TOP 13 Best Barefoot Running Shoes for Men & Women Reviewed 2024
Interested in barefoot running?
Don’t know where to start?
I’m here to help!
Introducing the best barefoot running shoes of 2024.
This article will give you a kick start into the world of barefoot running, with all the top barefoot-style shoes and a little know-how on what to expect.
Keep reading to find out more!
Contents
- TOP 13 Best Barefoot Running Shoes 2024
- Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4
- New Balance Men’s Minimus MT10V1
- Vibram Men’s V-Run
- Topo Athletic Men’s ST-2
- Vivobarefoot Men’s Stealth 2
- Nike Men's Free RN 2018
- Altra Men’s Vanish R
- Merrell Women’s Vapor Glove 3
- Vibram Women’s V-Trail
- Saucony Women’s Kinvara 9
- Merrell Women’s Bare Access Arc 4
- Mizuno Women’s Wave Universe
- Xero Shoes Women’s Prio
- FAQs
TOP 13 Best Barefoot Running Shoes 2024
Merrell Men’s Trail Glove 4
- Mesh, TPU Upper. Vegan friendly
- Zero Drop
- Vibram TC5 Outsole, Trail Protect Pad. Stack heel or toe height is 0.45 inch. Trail protect pad offers underfoot protection
- Insole: 3mm, 3mm lugs
- Mselect Fresh Lining
Review: An extremely popular and highly rated minimalist running shoe, the Glove 4 is not a 100% barefoot shoe due to the instep support, but lands pretty close.
It provides ample protection from the perils of trail running while not separating you too much from the surface you’re running on and so maintaining a good ground-feel.
Rugged tread keeps you sticking to the ground where you need to, while its flexibility and light weight allow for the best barefoot running technique.
This shoe does have a piece of rubber which serves as instep support, you’ll either hate it, get used to it, or love it. So, as always, try before you buy.
Pros
- Rugged tread.
- Secure tongue and laces.
- Lightweight.
- Comfortable.
- Flexible.
- Breathable.
- Durable construction.
- Vibram sole.
- Instep support could make it a good transition shoe if you’re new to barefoot running.
Cons
- Interior instep support so not completely barefoot.
- Narrower toe box than previous models (but still not necessarily narrow).
- Sole is a little stiff as far as minimalist shoes go (but this can be a good thing on the trail).
Takeaway
A reliable trail running shoe for the minimalist runner, the Trail Glove 4 is especially ideal for those transitioning to barefoot running due to the slightly stiffer sole and instep support.
These are the best barefoot trail running shoes of 2024.
New Balance Men’s Minimus MT10V1
- Acteva midsole
- 4 mm drop - due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 4 mm drop are approximate
- 4 mm drop - due to variances created during the development and manufacturing processes, all references to 4 mm drop are approximate
Review: New Balance’s Minimus 10v1 is a minimalist trail running shoe that stands its ground alongside the unbeatable Merrell’s and Vibram’s in the barefoot world.
The Acteva foam midsole provides some stability and shock absorbance while also being responsive. The mesh upper allows for maximum flexibility and breathability while fitting like a comfortable sock, the way it should.
Finally, the Vibram soles with multidirectional lugs stand up against all kind of trail terrain and provide a little more protection than Merrell’s Glove, making this an ideal choice for minimalist trail running.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Durable Vibram outsole.
- Antibacterial interior.
- Pretty stable for a minimalist shoe.
- Good traction with multidirectional lugs.
- Responsive.
- Breathable.
Cons
- 4mm drop so not completely zero drop.
Takeaway
A fantastic option for minimalist trail running (pick up the road version if you’re mostly a pavement junky) and another of the best barefoot trail running shoes.
Vibram Men’s V-Run
- VIBRAM VI-LITE: features the ultimate in lightweight, shock absorption cushioning, for maximum energy conservation.
- VIBRAM XS RUN: provides a maximal stable hardness across a broad temperature range and the softness of the compound allows for expansive ground contact adn grip across lug surfaces. XS RUN also provides high grip on smooth surfaces.
- VIBRAM MONT: compound formulation is optimized for mountaineering, treking, acrobatic, works and motorbike racing. MONT is used to conquer the highest peaks in the world by offering the highest reliability on the most difficult terrain at low temperatures.
- SOLE SPEC: Insole: 2mm EVA + Drillex Sockliner. Midsole: 4mm EVA. Rubber: 2.5mm
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Machine Wash Cold/Air Dry
Review: Thes V-run are Vibram’s latest FiveFinger barefoot road running shoes designed for the road.
They have a softer, more breathable upper than previous designs, and truly excel on the road, being especially great for long distances and high volume running.
They are also designed to be a comfortable shoe in more extreme temperatures, giving you a versatile option for barefoot running throughout the year.
The EVA foam midsole provides cushioning and responsiveness while being durable and lightweight.
Overall, you can’t really go wrong with these top-rated shoes.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Breathable.
- Snug fitting.
- Cushioned compared to the KSO and KSO EVO.
- More durable than previous models.
- Extremely soft, comfortable upper material.
- Easy to get on and off.
- Good traction.
Cons
- On the pricey side.
Takeaway
These are the best barefoot running shoes for road running, being the next best thing after bare feet, and the top rated barefoot running shoes.
Topo Athletic Men’s ST-2
- Best For: Road Running, Gym
- Anatomical toe box allows toes to spread naturally and comfortably
- Printed upper pattern eliminates seams while reducing weight
- Lightweight breathable materials for a '2nd Skin' fit and feel
- Completely neutral drop for the most natural running experience; Weight:6.9 oz (Size 9)
Review: The Topo ST-2 ticks all the boxes for a minimalist running shoe with its extremely light weight, flexible design, zero drop and breathable upper.
It gets very close to providing a true barefoot running experience while still being a shoe and providing a little protection and security.
The Topo ST-2 provides a comfortable minimalist ride and while these shoes are intended for shorter, speed-focused workouts, if you’re an experienced barefoot runner, they will go the distance.
Pros
- Cushioned.
- Lightweight.
- Wide toe box.
- Durable.
- Breathable.
- Flexible.
- Affordable.
Cons
- Could do with more cushioning in the forefoot compared to the heel.
Takeaway
A great option for a minimalist running shoe, especially if you’re looking for an affordable pair to add to your mix of runners while transitioning to purely barefoot running.
Good cheap barefoot running shoes.
Vivobarefoot Men’s Stealth 2
- V-Mesh - Provides breathability to the interior.
- EVA cage with thin mesh - Supports the structure while allowing full flexibility.
- Outlast lining - Retains body heat to keep your feet warm as you run.
- Hydroponic mesh - Provides a water-resistant structure that does not pass on breathability.
- V-Road sole unit - This flexible, soft and wet/dry slip resistant sole lets your foot do its thing with pure sensory clarity.
Review: The Vivobarefoot Stealth 2 is another popular barefoot road running shoe. It is designed to be a minimal layer between you and the earth, with only a 3mm, puncture-resistant sole.
So, if you haven’t toughened your skin, watch where you run and avoid sharp surfaces. The sole may not puncture, but you’ll still feel everything.
The hexagonal webbed upper allows for breathability and flexibility. The overall design is extremely lightweight and minimalist while providing decent durability and traction on road surfaces.
It offers minimal stability, but this is kind of the point of barefoot running!
Pros
- Comfortable.
- Flexible.
- Lightweight.
- Does not require long break-in period.
- Roomy toe box.
- Vegan-friendly shoes.
- Removable footbed can be customized.
- Zero drop.
Cons
- Not really suitable off-road.
- Minimal protection against sharp ground objects.
- Colors may bleed.
Takeaway
Another great choice for barefoot road running, get ready to let those 200,000 nerve endings in your feet fire away!
Nike Men's Free RN 2018
- Brand - Nike
- Textile/mesh upper
- Lace-up closure
- Single-layer mesh and synthetic upper materials
Review: The latest model in Nike’s Minimalist Free line, the Free RN 2018s are lightweight, comfortable and flexible, designed to feel as though you are running barefoot through grass.
They are a versatile option, designed for shorter distances but perfectly capable of coping with long millage provided you’ve adequately trained your feet.
This shoe sports a unique tread design which is best suited to road runs and soft surfaces but not so much gnarly trails, as stones and debris are likely to get caught in the grooves.
Its unique Flywire lacing system stabilizes your foot for a snug fit while allowing for adequate flexibility and expansion.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Breathable.
- Flexible.
- Comfortable.
- Snug fitting.
- More cushioning than most minimalist shoes.
Cons
- Tread not ideal for trail running.
- 8mm drop so not a true barefoot shoe.
- Not super durable.
Takeaway
While the 8mm drop means this is not a true barefoot shoe, the additional cushioning in the heel makes the Free RN 2018 good barefoot running shoes for newbies to barefoot running who are still transitioning.
Altra Men’s Vanish R
- Weight: 3.9 oz / 111 g
- Insole: 5 mm Flat
- Midsole: Durable exposed springy EVA with Propel Plate
- Outsole: Laminated rubber pods
- Cushion: Low
Review: The Altra Vanish R is a lightweight, flexible competition shoe. Its 14mm total stack height keeps you as grounded as you would be barefoot while providing a smooth ride.
Designed to be a racing flat, these shoes are not designed to cope with lots of miles so they will wear faster than others may, but will allow you a speedy workout or race if that’s your criteria.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Flexible.
- Snug fit.
- Comes with 2 different removable insoles to choose from.
- Great ground-feel.
- Seamless mesh upper feels like a sock.
Cons
- Designed for racing so won’t cope with everyday mileage.
- Runs small.
Takeaway
If you want a speedy shoe for racing, speed workouts, or to provide a bit of variety to your running shoe repertoire, these are a great option.
Merrell Women’s Vapor Glove 3
- Mesh Upper
- Zero Drop
- Barefoot Technology
- Vibram Outsole
- Durable
Review: The Vapor Glove 3 is a minimalist trail running shoe that is extremely lightweight, flexible and comfortable.
With its skin-friendly fabric, it is designed to be worn without socks, taking you one layer closer to the completely barefoot experience.
These shoes are true minimalists with no midsole cushioning.
Consequently, it is a shoe for the experienced barefoot runner.
Pros
- Vibram sole with good traction.
- Roomy toe box.
- Flexible.
- Comfortable.
- Lightweight.
- Vegan-friendly shoes.
Cons
- Fits small so go a size up.
- Absolute minimum protection underfoot so be prepared to feel everything.
Takeaway
These are the best women’s barefoot running shoes provided you are experienced and have the technique and foot strength for them.
Vibram Women’s V-Trail
Review: Vibram’s latest FiveFinger barefoot trail running shoes are a slightly more rugged version of the V-Run.
The 5mm rubber sole provides protection from debris while the aggressive tread copes with rough trail terrain. The V-Trails are ideal for experienced barefoot runners, being comfortable and ticking all of the boxes for the ideal barefoot shoe.
This is also one of the most stable and protective of Vibram’s shoes so a great option for beginners transitioning to barefoot running.
However, it has no midsole so minimal cushioning – introduce yourself slowly.
Pros
- Comfortable.
- Breathable upper feels like a sock.
- Snug fitting.
- Durable.
- High-quality sole provides protection against rocks and debris.
- Zero drop.
- Multi-directional lugs provide optimal traction.
Cons
- May need breaking in.
- Foot shaped design means a bit of practice is needed for putting on.
Takeaway
The Vibram V-trails are truly a fail-safe option for barefoot trail running, the best barefoot trail running shoes for women.
Saucony Women’s Kinvara 9
- EVERUN topsole
- Woven heel support
- EVA+ midsole
- Heel stack height - 23mm
Review: The Kinvara 9 is a staple shoe of the Saucony range, lightweight, neutral and minimal in its upper design.
However, though it is not a barefoot shoe when compared to the Merrells and Vibrams on the market, the 4mm drop and 23mm stack height at the heel makes this a great transition shoe for someone moving towards barefoot running.
A 4mm drop is still minimal when compared to conventional running shoes and prevents the feeling of forward compulsion, resulting in a natural running style.
Similarly, though it has substantially less cushioning than conventional running shoes, it has substantially more than the Vibrams.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Flexible.
- Some cushioning.
- Breathable mesh upper.
- More support and stability than most minimalist shoes.
- Versatile.
- Requires no break-in.
Cons
- 4mm drop.
- Pro-lock midfoot lacing system can be restrictive if not adjusted appropriately.
Takeaway
For all intents and purposes, the Kinvara 9 is a solid minimalist running shoe.
Not a true barefoot shoe when compared to the Vibram FiveFinger but still supporting a very natural running style.
Merrell Women’s Bare Access Arc 4
- Mesh and TPU upper
- Traditional lace closure
- Reflective details for increased visibility in low light
- Breathable mesh lining
- 0mm Drop / 8mm Heel Cush / 12.7mm Heel Stack Height
Review: Considered to be cushioned for a minimalist shoe, the Bare Access Arc 4 is another great option for those wanting to transition to barefoot running.
It is a neutral road running shoe with a zero drop and a minimalist outsole but reasonably cushioned midsole.
After a mile or two of breaking in, it fits like a glove the way minimalist shoes are supposed to and carries you the distance while encouraging a natural running style.
Pros
- Extremely spacious toe box.
- Zero drop.
- Lightweight.
- Breathable.
- Cushioned.
- Flexibility.
- Reasonably stable for a minimalist shoe.
Cons
- Benefit from being broken in.
- Outsole wears out a little fast.
- Not as durable as they could be.
Takeaway
These are likely to be the best barefoot running shoes for flat feet due to the little extra cushioning and spacious fit and for the same reasons the best barefoot running shoes for beginners.
Keen on the trail but not quite ready to take your barefoot running off-road? No sweat!
We have a list of the best trail running shoes for women right here. In fact, it’s actually safer to mix it up in the early days of becoming a barefoot runner, so having a more traditional pair of shoes to swap out with your barefoot shoes a couple of days of a week is a great way of giving your muscles a rest.
Mizuno Women’s Wave Universe
- Resin Waveplate offers lightweight cushion
- Lightweight, resiliant U4ic midsole foam
- This is a low heel-to-toe drop shoe designed for midfoot and forefoot strikers
- G3 outsole traction
- When race day comes, reach your peak with the ultra-lightweight Wave Universe 5 from Mizuno.
Review: The Wave Universe aims to be the lightest shoe in the universe, and it comes pretty close.
It is a neutral racing shoe with a sock-like upper, 2mm drop and 18mm stack height at the heel.
The flexible midsole provides some shock absorption resulting in more cushioning than would be expected from its ultra-lightweight design.
While its upper provides minimal protection from the elements, its sole is surprisingly protective against stones and debris.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight.
- Great ground-feel.
- Good traction.
- Breathable.
- Flexible midsole.
- Some shock absorption.
- Roomy toe box.
- Wide fit overall.
Cons
- Runs small.
- Not particularly durable.
Takeaway
A seriously lightweight racing flat perfect for speedy road running and mixing up your shoe repertoire but not suited to trail running.
Also a great option when looking for the best barefoot running shoes for wide feet.
Xero Shoes Women’s Prio
Review: The Xero Prio is a neutral, minimal, lightweight, performance running shoe. It scores highly in comfort, not needing a break in period and having the option of a removable insole.
Limited cushioning means that this is a minimalist shoe for experienced barefoot runners.
However, the effective lacing system provides structure and support which in combination with the heel cup provides a snug, secure fit.
Pros
- Wide toe box.
- Flexible mesh upper.
- Great traction.
- Protective outsole.
- 5mm stack height is seriously minimal.
- Reflective stripes for night safety.
- Durable.
- Wide fit.
- Versatile.
Cons
- Sizing runs small.
Takeaway
Another great option when looking for the best barefoot running shoes for wide feet.
But, let’s face it, 2mm soles are going to wear out faster than conventional running shoe soles, it’s just a fact.
[/su_note]Finally, most barefoot running shoes are going to breathable, lightweight, and as flexible as possible, allowing for a running style as close as possible to barefoot running.
They will also have a very spacious toe box and allow for maximum toe splay.
But, at the end of the day, comfort is the most important factor. And what one person finds comfortable will be different for someone else so you might need to experiment.
FAQs
Do You Wear Socks with Barefoot Running Shoes?
This is completely optional and depends on whether you’re prone to blisters or how well your shoes fit you.
There is no right or wrong answer for this, though barefoot shoes are usually designed to be worn without socks.
The only thing to bear in mind is that shoes with individual toes like Vibram’s Fivefingers, will require socks with individual toes.
Do Barefoot Shoes Strengthen Arches?
The short answer is ‘yes’. The longer answer is, it takes some time and you’ll have to train your feet in order to avoid injury.
Are Barefoot Shoes Worth it?
This depends on your goals and the current state of your feet. Some people’s feet are just never going to be able to transition to barefoot running. Other people find it life-changing.
If you’re on the fence, give it a try and see what you think.
How do You Run in Barefoot Shoes?
Running in barefoot shoes requires a shorter stride, slightly more upright posture, and a forefoot or midfoot strike.
It takes time to adjust your style and strengthen up your feet and calves so don’t rush this process.
Can You Wear Barefoot Shoes Every Day?
Definitely. But if you’re just starting out, limit this to a short amount of time and gradually build up.
Eventually, they’ll be the only kind of shoe you wear!
What are the Benefits of Running Barefoot?
Running barefoot strengthens the muscles in your feet and lower leg and changes your running style to land on your forefoot so that your feet are able to absorb the shock of impact and your knees and hips don’t have to.
Eventually, the theory is that this limits or eliminates the problems associated with over or under pronation and other injuries such as shin splints.
So there you have it, the best barefoot running shoes of 2024.
I hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful.
Good luck with your barefoot journey and be sure to comment and subscribe below.