Is it possible to have too much cushioning in your hiking boots? For a while, I’ve been thinking about swapping my regular hiking boots for a pair of barefoot shoes, and I finally did it after testing no less than 14 pairs.
Through my tests, I discovered a new way of hiking, which is more rewarding, although it took me a while to get accustomed to walking barefoot again.
Today, I want to share this experience with you, so keep reading to learn my recommendations on the best barefoot hiking boots for both beginner and advanced barefoot hikers.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest
#2ND BEST CHOICE
Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion
#3RD BEST CHOICE
ALTRA Lone Peak 7 Trail
Our Top Recommended Barefoot Hiking Boots of 2023
1) Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc
The leather uppers are soft and bend naturally, conforming to your foot’s anatomy, and the sole has just the right thickness to reduce fatigue on rocky trails.
The Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc combines the light design of a minimalist hiking boot with a performant sole designed in collaboration with Michelin into a reliable model ready to tackle both light hiking and rougher paths.
It took me a few hours to break these hiking shoes in, but once they molded to my feet, they felt almost like a pair of trail shoes – super lightweight and comfortable.
While this isn’t a completely waterproof boot (it has no waterproof lining), its water resistance is impressive.
From my experience with the Tracker Forest Esc, the naturally water-resistant leather repels water, and the seam-sealed inner bootie is tough enough to keep your feet dry on rainy or snowy roads.
I wouldn’t recommend crossing a creek in these hiking shoes though, as you’ve got good chances of getting wet.
On the good side, the Tracker Forest Esc is a boot that offers good ankle support and is also breathable, so you won’t experience sweaty feet during your adventures.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 2 lb. 6.8 oz.
- Waterproof: Water resistant
- Upper Material: Wildhide leather
PROS
CONS
2) Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion
From the beginning, these minimalist hiking boots felt flexible and comfortable, allowing me to sense the terrain under my feet.
With their breathable mesh upper and flexible sole, these lightweight hiking shoes from Xero are a good choice if you are looking for a model somewhere between a premium trail running shoe and a traditional hiking boot.
But the Xcursion Fusion boots have an embedded TrailFoam layer that reduces the shock, making them some of the best shoes for a beginner who’s never worn hiking shoes before.
I appreciated the 3.5mm-deep lugs that give this vegan hiking footwear a good grip in muddy conditions and the waterproof membrane, which proved useful through a series of puddles that came my way.
However, since this model has a low-cut design, it is a good choice only if you are heading on easier routes.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 4.96 oz. (women’s 7), 1 lb. 10 oz. (men’s 9)
- Waterproof: yes
- Upper Material: Synthetic mesh/synthetic textile/welded TPU overlay
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3) ALTRA Lone Peak 7 Trail
Some of the top in the industry for frequent hiking, the ALTRA Lone Peak 7 Trail is equipped for various activities and can easily tackle rough terrain.
Besides the zero-drop design that kept my feet in a natural position, this minimalist hiking shoe pair provided me with enough support while descending on a steep road section, where the MaxTrack grippy sole clawed well on the surface.
The rock plate was also very useful in protecting my toes, and I was quite surprised to see that the shoes remained lightweight while including toe protection and good midsole padding.
Unfortunately, after walking a few minutes in the ALTRA Lone Peak 7, it became clear to me that they were too loose in the toe box area and gave me blisters, but ordering a smaller size could easily solve this problem.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 2.4 oz. (women), 1 lb. 6 oz. (men’s)
- Waterproof: no
- Upper Material: Mesh
PROS
CONS
4) Xero Shoes TerraFlex II
They are lightweight and come with a mesh upper that provides good ventilation even when your feet begin to swell from too much walking.
A low-cut pair of Xero shoes, the TerraFlex are among the best minimalist hiking shoes for warm weather.
As I trekked in these minimalist hiking boots for half a day, I noticed that there’s enough padding in the sole to help you get accustomed to barefoot walking, but not as much as in traditional hiking boots.
For me, the extra padding was exactly what I needed, but these great shoes also come with a set of insoles that can provide extra comfort until your articulations start to strengthen.
Woefully, the Xero Shoes ThierraFlex is not a waterproof barefoot hiking boot, so you’ll get wet feet if you step into a deeper puddle. But from my personal experience with these barefoot boots, there’s plenty of ventilation to dry easily on a warm day.
If waterproof is something you look into, check the other models or our guide where we review and compare the best waterproof hiking boots.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 14 ounces (women’s 7), 1 lb. 2 oz. (men’s 9)
- Waterproof: no
- Upper Material: Mesh and synthetic
PROS
CONS
5) WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner
Equipped with toe bumper protection and a vegan-friendly synthetic upper, these barefoot boots performed well on my durability tests, showing minimal abrasion marks at the end of the hike.
The WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner stay within a budget price range while offering a great grip on rough terrain and a minimalist design, ideal for those looking for a non-elevated model.
The insoles felt a bit too rough, but nothing a pair of thicker socks wouldn’t solve.
The wide toe box was very comfortable, although, for hikers with narrow feet, it may prove a bit too wide. In this case, the solution is to order a half-size down.
I wished these barefoot hiking shoes had a waterproof membrane, as that would have made them sturdy enough to use well into the autumn season, but at least the uppers are breathable and dry quickly in case you step into a puddle.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 8.64 oz.
- Waterproof: no
- Upper Material: Synthetic fabric
PROS
CONS
6) Lems Boulder Boot
If you plan on taking a hike during the colder months, these Lems Boulder boots designed with leather uppers and zero-drop soles will offer you the extra warmth you need.
While a bit pricier, these are some of the best minimalist hiking shoes for comfort, with basically no break-in period.
If you have wider feet like me, you will immediately notice the difference between a truly wide toe box that allows you to keep your toes in a neutral position and a regular one.
The PU insole has wicking properties and offers additional comfort if you are just getting accustomed to a zero-drop model of hiking boots. I removed them after a few days, as I felt they were making my Boulder boots feel less barefoot.
However, while I appreciated the lightweight design of these minimalist hiking shoes, my tests on rougher terrain revealed that the IBR outsole is not aggressive enough for a serious hiking adventure.
You can instead use this barefoot hiking boot for trail running or trekking on lighter trails.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): 1 lb. 0 oz. (women’s 11.5), 1 lb. 2 oz. (men’s 9)
- Waterproof: no
- Upper Material: Leather + 1200 denier nylon
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7) SoftStar Switchback Minimalist
This vegan option enveloped my feet perfectly from the first try, and I never had any blistering incidents, not even after hours of wearing these hiking boots.
These SoftStar barefoot hiking boots are popular among beginner barefoot hikers (and not only) due to their extremely wide toe box.
They have a strong sole with a 6mm-deep Vibram outsole that offers a superior grip compared to most barefoot boot options on the market.
The stiff sole also works better on rocks, lowering their impact on your toes and heels. However, this also means that the barefoot feel is reduced.
One of the downsides of these barefoot hiking boots is the non-stretch upper material. It is waterproof indeed and great in rainy weather, but if you wear them in warmer months, there won’t be too much space for your feet if they swell.
The boots make up through their durability, though, as the SuperFabric used in their construction is resistant to puncture, abrasion, and even stains. To my surprise, I only needed to clean the mud off them, and they looked like new again after a day of pretty heavy hiking.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): N/A
- Waterproof: Water resistant
- Upper Material: SuperFabric®
PROS
CONS
8) Be Lenka Trailwalker 2.0
With a super light design, a flexible sole, breathable uppers, and a great barefoot feel, this model is exactly what you need when heading out for a light walk in the forest.
Once you try a Be Lenka, chances are you’ll always want to have a pair of these minimalist hiking shoes in your closet.
While some users found the Be Lenka Trailwalker 2.0 to be too big for their regular size, for me, they fit true to size. The wide toe box is indeed wide and comfortable, and the lacing system allows you to make the necessary adjustments to avoid blisters.
Plus, there was just enough space left for me to wear socks – two pairs in fact – on chillier days.
The Be Lenka Trailwalker 2.0 are also among the best minimalist hiking shoes for warm months since they have good ventilation and minimal padding, so your feet won’t overheat.
However, you’ll probably need to swap these minimalist hiking boots for a more robust pair if you head out on rough terrain, as the sole doesn’t have a good grip on slippery roads.
Specifications
- Weight (pair): N/A
- Waterproof: Water resistant
- Upper Material: Leather and rubber
PROS
CONS
How To Choose Barefoot Hiking Boots
Let’s dive into our testing procedure and see why we chose these 8 shoes as being the best minimalist hiking shoes in 2023.
1. Material
Material is crucial in minimalist hiking shoes because it determines the level of comfort you will experience while walking on rough terrain.
Materials like high-quality leather, rubber, and mesh are typically used to construct comfortable women’s hiking boots that are durable, waterproof, and airy.
Choosing the right material can help prevent blisters, provide arch support, and give you the stability you need to avoid injuries.
High-quality materials can also improve your grip and reduce the risk of slipping on wet or uneven surfaces.
Among the models on our top, the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc provides the best balance between material resistance ad comfort.
These barefoot hiking boots are equipped with water-resistant leather uppers and have a durable sole that can face even the roughest adventures.
2. Performance
The best minimalist hiking shoes should provide an excellent grip on various surfaces, including slippery rocks and steep terrain.
They should also offer adequate protection for your ankles and toes, allowing you to tackle long distances with ease.
If you are planning to use your new barefoot hiking boot pair on a more challenging route, you should also make sure it allows your feet to breathe and fits well enough to prevent chaffing.
Our favorite in terms of performance is the Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion. With a rubber outsole that has an aggressive lug pattern and a water-resistant membrane, these are the best minimalist hiking shoes for committed hikers ready to head on tough trails.
3. Cost
Investing in a good pair of barefoot hiking boots that will last a long time can save you money in the long run.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that cost should not be the only factor to consider.
You should try to find a balance between cost and quality to ensure a great hiking experience.
A budget pair of barefoot hiking shoes like the Be Lenka Trailwalker 2.0 can be the right choice for light hiking and everyday use, but remember that more heavy-duty outdoor activities require more expensive gear that will offer the right level of comfort and traction.
Now let’s see what hiking boots performed better when it comes to comfort.
4. Comfort
Comfort is important in barefoot hiking boots because it helps to prevent pain and fatigue during your hiking experience.
When you wear shoes that fit poorly or cause you pain, you may develop calluses or even foot injuries.
This can make your hiking trip miserable and even prevent you from continuing.
A well-fitting barefoot hiking boot like the Xero Shoes TerraFlex feels like a second skin, allowing your feet to move naturally.
This flexible shoe model features a wider toe box and removable insoles that allow you to customize the intensity of your barefoot experience.
5. Fit
Unlike traditional hiking boots, barefoot hiking boots have a minimalistic design and lack the padding we’re used to.
This means that if they don’t fit properly, your feet can slide inside the shoes, which can cause blisters and other foot injuries.
Therefore, it’s important to find a pair of barefoot hiking shoes that fit snugly, without being too tight, to ensure a comfortable and safe hiking experience.
While most models on this top have a generous toe box, the best barefoot hiking boots for a snug fit from the start are the Lems Boulder Boots.
You’ll immediately recognize the smooth feel of genuine leather and the importance of having a truly wide toe box that provides just enough toe room to feel like you are walking barefoot.
6. Weight
When it comes to barefoot hiking boots, weight is also an essential factor to consider. Heavy hiking boots can weigh you down and make it more challenging to move around, especially when you’re hiking on rough terrain.
This can quickly tire you out and lead to chaffing and even injuries. Lightweight hiking shoes, on the other hand, allow for better mobility and help reduce fatigue, making it easier for you to enjoy your hike.
If you are looking for an ultra-lightweight shoe, our recommendation is Xero Shoes TerraFlex. Weighing just a bit over 1 pound, these are the best barefoot hiking shoes for longer adventures.
7. Insoles
Insoles are an essential part of barefoot hiking boots because they provide additional padding.
They help absorb shock and reduce the impact on your joints when you’re hiking on rough terrain or rocky trails.
They also provide extra insulation and warmth during colder weather, which is particularly important when you’re walking in minimalist hiking shoes that lack traditional padding.
However, thick insoles can cancel the barefoot feel, so you must decide how much you really need them.
Fortunately, some of the best barefoot hiking boots on the market, like the WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner, come with removable insoles, allowing you to customize the ground feel.
8. Tread
Having good tread on your barefoot hiking boots is essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. The treads on the soles of the boots create friction between your feet and the ground, which prevents slipping and sliding.
This is especially important when you’re hiking because it can help prevent injuries from falls. Plus, having good traction allows you to focus on the beauty of the hike instead of worrying about slipping and falling.
The Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc, with their Michelin sole, are by far the best barefoot hiking boots on our top if you are looking for an aggressive tread pattern.
With deep lugs and the right rigidity for rocky roads, this barefoot shoe pair will keep up with you when the path becomes more challenging.
9. Toe Protection
Toe protection helps to safeguard your toes from accidental bumps, scrapes, and injury when trekking on rocky, uneven terrain.
The human foot has over 26 bones, and each one of them is crucial to support our body weight and balance.
Any injury to these bones or toes can lead to severe discomfort and, in some cases, even permanent damage.
The best minimalist hiking shoes for toe protection on our top are the ALTRA Lone Peak 5 Trail, which comes with a rock plate designed to shield your toes from rocks and other obstacles you may encounter.
10. Ventilation
When you’re hiking, your feet can get sweaty and hot, which can lead to chafing, fungus, and other foot problems.
Ventilation helps prevent these issues by allowing moisture to evaporate and keeping you comfortable.
Good ventilation also prevents odor buildup, so your boots won’t stink.
Usually, barefoot hiking boots that come with a breathable mesh upper are more suitable for the hot summer months.
We experienced the best breathability in the Xero Shoes TerraFlex, which proved very reliable on long and tiring expeditions.
Plus, the breathable material in the uppers also dries fast, which is another plus if you step into a puddle.
Comparison Table
| BOOT | PRICE | WATERPROOF | WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest | Check on Amazon» | No | 2 lb. 6.8 oz. |
| Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion | $150 REI» Check on Amazon» | Yes | 1 lb. 4.96 oz. |
| Altra Lone Peak 7 | $150 REI» $150 Backcountry» Check on Amazon» | No | 1 lb. 2.4 oz. |
| Xero Shoes TerraFlex II | $110 REI» Check on Amazon» | No | 1 lb. 2 oz. |
| WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner | Check on Amazon» | No | 1 lb. 8.64 oz. |
| Lems Boulder Boot | $155 Backcountry» | No | 1 lb. 2 oz. |
| SoftStar Switchback Minimalist | $245 Website» | No | – |
| Be Lenka Trailwalker 2.0 | $179 Website» | No | – |
Related Articles:
Barefoot vs Minimalist Shoes vs Zero Drop (Key Differences)
Barefoot Shoes
Barefoot shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of walking or running barefoot. They have little to no padding, a wide toe box, and flexible soles that allow your feet to move and flex naturally.
The idea behind Barefoot shoes is to promote a more natural gait and strengthen the muscles in your feet, which can lead to improved balance.
PROS
CONS
Minimalist Shoes
Minimalist boots are a step up from barefoot shoes, offering some shielding from sharp objects while still allowing for a natural gait and improved foot strength. They’re usually lightweight and flexible, with a better ground feel than traditional shoes.
PROS
CONS
Zero-Drop Shoes
Zero-drop shoes are similar to minimalist footwear but with the added benefit of encouraging a midfoot strike and better alignment. This can help reduce the risk of injuries and improve overall foot function.
PROS
CONS
What Else Did We Consider When Making This List?
We know that even with the most detailed descriptions, it can be difficult to find barefoot footwear that is cut to your feet. This is why we also took into account aspects like warranty, shipping, and what other users say about the models we tested.
Feedback
We were interested to find how other users rated the boots and what they had to say about their performance, comfort, and fit.
Shipping
We know that a pair of boots that costs too much to be delivered or arrives in a ridiculous amount of time is not a viable product, so we only selected accessible products that are easy to order and have good chances of arriving on time.
Warranty
Lastly, when you pay good money for a barefoot hiking shoe pair, you should have a guarantee that you receive what you expect. That’s why we included only reliable shoe brands that stand behind their products.
Our #1 Pick
While I enjoyed testing all the barefoot hiking shoes on this top, the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc is by far my favorite.
This tough barefoot shoe helped me transition to barefoot hiking without putting too much pressure on my feet thanks to its thicker sole.
While it is not a fully waterproof model, the Vivobarefoot Tracker Forest Esc performed great in the rain. The Michelin sole provided great traction on the mud while the gusseted tongue kept water away.
Adding the wide toe box and excellent ground feel, I can only say that this hiking footwear is the ideal balance between comfort and natural foot movement.
FAQs
Hiking in barefoot shoes can be more soliciting, but it is generally safe. You will need to pay more attention to sharp rocks and uneven surfaces, as you will be feeling everything through the thin sole, and you may experience calf pain until you adapt to this type of minimalist shoe.
But if you are not heading out to technical terrain, using them is not risky.
Zero-drop shoes and barefoot shoes are similar but not exactly the same. Zero-drop shoes have a flat sole from heel to toe, unlike traditional shoes with a higher heel, but they may have a cushioned sole, compared to barefoot shoes, which aim to mimic walking barefoot.
Starting barefoot hiking requires some preparation. The first step is to select the right pair of barefoot hiking boots and choose a route that is suitable for barefoot hiking. Begin with short hikes on easy, flat terrain, and gradually increase the difficulty and distance as your feet adjust.
While barefoot hiking shoes offer some benefits, they can also have side effects. Some people may experience blisters or pain when transitioning to barefoot shoes, as the feet need time to get accustomed to the new way of walking.
Additionally, minimalist hiking boots offer less padding than traditional shoes, which can lead to increased stress on the ankles, and knees.
While barefoot hiking shoes can be a good option for some people, they are not necessarily healthier for everyone. Wearing minimalist hiking shoes can help improve your balance and strengthen your feet and lower legs. However, if you have plantar fasciitis or flat feet, we recommend consulting a podiatrist first, as wearing minimalist hiking shoes may make your symptoms worse.
While some podiatrists may recommend barefoot shoes for certain individuals, such as those with strong, healthy feet who engage in activities that require a lot of foot strength and flexibility, others may caution against them, particularly for those with foot problems or conditions.
Hiking barefoot or with barefoot shoes can be good for people who want to feel more connected to nature and have more flexibility when they walk. However, it can take some time to get used to walking without the protection of thick-soled hiking boots.
No, minimalist hiking shoes typically do not require a break-in period. Their design focuses on providing immediate comfort and flexibility, allowing hikers to wear them right out of the box without the need for extensive break-in time.
Minimalist trail runners differ from traditional running shoes in their design and features. They typically have a lower heel-to-toe drop, lighter weight, thinner sole, and less cushioning. They promote a more natural foot movement and a closer connection to the ground.
