Our Favorite Barefoot & Minimalist Footwear for 2025

Minimalist shoes are more popular than ever in 2025, thanks to their blend of natural movement, comfort, and modern style. Barefoot and minimalist shoes offer a way to move more naturally, letting your feet flex and feel the ground while still providing some protection.  They’re especially loved by runners, fitness fans, and anyone interested in improving their foot health. If you’re looking to free your feet and move the way nature intended, we took a look at these six brands that stand out for their innovation, fit, and commitment to healthy footwear.

Xero Shoes Scrambler Trail Low WP – Waterproof Hiking Shoe

Xero Shoes continues to lead the minimalist movement with a wide range of options for running, training, and everyday wear. Their shoes are known for a roomy toe box, zero-drop sole, and impressive flexibility. This year, Xero has introduced new models like the X1, a lightweight barefoot basketball shoe, and updated classics like the HFS and Dillon Leather. All Xero Shoes are designed to promote natural movement and come with a robust sole warranty, making them a favorite for athletes and casual wearers alike.

 

Saguaro Fast Ⅰ Aqua - Barefoot Water Shoes

Saguaro offers an affordable and stylish selection of barefoot shoes for men, women, and kids. Their lineup includes casual sneakers, hiking shoes, and water shoes, all designed with a flexible sole and wide toe box for a true barefoot feel. Saguaro shoes are lightweight, breathable, and perfect for anyone who wants to connect with the ground while enjoying everyday activities or outdoor adventures.

 

Feelgrounds Move Horizon

Feelgrounds is known for creating minimalist shoes that combine fashion and function. Their designs feature a wide toe box, zero drop, and a thin, flexible sole for maximum ground feel. With options like the Originals, Droptop, and Highrise, Feelgrounds offers something for every season and style. These shoes are easy to dress up or down, making them a go-to choice for anyone who wants comfort without sacrificing looks.

Vivobarefoot Primus Flow Womens

Vivobarefoot remains a top choice for those who want technical performance and everyday versatility. Their shoes are praised for their spacious toe boxes, thin soles, and durable construction. Whether you’re running, hiking, or just walking around town, Vivobarefoot shoes help strengthen your feet and improve balance by allowing natural movement and ground connection. Vivo shoes has proven to be the most durable minimalist shoe on our list.

 

Grounded People ALL SEASON SNEAKERS

Grounded People specializes in sustainable, vegan minimalist shoes that are as ethical as they are comfortable. Made from recycled and organic materials, their shoes feature a flexible fit and naturally shaped toe box. Grounded People is perfect for those who want to make eco-friendly choices without compromising on style or foot health.

 

Origo Shoes The Huarache Wide by Anya

Origo Shoes delivers minimalist footwear with a focus on ethical production and everyday comfort. Their shoes are built with wide toe boxes, zero-drop soles, and flexible construction, making them great for both work and play. Origo’s commitment to transparency and environmentally friendly materials makes them a standout for shoppers who want to feel good about their footwear choices.

Minimalist Shoe Comparison Table

Brand	Best For	Key Features	Sustainability Focus
Xero Shoes	Running, training, all-purpose	Roomy toe box, zero-drop, ultra-flexible	Yes (long-lasting, some vegan models)
Saguaro	Casual, hiking, water	Lightweight, wide toe box, affordable	Yes (eco materials)
Feelgrounds	Everyday, style	Wide toe box, thin sole, versatile fabrics	Improving
Vivobarefoot	Outdoor, running, hiking	Spacious fit, thin sole, durable	B Corp Certified
Grounded People	Casual, ethical shoppers	Vegan, recycled materials, flexible fit	Yes (vegan, recycled)
Origo Shoes	Everyday, ethical buyers	Wide, zero-drop, flexible, casual look	Yes (ethical, transparent)

Recent market research shows that the minimalist footwear (barefoot shoes) segment is experiencing steady growth, with compound annual growth rate (CAGR) estimates generally ranging between 5.1% and 5.5% over the next several years. Minimalist shoes in 2025 offer more options than ever for every lifestyle and value set. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy professional, or an eco-conscious shopper, these brands deliver comfort, style, and a natural feel-helping you put your best (bare) foot forward all year long.