Unlock the Barefoot Advantage: Top Minimalist Shoes for 2026

Barefoot running and walking have grown in popularity in recent years as more people seek a more natural, low-impact way to stay active. By ditching traditional, heavily cushioned shoes, you can strengthen your foot muscles, improve your balance and proprioception, and even reduce your risk of certain injuries.

But not everyone is ready to go completely barefoot. That's where minimalist shoes come in - they provide a thin, flexible sole that mimics the natural sensation of being barefoot, without leaving your feet completely exposed. If you're new to minimalist footwear, the selection can be overwhelming. That's why we've rounded up the best barefoot shoes for running or walking in 2026.

When choosing the right minimalist shoe, look for a zero-drop platform (meaning the heel and forefoot are at the same height), a flexible and lightweight sole, and enough room in the toebox for your toes to splay naturally. Avoid excessive cushioning or arch support, which can interfere with the barefoot-like experience.

Here are our top picks for the best barefoot shoes in 2026:

Merrell Vapor Glove 7 - A longtime favorite in the minimalist running community, the latest iteration of the Vapor Glove features an even more flexible, zero-drop sole and a wider, more foot-shaped toebox. The 3.5mm Vibram outsole provides just enough protection without sacrificing ground feel.

Xero Shoes HFS - These versatile minimalist shoes are great for both running and walking. With a 5.5mm FeelTrue rubber sole, they offer a bit more cushioning than some other options, making them a good choice for those transitioning to less shoe. The wide, roomy toebox allows your toes to spread out naturally.

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite III - For a truly barefoot-like experience, check out the Primus Lite III. The 3.5mm sole is incredibly flexible and responsive, providing excellent ground feel. These shoes are a favorite for trail running and hiking in addition to road running.

No matter which minimalist shoe you choose, be sure to transition slowly and listen to your body. It may take some time to build up the strength and proprioception in your feet. But once you experience the joy of moving more naturally, you won't want to go back to traditional, heavily cushioned shoes.