What to Look Out for When Buying Your First Barefoot Shoes

Barefoot shoes have become increasingly popular in recent years – and for good reason. These shoes allow your feet to move naturally, almost as if you were walking barefoot, while still providing protection from rough surfaces. However, when buying your first pair, there are several important factors to consider to ensure your chosen footwear truly supports the health of your feet. We're here to guide you through it all.

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1. Choosing the Right Size – It’s Not Just About Length!

When it comes to barefoot shoes, choosing the correct size is crucial. The shape and dimensions of the shoe significantly affect comfort and the natural movement of your foot.

Length

The internal length of the shoe should always be at least 6–12 mm longer than your foot. This extra space is referred to as "toe space" and ensures your toes can move and spread freely while walking.

• Lace-up shoes: We recommend adding 9–12 mm to your foot length.

• Slip-on shoes, ballerinas, moccasins: These can’t be adjusted as easily, so we recommend about 5 mm of extra space to prevent your heel from slipping out.

• Sandals or open-toed shoes: In these cases, 0–5 mm of extra length is usually enough, as your toes won’t hit the front of the shoe.

If you visit our store, we’ll measure your foot length precisely using a specialized measuring device.

Width

Barefoot shoes should never squeeze your toes. The shoe’s width must match the natural shape of your foot. If your little toes are sticking out or pressure points are painful, the shoe is likely too narrow.

As a general rule, we suggest choosing shoes that are 2–5 mm wider than your foot to allow your toes to spread comfortably inside.

There are specific considerations that might affect how much extra space you need. We can help you assess the right width in-store as well.

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Foot Shape Types

Different shoe models fit different foot shapes better. It's worth understanding the following types:

• Roman Foot – The first three toes are almost the same length. A wider toe box is necessary, such as styles from Altra or Shapen, or models with an "extra wide" option. Ask in-store for availability.

• Greek Foot – The second toe is longer than the big toe. In this case, the toe box must not be too narrow or low. The best match depends on your individual foot and the shoe model — we’re happy to help you find the right fit in person.

• Egyptian Foot – The toes gradually shorten from the big toe to the little toe. This is the most common shape, and most barefoot shoe models are designed to accommodate it. Feel free to browse our collection!

You can read more [in this article] about how to measure your foot correctly.

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Foot Deformities

If you have any foot conditions such as hammer toes, bunions, or heel spurs, it’s even more important to choose the right width and material:

• Bunions (Hallux Valgus): Choose a wide toe box made from soft, flexible material to avoid pressure on the big toe joint. Also, watch out for seams or stiff glue points in the front.

• Hammer toes: Make sure the internal height of the shoe is sufficient so that the top of your toes doesn’t rub against the upper material.

• High instep: Sometimes, the shoe may feel too tight across the top of your foot. In this case, you can use a thin, removable insole to reduce the internal volume, or choose a model specifically designed for high insteps.

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2. Choosing Materials – Leather, Textile, or Synthetics?

Barefoot shoes come in various materials, each with its pros and cons:

• Leather or vegetable-tanned leather: Durable and molds well to the foot over time, but it’s less breathable and may take time to break in.

• Textile (e.g., cotton, canvas): Lightweight and breathable, but less water-resistant.

• Synthetic materials: Often water-repellent and sportier in look, but not always as stretchable or breathable as natural materials.

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3. First Use – Don’t Dive In Headfirst!

A common mistake is wearing your new barefoot shoes all day right from the start. This can place too much strain on your feet, especially if you’ve been wearing stiff-soled or heeled shoes before.

What to keep in mind during the first few uses:

• Gradually increase wear time: Start with 30–60 minutes a day and observe how your body responds.

• Be mindful of your muscles: Barefoot shoes activate foot muscles that may not have been used much. Soreness or slight fatigue is normal – just don’t push too hard.

• Use insoles if needed: If the shoe feels too roomy or you want more comfort, a thin, soft insole (leather or foam) can help ease the transition, especially if you have a high instep or flat feet.

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4. Transitioning – Patience, Awareness, and Movement

Wearing barefoot shoes is not just a shoe change – it’s a movement quality shift. Walking barefoot helps strengthen the arch, activates deep muscles, and improves posture – but it takes time and body awareness.

Transition tips:

• Do foot-strengthening exercises: Try toe lifts, heel raises, walking on soft surfaces, or balance work on pebbles.

• Watch your posture: Barefoot walking naturally encourages better alignment – the right shoes can support that.

• Change your habits too: Don’t just change your shoes. Avoid long walks on hard pavement during the first few weeks.