Selection of the most popular barefoot shoes for the gym and running
Anyone who has experienced the comfort of barefoot shoes for everyday walking doesn’t want to squeeze their feet even during sports. Step into comfort at the gym and for outdoor running, the right footwear will help improve your performance.
We have selected 6 of the most popular models of sports barefoot shoes for adults. In this comparison review, we подробно analyze their features and recommend the activities they are suitable for.
Why are barefoot shoes suitable for fitness?
Thanks to their design, barefoot shoes are more suitable for fitness than regular sports footwear. They provide better grounding, stability, and balance.
- Wide toe box - allows the toes to spread naturally
- Flat sole - evenly distributes weight across the entire foot
- Thin sole - brings the foot closer to the ground
In barefoot shoes, the foot works actively and strengthens naturally through movement.
Comparison of barefoot shoe soles for the gym
High-quality soles ensure safe workouts. While bare feet can easily sweat and slip on a mat, a non-slip sole keeps the foot in place. Therefore, when choosing gym shoes, first check the tread and shape of the sole.
Remember that the shoe must hold well around the ankle while still providing enough room for the toes. Always allow at least 6 mm of extra space (for running up to 13 mm of free space).
Comparison of barefoot fitness shoe models
Among the most popular brands of barefoot fitness shoes are Vivobarefoot, Xero Shoes, and Joma. We selected two user-proven models from each brand for this comparison.
Vivobarefoot: Motus Flex + Primus Lite IV
Motus Flex is suitable for crossfit and calisthenics thanks to its special non-slip sole.
- Lightweight and flexible for a barefoot-like feel. Suitable even for mat workouts.
- The knitted upper ensures a good fit.
- Calisthenics experts divided the sole into two parts for better flexibility.
- 2.5 mm rubber outsole + 1.5 mm tread with patented puncture protection.
- Feels and looks somewhat like socks.
Primus Lite IV represents a versatile shoe for training and everyday movement.
- Extra lightweight and flexible, ideal for stretching.
- Highly adaptable for dynamic movement control.
- Use of vegan and recycled materials reduces environmental impact.
- Compared to Motus Flex, they have an even more flexible sole.
Xero Shoes: HFS II + 360 Rally
HFS II is suitable for running and light hiking.
- Breathable upper suitable for spring and summer sports activities.
- Sole tread reduces the risk of slipping while running.
- Not suitable for fan-shaped feet due to less toe space.
- The color design stands out even from a distance.
360 Rally can handle more dynamic workouts and running thanks to a thicker sole.
- Breathable upper, silk mesh lining effectively wicks moisture.
- 5.5 mm FeelTrue® sole is less flexible than previous models but protects the foot better on impact.
- Simple design for freedom of movement with every step.
- Less running-focused than HFS II, more suitable for quick movements and indoor sports.
Joma: Supercross + Viper
Supercross offers extra cushioning for comfortable running even on asphalt.
- Breathable upper with VTS ventilation system for sweat evaporation.
- Antibacterial insole prevents odor.
- 4.5 mm midsole with REACTIVE BALL technology softens impacts.
- 3.5 mm non-slip DURABILITY outsole resistant to abrasion.
Viper are running shoes with high durability.
- Same parameters as Supercross, but the stiffest sole among all models.
- Designed for maximum performance while maintaining lightness.
Didn’t find what you were looking for above? We recommend browsing the full range of workout shoes.
Almost barefoot in the gym
You can go completely barefoot on your mat during yoga or pilates, where proper execution requires absolute freedom for the feet and toes. Although going barefoot is generally beneficial, we do not recommend going completely barefoot in the gym, because:
- Sharing sweat with others is not hygienic (not to mention dirt on the floor).
- There is a risk of foot injury from equipment or inattentive exercisers.
- Bare feet may slip more and provide less grip.
As an alternative for the gym, we offer popular Skinners sock shoes. They feel like socks, but the non-slip sole ensures safety. They can be rolled up to fit in your pocket, saving space in your sports bag.
Running barefoot shoes
To complete the list, we add two more brands of running barefoot shoes. Although their cushioned soles place them in the category of compromise shoes, they maintain the comfort of a wide toe box and a practical flat sole, like the Altra brand for adult runners.
If you don’t yet have experience with barefoot shoes, they serve as a great starting alternative. We have also prepared a guide to running in barefoot shoes to help you not only choose the right pair but also refine your running technique.