Top Brands Redefining Barefoot Running Shoes

Barefoot running has gained popularity for its appeal to a more natural running experience. Many athletes and enthusiasts are turning to footwear designed to mimic the feeling of running barefoot, while still providing some protection. Brands like Vibram FiveFingers, known for their distinctive toe-separated design, and Merrell, with their versatile minimalist styles, have emerged as top choices for barefoot shoe enthusiasts. Moreover, Xero Shoes and Vivobarefoot also offer an impressive range of barefoot-inspired footwear, combining style and function. Discover the best options from these and other leading brands in our comprehensive list below.

Illustration of barefoot running shoes

Best brands of barefoot running shoes in 2025

Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot is a leading brand in the barefoot shoes market, known for its innovative and versatile products that cater to various needs, including trail running, daily wear, and transitional footwear from standard to barefoot styles. The brand's Primus Trail III All Weather FG, for example, features 5mm lugs and a rugged upper, making it ideal for cooler, wetter, and muddier conditions. With a focus on environmental sustainability, Vivobarefoot's shoes often incorporate recycled synthetic materials. The brand is expected to contribute to the global barefoot shoes market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2024 to 2034, reaching a value of USD 945.4 million by the end of the forecast period. Vivobarefoot's products are popular among both men and women, with a strong presence in regions like the United Kingdom and India. For more information about their products, visit the Vivobarefoot official website.

Merrell

Merrell is a leading brand in the barefoot running shoes market, known for its high-performance and innovative designs. Established in 1981, Merrell has expanded its product line to include minimalist running shoes like the Trail Glove and Vapor Glove, which offer a natural, zero-drop experience. In 2023, Merrell's total revenue reached $676 million, reflecting its strong market presence. The brand is particularly popular among men, who account for 47.6% of minimalist shoe sales, and it is expected to contribute to the global barefoot shoes market growth at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2024 to 2034. Merrell's commitment to quality, performance, and sustainability makes it a preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover their range of minimalist shoes.

Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes is a leading brand in the barefoot footwear market, known for its minimalist and natural movement designs. Founded in 2009 by Steven Sashen and Lena Phoenix, the company has seen significant growth, increasing its revenue from $8.8 million in 2018 to $78 million in 2023. Xero Shoes offers a wide range of products, including running shoes, trail shoes, hiking boots, and casual sandals, all featuring key elements like zero-drop soles, flexible materials, and wide toe boxes. The brand's focus on comfort, functionality, and natural foot movement has garnered a loyal customer base of over 1.5 million globally. With a projected market growth rate of 5.5% in the barefoot shoes sector, Xero Shoes continues to be a prominent player in the industry.

Altra

Altra is a leading brand in the barefoot running shoes market, known for its innovative shoe technology that does not interfere with natural foot function. Their shoes, such as the Altra Running series, offer a wide forefoot and narrow heel for maximum comfort and toe freedom. Altra shoes are popular among runners and hikers, contributing to the brand's significant presence in the market, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2024 to 2034. Men's Altra shoes are particularly popular, accounting for a substantial portion of the market, with men expected to make up 47.6% of minimalist shoe sales in 2024. The brand's commitment to comfort and functionality has made it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. For more insights, check out these best barefoot running shoes for healthy feet.

Lems

Lems is a highly regarded brand in the minimalist and barefoot shoe market, known for its ultra-minimalist and comfortable designs. The Lems Primal 2, for example, features a zero-drop platform, a wide toe box, and is made from 100% vegan materials, making it an excellent choice for those seeking foot health and natural movement. With a lightweight and flexible sole, these shoes promote midfoot strike and correct posture. Users have reported significant improvements in foot and overall body health, with 96% recommending the product. Lems shoes are designed to mimic the natural shape of the foot, providing maximum comfort and freedom for the toes.

Vibram FiveFingers

Vibram FiveFingers is a leading brand in the barefoot shoe market, known for its minimalist and natural foot movement design. The global FiveFingers Shoe market was valued at $9 million in 2022 and is forecast to reach $13 million by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030. These shoes, with their thin, flexible soles and individual toe sections, are popular among outdoor enthusiasts and those transitioning to barefoot walking or running. Vibram FiveFingers are particularly favored for activities like hiking, trekking, and urban sports due to their comfort and performance. The brand's innovative design has made it a staple in the growing barefoot shoes market, which is expected to reach $945.4 million by 2034 with a CAGR of 5.5%. For more information about their products, visit the Vibram FiveFingers official website.

Inov-8

Inov-8 is a prominent player in the barefoot shoes market, known for its innovative and high-quality products. The brand is part of the broader market that was valued at $471.1 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $788.7 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2022 to 2031. Inov-8's products, such as the F-Fly, are praised for their comfort, stability, and versatility in both running and lifting activities. The brand's focus on product launches and strategic expansions helps it remain competitive in the market. However, the high price of these shoes is a factor that could impact market growth. For more insights into Inov-8 and their products, visit their official website.

Wildling Shoes

Wildling Shoes is a renowned brand in the barefoot shoe market, known for its lightweight, flexible, and sustainable footwear. Founded in 2015, Wildling Shoes specializes in minimal shoes that mimic the feeling of walking barefoot, with features like a wide toe box, flat sole, and innovative sole gap for maximum flexibility. The brand's commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of vegan materials in many models and its ethical production practices. Wildling Shoes have gained popularity among runners, hikers, and parents seeking healthy footwear options for children, contributing to the global barefoot shoe market's growth, which is expected to reach USD 945.4 million by 2034 with a CAGR of 5.5%.

New Balance Minimus

New Balance's Minimus brand has established itself as a leading producer of barefoot running shoes, renowned for its minimalist design and exceptional performance. The Minimus series, which includes models like the Minimus Trail and Minimus Life, offers a snug, near-barefoot fit and exceptional traction, making them ideal for hiking and indoor workouts. With a heel-to-toe drop as low as 3.1 mm in the Minimus TR, these shoes provide a significant ground feel and stability. The market for barefoot shoes, including New Balance's Minimus line, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2024 to 2031, reaching a market size of $810.5 million by 2031.

Skora

Skora is renowned as one of the best producers of barefoot running shoes, specializing in minimalistic designs that promote natural running form. Their shoes, such as the Skora Fit and Skora Phase, feature zero-drop platforms, flexible constructions, and durable outsoles, making them ideal for runners seeking a more natural stride. The Skora Fit, for example, has a 16mm stack height and is designed for both speedwork and casual use, while the Skora Phase offers an even more minimalist experience with an 8mm stack height. Skora's focus on natural running and innovative technology has garnered a niche following since their inception. Despite some models being re-released with minimal changes, Skora remains a favorite among minimalist runners.