The Best Barefoot Shoes for Walking or Running (2024)

You were born barefoot, and a growing body of evidence suggests you should have stayed that way. The technology and padding of the modern shoe protect your feet, but protection isn't always what you want. Feet were made to stretch, flex, roll, and bend, and letting them do what they evolved to do can reduce impact injuries and provide a host of other benefits.

That said, please do not buy a pair of these barely there shoes and start walking or running the way you always have. That won't work, and it can lead to injuries. You need to ease into all things barefoot-related, and to some degree you need to relearn how to walk and run. In this guide, we've got advice on making the transition from padded shoes to “barefoot shoes” (also known as minimalist or zero-drop shoes), and we've rounded up our favorites. They're as close as you can get to achieving that barefoot sensation without running afoul of “No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service” signs.

Be sure to check out our other buying guides, including our Best Running Gear and Best Snow Gear roundups.

Updated October 2023: We've added the latest Xero Mesa Trail shoes, a new pair of Fivefingers, and Vivobarefoot's new all-weather models. We've also update prices and links throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com and our print magazine (if you'd like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

We love to wear stockings and tights, but hate dealing with tears. These ones stand up to pulling, tugging, and even cat claws.

If you want a massage gun but don’t want to pay Theragun prices—or maybe you just want different features and attachments—then get one of these picks for soothing sore muscles.

If you've ever looked at your dog's bed and wished you had one of those for you, here's a deal to take advantage of.

These wireless buds have quality sound and plenty of extras for under $100

Keep your phone, tablet, laptop, and other electronics running with these handheld power banks.

The gaming industry has been dropping hit after hit, but we have a running list of titles we can’t wait to play.

The elderly are particularly vulnerable to subscription scams and aggressive tech upselling. Here’s how to get your family the services and devices they need.

The right shelter can make a big difference in how comfortable you are outdoors. Here are the ones we’ve tested and love.