Dress Shoes Archives - Barefoot Shoe Guide https://barefootshoeguide.com/tag/dress-shoes/ for happy, healthy feet Mon, 03 Nov 2025 19:50:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://barefootshoeguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cropped-Barefoot_Shoe_Guide_Favicon_Transparent-32x32.png Dress Shoes Archives - Barefoot Shoe Guide https://barefootshoeguide.com/tag/dress-shoes/ 32 32 Best Barefoot Loafers: Dressy, Casual & Vegan Picks https://barefootshoeguide.com/best-barefoot-loafers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-barefoot-loafers&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-barefoot-loafers https://barefootshoeguide.com/best-barefoot-loafers/#respond Tue, 23 Sep 2025 22:42:38 +0000 https://barefootshoeguide.com/?p=11885 From dressy leather styles to casual everyday wear and vegan options, find comfortable, foot-friendly loafers you’ll love in this round-up...

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From dressy leather styles to casual everyday wear and vegan options, find comfortable, foot-friendly loafers you’ll love in this round-up of the best barefoot loafers.

I used to have a pair of calf hair loafers that I thought looked so elevated and cool…but every time I wore them, they left me with blisters on my heels, red and pinched toes, and my feet tired and sore. The stiff leather soles had zero give, and by the end of the day, I was miserable. Looking back, I can’t believe how much discomfort I used to tolerate for the sake of style! 

It’s easy to see why loafers are such a classic. They’re incredibly versatile—easy to dress up for work or a night out, or dress down with jeans and a sweater for a casual weekend look. But finding a pair that’s both stylish and truly foot-friendly used to feel impossible.  

Lately, though, the landscape has been changing. Loafers have always been a wardrobe staple, but right now they’re having a major moment. From high-fashion runways to everyday street style, loafers are everywhere, and barefoot shoe brands have stepped up with their own versions of this timeless style. 

Over the past few years, I’ve tried a wide range of barefoot loafers, and this season, there are more options than ever before. Some of the pairs in my collection are well-loved staples I’ve worn for years, while others are brand-new releases that just launched this year. In this post, I’m sharing my personal reviews and insights to help you find the best barefoot loafers for your style and fit. 

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.

Tariff Note: Keep in mind, tariffs are currently in effect for U.S. customers ordering from brands outside the U.S. If a brand does not include the tariffs at check out, you may be contacted by the delivery company to pay these at a later date.

What Makes a Loafer Barefoot? 

At first glance, a barefoot loafer might look like any other loafer, but the difference is in how it’s built. Traditional loafers often have stiff soles, elevated heels, and narrow, tapered toe boxes that squeeze your feet. Barefoot loafers, on the other hand, are designed to let your feet move naturally

Here’s what to look for: 

  • Zero-Drop Sole – No raised heel, keeping your foot in a natural, level position. 
  • Flexible Sole – Allows your foot to bend and move freely with each step. 
  • Wide Toe Box – Gives your toes room to spread out instead of being pinched together. 
  • Lightweight Construction – Keeps the shoe feeling unrestrictive and closer to barefoot. 

The goal is a shoe that feels almost like you’re wearing nothing at all—while still looking polished enough to dress up. 

Sizing Reference

I share my size for each of these barefoot loafers as a reference. My foot length is 23.3cm with medium width and a higher instep, and I’m typically a size US7.5 or EU38. I usually look for an insole measurement that’s 1.2cm longer than my foot length, so around 24.5cm, but may go slightly shorter on a slip-on style like a loafer.

Now, let’s get to the list of the best barefoot loafers! 

Side views of the best barefoot loafers
Soles of the best barefoot loafers

Best Barefoot Loafers


Shapen Sheen in Patent Leather 

EU35 – 44 | $149 |  BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% of

Shapen Sheen barefoot loafers in patent leather and embellished with studs
  • Chic, dressy patent leather design with fun style options (leopard print, studs, etc) 
  • Plenty of space inside once on (good width and volume) 
  • Hard to get on, especially for higher volume or wide feet
  • Stiff patent leather has minimal stretch  

The Shapen Sheen loafers are a fun, eye-catching barefoot dress shoe option, but they do come with a few things to keep in mind. 

One of the biggest challenges is actually getting them on. The patent leather looks sleek and polished, but it has very little stretch, and there’s no built-in elastic to help with entry. I don’t have especially wide or high-volume feet, but I do have a slightly higher instep, and even for me it takes some wiggling to slide my foot in. If you have extra-wide feet or a very high instep, these might not be the best fit for you. 

Once they’re on, though, it’s a different story. There’s plenty of space inside—both in width and overall volume. Because the patent leather is a bit stiff, you’ll feel some resistance over the crease point of your foot, but it isn’t uncomfortable. I personally wouldn’t choose these for a day packed with walking, but they’re perfectly comfortable for regular wear and make a fun statement piece when you want to dress up an outfit. 

All versions of the Sheen feature a glossy patent leather base, but there are three styles with added personality: one with a leopard-print panel, one with studs (pictured here), and one with a subtle metallic pattern. 

Shapen Versa barefoot loafer in cream leather

Shapen also offers another loafer style, the Versa, which comes in both regular and wide widths. I found the regular EU37 to be a touch too narrow and low-volume for my liking, but the wide option felt a little too loose and insecure—especially for a slip-on style. That’s based on my foot though; if you have wider feet, the Versa in wide could be a good fit for you. 

Fit and Sizing: The Sheen uses the same dotted outsole found on many of Shapen’s sneakers and some of their boots. If you’ve tried those, you’ll likely find the sizing familiar. I wear an EU37, and they fit well both barefoot and with thin socks. The Sheen is only available in one width. 


Feelgrounds Loafer in Vegan Leather 

EU35 – 44 | $149 | KELLY5 for 5% off

Feelgrounds barefoot loafer in brown vegan leather
  • Classic and versatile penny loafer style  
  • Great overall fit 
  • Personally don’t think vegan leather looks as high-quality as real leather 

Feelgrounds went for a timeless penny loafer, including a newly designed zero-drop sole that features a subtle faux heel. This detail gives them a more traditional look while still keeping them fully barefoot-friendly.   

The sole itself is a bit more structured and slightly stiffer than Feelgrounds’ sneaker soles, but it’s still flexible enough to allow for a natural, comfortable gait. They also include a 3mm removable insole, which adds just a bit of cushion and lets you fine-tune the fit. 

Style-wise, these loafers are simple, timeless, and versatile—available in black or brown for easy pairing with both casual and dressier outfits. 

The loafers are launching September 25, but you can get early access using the password EARLY2025.

Fit & Sizing 

I’m wearing an EU38, which is my usual size in Feelgrounds shoes, and they fit my medium-width feet well. The fit feels very similar to their sneakers. Overall, I find Feelgrounds’ shoes to have a great fit; the width, volume and general shape is always just right for me. Since loafers don’t have laces or buckles to adjust the volume, I get the most secure fit by wearing them with the insoles in place. They’re comfortable to wear either barefoot or with a thin sock.  


Groundies Brisbane Loafers in Suede 

EU36 – 43 | $136 | KELLY15 for 15% off (limited-time coupon code)

The Brisbane is Groundies’ newest loafer, and one of my favorite styles. They feature the TrueSense Urban Classic sole, which is rubber, but looks a bit more elevated than most standard cup outsoles. The dark brown uppers are listed as “velvety suede” uppers, but they’re very smooth, and feel more like a nubuck leather to me. They also come in black nappa leather.

Fit & Sizing: Similar to many Groundies regular barefoot fit, these run on the narrower side. I wearing the Brisbane in an EU38 and can comfortably wear them with the included removable insole and with socks. Without the insole, they have a lot of space for a high volume foot.

Groundies Ghent Loafers in Suede 

EU36 – 43 | $100 | KELLY15 for 15% off (limited-time coupon code)

Groundies Ghent barefoot loafers in suede
  • Ultra-soft goatskin suede
  • Casual, lightweight feel for everyday wear 
  • Runs slightly narrow 
  • No included insole for adjusting fit 

The Groundies Ghent loafers take a minimalist approach with soft goatskin suede uppers that feel almost like a second skin. With the tan and navy color ways, simple design, and white soles, these loafers have more of a casual, simple vibe, especially compared to the dressier Groundies Brisbane loafers above.

They’re built on the Groundies’ TrueSense® Street sole, which I’ve found runs a little narrow. The Ghent barefoot loafers don’t come with an included insole, so I added my own to help adjust the volume and get a more secure fit. I styled the Ghent loafers two ways here if you want to check out the video.

At the time of this writing, these barefoot loafers are on sale for $70!

Fit & Sizing 

I’m wearing an EU38, which feels slightly long and a bit high-volume for a slip-on shoe. Once I added an insole, the fit improved and felt much more secure. I personally don’t want to size down in these as I’ll lose even more width.  


Ohne Project Luma Loafer in Vegan Leather or Suede

EU36 – 47 | $175 | KELLY10 for 10% off

  • Classic penny loafer or add removable tassels for flair   
  • Available in formal black or casual, playful grey and butter yellow vegan suede 
  • Higher price point at $175  

Ohne Project seems to be on top of every trend, from sneakerinas to samba dupes. Their Luma loafers can be worn as a classic penny loafer, or you can add the removable tassels for a bit of extra flair. The all-black version leans more formal, while the loafers in grey or butter yellow vegan suede with a white sole offer a casual, playful twist. 

Fit & Sizing 

These loafers use the same outsole as all of their Project 0X0 sneakers, but due to the design, they tend to run slightly large. While I usually wear EU38 in their sneakers, the EU37 fits me better in this slip-on style. 


BeFlamboyant Glow Horsebit Loafers in Vegan Leather

EU 36 – 46  | $181 | KELLY10 for 10% off

BeFlamboyant chunky wide toe box loafers with a zero-drop sole
  • Stylish details like fringe, horsebit, or contrasting colorways   
  • Removable insole for adjustable fit 
  • Chunkier sole can make the uppers look a bit squashed  
  • Requires some effort to get on

BeFlamboyant is a newer brand on this list. They’re based in Spain, and their vegan barefoot shoes are made in Portugal. Their designs tend to lean toward a chunkier, faux-thick sole aesthetic. With the loafers, this can sometimes make the uppers look a little squashed compared to a traditional loafer as the soles sometimes account for more space than the actual uppers.  The actual sole on the bottom is only 5mm, but the higher sidewall does make these a little stiffer than some of the other options on this list.

The Glow loafers are available in a few different variations. The black and brown pairs are elevated with fringe and a horsebit detail, while the contrasting versions feature a bold white center panel. 

Fit & Sizing: I’m wearing these in an EU37. They also come with a removable insole, but because the shoes have a lower volume fit, I find them more comfortable without it.Ohne Project Penny Loafers in Vegan Leather 

These loafers take a bit of effort to slip on—though not as much as the Shapen Sheen. 


BeLenka Viva Horsebit Loafers in Leather

EU36 – 43 | $140 | KELLY5 for 5% off

BeLenka barefoot horse bit loafers
  • Thin, flexible sole for a true barefoot feel   
  • Soft nappa leather with elastic panels for easy slip-on fit 
  • Runs narrower than most BeLenka styles
  • May not look as on-trend as other loafers on this list 

BeLenka offers several loafer styles, though they list them as moccasins on their website. My personal favorite is the Viva, thanks to its minimal sole and the horsebit detail, which give it a more elevated, polished look. 

While BeLenka is generally known for their wider fit, the Viva runs noticeably narrower. The Bianca and Rosaluna use this same sole, so they’ll fit similarly. The Viva is still foot-shaped, but if you have very wide feet, you may prefer one of BeLenka’s truly wide loafers, like the Buena or Aphrodite. 

These loafers have a thin, flexible sole with very little cupping, so they feel and move much like a traditional barefoot shoe (especially compared to some of the others on this list that are going for the chunky look). The uppers are made from soft nappa leather, and small elastic panels on the tongue make them easy to slip on and off. 

Fit & Sizing 

I’m wearing an EU38, which is my usual size in BeLenka sneakers. The Viva comes with a removable insole, and I find them comfortable with the insole in place. If you have higher-volume feet, you can remove it for extra space. 


Final Thoughts 

A good barefoot loafer should look sharp while letting your feet move naturally. With the right pair, you can dress up without sacrificing comfort or foot health. While you might look at style and materials first, it’s most important to consider the fit and sizing tips so you end up with a loafer that’s the right fit for you.  

Line up of the best barefoot loafers

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Shapen Barefoot Brand Review: Bringing Dressy Back to Women’s Barefoot Shoes  https://barefootshoeguide.com/shapen-barefoot-brand-review/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shapen-barefoot-brand-review&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shapen-barefoot-brand-review https://barefootshoeguide.com/shapen-barefoot-brand-review/#comments Mon, 06 Nov 2023 20:58:51 +0000 https://barefootshoeguide.com/?p=3705 If you’ve been finding many barefoot shoe brands too plain Jane for your fashion sense, check out Shapen’s dressier barefoot...

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If you’ve been finding many barefoot shoe brands too plain Jane for your fashion sense, check out Shapen’s dressier barefoot shoes like the Poppy or Lily. Shapen also has sneakers and stylish barefoot boots for both men and women.

About the Brand 

SHAPEN is a barefoot shoe brand based in Slovakia that initially launched with beautiful, stylish barefoot shoes for women. When the founder Mia realized that barefoot shoes would be an essential part of treating her scoliosis and joint hypermobility, she wanted barefoot versions of the shoes she loved. And back in 2017, the barefoot options for stylish flats, sandals, and high heel replacements were almost nonexistent.  

So Mia set out to make her own, and thus started the SHAPEN brand. If you’ve already heard about SHAPEN over the last few years, it was likely for the women’s barefoot dress shoes like the Poppy or Lily. But as they’ve grown, they’ve released other styles, including sneaker and boots made for both men and women.  

Code KELLY5 for 5% off at Shapen

Latest update: August 27, 2025

This post was updated in August 2025 to include the Mary Janes Coco and studded Sheen loafers released as part of the Fall/Winter 2025 Collection.

Barefoot Women's Dress Shoes from Shapen
Shapen Barefoot Brand Review: Stylish barefoot boots from Shapen

How barefoot are Shapen shoes?

When evaluating just how barefoot a brand is, I look at these features of their shoes:
1) If the toe box have a wide, natural foot shape
2) How flat and flexible the sole is

On a spectrum, SHAPEN are on the “very barefoot” end of things. The soles are thin and very flexible. The boots feature a 5.5mm sole, which is one of the thinner options for barefoot boots. They provide decent insulation while still being very flexible.

Most of SHAPEN’s shoes have a wide, naturally-shaped toe box. The boots and sneaker all come in one width, which I’ve found a good fit for wide feet. The women’s dress shoes come in regular width and wide width. I’ll include specific details about fit for each style below.

Wide, foot-shape of Shapen Barefoot Boots

Shapen Fit & Sizing 

Shapen’s barefoot women’s shoes are available in sizes EU35 – 44. Styles that are unisex, like their sneakers and some of their boots, are available in sizes EU35 – 47.  

Shapen shoes are best fit for: 

  • Medium to extra wide feet 
  • Medium to high volume feet 
  • Runs large, so I size typically down from my usual barefoot size 

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 tips measuring 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 Shapen runs a little large, so usually end up going one size down from this. This means I’m an EU37 in Shapen sneakers and EU38 in their boots.  In the sandals and dress shoes, I’m often an EU36 or EU37.

Ordering, Shipping and Returns 

Shapen barefoot shoes are available directly on their website, where they offer worldwide shipping. Note that returns are not accepted for orders outside the EU. Luckily, Shapen styles typically have a pretty high demand (and can sometimes sell out), so I’ve seen plenty of them resold on this Facebook barefoot buy/sell when the fit or sizing didn’t work out for the original buyer. 

Code KELLY5 for 5% off at Shapen

Shapen Barefoot Shoes Review 

Let’s jump right in to this Shapen Barefoot shoe review! I’m sharing my favorite styles and details about feel, fit and sizing. 

Shapen Dress Shoes and Sandals for Women

I’m starting off with dress shoes and sandals as it is a category that’s still sorely lacking in the barefoot shoe space, and where Shapen really shines. They became known for women’s barefoot dress shoes in wide widths, like the Poppy. Since then, they’ve launched a whole line of dressier styles, along with sneakers and boots.

Barefoot Women's Dress Shoes from Shapen

Fit and Sizing for Shapen Dress Shoes

Shapen makes most of their women’s barefoot dress shoes in regular and wide width. The regular is still supposed to be a foot-shaped fit, but better suited to narrow and medium width feet.

There is a unique size chart for each style. Sometimes, both the length and width can vary between the regular and wide widths. This means if you need a wider width, you may also need to adjust your size as the length will vary too. Typically, the wide width shoes run slightly shorter than their regular width counterpart.

With my 9.1cm foot width, I typically fall in the “regular” width category for most barefoot shoes. I’ll share how each of these styles fit me to give you a starting point on determining your size and width.

While the sole on all of these sandals and dressy flats are very thin and flexible, the width on some of the regular width shoes is more akin to a conventional dress shoe. Not painfully tight, but not allowing a full toe splay either. 

Shapen Sheen Loafers

$149 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Patent Leather

Loafers are always a classic, but in 2025 they’re everywhere…and I’m here for it! They work almost year-round and can be dressed up or down effortlessly. The Sheen from Shapen is their patent leather loafer, available in a few variations. I’m wearing the studded version here, which adds a fun, slightly edgy touch.

I really like this dot sole shape from Shapen; it’s a great match for my medium-width feet, and I’ve worn it in both boots and sneakers. (Some of their dressier styles have felt a bit too narrow in regular width and a bit too roomy in wide, but these hit the sweet spot.)

Because they’re patent leather, there isn’t much stretch, and the tongue has no elastic, so getting them on was a bit of a struggle. If you have high-volume feet, they might be tricky to get on at all. But once I had them on, they felt fantastic. I’m wearing a size EU37.

Shapen Mary Jane Coco

$159 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Leather

Another big dress shoe trend for 2025 is the Mary Jane. I used to think they felt a little too childish, but they’ve really grown on me. They’re practical, thanks to the strap for a secure fit, and the strap adds a nice design element too.

On the Mary Jane Coco, the strap features metal eyelets around the buckle holes, giving them a similar edgy vibe to the studded Sheen loafers. They also share the same outsole as the Sheen loafers, so the fit is very similar (I’m wearing an EU37 in these as well). These, however, are much easier to slip on, thanks to the wider opening.

These barefoot Mary Janes are made with a smooth leather upper that has a subtle shine; it’s not as glossy as patent leather, but still polished.

Shapen Versa Loafers

$149 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | | Regular and Wide Width | Leather

Shapen Versa barefoot loafer in cream leather

Shapen also offers another loafer style, the Versa, which comes in both regular and wide widths (regular featured above). I found the regular EU37 to be a touch too narrow and low-volume for my liking, but the wide option felt a little too loose and insecure—especially for a slip-on style. That’s based on my foot though; if you have wider feet, the Versa in wide could be a good fit for you. The loafers come with the metal accessories featured above, but Shapen sells interchangeable decorations, so you can easily customize your shoes!

Shapen Petal

$109 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Regular and Wide Width | Leather

Shapen Petal Barefoot Dress sandals for women

The Shapen Petal is my favorite style to come out of the new collection of women’s barefoot dress shoes. They have just enough detailing that they don’t feel over simplistic or boring. They come in light pink, black, and blue.

I opted for the EU36 regular width, and am happy with the fit for both the length and width of this shoe. This is a style where the length varies between the regular and wide versions. If I were to opt for the wide, I felt like I’d be a bit between sizes as the EU36 in wide runs a little shorter than the regular, but the EU37 runs a little long for a sandal. 

Even with the regular barefoot width, I have some room to move my toes. 

The ankle strap does run very short on this style; I have fairly narrow ankles, and am using the very last hole on the strap. If you have bigger ankles, you may need to extend the strap. 

Shapen Lily 3.0

€99 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Regular and Wide Width | Leather

The Lily are a simple and chic open toe sandal. The regular width version of the Lily runs noticeable narrower than the Petal sandals in the same size. 

Here, I’m wearing them in an EU36 regular. The toe box isn’t painful, but it does cause my big toe to angle in. If I wanted a barefoot fit on these, I would need to opt for the wide width EU36 (even with my medium width feet). 

Shapen Orchid

€99 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Regular and Wide Width | Suede

I don’t typically go for red shoes, but this deep red suede is bold  and beautiful without being over the top. The Shapen Orchid also comes in light beige and black. 

Despite sharing a size chart with the Lily, these feel roomier in the toe box. Here, I’m wearing them in an EU36 regular. But, for a true barefoot fit, I’d opt for the wide width. 

I have a higher instep, and wear the strap on the very last notch. If you have both a wide and high volume foot, you may find the strap too short.

Shapen Calla

€99 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Regular and Wide Width | Leather

Shapen Calla barefoot sandals

The Calla Sandal is my favorite stylish barefoot sandal to pair with dresses and skirt. I wear these in an EU37, and find them the right size. They only come in one width, but it one of Shapen’s widest sandals, starting at 10cm.

While I love the flexibility of these sandals, the downside is that the front can sometimes catch on the pavement when walking. This is an issue with the closed-toe flats or other sandals that have more secure straps. I’ve caught the front a few times, and it’s scraped away at the leather lining on the footbed. Therefore, I tend to wear this style when I’ll mostly be indoors. I’d love to see this sandal with a slightly stiff sole and a more durable insole that doesn’t scrape as easily.

Shapen Poppy

€99 |  Sizes EU35 – 44 | Regular and Wide Width | Leather

The Shapen Poppy flat has been the brand’s most popular shoe for the last several years before they launched this full line of women’s dress shoes. Like all of the others, they come in regular and wide width.


Shapen Sneakers

Shapen has several leather and vegan leather sneakers for both men and women with simple, classic styling.

Shapen Re:Wind

€149 | Leather and Suede uppers

Shapen Re:Wind barefoot sneakers like Nike Dunks

Shapen’s newest sneaker, the Re:Wind, is a barefoot take on the popular Nike Dunks. They’re a white leather sneaker with black, beige or pink suede accents.

Like most of Shapen’s shoes, they run a little large. I opted for a size EU37 based on my 23.3cm foot measurement. I have a higher instep, and am most comfortable in these without the added insole. With the insole included, these sneakers are a good fit for low to medium volume feet.


Shapen Boots 

Shapen greatly expanded their barefoot winter boot collection for 2023, so now there are a lot more styles to choose from. They still have dressy boot styles for women, but also included some options that work for men too. 

Outsole for Shapen Boots 

Most of Shapen’s boots use the same 5.5mm rubber outsole. It’s durable and flexible, and features a dot pattern to give it some grip. But, this outsole doesn’t have deep lugs specifically designed for traction, so they’re not the best option in icy conditions. I typically wear my Shapen boots during fall, and in winter conditions when I’m not super worried about traction. 

Cozy Boots

€139 | Suede Uppers | Code KELLY5 for 5% off  

Shapen Cozy Winter Boots

The Cozy boot was one of those shoes that felt like a perfect fit from first wear. If you’re only going to get one barefoot boot and you don’t live in extreme weather conditions, the Shapen Cozy is a versatile option. I found myself reaching for this boot most often last winter just for how easy it is to slip on (thanks to the side zipper) and how comfortable it was. 

The uppers are oiled nubuck with water-resistant properties. I’ve dumped water on it a few times, and my feet have stayed dry. 

The inside is fully lined with wool. I was warm wearing them in temperatures down to 20F last winter with a pair of mid weight wool socks.  

The Cozy boots also come in brown nubuck and black smooth leather.  

I wear these in an EU38 and find this to be a comfortable fit for both length and volume. The lining along with the laces means these are the snuggest fit I have in the Shapen Boots.


Fluffy Boots 

Suede Uppers | Wool lining | €149 | Code KELLY5 for 5% off  

Barefoot boots like Uggs, the Shapen Fluffy Boot

These Shapen Fluffy boots use a suede for the uppers and in the 2.0 version, they’re fully lined with the fluffy wool (the original boots pictured here were lined with faux fur). Here they’re pictured in a beautiful off-white, but they also come in black and brown. They’re a great replacement for a pair of Ugg-type boots.  

The lining is warm, and fully covers the inside of the boot and most of the sole. I opted to wear these with thicker socks so that my feet fit snuggly and I didn’t feel like I was sliding in the boot. Personally I prefer the wool lining on the cozy boots, but the faux fur look goes well with this style. 


Divine Boots

Leather Uppers | €149 | Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off 

Shapen Barefoot Chelsea boots for women

Chelsea boots with a taller shaft are on-trend right now, and as Shapen strives to be at the forefront of barefoot style, they designed the Divine boot. The functional straps around the ankle are also a nice feature, elevating the boot from just another simple barefoot boot. 

These boots do not have any additional inner lining, so they feel a little big compared to all the other styles as I still opted for an EU38. The length feels good with thicker socks, but there is a lot more volume that I needed to fill with an extra insole. This style can accommodate wide, high volume feet. If you plan on wearing these without thick socks or insoles, I recommend sizing down (for me that would’ve been the EU37). 

Shapen Barefoot Chelsea boots for women

Urbaneer Boots

€149 | Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off 

Shapen Barefoot Boots, Urbaneer is good for men or women

The Urbaneer is a stylish, high-top combat  boot that would be great for both men or women. They look fairly similar to the Cozy, but use a stretchy ankle panel instead of a side zipper. These are fully lined with wool, though it feels slightly more slippery and a little less voluminous than the wool lining of the Cozy boot. I’m comfortable wearing these in an EU38. 

Shapen Barefoot Boots, Urbaneer is good for men or women

Kids Shoes

Shapen Kids Winter Sneakers
Shapen Kids Frosty Boots

Shapen offers several other barefoot winter boot styles:

Lynx Boots: Two-tone boots with a fuzzy, foldable collar that can be worn up or down.

Ivy: Classic ankle boots

Frosty: made from leather and nylon.

Glam: Knee-high barefoot boots that come in leather and faux leather.

The post Shapen Barefoot Brand Review: Bringing Dressy Back to Women’s Barefoot Shoes  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

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Feelbarefoot Shoes: Handmade Barefoot Shoes on Etsy  https://barefootshoeguide.com/feelbarefoot-handmade-barefoot-shoes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=feelbarefoot-handmade-barefoot-shoes&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=feelbarefoot-handmade-barefoot-shoes https://barefootshoeguide.com/feelbarefoot-handmade-barefoot-shoes/#comments Fri, 14 Apr 2023 02:38:48 +0000 https://barefootshoeguide.com/?p=1793 Find a large selection of handmade barefoot shoes on the FeelBarefoot Etsy shop.   Etsy has a growing number of...

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Find a large selection of handmade barefoot shoes on the FeelBarefoot Etsy shop.  

Etsy has a growing number of shops offering handmade leather barefoot shoes. The FeelBarefoot Etsy shop by Aintap Shoes has one of the widest selections of styles, excellent quality, and offers customizations like bold colors, larger sizes and wider widths.  

Here is a quick highlight list for the barefoot shoes available in the Feelbarefoot shop:

  • Sizes Children’s US 8 – Men’s US 17
  • Leather uppers and soles
  • Handmade in Turkey
  • Customization options including colors, changes to sole, and custom sizing
  • Range of styles including loafers, oxfords, boots and sneakers
  • Pricing starting at $100 ($80 for kid’s sizes)
  • Code KELLY50 for 50% of retail

This post includes a detailed review of the Feelbarefoot brand, as well as individual information about all of their handmade barefoot shoe styles.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. About Feelbarefoot

  • Materials
  • Customization Options
  • Fit & Sizing
  • Affordable Pricing
  • Shipping & Returns

II. Barefoot Shoe Styles

About the FeelBarefoot Etsy shop 


I want to start off by clarifying the name—FeelBarefoot is the name of the Etsy Shop, while Aintap Shoes is the name of the company that actually makes the shoes. So while you order your shoes from Etsy under the FeelBarefoot name, the shoes you receive will be marked with the Aintap Shoes logo. 

Aintap Shoes is based in Gaziantep, Turkey, which has a history of shoemaking that goes back hundreds of years. The popular style from this region is called a Yemeni shoe, which is a heelless loafer-style shoe, hand sewn with natural leather and other natural materials. 

Handmade Shoes

The artisans that make the shoes for FeelBarefoot use many of the same practices and materials that people have used in this region for centuries. They have since expanded beyond just the traditional Yemeni style, to include popular shoes like Chelsea boots, chukkas and sneakers.  

I’ve always found FeelBarefoot shop shoe to be well-made. You can see the craftmanship in these handmade barefoot shoes.

I’ve worn some of their styles for over a year, and they still look and feel great. Aintap Shoes also has a wholesale business where they create shoes for several other brands—so chances are if you see a barefoot yemeni shoe, it may have been made by Aintap Shoes even if it’s labeled with a different brand name. 

Barefoot Style Shoes 

The shoes in the FeelBarefoot Shop feature a wide, foot-shaped toe box. Aintap Shoes does make more conventionally shaped shoes (as you can see on their website), but exclusively sells barefoot options in the FeelBarefoot Shop. 

The soles are all zero-drop. I’ll cover more about the sole’s flexibility and thickness in the materials section below. 

Feelbarefoot ballet flats on Etsy

Materials 

The uppers on the FeelBarefoot shoes are mostly vegetable tanned smooth leather or nubuck leather. There are several styles that have fabric uppers. 

 While I’m featuring a lot of neutrals in my photos as that’s my personal preference, Feelbarefoot offers a large array of color options. Think bright colors like fuscia, shiny silver, or fun patterns like plaid or a leopard print. 

The insoles and soles are made from vegetable tanned buffalo leather. The insole is 1.5mm and the outsole is 5mm, for a total stack height of 6.5mm. The outsole starts out very smooth and slippery, so it’s best to scuff them up a bit so you’re not walking on such a slick surface. You can also add a 2mm rubber bottom, which I’ve added to a few of the boots for better grip and to use them when the ground may be wet.  

These have good flexibility considering the stack height and use of leather, but they’re not as flexible as rubber. The leather soles feel a bit stiff when they’re new, but soften with use.

More recently, the shop made many of their styles available with a fully rubber 5mm sole. These are super flexible.

Handmade barefoot shoes on Etsy by Feelbarefoot

Customization options 

Here are a few of the customization options: 

  • Large selection of colors 
  • Two tone color selection for some styles 
  • Large selection of sizes (may be able to make larger size if requested) 
  • Buffalo Leather or Rubber outsole 
  • Add 2mm rubber outsole to the leather sole 
  • Add copper rivet for grounding 
Feelbarefoot Color Options

Fit and Sizing 

Feelbarefoot currently offers one of the largest arrays of sizing in barefoot shoes. They have children’s barefoot shoes starting at kid’s size US8 (this is new in 2023), up to men’s size US17. 

Most of the shoes are unisex. There is no difference in width in the men’s and women’s shoes, but the sizing is slightly different. For example, I wear an EU38 in women’s, which would be the exact same shoe as the EU37 in men’s.  Make sure you refer to the size chart and you’re ordering from the corresponding page (men’s or women’s) to make sure the sizing is correct. 

Although the Etsy website lists half sizes, these shoes technically only come in full sizes. So for me, it lists my size as a 7-7.5 in the size chart. If I order a US7 or US7.5 on Etsy, it will be the same size.

Before any shoe purchase, I start with measuring my feet and comparing my longest foot measurement to the size chart. See my guide for measuring your feet for barefoot shoes. 

I find the FeelBarefoot shoes to fit true to size, and according to FeelBarefoot, so do about 95% of their other customers. I wear an EU38/US7 for my 23.3cm measurement. I typically like about 1.2cm of extra space, so I opted for the EU38 that gives me a little bit more than that. 

These fit medium to wide feet best. With my medium width feet, I have some extra room in the toe box. They tend to be the same width all the way through the shoe, so I have some extra width through the mid-foot and ankle.  

FeelBarefoot Shoes are a good fit for someone that has higher volume feet or a high instep. I have a higher instep and these shoes comfortably fit over the top of my foot. I also have narrower ankles, so I tend to have more room in this space. If you have lower volume feet or narrower ankles, you can use things like heel grips, tongue pads and an extra insole for a better fit. Check out my video here on how I adjusted the volume on the FeelBarefoot slip-ons to better fit my feet. 

Affordable Pricing 

If you head to the Etsy shop, you’ll often see the FeelBarefoot shoes discounted between 30 and 45% off retail. These deals are usually going on, so I consider that the default price. If you use code KELLY50, you can get an additional 5% off. This discount makes most of the shoes about $100. These are one of the most affordable barefoot shoes on the market, especially for a high-quality handmade leather shoe.  

Like I mentioned before, the Aintap Shoes makes similar style loafers for a number of other brands out there, which usually have a much higher price tag. I’d recommend going right to the source to get the best deal and take advantage of the customization options.  

Shipping and Returns 

FeelBarefoot offers free shipping through Etsy. These shoes ship directly from Turkey. Etsy provides an estimated arrival time based on the order date, which is uaully 16 to 20 days after ordering. But, may people report receiving their shoes faster than that! You have 14 days from when you receive the shoes to return them if they do not fit. Many people also use the Minimalist buy/sell groups on Facebook to sell shoes that didn’t fit.  

FeelBarefoot Shoe Styles 


Feelbarefoot Dress Shoes

Oxfords 

These Oxfords are one of my favorite options for a barefoot dress shoe. Like I mentioned above, most of FeelBarefoot’s handmade barefoot shoes are unisex, and I included these on my round-ups for the best barefoot dress shoes for men and women. You can get this in a simple leather or nubuck leather, or opt for the wingtip detailing if you’re looking for a dressier option.  

Fit: These fit average to high volume feet best. The laces on these make them easy to adjust, so they’re a great fit for me without any extra adjustments compared to the loafers that I need to add an extra insole/heel pads to.

Barefoot Oxfords by Feelbarefoot shop on Etsy

Ballet Flats

These ballet flats have a slightly ruched, elastic opening which gives them a little bit of stretch or adjustability to accommodate wider feet. They come up a little higher, which seems to be more on trend at the moment. The uppers are soft leather, and you can choose either a 5mm rubber sole, or a 3mm leather sole. The ballet flat feature here has the rubber sole.

Fit: I’m wearing these in an EU38, which fits a little more snug that other Feelbarefoot styles in the same size, but works well for this type of shoe.

Slip-on Loafers 

These are the original Yemeni style of shoes. These loafers can be dressed up or down, and the best part is they aren’t going to squish your toes.  

The FeelBarefoot shop has these in both leather soles and the newer rubber soles. The leather sole gives these loafers more of a business casual vibe, while the ones with a rubber sole feel more casual.

Fit: This particular style works best for those with high volume feet and those that have average or wider ankles.  I have a higher arch and instep but narrower heels, and found that I need to make adjustments for the volume and especially for the ankle area for a more secure fit. I added an extra insole and a tongue pad to get a better fit for the volume. I also added a heel pad to help take up some of the space around the heel. I show how I adjusted the fit of these barefoot loafers in this Instagram Reel.

Kids Loafers

The Yemeni barefoot loafers are also available in children’s sizes, EU24 – EU33. They offer most of the same customization options as the adults. My son uses these as a dressier shoe for special occasions. These are about $20 less than the adult version, starting at $80.

There is a size guide for the children’s sizes. I measured the EU 30 we have and compared it to the size chart, and the insole was about 2mm shorter than the listed length.

Feelbarefoot Barefoot dress shoes for kids

Feelbarefoot Sneakers

Converse-style Sneakers 

I love the classic look of Converse sneakers, but not the super tight toe box. Feelbarefoot makes a barefoot version of this popular sneaker style that you can customize in a few ways.

Find out how I styled these sneakers three different ways on TikTok.

Feelbarefoot barefoot shoes like Converse on Etsy

Casual Sneakers 

Finally, no shoe collection is complete without a pair of casual sneakers, and Feelbarefoot’s handmade barefoot sneakers are the perfect choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish shoe.  

The sneakers come in two different outsole options, and both of them are 5mm rubber.  


Feelbarefoot Boots

Chelsea Boots 

The Chelsea Boots are another great option for dressier barefoot shoes. The leather sole gives them a dressier vibe than options with a pure rubber sole, but you can also add the additional 2mm rubber outsole to make these work better for wet weather. They feature an elastic side panel for easy on and off. The Chelsea boots look great pair with both pants and dresses/skirts. 

Fit: Similar to the loafers, these are a higher volume shoe, but I found these to be a better fit as they have a higher cut up the ankle.

Chukka Boots 

The Chukka Boots are one of FeelBarefoot’s newest styles, and adds more options for those that prefer laces. The Chukka Boots can also be further customized with use two different leather colors for the front and back. 

Fit: these have a similar fit to the oxfords, just with a taller shaft. They fit average to high volume feet best, and can be adjusted up or down thanks to the laces.

Handmade barefoot chukka boots on the Feelbarefoot Etsy store
Handmade barefoot boots with leather sole on the Feelbarefoot Etsy store

Tall Boots 

Feelbarefoot’s handmade barefoot tall boots are designed to be both stylish and practical, with a zipper up the inside in addition to the laces. This makes these minimalist boots easy to slip on and off without having to redo the lacing. These are a good option for a combat-style boot, and plus you can customize them in so many ways. 

Barefoot Combat Boots by Feelbarefoot on Etsy
Barefoot Tall Boots by Feelbarefoot on Etsy

Feelbarefoot Shoes on Etsy, Handmade barefoot shoes

Conclusion

If you’re looking for healthy, barefoot shoes that are stylish and customizable, Feelbarefoot on Etsy is one of the best places to start. Their range of handmade barefoot shoes includes something for everyone, whether you’re looking for dress shoes or casual wear.  

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Women’s Barefoot Dress Shoes: Full List including Ballet Flats, Oxfords, Loafers and Dressy Sandals https://barefootshoeguide.com/womens-barefoot-dress-shoes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=womens-barefoot-dress-shoes&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=womens-barefoot-dress-shoes https://barefootshoeguide.com/womens-barefoot-dress-shoes/#comments Wed, 05 Apr 2023 20:40:38 +0000 https://barefootshoeguide.com/?p=1661 It’s true, barefoot dress shoes for women can be hard to find! That’s why I’ve rounded up a full list...

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It’s true, barefoot dress shoes for women can be hard to find! That’s why I’ve rounded up a full list of options here. Check out these dressy, minimalist shoes that don’t squeeze your toes and have a flat, flexible sole.

If you’ve been looking for women’s dress shoes that are both fashionable and comfortable, the struggle is real! I spent years wearing shoes to work or for formal occasions that would leave my feet in pain or give me blisters—just a short walk from my car to the office could sometimes leave me feeling crippled. 

“Beauty is pain” is an oft-repeated phrase that I internalized as a young adult; I felt like I had to wear shoes were pointed and heeled to fit in, especially in more formal situations like work.  

High heels vs natural feet

After I learned about barefoot shoes, I quickly made the switch with everyday tennis shoes, sneakers, and sandals. But switching out my dress shoes was hard. The features that make a dress shoe dressy and fashionable (especially for women) go against a lot of we’re trying to do here with barefoot shoes.  

Note: This post may contain 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!

Mix of cute barefoot dress shoes for women

Traditional Dress Shoes vs Barefoot Dress Shoes 

Women’s dress shoes have some of the narrowest, pointed toe boxes; barefoot shoes have a wide toe box so you can have a comfortable, anatomical toe splay. Looking back on some of my old dress shoes, it’s clear that they were only designed to fit three toes, maybe four on a good day.  

Women’s dress shoes have some of the highest heels; barefoot shoes are zero drop. Learning to walk in high heels is seen as a rite of passage into womanhood. It’s like you’re more of a woman if you can confidently walk in high heels. But even if you have your strut perfected to catwalk model status, it’s always going to be terrible for your feet and body. 

There’s a reason bunions are more prevalent in women than in men—those tight toe boxes combined with heels put tons of pressure on the ball of your foot and push your big toe inwards, which can cause a bunion to form. 

High heels lead to unnatural posture

Women’s dress shoes have rigid soles; barefoot shoes are flexible. Honestly, I’ve come to the conclusion that most traditional dress shoes are not made for walking. They’re made to fit into this narrowly defined view of what is classy and dressy and fashionable with complete disregard to anatomical shape and natural movement. 

Also check out my post on men’s barefoot dress shoes.

Conventional dress shoes for women with a narrow toe box
Conventional ballet flats with a bunion-promoting narrow toe box

If I start wearing barefoot shoes, can I never wear conventional dress shoes again? 

People have repeatedly come to me with this question, afraid that if they switch to barefoot shoes, they’ll never be able to dress up in on-trend heels or boots or pointed flats. I look at barefoot shoes like other health-related endeavors like food or exercise. It’s what we do the majority of the time that’s most important. 

So, if you have a special occasion that you want to wear high heels for, I hope you don’t feel anyone (especially me) judging you for it! Your feet aren’t going to be ruined in one night, though they may need some TLC afterwards. 

I think what you’ll find is that once people do start wearing barefoot shoes, they have much less tolerance for narrow toe boxes and heels as the discomfort is so much more obvious. It’s kinda like once you know what comfortable shoes are and the domino impact they have on the rest of our body, you can’t unknow it. 

Wearing a traditional dress shoe on occasion isn’t the end of the world. But, if you’re in a situation where you need to wear dress shoes on a regular basis, you may want to find something that’s better for your feet and body. This is where that long-term wear is going to have an impact, so hopefully this list of women’s barefoot dress shoes will help you find something that is comfortable and you like how it looks. 

Note on Pricing

I included current pricing at the time of this writing and most recent update (January 2025). The prices reflect any available discount codes I have, so that you’re comparing the best possible price among the different options.

Shapen Petal Barefoot Dress sandals for women

Women’s Barefoot Dress Shoes

This is a full list of women’s barefoot dress shoes. They feature a wide, anatomically shaped toe box and a thin, flat and flexible sole. They’re divided by style to make it easy to compare the different options. 

Conventional Dress Shoes for women

Women’s Barefoot Ballet Flats

Softstar Ballerine Flat, Best barefoot dress shoes for women

Softstar Ballerine

  • Leather uppers with customizable colors. I love mine in shiny platinum (they look gold)
  • Come in regular or wide width

Shapen Camille flats, barefoot flats with style

Shapen Camille Flat

  • Open toe flat with interwoven leather straps
  • Come in regular width
  • 5% Discount code: BFSHOEGUIDE5

Groundies ballet flats with business casual outfit

Groundies Lily Flat

  • Leather uppers with ruched opening
  • Come in regular and extra wide width

Feelbarefoot ballet flats on Etsy

Feelbarefoot Ballet Flat

  • Leather uppers with customizable colors
  • Opt for 3mm rubber sole or 3mm leather sole
  • $85 using code KELLY50

Vivobarefoot Opanka Barefoot Ballerina Flat

Vivobarefoot Ballerina

  • Leather uppers in black or brown
  • Code BSG20 for 20% off

Xero Shoes Phoenix Barefoot Ballet Flat, Women's Barefoot Dress Shoes

Xero Shoes Phoenix Flat

  • Leather or knit uppers in black, brown, teal or dark pink

Shapen Tulip Dressy barefoot shoes for women

Shapen Tulip

  • Leather uppers. Ankle strap, which can be replaced with gold or silver ankle bracelet
  • Come in regular and wide barefoot versions
  • Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off

Ahinsa chic ballet flats, barefoot dress flats with ruching detail

Ahinsa Chic Flats

  • Vegan uppers
  • Ruching around opening for secure fit
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off

Magical Shoes Ballerina Flat

Magical Shoes Ballerina

  • Leather or suede uppers
  • Code KELLY for 10% off

Luks Shoes Ballet Flats, Barefoot Dress Shoes for women

Luks Ballerina

  • Leather or suede uppers

Angles Fashion barefoot dress shoes for women

Angles Flat

  • Leather uppers in black and cream

A ballet flat is a simple yet classic dressy shoe for women that can be customized a million different ways. As I started gravitating towards more comfortable shoes, I’d often pick the most minimal ballet flats I could find from mainstream retailers. Unfortunately, many of those still had a pretty tight toe box. These barefoot ballet flats are flat and flexible, and have a roomier and more comfortable fit for the toes.

Angles Barefoot Ballet Flats
Angles barefoot ballet flats

Barefoot Oxfords and Lace ups

Oxfords, Derbys and other lace up styles can be some of the most classic dress shoes, known for their pointed toes and heeled soles. They’re traditionally men’s dress shoes, but they’ve become a more popular style for women too. These barefoot takes on Oxfords and lace ups have a wide toe box and flat and flexible sole.  

Softstar Oxfords, barefoot dress shoes
Origo Derby Dres Shoes, Barefoot business casual Shoes for women

Origo Derby

  • Leather uppers in black, brown, tan, mauve and off-white
  • 3mm flexible rubber sole
  • Code KELLY for 10% off

Barefoot Dress Shoes, Handmade Oxfords by Aintap Shoes

Feelbarefoot Oxfords

  • Leather or nubuck leather uppers with customizable colors
  • Leather sole with optional 2mm rubber outsole
  • $99 with code KELLY50 for 50% off retail


Vivobarefoot RA III Barefoot Oxfords for women

Vivobarefoot Ra III Oxfords

  • Black leather or suede beige uppers
  • Code BSG20 for for 20% off

Feelbarefoot Wingtip Minimalist Oxfords

Feelbarefoot Wingtip Oxfords

  • Leather uppers in black, brown and dark brown with traditional wingtip detailing for dressier look
  • $102 with code KELLY50 for 50% off retail

Barefoot Loafers 

Loafers are another classic women’s barefoot dress shoe, with a number of brands offering their own take.  

BeLenka Viva Dressy Barefoot Loafers for women with gold buckle

BeLenka Viva Loafers

  • Black or beige leather with gold buckle
  • Best for narrow to medium width feet and low to mid volume
  • KELLY5 for 5% off

Feelbarefoot Minimalist Loafers for Women

Feelbarefoot Loafers

  • Leather or nubuck leather uppers with customizable colors
  • Leather sole with optional 2mm rubber outsole or copper grounding plug
  • $99 with code KELLY50 for 50% off retail

Vivobarefoot Opanka Slip On barefoot loafers for women

Vivobarefoot Opanka Slipons

  • Leather uppers in black or brown
  • Code BSG20 for 20% off

Unshoes Primrose Barefoot Dress Shoes for Women

Unshoes Primrose

  • Leather uppers with moccasin-inspired design and optional bow
  • Code nomanbefore10 for 10% off

Unshoes Forager Barefoot Dress Shoes for Women

Unshoes Forager

  • Suede uppers with moccasin-inspired design
  • Code nomanbefore10 for 10% off

Raum Goods Loafers, Minimalist Dress Shoes for Women

Raum Loafers

  • Leather or suede uppers
  • Leather soles with copper grounding plug

Groundz Minimalist Suede Loafers for women

Groundz Loafers

  • Leather or suede uppers with leather soles
  • Have a wider/rounder toe box compared to the other similar style loafers listed above
  • KELLY5 for 5% off

Ruby Workshop barefoot loafers on Etsy

Ruby Workshop Loafers

  • Leather or suede uppers with rubber soles
  • Offer customizations, including toe box width
  • KELLY5 for extra 5% off

LUKS BAREFOOT moccasins

Luks Shoes Moccasins

  • Leather or suede uppers
  • Rubber sole

Barefoot Dressy Flats

This list of barefoot dressy flats includes a few different style options, like Mary Janes and T-Straps.  (Watch this try-on of some of the most popular barefoot flats and sandals).

Barefoot Women's Dress Shoes from Shapen
Shapen has a full line of barefoot women’s dress shoes — read the full review.
Shapen Orchid, Barefoot Dressy Flats for Women

Shapen Orchid

  • Suede uppers with 3mm rubber sole
  • Come in regular and wide width
  • Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off

Lang.S Mira T-Bar flats with a wide toe box and chunky sole

Lang.S Mira T-Bar Flats

  • Water-repellent suede
  • Chunkier sole, but still flexible
  • Code KELLY for 10% off
shop lang.s

Wide Width barefoot sandals from Shapen

Shapen Poppy

  • Leather uppers with 3mm rubber sole
  • Come in regular and wide width
  • Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off

Origo Mary Janes

Origo Mary Janes

  • Patent leather with 3mm rubber sole
  • Code KELLY for 10% off

Softstar Mary Jane barefoot shoes

Softstar Mary Janes

  • Leather uppers in black, brown or green
  • Available in regular and wide width

Caret's women's barefoot dress shoes with faux pointed toe

Carets Artemis D’Orsay Mary Jane

  • Leather uppers in black
  • Pointed toe with extra space to still offer foot-shaped fit

Crupon Iris, barefoot dress shoes for women on Etsy

Crupon Iris

  • Leather uppers in black, brown and red

Crupon Trevi Barefoot Sandals for women

Crupon Trevi

  • Leather uppers with 8 different color options

Nefes Barefoot Mary Janes on Etsy

Nefes Mary Janes

  • Leather uppers with buffalo leather soles (5 to 8mm)
  • Made in Turkey and available on Etsy

Ruby Workshop Barefoot and wide toe box dress shoes for women

Ruby Workshop Flats

  • Leather uppers
  • Offers custom adjustments, including wider widths
  • Made in Turkey and available on Etsy
  • Code KELLY35 for extra 5% off


Barefoot Dress Sandals 

When the weather is warm, I love opting for a dressier sandal if it fits the occasion.  Here are some comfortable barefoot sandals you can dress up. (Find some more inspiration on Instagram!)

Barefoot Dress Sandals instead of High Heels
Shapen Calla barefoot sandals

Shapen Calla

  • Shimmery straps in white, rose gold or bronze
  • Code BFSHOEGUIDE5 for 5% off

Ahinsa Hava vegan barefoot dress sandals with crystal embellishments for weddings and dressy occasions

Ahinsa Hava

  • White or black straps with crystals
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off
Groundies Corfu barefoot sandals in light grey

Groundies


Stylish barefoot sandals for women by Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot Opanka Sandals

  • Leather uppers in black, brown and off white
  • 4mm rubber sole
  • Code BSG20 for for 20% off

Grecian Sandals, barefoot wedding sandals

Grecian Sandals on Etsy

  • Large selection of styles and colors
  • Vibram soles
  • Note there is still some tapering at the toe
Softstar Solstice Minimalist Sandals

Softstar Solstice Sandals

  • Leather uppers in light or dark brown
  • Recommend sizing down and opting for wide fit (I wear size 5U wide)
  • Note there is still some tapering at the toe, even with the wide fit

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Men’s Barefoot Dress Shoes: Zero Drop + Wide Toe Box https://barefootshoeguide.com/mens-barefoot-dress-shoes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mens-barefoot-dress-shoes&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mens-barefoot-dress-shoes https://barefootshoeguide.com/mens-barefoot-dress-shoes/#comments Wed, 04 Jan 2023 05:30:17 +0000 https://barefootshoeguide.com/?p=857 Check out this list of men’s barefoot dress shoes for comfortable, work appropriate shoe options that are zero-drop with a...

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Check out this list of men’s barefoot dress shoes for comfortable, work appropriate shoe options that are zero-drop with a wide toe box.

Tired of wearing narrow, heeled, and uncomfortable shoes all day at work? Swap them out for barefoot shoes, which allows for healthy and natural movement and alignment.

While wearing a conventional dress shoe occasionally isn’t that big of deal, wearing them every day means:

  • your toes are regularly being squished
  • your body is adjusting to compensate for an elevated heel
  • you’re changing your walking gait due to a stiff sole

If you’ve started wearing barefoot shoes for other areas of your life, you may be (literally) feeling the pinch from your narrow shoes, and ready to ditch them for a foot-shaped pair. Here I’ve gathered a list of the best men’s barefoot dress shoes so you can find something that fits your feet and your style.

Best barefoot dress shoes for men

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Here’s what to look for in men’s barefoot dress shoes: 

Wide toe box — The toe box should be wide, allowing your toes to naturally splay. This means that your big toe can lie straight, so the toe box is either straight or splay out at the big toe. This is one of the most noticeable differences between a barefoot dress shoe and a conventional dress shoe, which has a pointed, symmetrical toe box. 

Flat — The sole of the shoe should zero-drop, or flat. Men’s dress shoes tend to have a significant heel drop, which is essentially like standing on an incline all day.

Thin & Flexible — The focus on barefoot shoes is allowing the foot to function naturally, which includes a thin and flexible sole so the foot can easily move and bend. A super stiff sole featured in many men’s dress shoes forces us to change our walking gait to compensate for the lack of flexibility in the sole.

Xero Shoes Glenn, Men's Barefoot Dress shoes vs conventional dress shoes
heel drop on men's traditional dress shoes vs zero drop barefoot dress shoes

Our Top Picks for Men’s Barefoot Dress Shoes

There are a lot of nice options to replace your traditional dress shoes, and these are the ones we would recommend first. All of the sizing notes are based off of Aaron’s foot length of 26.8cm.

Carets Oxfords

For those wanting to keep the look of a classic men’s dress shoe, but have more toe room, then the Carets Oxfords are the best option. They use a few design tricks to keep the traditional look, including an elongated toe box that still allows for a pointed toe, and a faux heel. These are miles better than a traditional Oxford, but there is still a slight tapering, so you may not get a full toe splay depending on your foot width. You can see the comparison of the insole to other barefoot shoes in the blog post.


Birchbury Chukka Boots

Birchbury suede barefoot chukka boots with zero drop sole

This is a new versatile style from Birchbury . These Chukka boots can easily be dressed up or down, and with a higher ankle height, they’re perfect for cooler weather. And if you’re worried about ruining the suede, it’s been pre-treated with a water-resistant finish. Code KELLY10 for 10% off.  Sizing: Aaron is wearing US11/EU43. 


Dressy Leather Boots

If you’re looking for a dressier leather boot, but want a lot more toe space than the boots on the left, there are two really great options. Gaucho Ninja makes a beautiful leather boot. For something a bit more rugged that can still be dressed up, the Jim Green Barefoot African Rangers also look great. Use code KELLY10 for 10% off Gaucho Ninja. Jim Green sizing: US10.5/EU44


Vivobarefoot Gobi IV Boots

Vivo calls these their smart-casual desert boot. They’re unlined and super lightweight, so they can be worn any time of year. This year these boots are available in dark brown and all black leather, and currently on sale as part of Vivo’s end of year sale. For any full-price styles, use code BSG20 for 20% off. Sizing: EU43. 


Office Sneakers

For sneakers that work well for the office, check out the Xero Shoes Glenn or the Origo Everyday sneakers in leather. The Glenn have a nubuck finish and are available in black, grey and brown, while the Origo sneakers are natural leather uppers in a few more color combos. Use code KELLY for 10% off at Origo.


Men’s Barefoot Dress Shoes

See below for the list of men’s barefoot dress shoes, including discount codes to help you get a better deal. Note that the prices reflect the price using the discount code, but not including taxes or shipping.

List of Men’s Barefoot Formal Dress Shoes

Birchbury Mens Barefoot Dress Shoes

Birchbury Brenston

  • US Men’s 7 – 16
  • Classic leather dress shoe
  • They do taper, but they’re wider than most conventional options
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off

Birchbury suede barefoot chukka boots with zero drop sole

Birchbury Chukka

  • US Men’s 5 – 16
  • Suede chukka boots in tan, dark brown and black
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off

Carets Oxfords

  • Mens US 7 – 14
  • Faux heel and elongated taper for more room in toe box
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off

FeelBarefoot Oxfords Barefoot Dress Shoes for Men

Feelbarefoot Oxfords

  • Up to size Men’s 15
  • Lots of color options
  • Stiffer leather outsole that can take time to soften
  • Code KELLY50 for 50% off

Angles Atlas Mens Barefoot Dress Shoes

Angles Atlas

  • EU US 37 – 46
  • Code KELLY10 for 10% off
Peerko Smart Mens Minimalist Dress Shoes

Peerko Smart Shoes

  • EU38 – 45

List of Men’s Barefoot Business Casual Shoes

If your office is a little more informal, then these business casual options may be just the right fit for both comfort and style.

Xero Shoes Glenn, men's barefoot dress shoes

Xero Shoes Glenn

  • Men’s 6.5 – 15
  • Comes in Black, Brown and Grey

Origo Men's barefoot sneakers to wear to the office

Origo Everyday Sneakers

  • Men’s 8 – 13
  • Code KELLY for 10% off

Lems Nine2Five Mens Barefoot Dress Shoes

Lems Nine2Five

  • Men’s 6 – 15
  • Black or Brown uppers
  • Moderate Cushion

Vivobarefoot

  • US 7 – 15
  • Several styles including Scott Boot, Gobi Boot, Ra Shoe
  • Code BSG20 for 20% off

Freet Citee Barefoot Shoes for Men

Freet Citee and Richmond

  • EU37 – 48
  • Vegan
  • Code KELLY for 10% off

Magical Shoes Cameron Mens Barefoot Shoes for Work

Magical Shoes Cameron

  • EU 37 – 47
  • Up to 50% off select styles (lots of styles listed, including boots, sneakers and sandals
  • Code KELLY for 10 % off

Softstar Mens Barefoot Chukka Boots

Softstar Hawthorne Chukka

  • US 5 – 14.5
  • Leather uppers with Vibram sole
  • Resolable
shop softstar

Looking for more barefoot shoe reviews? Find them here.

When you’re ready to order, don’t forget to remeasure your feet and double check with the size chart.

Any questions about barefoot and minimalist dress shoes for men? Drop a comment below.

The post Men’s Barefoot Dress Shoes: Zero Drop + Wide Toe Box appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

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