Barefoot shoes are designed to fit your feet and help you walk in a natural way. They are both comfortable to wear, and good for your gait. Unlike most traditional shoes, barefoot shoes don’t squeeze your foot into a shape, instead they fit around your foot’s natural shape.

Barefoot or minimalist shoes?

Have you seen the terms barefoot shoes and minimalist shoes? Confused? It’s really quite simple: These terms mostly mean the same thing and are often used interchangeably. However, some people have pointed out that wearing shoe by definition means that you are not barefoot, and others feel that the term “barefoot” shoes should only be used to shoes which enable each toe to move independently.

Barefoot shoes come in all shapes, sizes and looks, but they have three main characteristics which set them apart from other shoes:

1) Wide toe box

Barefoot shoes typically have a wide toe box, giving your toes space to wiggle. This helps your foot move in a natural way as you walk, with the toes moving together with the rest of the foot. It is also comfortable, your toes are not squeezed into a narrow tip as is the case with many other shoe types. Some barefoot shoes have space for each toe separately, similar to toe socks or to finger gloves.

2) Zero drop

The sole of a barefoot shoe is typically designed to be flat, or zero drop. This means that the shoe does not raise your heel up above the height of the rest of your sole. As a consequence, your gait while wearing barefoot shoes is similar to your gait while not wearing any shoes.

3) Thin sole

Barefoot shoes often have thin soles, typically around 5mm. This enables the shoe and the foot to react to the ground you walk on, improving balance as well as providing a better connection with your environment.

For all conditions

Barefoot shoes work for all conditions and occasions. While barefoot shoes have often been associated with running and exercise, there are also barefoot shoes designed to wear at formal occasions, as everyday sneakers, as winter shoes, rubber boots, and more. Both children and adults can use barefoot shoes.

Are you looking for something special? Don’t hesitate to contact us by sending an e-mail to fint@fint.is.