Dad shoes. 

That used to be the term for those sneakers that were bulky, white, and unequivocally uncool. And of course, beloved by many a dad in the ‘90s. 

But as fashion goes, the shoes you wouldn’t be caught dead in as a teenager are now the newest must-have for your sneaker rotation in your mid-30s. 

If you’re hunting for the perfect Dad sneaker, you’re probably after that ‘90s running-shoe vibe with chunky soles and plenty of contrasting overlays that give it that endearingly clunky look. 

The problem? Most of them come with a crazy narrow toe box and ridiculously stiff soles. I know plenty of people are willing to tolerate the discomfort for the sake of fashion, but how all those dads once called them comfortable… I’ll never understand. 

Luckily, barefoot shoe brands have caught on. They’re proving you don’t need to sacrifice natural foot shape or comfort to get this fun, retro style. These “barefoot dad sneakers” keep the wide toe box. And most of them have even managed to preserve the chunky sole aesthetic but still make them zero-drop and flexible. 

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Barefoot Dad Sneakers

Here are the best barefoot dad sneakers, that are both cool (as of 2025, you know how trends go) and comfortable. Keep in mind, most of these are casual sneakers, they’re not particularly made for running or the gym (except for the Bahé sneakers at the end of the list).

Dolfie Paradise Supersonic

€195 | Code KELLYDP10 for 10% off | EU36 – 47 | Leather | Shipped from Portugal

Dolfie is fully dialed into the wide toe box–meets–chunky sneaker look. They’ve been making sustainable footwear with a laid-back surf/skate vibe since 2007, and over the past two years they redesigned their complete lineup into a more foot-friendly shape to relaunch in 2025.

Even though Dolfie is relatively new to natural foot-shaped design, they’re not skimping on toe space. I have plenty of room for my medium-width foot in each of the Dolfie shoes I’ve tried.

The Dolfie Supersonics are my favorite barefoot Dad sneakers. They nail the Dad shoe aesthetic — lots of layering, bold textures, and a chunky-looking outsole (which actually only tops out at 8 mm without the insole). They flex well at the toes, though there’s a touch more stiffness around the heel than you’d find in a traditional barefoot shoe — expected when aiming for that thicker, structured look.

They’re a great option for beginners, offering a bit more cushion than most barefoot shoes (you can choose between two insoles — 3mm or 8mm), while still maintaining a good amount of flexibility. These soles are on the heavier side for barefoot shoes. It’s not a deal breaker for me, but it’s a noticeable difference compared to the lightness of many barefoot shoes.

Dolfie shoes feel thoughtfully designed and incredibly well made. They’ve recently released a new set of colors, including a bright green suede and a mesh and silver colorway. They’re a premium product, and the price reflects that level of craftsmanship. You can use code KELLYDP10 for 10% off.

Fit and sizing: Fits medium to wide width and accommodates low to high volume depending on which insole you use. Both me and my husband have higher insteps, and we get a comfortable fit with the thinner 3mm insole. It feels too tight if I try to use the 8mm. Size EU 38 fits my 23.3 cm foot perfectly.

Groundies Starlite 2.0

$150 | Code KELLY15 for 15% off | EU36 – 47 | Leather and Mesh | Shipped from USA (or Germany)

Groundies has been on a roll lately with fun, on-trend styles, and the new Startlite 2.0 was one I was especially excited about. The silver overlays on white mesh are quintessential Dad sneaker and the perfect replacement for a pair of New Balance 530s — retro, sporty, and just the right amount of chunky.

Groundies’ fit tends to vary depending on the outsole, and this pair uses their newer TrueSense GSP outsole, which I found to be one of their widest. Some of Groundies’ soles run a bit narrow for me, but I had plenty of toe space in these.

There’s decent flexibility through the toes, though these feel noticeably stiffer around the heel, even more so than the Dolfie’s. They have a really solid, structured feel… maybe a little too solid for my taste. The outsole is 6mm, so they’re not particularly thick. Most of the stiffness is coming from the faux sidewall.

I love the white and silver colorway, though after wearing them, I do wish the outsole were a true white instead of off-white. Overall, they’ve been very comfortable — and a fun, shimmery way to try the Dad sneaker look in a barefoot-friendly shape.

If you’re in the US, make sure you’re ordering from the Groundies US website to take advantage of the free shipping and avoid a separate tariff bill. Though they don’t have quite as large of a selection as the main Groundies website, they still have a lot of great styles.

Fit & Sizing: These fit best for medium-width feet and medium to high volume. I found them true to size (EU38 for me), with more toe space than I typically find in a pair of Groundies’ sneakers.

Ohne Project Retro Run Sneakers

€169 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off | EU36 – 47 | Vegan | Shipped from Spain

Ohne Project’s take on the dad sneaker feels similar to Dolfie’s, mainly because they use the same outsole. Previously, barefoot shoes brands had to design their own outsoles as a wide toe box was not something offered by outsole suppliers. But as suppliers and shoe factories are seeing the success of barefoot shoes, several are starting to add wide toe box, zero-drop options. An outsole supplier debuted this particular one last year, and a few brands have added it to their collection. It captures the chunky sneaker style well, and with a 5mm base and 3mm lugs, it’s a good balance between flexibility and comfort.

The Ohne Retro Run has its own upper design inspired by the 2000s and uses vegan materials including breathable mesh panels.

Bahé Revive Sneakers

$149+ | Code BAREFOOTGUIDE for 10% off | EU36 – 47 | Vegan | Shipped from UK

Okay, this one might be stretching the definition of a Dad sneaker a bit — it’s cleaner and more streamlined, with fewer overlays — but it definitely leans in that direction. And if you’re after a true athletic shoe you can take to the gym or on a run, the Bahe Revive is your best bet.

I absolutely love these sneakers. They’ve been my go-tos for over two years for anything involving more movement — from workouts and hikes to long travel days. The new “Modes” lineup offers three different cushioning levels, so you can pick your ideal stack height. I personally prefer the Flex or Adapt mode (10mm or 14mm, respectively), but the highest cushion option (the Endurance) is a great choice for running with a 22mm stack height. You can read my full review on the Bahé Modes line here.

In terms of tariffs, these ship from the UK but are made in China. Since tariffs are based on the country of origin, you’ll be charged the rate applicable to products manufactured in China.

Fit & Sizing: Fits medium to wide width and medium to high volume. They come with a 3mm removable insole, and the interior is finished, so you can comfortably wear them with or without it.

Final Thoughts

It’s amazing how far the barefoot world has come! You can finally wear the trends you love without giving up comfort or natural foot shape. These barefoot Dad sneakers nail that chunky aesthetic while staying true to a wide toe box and zero-drop design.

The post Dad Sneakers Go Barefoot: Wide-Toe, Zero-Drop Takes on the Trend  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Clogs are one of those shoes you don’t realize you need… until you slip them on and wonder how you lived without them.

I’d been eyeing the Birkenstock Boston clogs since they were so cute and seemed foot-shaped, but after a quick try-on, there was no way my feet were putting up with that stiff, contoured footbed. Then I found the Birkenstock Lutry—same vibe, but the cork insole was easily removable. Naturally, I swapped out the contoured cork footbed for a flat one to make it barefoot-friendly, and gave them a shot.

No surprise: I loved them. They’re perfect for quick errands, stepping outside, or just padding around the house during the winter.

And the good news? You don’t have to DIY your way into a foot-shaped clog anymore. There are now a handful of barefoot clogs that are wide, flexible, zero-drop, and ready to wear right out of the box. Easy on, easy off, made with natural materials, and even available in some fun colors.

What Makes a Clog Barefoot-Approved?

Just like with other barefoot shoes, there are a few things I look for in a clog:

• Wide toe box – Your toes should be able to splay and move freely, not get squished.
• Zero drop – That means no heel rise. Your foot stays in its natural position.
• Flexible sole – The sole should bend and twist easily, not feel like a brick.
• Thin sole (optional) – For more ground feel, though some clog lovers prefer a slightly thicker sole for comfort.

Top Picks for Barefoot Clogs

Let’s dive right in! Here are my favorites when it comes to comfy, foot-shaped clogs.

Best Style: Birkenstock Lutry Clogs

Suede uppers | EU35 – 48 | $150

You don’t often get to stick with the original name brand when switching to barefoot shoes, so it’s a nice surprise that you can actually make a pair of Birkenstocks more foot-friendly. Most Birkenstocks have the cork footbed glued in and built into the structure of the shoe, but on the Lutry, the cork insole simply pops out. I have a full post on how to remove it and suggestions for what to replace it with, because once it’s out, you’re left with quite a bit of extra space to fill. The good news: the remaining rubber sole is surprisingly flexible.

The suede uppers are soft but structured, especially around the toes, which helps keep the shape even without the original footbed.

Sizing: I opted for the EU37 clog (which lists a length of 24cm), which fits with both my 23.3cm feet with both the cork insole and once I add a thick and fluffy sheepskin insole. If I were going to go for a more minimal insole, I’d likely size down, but I’d still have some extra volume to fill in.

Best fit for: The Lutry clog comes in Birkenstock’s Medium/Narrow width in smaller sizes and Regular/Wide in larger ones. My EU37 pair in the Medium/Narrow width actually felt quite roomy, especially after removing the thick cork footbed. They’re best suited to medium to wide feet and higher volume, though you can easily adjust the fit with different insoles to accommodate lower volume feet too.

Shipping: Birkenstock has the widest selection of Lutry clogs plus free shipping when you become a Birkenstock member. A limited selection is also available at REI which offers free shipping and free returns in store (or $7.99 for shipped returns).

Best Cozy: Be Flamboyant Vegan Clog

Vegan leather uppers | Vegan shearling lining | EU36 – 46 | $149 | KELLY10 for 10% off

I saw these barefoot clogs earlier this year, and couldn’t wait until they came back in stock. Be Flamboyant is a vegan Spanish brand (doesn’t it seem like all of the vegan brands with great style are coming out of Spain?!). All of their shoes have the look of a chunkier sole, but most, including these vegan, shearling-lined clogs, have just a 5mm outsole. They’re the coziest barefoot clogs! There’s also a 3mm removable insole; but don’t worry, if you need to remove it for more volume, the clog is finished with shearling lining underneath, so you get that coziness no matter what.

I opted for size EU38, which is a great fit for me, even with the additional lining, included insole, and a pair of socks. I’m so excited to keep slipping these on as the days get cooler.

Use code KELLY10 for 10% off at Be Flamboyant.

Best Minimal: Mukishoes Soca Clog

Suede uppers | EU36 – 48 | €89 | Code KELLYMUKI for 10% off

Mukishoes recently released the Soca Clog which looks similar to the Birkenstock Boston clog (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, which feels amazing, but the uppers do have a lot less structure and sturdiness compared to a Birkenstock. They feel more delicate, almost leaning towards a slipper. The sole is incredibly flexible, but there is a touch of cushion thanks to the cork midsole. Mukishoes released a cozier version in the fall made out of wool.

Mukishoes pulled in a lot of great elements from the inspiration 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 reinforced by the molded cork heel cup, but here it’s just soft suede with no backing, and doesn’t really add function. I can’t help but wonder if a fully open back would have made more sense.

Sizing: 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. Come fall, these will likely be my barefoot clogs of choice!

Best fit for: 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. 

Shipping: You can order these directly from Mukishoes, and use code KELLYMUKI for 10% off. Shipping is about €25. If you’re in the US, barefoot retailer PedTerra offers them at a slightly higher price point with free shipping and free returns. Use code KELLY for 10% off at PedTerra.

Best for Outdoors: Bedrock Mountain Clogs

Women’s US6 – Men’s US14 | $160 – $175

These are the durable, adventure-ready take on the everyday clog. With a wide toe box, zero drop, and a Vibram Megagrip sole, they strike a nice balance between barefoot functionality and all-terrain capability. You can wear them loose like a slip-on or use the strap for a more secure fit. They come in nubuck, suede, or synthetic suede uppers.

They’re a bit stiffer than your average barefoot shoe due to the thicker, heavily lugged sole, but these are for the outdoors after all. Think of these as your favorite clogs to hang around the campsite or cabin, your recover slide after a long hike, or the ones you throw on to putz around the garden. Despite their thicker stack height, these still have enough flexibility that I don’t think you’re massively compromising on natural movement.

They’re easy to throw on, but tough enough for just about anything. If you’ve been looking for a barefoot-friendly clog that actually performs outside, this is it.

Sizing: These run a little small and only come in full sizes, so I’d recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes. I found the Women’s size 7 a little small, so the 8 was a better fit. The volume felt good on my higher instep, and I like that these are adjustable with a strap similar to the Bedrock Sandals.

Best fit for: They fit medium to wide feet and can fit adjust to higher volume.

Shipping: These are available directly from Bedrock, with free shipping and free returns in the US (so you don’t have to sweat the fit so much!). They also have a more limited selection available at REI, which often has stock in-store for try ons, as well as free in-store returns.

Best Customizable: Drifter Leather Solis Clogs

EU36 – 42 | €130

Drifter Leather is a barefoot shoe brand that periodically offers both ready-to-ship and custom-fitting barefoot shoes. If you’ve been having a hard time find the perfect fit for you, send your foot measurements or a tracing to help the Drifter Leather adjust the clog to better suit your foot. I opted for their standard fit in this clog, and found that the the leather uppers are low volume over the toes (as you can see below) and start out a little stiff, so I’ve been needing to break them in both to soften them up and stretch them out. I do wish they’d increase some volume at the toes, and even add a bit more structure here at the front (like the new Mukishoes or Birkenstock clogs).

These clogs use a 5mm Superflex Vibram sole that strike a great balance of cushioning, bounce, and flexibility.

The back straps have built in elastic, and secure with metal rivets with two holes on each side for adjustability. Even though they rivets are covered by leather, they’re still a bit pronounced on the inside. I may add a small piece of moleskin for extra padding. You can also remove the back strap entirely to wear them as slides.

I’m wearing these in the purple glicine color, but they also come in black, brown and burgundy.

Best fit for: Standard sizing is best fit for medium width and medium volume (lower over the toes, and slightly tight over the top of my higher instep). As these can be customizable, you can work with them to get the best fit possible.

Sizing: I’m wearing an EU37, which feels like the right length if I can scoot my foot to the front of the shoe. Because of the low volume at the toes, my feet end up getting pushed back a bit. As the leather is stretching and softening, they are become a better fit.

More Barefoot Clogs

If you didn’t find quite what you’re looking for in this list above, here are a few more options including slip-ons.

SaguarO SeRENE Mules

EU36 – 44 | $61 | KELLY15 for 15% off

These are backless, so technically mules rather than clogs. As with most of Saguaro’s lineup, they’re a more affordable option—which also means they use lower-cost materials, like the microfiber uppers you see here.

Saguaro

barebound ikaros

EU35 – 44 | $188

This is another clog I haven’t had a chance to try yet, but they look like they use the same outsole as the Lang.S Mira T-Bar flats and the Kombat Boots. I’ve loved this sole–it has a great chunky look, but is still pretty lightweight and flexible.

Barebound

RuBY BAREFOOT

EU35 – 43 | $84 | KELLY35 for 35% off

Handmade leather barefoot clogs crafted in Turkey and sold on Etsy. They run large, and the front panel offers less coverage than most clogs—it doesn’t extend as far over the top of the foot—so the fit is quite adjustable thanks to the long back strap. That said, I still have a lot of extra sole length in my EU37, and would size down to an EU36 for my 23.3cm feet next time.

Ruby

earthing harmony mules

US6 – 15 | $135 | KELLY for $10 off

This is another convenient slip-on option, but it does compromise on some barefoot features—most notably, the lack of a back strap means the fit isn’t as secure. They feature leather uppers and a leather sole with a copper grounding plug. These leather soles start out quite slippery and need to be scuffed up for better traction, very similar to the Feelbarefoot Etsy brand.

earthing harmony

Final Thoughts

If you thought you had to give up clogs when switching to barefoot shoes, I hope this guide helps you find a barefoot version you love.

Have a barefoot clog you love that I didn’t mention? Let me know—I’m always looking for more to test!

The post The Best Barefoot Clogs: Comfy, Easy, and Actually Foot-Shaped 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!

Code KELLYMUKI for 10% off

The post Mukishoes Brand Review: Truly Barefoot, Creatively Sustainable and Colorful appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

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

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!

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!

The post BLUSUN Barefoot Shoes Review: Classic and Cool Barefoot Sneakers appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Clogs are trending right now, and they’re an easy, comfy style to pair with a casual outfit. The Birkenstock Lutry is a cute and well-made clog, but like all Birkenstocks, it comes with an overly stiff and supportive cork insole. For someone that wears barefoot shoes, it feels more like a cast than a shoe.  I want my feet to be able to move naturally, and the cork insole makes that impossible.

Luckily, the insole is pretty easy to pop out on the Lutry clog, and you’re left with a slip-on shoe that has a nice, wide toe box and a pretty flexible sole. I replaced the cork with a wool insole that I cut down for size, and now I have a cozy, comfortable barefoot clog that’s good for my feet.

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.

Are Birkenstocks barefoot?

No, Birkenstocks aren’t considered barefoot shoes. While they have a wide toe box and a natural foot shape, their thick cork footbed is very stiff and includes arch support and a raised toe bar—all features that limit natural foot movement and ground feel. True barefoot shoes are completely flat from heel-to-toe without any added support, flexible, and allow your feet to move naturally.

Why use the Birkenstock Lutry?

It’s true, there are barefoot clogs that don’t need any modifications. But, none of them quite fit the style and quality I was looking for. Birkenstock shoes are known for being exceptionally well-made, and as someone that typically can’t buy the conventional, trendy brand, it was an easy way to modify the shoe and get exactly what I wanted.

While these Birkenstock clogs are a similar price point to many of the barefoot clogs, it’s more likely that you’ll be able to find them on sale. For example, I purchased mine for $80 during their Black Friday sale.

When the cork insole is removed, the Lutry fits all of the barefoot features that I look for. The remaining rubber soles is zero drop and flexible. They’re also really wide. Birkenstocks are often available in two widths: Medium/Narrow and Regular/Wide. The women’s sizes for the Lutry are Birkenstock’s Medium/Narrow width, but it’s actually very wide. For example, when I cut down the wool insole for my EU37 Lutry, the width was 9.6cm. This is wider than most of the barefoot shoes I own. The men’s Lutry is available in the Regular/Wide width, so some sizes are available in both widths.

Step-by-Step Instructions on converting your Birkenstock Lutry Clogs in to Barefoot Shoes

Here’s how to make your own barefoot clogs from the Birkenstock Lutry.

1. Figure out your size for the Lutry clogs when the cork insole is removed
   • I wear an EU37 in a Birkenstock sandal or clog with the cork insole included. The EU37 is supposed to have 24cm of usable insole space. I opted for the same size (EU37) in the Lutry clog as I planned to added a thicker wool insole to add warmth, cushion, and take up some of the excess space. Because the cork insole cups the heel at the back, there’s a lot of extra room once you take it out. When I traced and cut out the wool insole as a replacement, it was about 25cm long, so you can plan on about 1cm of extra space when you remove the cork insole.
   • Wool: When I’m wearing a 5mm thick wool insole and a pair of thicker wool socks, size EU37 fits me a little loose. If I double stack them to 10mm and only have a thin sock, it’s a pretty good fit. I have a higher instep, so if you have a lower instep/low volume foot, you’ll likely need an even thicker insole to take up room in the shoe, or size down.
   • Sheepskin: The sheepskin insole takes up a lot more room, so that plus a pair of medium wool socks offered the best fit for me. The sheepskin will compress over time, so it may end up starting to feel a little loose after more wear. I’ll check back in and update if it does!
   • If I wasn’t planning on adding as thick of an insole, then I’d probably want to size down.
   • I’ve seen the women’s sizes listed as medium/narrow, and the men’s as regular/wide. For my medium width feet, the medium/narrow width is pretty roomy.
2. Order your Clogs
   • Birkenstock has the biggest selection, but you can also order them from a few other retailers, like REI.
3. Remove the Cork Insole:
   • Pop out the cork insole from your Lutry clog. Since it’s not glued or attached, it comes out without damaging the shoe, but you do need to maneuver it around a bit. The leather goes all the way around the back of the shoe, so this doesn’t affect the structure.
4. Buy a wool or sheepskin insole:
   • Felted wool or sheepskin insoles are two of the best options as they’ll both take up some of the excess volume in the shoe, and keep your feet warm.
   • Wool: I purchased the largest size in this wool insole to ensure I’d have enough room in the toe box.
   • Sheepskin: These are a good option for an affordable sheepskin insole.
   • Find a comprehensive list of insoles for barefoot shoes here.
5. Trace the Cork Insole:
   • Lay the cork insole on top of your wool or sheepskin insole. Use a marker or pen to trace its outline onto the wool. This will ensure you cut the insole to the exact size and shape of the original.
6. Cut the Wool Insole:
   • Using scissors, carefully cut along the outline you traced. If you didn’t trace, simply cut the wool insole down bit by bit, testing the fit inside the clog as you go. Since the most sheepskin insoles are the sheepskin layer sown onto a layer of felt, I made sure to trace my outline so I would only be cutting at the front. After the cut, these two layers are obviously no longer sewn together at that part, but I haven’t had any issues with anything moving around as most of it is still sewn together.
7. Insert the New Insole:
   • Place the trimmed insole into the clog. Adjust as needed to ensure it lies flat and fits snugly.
8. Test the Fit:
   • Put on the clogs and take a few steps to check the fit and comfort. If necessary, remove the insole and trim any areas that feel too snug.

By replacing the cork insole in your Birkenstock Lutry clogs with a wool or sheepskin insole, you’re transforming them into a more flexible, barefoot-friendly option. This simple modification supports natural foot function while maintaining the timeless style of your clogs. Give it a try and enjoy the freedom and comfort of your customized footwear!

Can you make the Birkenstock Boston Clogs barefoot?

While a skilled cobbler could technically remove the cork insole of the Birkenstock Boston to make it more flexible and barefoot-friendly, it’s a much more involved process than the Lutry clog. On a Boston clog (or even the Tokio), The cork footbed is glued directly to the outsole and provides much of the shoe’s structure. Removing it would mean carefully ungluing and scraping out the cork, which is time-consuming—and you’d still need to replace it with something that adds a bit of structure and fills the space.

That’s why the Lutry clog is so much easier for a DIY barefoot conversion: the cork insole isn’t glued in, and the suede upper wraps around the back of the heel, giving the shoe enough structure to swap in a thinner, more flexible insole.

Clogs from Barefoot Shoe Brands

If you’d rather opt directly for a clog from a barefoot shoe brand, check these out. I’ve created a more detailed review of barefoot clogs right here.

BEDROCK MOUNTAIN Clogs

Women’s US6 – Men’s US14 | $160 – $175

These are the durable, adventure-ready take on the everyday clog. With a wide toe box, zero drop, and a Vibram Megagrip sole, they strike a nice balance between barefoot functionality and all-terrain capability. You can wear them loose like a slip-on or use the strap for a more secure fit. They come in nubuck, suede, or synthetic suede uppers.

They’re a bit stiffer than your average barefoot shoe due to the thicker, heavily lugged sole, but still flexible enough to move naturally. They’re easy to throw on, but tough enough for just about anything. If you’ve been looking for a barefoot-friendly clog that actually performs outside, this is it.

BEDROCK clogs

REI

Be Flamboyant vegan clog

EU36 – 46 | $149 | KELLY10 for 10% off

Be Flamboyant is a Spanish brand that makes vegan barefoot shoes with a chunkier-looking sole. Most of their soles are just 5mm. These are the coziest barefoot clogs, lined with faux shearling. I wear the EU38, which is a great fit for me.

Be Flamboyant

MUKISHOES SOCA CLOGS

EU36 – 48 | €89 | Code KELLYMUKI for 10% off

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, plus a cork midsole that adds a touch of cushion. They pulled in a lot of great elements from the original Birk 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. Read a full review here including fit and sizing tips.

Mukishoes soca

DRIFTER LEATHER SOLIS Clogs

EU36 – 42 | €130

Drifter Leather is a smaller barefoot shoe brand that periodically offers both ready-to-ship and custom-fitting barefoot shoes. These clogs use a 5mm Superflex Vibram sole that strike a great balance of cushioning, bounce, and flexibility. The leather uppers are low volume and start out a little stiff, so I’ve been needing to break them in both to soften them up and stretch them out.

Drifter leather

SaguarO SeRENE Mules

EU36 – 44 | $61 | KELLY15 for 15% off

These are backless, so technically mules rather than clogs. As with most of Saguaro’s lineup, they’re a more affordable option—which also means they use lower-cost materials, like the microfiber uppers you see here.

Saguaro

RuBY BAREFOOT

EU35 – 43 | $84 | KELLY35 for 35% off

These handmade leather barefoot clogs are crafted in Turkey and sold on Etsy. They run large, and the front panel offers less coverage than most clogs—it doesn’t extend as far over the top of the foot—so the fit is quite adjustable thanks to the long back strap. That said, I still have a lot of extra sole length in my EU37, and would size down to an EU36 for my 23.3cm feet next time.

Ruby

earthing harmony mules

EU6 – 15 | $135 | KELLY35 for 35% off

This is another convenient slip-on option, but it does compromise on some barefoot features—most notably, the lack of a back strap means the fit isn’t as secure. They feature leather uppers and a leather sole with a copper grounding plug. These leather soles start out quite slippery and need to be scuffed up for better traction, very similar to the Feelbarefoot Etsy brand.

earthing harmony

The post How to turn your Birkenstock Lutry Clogs into Barefoot Shoes appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

The Adidas Samba has made waves in 2024 and continuing into 2025 as one of the most popular sneakers on the market. Known for its vintage-inspired design, versatile style, and large selection of color combinations, it’s easy to see why it’s made such a comeback. 

However, while the Adidas Samba has a lot to offer in aesthetics, it lacks some of the key features that barefoot shoe enthusiasts look for, like a wide toe box and a zero-drop sole. This posts lists my top 7 picks for barefoot shoes like the Adidas Samba, plus more options at the end!

A little history on the Adidas Samba 

The Adidas Samba was originally released in 1950 as a soccer shoe designed to help players maintain traction on icy, hard ground, making it one of Adidas’ oldest models. You likely wouldn’t equate this first design to the Samba you’re seeing on the streets today—it looked more like a hiking boot with a rubber toe cap than an effortlessly cool sneaker.  

Over time, the Samba’s functionality and style transitioned it from the soccer field to the streets, and it became a casual staple thanks to its simple, sleek design and versatility. 

Recently, the Samba design of the 1990s has experienced a major resurgence, driven by a growing trend toward retro, minimalist sneakers. 

However, despite its popularity, the Samba has common drawbacks. Even those that only wear conventional shoes often complain about the extra narrow toe box, the rigid sole, or the stiff ankle that can cause blisters.  

What to look for in comfortable, barefoot sneakers 

If you want to balance foot health with fashion, check out these barefoot shoes like the Adidas Samba. All of these barefoot shoe alternatives feature: 

• Wide, naturally-shaped toe box
• Flat, zero-drop sole
• Thin, flexible sole

Sizing reference

For most of these shoes, I’ll provide a sizing reference based on my experience with the fit. Read more on measuring your feet for barefoot shoes here.

I’m most often a US7.5/EU38 in my barefoot sneakers and casual shoes. My feet are medium (‘B’) width and measure 23.3cm long with a higher instep and narrower ankle. I typically look for shoes with an extra 1.2cm of space.

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!

Barefoot Shoes like the Adidas Samba

These barefoot shoes combine the Samba’s vintage appeal with a more natural fit and feel.

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Best Overall: Groundies Panama

Leather and Suede uppers | $140 Shop Groundies US or Groundies EU

First up is the Groundies Panama, which captures the look and feel of the Samba the best. The faux sidewall makes the sole appear thicker than it is, so you still get great flexibility out of these barefoot shoes. The uppers are high quality leather and suede, and come in class white, bold maroon, black, and green. These fit narrow to medium width feet best. I opted for a EU38 based on my 23.3cm foot measurement.

Shop Groundies US

Shop Groundies EU

Best Affordable: WHITIN Suede Patchwork Shoes

Mesh and Suede Uppers | $42 on Amazon | Shop WHITIN

WHITIN is known for its affordable minimalist shoes sold on Amazon. The quality is solid for the price. While you don’t usually see natural materials on these shoes, this trendy barefoot sneaker has part-suede uppers. The contrasting mesh does look a bit cheap. The cushion behind the heel feels bulky, and ultimately they don’t feel quite as “barefoot” compared to the more established brands, but they are a great entry-level minimalist shoe. I opted for the US7.5/EU38. These are currently only available in women’s sizes. Read the full WHITIN brand review…

Shop WHITIN

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Best for Ground feel: Mukishoes Lyra

Leather and Suede leather uppers | €130 | Code KELLYMUKI for 10% off | Shop Mukishoes

The Lyra sneakers are ideal for a true barefoot shoe lover, with an ultra-flexible 3.5 mm sole, topped only with a thin leather insole. The uppers come in this mint green suede, a white leather and suede combo, or leopard print. Like most Mukishoes, these are a good fit for medium width feet and accommodate my higher instep well. They feel a little roomier than some of my other Mukishoes, though I do wish I had a touch more room around the pinky toe. I wear an EU38. Read the full Mukishoes review…

Shop MuKISHOES

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Best for Narrower Feet: Blusun 200

Nubuck and Suede leather uppers | €140 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off | Shop Blusun

Blusun is a new barefoot shoe brand that launched in 2024, and their Samba-inspired sneaker immediately caught my eye, especially the minty green and bright sky blue colorways.

They’re made with nubuck and suede leather and feature a 5mm flexible sole, putting them firmly on the “very barefoot” end of the spectrum.

These sneakers are best suited for narrower, lower-volume feet. On my higher instep, they feel a bit snug — and since they don’t come with a removable insole, there’s no way to create more space. I went with an EU37, which is a little short on length. If I were to order again, I’d stick with my usually EU38, especially as I need more width and volume in this style. Read the full Blusun review…

ShoP Blusun

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Best for Wider Feet: Bohempia Felix

Hemp Canvas and Vegan Suede Uppers | €139 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off | Shop Bohempia

The Bohempia Felix is a great option for wider feet and anyone looking for a breathable, vegan-friendly sneaker. The uppers are made from lightweight hemp canvas and vegan suede, making them a good choice for warmer weather.

They’ve recently expanded their color options, so you can now pair the white canvas with blue, green, or pink faux suede accents.

Although the sidewall looks a bit higher, the sole is actually just 4mm thick, with an additional 4mm removable insole for a touch of cushion. The Felix comes in both regular barefoot and wide widths. I chose an EU38 in regular, which already feels spacious on my medium-width feet. The wide version should work well for those with extra wide feet.

Shop Bohempia

Discount Code: KELLY10

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Best Vegan: Ohne Project 070

Vegan For Leather and Microfiber Suede Uppers | $171 | KELLY10 for 10% off | Shop Ohne Project

Ohne Project is a Spanish brand that makes retro minimalist sneakers. All are 100% vegan. They started off with some 80s inspired sneakers, and recently dropped a collection of Adidas Samba-inspired kicks, including a lot of colorful options. They’re best suited for narrow to medium width feet. They come with two sets of insoles (3mm and 5mm) to adjust volume and cushion. As someone with a higher instep, I’m most comfortable without any insoles. Size EU38 fits me best. Read the full Ohne Project brand review…

Discount Code: KELLY10

Best Dressy Sneakers: Gaucho Ninja Sneaky Ninja Retro Trainers

Leather and Suede Uppers | $174 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off | Shop Gaucho Ninja

Gaucho Ninja shoes always have quality you can feel, and these retro trainers are no different. I like that these feel like a dressier, more polished sneaker thanks to the design, materials and leather laces. They’re a good fit for medium to wide width feet, and have a strong slope shape. With the included insole, they fit lower volume feet; I removed the insole for more space. I wear these in an EU38.

More barefoot shoes like the Adidas Samba

The above would be my top picks for the specific categories, but everyone is looking for a little different fit, style or color. Here are more barefoot shoes like the Adidas Samba that may be a better fit for you.

Saguaro Shoes Dash 1

Mesh and Microfiber Uppers | $61 | Code KELLY15 for 15% off | Shop Saguaro

The Dash I sneakers from Saguaro are part Adidas Samba, part Onitsuka Tiger. They’re a little busy design-wise, but the green sole and yellow logo make a fun statement. If that’s not your vibe, other Dash colorways skip the T-toe and lean more toward a classic Tiger look.

They’re another solid affordable option — just know the materials feel on the cheaper side. The biggest downside? They sell out fast! I’m wearing an EU38. Read the Saguaro Shoe brand review…

Shop Saguaro

Magical Shoes Nova Sneakers

Suede Uppers | $155 | Code KELLY for 10% off | Shop Magical Shoes

If you like color, the Nova sneakers come in this cute bubblegum pink, as well as a bright blue, cherry red, muted green, and purplish-blue, and dark brown. They’re a great match for medium-width, high-volume feet. The toe box appears slightly molded and reinforced to preserve that roomy fit, which is great for comfort, but as the reinforcing sits a bit back from the edge of the sole, it can look slightly awkward (you can see what I mean in the comparison photo with the Mukishoes at the top of this section).

Like other Magical Shoes sneakers, I had to size up. I’m wearing an EU39 here.

Best for Extra Wide Toe Splay: Realfoot Copero

Leather and Suede Uppers | €166 | Shop Realfoot

Realfoot shoes are catered to those with “pizza feet” — an extra wide toe splay, but narrower midfoot and ankle. They say they have the widest toe box in the world, and that just might be the case (the toe box is 10.8cm for an EU38). The Copera sneakers are made with leather and suede, and feature the popular T-toe, along with two side stripes. The 4mm sole is very flexible, topped by a 4mm insole that offers shock-absorption and cushion on harder surfaces.  

Koel Barefoot ILA Napa

Leather Uppers | $151 | Shop Koel

The Koel ILA sneakers have some of the signature features of the Samba like the suede T-toe and side stripes (but here it’s two instead of three). But, they feel somewhat different stylistically as they were also inspired by golf shoes. These feature a wide toe box and 5mm natural rubber sole.

Final Thoughts

If you love the classic look of the Adidas Samba but don’t want to be like so many people I’ve heard lamenting their foot pain and blisters after wearing them, then get a shoe that is foot-shaped, flat, and flexible. Today’s barefoot shoe brands are making sneakers that don’t compromise on style or foot health, as you can see in the list above! Remember, not all minimalist sneakers are created equal, and the best barefoot shoe for you is going to be the one that best fits your foot shape, width and volume.

I hope this post helped you narrow down your options as you search for barefoot shoes like the Adidas Samba. If you end up trying one of these pairs, I’d love to hear how it goes!

The post Top 7 Barefoot Shoes Like the Adidas Samba  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

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. 

Code KELLY15 for 15% off

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.

Black, white, brown…neutral sneakers go with everything, but sometimes looking down and seeing that little pop of color makes me smile and brings some personality to an otherwise plain outfit. If you’ve been looking for pink barefoot sneakers, here’s a quick round-up of some of my favorites.  

I’ve included both leather and vegan options, and included notes about fit and sizing for each style.  

All of these barefoot shoes feature a wide, anatomically shaped toe box and a flat and flexible sole.

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!

Pink Barefoot Sneakers

1 Saguaro Shoes Luck Sneakers

Knit Uppers (Vegan) | Retail: $50 – $60 | code KELLY15 to get 15% | Sizes: EU35 – 49 | Stack height: 5mm + 4mm  removable insole | Shop Saguaro Shoes

Code KELLY15 for 15% off

Saguaro Shoes has a lot of affordable barefoot styles, and quite a few of them come in pink. Some of my favorites are the Luck styles, which usually run between $50 to $60. You can use code KELLY15 to get 15% off on the Saguaro Shoes website.  

 These are made from knit and mesh and are reasonably breathable. They have extra padding around the heel collar to make the more comfortable. Most of the Luck styles have a sock-like fit, though you still can adjust some with laces. 

Fit & Sizing: Fit Sizing for Saguaro shoes varies for me based on the type of sole. These Luck styles mostly use the cactus sole, which I find very comfortable in an EU38 based on my 23.3cm, medium width feet. It’s the advanced 6mm sole that’s used for most of the Saguaro hiking shoes that I find runs a little more tapered and small. 

 Shipping & Returns: Free shipping within the US on orders over $18. Return new and unused shoes within 30 days. The buyer is responsible for the return shipping. 

2 Feelgrounds Original Mesh and Luxe Sneakers

Mesh Uppers or Faux Leather Uppers (Vegan) | Retail: $109 | Sizes: EU35 – 49 | Stack height: 5mm | Shop Feelgrounds

I’ve always gravitated towards Feelgrounds as they have the perfect fit and feel for me. The rubber soles provide a good balance of flexibility and ground feel. In 2023, they upgraded their soles for a more durable natural rubber, so they last longer, but are slightly stiffer. There’s more details in this Feelgrounds brand review.  If you want a little more cushion, they offer 3mm insole. 

 The Original mesh sneakers come in a range of colors, including  light pink. The luxe faux leather sneakers are offered in metallic rose. 

Fit & Sizing: Feelgrounds fit medium to wide width feet and up to high volume. The mesh and knit shoes tend to have a roomier fit than the luxe or canvas. I wear an EU38 in all of my Feelgrounds sneakers. 

Shipping & Returns: Shipping is about $17 from Germany to the US. Returns must be made within 30 days of receipt of shoes in new, unused condition. A prepaid return label is $15. 

3 Lang.S Zen and Onyx Sneakers 

Leather Uppers | Retail: €120 | Code KELLY for 10% off | Sizes: EU 36 – 41 | Stack height: 6mm + 2mm removeable insole | Shop Lang.S

The Lang.S sneakers are made from the softest chrome-free leather. The inside is also fully lined with soft, smooth leather. The Zen come in a Dusty pink, while the Onyx have a metallic pink side panel.  These are in adult sizes, but Tikki also has sparkly pink barefoot sneakers in girl’s sizes.  

Fit & Sizing: The new Lang.S Shoes are a great fit for medium width feet. They fit my higher instep well, even with the insole. I found the size chart accurate and opted for an EU37 for all of tmy Lang.S shoes based on my 23.3 cm foot measurement. This means the Lang.S sizing runs a little large, as I’m most often an EU38.  

Shipping & Returns: Shipping is about €30 from Romania to the US. Returns must be made within 30 days of receipt of shoes in new, unused condition. Must return to Timisoara, Romania.  

Watch this video to learn more about the rebrand of Tikki Shoes to Lang.S. 

4 Shapen RE:WIND Sneakers

Leather and Suede Uppers | Retail: €149 | Code BFSHOEGUIDE for 5% off | Sizes: EU 35 – 44 | Stack height: 5.5mm | Shop Shapen

Code BFSHOEGUIDE for 5% off

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

Fit & Sizing: Like most of Shapen’s shoes, these Re:wind sneakers 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. 

Shipping & Returns: Shipping to the US is €25 and takes 6 – 9 business days. Shipping within the EU is €6 – €14 and takes 2 – 5 business days. Returns are not accepted outside the EU. Returns within the EU are accepted within 30 days, buyer pays return shipping.  

Read a full review of Shapen’s sneakers, boots and women’s dress shoes here.

5 Ahinsa Vida Hemp Sneakers 

Hemp Canvas Uppers (Vegan) | Retail: €149 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off | Sizes: EU 37 – 43 | Stack height: 4mm + removeable insole | Shop Ahinsa

Code KELLY10 for 10% off

The Ahinsa sneakers are a good option for those that want vegan materials as the uppers use a breathable hemp canvas. They also come in bright red and white.  

Ahinsa shoes come in a barefoot version and a comfort version. The comfort version usually has a thicker insole included that has a small heel drop that is supposed to compress to zero drop under body weight.  

Fit & Sizing: I opted for these in an EU38, and they have more room than most of my other sneakers in the same size, but not so much that I’d size down. The shape on these is more of a bean shape, with a narrow heal and a curve out at the toe box. This accommodates a wider toe splay, but has more room than I need as my foot is more straight than bean shaped.  

Shipping & Returns: Ahinsa is based in the Czech Republic. EU delivery ranges from €11-16, and delivery to USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand ranges €16-22. They accept new and unworn shoes within 14 days. The buyer is responsible for the return shipping. 

More Pink Barefoot Sneakers

Here are a few more options for pink barefoot sneakers.

Minnemals | light pink athletic sneakers. Code KELLY10 for 10% off.

Splay Shoes | Splay has several of their barefoot shoe styles available in pink, and in both adult and kid’s sizes. Check out the lace up sneakers the freestyle and the new slip-ons in a light pink. The kid’s explore with velcro is available in a bright coral pink or a pink tie-dye. Use code KELLY10 for 10% off.

Anatomic Sneakers | These are harder to get in the US, but are sometimes available at US retailer PedTerra. Use code KELLY for 10% off your first purchase. Shop on the Anatomic website here.

Any we missed? Let us know in the comments.

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Converse dubs it’s Chuck Taylor All Star as a “must-have for everyone’s wardrobe” with its iconic and timeless silhouette. Most people would recognize a pair of Chucks anywhere. And while I do love the simple but classic style, I don’t love the overly narrow toe box.  

If you’ve been looking for a wide or extra wide version of Converse All-Stars, this post has a list of the best options.

Many of us have spent decades trying to find our favorite shoe styles, only to start the process all over again when we learn about barefoot shoes. Of course, most will attest that this inconvenience is totally worth it for the long-term foot health, but it doesn’t mean it isn’t frustrating. 

Thankfully, as more barefoot shoe companies have emerged and brands are expanding their offerings, they’re branching out beyond the most basic of styles. If you loved your Vans, Nike Dunks, or Converse All Stars, you can now find a very similar barefoot version. 

If you were a huge Chuck Taylor fan, then you’ll want to check out these barefoot shoes that look like Converse, but without the painfully narrow toe box. 

Best Barefoot Shoes like Converse All Stars 

Aintap FeelBarefoot Shop on Etsy – Wide Converse Style Sneakers

Leather Uppers | 6 mm rubber sole | $99 using Code KELLY50 on Etsy 

This is one of my favorite Etsy shops for barefoot shoes due to the quality craftsmanship, extensive colors to choose from and customization options. 

They offer shoes with both a leather sole and a rubber sole. You can get these wider Converse-style shoes with either sole. I like the leather sole for dressier shoes (check out their oxfords), but they are a bit stiffer than a rubber sole. For these sneakers, I opted for the 6mm rubber sole. The rubber sole comes in black, off-white or tan. I have the off-white, which I wish did come in a true white that matched the white leather. There is also an insole that provides a few millimeters of cushion. It is glued down, so I wouldn’t recommend removing it.  

The uppers are full leather, including the contrasting toe cap. This makes them look a dressier than your standard canvas Converse Chucks. You can get them in a ton of different colors, including metallics and prints.

Fit and sizing: 

The Feelbarefoot Converse sneakers fit medium volume and medium width feet best. They feel like a good fit for my feet overall, but I don’t have a lot of extra width or space. I opted for an EU38, which feels like I have just enough room. Note that the measurements for the men’s size chart are slightly different than the women’s, so make sure you’re ordering from the correct page to get the right size for you.  

Bohempia Herlik and Orik Sneakers

Hemp Canvas Uppers | 8 mm stack height | €129 – €129 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off 

Bohempia was the first brand I found making barefoot shoes like Converse. They have both low-tops and high-tops. 

Just like Converse, these have a rubber toe cap and a dark stripe around the outsole. They do have quite a squared angle at the big toe, which I’d love to see softened a bit.  

Both the Orik high tops and the Herlik Low tops come in the popular colors of black and white, but they have a few crighter colors as well, like red and yellow. 

These Converse lookalikes by Bohempia use hemp canvas uppers. Hemp canvas has a lot of amazing properties; it’s very strong and durable, as well as antibacterial, naturally moisture-wicking, and odor resistant. 

The shoes feature a 4mm sole along with a removable 4mm foam insole.  

Fit and sizing: 

Bohempia shoes are available in a regular barefoot width and a wide barefoot width. The regular barefoot width is already very generous and is best for those with medium to wide feet. At my EU38 size, the regular width shoes are9.5cm. The he wide barefoot version is 10.3cm in an EU38. 

Bohempia fit medium to high volume feet well. I have a higher instep, and find these comfortable with the included insole.  

I find that they fit true to size according to the size chart. With my 23.3cm foot length, I look for shoes around 24.5cm, which matches up with the insole measurement for the EU38. 

Other Barefoot Shoes like Converse All-Stars 

Groundies True Star – I haven’t seen these on Groundies in awhile, but the next closest option at this brand is the Brooklyn. 

Zapata Feroz Jérica – This Spanish brand has a barefoot shoe that is somewhat reminiscent of Converse shoes with a white toe cap 

Zaqq Chuqqs – This German brand made their version of the Chuck Taylors, and aptly called them Chuqqs. These are leather sneakers with a white toe cap. 

The post Barefoot Shoes like Converse All Stars  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Many barefoot shoe brands struggle to find their footing, but Ohne Project started strong right out of the gate with their first release, an ’80s style sneaker. Since they launched in 2024, it seems like it’s been non-stop with new colors and new styles. Now their lineup includes everything from ‘90s retro sneakers and Adidas Samba lookalikes to chunky dad sneakers, sneakerinas, and loafers. They’ve even teamed up with other Spanish brands like Clotsy and NWHR for some really fun collabs.

About the Brand

Ohne Project was created by Manel and Hanna, vegan food bloggers that learned about and fell in love with the barefoot lifestyle. When they didn’t find any sneakers they totally loved, they decided to create their own. Conveniently, they both had backgrounds that were very useful to starting a barefoot shoe company–Manel previously studied footwear design and Hanna worked in textile engineering.

The first sneaker from Ohne is called Project 080. Yes, it’s another white sneaker, but its definitely not boring. I love the 80s vibe, and appreciate that they come with two insoles so you can adjust the cushion/volume.

Ohne Project is based on Spain, and the shoe are handmade in Elche, Spain.

Discount Code

You can use code KELLY10 for 10% off at Ohne Project.

Materials

Ohne Project is a fully vegan brand. They use a variety of materials, but make it a priority to use plant-based and recycled materials. For example, the uppers of the Project 080 are made from corn waste and cotton, and the sole is made from recycled rubber.

Pricing

Ohne Project’s barefoot shoes come in at a higher price point, typically starting near €140.

Shipping and Returns

Ohne only accepts returns from EU countries. That means if you’re in the US, you unfortunately won’t be able to send them back for a refund, so double check all the fit and sizing tips below before you order. If they end up not working out, these will likely be easier ones to resell as they often sell out of styles quickly.

Shipping to the US was $20 for a single pair of shoes, but note that shipping rates can fluctuate throughout the year (and on location, obviously).

Ohne Project Barefoot Styles

Project 060 | 070 | 080 | 090

I’ll review these all together since they all use the same outsole, and have a very similar fit and feel; it’s mostly just a difference in the upper panels. Ohne has essentially created their own barefoot take on the sneaker of the decade, from the ’60s through the ’90s. They’ve been quickly releasing their shoes in all sorts of different color combos and materials, but if you see one you like, note that they often sell out. The Project 060 are their most simple design, the 070 is reminiscent of the Adidas Samba, the 080 have the look of the 80s Reeboks, and the 90s were inspired classic basketball kicks.

Fit and sizing: Sizing runs from EU 36 to EU46.

Width: Ohne Project barefoot shoes are best for narrow to medium width. Per the size chart, the width starts at 8.9cm for the EU36, and goes up to 10.6cm for the EU46. I have medium width feet (‘B’ width), and they’re just wide enough in my size at slightly over 9cm. The shoes are unisex, so there is no men’s or women’s sizing that have a difference in width.

Volume: The sneakers come with two sets of insoles: 3mm and 5mm. You can use these to adjust for low to high volume and your cushion preference. I have a higher instep, and I’m most comfortable without any of the insoles.

Size: I find that these fit true to size. I originally tried the EU37, which felt a little bit short for my 23.3cm feet. I typically look for shoes with an insole of 24.5cm (1.2cm longer than my foot measurement). When I measured the insole, it came up a little bit shorter than the size chart. Sizing up to the EU38 was a much better fit for my feet.

KELLY10 for 10% off

Retro Run Sneakers

If you’ve been following Ohne Project’s releases, you might have noticed a theme: a sneaker for every decade. Their latest, the Retro Run, nods to the early 2000s with a classic dad-sneaker aesthetic. Despite the chunky look, these are still completely zero-drop. The sole is a bit heavier than other Ohne Project styles and less minimal than what die-hard barefoot purists might prefer, but it offers a nice balance of style and function. Unlike their other sneakers, which feature custom soles, the Retro Run uses a factory-developed sole also found on other barefoot brands (like the Dolfie Paradise Supersonics, another Spanish brand known for their cool, retro-inspired designs and laid-back vibe).

Kima Sneakerina

After the chunky look and feel of the Retro Run, Ohne scaled things back with their newest release and latest collaboration. The Kima Sneakerina is a collab with the barefoot shoe brand Libertas. I’ve been seeing sneakerinas all over fashion magazines, and it’s so fun to see a trend come to barefoot shoes so quickly (usually it feels like it’s at least a full year/season before a new trend makes it’s way to barefoot shoes).

Like the conventional trending styles, these are a combination of a sneaker and a ballet flat, but this time with a wide toe box. The soles on these are zero-drop, of course, with a barely-there outsole and a 3mm insole. These barefoot sneakerinas sold out quickly, but they’ll be launching new colors soon.

Luma Loafers

As a brand that’s on top of the trends, a barefoot loafer is an obvious choice for the first non-sneaker shoe from Ohne Project. The Luma design features their signature chunky-looking sole that’s surprisingly flexible and lightweight, paired with eco-friendly corn leather uppers.

Final Thoughts

Ohne Project has quickly become one of my favorite barefoot shoe brands, and it’s easy to see why. They combine fashion-forward, retro-inspired designs with the comfort and natural feel we expect from barefoot shoes. No matter what decade you’re drawn to, or what color you love, there’s bound to be an Ohne barefoot sneaker you’ll love.

And as a brand that’s staying with the fashion curve, they’ll likely be one of the first to bring some of the freshest trends to the barefoot shoe world. And when they do, check back here for my updated review.

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