BAREFOOT SHOES / the best pairs for run, hike, and casual

these are the ten best barefoot shoes for walking, running, hiking, and everything in between. (:
-andrew
BEST BAREFOOT SHOES
/ buy below + support the channel for free (:
chart - - - - - - - - - -
leather boots - - - bit.ly/3KtR7KV
v-trek - - - - - - - - - - amzn.to/3PKaD6N
flying fox - - - - - - - bit.ly/3L3fRKq
primus-lite - - - - - - tidd.ly/3zPMSpi
primus-trek - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq
z-trek sandal - - - - bit.ly/3QqZ6e6
highrise knit - - - - bit.ly/3PQD7w1
primus sg - - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq
escalante - - - - - - amzn.to/3clB4lM
injinji socks - - - - - bit.ly/3je4SnQ
MORE VIDEOS
my barefoot journey - - - • cushion vs barefoot ru...
zero-drop transition - - - - • ZERO-DROP / transition...
barefoot transition - - - - - • RUN BAREFOOT / a shoes...
plantar fasciitis cure - - - • PLANTAR FASCITIS / cur...
SOCIAL LINKS
instagram - - - / fthelines
medium - - - - / fthelines
youtube - - - - / andrewfolts
website - - - - fthelines.com
books - - - - - www.blurb.com/user/aofolts
#barefootshoes #minimalistshoes #zerodrop
00:00 Intro
0:47 #10: Altra Escalante
1:15 #9: VivoBarefoot Primus SG
1:50 #8: FeelGrounds Highrise
2:24 #7: VivoBarefoot Primus Trek
3:02 #6: Xero Z-Trek Sandal
3:37 #5: VivoBarefoot Primus Lite
4:17 #4: Wildling Flying Fox
4:53 #3: Vibram V-Trek
5:38 #2: Noble Soles Leather Moccasin Boot
6:19 #1: Barefoot
6:52 Conclusion

[@AndrewFolts]

*Best Barefoot Shoes* (referral links) chart - - - - - - - - - - bit.ly/3Revh04 leather boots - - - bit.ly/3KtR7KV v-trek - - - - - - - - - - amzn.to/3PKaD6N flying fox - - - - - - - bit.ly/3L3fRKq primus-lite - - - - - - tidd.ly/3zPMSpi primus-trek - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq z-trek sandal - - - - bit.ly/3QqZ6e6 highrise knit - - - - bit.ly/3PQD7w1 primus sg - - - - - - bit.ly/3oPawfq escalante - - - - - - amzn.to/3clB4lM injinji socks - - - - - bit.ly/3je4SnQ

[@CircumambulationMaedia]

Link for that jumper?

[@juukame]

I highly appreciate that you test these in snow and ice. Living in the upper Midwest where winters are harsh it's nice to see someone who can test these shoes in all conditions

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I see too many videos where people are just reviewing shoes in a home studio, and I'm like...hmmm...did they even wear them outside, ha?

[@jimj1313]

Perfect video! I'm just starting my journey to barefootedness, and your video popped into my feed at the perfect moment. Really well done -- great clips, concise information, and amazing extra content. Time to go shopping!

[@AndrewFolts]

Right on! Transitioning to barefoot is a bunch of fun, so take it slow and enjoy, because you only get to do it once. Happy shopping!.

[@TaylorAlexander]

Great comparison video! A few weeks ago you inspired me to get in to barefoot shoes. I put away my big heavy boots, pulled some more flexible "water hiking" shoes from my camping supplies for daily wear, and I have been designing my own barefoot shoes from scratch! I designed a cotton denim upper that is a clone of the Vibrams Furoshiki shoe (I am not a runner) and I have a 3D printed mold that holds the upper in the mold while I cast a sole. Last night I cast the sole into the mold and I think it went well, I'll find out tonight when it is all cured and I de-mold it. Once I know it works I will make it all open source, and I hope some day to teach classes on making things like this! Anyway I think you saved my feet. My little toes have been pressed inward for years and I have developed a lot of foot pain. I have been following some of your stretching and exercise advice and I think I can turn thing around. Thanks for all your videos!

[@AndrewFolts]

Sweet! You should make a video about 3d printing barefoot shoes. I'd totally watch it, and I bet lots of other people too. Love the idea of "open-source barefoot." Let me know how they turn out!

[@TaylorAlexander]

@@AndrewFolts Yah I definitely will!

[@vaginagas]

I’d be interested in watching! I’ve got big wide feet. Haven’t tried barefoot shoes yet, but am a bit skeptical if I can find any wide enough.

[@jessicasonnino8245]

@@AndrewFolts 6

[@koopdi]

Any updates on this? I'm thinking of trying something similar. It's hard to find a toebox that matches my profile.

[@JMijares]

Thanks for the review! When I was running half marathons and longer, Altras were my favorites. VFFs are my go-to now for trail running. But for casual wear, I really like the Softstar shoes. The toe boxes are nice and wide. I alternate between VFFs and Softstar for running on the flats.

[@AndrewFolts]

Nice! Yea, I hear good things about Softstar, and the leather looks super comfy!

[@eugenetomison8431]

I've been using Vibram five fingers since the early 2000's. I have had 4 pairs and I've hiked Kenya, Blue mountains, flinders rangers Sth Aust, Valley of the Giants West Aust, and My feet have never been happier. Stopped all the tightness and achilleas problems, thanks for the reviews of other brands

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, feel that. Vibram's are my go-to's for just about everything too. There's nothing they can't handle, except maybe winter slush, ha!

[@austinado16]

Thanks for the good video! My daughter and I started running and backpacking in FiveFingers in 2012, just prior to her starting high school XC and track for 4 years. She was the only athlete on either team to never have an injury, and she/they ran year round, to the tune of over 1,000mi/yr, training and racing. The FF's aren't a fast shoe, so she typically raced in New Balance Minimus 10v1's, and racing flats, in XC, and of course in both sprint spikes and distance spikes on the track, racing all distances from the 100m to the 3200m. 10yrs later, we are still running in the FF's, and still running together (vids on my channel). I wear a pair of VivoBarefoot Primus Trail FG's at work, on a concrete floor, as a mechanic, 9hrs a day. Other really fun shoes to run and hike/backpack in are the Merrell Vapor Glove, or Trail Glove, especially the earlier versions. In late summer and/or fall, when the local trails are a packed hard and strewn with rock, the FF's can be a bit thin. The Merrell's are a fantastic tool for those conditions, and a very fast shoe, as well!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, lots of great shoes here! FF's can definitely be unforgiving if you're racing over rocky terrain. The Altra Vanish XC might be one to look at, too. Bit of cushion with a zero-drop midsole. Looking forward to doing some backpacking in my FF's this summer.. Cheers!

[@SkreltNL]

My personal experience is that i need to call bullshit on your statement, as you put it down as true fivefinger shoes are as fast as the person wielding them. my results with them have shot up, i find new balance shoes for example, really slow. its like i am running on pillows. Personally use the training 2.0 without the insole. so i have even less between ground and my feet. your opinion (your daughters) sure, great! But i had different experiences. For me, fivefinger shoes did help. Personally also played indoor volleyball & outdoor basketball with em, all without injury. All went great. Altho indoor traction is really bad.

[@davidmarciniak6118]

Dude, I love your content. Please never stop.

[@AndrewFolts]

Roger that. More videos on the way asap. (:

[@brandimcwhorter9050]

You inspired me to buy my first pair of barefoot shoes, which I did today. I've been running in Altra (Torin and Escalante) but I'm really longing for that connection to the earth you've described. Thank you for your insights and for another great video!

[@AndrewFolts]

Sweet! Which ones did you get? Should be a natural transition from the Torin/Escalante. You can even alternate back and forth to rest your body while you transition. Happy barefooting! (:

[@brandimcwhorter9050]

@@AndrewFolts I ended up getting two pairs - the Vivo Barefoot Primus Lite III and the Geo Racer II. I couldn't find a good comparison video (only a few small threads on reddit) and I couldn't decide which ones to settle on - so I had to get both! If you ever do a video comparing these two models that would be tremendous!

[@AndrewFolts]

@@brandimcwhorter9050 Oh nice! The main difference is that the Primus Lite is more reinforced, so it can work for cross-training and running, while the Geo's are lighter and more stretchy, so they're mostly for running. I've also heard the Lite's have better breathability in the upper, so I'd say they're the best option all around, unless you prefer a softer feel.

[@lern-undkursvideos2512]

It’s so funny: I changed to barefoot completely around three years ago. And the most comfortable shoes before were the most cushioned, now the most comfortable by far are those with the least cushion or anything. I run in the geo racer and after a loooong build up, now I am feeling so much better. Thanks mate!

[@AndrewFolts]

I'm jealous, the Geo's do look pretty sweet! Props to you for taking the long build up. It's hard to be patient, but totally worth it. Cheers!

[@rigo.acosta]

I love with all my heart my xero hfs, might not be the prettiest thing to look at but for comfort and performance in running and weight lifting , it’s great

[@AndrewFolts]

Totally! Xero makes quality shoes, and I feel like if they just improved their designs a bit, people would really go crazy for them.

[@ViktoriaBerg]

I´m still doing barefoot shoes since you inspired me to make the switch this summer. As we are now in Arctic winter with temperatures as low as -30C some days, I switch between SoleRunners and Xeroshoes Alpines and I haven´t had cold feet once! My blood flow down there is awesome with active feet. Thanks - this is lifechanging!

[@AndrewFolts]

Right? It seems like the thinner the shoe, the more it retains heat, as long as you keep moving. At -30 you've got me beat tho. (:

[@sergeboivin566]

I got Xero Alpines this past winter and loved them... -20C is about as bad as it got here 🙂

[@saxy1player]

Thanks for your content! I switched to vivo last year and it feels great. This spring I'm looking to go barefoot, though. Make use of what I was born with :)

[@AndrewFolts]

Nothing like that first day when it's finally warm enough to go barefoot! (:

[@100hundert]

Entered the fascinating world of minimal shoes a few months ago, went a bit crazy with the Vivos, now I own five pairs for all seasons! Next I want to try other manufacturers and different styles - so this video comes at the perfect moment!

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha...as my coworker used to say when I worked at a run specialty shop..."Two shoes cost twice as much but last twice as long." Happy barefooting! (:

[@memefeed2147]

I too started out going crazy with 4 vivos and 14 pairs of injinji socks

[@AndrewFolts]

@@memefeed2147 Ha, wow. That's 140 toes!

[@Davmm96]

@@memefeed2147 how the fuck do you guys have so much money for shoes. I get by with 2 pairs for summer & canadian winter.

[@alexmighty693]

What's the 5th season

[@lisacollins3304]

I am new to this site,and I like the host's presentations(easygoing,and very informative). Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Thanks, Lisa. Appreciate you stopping by. (:

[@melanieyork3186]

Most informative comparison video I have found on the barefoot shoe world. I have had interest in buying vibrim five finger shoes and have felt kind of lost on which direction to go. They have so many designs for so many different types of uses. Anyway, I found your video really helpful. Nice job.

[@AndrewFolts]

Honestly, I'd just get the V-Trek's. They work for everything. (:

[@joshuaalbert9437]

Wow this is a really great breakdown. Thanks for uploading!

[@AndrewFolts]

No prob. Thanks for stopping by, Joshua!

[@themancoat]

Big fan of the Primus Trail. I've used a pair for the last 2 years for disc golf and they have held up really well. I also used to have a pair of the Xero Z treks, but the tore where the strap loops into the sole after about a month, which they replaced. The second set tore the first day I went out. I went back to a pair of the early Vivo sandals I had. If anyone is looking for a cheap pair to kick into the office with the Whitin barefoot sneakers on found on Amazon have treated me really well. I might have to pick up a pair of those feelgrounds though

[@AndrewFolts]

Disc golf, that's a new one! I love how many uses people come up with for barefoot shoes. Bummer about the Z-Trek's. Never had a problem with mine, fortunately. The FeelGrounds do look pretty sweet.

[@tonyriley4585]

Thanks for the video. I will have to look back at old videos for stretch advice. I am trying to enter into barefoot shoes. I am middle aged 30 or so lbs heavier than my normal. Haven't been exercising as much in the last 10 yrs as I once did. I work in a hospital, a lot of steps every day and the floors are very hard. I would say that my foot muscles are weak. I have been dealing with plantar fasciitis for 6 or 8 months. Some days it's almost crippling, either in the morning just to get moving or by the end of my day at work. In a last effort to try and feel human again, I am working on foot stretches, and strengthening techniques. And trying barefoot route. I have tried every insole and comfortable shoe thinking that I didn't have enough padding or the right kind for my work environment. I have been doing some stretches and wearing an introductory shoe from Merrell (black sulphur springs) I got second hand like new. I wait for a xero prio probably May 7th. I will continue to stretch/strengthen my feet. And likely decide on another minimal shoe that is very non slip for my job which is hard floors and mopping. Needs to be safe for that environment. Shoes at work are dedicated to work. I wish that Canada had more in Canada options. Wish me luck with me journey. I am tired of the foot pain that I have endured. This past 5 days are the least amount of pain I have had in 6 months actually trying new things. It feels like progress

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Tom, feel your pain. Used to work a run specialty job on concrete all day and had similar PF problems. I tried everything, even Xero's, but nothing worked, until I tried a pair of 3mm Vivo Primus Lite's. What I realized is that even my 5.5mm Xero sandals were too thick and clunky to allow my feet to move naturally, but once I went down to 3mm (4mm seemed pretty good too), my feet no longer ached, and I was able to walk smoothly on concrete all day with no pain. Keep trying things, and you'll get there!

[@MrHepcat34]

Nice comparison. I picked up a pair of Xero Prio, and I love them. Feel way better than wearing my Vibram. I am still a beginner at barefoot, but I have been running in them & love it! Additionally my fam doesn’t look at me weird when I wear them.

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, that's true, Vibram's can attract unwanted attention at times. Glad you're loving the Prio's. I hear lots of good things about them. Cheers!

[@susanneflachsenhaar301]

I'm waiting for my pair to come in any day. Can't wait to loose the sketches. I'm diabetic so shoes are almost the most important thing. Next to my dog. Just hope they hold up to the pooches pulling me

[@mrinalkundu1521]

Very useful. Thanks Andrew.

[@AndrewFolts]

You're welcome, thanks for watching, Mrinal!

[@bmwusn]

Thank you for your time, very informative. Seventy seven years of foot abuse and I can here my feet instantly repeating GIVE ME_GIVE ME! Good job well done Mr Folts.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yes...we've all suffered long enough, ha! Set those feet free. (:

[@doatmidnight8540]

Thanks for the review! I'm excited to get a new pair so I've been doing my research to get the perfect shoe for me. I'm not buying anything until I burn through my current pair which has motivated me to be more active so I can use them more in order to justify buying new ones.

[@AndrewFolts]

Sweet! Which ones are you currently using?

[@doatmidnight8540]

@@AndrewFolts began my barefoot journey with Feelgrounds droptop knit, wore through the sole and got xero Aptos. Also Xero sandals and Alpine for snow. I run in Inov something or other. Minimalist with wide toe box but not barefoot. Can't wait to get out if them. What is your favorite running shoe. Whatever I get next will definitely be the absolute minimum material possible.

[@philiproszak1678]

I've been running in Primus Lites for three months now and I've never felt better!

[@AndrewFolts]

Three months will become three years real fast. Enjoy! (:

[@grahammckinney5705]

I have the Primus lite 2 and the Manga trail from vivobarefoot and love them. Thanks for the review.

[@AndrewFolts]

Thanks, Graham! Did you ever own the Primus Lite 1? That's what I have, and it's 3mm instead of 4mm on the new ones, so I'm curious if there's any difference in feel.

[@grahammckinney5705]

@Andrew Folts No just the Primus 2. I was looking to buy the Primus 3, but 2s just keep going😁

[@positivevibrations5103]

really love your vibe thank you for the video

[@AndrewFolts]

Thanks, yo! Appreciate the love. (:

[@ominousview]

Thanks for the video. Thanks for the info on other barefoot shoe brands. I actually wear a brand, besides Xeros and vivo, called Joomra as well, for a casual look for work or going out and about for errands or shopping or hanging out with friends. They're not the most barefooted (I'm sure I just used that word wrong, lol) but definitely comfy and supportive for transitioning into barefoot shoes. They're cheap too so for anyone wanting to see if barefoot is something they want to try or if you want something that you want to wear a lot and not worry about the mileage and wear and tear too much, without spending 3-5xs more for other brands. I'm also into vegan products, a video about vegan barefoot shoes may be of help for other ppl as . Thanks again

[@AndrewFolts]

Interesting! What's Joomra's website? I saw some barefoot socks when I searched, but doesn't sound like that's what you have. Wildling is a great brand if you're looking for vegan shoes. Sometimes Vivo has vegan options as well, and their refurbished store "revivo.com" is a good way to save on waste as well. Cheers!

[@mackjenkins7721]

Man this was a good video man. I have always been a barefooted 👣 person since I was born. I was born with very very extremely wide feet. Barefooted 👣 or wearing flip flops was my footwear when I was young. I hated shoes and socks because they would crush and hurt my toes because of it not being wide enough for my toes. It also didn't help that my toes are equally straight across instead of being at a 45-degree angle like everybody else's toes are. By the time I was 18 years old my foot had outgrew shoes , socks , & boots. When I was in 12 grade in high school School would not let me walk around barefooted 👣in school & i had to cut the top of the toe box off just for my toes to stop being crushed & to spread out. My lil toe was hanging off the footbed of the shoe. That's how I my toes were at the time. I had to walk Barefooted 👣 for a couple of months before I found a pair of flip-flops that was wide enough to fit on my feet & to this day flip flops is the only footwear that will barely and i mean barely fit my foot because my toes are wider than the flip flops straps. As I was getting older and older my toes was getting fatter , fatter , & wide & wide & now i have big very very chubby fat wide toes that are equally straight across making my foot very very wide at 6 1/2 inches wide from my big toe to my lil toe. It's a very very extremely wide feet a have. I have to drive my car barefooted because it's so wide that it touches the brake and the at the same time. I used to be able to wear Five Finger shoes until my toes got so fat that my toes won't fit in the pockets no more. But I still love 5 finger shoe. This was a good video I thought I'd share my story about how I love to be barefooted 👣 too.

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, bet they give you some good balance tho! I wish I had never worn pointy shoes and cleats growing up. Like you said, it wrecks your feet, and now my toes are all crooked. If Vibram's don't work for you, then maybe go for a DIY leather sandal or shoe kit. You basically cut out the leather/rubber sole, so it's the exact size and shape you want. You can find lots of them on Etsy and elsewhere. Here's what I have... www.etsy.com/listing/121554716/leather-moccasin www.etsy.com/listing/879825446/tara-diy-sandals-barefoot-sandal

[@mapk4655]

I bought a pair of Wildling Tanukis recently as my first pair of barefoot shoes and I absolutely love them. They are so flexible. My only gripe is that whenever I run (I know they're not running shoes, but still) the insoles slide all over the place inside the shoe. It's not a big deal as I can just take the insole out, but a lot of people probably want it if they're transitioning.

[@AndrewFolts]

Cool! Do you have the one's made with paper? Never used the insole myself, but does sound annoying. I run in my Flying Foxes, too, and they're great.

[@shaneikiyasteel7073]

Definitely coping a pair of VivoBare Lite & V-Trek for myself! I'm always running on roads and paved trails. I'll be getting my boyfriend the Primus reks and we may both get Wilding Flying Fox.

[@AndrewFolts]

Ooh, a buffet of barefoot shoes. Sounds like you're in for a lot of fun. Enjoy!

[@nethanelwoodcock8792]

Thank you! Truely. Not enough people say it and I want to change that

[@AndrewFolts]

Welcome to the Barefuture. (:

[@yourtv5974]

Great video! I myself am new to running, as I have only been running for 8 months with varying degrees of success. All this time I have been struggling with pain in the tibialis posterior muscle in my right leg. I have tried several different running shoes such as Salomon Sonic 4 Confidence, Asics Novablast 2 but the pain in my foot has never left me. I recently came across a book Born to Run and learned what barefoot running was about and thought it might help me get rid of my injury. I ran 6-7 times on the treadmill in socks for about 2-2.5 km and everything ached except for the posterior tibial muscle. True, at that time I just wanted to improve my technique a little, so I did not plan to run in minimalist shoes all the time, and ordered a pair of Saucony Kinvara 12, as they have a low drop and could potentially help me get rid of my injury. As I am from Kazakhstan, we have a rather poor selection of shoes, so I ordered these sneakers from Amazon, but after trying them on, I realized that it would be hard for me to run in them. Now I’m thinking, should I try to continue running in them, or sell them and buy a pair of Merrell Vapor Glove 5? My goal is to run either every day for 5 km, or 3 times a week for 10 km. Will I be able to do it in these shoes over time? What about a marathon in a year or so?

[@AndrewFolts]

The Kinvara's a good starting point. The secret is to not do too much too fast. Even 2km for a first barefoot run is probably way too much. My first barefoot run was literally two minutes-to the end of my street and back. It's a totally different skill set, so you have to build up very slowly and get enough rest, so that your body can adjust. Vapor Gloves are a good trail option, but I find them too hard and clunky for roads. The cheapest way to do barefoot running is to just have someone make you (or DIY) a pair of thin leather moccasins. You can then just replace the soles whenever they want for dirt cheap. Leather sandals are pretty cheap too.

[@standunitedorfall1863]

It may take you awhile to find just the right shoe that your feet like. As was mentioned, take your time adjusting to avoid injury. I wear my minimalist shoes for everything which helps me get used to them. But I've been wearing different ones for years now. Altra is good for roads for me, and I recently got a Vivo trail shoe that was on sale. Sorry I don't remember the names of the specific types. I will never go back to regular running shoes, ugh.

[@annmariemart]

Hi Andrew, love your videos. So well produced and a pleasure to watch. What about barefoot walking. Do the same guidelines apply?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Ann, thanks! Any barefoot shoe for running can also be used for walking, although you don't have to "forefoot" strike. Here's my barefoot walking video with more info: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l5WseIWvZpdmb8U

[@nowster]

I started transitioning to Vibrams in 2011 and have been wearing them exclusively ever since. I have a certain amount of hypermobility and suffered from flat feet since my teenage years, with uncomfortable insoles. Then one set of insoles raised blisters on a short walk and I started to look for alternatives. Due to the muscles in foot and lower leg tightening up from actually getting used now, I no longer have flat feet. Two years ago I took up running...

[@AndrewFolts]

That's great, Paul! Sometimes it's those accidental insights that lead to recovery. Glad you're doing well with Vibram's. They're my favs too!

[@jcap8391]

@@AndrewFolts What you think of the new Zen shoes from lems? I also heard that the feelgrounds start to stink bc they are made of plastic or polyester? Don't like Lems?

[@AndrewFolts]

@@jcap8391 Quality and toebox are great, but I like my shoes thin and without cushion, so Lems aren't for me. And yea, synthetic materials are the biggest downside of FeelGrounds. They're not very breathable.

[@chriscoughlan5221]

That's incredible, i stopped running due to constant back pain!! Wished id seen this video 5 years ago. Will have to give them a whirl! Nothing to lose!!

[@Dara-ih6jq]

I started wearing Vibram five fingers about 10 years ago and I tried other brands and they all feel so narrow to me like they’re imitation barefoot shoes. Once you use five fingers it’s seriously hard to find a closed toe barefoot shoe that can compete. I’ve used my 5 fingers in every environment you can imagine mainly doing my adventure races that are composed of a 5 mile run, canoeing and bikimg with random water obstacles, wet, dry, mud, sand I’ve been through everything with my fingers, except for ice lol. I recently bought a close toed pair and tried them on and instantly regretted not sticking with 5 fingers 😅

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, if they could only come up with a decent water/winterproof version, I'd wear Vibram's 24/7. The separate toes really do feel more natural and agile than anything else.

[@happydays4302]

Really liked that you included bare feet as one of the options 🙂

[@AndrewFolts]

Paying homage to the OG of barefoot. (:

[@AnnaKincaid]

Great info and video!I have the v-treck and ordered my first pair of wildlings. I so can't wait for then to arrive! My husband just got a pair of groundies he says the sole is thicker then his vivos but more comfortable. I use VFF for most of my outdoor activities do I have lots of pairs of those. 🙃

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, you two sound like a real dynamic duo with all those barefoot shoes! You'll like the WIldling's, they're even more flexible than VFF's. Have fun out there!

[@AnnaKincaid]

@@AndrewFolts funny story I got him his first pair of VFF and he rolled his eyes thinking the was a fad. He put them on and wouldn't take them off that was 9 years ago we have used barefoot shoes since. our kids all wear them too although our newest addition has the most amazing toe splay I don't ever want to put shoes on him 😛

[@AndrewFolts]

@@AnnaKincaid Ha, another one catches the toe shoe bug. Was the same for me at first too. (:

[@Zam432F]

Great video. Can we get a ranking list with multiple categories, including ranking the most pure barefoot shoe, the best casual shoe, best hiking shoe, best versatile shoe. Things to consider would be sole thinness, widest toe box, how lightweight it is, flexibility, etc. brands I would like to see in the showdown of barefoot shoes would be wildlings,splay, vivo, vibram. It would also be cool if you could collab with barefoot strength on this video.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey David, you read my mind. I'm literally working on an exhaustive list of all the top barefoot brands with a Notion table, so you can sort/filter by all kinds of metrics. Ranking can be hard, since a lot of it is personal preference, but right now I'd say Vibram FF for widest toebox and flexibility, Wildling for thinness (3.5mm), though Vibram is close at 4mm, and FeelGrounds or Groundies for casual.

[@ravenwildandfree7816]

Magical shoes handmade in Poland are my faves so far 💖

[@AndrewFolts]

Interesting! The toebox looks wide from the bottom from the underside view, but narrow from the top. How do you find it? What made them different that you liked?

[@joelsteele8363]

Please try Tadeevo's. I transitioned from altras to vivobarefoots to Tadeevos all with correct toes over the last three years. I had matarsalgia really bad and now I I'm back to running pain free. Also, I wear Lems boulder boots all day at work. Your videos played a big part in my recovery, thankyou.

[@AndrewFolts]

That's awesome, yea my Mom has the women's version of the Boulder Boot and loves it. The Tadeevo's are 5mm, which is a little too thick for me. They look cool, though, and there's a retro orange one that reminds me of this La Sportiva climbing shoe I used to have!

[@rajeshg562]

Andrew Great info on barefoot running....Your videos inspired me to start barefoot running and i am into 3rd week and already feeling good about my knees ,which used to hurt using the stability shoes. What are your thoughts on Xero shoes?

[@AndrewFolts]

Nice work! I own some Xero sandals and love 'em for trails, but at 5.5mm I find them a bit hard and clunky feeling for roads. I prefer the VivoBarefoot Primus Lite, which you can also find cheaper on revivo.com.

[@davidressler5098]

Thank you for the information

[@AndrewFolts]

No prob. Thanks for dropping by, David!

[@tigerjazz61]

Hi Andrew. I just subscribed to your channel and am glad I found it. Here’s my story. I’m 61 years old and 9 months ago I was 30 pounds overweight and was on meds for high blood pressure and generally felt ill. I resolved to focus on my health by making some significant lifestyle changes including diet and exercise. I also incorporated intermittent fasting. Part of my exercise routine included running. Being naive I listened to all the messaging from “Big Shoe” companies and ended up spending over $3,000 on the latest and greatest running shoes (stability, max cushioning, carbon plated, etc.) Well after months of knee pain and hip discomfort I ran across an article about barefoot shoes. I decided to give them a try and started out slowly with some zero drop Altra’s (I know those are not barefoot shoes but wanted to transition slowly.) After running in those for about a month my knee pain was gone and the hip discomfort was reduced significantly! My next step was to try some actual barefoot shoes. I got a couple different brands (Xero and Vivobarefoot). I loved both brands for different reasons and still love them to this day! I now wear barefoot shoes to work and for casual wear. I also go really barefoot 🦶 around the house as much as possible now. My feet are so much stronger now and my posture is solid. I am now really able to enjoying running without pain and discomfort! Also, with the lifestyle changes I made I lost 30 pounds and my Dr. took me of the blood pressure meds 👏! Looking forward to following your channel going forward.

[@tigerjazz61]

By the way, absolutely hate the Vibram five fingers shoes! Never fit me right and took over 20 minutes for me to put on and get a good feel 😩

[@AndrewFolts]

This is the kind of story that makes me smile. My goal is to make more and more people aware of other options, so they don't have to waste thousands of dollars, which is amazingly common. So glad you found some brands that work for you. Happy barefooting out there!

[@mattnelson7120]

Thanks a bunch for all your clear and concise videos! Have you noticed any differences with the sizing, or do most of them run true?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Matt, I think they're all 10's, so yea, they seem to fit true.

[@CMVaskova]

Coming back to this video to share a tip - super sorry if it's not the right place, but for folks in the States who want to try barefoot shoes without breaking the bank, I found my pair of Fivefinger Trek Ascent for like $40 on Poshmark. The weirdest place, I know. Plenty of people are selling either barely worn, worn or new pairs. I'm beyond happy with the Vibram Fivefingers, best experience I've had walking trails. Just thought I'd share some newbie barefoot hunting tips!

[@AndrewFolts]

Great tip, Cindy! Good timing too, because Vibram was out of stock in some styles at the moment. $40...what a find. (:

[@theedgeofbreakup5192]

Hey Andrew, thanks for taking the time to do this review. I’ve been wearing Altras for past 3 years. Could you recommend several barefoot shoes for desert / mountain trails. I’ll use Altra Olympus for longer hikes but want something for walking dogs or shorter walks.

[@AndrewFolts]

I use my Vibram V-Trek's for 99% of terrain in the summer. They're just so light, flexible, and tough. amzn.to/3xyMoSr For non toe shoes the Vivo FG's bit.ly/3APKRdi (medium) or the Saltic Outdoor (wide) barefootsaltic.cz/kategorie-produktu/barefoot/outdoor-flat would be two good options.

[@hawkeyejrose]

That chart tho...! Thank you!

[@AndrewFolts]

Notion and barefoot, my two favorite things. (:

[@rubencohen2936]

Andrew another great video for the Barefoot Shoe movement. Try a pair of Xero Shoes ( GENESIS, super thin sandals ). You will fall in love with how extremely Lite they are. Good for walking or running. People always notice them when I wear them out and about. 🤓 👣

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I was thinking about those, and maybe the DIY kit, which is even thinner at 4mm. First my Z-Trek's have to wear out tho, and at the rate they're going, it won't be for another five years, lol. The curse of barefoot durability. (:

[@rubencohen2936]

@@AndrewFolts Andrew, you should do a video for National Barefoot Day, ( June 1st of each year ). Show up everywhere that day with nothing on our feet. It's like 420 day for our feet to be free at last. 👣 😆

[@AndrewFolts]

@@rubencohen2936 Didn't know that. Will have to think of something. To be fair, I try to make every day National Barefoot Day. (:

[@sharanharrison23]

I am having a hard time finding these "barefoot" style shoes here in San Diego so I slow jog in thick socks around the house (tile and wood floors). To do so outside I inserted a thin shoe insert into the socks and I can slow jog on the rougher driveway without too much discomfort. I'm a newbie to this so I'm sure my feet will toughen up with time!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's too bad there aren't many stores with barefoot shoes. But simple DIY hacks can go a long way, and yea, your feet will get tough real quick that way. Props to creativity!

[@glennsak]

For sandals I like anything Shamma and for shoes Vivobarefoot Geo Knit Racers! P.S. Thank you for the great videos and inspiration.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I think Shamma's will be my next sandal when the Xero's wear out. But at this rate, that might not be for another five years, ha! Do you run in the Shamma's?

[@13kristaa]

I am a server and walk easily 20 000+ steps a night. I'm starting it get plantar fascitis, ankle and knee pain. I switched to a more cushioned shoe for serving thinking it would be better on my feet but now I'm not so sure it was the right decision, I'm having issues I've never had before.. I'm thinking about switching to a more barefoot shoe after watching some of your videos to see if it helps! :)

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I tried the same thing when working on a concrete floor in a run specialty shop. Super cushioned Hoka's were the worst by far. My feet just sank into the foam. What worked for me was the Vivo Primus Lite's. You can find them for like $70 on revivo.com. They're only 4mm thick, and for some crazy reason my feet never got tired in them and my PF symptoms were gone in a week.

[@thomaseubank1503]

This video should be at the top of the list. You are talking about the things that matter. So many barefoot shoes will get your feet soaked on a wet day and are far too narrow. Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, that's no fun at all! Since making this video BeLenka has become one of my favorite brands, because they're very wide and have lots of WP options. For example: winter boot kzbin.info/www/bejne/lYq5YYKirL9pj5I and running shoe kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWa8f39nnqdoo80

[@sergeboivin566]

Gotta love the minimalist monk look :-)

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, maybe I should start a brand of barefoot shoes called "Monkfoots"

[@km17509]

Thanks for making this review. Have you had any issues with Wildlings shoes sole cut away at the instep? For example wearing out of the cloth material where it may contact the ground? Or soaking up water if the ground is wet?

[@AndrewFolts]

I've had them under a year, but no problems as of yet. For wet conditions, I usually wear my Vivo Primus Trek's, which are waterproof. Wildlings are only water resistant, so it would make sense if they're getting damp.

[@ericlin1325]

Thanks for the shoe recommendations but where is that hoodie from?? Looks awesome!

[@AndrewFolts]

No problem! Hoodie's from TenTree.

[@beardedjebediah4186]

I’ve been enjoying your videos while learning about plantar fasciitis. Any recommendations for a wear around the office/house casual type of shoe for a big guy? I’m 13W 290lbs. Comfort is most important and this would be my 1st zero drop “barefoot” shoe. Thanks

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, BeLenka would be a great option. They're one of the widest barefoot brands and have 13's, plus lots of styles. www.belenka.com/barefoot-shoes-men

[@smarkwick7814]

6:46 hey that's Schoen Place Pittsford my hometown nice to see someone from the 585.😀

[@AndrewFolts]

Oh right on! I graduated from Sutherland in 09.

[@squidlyminimalisim]

i like the vivobarefoot esc tempest its a midtop trail/swimrun shoe with a amazing michelin outsole and its suprisingly water resistant from ground puddles despite being mesh noyl cons is that the vivo no tie laces feel very thin and easy to snap the shoe is super comfy and great for my super wide feet

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, people are loving the ESC series. Seems like a good blend of barefoot toughness with some padding.

[@wesleybarrett9502]

For me running I prefer an altra shoe and i want to upgrade to an Escalante from the provision 6. However, Whittin made a new padded zero drop runing shoe i want to try too. For casual i will go as thin as 3mm but usually xero prios or handmand sandals so between 3-6mm. And for sprint/workout shoes I currently use Prios but i want to upgrade to Lems Zen primals or even primal 2s. I will only go truly barefoot when walking (under 4 miles) or short jogs (under 1 mile to a friend's place) and i prefer to be shodded. And for dress shoes i bought simple turkish made minimalist styled dress shoes but i do like birchberries as well.

[@AndrewFolts]

Sounds like you've really run the gamut. Have fun out there! (:

[@curanderoverde]

I personally like the Whitin minimalist running shoe the black felt style one and also a pair of Luna sandals resoled with a Vibram Sierra sole

[@AndrewFolts]

Interesting! Did you resole the Luna's yourself or have someone do it?

[@curanderoverde]

@@AndrewFolts I had a shoe repair place do the work they pit Vibram Sierra soles on a pair of lunas

[@CaLiDaRi]

love those shoes while walking to the construction sites, you can feel everything

[@AndrewFolts]

Yup, the freedom to feel. (:

[@KathrineJKozachok]

The best barefoot shoe I've ever had is the Merrel Vaper glove, versions 2 or 3. Barely there, moves perfectly with your foot, perfect fit, sufficient protection. Now, they are up to version 5 which I would not recommend. I don't know why they changed it for the worse when they had a winning shoe. You can still find versions 2 or 3 or, I think 4 is still ok, but they are likely to be used. Still, they are such a great minimalist shoe, I am stocking up on everything I can find in my size.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, they were the only barefoot shoe in store when I used to work as a shoe salesman, so suffice it to say I sold a lot of them, ha! (:

[@hmf33]

Hey Andrew, would you be able to recommend a pair of barefoot shoes for running? I currently use the V-Alphas and I like them a lot, but I would like to have a 2nd pair that are non-toe shoes I can put on in a go. Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Few good options... - Vivo Prmus Lite (4mm, wide) bit.ly/3phhmOe - Wildling, any model (3.5mm, wide) bit.ly/3L3fRKq - BeLenka Dash (4mm, extra-wide) bit.ly/3I5GFJB

[@chrismead9579]

Hi Andrew. Thanks so much for all this. I've been following your Tightrope drill for a few weeks now. I run on heathland so it's loose stones and uneven surfaces - bit of mud and sand too. I've been running in Altra Lone Peak's but have come to the conclusion I need to go much thinner to really get the technique right - the sole is too cushioned and not flexible enough. So - which of these shoes should I go for in terms of trail running to really perfect the technique? I'd really value your advice. Thank you.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Chris, good timing...literally just posted a video yesterday about how the Vibram V-Trek's are my all-time favorite barefoot shoes (especially for trails). They're super flexible, but also give a lot of protection. Cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/nX-TaJehhNGii5Y

[@chrismead9579]

@@AndrewFolts Thanks so much. I saw that after I posted this and went ahead on that basis. Couldn’t find V-Trek in my size here in the UK. So I went V-Alpha. Apparently same upper construction - just a little bit less on the sole.

[@andrewwinchel4659]

Have you tried Birchbury? They are dressier leather shoes. They had sole bonding issues for a while, but supposedly, they fixed that. I have two pairs, and the rubber is soft, so they wear down fairly quickly. Hopefully they fixed that too.

[@AndrewFolts]

No, but I've heard good things. Probably will at some point, although it just hasn't been a priority due to me never wearing dress shoes.

[@FrantisekBachraty]

If I understood correctly from your presentation, the most universal are the Five fingers V-track, in which should be able to climb good? But for cold / water, spring / autumn are Vivo barefoot Primus Trek better? 😉

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, the V-Trek's are the best for warm/dry and the Vivo Trek's (now the Vivo FG) are best for cold/wet. If you have wide feet, then the BeLenka Trailwalkers are also a good cold weather shoe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJqaZ4NqlLShfKs

[@verseworks9683]

I got flying fox and vivo primus coming in

[@AndrewFolts]

Ooh boy! You're in for some fun. (:

[@socalninjaturtle]

I love the look of the feelgrounds, but same, I want it to be made from cotton or something else.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I've seen multiple reviewers ask for this, so hopefully FeelGrounds will listen and make a natural version!

[@antoniolim762]

Regular shoes would argue that its not the shoe shaped to the foot per se that is of benefit but how it cushions and supports the sole while the shoe is in prolonged use relative to the individual user (of course au natural is most preferred but not the safest given where and what you need to be stepping on)

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, there's a time and place for everything, but when in doubt, it's usually best to choose less. (:

[@UAPfpv_]

Not sure yet about the durability, but I've been running in my hey dude wally Sox..... And I'm surprised. I've always worn running shoes, so I have no experience with more minimalistic options, but I feel like it's a step in the right direction for me.

[@AndrewFolts]

What an interest name for a company, ha! Glad you're having a good time with some minimal kicks!

[@tubetubeunit]

Blew of my Achille tendons running with vibram 5 finger. Took 1 year to recover🤦. Using them mainly for water sports and short hiking now🤷

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's real easy to do too much too fast, especially in the beginning. My first run was literally two minutes, and that was about right, lol.

[@seechangenyc280]

Great Video! I've been fearful to take the leap. I want to start hiking - short hikes through urban forests...But....I can't find a shoe to fit me: Men's 8, 4E (even Altra's widest shoe doesn't fit the shape of my foot). Second, on one foot, I have two neuromas and metatarsalgia both of which are extremely painful if too much pressure is put on the forefoot/pad/ball of the foot (as thrice a day yoga did) or if anything digs in. You'll laugh at the shoes that are saving me and you would never, evah wear: the HOKA Bondi, a 4mm drop sneaker. Big shift from my Brooks Ghost with 12mm drop (but definitely more flexible)....But neither of these are hiking shoes. I can't find a shoe with a round enough toe box. Even shoes that look wide are pretty much a 2E and that doesn't cut it. New Balance 4Es are cut almost straight.....So frustrated. You think a no drop shoe could even be in my future with feet that are really and with defects (sadly, neuromas do not go away, they stay put and flare when the feel like it)?....I don't think any of the shoes you showed would be wide enough for me. After a while you can look at a shoes and know if it's gonna fit....Penny for your thoughts...Many thanks for the info.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey there. Sorry to hear about the neuroma. I have Lyme disease, so I can literally feel your pain, ha! For extra-wide feet I'd recommend a DIY kit or custom-made footwear. The last one I show in the video, the leather boots, are made by a shop on Etsy called "Noble Soles" off foot tracings, so they fix my feet exactly. Just search for "DIY barefoot shoes" or "custom barefoot shoes" and you'll get a ton of options.

[@Davmm96]

For another barefoot style, you can also consider mocassins if you are in Canada/USA !

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, the leather boots I showed at the end are sort of moccasin-like. Gotta love the feeling of leather for outdoor adventures!

[@joefalchetto94]

Thank you for this video Andrew! May I ask what do you think about Altra Torin 5's flexibility? Are they too stiff to let the foot properly roll during walks or slow/medium runs? Thank you in advance!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Marco, haven't tried the latest Torin's, but the v2's I had were plenty flexible. The only problem is the cushion is really soft, and it turns to mush in a bout 200 miles (at least mine did), which can be a recipe for plantar fasciitis. So if you do get some, just pay attention to how they're feeling over time.

[@joefalchetto94]

​@@AndrewFolts Thank you for the quickest answer! Good to know. I hope they improved the durability in the new version. I'm also planning to rotate between a zero-drop cushioned shoe and, probably, something like the Primus Lite, in order to maintain my feet awake and strengthen them up a little at a time.. I'll see how it goes. Thank you Andrew, my best wishes for your runs and your art career, you're a great human being! Cheers :)

[@AndrewFolts]

@@joefalchetto94 Cool, yea, alternating can be work well, since different shoes work different muscle groups.

[@dewy3288]

I've been watching many of your videos and other videos on barefoot shoes. I think I'm ready to get my first pair of shoes, and I'm debating between the Primus Lite III, and the Primus Trail II FG. I'm leaning towards the Trail II FG, since I know I want to do some light hiking with them and I live on a dirt road in the woods. But I was wondering if you think they might be too aggressive for other daily use.

[@AndrewFolts]

The FG's are great for dirt and flat enough for pavement, although they won't feel as good on roads as the Lite's. Lite's have zero traction for trails, though, so the FG's are more versatile.

[@dewy3288]

@@AndrewFolts Thank you so much for the reply! I think I will go with the FG's then since walking on asphalt isn't that common for me. Then I can always get a pair of Lite's down the road if I need them.

[@dewy3288]

@@AndrewFolts Just wanted to let you know I'm super excited as I just ordered the FG's and four pairs of Injinji socks!

[@AndrewFolts]

@@dewy3288 Yay! I'm actually getting a pair of FG's myself for an upcoming review, so we'll both be enjoying them. (:

[@robertbell6351]

A quick question if you wouldn't mind! What is your opinion on Birkenstocks? I know they're not barefoot per se - but obviously with them being a wide sandal they do give your feet and toes room to move naturally? Please correct me if I'm wrong - just starting my journey and looking for more information on them!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Robert! Used to wear Birks myself and they do have a nice wide toebox, but unfortunately they're quite thick, aren't very flexible, and have arch support, which can make your feet flat over time. Good news is some barefoot companies make Birk-style sandals with thinner soles and no arch support. Tara would be a good option... www.tarasoles.com/shop-2/?lang=en

[@monikabrachetti8585]

I prefer the leather boots. At least they are really grounding shoes without the blocking plastic sole.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, they have the best ground feel of any barefoot shoe, other than bare feet of course. (:

[@tycobrahe7663]

Nice coverage. I’m currently using Tadeevo barefoot shoes. I like them a lot. Wondering if you or others in the bare feet community have any opinions about Tadeevo. Thanks.

[@AndrewFolts]

Haven't tried them myself, but I think they're about 5mm thick, which is pretty good. How's the rubber feel? Hard, or does it have a little give?

[@tycobrahe7663]

@@AndrewFolts Rubber is soft, the shoe flexes and folds up in thirds, overall good feel of the terrain. Methinks worth a try/review.

[@stevefocker5424]

Andrew, appreciate the video! How did you find the Vibram V-Trek’s with the gum bottom?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Steve! What's a gum bottom? I love my V-Trek's. With the durability, traction, and thinness, they're easily my most-used shoe.

[@stevefocker5424]

Thanks for the reply, it’s the color of the rubber on the bottom of the shoe. I can only find them with black on the bottom. The ones you show in the video have a gum sole.

[@stevefocker5424]

The translucent brown soles are softer and offer more grip. But calling them “gum soles” is a misnomer since the implication is that they are made from "natural gum" (a particular treatment of rubber). Most of these gum soles are actually made from polybutadiene, which is a product that comes out of processing oil.

[@DAjugRnaut]

Hello Andrew. I wanted to pick your brain a bit. I have been wearing vivo primus shoes for almost a year now for primarily lifting and doing my knees over toes program. I love them for that. I also do a mile run after my lifting in them. I think maybe 2, possibly 3 miles on the treadmill is all I could tolerate at this point. I haven’t tried more. I am 5’9 255lbs. I’m currently training for a marathon. How often should I use the Vivo In my training. I currently use Hoka Clifton for most of my runs bc they feel good and I don’t feel beat up that much after longer runs. 🙏 thanks.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Abel, I'd say just use what feels good, Especially when you're training hard, variation can help prevent wear and tear on your body. If you can, do most of your miles outside, because treadmills enforce bad form and often to lead to more injuries. Good luck with your marathon!

[@DAjugRnaut]

@@AndrewFolts thanks!

[@sknygames]

How good would you say the wildlings traction is on wet surfaces such as tile and wet grass, compared to Vivo?

[@AndrewFolts]

Depends on the Vivo model. Compared the the Lite, Wildling's a bit better, but compared to the FG series, it's less grippy. Overall Wildling's are meant for roads and light trails, I'd say. But maybe they'll make hiking boot treads eventually.

[@thecarpenters9571]

My Altra Escalante is good for walking or wearing to work (casual days), but it’s not flexible enough for me to run in. I’ve been wearing Nike Free Runs (pre-2020 styles), but there is still a drop and they aren’t foot-shaped, although they are more flexible. I’ve mainly run on roads and paved trails, but I’m making the move to true trail-running, so I’m curious what I’m going to land on wearing going forward… You’ve introduced me to new options and new information. I’m still not crazy about toe socks so probably bot going with five fingers, though I’m super curious.

[@AndrewFolts]

Funny thing is the first time I tried toe socks I literally tore them off my feet in two seconds, because I couldn't stand the feeling of things between my toes. But then I decided to give Vibram FF's a chance, and after a week or so I was in love with them. Now, except in the winter, I wear Vibram V-Trek's and Injinji toe socks 90% of the time, and they feel so flexible/sensitive yet protective and grippy I rarely want to wear anything else. I'd say give them a good test for a week or two and see what happens. Once you get over the initial hump you'll probably never go back. (:

[@thecarpenters9571]

@@AndrewFolts thanks for the reply! I made myself wear the Injinji socks with my boots last winter. I haven’t worn them since, but maybe it’s a time to break them out again. Do FF run true to size or should I size up? (I’m typically an 8.5w but go with 9-9 1/2 w for running shoes…) Is there a good way to measure like Vivo’s? Thank you so much for the reply?

[@AndrewFolts]

@@thecarpenters9571 Vibram's fit me true to size, so you should be ok.

[@malk7253]

Hi andred, sorry for the comment in this video from 1 year ago, I want to ask you if you use socks in barefoot shoes and which are the best? like with the toes? thanks for the answer

[@AndrewFolts]

Injinji merino toe socks are what I wear www.injinji.com/merino-wool-socks because they're more breathable than cotton/synthetic and spread out my feet nicely.

[@sergeboivin566]

Have you tried Splay shoes? I like them but find the toe box almost too wide. Maybe my old feet were in tight shoes for too many years and have not gotten used to the freedom yet :-)

[@AndrewFolts]

Just heard about them yesterday, actually. They look pretty cool. From experience, I'd say feet don't really change much once you're an adult. Even with wearing wider shoes, my feet are still narrow, so brands like VivoBarefoot and Wildling fit me better. You want room, but not so much that you're sliding around in the shoe.

[@acornsandcornchips]

I walk around my house barefoot, but haven't gone out into public barefoot, and I think that my calluses are thick enough except it still hurts a little run on gravel..I love ur channel even though I just found it today and I was wondering what shoe do you actually recommend for running

[@AndrewFolts]

Nice! Most people don't have any callus, so you're already way ahead of the game. The more you walk/run, the strong it'll get. Mostly I run completely barefoot, but in colder weather I use the VivoBarefoot Primus Lite's for roads and the Vibram V-Trek's for trails.

[@acornsandcornchips]

@@AndrewFolts thank u I was having trouble deciding which one would b best

[@jc._.goated]

I just got into it but I was wonder if these nike slippers I have will affect my feet. They’re a bit big on me but they fit. My feet have been pretty wide since I usually wear slippers and rarely shoes but it will be good to know if I can still wear them casually

[@jc._.goated]

The exact ones are the Nike Men's Benassi Just Do It Athletic Sandal

[@AndrewFolts]

Looking at the pic the width seems ok, but they're very thick and tilted forward, so yea they're going to mess with your feet in those ways. There aren't many barefoot style flip flops, but one good option I've found is the Sole Runner Neso: www.sole-runner.com/en/neso-sandale-blue-red/a-301664.

[@jc._.goated]

@@AndrewFolts thanks

[@sutherlandnoah]

Is there a good shoe for constantly switching back and forth between trails and concrete? Im a park attendant and want a barefoot shoe, but dont want to destroy sole by being on concrete all the time

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, the Freet Vibe feels great on both roads and trails. kzbin.info/www/bejne/inOtlp-fjZytf80 Also the Vibram V-Trek if you're open to toe shoes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nX-TaJehhNGii5Y You can also filter by style, activity, etc, with my shoe finder tool, which makes it easy to narrow things down: bit.ly/444123G

[@darknessfierce4209]

I got out of clunky orthotic running shoes, and my hip and knee problems went away. It’s a journey, if you’re going to transition take it slowly and stop if you feel pain.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey, congrats! Taking it slow is the key to success, for sure.

[@irgendwieso4814]

Hi there. I like your vids. I am also in the Barefoot World...i walk always when it is possible for me Barefoot...i have many barefoot shoes...i mostly wear "barefoot " 😅 shoes from merrel. Merrel its a french Company. And also i like leguano they are like me from germany.......a friend told me...the Best way to take care of your feet, is to let them get dirty

[@AndrewFolts]

"...let them get dirty" Ha, it's true! Feet are like people. They're much happier out and about, rather than cooped up inside a dark, sweat shoe. (:

[@dawnkez4655]

I'd love a review for winter barefoot shoes. I live in a wet cold climate and tho I can be bare foot for some temperature, I have an hour long walk to work and can not do that barefoot without serious injury. My shoes are not waterproof and the wellies I own hurt.

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Dawn! Winter barefoot is a bit tricky, because the only thing that works on ice is traction devices (like Micro Spikes), and then you lose the barefoot feel. Xero, Be Lenka, VivoBarefoot, and other brands have winter waterproof options with decent tread if you don't have to deal with too much ice. For warmth, adding a wool felt insert with some merino wool socks can make your feet super toasty.

[@meio8507]

Hi! Wonderful comparison video, thank you! I'd like some more specific advice: I don't run but I'm into hiking and trekking. I don't go to "extreme" places but I would like an adequate support at least for rain (but I think all barefoot shoes have problems in mud, don't they?). I've only been using barefoot shoes for 4 months (precisely the only model I have, vivo primus Trail knit gf) and I'm enthusiastic without any discomfort. What shoes do you recommend?

[@AndrewFolts]

If you like your Primus Trail's, then the Primus Trail FG All-Weather would be a good waterproof option. I hike in mud with them and don't have any issues. You can get them from Vivo bit.ly/3e2ZGQC or refurbished for cheaper at Revivo. bit.ly/3R0rbt0

[@meio8507]

@@AndrewFolts thank you so much! But I would prefer something "heavier". What about the vibram z-trek insulated? Or some trekking model by vivo?

[@meio8507]

@@AndrewFolts Sorry, I try again for my last question 🙏🏻

[@AndrewFolts]

@@meio8507 It's insulated, but not waterproof, so not ideal for winter.

[@donalf4963]

Just saw your video ,I am interested in them but I have really soft feet plus I wear brooks beast because I need support, how would I go with these

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Donal! My Mom actually wore the Brooks Ariel (the women's version of the Beast) for ten years. When I got interested in barefoot shoes, she also switched, going gradually from the Brooks Ghost to the Altra Lone Peak to the Lem's Primal, and even some barefoot Vivo's. She no longer needs support and has developed tougher feet, although she prefers the Lem's best (with a small amount of firm cushion).So any of those would be a good option, but the key is to not jump straight in-just wear your new zero-drop or barefoot shoes for a few minutes per day and slowly increase as it feels good. Cheers!

[@donalf4963]

@@AndrewFolts thank you , I will give them a go

[@seeker_of_truth2759]

Hey bro, I love being barefoot but I work in a warehouse so I spend roughly 10 hrs a day on concrete, do you have any ideas?

[@AndrewFolts]

Copying my reply from the other thread... Depends on if you need a steel/reinforced toebox. If not, then most any thin, 3-4mm barefoot shoe will work well for long hours on concrete (I used the Primus Lite and Vibram V-Trek for my standing job). If so, then the Birkenstock QS 700 is the closest thing you're going to find.

[@antoinecremer]

Hey Andrew, what barefoot shoe would you recommend for winter running? I'm looking for something that has enough grip to go on snowy trails but light enough to feel agile on dry pavement as well. What do you think? Thanks!

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey there, the best option I know of would be the Softstar Primal kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5aWm2WVj9NrgtE with the Vibram MegaGrip sole, because it's got a water-resistant upper and the tread is super grippy while being flat and durable enough to handle roads.

[@antoinecremer]

@@AndrewFolts Thanks and keep up the good work!

[@antoinecremer]

@@AndrewFolts what about the be lenka trailwalker? Would the sole be ok for some mileage on the road?

[@shellynevard5089]

I have been wearing Altra Shoes for running and I recently bought a pair of Lone Peak for walking and hiking. I seem to naturally be a mid foot striker. I am 70 years old but very active. I have been having pain in my right big toe and a podiatrist diagnosed arthritis in the big toe joint. He recommended Powerstep insoles for more arch support. I can fit them in my Lone Peaks but I wonder what this does to the intended stride in the shoe. Do people use footbeds or orthotics in them?

[@AndrewFolts]

Arch inserts are a great short-term solution for extreme cases of muscle/tendon strain, but they can do severe damage to your feet if used longterm. My Dad has been wearing inserts for 25+ years, and his feet are flat as pancakes. It's really sad. With joint pain in your toes, the simplest solution is to take shorter strides, because the farther your foot is behind your body, the more your toes have to bend, and bending causes pain. Another thing to try is a barefoot shoes with no cushion, because once foam wears out, your feet can sink into it, which causes joint strain. When you think about it, the ground is actually the most "supportive" thing you can have under your feet! (: I've been dealing with mystery joint pain for the past two years, so I can totally relate. Hope you're able to feel better!

[@shellynevard5089]

It was also recommended that I get a carbon fiber insert to completely eliminate toe bending. I may try that.

[@jimjamthebananaman1]

@@shellynevard5089 you want to encourage movement of your joint even if it is arthritic. Arthritis symptoms are reduced the more you move the joint which is somewhat ironic. Carbon insoles should only ever be used if there is literally no movement of the joint at all, and by that point you would want to explore surgical methods e.g. fuse the joint, cartiva, cheilectomy etc

[@Mr-ur2rr]

I just wanna know the hood ur wearing that's awesome 👌

[@AndrewFolts]

From an Etsy shop called "Love to Sleep." bit.ly/3FkpDqA

[@Mr-ur2rr]

Thanks you 👍🏽

[@chirovandenbos2339]

I like your Chanel and energy ✨🍀🙏

[@AndrewFolts]

Appreciate you watching. Good vibes right back at'cha! (:

[@CMVaskova]

I'm curious - as a beginner, been looking into the Wildlings (because of their more casual style), but having to add extra layer of protection like glue around the stiching & on the bottom kind of threw me off. Have you coated yours to extend their durability?

[@AndrewFolts]

Haven't had any issues, personally. Tho, I think they are more of a casual brand, and as such aren't going to be quite as durable as Vibram's or Vivo's. You could check out some of Vivo's casual stuff, especially the refurbished ones on Revivo.com, since they're less of an investment for beginners. www.revivo.com/mens#q=category.Lifestyle

[@CMVaskova]

@@AndrewFolts Thank you! I didn't know about the Revivo option, will defo check it out!

[@Anthony_Soriano]

I was blown away when you said 4000 miles. Just WOW! Do you think the Primus Lite 3s will last longer than the Primus Lites?

[@AndrewFolts]

Well, they're 1mm thicker, so maybe, although I have no idea what they've done with the composition of the material. Either way, they'll still last a very long time. (:

[@Anthony_Soriano]

@@AndrewFolts Heyyy(:, VFF V-Run "Retro" just launched💅.

[@tarzaan2603]

I've been pulling my dang hair out trying to buy some barefoot trail running shoes!! My feet are huge so that honestly the biggest issue lol, i need somthing in 14 WIDE (US)

[@AndrewFolts]

Softstar Primal! They have it in 14 with an extra-wide option and Vibram trail sole: www.softstarshoes.com/primal-runamoc.html