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

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

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

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

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

About Softstar Shoes 

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

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

Sizing Reference 

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

Softstar Barefoot Shoe Reviews

Softstar Ballerines 

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

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

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

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

SOM Footwear Mesa Sneakers 

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

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

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

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

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

Primal RunAmoc

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

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

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

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

Camino Sandals

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

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

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

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

Fireside Slippers

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

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

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

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

Moccasins and Ramblers for Toddlers and Kids

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts 

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

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

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

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

Looking for the coziest sheepskin house slippers? The Softstar Fireside Slippers are what slipper dreams are made of. I’ve had mine for years, and every fall I can’t wait for the moment it’s finally time to pull them back out. They’re that good!

Now there are two versions to choose from: the original soft-soled Fireside, and the new S’mores, which has a thin Vibram sole for stepping outside.

Foot-shaped Slippers

Because these slippers are made by a barefoot shoe brand, they feature a natural foot-shape. No squished toes here! In addition to the wide roomy toe box, there are no hidden heel lifts, and they securely attach to your feet, so they’re perfect for the barefoot shoe lover.

Materials

The Softstar Fireside Slippers are fully lined with plush sheepskin fleece, including an extra fluffy insole. The insoles can be removed and replaced — Softstar sells the replacement insoles on their website. This is a great option as the slippers are fairly expensive, and being able to replace the part that wears out the easiest improves the sustainability and longevity of the slippers.

There is no other materials for the sole other than the leather and fleece on the Fireside Slippers, so they’re super lightweight and flexible, and truly a house slipper. Like all of Softstar’s shoes, these are handmade in their Oregon workshop.

The S’mores slippers have similar construction, but with an added Vibram sole.

Sizing

Softstar has it’s own sizing system, so to start off, you’ll want to measure your feet. Since switching to barefoot shoes, I’ve gotten in the habit of regularly measuring my feet, especially before a big shoe purchase. You can find some tips on measuring your feet for barefoot shoes here.

I ordered size 5U regular, which is listed as a Mens 5/ Women’s 6. My foot measurement is 23.3cm, and according to the size chart, the 5U fits foot lengths up to 23cm. For reference, I’m typically a size US 7.5/EU38.

I read a lot of reviews that recommended sizing down, and I’m happy I did. Softstar notes they should feel a bit snug when new as the sheepskin leather with stretch with wear. They felt comfortable from first wear, and they still feel just right a few months later.

These are available in Softstar sizes adult 5U to 15U. Softstar also offers a wide option for these slippers if you have a wider foot. The regular width accommodates around 10cm – 12cm depending on the size.

S’mores: New Vibram sole option

I love how soft and flexible the suede sole is on the Fireside slippers, but I’ve definitely wished I could keep them on for quick trips outside — taking out the trash, grabbing the mail, or morning school drop-off. Now I can with the new S’mores version! It has the same cozy barefoot feel, just with a thin Vibram sole that adds a bit more durability while staying lightweight and flexible.

Pricing

The Softstar Fireside Slippers and S’mores slippers retail for $155. Softstar does occasionally run sales, usually before fall and winter kick off (around late September) and again during Black Friday. Discounts are typically around $20–$25 off.

I know, that’s a lot for slippers (even on sale), which is why I put these firmly in the treat yourself (or someone you really like) category. But honestly, they live up to every rave review.

For more barefoot slippers, including more affordable options, check this list of the best barefoot house slippers here.

The post Softstar Fireside Slippers: the coziest sheepskin house slippers appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Do you know how many times a toddler falls when learning how to walk? I don’t have an exact statistic, but as I’m watching my 10-month-old start to transition from crawling, to pulling up, to shuffling along, I can tell you, it’s a lot! 

Learning how to walk and run is hard enough without shoes that make it more difficult. When I was a first-time parent, I bought shoes that I thought would be good for my new toddler. They seemed to fit him just right, they were “sturdy” so they’d protect his feet, and they were super cute! But that “sturdy” aspect was the problem – they were incredibly rigid and inflexible. 

As I transitioned to barefoot shoes several years ago, I realized how important a thin sole that allows flexibility and ground feel is in allowing my feet to move and function naturally. My toddler needed that same flexibility, especially as he was still learning how to walk. My first child has been wearing minimalist and barefoot shoes for several years, and I now have a baby that is just starting to wear shoes.  

After several years of testing, I’m sharing my reviews of the best barefoot shoes for toddlers. 

While more and more barefoot shoe companies are starting to make children’s shoes, it can still be hard to find options in the smallest sizes for toddlers. Most of the shoes on this list start at size US3/EU18. 

If you’re looking for larger sizes for older kids, check out these posts:

What to look for in Barefoot Shoes for Toddlers

Of course, we start off with the regular list of barefoot features, because the goal is always to mimic walking like you’re barefoot, from toddler through adult.

1 Wide Toe Box – Look for shoes that fit the natural shape of the foot. For a toddler, that’s fairly wide and chunky. The toe box should not taper, but rather have plenty of room for the toes to properly splay and wiggle. 

2 Thin, Flexible Soles – Soles should provide protection, but still allow for a sensory connection to the ground beneath and easy movement. For early walkers and toddlers, soft-soled shoes like leather moccasins can be a great option. Very thin and flexible rubber soles work well too. 

3 Zero-drop Platform – A zero-drop platform means a flat sole, just like our feet. Even some traditional toddler sneakers have a slight heel raise, which tilts them forward, putting them in an unnatural position. 

There are a few additional features I look for specifically in toddler shoes

Wide Openings – Toddlers are famous for their chunky, chubby feet! Shoes should open wide so those little feet can slide in easily without a struggle.

Easy to Secure – Once the foot is in, it needs to stay put. Adjustable closures, like a velcro strap across the top, help you get the right fit and prevent slipping.

Lightweight – Toddlers are still developing strength and coordination, so heavy shoes can make walking more tiring and awkward. Look for shoes that feel almost weightless.

Breathable & Easy to Clean – Playtime can mean sweaty feet, dirt, and spills. Materials that are breathable help keep feet dry, and easy-to-wipe or machine-washable fabrics make life easier for parents.

Durable for Crawling & Play – Toddlers often alternate between walking, crawling, and scooting. Reinforced toes and quality stitching help shoes hold up to rough use without sacrificing flexibility.

Safe, Non-Slip Outsole – A thin barefoot sole is key, but it should also have good grip for playgrounds, tile floors, and other slippery surfaces to help prevent falls.

For more information about shoe types and foot development in toddlers, see the frequently asked questions section at the end of this post. 

Barefoot Shoes for Toddlers

Magical Shoes Barefoot Toddler Shoes

Leather Uppers | 3.3 mm non-slip Rubber Sole | Sizes EU18 –23 | Starting Retail: $56 | Code KELLY for 10% off 

Magical Shoes is one of my favorites for toddler barefoot shoes. The Magical Shoes Baloo were one of my baby’s first barefoot shoes, and over 4 years later he’s still wearing their toddler and kids styles. Every pair has fit my chunky toddler’s feet perfectly, they go on easily, and—most importantly—he keeps them on without protest.

The Magical Shoes toddler lineup includes everything from summer sandals to cozy winter boots. Most styles have 3.3mm non-slip rubber soles. I’ve found that I actually like this better than the suede soles you’ll often find on toddler moccasins; the rubbers soles are almost as flexible, more durable, and don’t accumulate dirt the same way.

Most styles also use very soft leather for uppers, though some use more breathable fabrics, like the Rico shoes. For a more classic sneaker style, check out the Milo. For the cutest fisherman sandals, try the Janu.

The ZiuZiu winter boots look a little chunky, but feel almost as light and flexible as their everyday styles. And they’re fully lined with merino wool, perfect for keeping their feet extra warm.

Almost every pair of their toddler shoes has a velcro strap over the top of the foot that allows them to open wide and create a secure fit.

Sizing: Sizing starts at EU 18, so these are perfect for those toddlers with tiny feet that are just learning to walk.

Ordering and Shipping: Magical Shoes is based in Poland, but offers worldwide shipping for as little as 6 Euros. Use code KELLY for 10% off your entire purchase at Magical Shoes. If you’re based in the US, you can also order Magical Shoes from the online retailer PedTerra, which offers free shipping and free returns in the US. Use code KELLY for 10% off at PedTerra.

Wildling Toddler Barefoot Shoes

Textile uppers like cotton, linen and wool | 2.5mm rubber and cork soles | Sizes: US2.5/EU18 and up | Starting Retail: $59 | Free ship code: AWN_BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE

There’s so much to love about Wildlings: they’re among the most flexible shoes you can find, made from high-quality natural and sustainable materials (including plenty of vegan options), and they have a distinctive style all their own. Most importantly, my kids find them incredibly comfortable—my son still adores his “fox shoes” as he calls them, and we’ve all had at least one pair in our everyday rotation for the past five years.

The main drawback for some toddler styles is that many use laces, which can take a bit more time to put on and tie compared to velcro. That said, Wildling has been introducing more velcro styles in smaller sizes (we loved the Lago for spring), and regular laces can easily be swapped for elastic ones that cinch tight.

The other consideration is durability. Wildlings are designed to be lightweight and flexible, and with their unique soles, they can be a little more delicate. My kids aren’t especially hard on shoes, and ours have always lasted until they were outgrown, though I have noticed a few loose stitches on the cut-out Ninja soles. Those soles are wonderfully flexible, but they might not hold up well for toddlers who use their feet as brakes on a balance bike (though, to be fair, most shoes won’t). Some of the newer fall and winter styles, like the Arnidoise, now feature a full coverage rubber sole that wraps up around the sides and toe box, adding a more durable bumper. These are called the “resouled” styles.

Wildling’s toddler barefoot shoes, found in the Cubs section of their website, feature a 2.5 mm flexible sole and soft uppers for a true barefoot feel. Many styles are scaled-down versions of their kids’ and adults’ shoes, so the whole family can match. Most are made from sustainable vegan materials like organic cotton, linen, and hemp, with winter options that use responsibly sourced wool.

For the lightest sandal ever, check out the Feather sandals. And Wildling now has rain boots for both kids and adults! The Ranidae boots are amazingly light and flexible.

Sizing: Wildling has a printable Fit Kit to help you determine the correct size, which includes a growth zone of approximately 1/4 inch. I’ve found this accurate for both of my kids and myself. For reference, I typically wear an EU38 in Wildlings based on my 23.3cm foot measurement.

Ordering and Shipping: Wildling shoes can be purchased directly on their website (they don’t sell through third party retailers). Shipping is free to the US with orders over $200, and your first return is free. Otherwise, shipping to the US is about $10. Use code AWN_BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for free shipping on your first order. Depending on where you live, you can shop the US or International Wildling website.

Find a full brand review of Wildling here.

Softstar Moccasins and Ramblers

Leather Uppers | Suede or Vibram Pyramid Sole | Sizes: 3 and up | Starting Retail: $50 | Free Shipping 

Softstar makes buttery soft leather shoes and moccasins. The soft-soled leather moccasins start at size 3 (for ages 6 – 12 months), and go up to size 5 and are made for early walkers to be worn mostly indoors. It’s best to let babies be barefoot as often as possible, but these soft sole shoes are great for indoor places that require shoes, like daycare and preschool.

The Rambler, Laguna Sandal and Merry Janes are also great barefoot shoes for toddlers. They feature leather uppers and a zero-drop, super-flexible 3mm Vibram Pyramid sole. 

Every shoe is handcrafted in Softstar’s Oregon workshop, and many of the shoes can be customized with different colors. The customizability of these shoes continues with its sizing, where you can order narrow, regular, wide, or extra wide width shoes. Softstar’s regular width is already wider than what you might see for typical toddler shoes. The wide option is great for those toddlers with particular wide feet (what Softstar has lovingly dubbed “Potato feet.” ) If you think this may be your toddler reach out to their customer service team to confirm measurements). 

My son wore the Ramblers with Vibram bottoms until he outgrew them, and they held up well. They were so easy for him to slip on and had good grip. When the leather was starting to look worn, it quickly shined up with some polish.  

Ordering and Shipping: Shipping is free on all orders in the US. There is a minimum spend of $150 for free shipping outside the US, otherwise the cost is $12. 

Vivobarefoot Toddler shoes

Leather, wool, mesh or knit uppers | Rubber Soles | Sizes: US5/EU20 and up | Starting Retail: $62 | Code BSG20 for 20% off

Vivobarefoot iis one of the biggest names in the barefoot shoe world, and their Pluma knit is a fantastic pick for those wobbly first steps. They have a sock-like stretchy knit upper and rubber sole (I think of them as the “glow-up” version of those affordable toddler sock shoes you’ll see on Amazon). They’re easy on, easy off, but still have a secure fit. The grippy rubber sole keeps slips at bay, and clever flex-point gaps make them super bendy (kind of like Wildling’s original ninja soles).

The Pluma starts at EU18, but once your toddler hits size EU20, there are mini versions of many of Vivobarefoot’s most popular styles. The Primus is a classic, and comes in two different versions for toddlers: the Primus Sport with mesh for breathability, and the Primus knit with leather and wool uppers. Other toddler styles include Gobi sneakers with leather uppers and a large velcro strap, Gobi boots, and even their Chelsea boots.

Vivobarefoot has launched several initiatives to keep its shoes out of landfills and on feet. The Primus’ thin and flexible sole doesn’t mold around the feet, which means they are great to pass on or resell.

Use code BSG20 for 20% off at Vivobarefoot. 

Common Tread Leather Moccasins

Leather Uppers | Rubber Soles | Sizes 2 and up | Starting Retail: $35 | Code KELLY for 10% off 

Both Common Tread styles open wide for easy on and off, and fasten securely with Velcro. The leather is buttery soft yet feels built to last. They’re just about as flexible as soft-soled shoes but come with a grippy, durable rubber sole that can handle more wear and tear.

ShooShoos Soft Sole Leather Moccasins

Leather Uppers | Suede Soles | Sizes 2 and up | Starting Retail: $35 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off 

Soft Sole Leather Moccasins are an excellent option for barefoot toddler shoes because of how flexible they are. The leather uppers and suede soles provide that thin layer of protection, but the feet can bend, flex, stretch and wiggle all they want.  

ShooShoos have a range of cute designs with animal cut outs decorating the front. These styles feature elastic around the opening for a secure fit.

They also have simple solid moccasins in colors like pink, blue and black. These have a velcro strap over the top of the foot to secure instead of elastic. 

For the colder months, there are extra cozy options, like these moccasins lined with fleece, or these thicker slippers lined with fluffy wool.

Shipping starts at $5 in the US, and shipping on all orders over $50 are free. Use code KELLY10 for 10% off your purchase.

**Note that only the pre-walker and soft-soled moccasins fit the features of a barefoot shoe. The shoes for older children do not fit the criteria of a barefoot shoe.

Bisgaard Baby shoes 

Cotton or Wool uppers | Rubber sole inlay | Sizes: 3 and up | Starting Retail: $62 

Bisgaard is another brand that makes cute and function barefoot shoes for toddlers. The uppers are made from cotton or wool, and feature a large velcro strap to secure the feet. The bottom has a rubber sole inlay, making these very minimal and flexible toddler shoes. 

These baby barefoot shoes are available from online retailer PedTerra, which offers free shipping and free returns in the US. Use code KELLY for 10% off at PedTerra .

Saguaro Shoes

Synthetic uppers | Rubber Soles | Sizes: EU24 and up | Starting Retail: $40 | Code KELLY15 for 15% off

Saguaro shoes has a large selection of kid’s barefoot shoes that keeps on growing. They do start at EU24, so these might not fit your new walkers, but they’re great for the latter end of the toddler years and moving into little kids. My 3 year old has loved a lot of the cute and warm pull-on boots (like these Jumpy boots), and their mesh sneakers are an affordable and practical staple for summer ringing up at around $37 for a pair.

PaperKrane Toddler Shoes

Leather, wool, mesh Uppers | Rubber inlay soles | Sizes: 4 and up | Starting Retail: $60 | Code KELLY for 10% off.

PaperKrane is known for their fun, brightly colored designs. Many styles have sizes starting at US4. For toddler sizes US 4-7, the “Midi” soles feature a rubber inlay instead of a full rubber sole, which makes them soft and flexible (see the third photo below). Larger sizes use the full rubber sole, which is still very flexible, and a bit more durable for older kids.

PaperKrane is an Australian brand, but their barefoot toddler shoes are available from US retailer PedTerra (with free shipping and free returns in the US!). Or you can shop directly at PaperKrane. You can use code KELLY for 10% off at at PedTerra or PaperKrane.

Other minimalist kids shoes to check out (in Alpha order)

The list above represents my top recommendations for barefoot and minimalist kids shoes, but I wanted to include a more comprehensive list of all of the healthy shoes for kids.

** One of my favorite places to shop for barefoot kids shoes is the online retailer PedTerra. They carry a lot of small, amazing European brands, and offer free shipping and free returns in the US. You can use code KELLY for 10% off your purchase at PedTerra.

Know of any other great healthy, barefoot and minimalist shoe brands for children? Let me know in the comments below!

Anatomic Shoes – Anatomic both offers super affordable barefoot shoes for kids! These linked ones are $18! Use Code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra.

Bobux – Soft sole moccasins through big kid shoes. Bobux are more of a minimal shoes vs a barefoot shoe, meaning their wider and more flexible than most traditional shoes, but not as much as most of the barefoot shoes on this list.

Baby Bare – Make sneakers, sandals, and boots with high quality Italian leather. Despite baby in the name, these wide, minimalist shoes go up to US Big Kid 2/EU33. Use code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra.

Bar3foot – Cotton canvas barefoot sneakers for kids. Use code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra. These are a good fit for wide, high volume feet.

Bisgaard – Cute and function barefoot shoes for kids. The uppers are made from cotton or wool, and feature a large velcro strap to secure the feet. The bottom has a rubber sole inlay, making these very minimal and flexible toddler shoes. These kids barefoot shoes are available from online retailer PedTerra, which offers free shipping and free returns in the US. Use code KELLY for 10% off at PedTerra.

Cat & Jack Toddler Parker Sneakers  – This Target brand makes a pair of canvas velcro sneakers called they Toddler Parker Sneakers. These are a compromise shoe as they’re reasonably wide, but do taper in the toe box. The insole has some extra padding in the heel, so remove to make it zero-drop. They’re incredibly affordable at $10 for a pair.

Etsy – I’ve found several Etsy retailers that hand make minimalist leather shoes for kids. While some only go to toddler sizes, others go up to bigger kids sizes (Ebooba’s largest is for 7-8 year olds). When you’re searching Etsy, look for shoes that are thin, flat and flexible. Here are a few Etsy Shops to check out:

• Ebooba 
• DancewearByJay
• Soft Walker Shoes
• Starry Knight

Feelmax – Finnish brand with kid’s shoes start at size EU24. Shoes are reasonably priced (under €40), but shipping to US is around €30.

Foot Buddy Kid’s Shoes – Children’s minimalist shoes in Toddler sizes 8-12. Prioritize durability with large toe bumper and thicker soles. They are zero drop with a  wide toe box. Retail is $39. Use coupon code 12KELLY12 for 12% off on Amazon.

Freet – British brand with wide shoes starting at size EU 30. Use Code KELLY for 10% off.

Froddo – Shoes start at baby US 1 and go up through big kids. Full line of leather sneakers, sandals and boots. Use code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra.

Jack & Lily – affordable baby, toddler and kids barefoot shoes.

PaperKrane  –  Kids barefoot shoe company from Australia known for their fun, brightly colored designs. Code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra.

Robeez –Soft-sole leather moccasins for toddlers. 

Skinners – Skinners are more like durable socks than shoes, but they are a great option for a kid that needs no fuss footwear. They’re machine washable and have a 500 mile life span.

Ten Little Sneakers – Affordable barefoot shoes for kids that have simple, classic styling. These are more of a minimalist shoe with somewhat thicker, stiffer soles. They have vegan leather and canvas sneakers as well as sandals and rain boots.

Tikki Shoes – Leather and vegan leather wide kids shoes and sandals made in Romania.

Tough Little Piggies – Flexible moccasins with reinforced toe boxes for durability.

Zeazoo – Girl’s barefoot shoes, sandals and boots in bright, bold colors. Use code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra.

Barefoot is Best

Going barefoot let’s feet be feet! 

After talking about all of these shoes, it is important to note that barefoot is best, so keep the shoes off as often as you can! Without anything getting in their way, the feet’s muscles and ligaments can move and develop naturally. The muscles will strengthen as they’re used. If you have strong feet, you don’t need shoes with arch support or ankle support or any other kind of support; your feet will be able to support themselves, just like they were made to do.  

Walking barefoot also means a toddler can receive sensory input from their surroundings. A physical connection to the ground helps improves a child’s awareness, balance and sensory-motor development. 

While barefoot is best as often as possible, a toddler needs shoes to protect their feet in all the new places they’ll be walking through. Shoes that allow a toddler’s feet to function as close to barefoot as possible is the next best thing when they can’t be barefoot. Starting a toddler off with healthy footwear is one of the best things you can do for their physical development. 

If your baby isn’t quite to the walking stage yet, you may be deciding on which baby carrier to buy–check out this review of Tula vs Ergobaby.

Frequently Asked Questions about Toddler Shoes

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