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

About the Brand 

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

Are Ten Little Shoes barefoot shoes? 

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

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

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

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

Materials & Design 

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

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

Different size shoes for different size feet 

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

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

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

Affordable barefoot option

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

Ten Little Fit and Sizing 

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

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

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

Ordering and Returns 

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

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

Ten Little Shoes Review 

Everyday Original Minimalist Sneaker 

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

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

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

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

Splash Sandals

US Sizes Toddler 4 – 13 | Retail: $39

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

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

Everyday Sandals 

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

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

Chelsea Boots 

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

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

Rain Boots 

$46 | Toddler Sizes 6 – 13 | Rubber

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

Snow Boots 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Accessories and more at Ten Little

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

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

I was first introduced to Reima a few years ago when I was looking for quality wool layers and outerwear for my kids. Reima is a Finnish brand that makes sustainably designed apparel for kids ages 0-12. Reima clothing and gear is made to help kids enjoy outdoor play in any weather. From rain paints to snowsuits to swimsuits, Reima will have your kid covered for all four seasons.  

I quickly became a fan of the brand for their high-quality materials, bright, bold colors, and how their clothes made it easier to get out and explore with my kids.  

Since one of Reima’s goals is to help kids “discover the joy of movement,” it was exciting to see them apply this principle to their shoe designs. It’s a lot easier to experience the joy of moving your feet and body with foot-shaped, barefoot shoes.  

Use code BAREFOOT 20 for 20% off Reima barefoot shoes and clothes.

Note: This post contains affiliate links and is sponsored by Reima. I do my best to provide an informative, honest review to help you make a purchasing decision. My goal is to help you find the best shoe for you. Using affiliate programs and collaborating with brands is a way I can continue creating this content. For more information, see my Sponsored Content policy. Thank you for your support!

What are barefoot shoes? 

If you’re new here, I like to do a quick recap of what barefoot shoes are (sometimes called minimalist shoes) Here are the main qualities I’m looking for in a barefoot shoe:  

• Wide, foot-shaped toe box — A shoe shouldn’t force a foot into an unnatural shape by squishing the toes together. The toe box should not taper! Feet are widest at the toes, and shoes should reflect that. A kid’s barefoot shoe should allow for plenty of room for those toes to wiggle.  
• Flat aka zero-drop — There shouldn’t be any heel-to-toe drop. A flat shoe allows a child to stand in a natural, neutral position.  
• Thin — This helps keep shoes light and flexible and allows a child to walk naturally 
• Flexible — Again, the focus here is allowing the foot to function naturally, so a shoe should allow the foot to easily bend. 

Ankka Barefoot Rain Boots

US Sizes Toddler 6 – Kids 7.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $55 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

Reima has been steadily releasing new styles for their barefoot line, and the Ankka rain boots are just the newest addition. The soles are zero-drop (so many rain boots have such a chunky heel!) with enough grip for wet pavement. And of course, the toe box is widened to a natural foot shape. They’re easy to pull on and have a soft cotton lining. They pair perfectly with Reima’s rain pants and jackets, all of which is totally waterproof and PFAS-free. We love that they’re lightweight and flexible, which is ideal for all-day play.

The Ankka runs true to size with enough space for a medium-thick sock. If your child is between sizes or want extra growth room, I recommend sizing up. Like most of Reima’s shoes, there is a removable insole with their Happy Fit markings, so you can easily see if you got the right size.

Astelu Kid’s Barefoot Sneakers 

US Sizes Toddler 6 – Kids 7.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $60 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

You can tell people are excited about the Reima kid’s barefoot shoes when it sells out almost immediately. By the time I was able to test the shoes (or have my kids test them) and get this review up, many of the Astelu sneaker sold out. Fortunately, they are restocking for 2024 spring and summer. Plus, they have new colors! These barefoot sneakers are available on both the US Reima website and the International Reima website. The colors and the size offerings vary between the websites. 

The Astelu kids sneakers have a knit, breathable upper, making them a great option for warmer weather. Let’s get into the review! 

 What I Loved:  

•  Sole is thin, flexible and zero-drop 
• They look great! Older kids can start getting pickier about how their shoes look, and these have a simple, yet on-trend design.  
• Elastic laces— look of laces and can be somewhat adjusted based on shortening or lengthening the laces and retying the ends, but still very easy to get on and off. Plus, you don’t have to worry about untied shoes. 
• They go up to size EU40 (about a US women’s 8/9, so these can work both for older kid’s and some adults. I’m tempted to get a pair!

 
Room For Improvement:  

• Lower volume over the toes. Ideally, I’d love to see more space here 
• These would best for narrow to medium width feet. I’d love to see a wider option from Reima too. 
• The knit upper is great for breathability, but I could see them getting snagged or ripped on something like tree branches. We’ve used them mostly for school, the playground, and walking around town.  In 2024 they added a reinforcement layer over the toe area, so this really helps with durability!

 Construction and Materials  

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm  
• Sole Material: Rubber 
• Removeable insole? Yes 
• Laces or Velcro? Elastic Laces 
• Upper material: Elastic knitted up with water repellant finish  
• Reinforced toe cap (new for 2024)
• Colors: Pink, Navy Blue, Greyish Green, Black, Dark Mango 
• Made in: China 

Fit & Sizing

Overall, these seem to be a good fit for narrow to medium width feet. They are also somewhat low volume over the toes.  

The size chart for this style provides insole length; we found it to fit the shorter end of the length range provided. For example the insole on the US13/13.5 (EU31) we tested was about 19cm. 

These are available in toddler to big kid sizes. The sizing availability differed from the US and EU website, but this is what is currently listed: 

• US Sizes Toddler 11 – Kids 6.5 
• EU Sizes 22 – 40 

Rantaan Kid’s Barefoot Sandals  

US Sizes Toddler 11 – Kids 6.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $40 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

What I Loved:  

• Sole is thin, flexible and zero-drop 
• Polka dot mesh is breathable and dries quickly, which is great for summer 
• Colors are fun and bright 
• Easy off with the Velcro—my two year old can take these off on his own 
• More affordable option. I know affordability is all relative and very subjective, but these represent a more affordable price point compared to most other barefoot shoes.  

Room for improvement: 

• Pretty easy to put on, except for the fact that sometimes the pinky toe gets caught in the cut out when putting them on. Not a deal breaker, I just need to be aware when putting them on 
• Similar to the sneakers, these are lower volume over the toes. I’d love to see something a little wider and higher volume, especially in the toddler sizes as they tend to have thicker feet. 
• The removeable insole seems thicker than necessary. I’d love to see a thinner insole on this (it’s thicker than the insole for the sneaker) 

 Construction and Materials  

• Heel-to-Toe Drop: 0mm  
• Sole Material: Rubber 
• Removeable insole? Yes 
• Laces or Velcro? Velcro 
• Upper material: Mesh and fabric with a foam-like polka dot material sandwiched in between 
• Colors: Navy Blue, Misty Red, Red Orange,  
• Made in: China 

Fit & Sizing

Like I mentioned for the sneakers, these too are lower volume over the toes. I’d love to see something a little wider and higher volume, especially in the toddler sizes as they tend to have thicker feet. 

Both toddler and big kids sizing is available in Reima’a barefoot sandals. The sizing availability differed from the US and EU website, but this is what is currently listed: 

• US Sizes Toddler 11 – Kids 6.5 
• EU Sizes 22 – 40 

I did find these to run a few centimeters longer than what is listed on the size chart. For example, per the size chart, a US6/6.5 should have an insole length of 12.7 – 13.2cm. The actual insole of my sandal was about 13.6cm.

Valoa Barefoot Sandals  

US Sizes Toddler 11 – Kids 6.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $75 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

The Reima Valoa sandals are a fantastic summer option for active kids. Made with a lightweight mesh upper, they’re ultra breathable—perfect for keeping feet cool on hot days. The closed-toe design provides excellent toe protection, which is a huge plus for outdoor play or even casual hikes.

These sandals also offer a secure, adjustable fit thanks to the easy-to-use toggle closure, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping off mid-adventure. Like Reima’s other barefoot shoes, the Valoa sandals have a wide toe box, zero drop sole, and flexible construction that supports natural foot development. Sizing and fit are consistent with the rest of Reima’s barefoot line, so if you’ve tried their shoes before, you’ll know what to expect.

Tallustelu Kid’s Waterproof Barefoot Sneakers

US Sizes Toddler 6 – Kids 6.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $75 – $80 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

The Tallustelu sneaker is another great addition to Reima’s barefoot shoes. These barefoot waterproof sneakers have been perfect for exploring in cold, wet weather.

These are similar in fit and sizing to the Astelu sneakers, but have more overlays to improve durability. They’re obviously not as breathable, so are better suited to cooler weather. The elastic laces are easy to tighten, so a child can get a secure fit.

These now also coming smaller toddler sizes called the Tepastelu, and feature a large velcro strap to secure.

Loikkii and Hyppii Waterproof Boots

US Sizes Toddler 6 – Kids 6.5 | EU Sizes 22 – 40 | Price: $90 – $100 | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

For winter, Reima has the Hyppii waterproof boots for toddlers, and the Loikkii waterproof boots for bigger kids. They’re a similar design, but the Hyppii feature a large velcro strap that opens wide, making them very easy for my three-year-old to get on all by himself. The Loikkii for bigger kids use elastic laces, which can be easily tightened down.

 What I Loved:  

•  Sole is thin, flexible and zero-drop 
• Velcro and Elastic laces— so easy for kids to put on by themselves! 
• More volume than some of the other Reima barefoot shoes, so they easily fit my toddlers chunkier feet
• Kept my kid’s feet warm and dry in rain and light snow

 
Room For Improvement:  

• While these did well in wet conditions, the shorter shaft means water can drop in from the top if kids like to splash, or run too deep in to the water
• Narrower than some other barefoot shoe options–so work best for those with narrow feet

Durability

Our Reima clothes have been high quality and hard wearing, and so far, these shoes have proved to be the same. Based on the mesh and the knit, they could be more prone to holes or snagging. The sandal also has toe bumper, which should help with the durability on the mesh.  The 2024 version of the Astelu sneakers now has a reinforced toe area as well.

We’ve used them for school, around town, down by the creek, to the beach, to the lake, etc. Also, if your child tends to be pretty tough on shoes, then these may not be the best option for them. Overall, I think it’s a good balance of affordability and breathability when looking for a kid’s barefoot shoe for summer.

Conclusion

Reima’s barefoot shoes for kids offer a fantastic balance between durability, flexibility, and a foot-friendly design. With their wide toe box, zero-drop sole, and lightweight construction, they support natural movement while standing up to the demands of active play. Many of the models are best suited to those with narrower or lower volume feet.

If you’re searching for kids’ barefoot shoes that can handle everything from playground adventures to outdoor excursions, Reima’s lineup is definitely worth considering!

Use code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off the Reima website.

The post  Reima Kid’s Barefoot Shoes Review   appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

If you’re just starting your journey of foot health and barefoot shoes, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start and which shoes to buy. And if you’ve been holding out because you don’t want to spend a fortune on expensive shoes and high shipping/return costs, then the affordable WHITIN Shoes on Amazon may be a good place to start.  

I’ve recommended WHITIN shoes to several of my own family members as beginner barefoot shoes to great success. In addition, dozens of readers here and on Instagram have followed up to let me know how much they like them.  

The whole family can get in on WHITIN barefoot shoes as they now have styles for both adults and kids!

I included WHITIN Shoes on my list of the Best Barefoot Shoes for Beginners, where you can check out more options if you’re new to barefoot shoes.

In this WHITIN Shoes review, I’m going to review six of their wide barefoot casual shoe models so you have everything you need to know to pick the right pair and size for you. 

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.

Definition of barefoot shoes 

If you’re on this blog, you may already be familiar with barefoot and minimalist shoes. But, if you happened to stumble over and have no idea what I’m talking about, here’s a quick definition. Barefoot shoes (sometimes called minimalist shoes) are meant to be as minimal as possible so as not to interfere with your natural walking or running gait. This usually means a wide, anatomically shaped toe box that don’t squish your toes, and a thin, flat and flexible sole. The goal is to have stronger feet, not supportive shoes. You can find more information and FAQs about barefoot shoes here. 

Table of Contents 

1. Why are WHITIN shoes a good shoe for someone new to barefoot shoes? 
2. If you’re already used to barefoot shoes… 
3. How is the quality for the price? 
4. Ease of ordering and returning 
5. Fit & Sizing
6. WHITIN Shoes Reviews – 8 styles
   • Casual Fashion Sneaker
   • Casual Athletic Sneaker
   • Canvas Casual Shoe
   • Slip-on Loafers
   • Minimalist Trailer Runner
   • Running Shoe
   • Chelsea Boots
   • Kid’s Sneaker
7. FAQs about WHITIN Shoes

Why are WHITIN shoes a good shoe for someone new to barefoot shoes? 

There are several features that make WHITIN shoes a good option for someone transitioning to barefoot shoes. 

1 Wide Toe Box  

A wide, foot-shaped toe box is the most important feature I’m looking for in a healthier shoe. It’s not difficult for your foot to transition to a wider toe box (trust me, your toes aren’t going to be missing those tight toe boxes), and you’re preventing further damage and issues. WHITIN does sell shoes in a range of widths, so make sure you’re opting for their Wide Barefoot shoes, which are anatomically shaped shoes. 

I compared my WHITINs to a range of other barefoot shoes, and I was impressed with the overall toe space. I found them wider than brands like Wildling, Mukishoes and Vivobarefoot. They were sligbeghtly wider in the toes than the Altra Lone Peaks, and and slightly less space than the Lems Primal 2s and BeLenka Eazy slip-ons. It can be hard to get an exact measurement for width as the upper materials come into play, and the widths of a brand can vary from style to style, but this is to give you a general guide as to how wide they are.  

2 Moderate Cushion 

Lack of cushion can be one of the hardest parts for people transitioning to a thin barefoot shoe. Most of us have spent decades in cushioned shoes and removing that cushion can be uncomfortable.  

As beginner minimalist shoes, WHITINS have a moderately cushioned sole, so most people I’ve talked to don’t notice a huge adjustment.  

The sole is still flexible for the amount of cushion. These shoes do have a moderate toe spring to accommodate for the greater amount of cushion. A toe spring is the upward curve at the toes, and it is usually there to help combat the thickness and stiffness in a sole and make it easier to walk. You can read more about toe springs here.  

3 Zero Drop, Flexible and Flat soles (after removing the insole) 

These shoes are listed as zero drop, but they come with a removable insole that may have a slight heel drop and some arch support. For more of a barefoot experience, you can simply remove the insole for more space, or replace it with a flat insole (see more insole options here). The soles are flexible, which means it’s not going to impact our natural walking gait like a super stiff shoe.

If you’re already used to barefoot shoes…. 

Some of these things that make Whitin Shoes a safe choice for a barefoot shoe beginner is also what make them less than ideal for later in your barefoot shoe journey. Everyone has different goals with barefoot/minimalist shoes, and you may be happy with the WHITIN shoes for the long-term, and that is totally okay! But, if you want to continue to move towards more natural footwear that has less built-in support or walking assistance (like a toe spring), then you may eventually want to move on from WHITIN Shoes and try something with a thinner, flatter sole.  

How is the quality for the price? 

I think WHITIN shoes represent great value. At $40, they are one of the most affordable barefoot shoes out there. I was skeptical about their quality and durability, but by most accounts they hold up well. My mom has worn her WHITIN Shoes almost daily for 6 months (shown below), and as a travel guide, she walks a lot of miles on concrete. Hers still look like they’re in great shape, especially for such a cheap barefoot shoe. I’ve heard similar thoughts on durability from a number of people I’ve talked to about them.

That said, when you compare the shoes to other barefoot shoes with a higher price, the materials and build don’t feel as high quality. On some of the models I could see the glue coming up around the top of the outsole. I haven’t had any issues with separation, I think it’s more of an indicator of quality of construction.  

Ease of ordering and returning 

If there’s one thing anyone in the barefoot shoe community can agree upon, it’s the fact that figuring out sizing, and ordering and returning shoes is usually difficult and expensive. WHITIN shoes offers free shipping and free returns on Amazon.

Quick Tip for Ordering Whitin Shoes 

WHITIN makes both barefoot and traditional shoes. It has the same style of shoe in both a barefoot and a traditional version, and sometimes it still lists terms like “wide” and “wide toe box” in the narrower traditional version (super confusing, I know).  

The best way to differentiate is to make sure that the shoes have “wide” in the sizing, as shown in the screenshot below (i.e., the size is “8 wide” NOT just 8). 

All of the casual barefoot WHITIN shoes with an anatomical toe box are listed on the “Wide Barefoot” Tab on WHITIN’s Amazon storefront. The Trail Runners can be found on the “Barefoot” tab. 

Fit & Sizing 

The fit and sizing for WHITIN Shoes varies slightly from style to style, but generally I’ve found that they fit true to size and I’m the same size in all styles. In the range of barefoot shoes, these have a wider fit like I noted above in the toe box discussion. Most of their shoes fit medium to high volume feet, especially when taking out the removable insole. 

WHITIN makes adult barefoot shoes for beginners in sizes EU 36 through EU 48. This equates to women’s sizes in US 6 wide to 11.5 wide. For men’s, the sizes range from US7 to US 13. While the sizes listed on Amazon are US sizing, the actual shoes are marked with EU sizing. The size charts show the US and EU sizing. 

Most of the Amazon pages have a link to a size chart for that specific style, so I would use the specific chart for reference when comparing your measurements. I always recommend measuring your feet before any purchase and comparing it to the size chart. I typically look for an insole measurement that is 1.2cm longer than my longest foot measurement. See a guide on measuring your feet for barefoot shoes here. 

It’s mostly whole sizes, though they do have size 7.5 and 11.5 for women. I’m typically a US7.5/UE38, and the women’s 7.5 fit me well with my 23.3cm foot measurement. My husband is usually a size US10.5/EU44, and the US11 in the WHITIN shoes fit him best. Generally, most feedback I’ve received is that these fit true to size when referring to the size chart.  

WHITIN Shoe Reviews 

1 WHITIN Barefoot Casual Fashion Sneaker  

WHITIN Shoes has four different casual barefoot shoes styles. First up is the casual fashion sneaker, which is made from a knitted upper which is very soft and flexible.  It also has a suede strip along the side and reinforced eyelets for the laces. 

The back half of the shoe is lined with a soft, smooth fabric for comfort, and there’s some padding built-in around the back of the ankle.  

This casual shoe is one of their roomiest options – it can accommodate wider and higher volume feet, especially if worn without the insole. I’m wearing a size US 7.5 wide based on my 23.3cm foot measurement.

They come in a range of color options, mostly black, white, grey and beige, but also have a nice light blue and bold red if you’re looking for some color variety in your minimalist shoes. 

2 WHITIN Barefoot Athletic Sneaker 

These shoes have more of an athletic/sporty look, with a sock-like fit and a knitted upper. The knitted mesh is stretchy enough so that these are easy to slip on and off. The side piece on the shoe is a softer plastic, and you can use the laces to tighten down the shoe over the knit fabric. 

These sneakers feel like they have slightly less width and volume compared to the casual style above.  Similar to the casual style, these also feature built in padding around the back of the ankle.  

3 WHITIN Canvas Casual Barefoot Sneakers 

The Canvas Barefoot Sneakers by WHITIN look similar to the Vans Era Shoe, but with a much wider toe box and thinner sole. Plus, they are way lighter. I forget how much some of these conventional shoes can weigh, but when comparing them, the Vans felt like a heavy rubber brick.

Like the Vans, the WHITIN canvas sneakers have a padded collar around the ankle and metal eyelets around the laces. These come a few neutral colors, including black, white, brown and grey.

4 WHITIN Barefoot Slip-on Loafers 

Many people turn to HEYDUDE shoes for a more comfortable option, but the toe box is still too narrow to allow for a healthy, natural toe alignment. The WHITIN Boat shoes have a similar vibe, but are designed with a wider toe box and zero-drop sole. 

The uppers on these minimalist slip-ons are made from a woven jacquard fabric that has some texture.  

See a quick video comparison of the HEYDUDE shoes to the Lems Chillum – the WHITIN boat shoes are more in line with the Chillums as far as toe box width. 

5 WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner 

While all of the casual shoes listed above are built on the same outsole, the WHITIN minimalist trail runner has a more rugged outsole with a deeper and more varied tread. The lugs aren’t super deep, so they’re probably not going to cut it for tough, rocky trails, but these are a good option for easier runs. The outsole extends over the front and is somewhat reminiscent of Vibram Five Fingers as it marks the individual toes.  

The WHITIN trail runners are similar to a few other beginner minimalist trail running shoes, like these Saguaro Shoes and the Merrell Trail Gloves. 

The uppers are a stretchy mesh with an elastic lacing system and velcro strap. They are  lower volume compared to the casual models.  

Note that these are NOT included on the wide barefoot tab on Amazon, but just the barefoot tab. Other shoes in this barefoot tab have a much narrower toe box.

6 WHITIN Zero-Drop Running Shoe

This running shoe has more cushion than all of the other WHITIN styles, but they’re still zero-drop with a wide toe box. The additional cushion includes an EVA midsole, and the uppers are a breathable synthetic mesh. Because of the additional cushion, they have a more pronounced toe spring. This minimalist running shoe is comparable to brands like Altra Running and Topo Athletic.

Currently, these shoes only seem to be available in men’s, with sizing starting at US Men’s 8. They come in 5 different colors.

7 WHITIN Chelsea Boots

I included these on the list as so many have asked about them. These women’s Chelsea boots have a decent toe box and are better than most conventional boots. And at $46, they’re incredibly affordable. But if you’re used to barefoot shoes, you’ll probably find the stiffness of the sole and toe spring disappointing and uncomfortable. I’d recommend opting for a different barefoot Chelsea boot if you can.

8 WHITIN Kid’s Barefoot Shoes

Now you can get a pair of WHITIN’s for your kid’s too. And for $37! These feature the same sole design as many of the adult shoes, and use a breathable mesh upper plus a protective bumper around the toe for added durability. So far, they’re offered in sizes Little Kid US 11 – Big Kid US 3.

FAQ about WHITIN Shoes 

Are WHITIN shoes durable? 

Yes, WHITIN shoes are reasonably durable, especially for their affordable price point. As I mentioned in the body of the article, one person that helped me review the shoes has been wearing them almost daily for 6 months and logged a lot of miles walking outdoors due to their occupation as a tour guide.  

Do WHITIN shoes have arch support? 

WHITIN states that the soles are flat, or zero-drop. However, the insoles do have some arch support. Remove the insoles for more of a barefoot fit with a flatter sole.

Are WHITIN shoes good for bunions? 

Due to the wide toe box and soft upper materials, WHITIN shoes are a great option for those with bunions. This wider toe box can comfortably accommodate bunions, and it also doesn’t contribute to the problem as your toes can stay in proper alignment.  

Someone that helped me review the WHITIN shoes for this article had a prominent bunion on one foot. They found the WHITIN shoes the most comfortable option compared to other barefoot shoes they tried due to the width of the toe box and softness of the uppers. 

Can you wash WHITIN Shoes?

A number of people have commented to say they’ve washed their WHITIN Shoes in the washing machine (cold water, gentle cycle) with success, and then let them air dry. I typically say wash your shoes at your own risk as a washing machine can be harder on shoes, and sometimes there are issues with bleeding colors or glue.

Where can I find the WHITIN Shoes size chart? 

Each separate style and listing on Amazon has a link to the related size chart. The link is included right before the bullet point descriptions of the shoe.  

Who manufactures WHITIN? 

The WHITIN Shoes appear to be a private label that manufactures their shoes in China and distributes them directly through Amazon. The individual/entity that owns the trademark to WHITIN owns the trademark to several popular Amazon brands, including Joomra. WHITIN is not listed among Amazon’s private label brands and does not appear to be owned by Amazon. 

Where are WHITIN shoes made? 

Per the markings on the shoes, WHITIN Shoes are made in China.  

Hobibear vs WHITIN

Quite a few of you have been targeted by the Hobibear ads over the last few months, so you want to know the difference between Hobibear vs WHITIN. This looks like the case of two companies using the same supplier/manufacturer, and just changing small details on the shoes (like color, branded tag, etc). This is pretty common among many industries–I’ve seen a few recent TikTok videos showing the same piece of furniture sold at three different stores, or the same dress sold by 5 different retailers, all with different price points.

Because of that, you can use this post would basically be the same for a Hobibear shoes review, though it looks like they don’t offer quite as many styles yet. The main style is the barefoot casual fashion sneaker, the first reviewed style on this post. They also have a lot of non-barefoot shoes. Find the Hobibear barefoot shoes on Amazon here.

Whitin and Hobibear have a very similar price point (around $40), so it mostly comes down to which of the small details or colors you prefer. You can purchase both Hobibear and Whitin from Amazon, so that makes both shipping and returns free and easy.

The post WHITIN Shoes Review – Affordable Beginner Barefoot Shoes on Amazon  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

Barefoot shoes are great for your feet, but as anyone who’s done some shopping for barefoot shoes knows, they’re tough on your bank account. It’s difficult to find affordable barefoot shoes. And this problems compounds as many of us are not just buying one pair of shoes. If you’re like me, you probably got hooked once you tried your first pair, and realized you now wanted to replace all the shoes in your closet.  

After trying to find affordable barefoot shoes for me, my family, and all of you, I’ve got a short list, plus a few different ways to find better deals. 

This post isn’t just a list of cheap barefoot shoes, because to be honest, there aren’t that many. I’ve listed the few affordable barefoot shoe brands, but also provided a guide on where to find sales throughout the year, when most sales take place, and where to buy gently used barefoot shoes.  

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

Shopping for kids? Check this post on affordable barefoot shoes for kids 

Why are barefoot shoes so expensive?

There are a number of reasons barefoot shoes carry a high price tag. One of the biggest contributors to the higher prices is usually volume. Most barefoot shoe brands are newer, smaller companies that are nowhere near the level of production to reach economies of scale. Especially compared to much larger, more established traditional shoe companies. There is also the fact that many barefoot brands use high-quality, sustainable materials. Many European brands also manufacture in places like Portugal, which has a higher wage rate than common manufacturing locations like China and Vietnam. 

The barefoot or minimalist shoe market is still fairly niche. It’s grown in leaps and bounds over the last few years, but it’s still nowhere near the size of the traditional shoe market. Just to give you a little bit of context, Nike sells over 780 million pairs a year. And to be fair, a lot of Nike’s shoes are still $100+, manufactured in Vietnam and Indonesia, and made from synthetic materials. For a small barefoot shoe brand that’s paying more for materials and labor and often times charging similar prices to these footwear behemoths, I doubt they’re really killing it on the margins.   

Affordable Barefoot Shoes Under $50 

Saguaro Shoes  — $35 to $50

Synthetic Uppers | Sizes US Toddler 7.5 – US Men’s 14 | Code KELLY15 for 15% off on Saguaro.com | Free shipping on orders over $18

Shop on Saguaro

Saguaro has an extensive range of barefoot shoes, and many of them hover around the $50 mark with 15% off using the discount code KELLY15. Saguaro is one of the brands with the cheapest barefoot shoes for both kids and adults. Despite their lower cost, the quality of many are very good.

Initially, their styles were limited to mesh trail runners/water shoes like the blue shoes shown below. These retail for around $35. My son has really loved these, and they’ve worked great for running, sports, and warm weather. The soles are foot shaped, flexible and grippy and the uppers are breathable mesh.

Saguaro now offers casual styles, including trendy sneakers and boots. They currently have one of the largest collections of barefoot shoes. The casual knit and mesh barefoot sneakers are very affordable (most around $50), look great, and have held up well for us.

You can see the full line on Saguaro.com, where you can use code KELLY15 for 15% off. A smaller selection of Saguaro’s shoes are available on Amazon, but this is limited to their water shoes.

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).

WHITIN Shoes  — $40 

Synthetic Mesh and Knit or Cotton Canvas Uppers | Sizes Women’s US 6 – Men’s US 13 |Little Kid’s 10.5 – Big Kid’s 5 | Free Shipping and Returns on Amazon

Amazon has several different cheap barefoot shoe brands. I think Whitin shoes are some of the best in terms of looks, fit and durability for the price. The toe box on WHITIN Wide Barefoot Shoes are pretty roomy and the sole is flexible. They have growing number of styles, including sporty tennis shoes, Vans-inspired casual shoe option, and even a HEYDUDE type slip-on.

Most WHITIN Barefoot shoes are $40. They’re a really affordable barefoot shoe option that look good and are reasonably durable. Most people are concerned about quality given the price compared to other barefoot shoe brands. While I don’t find the quality to be on par with some of the other barefoot shoe brands, those are often 3x the price, so I think that’s fair. That said, I’ve still found them to hold up well to regular use. Several of my family members have been wearing them for several years, and are happy with the fit, comfort and durability.

They also have kid’s barefoot shoes for $37.

When you’re shopping Whitin shoes, make sure you’re on their “Wide Barefoot” tab. They also have “Barefoot” tab, but most of these shoes look like conventionally narrow shoes. The only style I would consider on the regular “barefoot” tab is their trail runner. 

Since these are sold on Amazon, it is free shipping and free returns in the US.

See more styles and info on fit, sizing and durability in this WHITIN Shoes brand review.

Joomra Shoes — $40 

Synthetic uppers | Sizes Women’s US 5.5 – Men’s US 12.5

Joomra makes a pair of wide toe box sneakers very similar to the Whitin ones. They’re usually around $40, but I’ve recently seen them discounted to $20. 

Splay Shoes Freestyle, Explore and REV — $40 to $68 

Cotton canvas uppers | US Child 8 – US Men’s 13 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off

Splay Shoes is a US-based barefoot shoe brand that has several styles including casual lace-up shoes, slip-ons, and a Velcro option for kids. The Freestyle is their affordable lace-up sneaker made with a cotton canvas upper. Note that these did receive an update in 2024, and I find the toe box to have slightly more of a taper than before.

The Explore is similar in styling, but with Velcro and available in toddler and kids sizes. Depending on the size and style, Splay shoes run from $40 to $67 using the discount code KELLY10 for 10% off. Splay shoes tend to fit lower volume feet best.

See a full review on Splay Shoes here. 

Affordable Barefoot Shoes Under $80

Anatomic Shoes — $53  

Cotton canvas uppers | US Child 8 – US Men’s 13 | Code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra

Anatomic are affordable foot-shaped shoes with a wide toe box. They have a thicker sole than the most barefoot shoes, but they’re still flat and pretty flexible. Styles include casual lace ups, slip-ons, and high tops. They’re availabe in the US from the online minimalist shoe retailer PedTerra, which offers free shipping and free returns. Take 10% off your order with code KELLY. 

Xero Shoes Kona and Aptos — $65 

Cotton canvas uppers | US Women’s 5 – US Men’s 15

Xero Shoes is one of the most popular US-based barefoot shoe brands. Two of their cheapest barefoot shoe option a slip-on canvas shoes: the Aptos and the Kona. The Aptos is more like a Vans slip-on, while the Kona feels more inspired by Hey Dudes. Xero Shoes tend to fit those with narrow, lower volume feet best. As someone with a higher instep, I often remove the insole for a more comfortable fit (though many are still too narrow for me).

LONO Flow — $76

Vegan mesh uppers | EU36 – EU48 | Code KELLY for 5% off

Lono’s goal is to make a pair of reasonably priced, innovatively designed, and sustainably made barefoot shoes. The breathable mesh uppers and athletic design make these a more budget-friendly alternative to shoes like the Vivobarefoot Primus or the Xero Shoes Prio.

Unshoes Terra Vida slip ons — $74 

Hemp canvas uppers | US Women’s 5 – US Men’s 13 | Code nomanbefore10 for 10% off

Unshoes has an affordable barefoot slip-on shoe made from hemp canvas. Use code nomanbefore10 to get an extra 10% off at Unshoes. 

Origo Shoes Cotton Canvas Sneakers — $79 

Cotton canvas uppers | US Women’s 5 – US Men’s 13 | Code KELLY for 10% off

Origo focuses on using sustainable materials in its barefoot shoes, including in the cotton canvas sneakers that cost $79 using the coupon code KELLY. They have men’s, women’s and kid’s sizes. The canvas kid’s barefoot shoes are $54 with the discount code. If they are having a sale, often times this code will stack, so you can get 20% or 30% off the retail price. 

Origo’s everyday sneakers have a 6mm stack height, plus they come with an extra insole. Sometimes this little extra cushion can be helpful for those new to barefoot shoes. Overall, these shoes fit narrow to medium wide feet best.  

Lems Shoes— $70 to $85 during sales

Canvas and Mesh uppers | US Women’s 4.5 – US Men’s 14

Lems are a bit pricier, but they do tend to have really good sales around the holidays and I think they’re a great brand for those new to barefoot shoes. Lems have a wide toe box , but slightly thicker soles, which can be easier for those that are adjusting to the thinner soles of barefoot shoes.

I’ve seen Lems go on sale for up to 25% off for Black Friday, and they’ve had other 20% off sales throughout the year, like President’s Day in February, Memorial Day in May or Labor Day in September. At 25% off, some of the most popular styles like the Primal 2s, Primal Zen, Drifter and Chillums are $70 to $85. Just a note, if a style is brand new, it likely won’t be included in the sale. So, if it’s a new shoe you really want, I wouldn’t wait for them to go on sale as they may not be included or they may be sold out.

Other affordable barefoot shoe options

• AliExpress: I’ll caveat this by saying I haven’t tried any of the options off AliExpress, but there are what look like cheap barefoot shoe options for about $20. I don’t know the quality, but they are probably very similar to some of the Amazon brands like Whitin or Saguaro. AliExpress items can take awhile to ship since they’re usually coming straight from China. If you try any, let me know how you like them.  
• More options on Amazon: A lot of different brands that all look pretty similar often pop up on Amazon. Many of them may be manufactured at the same place, and simply branded differently. I haven’t kept up with all the different Amazon brands, so if there’s a new one you’ve tried that you like, please share in the comments below.

Affordable Barefoot Sandals 

If you live where the weather is warm at least part of the year, opting for sandals is a great way to add another pair of affordable barefoot shoes to your closet. I love how light and free my feet feel in sandals, so opt for them pretty often when the weather is warm enough. 

Earth Runners Elemental Lifestyle Sandals — $66 

I really love my Earth Runners sandals and wear them often, even for hiking. I highly recommend getting the softer lifestyle laces; I found the performance laces too thick and uncomfortable. Use code KELLY10 for 10% off. You can also check reearthrunners.com for gently used or returned sandals at a discounted price.

Xero Shoes Sandals — $20 to $50 

Xero Shoes has a few cheap barefoot sandal options, including the Genesis sandal for $43 and the Jessie women’s sandals for $50. They also have a DIY sandal kit for $20 that is a rubber sole and some laces. My personal favorite Xero Shoes sandal is the Z-Trail, which costs $80. 

Shamma Sandals Cruzers — $54 

Shamma makes some of my favorite sandals due to the simple, comfortable strap systems. They have different sole thicknesses and customization options, but the Cruzers are the lowest cost option. Use code BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for 10% off.  

Unshoes Wakova Feather — $57

Unshoes makes a simple, lightweight sandals that works for light hiking or casual wear. Use code nomanbefore10 for 10% off.  

Coupon codes for Barefoot Shoes

Many barefoot shoe brands offer evergreen discount codes that can be used throughout the year. I have a list of barefoot shoe coupon codes here. These usually give you 5% to 15% off barefoot shoes, depending on the brand. I also list some of the best current barefoot shoe sales at the top of the post, so it’s a good resource to check whenever you’re ready to make a purchase.

Where to buy discounted or used barefoot shoes

Buying used is another way to buy barefoot shoes on a budget. If you’re willing to shop around, you may be able to find a practically new or gently used pair for a pretty steep discount. Here are different places to shop for discounted or used barefoot shoes. 

Facebook Groups: One of the best places to find used barefoot shoes are the buy/sell/trade groups on Facebook. The groups listed below are pretty active, so they’re worth keeping an eye on or putting out a request to see if someone is willing to sell. 

Minimalist Shoe Buy/Sell/Trade (USA) 

KIDS Minimalist/Barefoot Shoes BUY/SELL/TRADE (USA) 

Europe Buy/Sell/Trade Minimalist, Barefoot Shoes 

eBay: eBay can be a good place to hunt for used barefoot shoes from individual resellers, but Splay also has an outlet on eBay. The Splay Outlet is for factory seconds, which they describe as like new shoes, but with minor cosmetic defects. The shoes ship without a shoe box and there are no returns, refunds, or exchanges. Prices range from $30 to $45, and standard shipping is free. 

REI Outlet: REI sells a few barefoot or minimalist shoe brands, so discounted options can pop up on REI Outlet from time to time. They carry brands like Altras, Lems and Xero Shoes. Used options are typically around 50% off. For a few examples, at the time of this writing, I saw Xero Shoes Tari Boots for $72 (new $135), Xero Shoes Oswego sneakers for $42 (new $100), and Altra Lone Peaks for $68 (new $140).  

Sierra.com: Sierra is an online outdoor retailer that shares a parent company with TJMaxx, and operates with a similar model. So similar to TJMaxx (and Marshalls and Ross, etc), they get a lot of their inventory from liquidations or other retailers getting rid of prior season items. I’ve ordered Altras from here for around $60, and my sister just ordered a pair of Xero sandals for under $20. I’ve also seen a large selection of Vivobarefoot shoes for around $70 (which is over 50% off full retail). You never know what they’re going to have in stock and in may not last long, but it’s definitely worth checking!

Revivo – Vivobarefoot: Vivobarefoot runs a platform to repair and resell its own barefoot shoes called revivo.com. People can sell their used Vivobarefoot shoes back to the company where they’ll clean, repair, and prep them for resale. Shoes are priced according to condition. 

ReEarth Runners: Earth Runners has a separate website called reearthrunners.com where it sells  sandals that may be discontinued model, a lightly used return, or feature a cosmetic factory defect. There is a limited selection and availability varies, but you could find some of the most affordable barefoot sandals here. Most people I’ve seen that have purchased from ReEarth Runners have received sandals in really good condition without any significant or noticeable issues. Sandals start at $48 on this site compared to $74 at full price.

Other resale platforms: Check out other popular resale apps for cheap barefoot shoes, like Poshmark and Mercari. The brands I see most often on these apps are Altra, Vivobarefoot, Vibram Five Finger, and Merrell’s minimalist Vapor Gloves line.  

Large, seasonal barefoot shoe sales 

Black Friday/Cyber Monday 

One of the biggest sales throughout the year for many barefoot shoe brands is around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This last year, brands like Lems had 25% off sitewide, while other brands will discount select models. You can see my Black Friday Sales posts to get an idea of the sales that took place. 

I did want to note that if you’re in the US and purchasing from some European brands, sometimes an offer of free shipping can be a better option than a 20% or 30% discount around the holidays. I noticed this when a brand offered free shipping earlier in November, and then later offered a percentage discount. However, the shipping was now around €30 due to increased holiday shipping prices. In this example, the free shipping option earlier in the month was a better deal than the discount offered later on. Just something to keep in mind. 

A few popular brands did not have Black Friday sales, which is worth noting so you don’t wait thinking they’ll go on sale. They are Vivobarefoot, Mukishoes and Wildling. 

Preseason/End of Season Sales

Some brands have preseason or end of season sales. Preseason typically has smaller discounts (like 5 to 10%) for new styles at the start of the season. End of season is typically end of summer or end of winter to clearance out sandals or boots. I share shoe sales here.

Other tips for finding affordable barefoot shoes 

1 Keep an eye out when you’re shopping 

Occasionally, a traditional shoe company does make a shoe that has all the healthy features we’re looking for, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out. An “accidentally barefoot” shoe can be a really affordable option if you find one. Here’s what to look for in healthy shoes: 

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

Flat — There shouldn’t be any heel drop, which can sometimes be hidden in the inner sole. If it’s just the inner lining that’s creating the heel drop, you can always remove it. 

Thin — This helps keep shoes light and flexible and allows natural movement .

Flexible — Again, the focus here is allowing the foot to function naturally, so a shoe should allow the foot to easily bend.

2 If you have smaller feet, check the children’s sizes 

If you have smaller feet, consider taking a look at the children’s sizes. When I was looking up Altras, I realized that the largest child size goes up to EU39, or about a women’s US 7.5/8. The retail price for the child’s size was about half the price of the adult version. Reima is a popular kids wear brand that recently started making barefoot shoes, and their simple but cute knit Astelu sneakers go up to EU40 (they’re $52 with my discount code BAREFOOT20).

Kid’s shoes (even barefoot or foot-shaped options) can still be narrower overall, so this works best for this with smaller, narrower feet. But, something to look into if that’s you! 

3 Buy one type of shoe at a time

If you’re brand new to barefoot shoes, keep in mind that your feet may grow and spread out now that they regularly have more space and you may be utilizing your muscles more. Many people see changes in their feet as they switch to barefoot shoes, and may actually end up needing a larger shoe size later on. So if you keep in mind that a year or so after you switch to barefoot shoes, the first pairs you bought may be too small. While it’s great to go for quality in your shoe purchases, I wouldn’t recommend buying the most expensive barefoot shoes as your initial barefoot shoe purchases. I recommend taking it a season at a time and replacing one or two of your most worn shoes for the period. And remember to remeasure your feet with every shoe purchase, especially at the beginning.

4 Buy what you like and need 

Lastly, I just want to encourage you to buy a pair of shoes that you like and that fits your current needs. Even if that means waiting and saving awhile for it. 

I’ve been guilty far too often of buying something close to what I wanted, but it wasn’t quite it, only because it was a lot less. If that was all I purchased and it filled my need, then I would’ve saved money. But usually what ended up happening was that I would buy two or three things that were adjacent/similar to what I actually wanted over the months or years….and if I added up the total amount I spent, it was usually around what I would’ve spent if I’d just bought the exact thing I had wanted in the first place.  

I know $100+ for shoes are not in many people’s budgets, period. But, if it’s something you can save up for, it may end up saving you in the long run. This is mostly a reminder for me, but hope it helps if you needed to hear it too.   

Final Thoughts

In closing, I hope that as barefoot shoes become more popular, more affordable options become available. I see this as one the pieces to a healthier life, and would love for it to be more accessible to more people, both in price and buying options. I’m still waiting for stores in the US to carry them so we can try them on in person!

If you have any other tips on finding affordable barefoot shoes, please share below! 

The post Affordable Barefoot Shoes: Buying Barefoot Shoes on a Budget  appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

As parents, we all want to find shoes for our kid’s that are good for their feet and realistic for our budget. As barefoot shoes promote healthy foot develop and aim to allow a more natural walking gait, they’re the best option for most kid’s. But many barefoot shoes options are expensive, and often times

If you’re looking for healthy and affordable shoes for kids, I’m going to share that list here. 

I know finding healthy and affordable shoes can be difficult — and I know it can be cost prohibitive when kids are often times growing out of shoes every few months. 

Most barefoot shoe companies are still pretty small, and a lot of them are using local materials and labor and creating a quality product which is why they’re often a lot more expensive than something that’s mass produced.  

This post isn’t just a list of cheap barefoot shoes for kids, because to be honest, there aren’t that many as I’m sure we all wish there were. I’ve listed the few affordable barefoot shoe brands for kids, but also provided tips on finding better deals on barefoot shoes, including where to find sales throughout the year, when most sales take place, and where to buy gently used barefoot shoes.  

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

Keep an eye out when you’re shopping

Occasionally, a traditional shoe company does make a kid’s shoe that has all the healthy features we’re looking for, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out. Here’s what to look for in healthy shoes for kids:

• Wide toe box: there should be plenty of room for those toes to wiggle. The toe box should not taper, which will squish the toes together.
• Flat: No drop between the heel and the toe. A small heel can sometimes be hidden in the inner sole. If it’s just the inner lining that’s creating the heel drop, you can always remove it.
• Thin: This helps keep shoes light and flexible and allows a child to walk naturally
• Flexible: Again, the focus here is allowing the foot to function naturally, so a shoe should allow the foot to easily bend.

For a complete list of my favorite barefoot shoes for kids, check here. For all of my discount and coupon codes, check out this post here.

So, next up, here is a list of children’s affordable barefoot shoes.

Best Affordable Barefoot Shoes for Kids Under $50

1 Saguaro – $35

Knit, canvas or microfiber Synthetic Uppers | Sizes US Toddler 7.5 – US Men’s 14 | Code KELLY15 for 15% off on Saguaro.com | Free shipping on orders over $18

Code KELLY15 for 15% off on the Saguaro Shoes website

We initially started wearing Saguaro Shoes a few years ago when they just had one hiking/water shoes style (pictured above). The soles are foot shaped, flexible and grippy and the uppers are a stretchy, breathable knit. In fact, the width and durability on these has been just as good or even better than many of the more expensive barefoot shoe brands for kids.

More recently Saguaro has been releasing more causal-looking kid’s shoes, which means even more affordable barefoot shoes styles for kids.

The original water shoes are available both from the Saguaro Shoes website and on Amazon, though they usually come out a better deal on the Saguaro website with my discount code KELLY15 for 15% off. The casual shoes have only been available directly from Saguaro Shoes. And even though these are pretty cheap barefoot shoes for kids, they’ve held up well for the summer.

2 WHITIN Kid’s Wide Barefoot shoes – $37

Synthetic Mesh and Knit or Cotton Canvas Uppers | Sizes Women’s US 6 – Men’s US 13 |Little Kid’s 10.5 – Big Kid’s 5 | Free Shipping and Returns on Amazon

SHOP WHITIN on AMAZON

WHITIN has made some of the most popular affordable barefoot shoes for adults for the last few years. In 2023, they added a kid’s style. The WHITIN barefoot kid’s shoes start at size Little Kid’s 11/EU28 and go up to Big Kid’s 5/EU37. For larger sizes, see the adult shoes.

The kid-friendly features include two velcro straps to secure, breathable mesh uppers and a protective layer around the toe to help with durability. I include WHITIN’s on my list of best barefoot shoes for beginners because they opt for more cushion vs more ground feel, but this can be helpful in terms of longevity for kid’s who tend to wear our their barefoot shoes quickly. WHITIN Kid’s shoes have a wide-foot, shaped toe box. They are zero-drop, but do have a slight toe spring.

WHITIN is available on Amazon with free shipping and free returns.

Other Affordable Barefoot Brands on Amazon

WHITIN is one of the main barefoot brands selling through Amazon, but there seem to be more brands popping up all the time. Check out similar options including Cior, Bronax, Besroad, Nortiv8 and Ubfen. Not all of the shoes from these brands may be barefoot, so double check the description and reviews for the particular style to get a better idea.

3 Splay Athletics – starting at $45 

Cotton Canvas Uppers | Size Child US8 – Men’s US13 | Code KELLY10 for 10% off

SHOP SPLAY SHOES

Code KELLY10 for 10% off

This is one of the first barefoot shoe brands I tried and my son wore them through several different sizes. The uppers are cotton canvas. They’re wide and flexible. They fit lower volume feet best, so if you’re child has higher volume feet, meaning they take up more space from top to bottom, these are not the best option.

Splay’s original velcro style the Explore is the most affordable, starting at $45. Splay also has a lace up shoe called the Freestyle that starts at $53. These are great if you have kid’s that feel like they’re too old for velcro. And finally they have a barefoot slip-on for those that prefer no laces or velcro.

To get an even better deal on Splay’s barefoot shoes, check out their outlet on eBay for Factory Seconds. Kid’s shoes start at $25 and usually offer free shipping. Factory Seconds means that they’re new, but have slight imperfections. Generally, I’ve heard really good feedback on these.

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4 Ten Little Shoes – $39 

Faux Leather or Cotton Canvas Uppers | Size Toddler US6 – Youth 4

Ten Little makes affordable barefoot shoes for kids and toddlers that have simple, classic styling. They have faux leather and canvas sneakers as well as sandals, rain boots, snow boots, high tops, and some lined high tops for colder weather. Plus, they come in a whole rainbow of fun colors! 

Ten Little Shoes feel a bit thicker than many barefoot shoes to start out with, but I’ve found that they soften up with time. They’re definitely a lot thicker than some of the most minimal barefoot brands, like Wildling. While I can easily ball up my toddler’s Wildling shoes in one hand with little effort, it does take more force to bend and twist the Ten Little Shoes.

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

They do have a good amount of toe space. I also like that they have a removable insole that makes it easy to check fit. Read a full brand review on Ten Little shoes here.

The little kid’s sneakers use velcro, while the bigger kid’s sneakers use laces.

5 Merrell Bare Steps – Start at $35 

Leather, Mesh or Synthetic Uppers | Size Toddler US4 – Little Kid 9.5 | Free shipping and returns on Amazon

SHOP MERRELL BARE STEPS

While Merrell’s typical hikers can be a bit clunky, the shoes in the Kids Bare Steps line are stripped down to the barefoot basics. This line starts at US Toddler size 4. Every style in this barefoot line is made of 45% recycled materials and features sneakers, water shoes, hikers, and boots for colder weather. They water shoes have been awesome for my toddler this summer as they accommodate his higher volume feet.

The sole is minimal and flexilble, but it is a bit thicker than other barefoot shoe brands like Wildlings and Splay Athletics. The toe box is reasonably wide, but again, not as wide as some other barefoot shoe brands. Overall, I’ve been really happy with the function and durability of the Merrell Bare Steps line for toddlers and young kids–and I wish they extended the sizing for bigger kids!

Most of the Merrell Bare Steps line is available on Amazon, with free shipping and free returns. They’re also available on Merrell’s website.

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6 Reima Barefoot Shoes – $40

Sythetic Uppers | Size US Toddler 6 (EU22) – Kid’s 6 (EU40) | Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

SHOP Reima

Code BAREFOOT20 for 20% off

The popular Finnish kidswear brand Reima currently offers three barefoot shoe styles for kids: a sandal, a knit sneaker, and a waterproof sneaker. All have very affordable price points. The sandals start at $40 and the sneakers start at $60. With the coupon code BAREFOOT20, these are both under $50.

The stretchy knit sneakers are breathable and great for warm weather. Since the first version, they’ve added a reinforced area over the toe box to make them more durable. We’ve especially loved these for the toddler age as they slip on super easily and quickly.

They have both toddler and big kid sizes. In fact, they go up to an EU40 (usually a US women’s 9.5, so these can be a great affordable barefoot shoe for adults with smaller feet too).

These have a thin, flat and flexible sole and a foot-shaped toe box. They generally fit kids with narrow to medium width feet best, and are lower volume over the toes. See a full review of the Reima barefoot kid’s shoes here.

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7 Origo Shoes – $54

Canvas Uppers | Size Child US8 – Adult | Code KELLY for 10% off

Origo Shoes

Origo focuses on using sustainable materials in its barefoot shoes, including in the cotton canvas velcro sneakers that cost $54 using the coupon code KELLY. They have men’s, women’s and kid’s sizes. These have a decent toe box shape, but are overall narrower, so fit kid’s with narrow feet best.

If they are having a sale, often times this code will stack, so you can get 20% or 30% off the retail price for an even better deal. Sizes come in Toddler 8 to US Kid’s 4.

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8 Anatomic Barefoot Kids Shoes – $18 on PedTerra 

SHOP ANATOMIC

Anatomic has super affordable barefoot shoes for kids! These linked ones are $18. In addition, you can use code KELLY for 10% off on PedTerra. These ones don’t always seem to be in stock on PedTerra, which is why I put this one further down the list. It’s a great deal if you can find them though!

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9 Soft-soled shoes and moccasins for toddlers from brands like Jack & Lily, Robeez

For younger kids and toddlers, soft-soled leather shoes and moccasins are often a good place to start for healthy shoes. And many of them are pretty affordable. I like to look at Etsy, plus brands like Jack & Lily and Robeez. Jack & Lily sometimes has 50% off flash sales, and also offers 50% off your first order when you sign up for their JL club.

Here are a few Etsy Shops to check out:

• Ebooba 
• DancewearByJay
• Soft Walker Shoes
• Starry Knight

10 BGreater Shoes – $45

The mission of this UK-based minimalist shoe brand for kid’s is to make barefoot shoes more accessible. When chatting with the owner, Iain, he said his first priority was making a healthy, durable shoe at a price he could afford. BGreater has tried to keep both prices and shipping costs low. BGreater Shoes are £35 in the UK with 99p returns. You can now get them here in the US at $45, with $20 international shipping.

In an effort to make these more durable and more mainstream, they are more on the narrower and stiffer side of minimalist shoes for kids. They have somewhat of a “false toe” where the toe portion that tapers is meant to be empty space. This is included in the size guide.

BGreater has several styles available, including tennis shoes and all black school shoes.

*Almost* Barefoot Shoes at Large Retailers (like Target, Walmart and Zara)

In an effort to provide as many affordable options as possible, I wanted to share a super affordable compromise option. By that, I mean these are 100% ideal for all of the attributes listed above, but still check most of the boxes. The shoes are still healthier options than most of what is out there, and may be a good fit for you based on budget or the type of use.

Cat & Jack Sneakers at Target

This Target brand makes a pair of canvas velcro sneakers called they Toddler Parker Sneakers, and they’ve carried them for several years. I noted these as a compromise shoe as they’re reasonably wide but do have a slight taper at the toe. Ideally, the toe box would be completely straight or fan out at the big toe, where these do curve slightly in. You can pull out the insole to test to see if they are wide enough for your child’s feet. I also recommend removing the insole, as there is some extra padding at the heel which creates a slight heel drop. Without the insole, they appear to be zero drop.

At $10 a pair, they’re one of the most affordable minimalist shoes out there. And you can stop by your local Target to try them on and find the right size.

All in Motion Mesh Water Shoes at Target

We just found these at Target in March 2025, and the All in Motion mesh water shoes are *almost* perfect, and $25. And even though they’re tagged as water shoes, they look like a simple but nice mesh sneaker. They have a foot-shaped toe box, the sole is flexible, but there is a bit of a heel drop. I can feel a few millimeters of extra cushion in the removable insole, which will likely compress with wear, or you can just remove it. But the actual sole feels thicker in the heel as well, so these are going to have a slightly heel-to-toe drop.

Wonder National Toddler Adaptive Sneakers

I’ve recently heard really good things about the adaptive sneakers from the Walmart brand Wonder Nation. They have a full price of $18.98, though I’ve seen them on sale for $9. I’ll note that I haven’t tried these yet, but plan to soon! They look like they have a decent toe box with a flexible sole. They do describe them as having “a barefoot-like design,” but it sounds like they do come with a bit of cushion. The main cons I’ve seen is that the faux leather isn’t the most durable.

Zara Toddler Barefoot Shoes

I used to love shopping at Zara for the cutest kids’ shoes and sandals…but that was before I found barefoot shoes. Thankfully, it looks like another large retailer is catching onto the trend of barefoot shoes, and offering a healthier option (at least in the smaller sizes). The Zara barefoot sneakers come in toddler sizes US 4 through 9, and retail at $43.

Where to buy discounted or used barefoot shoes for kids

Buying used is another way to buy kid’s barefoot shoes on a budget. If you’re willing to shop around, you may be able to find a practically new or gently used pair for a pretty steep discount. Here are different places to shop for used barefoot shoes. 

Facebook Groups  

One of the best places to find used barefoot shoes are the buy/sell/trade groups on Facebook. The groups listed below are pretty active, so they’re worth keeping an eye on or putting out a request to see if someone is willing to sell. 

KIDS Minimalist/Barefoot Shoes BUY/SELL/TRADE (USA) 

Wildling Shoes BST and Chat

Minimalist Shoe Buy/Sell/Trade (USA) 

Europe Buy/Sell/Trade Minimalist, Barefoot Shoes 

eBay 

eBay can be a good place to hunt for used barefoot shoes from individual resellers, but Splay also has an outlet on eBay. The Splay Outlet is for factory seconds, which they describe as like new shoes, but with minor cosmetic defects. The shoes ship without a shoe box and there are no returns, refunds, or exchanges. Prices range from $30 to $45, and standard shipping is free. 

REI Outlet 

REI sells a few barefoot or minimalist shoe brands, so discounted options can pop up on REI Outlet from time to time. They carry brands like Altras and Xero Shoes. Used options are typically around 50% off.

Revivo – Vivobarefoot 

Vivobarefoot runs a platform for its own barefoot shoes called revivo.com. People can sell their used Vivobarefoot shoes back to the company where they’ll clean, repair, and prep them for resale. Shoes are usually priced according to condition. 

Re-Earth Runners

This site specifically sells returned or slightly imperfect Earth Runner sandals for about half the price. Most kid’s Earth Runners sandals run $28 – $31.

Other resale platforms 

Check out other popular resale apps for cheap barefoot shoes, like Poshmark and Mercari. The brands I see most often on these apps are Plae, Altra, Vivobarefoot, and Merrell’s Bare Steps.

Large, seasonal barefoot shoe sales 

Black Friday/Cyber Monday 

One of the biggest sales throughout the year for many barefoot shoe brands is around Black Friday and Cyber Monday. This last year, brands like Splay Shoes, BeLenka, and Origo had great discounts on kid’s barefoot shoes. You can see my 2024 Black Friday Sales post to get an idea of the sales that took place. 

I did want to note that if you’re in the US and purchasing from some European brands, sometimes an offer of free shipping can be a better option than a 20% or 30% discount around the holidays. I noticed this when a brand offered free shipping earlier in November, and then later offered a percentage discount. However, the shipping was now around €30 due to increased holiday shipping prices. In this example, the free shipping option earlier in the month was a better deal than the discount offered later on. Just something to keep in mind. 

A few popular brands did not have Black Friday sales, which is worth noting so you don’t wait thinking they’ll go on sale. They are Vivobarefoot, Mukishoes and Wildling. 

Preseason/End of Season Sales

Some brands have preseason or end of season sales. Preseason typically has smaller discounts (like 5 to 10%) for new styles at the start of the season. End of season is typically end of summer or end of winter to clearance out sandals or boots. I share shoe sales here.

Looking for more barefoot shoes for kids?

If you didn’t find exactly what you’re looking for in this post, you may want to check out some of my other posts on barefoot shoes for kids–find them all here!

Still have questions?

Feel free to send me a message on Instagram @thebarefootshoeguide or go say hi on TikTok @barefootshoeguide.

The post Affordable Barefoot Shoes for Kids appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.

 Over the last several years, we’ve reviewed a lot of barefoot shoes, both for kids and adults. My son started wearing the Splay Explore about 5 years ago, and they remained one of his everyday favorites for several years. These minimalist shoes are versatile, affordable, hold up even with a lot of use, and are super easy for kids to slip on all by themselves.

Splay has since developed several styles and expanded into adult sizes.

The Splay Explore

Splay Athletics is the brand’s original barefoot shoe for kids. It features cotton canvas uppers with microfiber patches for durability, and a large velcro strap. They’re simple, minimal and affordable. This review covers everything about the Splay Explore from price point to materials to fit.

Fit and Sizing

The Splay Explore shoes start with toddler sizing and go all the way up to adult, so your kid could stick with this shoe all the way through their school years if they wanted to. Splay originally only had kid’s shoes, but added adult sizes a few years back. That means you can have some cute twinning moments with your kid if you want.

Not all feet are the same, so it’s important to get a shoe that fits your foot (or in this case, your child’s foot). These Splay shoes are very versatile, but tend to fit kid’s with narrower, lower volume feet best. These were a great fit for my older child, and he comfortably wore them for several years.

Now that my younger son is out of the smallest toddler sizes, I was able to pass on that first pair of Splay Explore shoes my son wore. He has a much higher volume foot, so they aren’t as good of a fit for him. Kid’s with higher volume feet may find a better fit by sizing up, or by going with a barefoot shoe brand that accommodates them better.

I did notice that these shoes are a bit on the narrow and shallow end overall (even with a wide toe box). If you or your child has wide or high volume feet you may want to size up. Kid’s with high volume feet may have issues with the velcro strap not being long enough to stay securely fastened.

My son’s feet are average width and volume and Splay shoes fit him perfectly. Splay has a sizing guide on its website to help you get the right fit and size. Splay shoes tend to run small, so I recommend sizing up if you are between sizes.

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. 

7 Reasons Splay Shoes are Amazing Barefoot Shoes for Kids

1 Affordable

Just to start off, Splay shoes are one of the most affordable barefoot shoes for kids out there. While I can think of a well-made pair of shoes for me as an investment, it’s hard to think the same way when I know a child will grow out of a pair of shoes within a few months. If a shoe is the most amazing kids’ barefoot shoe out there, but it’s two times my budget, then it’s going to be pretty hard to justify the purchase.

Splay shoes are $44 for toddler sizes, and $48 for children’s sizes. And with our Splay Athletics coupon code KELLY10, you get an additional 10% off.

2 Durable

It can be hard to find the right balance between flexibility and durability for a barefoot sole, and I think Splay Athletics got it just right.

After reading how affordable these shoes are, you may have a few questions about durability. Don’t worry though, the Splay Athletics shoes have held up just as well or even better to other barefoot shoes my son has worn, and even with more use. He’s currently on his third pair after outgrowing his first one, and we haven’t had any issues with the sole or uppers wearing through. He wears hiking, biking and playing at the park.

Splay launched on kickstarter a few years ago with a different model using different materials. It looks like they learned a lot from that initial run and implemented a lot of key changes that help these barefoot shoes to handle a lot of daily outdoor use.  

The rubber sole comes up around the edge and the toes are reinforced with microfiber, both which help with durability and don’t compromise on comfort or flexibility.

The one caveat I will say about durability with these shoes is that they don’t do well if they’re fully submerged in water. The soles are attached with a non toxic glue and do not have separate stitching, so the soles can detach if you try soaking them to wash them. Most people that have had this issue have received a replacement from Splay, so they do stand by their product if there is an issue like this. But generally it seems that these do best if you keep them from getting super wet.

In 2024, they changed their manufacturer to further improve the durability and address any of the previous issues.

3 Thin, Flexible Soles

If you’re in search of the perfect barefoot shoes for kids, the Splay Athletics shoes excel at all the barefoot basics starting with thin, flexible soles.

The soles are a few millimeters thick and made out of vulcanized rubber. They are thick enough to provide protection and comfort, but allow for a greater sensory connection to the earth. You can test out the flexibility by easily balling the shoes up or twisting them around (something you definitely can’t do with a typical shoe!). These shoes also have good grip!

4 Wide Toe Box  

Another feature of a barefoot or minimalist shoe is a wide toe box. Barefoot shoes give your toes the room to properly splay, hence the name of this barefoot brand. When you compare the toe box of Splay shoes to a traditional kid’s athletic shoes, you can see how much better they fit the natural shape of the foot and give your kid’s toes plenty of room to wiggle.  

5 Zero-drop Platform

The Splay shoes have a zero-drop platform, which means the rubber sole is completely flat, as is the inner lining. The heel is not raised and there is no arch support, creating a completing flat surface.

6 Easy to put on and wear

The Splay shoes have a large Velcro strap, which is especially great if you’re looking for barefoot shoes for toddlers that can’t yet tie their own shoes. They’re easy for kids to put on by themselves.

My son most often wears these shoes without socks and finds them super comfortable.  

7 Vegan Materials

The Splay Explore has a clean, simple design made of cotton canvas and microfiber, and feels so well made. The canvas is durable, and the microfiber reinforces the toe and the heel. 

More Splay styles now available

Splay has been busy launching new styles, so now there’s more options beyond the Original Explore. Check out these new styles from Splay:

Splay Freestyle

This is a lace up version of Splay’s popular canvas shoes. They come in sizes for both kids and adults.

Splay Freestyle Slip-ons

For those that don’t like laces or velcro, Splay has the Freestyle Slip-ons. These fit those with lower volume feet best (similar to the other Splay shoes).

Splay Freestyle in Leather

The newest option at Splay Athletics is the Freestyle in leather. They come in black, white and brown leather with gum soles. Currently sizing starts at adult US M5/W7. These retail for $109, so they’re $36 more than the Freestyle in canvas uppers for the adult sizes. The new leather version is currently 15% off with code FREE15 during the initial launch of the shoe (March 2023).

Splay Dash Sneakers

Splay has updated their original barefoot kids’ shoes with a more modern look and feel. The new Dash sneakers have the same outsole as the original Explore and Freestyle shoes, but with trendier styling; think breathable mesh uppers and a durable TPU toe guard. They’re going to fit very similarly to the Explore, so they’re ideal for those with a wider toe splay and narrower ankles, sometimes called “pizza feet.” Like the Explore, they’re best suited to lower volume feet.

My older son, who wore the Explore for years, loves the fresh design, but removed the insole for more volume. But for my younger child with chunkier feet, Splay still runs too low volume. 

Drop any questions below, or send me a message on Instagram!

The post Splay Athletics Explore Shoes Review: Affordable Barefoot Sneakers for Kids appeared first on Barefoot Shoe Guide.