Are you ready to take your workouts to the next level? There are some incredible shoes available on the market designed specifically for barefoot training. These special shoes offer an incredible level of support and comfort even for the most intense workout or exercise regime. Whether you're looking for protection from harsh terrain, increased mobility or just total barefoot freedom, these are the best barefoot training shoes out there and can help you achieve your fitness goals in a breeze. Read on to discover all that this type of shoe has to offer!
This article is all about barefoot training shoes. We also created a list of the best barefoot running shoes on Amazon, you can find it here, and a list of the best barefoot shoes on Amazon, find it here.
What are training shoes
As found on the website of the American Academy for Podiatric Sports Medicine: "Training shoes are a category of footwear designed to provide protection for a variety of fitness activities. They are kind-of a hybrid of a running shoe and a court shoe." So in the world of barefoot shoes that would translate to a hybrid of a barefoot running shoe and a barefoot court shoe.
How we select the best barefoot training shoes
Finding the perfect barefoot training shoes for your needs can be an incredibly daunting task with so many options available.
You don't want to choose a shoe just for its looks or price tag— you need one that will fit your individual needs and help you reach your fitness goals.
That's why we've done the heavy lifting for you! Our list features a comprehensive selection of barefoot training shoes that are sure to suit any activity level or fashion preference. Find the perfect shoe with ease thanks to our expertly curated list.
Why these are awesome
Introducing Xero Shoes Prio—the shoe that does it all! The Prio is an innovative hybrid model designed for maximum performance and durability no matter the activity. With many different color options available you can easily find the perfect look to match any outfit.
What really sets the Prio apart is its special design which offers something for everyone. Whether you are:
- running on a hard surface,
- trekking across a trail,
- esting your strength in Crossfit or weightlifting,
- or just out and about walking around town
- the Prio will keep up with you every step of the way.
But that's not even the best part—Xero Shoes stand by their product with a 5,000 mile sole warranty. So when you purchase your pair of Prios, you can do so with peace of mind knowing they are built to last!
Order your Xero Shoes Prio today and take on any terrain in maximum comfort and confidence!
Good for you to know
Looking for a shoe that's comfortable, protective and vegan-friendly? Look no further; these huarache sandal-inspired shoes with a reflective lacing system and adjustable straps are designed for a perfect fit.
And with its patented FeelTrue sole, yo'll get just the right amount of protection and feedback from the ground to keep your feet and brain happy.
Whether you're out for a jog or running errands around town these shoes are the perfect choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and eco-friendly shoe option.
Sole: 5.5mm, zero drop
Insole: 2mm, removable, zero drop
Toe box Width: Medium
Surface: allround
Level: all
Why these are awesome
The Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO Crosstraining shoes are perfect for taking you through your day in comfort and style. The innovative design features separate toes, giving you the best barefoot experience to keep your feet healthy as well as a very thin and flexible sole to keep you light on your feet.
The XS TREK sole is perfect for a range of activities from indoor sports to trails and urban playgrounds. Plus you'll enjoy maximum articulation and ground feel in every step.
With the light yet simple adjustable upper design these shoes are sure to make your every move easy and enjoyable. Get ready for all kinds of terrain with the Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO Crosstraining shoes!
Good for you to know
When it comes to footwear the upper material plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort, durability, and protection. These shoes are crafted with polyester mesh material that comes with PU film protection and reinforcement. The result is a breathable yet sturdy upper that can withstand the rigors of any terrain.
But that's not all. The shoes also feature a fast lacing system that allows you to quickly adjust the fit as per your preference. What makes them truly stand out though is the XS TREK Compound. Engineered for stability and comfort, it strikes the perfect balance between traction and durability making it responsive in any exercise. Whether you're hitting the trails or the gym these shoes are a reliable companion.
Sole: 3mm, zero drop
Insole: 2mm, not removable, zero drop
Toe box Width: Medium
Surface: all round
Level: Advanced
Why these are awesome
The VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Lite III is the perfect combination of performance and sustainability. Crafted with recycled materials, these shoes are 100% vegan, so you can feel good about being fashion-forward without impacting the environment negatively.
With exceptional ground feel, these sneakers are ideal for gym and road running, I even use them some light trail running. Not to mention, their stylish design makes them the perfect sneaker for everyday wear too! When durability is key and green matters, the VIVOBAREFOOT Primus Lite III is the shoe for you.
Good for you to know
If you're looking for a barefoot shoe that offers a minimalistic feel, the thin sole on this shoe might just be what you need. Measuring at only 3mm, this shoe allows for maximum flexibility and range of motion. Plus, the included 3mm removable insole lets you customize the fit to your liking.
And don't be fooled by the thinness of the sole - it still provides adequate protection for your feet.
This shoe is also wider than your typical barefoot shoe, giving your toes plenty of room to spread out and move naturally. I always wear my toe spacers in these during a run or workout.
So if you're ready to feel more connected to the ground beneath you, give this barefoot shoe a try.
Sole: 3mm, zero drop
Insole: 3mm, removable, zero drop
Toe box Width: Medium/ Wide
Surface: Road, indoor
Level: Advanced
Why these are awesome
Introducing the SAGUARO Gym Exercise Shoes, ideal for anyone looking to take their gym experience up a notch by switching to barefoot shoes!
With these shoes, you'll be able to pair comfort and flexibility in any exercise routine. The upper is made with spandex which provides an adjustable fit and the toe box is wide enough to accommodate any foot shape.
Plus, the price can’t be beaten. At this budget-friendly price point, why not give them a shot? Make your barefoot journey easier than ever with the SAGUARO Gym Exercise Shoes. Try a pair today and feel the difference!
Good for you to know
If you're looking for a pair of barefoot shoes for your sports activities, you might have come across the many options by 'Amazon brands'. However, upon closer inspection, one may find that there are actually only a few models. Despite this, different brands are able to provide their own unique spin on the shoes. The general specifications are fairly similar across brands, with only slight variations in quality.
This was my first barefoot shoe for sports activities such as gym workouts, trail walks and runs. I even used them for gardening, because they are so comfortable.
You might want to replace the insole for optimal comfort, as they come with a small heel raise and some arch support.
Sole: 5mm, zero drop
Insole: 3mm, removable, small heel drop
Toe box Width: Wide
Surface: Road, indoor
Level: Beginner
Why these are awesome
I think these look AWESOME! The design is a well-struck balance between function and style. And they don't look too much like barefoot shoes. Of course, that is my personal opinion.
The VIVOBAREFOOT Geo Racer Knit is the perfect multi-purpose shoe designed to make working out, running errands, or just strolling around town easy and stylish. Its lightweight design allows you to be comfortable no matter what activity you're performing, while the flexible outsole provides optimal grip for stability. The upper is made from a breathable knit fabric that looks great with any outfit – yet stylish enough for a night out.
Good for you to know
The 4mm Active Sole is not as thin as the Primus Lite's but still thin and amazingly flexible.
The engineered knit upper not only delivers premium breathability but also conforms to your foot for a natural and comfortable fit.
What's more, these shoes are made with more sustainable materials that have reduced their impact on the planet.
So, whether you're jogging around the neighborhood, hitting the gym, or running errands, you can stay comfortable and feel good about your choices with this eco-friendly footwear. These can be your casual barefoot shoes as well as your go-to trainers for the gym! Upgrade your shoe game and invest in these awesome-looking, high-performance, environmentally-conscious sneakers.
Sole: 4mm, zero drop
Insole: 3mm, removable, zero drop
Toe box Width: Medium
Surface: Road, indoor
Level: Intermediate
How to determine the right size for your next barefoot training shoes
When it comes to barefoot training shoes, getting the right size is crucial for both comfort and performance. So how do you determine the perfect fit? Start by measuring both of your feet, as they may not be the same size. Next, consider the activities you'll be using the shoes for and the level of impact involved. It's also important to try on different brands and styles to find the right match for your foot shape and arch type. Don't be afraid to walk around and test them out before committing. With a little bit of patience and trial and error, you'll be able to find the perfect size for your next barefoot training shoes.
FAQs about barefoot training shoes
Barefoot training shoes are becoming increasingly popular in the fitness industry, but many people still have questions about them. One common question is whether or not they provide enough support and protection for the feet. While they may not offer the same amount of cushioning as traditional athletic shoes, barefoot training shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of being barefoot while still providing some level of protection. It's also important to note that transitioning to barefoot shoes should be done gradually, as the muscles in your feet and legs need time to adapt to the new style of shoe. Overall, barefoot training shoes can be a great option for those looking to strengthen their feet and improve their overall balance and stability during workouts.
Are barefoot shoes good for the gym?
Absolutely! Barefoot shoes are becoming increasingly popular in the gym because they help to promote better form and posture during exercises.
Barefoot shoes provide zero heel lift, which means that you can squat deeper with less strain on your lower back and knees. This reduces the risk of injury while helping to build stronger muscles throughout your body. Additionally, when wearing barefoot shoes, you have more awareness of the weight shifts in your feet as you move, allowing for stability and effective balance control.
They also provide toe flexibility which is great for deadlifts since it allows a greater range of motion at the ankles and toes for you to get wider stance positions.
Finally, barefoot shoes are good for increasing agility since they force a higher level of proprioception - or body awareness - among users by giving them instant feedback on where their feet need to be placed so they can respond quickly during dynamic movements like jump squats or burpees!
Are barefoot trainers good for you?
Yes, barefoot trainers can be beneficial for your health. Many people may not realize that wearing traditional shoes with built-in cushioning and arch support can actually limit how much you use your feet when you walk or run, which results in weaker muscles and tendons over time.
Barefoot trainers, on the other hand, provide a more natural walking and running experience. They allow your feet to move more naturally, strengthening foot muscles by forcing them to work harder for balance as well as absorbing shock better than traditional shoes would; this helps reduce the risk of injuries such as shin splints or plantar fasciitis caused by weakened muscles.
Additionally, research has shown that people who regularly exercise barefoot, or in barefoot shoes, improve their balance and agility quicker than those who wear shoes with cushioning and arch support.
Overall, training in barefoot shoes is an effective way to strengthen foot muscles while providing additional benefits like improved balance and coordination - both necessary components of overall health!
Can you run in barefoot trainers?
Absolutely! Running in barefoot trainers, or so-called minimalist shoes, is becoming an increasingly popular form of exercise for a number of reasons. A minimalist shoe provide a natural feel to your running experience and promote proper running form and biomechanics.
They also reduce the risk of developing common running injuries such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints because they encourage you to run with a more natural gait pattern that engages multiple muscle groups in the lower part of your body. This helps lessen the stress on the joints from impact forces, allowing you to run further without feeling fatigued quickly.
In addition, many minimalist running shoes feature thinner soles than traditional running shoes which helps protect against debris on trails or roads while still providing optimal ground feedback which can aid in balance control.
Finally, minimalist footwear often weigh less than traditional trainers which can reduce overall fatigue levels over longer distances due to their low center-of-gravity weight distribution – preventing too much emphasis being placed on one area like with heavier footgear.
However, barefoot trainers should be introduced gradually into any regime, as they will not prevent injuries resulting from poor technique or posture while working out that traditional shoes can mitigate against. Those new to this type of training should start to wear barefoot shoes gradually during their workouts and develop an awareness of how their body reacts so that they can adjust accordingly if needed.
Are Nike Metcon barefoot?
No, the Nike Metcon line of shoes are not strictly barefoot.
These are the most important features of barefoot shoes:
- A wide toe box: the Nike Metcon does not have a wider toe box, it is narrow and low volume. This means people with wider or higher volume feet should at least size up or look for an alternative.
- Zero heel to toe drop: the Nike Metcon has a 4mm heel to toe drop. it is less than a lot of other models out there, but it is not zero.
- A thin and flexible sole: the grooved design gives the sole some flexibility, but it is nowhere near the flexibility of a barefoot shoe. The sole is approximately 20mm(!) thick.
- No arch support: these shoes have all different kinds of support, including arch support. This will result in the deterioration of your foot muscles.
- No toe spring: these shoes have a considerate amount of toe spring...
Can I lift weights in barefoot shoes?
Yes, you can lift weights in barefoot shoes. Barefoot shoes are designed specifically to give your feet a natural and lightweight fit which is great for weightlifting activities. The thin soles of the shoe allow greater connection with the ground and provide better stability for dynamic movements such as squats and lunges.
Barefoot shoes reduce joint pain by allowing more even load distribution throughout the foot during exercise, resulting in less fatigue in muscles that normally would be overworked. Additionally, these shoes increase proprioception — or your sense of ‘body awareness’ — improving balance and coordination during training performances.
It's important to note that barefoot shoes generally don't offer any arch support, so if you have weak ankles or weak arches due to muscle imbalances then it would be best to work on those before attempting heavy lifts with barefoot-style footwear.
Overall, wearing a pair of properly fitted barefoot sneakers while weightlifting can help improve technique as well as mobility while reducing strain on important joints like your knees, hips and back—especially when you factor in proper form!
Can I squat in barefoot shoes?
Yes, you can squat in barefoot shoes! Doing so can provide several benefits compared to traditional footwear. Barefoot shoes are designed with a wider toe box and lower heel lift, which allows for a more natural foot motion during the movement. This helps your feet stay firmly planted on the ground for better balance, stability and control.
Additionally, barefoot shoes promote good posture by allowing you to maintain an upright torso and place more emphasis on using your hips rather than your back muscles when squatting. Overall, if you are looking to get deeper into squats with proper form and technique then barefoot shoes are definitely something to consider!
Do bodybuilders train barefoot?
Yes! Training barefoot can be very beneficial for bodybuilders. Barefoot training provides better stability, balance, and proprioception, allowing the bodybuilder to increase strength and reduce risk of injury during heavier lifts like squats and deadlifts.
It also develops stronger foot muscles which helps with posture when squatting or lunging.
Additionally, because the feet experience full ground contact while training barefoot, it can help stimulate reflexes from nerves in the foot; stimulating those reflexes prevents over-stretching of tendons and ligaments when lifting heavy weights--again reducing the risk of injuries.
All-in-all, training barefoot is a great way for bodybuilders to enhance their performance safely by increasing power output in functional movements like squats or running drills.
Your best barefoot training shoes
Nowadays, it is not easy to find the appropriate barefoot training shoes. To increase the chances of success, it is recommended to learn about their style and function before purchasing since there are numerous options available. We listed 5 of the top barefoot training shoes on Amazon today and broken down their key features to make your life easier.
If you want the perfect all-rounder then our choice for the best overall model is an excellent option that combines design elements from all categories mentioned above at an unbeatable price point.
The best bang-for-buck shoe is a cost-conscious option that won't spend much from your wallet.
If you're looking for something more eco-friendly, then the best sustainable shoe will fit it perfectly due to the natural and recycled materials used in its construction.
For those seeking out the "closest to being barefoot"-experience, our recommendation for the best barefoot experience takes care of that with its five-finger design and lightweight feel.
Last but not least, the best looks model gives a stylish touch to any look with its color palette range.
Use the links provided to check out your next favorite barefoot training shoes on Amazon today!
Each product was independently selected by us. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out and play with, but all opinions in this article are our own. We are a member of the Amazon affiliate program. We may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something.
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Joep Heijen
