Rockies. With the acquisition, SOM’s sneakers will now be produced out of Softstar’s Oregon workshop. 

The SOM Mesa Sneakers are simple, casual canvas shoes with a moderate 15mm stack height (including a 5mm removable insole—so you can pare them down a bit if you prefer). The toe box is fairly rounded, but the taper happens late enough that my toes don’t feel pushed in. 

I’ve been wearing them for the past few weeks, and they’ve been cute, versatile, and comfortable. While they wouldn’t be my top choice for hiking, they’ve been perfect for everyday wear and walks along our greenway. 

Fit and sizing: I have plenty of width and volume in these, so I’d say they’re best for medium-width, medium- to high-volume feet. I’m wearing size women’s 7. Softstar’s size chart gives recommendations by foot length range, but since I like a little extra room, I went with the size just above—as I was at the upper end of the smaller size.  

Primal RunAmoc

The Primal RunAmoc is one of Softstar’s most barefoot-friendly shoes, designed with their signature extra-wide Primal toe box. If you’ve ever struggled to find a shoe that truly lets your toes spread, this is about as wide as it gets. That said, like other Softstar models, they run low in volume over the toes. The end of the toe box is reinforced with a rubber layer for durability, which is great for longevity but also means it won’t stretch the way the rest of the leather does. Personally, I prefer a little more vertical space above my toes—especially in a running or hiking shoe. 

On the upside, they’re lightweight and versatile. The leather upper is soft and molds nicely to your foot over time, while the flexible sole keeps ground feel intact. 

Durability seems to be a mixed bag. I haven’t had any issues with my own pairs of Softstar shoes coming apart, but I did notice a few reviews on their site mentioning the sole separating. Since the Primal RunAmoc is designed for running and hiking, it may just be taking more of a beating than a casual everyday sneaker. 

Fit and sizing: Best for extra-wide feet but with lower volume over the toes. I recommend sizing up from what the chart suggests, especially if you like a little more room to work with. 

Camino Sandals

Softstar was one of the first brands to give us a minimalist take on the ever-popular Birkenstock Milano, while still staying true to the original aesthetic. 

The Camino sandals come in two versions: a 15mm stack height and a 7mm stack height “Lite.” Many barefoot sandals are ultra thin, so the 15mm Camino stands out as one of the few options for those who want a cushioned yet still flexible sole. This version is built with a 5mm Vibram outsole, a 6mm Vibram midsole, and a foam-and-suede footbed. You do give up some ground feel and flexibility, but it’s still far less structured than a Birkenstock—making it a good transition shoe if you’re not quite ready for super-thin sandals. 

The Lite version strips out most of that cushioning. While it’s thinner, it still feels a bit stiff underfoot compared to other barefoot sandals. 

Fit & Sizing: I’m wearing a size 6U, and they’re just long enough. Because of the foam topper, the footbed isn’t completely flat, so you lose a bit of usable length compared to the outsole measurement. Softstar’s size guide lists size 6U for feet 23–23.9 cm long, but I wouldn’t recommend pushing the upper end of that range. My feet are 23.3 cm, and they’re right at the edge of the cushioned bump. For the best fit, I’d suggest sticking to the lower half of the size range, and if you’re at the upper half, size up. 

Fireside Slippers

While I don’t usually look forward to cold weather, there’s something about sinking my feet into the warmth and plushness of a cozy slipper that makes me smile. And the Softstar Fireside sheepskin slippers are easily the coziest pair I’ve tried. 

These barefoot slippers are fully lined with thick sheepskin fleece, right down to the extra-fluffy insole. The insoles are removable and replaceable (Softstar even sells replacements on their website), which adds to their longevity. 

There’s no additional material in the sole beyond the leather and fleece, which makes them incredibly lightweight and flexible—but also means they’re best suited as true house slippers rather than something you’d wear outdoors. 

If you don’t need something with quite this much warmth, Softstar makes several other barefoot house slippers including leather moccasins for adults and wool slippers.

Moccasins and Ramblers for Toddlers and Kids

Softstar began in the 1980s with moccasins, and they’ve stayed true to that heritage. Their toddler moccasins are some of the softest, most flexible barefoot shoes you’ll find—essentially a leather sock with just enough structure to protect little feet. They’re ideal as first-walker shoes when toddlers only need a touch of protection. 

The moccasins come in a wide range of colors and can be customized for a fun, playful look. With a simple suede leather sole, they’re best for indoor wear or light outdoor use. Once your child is ready for a bit more durability, you can move up to the Ramblers, which swap the soft sole for a zero-drop 3mm Vibram Pyramid sole. Add a sheepskin insole, and you’ve got a cozy, all-season option. 

Like many Softstar shoes, the moccasins and Ramblers are highly customizable—not just in color, but also in width. You can order regular, wide, or extra-wide. Softstar’s “regular” already runs wider than typical toddler shoes, and the wide/extra-wide options are perfect for what they affectionately call “potato feet.” If you’re unsure, their customer service is great for helping confirm sizing. 

My son wore the Ramblers until he outgrew them, and they held up beautifully. They were easy for him to slip on, had solid grip, and even after the leather started to show wear, a quick polish made them look like new. 

Final Thoughts 

Softstar is a brand that really stands apart in the barefoot shoe world. They’ve built a reputation for handcrafted, made-in-the-USA shoes that combine natural materials, thoughtful design, and a barefoot-friendly philosophy. From delicate Ballerines to extra-wide Primal RunAmocs, there’s a sense of intention in every pair—they’re shoes that feel both personal and practical. 

What I love most about Softstar is the variety: you can find slippers, moccasins, sandals, sneakers, and even hiking boots, all made with the same attention to foot health and comfort. Their sizing options (including narrow to extra-wide) and customization choices mean it’s possible to get something that actually fits your feet, especially for those who may have trouble finding something that fits from brands with more standard sizing. 

That said, they aren’t perfect for everyone. Some models run low in toe volume, and the pricing is on the higher end. But if you value craftsmanship, ethical production, and shoes that let your feet move naturally, Softstar is one of the most reliable and versatile barefoot brands out there. 

The post Softstar Barefoot Shoes Review: From Extra Wide Primal Fit to Delicate Ballerinas appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

If you’re looking for barefoot sandals that can keep up with your active lifestyle—but still look good around town—Shamma Sandals should be on your radar. Handmade in Santa Cruz, California, these minimalist sandals are lightweight, durable, and fully adjustable to your feet. Whether you’re trail running, heading to the beach, or just want a more natural alternative to flip-flops, Shamma has a style for you. 

In this review, I’m sharing what makes Shamma stand out and breaking down the different sandal models I’ve tested. 

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on one of them, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, read our full disclosure.

Brand Overview: Shamma Sandals

Shamma Sandals was founded by Josh Styles, an avid runner who still tests all the models on the trails and roads near their workshop in Santa Cruz. From day one, the brand has been focused on performance; every pair is designed to move with your foot and let it function naturally. 

Shamma offers several sandal styles: a classic huarache design (common in the minimalist running world), a toe-loop style, and a flip-flop-inspired model with a back strap for a more secure fit. 

Vibram Outsoles 

All Shamma sandals are built on Vibram outsoles, which come in a variety of thicknesses and lug patterns to suit different needs. Vibram soles are known for their durability and ability to offer long-lasting performance while still maintaining flexibility. You can go super minimalist with the 6mm Warriors, or opt for more cushion and grip with the 13mm Ibex, which includes 4mm lugs for better traction on rugged terrain. I’ve worn Shamma sandals for years, and they were a game-changer in transitioning away from stiff, overbuilt hiking sandals (Chacos, I’m looking at you). 

The Leather Footbed 

One of my favorite Shamma upgrades is the leather footbed. It’s a 2mm layer of soft, premium leather that adds comfort without compromising ground feel. It’s not slippery like some leather footbeds can be, and it molds to your feet over time. If you’re planning to be in water a lot, I’d skip it—but mine have gotten wet here and there, and they’ve held up just fine. 

Repairable 

Shamma’s modular design means each part of the sandal—sole, straps, footbed—can be replaced if needed. So instead of tossing your sandals when one piece wears out, you can repair and refresh them. I’ve had mine for several years and haven’t needed any replacements yet, but if you’re logging high mileage and you’ve been seeing some hard wear, it’s nice to know you’ve got options. 

How They Feel to Wear 

Shamma Sandals feel secure and comfortable right out of the box, with no rubbing or chafing in my experience. With a quick strap adjustment, they hug your feet like a second skin. I know some people experience discomfort with straps or footbeds from other brands, but Shamma consistently seems to have fewer issues in those areas—so if you’re sensitive to hotspots, these are a great option. 

And despite the simple strap design, they stay firmly in place. If you’re planning to run or want extra hold on uneven terrain, you can always add the Power Strap to your Elites for even more security. 

You can see how Shamma stacks up next to some other popular minimalist sandals in this post on the best barefoot hiking sandals.

Coupon Code

You can use code BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for 10% off at Shamma Sandals.

Now, let’s get on with the individual styles in this Shamma Sandals Review! 

Shamma Sandals Review

Shamma Elite Sandals: The OGs

These are the first Shamma Sandals I ever owned, and I’ve been testing them since 2021. I’ve worn them hiking, for everyday errands, and often take them on trips with me. They were the only shoes I brought on a two week trip to Costa Rica (not on purpose, somehow my other shoes didn’t make it in my bag), but they performed perfectly from rainforest to beach. 

The Elite series is Shamma’s original huarache-style sandal built for running and hiking. They use a tri-glide and Velcro tabs for easy, secure adjustments with three separate adjustment zones. You can even add a power strap for extra security when running or hiking.  

These are minimalist sandals at heart, but you can customize them with a range of sole thicknesses, footbed materials, and strap configurations. My go-to is the Elite Maximus with a 9mm stack height and a leather footbed—it’s a nice sweet spot of ground feel and comfort. The Vibram Newflex sole has a zigzag tread that I’ve found is just enough for hiking dirt trails, and the rubber/EVA blend provides a nice amount of cushion and bounce.  

If you’re looking for a do-it-all barefoot sandal, the Elite line is a great place to start. The leather footbed adds a touch of softness underfoot and molds beautifully to your feet over time. And if you’re tired of all of the black sandals, the Elite Maximus now comes in the Tan Sahara colorway.  

Cruzers: Simple sandals for Adults & Kids

The Cruzers are another huarache style sandal, and they’re one of the most affordable barefoot sandal options out there, starting at just $60. They’re a stripped-down version of the Elite series, making them ideal for everyday sandals, beach shoes, or lightweight camp footwear. 

Built on a 6mm Vibram Morflex sole coupled with Shamma’s UltraGrip footbed, they offer light cushioning without any lugs. The soft nylon straps are available in black, green, blue, and red. Despite the minimal design, the Cruzers have two adjustment points for a dialed-in fit. 

If you’re after a simple, barefoot-friendly sandal for yourself—or your kids—these are a fantastic, budget-friendly choice. 

TrailStars: Toe Loop Sandals

The TrailStars are a barefoot answer to popular toe-loop sandals like the Chaco Z2. I’ve worn them for light hikes, camping, and everyday wear—they’re versatile, easy to adjust, and super comfortable.  

The toe-loop strap system is easy to adjust, and gives me a secure fit without any rubbing or pressure points. The straps themselves stand out for how soft they are; they’re made from Toray® Ultrasuede. If you tend to dislike sandals with straps that go in between the toes because you feel like the strap is too thick or pulls back, these can be a good option because the strap is laying flat between your toes, and it’s just going over your toe.  

I especially love the tan leather version, which feels polished enough to wear around town without screaming “hardcore hiker.” 

Pacific Avenue: Leather Flip-flop replacement

If you’re on the hunt for a barefoot flip-flop alternative, the Pacific Avenue sandals are a huge upgrade. These slip-ons feel like a minimalist version of Rainbow Sandals, with the added bonus of a secure heel strap to keep them in place. 

They’re available in 9mm, 12mm or 15mm Vibram soles, and the leather straps and footbed add a premium feel. These are great for the beach, around town, or casual days when you want something easy to slide on. They come in tan, dark brown, and black, and like all Shamma sandals, they’re handmade and fully repairable. 

Watch a video of the Pacific Avenue sandals review here.

Numa: Slip-on sandals

For those looking for hands-free sandal, the elastic straps of the Numa make them easy to slide on. I love these for the beach days when my hands are full, and I don’t want to have to drop everything when I reach the parking lot to slip on my sandals. These come in 5 different sole options, so you have a ton of choice! 

Watch a video review of the Numa Sandals here.

Fit & Sizing 

Shamma Sandals fit true to size and use unisex (men’s) sizing. For reference, I wear a Shamma size 6 based on my 23.3cm foot length, which corresponds to a women’s 7. The brand offers a printable size guide so you can be confident in your fit before ordering. 

Thanks to the fully adjustable straps, Shamma sandals accommodate a wide range of foot volumes and widths, from narrow to wide. Once you dial in the fit, you’re good to go. 

Shipping and Returns 

Most Shamma Sandals are made to order, with an estimated production time of 8 to 10 business days before they ship. If you’re hoping to get them quickly, just keep in mind that production plus shipping typically means about a two-week turnaround from order to delivery. 

Shamma offers free U.S. shipping (2–5 business days) on orders over $10, and also provides faster paid shipping options, including USPS Priority and UPS 2-Day. International shipping is available, with duties and taxes calculated at checkout for smoother delivery. 

They also offer a 30-Day Worry-Free Guarantee, which lets you test out your sandals and return or exchange them if they’re not the right fit. Just make sure you don’t modify them—trimming laces or altering the sole (like on the TrailStar or Numa models) will void your eligibility for a return or exchange. 

Custom Barefoot Sandals 

One of the perks of Shamma being handmade in the U.S. is that they offer customization options. You can keep it simple—like mixing and matching sole types, strap colors, or footbeds—or go more in-depth when you’re dealing with a specific need. A few of the customizations on these barefoot sandals include extra-large sizes, split sizing, a custom sole shape to better match your foot, or even different stack heights to accommodate for leg length differences. It’s a great option if you’ve struggled to find sandals that fit just right off the shelf. 

Final Thoughts 

Shamma Sandals has carved out a niche for people who want performance and freedom of movement in a lightweight, minimalist sandal. I love that you can customize the sole thickness, choose your favorite strap style, and even repair them down the line instead of replacing them. 

I hope this Shamma Sandals review gives you an overall understand of the brand, and which styles, straps or footbeds are the best options for you. Whether you’re training for a trail race or strolling a beachside boardwalk, there’s a Shamma sandal that fits the bill.

Code BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for 10% off

The post Shamma Sandals Review: Handmade Barefoot Sandals for Running, Hiking & Everyday Wear  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Clotsy’s debut barefoot styles include a sandal and a ballet flat, both made with a clean, minimalist aesthetic and vegan materials. And of course, they’re foot-shaped, flat, and flexible—just how we like them. 

Let’s take a closer look at the Clotsy barefoot shoes.

Brand Snapshot: Clotsy 

• Sustainable fashion brand committed to crafting enduring pieces that outlast changing constantly trends
• Vegan, recycled, and natural fibers 
• First barefoot shoe styles launched in 2025
• Based in Spain
• Code KELLY for 10% off

Barefoot Sandals to replace your flip flops 

These sandals are an elevated take on a flip-flop: they’ve got a casual, summery vibe but feel more refined than your average beach sandal. They dress up a pair of shorts, or pair perfect with a summery maxi dress. Made with vegan leather, they’re soft to the touch and lightly cushioned for comfort. 

They come in brown, dark blue, and silver. 

They’re a great match for someone who wants something simple and stylish, but doesn’t want to compromise on foot health or toe space. 

Fit and Sizing: As you can see in my try-on photos, I have extra space across the toe box, so I’d say these can comfortably accommodate wide to extra wide feet. The sole is nicely flexible and zero-drop, and they feel secure on the foot (unlike true flip flops)—no sloppy flapping as you walk. 

I’m wearing a size EU38, and the overall fit felt true to size for me. 

Barefoot Ballet Flats 

Next up is their ballet flat, which is made from a soft, lightweight mesh material or a vegan suede that gives off a sporty-chic look.  The elastic straps across the instep are a smart touch; they help the shoes stay put without digging in or feeling restrictive. 

These flats have a removable insole, which allows you to customize the volume and cushion. I have a higher instep, and I was able to wear these comfortably with the insole in, which is not always the case for me. If you have higher volume feet, you can remove the insole for a closer fit, or add a thicker insole for lower volume feet. 

A detail I noticed and appreciated is a little bit of structure in the toe box. It’s just enough to maintain the space above the toes so you don’t feel the fabric pulling and pressing down over your toes (something I feel often in barefoot ballet flats), but not so much that they look bulbous.  

The red comes in mesh, while the dark blue and light brown come in vegan suede.

Fit and Sizing: These fit my medium-width feet very well. They might be a little too tight for wide and extra wide feet. I’m wearing a size EU38, and the overall fit felt true to size for me. 

Final Thoughts 

For their first barefoot shoe collection, Clotsy has done a really impressive job. These styles hit the sweet spot between aesthetics and function, and I love that they’re vegan, flexible, and foot-shaped—with room for toes to move naturally. And if you’ve been following them on Instagram, you may have seen a sneak peak of their upcoming barefoot sneaker launch.

If you’re already a fan of Clotsy’s sustainable fashion, their new barefoot shoes will fit right in with your values. And if you’re new to the brand, this is a great entry point. 

I’ll keep you posted as I wear these more, but so far I’m excited to see another brand making stylish barefoot shoes that don’t compromise on comfort. 

The post Clotsy Brand Barefoot Shoes Review: Stylish Vegan Options from Spain appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Brand Snapshot: Mukishoes

• Foot Type Compatibility: Medium to wide width; medium to high volume
• Sole Thickness: 3.5mm outsole + thin footbed
• Best For: Minimalist purists, sustainability-minded shoppers, kids that love color
• Sizing: EU24–48 (varies by model)
• Price Range: €60–€135
• Coupon Code: KELLYMUKI for 10% off
• Shipping: Ships worldwide from Portugal
• Returns: Accepted within 30 days from EU and North America (buyer pays return shipping)

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on one of them, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

What Makes Mukishoes a Noteworthy Barefoot Shoe Brand

How Barefoot Are Mukishoes?

Mukishoes is one of the most barefoot brands on the market. Across their sandals, sneakers, and boots, you’ll find:

• Ultra-thin soles (typically 3.5mm rubber)
• Zero drop
• Naturally-shaped Toe Box
• Lightweight Design 

This is a brand that stays true to minimalist roots and doesn’t “compromise” with cushion. If you’re transitioning to barefoot shoes or used to thicker soles, Mukishoes might feel like a big shift—but if you love ground feel, they’re a dream.

Code KELLYMUKI for 10% off

Materials and Sustainability

Mukishoes is serious about using eco-conscious, natural materials:

• Uppers are often made from recycled and organic cotton, leather, suede, and wool. Additionally, they frequently use deadstock fabrics, which is a great move to reduce waste, but can also mean that they run out of stock and can’t restock the style.
• Outsoles are natural rubber
• Footbeds include cork, leather, and wool combinations depending on the style.
• Many models are vegan or plastic-free.

They manufacture in Portugal in small batches and emphasize fair labor and sourcing. The brand’s transparency and thoughtful material choices put them among the most sustainable barefoot shoe companies out there.

Durability

In my experience, Mukishoes holds up well—especially considering how thin and flexible the shoes are. That said, these are not bomb-proof boots. The shoes prioritize minimalism and breathability, so they’re best suited for urban wear, light activity, or dry conditions unless stated otherwise.

For the kids shoes, we’ve mostly used the cotton and wool uppers, which have lasted well, but do start to show some wear. For kid’s that are tougher on shoes, I’d opt for one of their leather styles, like the Nimbus Play. The soles also get worn down, but we haven’t had any get holes (see pictures of a well-loved pair of Mukishoes below).

Fit and Sizing

Mukishoes shoes generally fit:

• Width: Narrow to Medium
• Volume: Medium to high volume
• Toe box shape:
• Kids: medium to wide feet, average to high volume

Mukishoes has a size chart that lists insole length for both kids and adults sizes, which I’ve found to be accurate. This means I typically wear an EU38 in sneakers, size down to an EU37 for sandals, and size up to an EU39 in boots if I’m going to be wearing thicker socks. This is based on my 23.3cm foot length, medium width, and higher instep. My higher instep has enough space as is, but if I did want to add an extra insole for cushioning, they’d start to get a little tight. In this Mukishoes brand review, I’ll note any size particulars on the styles below.

Shipping and Returns

Shipping: Mukishoes ships worldwide from Portugal. Shipping to the U.S. is typically €20–25 and arrives in about 1–2 weeks.

Returns: Accepted within 30 days from EU and North America (buyer pays return shipping).

Coupon Code

Use code KELLYMUKI for 10% off your Mukishoes order.

Mukishoes Reviews

Mukishoes are simple, but recognizable. Their sneakers have their own distinct shape and style, and stand out for some of their brighter and bolder colors (though they have plenty of neutrals too). For their sandals, they’ve taken inspiration from some of the top trending styles, but put their own minimalist spin on them.

Lyra Sneakers

Suede uppers | EU36 – 46 | €130

I’ve been wearing some shoes with thicker soles lately, so slipping on the Lyra—with its barely-there sole—was a refreshing reminder of how much I love the feeling of unrestricted, natural movement. I recently added them to my round-up of barefoot alternatives to the Adidas Samba. The Lyra sneakers have an ultra-flexible 3.5 mm sole, topped only with a thin leather insole. I’m wearing the Theia in a pretty mint green suede, but they also come in white leather and suede.

Cloud Sneakers

Leather or cotton uppers | EU36 – 48 | €99 – €125

The Cloud is Mukishoes’ most popular version of their classic sneaker, featuring a clean and minimal design in soft, chrome-free white leather. This design comes in several other uppers, including cotton and hemp. It’s part of their core lineup and showcases the brand’s commitment to using high-quality, natural materials without compromising on aesthetics.

Like all Mukishoes sneakers, the Cloud sits on their ultra-thin 3.5mm rubber sole, offering excellent flexibility and ground feel. The leather is soft right out of the box, and the unlined interior keeps things breathable and lightweight. These sneakers pair effortlessly with just about everything—from jeans to dresses—making them a versatile staple if you want a barefoot shoe that doesn’t look like one. Fit-wise, they work best for narrow to medium wide feet with average to high volume, and the natural leather does soften and mold to your foot with wear.

Hightop Sneakers

Linen, cotton, hemp or leather uppers | EU36 – 48 | €99 – €125

Mukishoes’ classic sneakers come in a high-top version made with a range of natural materials, including linen, cotton, hemp, and leather. The colors and fabric combinations vary from season to season, but all feature Mukishoes’ signature 3.5mm natural rubber sole—ultra-flexible, zero-drop, and great for ground feel. These sneakers have a casual, understated look that pairs easily with everyday outfits.

Nazare Sandals

Suede uppers | EU36 – 48 | €89

Birkenstock-inspired sandals are everywhere, including in the barefoot shoe world. The Nazaré sandals by Mukishoes are one of the latest minimalist takes on the popular Birkenstock Milano style, and I’d say they’re my favorite of the bunch (find the whole round-up of barefoot sandals like Birkenstocks here).

Where Birkenstocks miss the mark with their thick, stiff, and heavily contoured footbed, the Nazaré sandals get it right with a much more minimal, natural feel. These have a 3.5mm outsole, plus a cork midsole and a suede insole.  

The straps are also made of soft suede, but they don’t feel too thin where I forsee stretching out to be a big issue.

I went with an EU37 for these sandals, and have consistently worn an EU37 in Mukishoes sandals. These fit medium to wide feet well and offer good adjustability to accommodate different foot volumes.

Ibiza Sandals

Leather uppers | EU36 – 48 | €89

I’ll start off by saying I like the Ibiza sandals a lot. I’ve been seeing some iteration of this design —with a toe loop, X-strap, and ankle strap —everywhere from Target to Madewell to a luxury brand that retailed over $400. These are a super cute barefoot alternative, and I was excited to try them.

Overall, they’re very comfortable. The leather is thick but unlined, so it still feels soft against the skin. The sole has a bit of bounce thanks to the cork midsole and leather footbed, which makes them feel like more than just rubber while still staying minimal. The total stack height is about 8mm, including the 3.5mm rubber outsole. 

The biggest question with these will probably be whether the leather X-straps fit your foot well, since they’re not adjustable. I think Mukishoes designed them with extra room to accommodate wider or higher-volume feet, which means they’re a bit loose on my medium-width, high-instep feet. The front straps pucker slightly (see the photo on the right below), which isn’t my favorite look, but they don’t feel tight or press on my toes at all. The fit still feels secure because of the toe loop and ankle strap.

For sizing, I went with an EU37. These fit medium and wide width feet well. I measured 10cm from strap to strap in front of the toe loop on my EU37s. 

Solstice Sandals

Cotton uppers | EU36 – 48 | €79

These Teva-style sandal are totally vegan, with cotton straps and a cork insole. The total stack height is 6mm, which provides just enough cushion. The front strap is adjustable, but still fits narrow to medium width feet best; these don’t run quite as wide as the Nazare or Ibiza sandals.

Soca Clog

Suede uppers | EU36 – 48 | €89

Revisiting Birkenstock for inspiration, Mukishoes recently released the Soca Clog. This style is similar to the Boston—or technically, the Tokio, since it has a back strap—but with a much more minimal barefoot design. Both the upper and footbed are made of soft suede, and like the first two on this list, it features a cork midsole that adds a touch of cushion.

They pulled in a lot of great elements from the original design, including adjustable buckles across the top of the foot and at the heel. I also appreciate the structured toe box—it helps the clog maintain its shape and gives your toes room to move.

The one detail I’m not totally sold on is the strip of leather that extends up the back of the heel by about 1.5cm. On traditional Birkenstocks, that area is part of the molded cork heel cup, but here it’s just soft suede and doesn’t really add function. I can’t help but wonder if a fully open back would have made more sense.

Sizing-wise, I think a EU37.5 would be ideal for me. I went with an EU38 (my usual size in their tennis shoes), and they feel a bit roomy without socks—but just right when I wear them with socks. They fit medium to wide feet and can fit adjust to higher volume. I have a high instep, and I’m using the smallest top buckle. 

Chelsea Boots

Leather or Vegan Cork | EU 24 – 48

Of all the barefoot Chelsea boots I’ve tried, these are easily the lightest—especially the version with vegan cork uppers. They’re also available in leather and suede, with material options varying over the years. Mukishoes has even released them in kids’ sizes, which is a great addition.

Because they’re so minimal and lightweight, they’re an excellent option for fall and spring wear (and even mild summers). That said, I wouldn’t reach for these in truly harsh winter conditions—they’re not built for deep cold or wet weather.

I chose an EU38, and they fit well with thin socks. If I wanted to wear them with thicker socks, I’d definitely size up. And if you have wider or higher-volume feet, you’ll likely need to size up for a comfortable fit.

Pantufa Slippers

Felted wool uppers | EU36 – 48 | €75

The Pantufa slippers are made from the softest wool I’ve ever felt—crafted from felted Spanish wool that feels luxuriously cozy. They feature Mukishoes’ signature rubber outsole, which is soft, flexible, and perfect for indoor wear. Overall, they’re a lightweight, warm, and minimalist slipper.

My only gripe is the elastic trim around the foot opening—it digs into the back of my heel a bit. I usually wear them with socks to avoid that, or just step on the backs when I need to slip something on quickly.

Kid’s Barefoot Shoes

Leather, cotton, or wool uppers | EU20 – 35 | €60 – €85

Mukishoes have been one of our family’s go-to barefoot shoe brands for kids. They offer the same lightweight, flexible design as the adult styles, but with a slightly roomier toe box—definitely a plus for growing feet. You can choose between velcro closures or elastic laces, and uppers come in a variety of materials like cotton canvas, wool (for winter), and leather.

They’re always added in new styles, but some of our favorites have been the Moss Kids with its high-cut, green hemp uppers, colorful eyelets and orange elastic laces, and the Nimbus Play with a low-cut white leather upper and velcro straps.

They also do a great job playing with color in a way that feels fun and fresh without being over the top. Most kids’ styles range from EU24 to EU35, but they recently added a toddler-friendly option in sizes EU20–23.

Final Thoughts

Mukishoes continues to stand out for their fully flexible barefoot shoes that combine eco-conscious materials with uncompromising minimalist design. If you value ground feel and thoughtful sustainability, Mukishoes is one of the most purpose-driven barefoot brands on the market.

Their sandals have become a real highlight in recent seasons, while the sneakers are perfect if you’re looking for an ultra-thin sole that allows for true natural movement.

I hope you found this Mukishoes barefoot shoe brand review helpful. Any questions? Drop them below!

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If you’re into barefoot shoes and care about sustainability, Origo is a brand worth checking out. They keep things simple and stylish, with clean designs, eco-friendly materials, and prices that are pretty reasonable for the barefoot shoe space. From everyday sneakers to boots and Mary Janes, Origo has a little something for everyone — all while keeping that barefoot feel front and center.

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What Makes Origo a Noteworthy Barefoot Shoe Brand?

1. Sustainable Materials: Origo utilizes Leather Working Group–certified leather and cotton canvas in their shoes. Their soles incorporate a plant-based biopolymer and thermoplastic rubber blend, aiming for lower carbon emissions and improved biodegradability.
2. Minimalist Design: All Origo shoes feature a zero-drop sole and a flexible, thin stack height ranging from 3mm to 10.5mm, promoting natural foot movement.
3. Affordability: With adult sizes starting at $78, Origo offers budget-friendly options without compromising on minimalist features.
4. Social Responsibility: For every pair sold, Origo donates to One Tree Planted, contributing to global reforestation efforts.

Origo Shoes Fit & Sizing

Origo shoes generally cater to narrow to medium-wide feet with low to medium volume. The toe boxes are designed to be foot-shaped but may feel snug for those with wider feet. My sizing tips are based on a foot length of 23.3cm with medium width and a higher instep.

Coupon Code

Use code KELLY for 10% off at Origo.

Origo Shoe Reviews

Everyday Sneaker (Gen 3)

Materials: Natural leather or cotton canvas | Price: $128 | Stack Height: 5-6mm

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Origo launched with the Everyday Sneaker — a clean, minimalist barefoot shoe available in both leather and cotton canvas uppers. If you’ve tried earlier versions, the Gen 3 update is a noticeable improvement, now 4mm wider than the Gen 2 for a more comfortable fit. The sole is nicely flexible, and the fully lined interior makes them comfortable with or without socks.

The canvas version is a solid budget-friendly option at $88. The leather models are available in black, white, gold, dark brown, and light brown. The browns in particular are a great business casual sneaker option.

Fit and sizing: Overall, these shoes fit narrow to medium wide feet best. I wear them in a women’s size US7.5, which Origo equates to an EU37/38. I wear an EU38 in most barefoot shoes, and I find these run a little bit shorter than most in the EU38 size.

Retro Sneaker

Materials: Natural leather | Price: $128 | Stack Height: 5-6mm

The Retro sneaker has the same fit and feel as the Everyday, but with a more vintage vibe, thanks to the leather patches and overlays.

Fit and sizing: Same as the Everyday Sneaker

Mary Janes

Materials: Natural or patent leather | Price: $130 | Stack Height: 3mm

Origo has a few dressier barefoot options for women, and they just dropped two new barefoot Mary Jane styles. Origo now has three options: a one-strap, a two-strap, and a three-strap with an ankle strap.

The Single Strap Mary Janes are my personal favorite when it comes to comfort. They’re made from a soft, natural leather that feels great from the first wear — no rubbing, no hotspots. One detail I really appreciate is the folded leather edging around the opening, especially at the heel. It adds a soft finish that prevents the kind of heel rubbing I’ve experienced with so many other dress flats.

This style comes in four colors: caramel brown, a pinkish nude (featured here), red, and black — all versatile options for everyday or slightly dressier wear.

They have a super flexible 3mm rubber sole and a removable insole made of foam with a leather top layer, which feels smooth and comfortable even without socks. You can remove it for even more width and volume. I already have extra room in the toe box width-wise, and just enough volume over the toes.

The Two Strap Mary Janes are made with a sleek, patent leather upper and come in black, teal (featured here), and burgundy. In real life, the teal looks more like a navy blue. The main thing to note is that these don’t have the extra folded leather edging around the opening, so don’t feel quite as soft where they touch the back of my heel and the top of my big toe. Otherwise, the fit and feel is the same as the Single strap Mary Janes.

The Three Strap Mary Janes feature three thinner straps over the foot plus an ankle strap. They come in patent leather uppers in black, nude, burgundy and red.

Women’s Derby Shoes

Materials: Natural or patent leather | Price: $128 | Stack Height: 3mm

The Derby is another classic dress shoe, and like all of Origo’s shoes, it has a simple, clean aesthetic. Origo continually updates and improves their styles with each new version, and this includes the Derby. The latest version has a slightly wider fit and softer leather that requires less break in. These come in black, Carmel brown, light brown, and taupe.

Fit & sizing:  I’m wearing these in a size US7.5, and they fit my medium width feet well. The lacing on the Derby means you have a bit more adjustability for wider or narrower feet.

Men’s Derby Shoes

Materials: Suede or Natural leather | Price: $130 | Stack Height: 5mm

Origo launched a men’s version of their popular Derby in 2025, adding thoughtful touches that elevate the style while keeping it barefoot-friendly. The 5mm rubber sole is topped with a leather-look welt edging, giving the shoe a polished, traditional dress shoe vibe without sacrificing flexibility. The design is clean and understated. The uppers come in black or brown natural leather or a light beige suede.

The leather is soft right out of the box and requires little break-in, while the sole strikes a nice balance between barefoot ground feel and a touch more structure than ultra-minimal options. They’re lightweight for a dress shoe, bend easily at the ball of the foot, and the welt edging doesn’t add any noticeable bulk.

Small details, like the waxed round laces, neat eyelets, and simple stitching, contribute to the elevated look. The leather versions should be easy to maintain with occasional conditioning, while the suede looks sharp but may need a protective spray to keep them clean and protect them from wet weather. Overall, they’re a versatile, comfortable option for anyone wanting a barefoot-friendly shoe that can move seamlessly from the office to more formal events.

Fit and sizing: Aaron wears these in Men’s US 11 based on his 26.8 cm foot length. The toe box is impressively roomy, making them a great fit for medium to wide feet.

Adventurer Boots

Materials: Natural or patent leather | Price: $240 | Stack Height: 3mm

If you love barefoot shoes for that super lightweight and natural feeling, then the Origo Adventurer boots are for you! 

The Adventurer Boots are part of Origo’s new Nomad line. They’re handmade in Leon, Mexico with high quality natural leather certified by the Leather Working Group. They’re unisex, and sizing goes from Women’s US 6/EU35 up to Men’s US13/EU47.

Leather is naturally water-resistant, and I noticed that the water rolled off these boots were splashed by the waves. However, these do not have an additional membrane to make them fully waterproof. They’d be fine in light rain, but would benefit from applying a waterproofing wax if you are going to be using them in wet weather often. Waterproofing wax both moisturizes and protects the leather to help them last longer too!

The stack height is only 10.5mm. The sole includes a leather layer for durability and the outsole is made from a rubber and agave blend that biodegrades faster under certain conditions (don’t worry, they won’t start breaking down in your closet).

Fit and Sizing: The boots have one of the wider toe boxes I’ve tried, so these are a great fit for medium to wide fit. I’m wearing these in a Women’s US8/EU38, which is a great fit for my 23.3cm feet with a midweight sock. Aaron is wearing these in a Men’s US11, which were a good fit for his 26.8cm feet.

Kid’s Shoes

My kids have been testing Origo’s barefoot shoes over the years too, and we really like their current lineup. The new vegan leather high-top sneakers are especially cool and on-trend; I love that there’s now a healthy, foot-shaped option that appeals to older kids too. They remind me of the Nike Courts I saw everywhere during back-to-school shopping, with classic laces and a velcro strap at the top.

Origo also offers a low-top sneaker with two velcro straps, available in both durable cotton canvas and leather. These are great for younger kids, especially with the added toe bumper for extra durability.

Fit and sizing: Origo’s kids’ shoes tend to fit best on narrow to medium-width feet with low to medium volume. My son had to open the laces quite a bit to get the high-tops on, so if your child prefers to get their shoes on quickly, they might lose patience. But once they were on, he gave them glowing reviews, for both looks and comfort.

Final Thoughts

Origo has carved out a niche in the barefoot shoe world by offering clean, minimalist styles made with sustainable materials — all at a reasonable price point. From casual sneakers to cute Mary Janes and rugged boots, there’s something here for a wide range of needs and personal styles.

If you’re new to barefoot shoes, Origo is an accessible place to start. And if you’re already a barefoot shoe enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the thoughtful details, quality construction, and commitment to low-impact materials.

Just be mindful of the fit — most Origo styles work best for narrow to medium-width feet, and they tend to have a slightly lower volume. But with the option to remove the insole or size up, you can often make them work with a little adjustment.

Overall, Origo delivers on style, comfort, and sustainability. I hope you found this Origo barefoot shoes review helpful; drop any questions below!

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What You Need to Know

• Really lightweight and flexible all over. No bulk here!
• Use both real and faux leather uppers, and both feel high quality
• Best fit for narrower and lower volume feet
• Shipping and returns outside the EU is expensive
• Use code KELLY10 for 10% off

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About the Brand

BLUSUN may be a newer brand in the barefoot shoe space, but the founders, Silvia Brindlmayer and Dirk Pfeffer, have more than a few years of experience between them at other barefoot shoe brands and in the fashion industry. The company is based in Germany and manufactures its shoes in Portugal. The goal for starting a new brand was to create high-quality and fashionable barefoot shoes with responsible and transparent production.

Code KELLY10 for 10% off at BLUSUN

Barefoot Features

Unlike conventional sneakers that often restrict foot movement, BLUSUN shoes are designed to support a natural walking experience. As a barefoot shoe, they have a flat and flexible sole, and a more naturally shaped toe box. Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Great Flexibility and Ground Feel – The 5mm sole allows for excellent ground feel, promoting balance and foot strength. On the spectrum of very barefoot to stiff, conventional shoe, these are on the very barefoot end of things!
• Naturally-shaped Toe Box – The toe box is naturally-shaped; they are best suited for narrow feet up to medium width feet.
• Lightweight Design – The shoes are overall very minimal and light!

Materials

BLUSUN uses high-quality materials that balance durability with sustainability.

The soles are made in Germany from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), which is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to abrasion.

The shoes are crafted in Portugal. Depending on the style of shoe, the uppers are made from leather (smooth leather, nubuck and suede), faux leather, and organic cotton. It was hard to tell which was real leather and which was faux leather between the models I got–a good sign that it’s a higher-quality, realistic-looking faux leather.

The insides are lined with organic cotton & microfiber to make them smooth and comfortable, even without socks.

How Do They Fit?

BLUSUN shoes are best suited to those with narrow to medium width and low to medium volume feet. Based on the shape of the toe box, these are ideal for slope and plateau foot shapes.

BLUSUN carries sizes EU37 – 43. The shoes are unisex, so there is no difference between the men’s and women’s shoes in the same size, though they do have a different color selection.

As someone with a medium width, higher volume foot, these are a little tight on the pinky toe in width, and a little low in volume over the knuckle of the big toe for me. My foot length is 23.3cm and my width is 9.1 cm. I usually look for shoes with an insole measurement of about 24.5cm, or 1.2cm longer than my foot measurement. I’ve been wearing the EU37, which has an internal length of 24.4cm. Because I could use a little more length, width and volume, I think I’d trying sizing up to an EU38 next time. I wear an EU38 in most of my barefoot sneakers, so as the EU38 seems like they’d be the better size for me, I’d say these fit true to size.

These do not come with a separate, removable insole. Because they are already on the lower end of the volume spectrum, I’d expect that most people likely won’t need an insole to help with fit, but keep that in mind when thinking about sole thickness. Without an insole, they’ll be a true 5mm, which is great for flexibility and ground feel. But if you are more accustomed to a 5mm to 6mm outsole plus an insole of 3mm or more, it could be a bit less cushion than you are used to.

If you have wider feet or fall between sizes, consider sizing up. You can check out the BLUSUN size chart here.

BLUSUN Barefoot Shoes

All BLUSUN barefoot shoes share the same outsole, resulting in a consistent fit across all styles. They showcase clean, classic designs in a wide range of colors, from versatile neutrals to vibrant, bold hues (like hot pink, bright blue, and hi lighter yellow). Let’s get started on the unique styles in this BLUSUN barefoot shoes review!

BLSN 200

The BLSN 200 style features a the T-shaped overlay on the toe box for a retro aesthetic (reminiscent of the Adidas Samba). While some of the shoes of this style use all of the same upper material, some use a contrasting color or material to accentuate the overlaying patches. Some of my favorites are the green pictured above and the white/grey contrasting pictured below.

BLSN 500

This BLUSUN barefoot sneaker features a classic paneled design, highlighted by an overlaying panel that wraps around the toe box that’s often a contrasting color. This layered construction enhances durability while creating a fun visual contrast.

BLSN 100

This is BLSUN’s simplest design, with an upper crafted from smooth, unembellished material, creating a clean and modern aesthetic. I love that BLUSUN is pushing the color envelope on some of these simpler styles–you can get these in coral pink or a bold hot pink.

BLSN 103

This simple sneaker is a fully vegan option with the same design as the BLSN 100, made with organic cotton uppers. Pick from neutral colors like beige or blue, or opt for a brightly-colored statement piece with the hi lighter yellow!

Pricing

BLUSUN barefoot shoes are priced competitively for the quality and design they offer. With a focus on premium materials and a well-crafted barefoot feel, their pricing reflects durability and comfort without reaching the high-end luxury tier. The canvas sneakers start at $136, while the faux leather, leather, and suede shoes are prices at $159.

You can use code KELLY10 for 10% off at BLUSUN.

Shipping & Returns

BLUSUN offers free shipping within Germany for orders over €100. Shipping within the EU is 5 € for orders over 100 €. Shipping costs are 25 € to 45 € for countries outside of the EU. See their detailed shipping rates for all other countries here.

For returns, customers must send shoes back in unused condition with the undamaged original box. Customers are responsible for return shipping costs, or you prepay for a return label. The prepaid return labels vary by region, including €4 within Germany and €12 within the EU. For countries outside the EU, it ranges from 25 € to 35 €. See BLUSUN’s returns portal for all other return costs.

If you’re outside the EU, the shipping and return costs are high, so you’re going to want to make sure you get the right size! Double check my sizing comments, and let me know if you have any questions!

Final Thoughts

BLUSUN is bringing fresh energy to the barefoot shoe scene with sleek designs, premium materials, and a strong commitment to sustainable production. These sneakers are not just great for your feet—they’re stylish, flexible, and incredibly comfortable. Whether you’re drawn to bold colors or timeless neutrals, leather or vegan options, BLUSUN has something for everyone.

I hope this BLUSUN barefoot shoes review helped you get to know the brand, and understand if they’re the right shoe for you! Keep in mind, they’re best for narrow to medium-width feet…because barefoot shoes are all about finding the perfect fit for your feet. If you’re after a barefoot sneaker that combines fashion, function, and all-day comfort, BLUSUN is definitely a brand to check out!

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If you’re looking for affordable barefoot shoes that don’t skimp on comfort or style, Saguaro Shoes might just be what you need. Known for their budget-friendly options, Saguaro offers a wide range of minimalist footwear for all ages, from toddlers to adults. With a focus on providing the benefits of barefoot shoes—like improved foot health and natural movement—at an accessible price point, Saguaro has quickly gained popularity. Whether you’re new to barefoot shoes or a seasoned enthusiast, Saguaro offers a practical, affordable way to make the switch. 

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About the Brand

Saguaro Shoes is an affordable barefoot shoe brand based in China. They make a wide range of styles, including sneakers, boots and water shoes, from EU24 – 48.  

Saguaro has a highly responsive supply chain that quickly adapts to customer feedback and design trends. While they started out with a very basic athletic shoe that we loved (especially for kids), they now release a dozen or more new styles throughout the year.  

They offer affordable alternatives to in-demand designs from both conventional and barefoot shoe brands. Bestsellers often sell out quickly after release, and are not always restocked.  

The brand is pronounced suh·waa·row. In case you were wondering what that is, a saguaro is a tall armed cactus native to my home state of Arizona. If you’ve seen the standard cactus emoji, then you’ve seen a saguaro.  

Saguaro Shoe Basics

• Full line of barefoot shoes, including casual sneakers, athletic shoes, boots, water shoes, and rain boots
• Unisex, sizes EU24 – EU48
• Sole 5-6mm, 3mm insole
• Starting at $35
• Based in China, free international shipping available

Where to buy Saguaro Shoes, Shipping and Returns 

Like most barefoot shoe brands, Saguaro Shoes are sold online. You can purchase directly from the Saguaro Shoes website. Saguaro Shoes has several different language sites including Spanish, French and Italian. Scroll to the bottom of the page to select from the different flags on the bottom right corner.  

A smaller selection fo Saguaro Shoes is also available on Amazon. However, you’ll typically get a better price on the Saguaro Shoes website when you use the 15% off discount code KELLY15.  

For orders over $18, shipping is free. These are shipping directly from China, so they have a longer transit time (usually around 10 – 15 business days). 

Returns on new and unused shoes are accepted within 30 days, customers are responsible for paying the return shipping fee. 

How barefoot are the Saguaro Shoes? 

Sole types at Saguaro Shoes 

One of the best ways to which pair of Saguaro shoes would be the best fit for you is by understanding the different sole types. In this Saguaro barefoot shoes review, we’ll go over the brand’s most popular sole types. Overall, the widest and most barefoot options are the toe sole and the cactus sole. Most shoes come with a removable insole, which usually adds about 3mm to the stack height. Some of the shoes also have a glued in midsole that can make the shoe stiffer or more cushioned. 

These names aren’t anything official, I titled them up based on their design to make it easier to refer to them.  

Toe Sole – Widest Sole | 6mm | I called this the toe sole because it has an outline of each of the spots for the toes, though they are not individually separated like Vibram FiveFingers. This is the outsole used on Saguaros first style, the Smart athletic shoes. The rubber is soft and grippy, which makes them great for all kinds of outdoor activities. Because they are a softer rubber, my son experienced noticeable wear on the soles when he consistently wore them for running and playing on hard surfaces. They still lasted the whole summer for us.  Popular styles that use this sole: Smart II, Vitality III, Will II Lite, Vitality, Fast

Cactus sole – Wide Sole | 5mm | This is the sole used for most casual shoes. Aptly named as the stripes are reminiscent of a barrel cactus. When I compared the insoles, these are just slightly narrower than the toe sole. Popular styles that use this sole: Luck I, Agile II, Wish III 

Hiking Sole – Medium width sole | 5mm | This sole is used for many of Saguaro’s athletic and hiking shoes. It has a shallow lug pattern to offer grip, but it’s not so intense that it’s used on some casual shoes too. When I compared the insoles, they are the same as the Cactus sole, but they feel noticeably narrower when worn (specifically around the pinky toe). Visually, it looks like there is more of a taper there too. Because of this, it suits those with narrow and slope-shaped feet best. Those with wider feet can try sizing up for more toe space, especially in the boot styles. Popular styles that use this sole: Wish I, Nova I, Rise I Winter boots

Winter Toe Sole – Wide Sole | 5mm | This is a rugged update to the toe sole, with deeper lugs. The insole is the same width as the toe sole, but these have a narrower feel as the shoes are lined with faux fur. I go up one size in these compared to most Saguaro Shoes, considering both the lining and the use of thicker winter socks. Popular styles that use this sole: Will II winter boots

Kid’s Casual | 4mm | This sole is used on many of the kid’s more casual shoes, from summer slip-ons to boots. The summer shoes using this sole are very flexible, but some of the kid’s winter boots have an additional midsole layer glued in that makes them stiffer.  

Kid’s Active | 5mm | This sole pattern offers more grip for athletic shoes and hiking boots.  Styles that use this sole: Kid’s Brave

Materials and Sustainability 

Saguaro exclusively uses synthetic vegan materials. Most of the sneakers are made with mesh, knit, or suede microfiber. The boots use PU leather and suede microfiber. All Saguaro shoes are made in China. They do not provide additional information about materials sourcing or manufacturing.  

Durability 

Since Saguaro’s shoes are substantially less than a lot of other barefoot shoe brands, a top concern is the trade off in durability and quality. I would say that price is an indicator of quality—it’s hard to expect a $50 have the same materials and workmanship as a $150 sneaker. Overall, we’ve been happy with the comfort and longevity of our Saguaro Shoes. My son has used both summer and winter shoes as his main shoe for the season, and they’ve lasted the entire time. The use of materials like mesh, knit and other synthetics along with manufacturing in a lower cost location helps keep costs down.

Fit and Sizing

Since Saguaro’s shoes are substantially less than a lot of other barefoot shoe brands, a top concern is the trade off in durability and quality. I would say that price is an indicator of quality—it’s hard to expect a $50 shoe to have the same materials and workmanship as a $150 sneaker. Overall, we’ve been happy with the comfort and longevity of our Saguaro Shoes. My son has used both summer and winter shoes as his main shoe for the season, and they’ve lasted the entire time. The use of materials like mesh, knit and other synthetics along with manufacturing in a lower cost location helps keep costs down.I’ll share my fit and sizing recommendations based on my experience. My feet are 23.3cm long, 9.1cm wide, with a higher instep and narrow ankles. If you need to measure your feet, check out this guide. 

I most often wear an EU37 in sandals, an EU38 in sneakers and an EU39 in boots, but this can vary among brands and styles. I find that most Saguaro shoes with the Cactus and Toe Sole run true to size, and usually wear an EU38. 

Most Saguaro Shoes fit medium to wide width and accommodate medium to high volume. As they’re constantly releasing new designs and new soles, fit can vary between the styles. 

Saguaro Barefoot Shoes Review

We’ve worn many barefoot shoes from Saguaro over the years, and here’s a few of our favorites.

Casual Barefoot Shoes and Sneakers

Casual Barefoot Sneakers

All of these casual barefoot shoes use the cactus sole. Most of them have a pretty similar fit and feel, so it’s more about the upper materials or colors you prefer. The styles with knit or mesh uppers are great as breathable sneakers for summer. With the included insole, these have a stack height of about 9mm; this moderate cushion and the affordable price point makes these a great barefoot shoe for beginners.  

• Bliss I | $50 | super breathable mesh upper
• Agile II | $50 | stretchy knit upper with sock-like fit
• Wish III | $60 | faux leather and mesh for a sporty sneaker look
• Luck | $50+ | This is my favorite style from Saguaro sneakers (the pink and purple above), but some designs are currently sold out. The uppers are a stretchy knit.

Athletic and Hiking Shoes

Smart II Shoes

EU24 – 46 | Knit Mesh | Toe Sole| $43+

This was the original shoe that introduced us to the brand. Before Saguaro developed a whole line of barefoot shoes, they mainly sold this trail runner with a stretchy knit upper and a soft rubber sole. This toe sole has great flexibility and ground feel. My son wore them the whole summer, and they were excellent for hiking and outdoor play.

The Smart shoes come in adult and child sizes in a large range of colors.  These styles have a similar design and use the same toe outsole, but have slightly different upper materials: Vitality and Fast

Nova I Sneakers

EU36 – 46 | Microfiber Suede and Mesh | Hiking Sole | $70 |

The design of these sneakers reminds me of another popular barefoot shoe brand. The Nova barefoot sneakers use the Saguaro hiking sole that has shallow lugs. The uppers are made from stretchy knit and microfiber that creates a sock-like fit. They can still be tightened down with the laces for a more secure fit. They can run a little warm, and as they use the hiking sole, they feel a bit tapered (best for narrow, sloped feet).

Winter Boots

Will II Winter Barefoot Shoes

EU25 – 48 | Microfiber Suede | Faux Fur Lined | Toe Sole | $58+ | Splash-resistant

My son wore these in our cold but relatively dry winter last year and loved them. The Will II barefoot booties are lined with a faux fur that come up over the ankles, so they’re extra cozy. This year, they’ve upgraded to the winter sole with deeper lugs, which should provide even better traction. These are a great pick if you want a barefoot winter boot that’s lightweight, warm, and still has plenty of ground feel and flexibility. They’re available in both kid’s and adult sizes.

Saguaro Shoes labels these as “splash-resistant.” Some of the materials do have some water-repellency, but they they’re not specifically treated and there is no separate membranes. I wouldn’t take these out in heavy rains or snow, but as they say, they can withstand the occasional splash.

Ambition II Winter Barefoot Shoes

EU36 – 48 | Microfiber Suede | Cactus sole | $90

Fully lined with a fluffy faux fur and a taller shaft, the Ambition II are one of Saguaro’s warmest barefoot winter boots. Keep in mind that also takes up some space in the boot, so it can be better to size up, and may make them a tighter fit for those with high volume feet. These have suede microfiber uppers that have some water-resistance, but they’re not fully waterproof. They’re easy to slip-on with a convenient side zipper. I prefer these to the Ambition I boots as this version uses the Cactus sole with a wider and more natural foot shape.

Rise I Winter Barefoot Shoes

EU36 – 48 | Microfiber Suede | Hiking sole | $100 | Waterproof

The Saguaro Shoes Rise I winter boots are a cute and functional option for colder months that come in pastel shades of pink, purple and blue. These mid-calf microfiber suede boots feature waterproof materials to keep feet dry, while the cozy faux fur collar and insulating cotton lining ensure warmth. These use Saguaro’s hiking sole, which left my little toes feeling a little cramped–if you have medium width feet or above, you may need to size up in this style, or look to one of the styles that use a different sole.

Brisk I Rain Boots  

EU24 – 45 | Rubber | Unlined and Faux Fur Lined versions | $59+ | Waterproof

These tick all the boxes for a solid barefoot rain boot: they’re fully rubber and they have a taller shaft cinches at the top. They also perfectly align with the criteria I use for a healthy, comfortable boot, including a wide toe box, and a flat and flexible sole. As you’d expect from a rain boot, these are waterproof.

The rubber shaft is waterproof but pretty thin—if you get the unlined version, it’s a little floppy. But if you get the lined version, it’s warmer and has more structure. They recently updated the sole for more tread.  

Using the discount code KELLY15, the unlined boot is $51 and the lined boot is $60. 

Kid’s Shoes

Many of Saguaro’s barefoot shoes are the same for both kid’s and adults. There are kid’s shoes included in the above, but here are kid’s only styles, or ones where the kid’s version are slightly different from the adults.

Kid’s Agile Casual Shoes

EU25 – 35 | Knit Uppers | Kid’s Casual Sole | $46

These cute and casual slip-ons are the perfect shoes for toddlers. You don’t have to worry about laces, and the stretchy knit uppers are easy to get on and off. The Kid’s casual sole is plenty flexible, and even wraps up around to create a toe bumper.  The Agile comes in adult sizes as well, but the toddler and child sizes use the Kid’s Casual sole.

Kid’s Wonderland I Barefoot Shoes

EU26 – 36 | Suede Microfiber Uppers | Kid’s Casual Sole| $60

Idea for shoulder seasons like fall and winter, these barefoot sneakers feature a soft fleece lining. My 9 year-old loves that these look like a cool sneaker, but have the warmth of a winter boot. They’re easy on/off thanks to the side zipper, but if the zipper isn’t secured tightly with the velcro tab on top, it can sometimes come unzipped while being worn.

Kid’s Brave I

EU26 – 36 | microfiber and mesh uppers | Kid’s Active Sole | Waterproof | $70

The Brave boots are a great option for hiking and outdoor play thanks to the waterproof uppers and the use of the kid’s active sole, which has more lugs and grip. They’re easy on/off with elastic laces and a velcro top strap. They fit my toddlers wider, higher volume feet well.

Kid’s Jumpy Boots

EU26 – 36 | microfiber uppers | fleeced-lined | Kid’s Casual Sole | $69

The Jumpy boots are ideal for cold, dry winters. They’re a cozy, fleece-lined boot that uses the kid’s casual sole, which means it has a solid toe bumper. The side zipper also makes these easier to slip on and off. Note these are not waterproof. Since they are fairly thickly lined, they have less space available in the boot, making them better suited to kid’s with lower volume feet.

Conclusion

Saguaro Barefoot Shoes offer an impressive combination of affordability, comfort, and versatility, making them a great choice for anyone looking to experience minimalist footwear without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned barefoot shoe enthusiast or new to the concept, Saguaro delivers quality and durability at a price point that’s accessible for the whole family.

With a variety of styles, sizes, and designs, they cater to men, women, and children, ensuring everyone can benefit from the natural, flexible movement that barefoot shoes provide. While there are higher-end options on the market, Saguaro proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the benefits of minimalist footwear.

I hope this Saguaro barefoot shoes review helps you find a perfect fit for your next barefoot shoe.

The post Saguaro Barefoot Shoes Review: Best Affordable Brand for the Whole Family appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

I started wearing Bahé shoes last year when they launched their first wide toe box and minimalist sole trail runner, the Revive. They hit that sweet spot of not to thick and not too thin, especially when it comes to shoes you’ll be using to log a lot of miles. Bahe is continuing to expand their line of barefoot shoes, now with a hiking boot and sandals. Read on for a detailed review of the Bahé barefoot shoes.

Code BAREFOOTGUIDE for 10% off

About the Brand

Bahé shoes are designed to help people reconnect with nature, both through their minimal design and their grounding technology. The brand was founded by Kishan, a passionate runner, and Alex, a footwear designer dedicated to sustainability. Combining their expertise, they aimed to create high performance running and hiking shoes that foster a connection with nature, prioritizing both eco-friendly materials and grounding technology.

The brand’s first product was a conventional running shoe, featuring ample cushioning, a heel to-toe drop and a tapered toe box. However, after delving into the benefits of barefoot footwear, they developed the Revive trail runners, a barefoot-inspired shoe characterized by its zero heel drop, minimal cushioning, and anatomically shaped toe box.

For those curious about pronunciation, it’s ba-HEY, with an emphasis on the second syllable. The name Bahé is derived from Hindi, meaning ‘flow.’

How barefoot are the Bahé minimalist shoes? 

The Bahé minimalist shoes are designed with a generously wide, foot-shaped toe box. Among the barefoot shoes I’ve tried, they offer one of the widest toe boxes, yet the design remains sleek and doesn’t look overly wide.

The shoes in the barefoot line (the Revive and the Rediscover) are both zero drop.

The sole is reasonably flexible, with a moderate amount of cushioning. The stack height varies based on the style. The Revive trail runners have a 10mm stack height and a 3mm removable insole. The Rediscover hiking boots are thicker as these are positioned as a heavy duty hiking boot. The outsole is 6.5mm (including 4.5mm lugs), the midsole is 6mm, and the removable insole adds another 3mm. This adds to15.5mm, but with a few other elements in the shoe, like the waterproof lining, they end up more around 18mm.

This positions these shoes in the middle ground of minimalist footwear as most barefoot shoes typically have around 5mm or less of cushioning. In contrast, cushioned wide toe box shoes, like Altras, often have upwards of 20mm. This moderate cushioning makes Bahé shoes an excellent choice for those transitioning to barefoot shoes, starting to run in them, or seeking extra comfort for long walks or prolonged standing.

So, how barefoot are Bahe’s shoes? They rate high on the barefoot scale when considering their wide toe box and zero drop sole. They fall more towards the minimalist end when it comes to the ground feel and flexibility as these have more cushion.

See how the Bahé minimalist running shoes stack up to other minimalist styles in this TikTok video.

Please note that Bahé also offers a traditional-style runner called the Recharge, which features a tapered toe box and a heel-to-toe drop. The Recharge shoes are not included in this review.

What is grounding?  

Bahé shoes stand out even among barefoot running shoes due to the unique incorporation of grounding technology. While the primary focus of this article is to review these shoes as barefoot footwear, here’s some additional information if you’re interested in grounding.

Grounding, or earthing, refers to the practice of connecting with the Earth’s electrical forces. The Earth carries a negative charge, and when our skin comes into direct contact with natural surfaces like grass, dirt, sand, or water, it helps balance our body’s electrical charge. Typically, wearing shoes creates a barrier between your feet and the Earth, preventing this connection.

I personally enjoy spending time barefoot outdoors to feel soft grass, smooth stones, or beneath my feet. Being barefoot allows for a more immersive experience in nature and lets my foot muscles move freely. Proponents of grounding suggest that it offers benefits beyond the immediate physical sensations, with studies indicating potential improvements in sleep and reduced inflammation.

The goal of adding grounding technology to shoes is to retain some of these benefits while wearing footwear. To achieve this, grounding shoes incorporate materials that enable the electrical connection from the Earth to pass through to the bottom of your foot. In many grounding shoes, you might find a copper plug in the sole of sandals or leather loafers. However, for the Bahé grounding shoes, Alex and Kishan developed their own ground flow system, as a copper plug isn’t suitable for the sole of tennis shoes. You can learn more about this innovative design on the Bahé website.

Although there are still relatively few studies on grounding, leading some critics to question the evidence supporting its benefits, there’s no harm in incorporating this technology into your barefoot shoes, especially if it might lead to better sleep!

Bahé Revive: Minimalist Running Shoes

Construction and Materials 

The Bahé Revive barefoot grounding shoes combine the look and feel of classic running shoes with the distinctive features of barefoot footwear. True to the company’s commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly and recycled materials are used wherever possible.

The durable rubber outsole is abrasion-resistant, ensuring long-lasting wear—an essential quality for a reliable running shoe.

The uppers are made of 30% recycled polyester mesh, offering lightweight and breathable comfort. This mesh also has some water resistance, keeping your feet dry in light rain. For added durability, the mesh is reinforced with thermoplastic (TP) at the heel and toe.

The Revive is available in four colors: white, black, green, and sandstone. I’ve been wearing the white pair, and as with any white mesh shoe, they tend to get dirty quickly when hiking or walking through dust and dirt. I’ve hand washed them a few times with a shoe cleaner and brush (I recommend this cleaning kit), and while they don’t look brand new, they still clean up quite well.

Performance and Durability   

The Bahé barefoot shoes are incredibly comfortable and versatile, making them one of the sneakers I’ve reached for most often when I’m going to be seeing time outdoors. I’ve tested them in numerous scenarios, including a hiking trip in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, long walks on my local greenway, gym sessions, and casual errands. While they were a bit slippery on the basketball court, I would recommend them for almost everything else.

As one of my most-worn shoes for outdoor adventures over the past year, I’ve included them in my roundup of the best hiking shoes and trail runners.

Fit and Sizing 

Bahé shoes are unisex and available in sizes EU36 to EU48, which corresponds to US men’s 4/women’s 5 up to men’s 13/women’s 14. The shoes are currently available in whole sizes only. I’ve been wearing a US7/EU38 comfortably. They’re a little roomier than some other EU38s I have, but I personally wouldn’t want to size down. If you like a slightly snugger fit for running shoes, then you may want to size down. I would say these fit true to size.

These shoes are best suited for medium to wide-width feet and medium to high-volume feet. The Revive model features one of the widest toe boxes in the barefoot shoe market. In a comparison with the Altra Lone Peak trail runners and the Lems Primal Zen, you can see in this video that the Bahé Revive runners have a noticeably wider toe box.

I’ve found that many other barefoot runners are too tight around the top of my foot due to my higher instep. I was happy when the Bahé Revive shoes provided ample room, even with the removable insole included. This means they can accommodate high-volume feet if you remove the insole. For those with low-volume feet, you might need to swap out for a thicker insole.

Pricing 

Bahé Rediscover: Minimalist Hiking Boots

Rediscover Boots Basics

• Hiking Boots with lug soles and waterproof uppers
• Unisex, sizes EU36 – EU47
• 15 – 18mm stack height
• $249, use code BAREFOOTGUIDE for 10% off

Construction and Materials

I’ve been wearing these on hikes during my fairly hot and humid North Carolina summer, and have appreciated that they’re made to withstand tough conditions, but still comfortable on an easy hike. My gripe against most hiking boots is that they’re just too much–too heavy, too padded, too stiff, (and too narrow of course), that even before finding barefoot shoes, I never wanted to wear them if I didn’t have to. The Bahé Rediscover are different. They’re giving me all of the features I want, like lugs for good traction, waterproof uppers, and a padded collar, without adding so much weight. Add to that that they’re still pretty breathable, and you’ve got a solid, all-year round hiking boot.

The uppers are ripstop nylon, which helps make them both lightweight and waterproof. I even stood at the edge of the river with them half submerged for a while, and no water got in.

The reinforcements on the heel and especially the toe give me confidence in the longevity of these boots, and the knowledge that my toes will be protected from all the rocks and branches, even with a few clumsy missteps.

The Rediscover is available in four colors: beige, brown, green and black.

Fit and Sizing 

Bahé Rediscover are unisex and available in sizes EU36 to EU47, which corresponds to US men’s 4/women’s 5 up to men’s 12/women’s 13. The shoes are currently available in whole sizes only. I’ve been wearing a US7/EU38 comfortably with a pair of hiking socks. Remember that feet do tend to swell when hiking after longer periods, so I tend to like my hiking boots a little bit roomier than regular sneakers.

These hiking boots are best suited for medium to wide-width feet and medium to high-volume feet. I have higher instep, and can still wear these with the removable insole.

If I’m comparing these to the Revive running shoes, their insoles seem to line up almost exactly–the Revive looks the tiniest bit wider in the toe box. The outsole on the hiking boots appears longer, but that’s likely do to the having a much more built up outsole–the inside measurements seem very similar on both.

Ordering, Shipping and Returns 

Bahé is based in the UK. Their shoes are currently only available on their website, Bahe.co. They offer international shipping. Shipping to the US and EU is £15.

Any questions about Bahé? Drop them below.

The post Bahé Barefoot Grounding Shoes for Outdoor Adventures: Trail Runners, Hiking Boots and Sandals appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

When I first learned about barefoot shoes, I was looking for a casual sneaker to swap for my beloved Van Old Skools that were feeling too tight on the toes and clunky under foot. After slipping on a pair of Feelgrounds Original Sneakers, I knew I’d found the perfect replacement.  

About the Brand: Feelgrounds Shoes 

Since the brand originally launched their first pair of mesh sneakers in 2019, they’ve added knit fabric and faux leather uppers, plus a range of styles including trendier sneaker designs, high tops, sandals, boots and children’s barefoot shoes. In 2024, they are planning on expanding into barefoot athletic shoes.  

Feelgrounds has remained one of my favorite barefoot shoe brands to wear and recommend as they strike a great balance of style, comfort, width and flexibility. They continually improve their barefoot shoes based on customer feedback. Let’s find out more about the brand that is on a mission to “make barefoot shoes cool! in this Feelgrounds Barefoot Shoes Review.

Discount Code

Use code KELLY5 for 5% off at Feelgrounds. Find more barefoot shoe discount codes here.

How barefoot are Feelgrounds? 

There are a few key characteristics that differentiate a barefoot shoe from a conventional shoe. These qualities are what allow us to maintain a natural posturing and walking gait, even when wearing shoes.  

On a spectrum, Feelgrounds sneakers are on the “very barefoot” end of things due to the thin and flexible soles and wide toe box.

Materials and Sustainability 

Feelgrounds shoes are 100% animal free, and they use recycled materials when possible. They also note that their shoes are manufactured under fair conditions in Vietnam. 

These are the upper materials used in Feelgrounds Shoes: 

Mesh: Lightweight, breathable mesh made from recycled materials.  

Knit: Tightly knit material made from recycled materials. Breathable, but also includes a water-repellant treatment to wear in a range of conditions. 

Faux Leather: Water-repellant faux leather. It looks and feels high-quality. 

Durability 

I’ve been wearing Feelgrounds for several years, and with the improved rubber soles, I find Feelgrounds appropriately durable for casual use. My son also wore the new kid’s mesh sneakers for about 5 months until he outgrew them, and they withstood typcial child’s play. Mesh has the pros of being lightweight and breathable, but I could see a child wearing through the mesh if they tend to be rougher on shoes.  

Fit and Sizing 

Best For: medium to wide feet, medium to high volume 

All of Feelgrounds barefoot shoes are unisex. 

I used the sizing template on the Feelgrounds website, and opted for a size 38 in the sneakers. All of the sneakers use the same outsole, so you can generally expect to be the same size among the different styles.  

I double checked my size by measuring both of my feet and comparing to the Feelgrounds size chart. To find the best fit for barefoot shoes, the best practice is to take your longest foot measurement and add 1.2cm for space. When I do this with my 23.3cm foot measurement, it puts me  between an EU37 and EU38. I find I have enough room in the EU38 sneakers without them feeling too big.  

I have more space in the mesh and knit versions as there isn’t an extra internal lining. The luxe faux leather versions fit slightly tighter due to the additional tencel lining.  

The sizing for the boots may differ depending on whether you plan on wearing thick socks or not. Some may want to size up depending on how much room they’ll have.

> See a full guide on measuring your feet for barefoot shoes here.  

Shipping and Returns 

Feelgrounds is located in Germany and ships worldwide. Standard shipping throughout Europe is 3 to 5 business days via DHL, and costs €5 to €15 depending on location.  

Shipping to most countries outside of Europe is via UPS/FedEx. Shipping to the US costs about $22 

You can return unworn shoes within 30 days or receiving your order. Returns using a prepaid label cost $15, or you can ship back to the warehouse in Germany at your own cost. 

See the Feelgrounds website for full details on shipping and returns. 

Feelgrounds Casual Shoes

Original Sneakers 

The Feelgrounds Original are a casual lace-up barefoot shoe. You can get them in the mesh, knit or luxe faux leather uppers. 

The Original mesh and knits are the casual barefoot shoes I reach for most often. I love how lightweight and breathable they are, especially in the warmer months. It also makes them comfortable to wear without socks (quick side bar, whether you wear socks or not with your barefoot shoes is totally up to you. I can that question a lot. Just make sure that your socks are restricting your toes by opting for toe socks or ones with a wider toe box.  

I have a pair in white and one in black, and they go with just about everything. If you prefer more color in your wardrobe, they do have a range of neutrals along with some vibrant colors.  

KELLY5 for 5% off

Courtside and Courtside Mid 

Shoes like the Nike Dunks are all the rage right now, so much so that a lot of shoe brands have something reminiscent of these bold and contrasting sneakers. The Courtside and Courtside mid are Feelgrounds barefoot offering for this trendy style.  

The Courtsides are made using faux leather uppers and lined with tencel to keep the cool and dry. In addition, the Courtside Mids have a mesh tongue to help with breathability.   

The Courtsides have slightly thicker lining than Feelgrounds other shoes, so have a bit lower volume fit than the other sneakers, especially the mesh and knit versions.  

Highrise Sneakers 

The Highrise use the same base design as the original design, just in a high top version.  

Droptop Slip ons 

I previously mentioned that I replaced my Old Skools with the Feelgrounds Original Sneakers; the Droptops are a great barefoot replacement for the Vans Classic Slip-on Shoe.  

The drop top slip ons are better for higher volume feet and wider ankles. I have narrower ankles, and without laces to tighten the shoe, these are a little harder for me to get a good fit. If you need to take up some of the volume for a better fit, add in the Feelgrounds cork insole.  

Docks Slip-ons

These boat shoe inspired slip-ons are one of the newest summer barefoot shoes from Feelgrounds. They have cotton canvas uppers that are lightweight and very breathable, so they’re perfect for warm weather. The heel has a little extra padding, so they’re comfortable to wear with thin socks or no socks.

You can adjust the volume a bit with the laces, but after tying them once, I’ve mostly used this as slip-on shoes. They fit medium to wide feet best, and medium to high volume. I have a higher instep, and use their 3cm cork insole to fill up some space to get a better fit.

Snap Sneakers 

These are Feelgrounds classic sneakers, but a swap for three velcro straps instead of laces. They’re available in faux leather uppers. 

Feelgrounds Athletic Sneakers

Feelgrounds Move Sneakers

The Feelgrounds Move are athletic sneakers that are ideal for those who want a lot of flexibility, movement and ground feel from their gym shoes. I’ve been mainly wearing them at the gym for lifting weights and on the treadmill or bike.

The uppers are made with Tencel that is breathable and really stretchy. This means it has a lot of give and movement, so I don’t have any hot spots or rubbing, but it also means they aren’t for someone that is looking for their shoes to provide them with a lot of stability. This material can also be on the more delicate side, so I wouldn’t use them if you do a lot of exercises that would cause them to rub against a lot of abrasive surfaces. I’m keeping them to be used at the gym.

This heel collar has extra padding for comfort.

The soles are 4mm, flat from heel to toe, and very flexible with great ground feel. The included insoles add another 4mm of cushion.

These athletic sneakers have a similar width to the casual shoes above through the toe box. I compared the insoles and they were virtually the same width. They differ in that they can tighten down more to get a secure fit, which I appreciate in a gym shoe. If I’m not doing a lot of jumping or running, I’ll wear these without the insole as I have a higher instep. But if I am, I’ll put the insole back in for more cushion, and to get a tighter fit. You can adjust the volume quite a bit with the lacing as they have a detached tongue and stretch in the uppers.

I tried them out on a lot of different surfaces, and they had good traction on the flooring you’d find at the gym, like cement or wood.  I did wear them outside after it rained, and they were a little slippery on a downhill.  The outsole is pretty smooth, so I don’t plan to wear them in situations where I’d want lugs for more grip. For casual wear outdoors they’ve been great.

Sizing: These are available in EU35 – 49. I’m wearing them in an EU38 based on my 23.3cm foot measurement. The length looks and feels very similar between these and the casual Feelgrounds shoes. The brand has done a very good job with keeping consistency in sizing between the different styles.

Feelgrounds Winter Boots

Patrol Winter and Patrol Lite Boots 

The Patrol boots Winter and Lite Boots are the same boot style, but the Winter features a waterproof membrane, gusseted tongue and warmer fleece lining. The Lites are better for spring and fall with a soft microsuede lining. They are water-resistant thanks to the faux leather uppers, but do not have a separate membrane.  

The soles are 10mm, so thicker and stiffer than the sneakers. This offers some additional protection and warmth during the winter. The boots also come with an additional 3mm insole for added warmth and comfort.  

Chelsea Boots 

The Feelgrounds Chelsea boots use the same outsole as the Patrol boots. They have clean, simple styling and come in black, cream, dark brown, and a burnt sienna brown.  

The faux leather is water resistant, but there isn’t an additional membrane. I’ve worn them in light rain and haven’t had issues keeping my feet dry. You may eventually get water seeping in through the ankle elastic or at the seams if you walked through deeper puddles.  

I find that if I want to wear these with midweight wool socks, it’s best to size up.  

Feelgrounds Sandals

Seaside Sandals 

These unisex barefoot sandals are great for those with a wide toe splay. They have a classic in-between the toe strap design, which means they won’t be squishing your toes. The strap is thin and soft, so it’s very comfortable too. 

The sole is 7 mm and features a cork footbed. They come in a faux leather upper or cotton twill upper. The new Seaside Bamboo is a more sustainable option, with vegan leather made from bamboo fibers.

Pathway Sandals 

The Pathway Sandals have a sportier look and a slightly more rugged tread. Due to the length of the straps, they’re best for those with low to medium volume feet. Some people with higher volume feet have relaced the straps so they don’t cross across the foot to get more length out of them.  

Feelgrounds Kid’s Shoes

Kid’s Sneakers

Feelgrounds now offers a number of their styles in kid’s sizes, in EU 24 – 37 (US Little Kid 8 – Youth 6). 

The original mesh sneakers were redesigned to add more kid-friendly features, including velcro straps to replace the traditional laces, and a protective coating around the toe and heel to help with durability. 

Kid’s Arcade Closed-Toe Sandals

These barefoot kid’s sandals by Feelgrounds are a great-closed toe option. They’re breathable and light, but still have good toe protection, which is very nice to have for some of their favorite outdoor activities, like riding scooters. Plus, a lot of preschools and summer camps require closed toe shoes, but sneakers can be too warm.

It can be hard to find shoes that fit all different types of feet, but with these velcro straps, they fit both my toddler’s thicker feet, and my older sons lower volume feet.

Kid’s Boots

The Patrol Winter, Chelsea boot and Highrise with velcro straps are also avialable in children’s sizes. 

Feelgrounds Accessories 

Feelgrounds offers a few accessories to go with their shoes. Most shoes don’t come with an insole; I highly recommend getting a pair of 3mm cork insoles to go with your sneakers. I pop these in when I know it’s going to be a long day on my feet for a little more comfort. Plus, the cork feels really nice if I am going without socks in any of the mesh or knit sneakers.  

You can also get elastic laces, wide toe box socks and toe socks. 

Sales at Feelgrounds 

Feelgrounds does occasionaly have sales around the holidays. I post these on my Instagram stories. You can also check this section of the blog for a round-up of sales. 

Sole Update: Old Sole vs New Sole 

In late 2023, Feelgrounds changed the material they use for the soles of their sneakers to improve durability. 

Prior to that, they used a Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), a rubber-like material that processes like plastic. The benefit of this material was that it was incredibly flexible. However, they did experience durability issues. As they aged, they were prone to cracking, and those with certain gait styles may have seen spots wear down. I had my older Feelgrounds for several years, and while I did eventually notice some cracking in the sole when they were twisted, it didn’t significantly impact wear for me. 

As Feelgrounds listened to customer feedback, they switched over to true rubber soles in late 2023. This meant the soles were slightly less flexible, but much more durable, denser and abrasion-resistant. I found these newer Feelgrounds to soften up with wear and feel similar to the previous version.  So, if you’re reading any reviews that talk about excessive wear on the sole prior to 2023, just know that they’ve addressed this issue.

FAQs about Feelgrounds 

Do you have a Feelgrounds discount code? 

Yes! You can use KELLY5 for 5% off at Feelgrounds.

Are Feelgrounds shoes vegan? 

Yes, Feelgrounds shoes 100% animal-free. They use recycled materials whenever possible.  

Are Feelgrounds ethically manufactured? 

Feelgrounds are made in a factory in Vietnam that is part of the European BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) whose mission is to “enhance human prosperity, use natural resources responsibly, and drive open trade globally” (BSCI). The factory is also part of Better Work Vietnam, a program that implements practices based on core International Labour Organization labor standards. 

The post Feelgrounds Barefoot Shoes Review: Casual, Versatile, On-Trend Shoes  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Ten Little made a colorful splash onto the barefoot shoe scene back in 2020 with their simple but classic velcro sneakers for kids in a whole rainbow of colors. The vegan leather uppers now come in two shades of pink, two shades of blue, purple, red, and metallic silver just to name a few. Ten Little has expanded to include all the styles your little one will need, including sandals, rain boots, snow boots and slippers.  

About the Brand 

Let’s learn all about the brand in this Ten Little shoes review. 

Are Ten Little Shoes barefoot shoes? 

When evaluating a shoe for how well it aligns with the barefoot features, this is what I consider: 

1 How foot-shaped is the shoe? Ten Little shoes feature an anatomically foot-shaped sole. Based on the width of the toe box, I’d recommend for kids up to medium width. For wide or extra wide, your child would probably feel more comfortable in other brands. 

2 How flat and flexible is the sole? Ten Little shoes are zero-drop, so they easily check this off. The sole for the everday sneaker is decently flexible, and on a scale of the 1 to 5, with 5 being the most flexible (like a soft-soled moccasin or Wildling shoes) and 1 being a conventional kid’s shoe, these are like a 3.5. The soles also seem to soften with wear, so after a few uses they’re similar to a lot of barefoot shoe brands. They include a removable foam insole that is a few millimeters thick, which you can include for comfort, or remove for more volume and ground feel. 

The extra material on the sole does mean they are more durable, so they can be especially good for a kid that’s hard on their shoes or for use during a particular activity, like on a balance bike or scooter when kids are sometimes using their feet as the brakes. 

Materials & Design 

Ten Little shoes are all vegan. The faux leather on the everyday sneakers looks nice, maintains its color, and proved to be pretty durable for my toddler.  

The soles are natural rubber and designed to be non-slip.  

Different size shoes for different size feet 

To be more inclusive, Ten Little offers a few options, like ordering different sizes for left and right feet. Most people don’t have exactly symmetrical feet in length or width, but usually fit within the same size. If your child’s foot measurements vary more significantly, simply select different sizes for the left and right feet here. 

Velcro Strap Extenders for AFO or SMO orthotics or high volume feet 

Once again, Ten Little recognizes that one shoe doesn’t necessarily fit every foot. Their velcro strap extenders allow for more room in their minimalist shoes. These extenders can help those that wear AFO or SMO orthotics get a better fit. They are also great for kids with high volume feet that need longer velcro straps.  

Affordable barefoot option

With most pairs coming in under $50 (the everyday sneakers are $44), Ten Little shoes are one of the more affordable barefoot shoe brands for kids. For more options, check this list of the best affordable barefoot shoes for kids. 

Ten Little Fit and Sizing 

Use the printable Fit Finder of the Ten Little website to determine your child’s size. I’ve used this each time I’ve ordered from Ten Little and always ended up with the right size. 

Once you’ve ordered from Ten Little, you can use the size guide that’s printed inside the box for yoru next order. The insoles also come with sizing markings, so you know when it’s time to size up! 

Most styles are available in little kid’s US 6 – 13. The Youth Sneakers are available in US13.5 – Youth 4. They also have first walker shoes in toddler sizes US 3 – 6. 

Ordering and Returns 

Ten Little is a US-based company, and currently offers shipping to all 50 states in the US. Standard shipping is free for orders above $75 within the continental US. For orders below $75, there is a $6.99 standard shipping fee. 

You can return all Ten Little shoes for free within 30 days of your order. Orders made from November 1 through December 31 will be eligible for an extended holiday return window through January 31. 

Ten Little Shoes Review 

Everyday Original Minimalist Sneaker 

$44 | Toddler Sizes 4 – 13 for velcro | Youth Sizes US 13.5 – Y4 for laces | Vegan leather or canvas uppers

The Everyday Original sneaker by Ten Little is designed to be easy to put on and comfortable to wear. My priority is foot health first, so I appreciate that these have enough room for the toes and allow for plenty of movement with the flexible sole.  

I’ve never had an issue with my toddler wearing them, so for me that’s a good sign that nothing about them is bothersome.  

There are a few variations of these sneakers, including canvas uppers and high tops. For the larger youth sizes, they swap out the velcro for laces. 

Splash Sandals

US Sizes Toddler 4 – 13 | Retail: $39

Looking for a more foot-friendly version of Crocs or Natives? The Ten Little Splash Sandals are made from EVA foam, so they’re very lightweight and very flexible. The non-skid soles and a textured insole help minimize slips on wet surfaces. My three-year-old used them for a full summer and they held up amazing well, including the velcro. He used them for the beach, pool and splash pads.

Similar to Crocs and the Jibbitz charms, you can get extra charms to adorn the velcro strap on your splash sandals–choose from stars, rainbows and rocket ships.

Everyday Sandals 

$39 | Toddler Sizes 4 – 13 | Quick-dry uppers

We tried out these everyday sandals this summer, and I really like them as a sturdier-closed toe sandal option for things like riding bikes and scooters. The uppers are water-resistant and quick-dry, so you can wear them to the pool or the beach and not worry about getting them wet. 

Chelsea Boots 

$56 | Toddler Sizes 6 – 13 | Vegan leather uppers

Everything is cuter in mini sizes, especially boots! These Chelsea boots were a super cute addition to the Ten Little line up. The side zipper creates a wide opening to slip in chubby toddler feet. The outside of the heel has some extra padding, which creates a more secure fit.  

Rain Boots 

$46 | Toddler Sizes 6 – 13 | Rubber

What toddler doesn’t love jumping through puddles? These minimalist rubber rain boots hit tall enough that they’re great for wading through shallow streams and stomping through most puddles. We’ve worn these lots of time out in the rain, and even wading through streams, and never had an issue with wet feet—they’re full rubber, so that wasn’t a big question to begin with. These rain boots are surprisingly flexible, which means kids don’t have to lug around clunky boots and can just enjoy their time outside.  

Snow Boots 

$59 | Toddler Sizes 6 – 13 | Water-resistant uppers

When it comes to snow boots, my priority shifts to keeping feet dry and warm. Since this is the first season Ten Little has offered these snow boots, we haven’t had a chance to test them in the snow. The next best thing was testing them under running water.  

They may actually fare better in the snow as that isn’t quite as intense as water directly shooting at the boot, but I could feel the moisture start to creep in after they’d been under the water for 30 seconds or so. Based on that, I’d use these for short times out in the snow, or if you’re going to be on top of the snow, and not so much totally buried in it.  

The materials are water-resistant, but not fully waterproof, and that showed when I tested them. 

I appreciate that these boots are foot-shaped and roomy, so you can add thicker socks (consider sizing up from your child’s normal size or double checking the size while wearing thick socks). The soles are flat, but these are much thicker with deeper lugs, so they’re not super flexible. I’m happy to compromise on flexibility for warmth and traction when it comes to snow boots, especially as you’re not really going to have a normal walking gait when you’re tromping through snow anyway. 

The velcro strip up the entire side of the boot once again means these are easy to get on and off. The inside is lined with fleece to add warmth, and the toggle snow collar helps snow from dumping in from the top. 

Getting the perfect combination of barefoot features plus warmth and waterproofness can be really tough–we’ve got our favorite picks for kids barefoot winter boots listed here. Overall, I like the fit, design and features of the Ten Little snow boot, but they need to add a fully waterproof membrane to make these fully functional as snow boots. 

 Accessories and more at Ten Little

The Ten Little website carries more than just their minimalist shoes for kids– you can also shop related products, like socks, and tons of fun gear like play couches, scooters, and a child-size balance board.

The post Ten Little Shoes Review: Colorful Minimalist Shoes for Toddlers and Kids under $50  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.