TLDR: If you’re in a hurry the Vibram V-Trail 2.0 is the Best Barefoot Running Shoes according to reddit!
‘I have V-trails (the originals and one pair of the 2.0). I wear them for snow and slushy ice sort of conditions. They are great. The only thing I don’t like is that the sharp lugs come up around the big toe and I kick my ankle and cut it open! I take a razor and slice off the sharpest part. There’s no need for the lugs to come up so high. Other than that, I’ve been through 2 pair (over 1000 miles combined) and I bought the 2.0’s without reservation. The TrekSports are nice too. I have those for mixed pavement conditions.’ – u/bonzai2010
- Polyester fabric upper with added lamination around the toes to prevent seam splitting
- The new upper is also more water repellent than the previous version
- Bungee laces with adjustable toggle closure for a secure fit
Barefoot shoes. Or minimalist shoes. Or natural footwear. Three terms for shoes that serve the same purpose, this kind of footwear has zero heel drop and an anatomical foot shape. Most of the shoes that we wear in our day-to-day lives cave in at the top. This leads to the toes being crammed in which is pretty detrimental to our foot health and it goes against the natural order of foot. And to add to it, most of the shoes provide heel elevation and comfy cushions, which leads to less usage of heels and weaker foot muscles.
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If you are into working out frequently or just generally into fitness, you may have come across the benefits of using minimalist shoes. Using minimalist shoes helps you get your foot’s natural inclination right and helps you develop strong foot muscles. Your feet are your base and it’s a good thing to have a strong base with good stability. There’s a reason why pro athletes prefer going barefoot for heavy weighted squats. Regular shoes or any fancy ‘sports’ shoes just won’t do. You need natural footwear that lets your feet move naturally as if barefoot.
Note: We use ‘barefoot’, ‘minimalist’, and ‘natural footwear’ interchangeably.
Here’s what Redditor u/chazzbass had to say regarding minimalist shoes:
‘all I know is that I work on super hard concrete floors for hours a day, and after a year of this my feet were starting to get pretty bad, hurting most of the time and starting to show symptoms of plantar plantar fasciitis. my knees hurt, my hips were hurting. im pretty fit and active so this was a bad thing. I tried all the shoes and inserts recommended and nothing worked, so I went the opposite way minimalist shoes. and all those problems melted away, It literally took less than a month for foot pain to be gone and all the joint issues to be gone. Im not a runner. but working all day in them and using them as my daily wear around town has been great and I cant ever envision myself going back.’
To the uninitiated, Reddit is a microblogging site where users worldwide discuss various topics ranging from personal care, fashion, and the likes to finance, share trading, and much more. There’s a topic of discussion on almost each and everything. And yes, there are several forums on barefoot running shoes as well.
In this article, we will be discussing some of the best barefoot running shoes out there. A lot of considerable input is taken from Reddit as well. Due to the anonymous nature of Reddit, most of the opinions and discussions are authentic. Real People. Authentic Opinions.
Before we move on to some of the best minimalist shoes you will ever see, let’s do a small dive into the benefits of these shoes and why you should be wearing them. You are free to skip right over to the next section.
Why you should be wearing Minimalist Shoes
There are a myriad of reasons on why you should be wearing barefoot shoes. As we mentioned earlier, they are known as natural footwear for a particular reason. Designed to closely mimic the natural shape and movement of your feet, minimalist shoes promote a more natural and unrestricted walking experience. This design encourages proper alignment of your feet, promoting a healthier gait and reducing the risk of foot problems caused by unnatural shoe designs.
Apart from the pretty straightforward reason mentioned above, there are plenty more benefits than just allowing your feet to breathe.
1. Feet are the Foundation
Your feet play a crucial role in maintaining overall body posture and balance. Minimalist shoes allow your feet to flex, spread, and move as they naturally would. This helps in strengthening the muscles in your feet and lower legs, leading to improved stability and a more solid foundation for your entire body.
2. Cooling Effect
Although this may not be a problem for some, it can be pretty uncomfortable at times and it’s just better to avoid it. Traditional shoes often trap heat and moisture, which can lead to discomfort and even bacterial growth. Minimalist shoes, with their lightweight and breathable design, promote better airflow around your feet. This not only keeps your feet cooler and more comfortable, but it also helps prevent issues like foot odor and fungal infections.
3. Small Change, Big Result
Making the switch to minimalist or barefoot shoes might seem like a minor adjustment, but it can have a significant impact on your overall foot health and posture. By encouraging your feet to move naturally and strengthening the muscles that support them, you’re potentially preventing various foot-related problems that can develop over time. It’s the little things that count. These small changes will compound over time and lead to healthier feet.
4. Enhanced Sensory Feedback
This may sound silly and a bit technological but hear us out. The soles of minimalist shoes are thinner and less cushioned compared to traditional shoes. This allows your feet to receive more sensory feedback from the ground, which can improve your body’s awareness of its surroundings and help with balance and coordination. Over time, this increased sensory input can lead to better movement control.
5. Reduced Joint Stress
Minimalist shoes encourage a forefoot or midfoot strike while walking or running, as opposed to the heel strike that’s common with cushioned shoes. This is how your feet are intended to be used. This change in foot strike can reduce the impact force on your joints, potentially lowering the risk of injuries like shin splints, knee pain, and even lower back discomfort.
6. Improved Foot Strength and Flexibility
Traditional shoes can weaken the muscles in your feet due to their restrictive designs. Minimalist shoes challenge your feet to work harder, promoting muscle strength and flexibility. Especially improve your ankle mobility. This can have positive effects not only on your feet but also on your overall lower body mechanics.
7. Versatile Design
Minimalist shoes often feature a versatile design that can be used for a variety of activities, from casual walking to gym workouts and even certain outdoor activities. This eliminates the need for multiple pairs of shoes for different purposes, making them a convenient and practical choice. You can practically go for a sprint and do squats right after, without having to remove your shoes.
8. Potential Posture Improvement
The more natural alignment and movement promoted by minimalist shoes can extend beyond the feet themselves. With improved foot posture and muscle strength, you might notice positive changes in your overall body posture, contributing to better spinal alignment and reduced strain on your muscles and joints.
Incorporating minimalist or barefoot shoes into your footwear rotation can lead to a range of benefits, from better foot health and posture to enhanced sensory awareness and overall comfort. However, it’s important to transition gradually and listen to your body to ensure a smooth adaptation to this style of footwear.
How to transition to barefoot shoes
You can’t just buy a pair of barefoot shoes and start wearing them right away. You won’t see any immediate results. Moreover, you shouldn’t keep any such expectations. Good things take time. You have to be patient and just be persistent enough to wear these shoes daily. Also, immediately making a switch to these natural footwear may be a bit painful. Your feet are accustomed to conventional shoes with their padded cushioning. Switching right away to thin-soled minimalist shoes without strengthening key areas at first may lead to an injury. Here’s a set of guidelines for you to slowly adapt to these footwear and its profound lifestyle.
Making the switch to minimalist shoes from conventional shoes can be a rewarding journey for your feet and overall well-being. Here are some tips to help you transition smoothly and enjoy the benefits of minimalist footwear:
1. Start doing Foot Mobility Exercises
Begin by focusing on foot exercises that enhance mobility and strength. Activities like toe spreads, picking up objects with your toes, and calf stretches can help reawaken the muscles that may have been neglected due to conventional shoes.
2. Start with Walking
Minimalist shoes offer a different level of support, so start your transition by walking in them regularly. Walking is a low-impact way to acclimate your feet to the new shoes while gradually building strength and improving your foot mechanics.
3. Mind Your Form
Conventional cushioned shoes can mask poor running form. Begin to address this by briefly running barefoot on a hard surface. You’ll naturally adjust your stride and landing, helping you adopt a more efficient and natural running technique. Short sessions of barefoot running can serve as valuable form practice.
4. Gradual Increase in Running Time
As you transition to running in minimalist shoes, take it slow. Gradually increase the time you spend running in them to allow your feet, muscles, and tendons to adapt. Prioritize maintaining proper form over distance or speed. Overloading your feet too quickly can lead to injury, so patience is key.
5. Embrace Movement Diversity
Incorporate a variety of movement forms to build overall strength and resilience. Engage in activities like jumping, cycling, squatting, and other functional movements to develop a well-rounded physical foundation. This diversity can help prevent overuse injuries common in repetitive activities like running. Some of you do not have such active lifestyles and while this may not seem conceivable, we highly recommend giving it a thought. You can do small basic exercises like squats, lunges, weighted calf raises (using household items) and much more.
6. Be Patient
Transitioning to minimalist shoes is a process that requires time. Your feet and body need to adjust to the new way of movement and support. Be patient with yourself, and don’t rush the process. Listen to your body and give it the time it needs to adapt and strengthen.
7. Alternate your footwear
To make your transition a bit smoother, alternate between your conventional shoes and minimalist shoes to prevent overloading your feet too quickly. This can also help reduce the risk of discomfort or injury as your feet adapt to the new style of footwear.
Remember, transitioning to minimalist shoes is about improving your foot health and movement patterns. By following these tips and allowing your body the time it needs to adapt, you can enjoy the benefits of minimalist footwear while minimizing the risk of injury. We estimate the overall process for you to switch over will take about two weeks.
Here’s a few tips from Redditors who made the switch to minimalist shoes:
‘I’d say start slow and short, but frequent. First mistake I made was doing my usual 5km without considering the changes in muscle usage, leading to week long aches. Walking every night in the new shoes helped me wrap my mind around what my posture should be bit by bit, which is a helpful as physically getting used to how it works.’ – u/Aelms
‘If it hurts, stop. Obviously a small amount of discomfort while walking can be tolerated because some pain is going to be unavoidable as you’re making the transition. But start out just wearing them for short walks, and gradually extending the length. Also, calf raises have been great for me with plantar fasciitis symptoms. Having the sole of your feet hurt like that makes you think that cushioning might not be such a bad idea after all, but if you strengthen your legs apropriately, it at least in my experience stops being a problem.’ – u/anonlymouse
Now let’s move on to some of the best minimalist shoes you can get your hands on. Or maybe feet.
Best Barefoot Running Shoes
1. Vibram V-Trail 2.0
From the brand that started it all, Vibram is known for kickstarting the whole barefoot shoes/minimalist shoes concept. With their original shoes receiving wide acclaim, Vibram is now one of the most reliable company that produces good quality durable minimalist footwear that will last you for years. The Vibram V-Trail 2.0 from Vibram Fivefingers is specifically designed for trail running enthusiasts who venture into rugged terrains and the great outdoors. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the remarkable V-Trail, which had earned a special place in the hearts of barefoot running enthusiasts, the V-Trail 2.0 introduces an evolved design that retains the exceptional features of the original sole while bringing new advancements to the table.
With these pair, Vibram Fivefingers have introduced the FLEX RIDGE. It is an extremely flexible component that stretches from your toes to the ball of your foot, which not only preserves the natural flexion of your foot but slightly elevates it. And at the core of it lies the same tried and tested sole structure that made the original V-Trail a favorite among barefoot running aficionados. But the thing we really liked the most is it’s Cocoon weave meshing. It helps disperse the impact of rocks and other obstacles, ensuring that you have a comfortable and secure running experience across a variety of terrains.
The V-Trail 2.0 is available in men’s as well as women’s.
Here’s what Redditors have to say about the V-Trail 2.0:
‘Have had the vtrails 2.0 for about 2 years now and have had no issues. The older version i had lasted just over 12 months as the toe gaps wore out due to grit rubbing. The rubber liner of the 2.0s dont seem to have the same issue. Not sure what faults other runners are having but i can say im impressed with the 2.0s.’ – u/shanananan71
‘I have V-trails (the originals and one pair of the 2.0). I wear them for snow and slushy ice sort of conditions. They are great. The only thing I don’t like is that the sharp lugs come up around the big toe and I kick my ankle and cut it open! I take a razor and slice off the sharpest part. There’s no need for the lugs to come up so high. Other than that, I’ve been through 2 pair (over 1000 miles combined) and I bought the 2.0’s without reservation. The TrekSports are nice too. I have those for mixed pavement conditions.’ – u/bonzai2010
2. Merrel Trail Glove 7
If you are into minimalist shoes AND are environmentally conscious, the Merrel Trail Glove 7 is the right fit for you. That pun was 100% intentional and we are not sorry about it. Merrel’s commitment to the environment has been shown through these trail-hardy minimalist shoes.
Catering to the demands of the modern trail, the Trail Glove 7 boasts an improved fit and elevated abrasion resistance ensuring that it not only matches the expectations of a minimalist enthusiast but also surpasses the Trail Glove 6 by a big margin. Just what a sequel is supposed to be.
Moving on to the environmental aspect, the upper is constructed from 65% recycled breathable mesh material, providing optimal ventilation to keep your feet cool and comfortable even during demanding activities. Now the Trail Glove 7 also features an arch-cradling support zone in the midfoot, enhancing the shoe’s capacity to mimic the foot’s inherent motion while providing a touch more support and cushioning compared to its predecessors.
This midfoot section is known as BLOOM® performance midsole foam and it is crafted from algae biomass, contributing to the transformation of green water into clean water during its production process. 100% recycled laces and 40% recycled breathable mesh lining along with the BLOOM performance midsole align perfectly with the shoe’s dedication to treading lightly on the environment.
Since there is slight cushioning at the midsole, some may argue that it lacks the flat sole typically required for a minimalist shoe. We believe the Trail Glove 7 is excellent for beginners as it is a little easygoing at the sole of your feet and it acts as the perfect footwear if you want to get into uncharted territories of a minimalist shoe lifestyle.
The Trail Glove 7 is available in men’s as well as women’s.
Here’s what Redditors have to say about the Merrel Trail Glove 7:
‘I’ve been playing in Merrel trail glove 5s which are minimalist but not completely barefoot. I came from Addidas Terexs. Personally I love the minimalist shoe for disc golf and don’t have any issues walking/hiking. The actual shoe grip isn’t as good but my natural foot grip is better.’ – u/JimmyB_819
‘I use the trail gloves for rougher/wetter days and the vapor gloves for smoother terrain. They both work better and have helped my footwork improve over time. I’ve also used lone peak altras but their lack of durability left a lot to be desired, as well they also felt bulky to me. Barefoot is definitely a game changer for me’ – u/Ricapotamuses
‘I use “zero drop” “barefoot” Merrell sneakers, their Trail Glove trail running line. They last not quite a year with similar usage to yours. Cushion compression isn’t an issue since these are “barefoot”. But you have to be ok with that style of sneaker.
I had similar shoes from Xero, but those lasted about 6 months. The Merrell shoes are built better.
The failure mode is small holes being worn through the sole, and then my feet get wet walking on damp sidewalks. The Merrell soles are from Vibram and seem to last longer than the Xero soles.’ – [u/deleted]
3. Xero Shoes Minimalist Mesa Trail Running Shoe
If you are looking for minimalist shoes that don’t stand out a bit too much, the Xero Mesa Trail Running shoe is the one for you. We completely understand the nature of all these minimalist shoes and how they stand out visually from the others. And we also understand how tiring it can be to get unsolicited attention and questions regarding your shoes when you are just trying to mind your own business and enjoying your walk. The Xero Mesa Trail’s unique design helps the shoe blend in easily, not looking any more different than your regular conventional shoe.
The Xero Mesa Trail is for those seeking both speed and comfort. Its revolutionary blend of lightweight design, comfort, and performance, is built for when you’re tackling rugged terrains or enjoying a leisurely jog through the great outdoors. The shoe’s focus on grip and comfort is evident in its construction, featuring a flexible sole that supports your foot’s inherent movement. Embedded with a BareFoam layer, it provides that extra cushioning for enhanced comfort during your runs.
To boost proper posture, balance, and agility while delivering supreme comfort, The Mesa Trail’s Xero Drop sole is a non-elevated heel that is very flexible and complements the overall BareFoam layer design. With these shoes, you will be able to feel every crevice and coarse rock without hurting yourself one bit.
Here’s what Redditors had to say about the Xero Mesa Trail Running Shoes:
‘These are absolutely brilliant shoes. I did a 60km technical trail run in them a couple weeks ago and 30km training in them yesterday. Never any leg/knee/foot pain. Just my big toes are beat up because the toe caps are very light duty and I tend to drag my feet a little near the end of my runs and I end up kicking rocks and roots pretty good.’ – u/ReferHvacGuy
‘I love these. I use them for golf and they’re just fantastic. If you’re 100% new to minimalist shoes, I’d start by just walking/hiking in them. If you eventually want to run in them, I’d start very small and work up to it.’ – u/GJW2019
‘Ran a 50k in Xero Mesa Trails without any issues. Attempted 50 miler a couple weeks ago in same shoes and pulled out at about 42 miles in bc my ankles stopped working. Don’t think the shoe is really to blame there as much as poor mechanics. I have another 50k in September and plan to use Xero Mesa Trail again. One call out though is the insole did start to ride up and that caused a lot of issues. Definitely going to need to shoe goo it before the next one.’ – u/pillowfighter11
4. Merrel Vapor Glove 6
Merrel’s Trail Glove is notorious for it’s cushioning. However, the Vapor Glove 6 is built to bridge the shortcomings of the Trail Glove. The sole having minimum cushioning, the Vapor Glove 6 are meant for seasoned minimalists. If you have been using minimalist shoes from quite some time and you absolutely hate padding on your soles, the Vapor Glove 6 are right pair for you.
While it ditches the midfoot support found in the Trail Glove, it offers a responsive and flexible grip on both wet and dry surfaces with its Vibram rubber outsole. You can now go running or for long walks on the beach with the Vapor Glove 6. Also, while its 2mm thickness may not be impervious to sharp rocks, it affords a level of protection sufficient for traversing the beach’s terrain strewn with shells and pebbles.
Delving into its features, the Vapor Glove 6 boasts a breathable mesh and TPU upper that guarantees aeration, keeping your feet refreshed even during the most arduous runs. The incorporation of 100% recycled laces proves Merrell’s commitment to sustainability, while the stretch collar facilitates effortless donning and doffing. The breathable mesh lining, composed of 40% recycled material, mirrors this sustainability mission. The integrated EVA foam insole, also partially composed of recycled material (30%), cushions each step without compromising the shoe’s minimalistic appeal.
Also, the Merrel Vapor Glove 6 are some of the cheapest minimalist shoes you can get your hands on. These pair of shoes sell for less than 100 dollars on Amazon (at the time of publication). They are available in men’s and women’s.
Here’s what Redditors have to say about Merrel Vapor Glove 6:
‘I’ve been running with the Vapor gloves since the 1st version. That’s close to 10 years. Versions 1-4 were all decent, but I would say that all of them had the strengths and weaknesses with no clear advantage between the generations. When v5 came out, I finally felt like this is truly the best version of the shoe they ever made. I absolutely love the v5 and literally stocked up on several pairs of this version to last me for some years’ – u/Bleue_Jerboa
‘I only use them on trail run. I’m really liking it so far. I can’t comment on longevity as I only have about 30 miles on them. It still looks like new. I haven’t experience with little rocks going inside the shoe thanks to the sock-like opening design. The sole is very thin and yes, you will feel all the ground. I found my feet had gotten slightly bigger (or swollen) even since I transition to barefoot “type” shoes.
I highly recommend them if you are looking into barefoot shoe. They are reasonable priced especially when they are on sales.’ – u/nimizng
‘I think the Vapor Gloves are very good. They are not the widest, but still noticeably wider than conventional shoes. They are very thin and flat.
At only 50 EUR, I would try them. A nice affordable introduction to minimalist shoes and they are worn by many in this sub.’ – u/gobluetwo
5. Topo Athletic ST-4 Running Shoes
The ‘ST’ in the name stands for Speed Trainer, and these shoes live up to that name. From running to agility training, from weight lifting to other athletic pursuits, the Topo Athletic ST-4 shoes will have you performing to your absolute best. Not only do they help you with efficiency but also keep your feet free and let you live that minimalist footwear lifestyle.
Weighing a mere 7.3 ounces for a men’s size 9, the ST-4 shoes maintain their lightweight profile. With a 16mm midsole that effectively cushions your foot against the ground impact, these shoes’ internal support skeleton, combined with strategic light overlays, offers just the right amount of structure to the upper, ensuring stability and support while promoting natural movement.
Crafted from lightweight and breathable materials, the ST-4 shoes provide a ‘second skin’ fit that’s comfortable even during extended wear. The incorporation of an Ortholite footbed not only adds an extra layer of underfoot comfort but also ensures your feet stay fresh, even during the most demanding activities.
The 0mm heel-to-toe drop design promotes a more biomechanically efficient stride, enhancing both performance and comfort. The mesh upper, adorned with printed overlays, strikes a balance between breathability and durability, making sure that your feet are firm on the ground.
Here’s what Redditors have to say about Topo Athletic ST-4 Running Shoes:
‘I come from having run mostly in Altra One 2.5s and Merrell Bare Access. Finding the Altras a little too squishy as you say, I was searching for something to replace the very responsive, firmer, and unfortunately discontinued 14 mm Merrells. I recently picked up the ST-4’s and have been quite enjoying them. I’ve not run more than 30 miles in them, so can’t say anything about quality, but so far I do like the lock-in of the heel – felt like I was sliding around a bit more in the Altras.’ – u/seeparrun
‘Just bought them yesterday! Haven’t run in them but could pass them up. Good lock in the rear of the shoe for a narrow foot runner yet foot shaped in the front with plenty of room for the toes. I’m usually a 10.5 but was able to buy size 10 in these. This shoe is so light!!!’ – u/JBrady666
6. Joomra Cross Trainer Zero Drop
Available exclusively on Amazon, The Joomra Cross Trainer Zero Drop shoes are a remarkable footwear option designed to provide comfort, flexibility, and support for those seeking a more natural and minimalist walking or training experience. They are especially perfect for you if you are starting out with minimalist footwear and are looking for something cheap and durable.
The rubber sole of Joomra Cross Trainer is pretty versatile with excellent traction and durability, making it suitable for various terrains and activities. The upper of the shoe is crafted using a combination of knit and mesh materials. This choice of materials has several advantages, including lightweight construction, breathability, and flexibility. The knit and mesh upper allows air to circulate within the shoe, keeping your feet cool and comfortable even during extended periods of wear. Moreover, the flexible response of the upper ensures that your feet can move naturally, adapting to your stride with ease.
But what makes these pair stand out from all the shoes we have gone through so far is the ability to remove the insoles. A simple yet very practical feature that no one seemed to think of. These removable insoles of the Joomra Cross Trainer Zero Drop shoes provide added arch support without causing excessive pressure. This feature is crucial for individuals with varying arch types, as it promotes comfort and reduces the risk of discomfort during extended wear. Also, the design of the insoles helps distribute w
eight evenly over the ball of the feet, enhancing stability and preventing fatigue.
And lastly, Joomra Cross trainers come with zero-drop minimal rubber outsole. The zero-drop design means that the heel and forefoot of the shoe are at the same height, mimicking the natural position of the foot when standing barefoot. This design encourages a more neutral alignment of the body and reduces the risk of strain on the lower back and legs.
Here’s what Redditors have to say about the Joomra Cross Trainer Zero Drop Shoes:
‘I’ve just bought several pairs to test out (Joomra, Tsla, Whitin, Xero, and even Fitkicks). I’m still waiting for some of them to arrive, but I’ve gotten the Joomra’s and my first impression is that they’re really good for the price. They look like perfectly normal shoes, and fit my wide feet very well. The insoles, which have a small amount of arch support, are removable (though my arches are soo high that I don’t feel them either way). The upper is just a mesh knit – it seems sturdy enough for a casual/walking shoe, but I’m not sure how long it would hold up as a running shoe.’ – u/AkakuBen
‘I finally followed better advice and swapped to a completely minimalist shoe. I chose a pair of joomras off amazon for like $40 and after my first run my calves and ankles ached with finally being used/engaged like they should be.
I’ve never looked back and haven’t rolled an ankle since. If you’re having ankle weakness, you need to let those stabilizing muscles actually develop.’ – u/MaineSky
‘JOOMRA Mens minimalist shoes are like $60, have a wide toebox for comfort and are excellent for lifting. I’ve deadlifted in the 450 range with no noticeable compression, my coach has done 700+ in these shoes and swears by them. Durable, but cheap enough to buy multiple pairs if you decide to take advantage of all their color options.’ – u/Ordinary-Commercial9
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Last update on 2023-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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