Ultimate Guide to Affordable Barefoot Shoes Under $100: Step Into Comfort Without Breaking the Bank

Imagine the freedom of walking barefoot, feeling every contour of the ground beneath you, enhancing your balance and posture, and strengthening your feet with every step. Barefoot shoes offer just that, but the price tag on many can make you think twice. Fear not! You don’t have to empty your wallet to experience the joy and benefits of barefoot footwear. We’ve scoured the market to find the best affordable barefoot shoes under $100, combining style, comfort, and affordability. Whether you’re a seasoned barefoot enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you discover the perfect pair that lets you walk naturally and comfortably without breaking the bank.

Affordable Barefoot shoes

Under $60

Xero Aptos  $33-45

The Xero Aptos shoes are a comfortable addition to the minimalist footwear market. Initially, I found them slightly tighter than other Xero shoes in the same size, but this snugness at the toe area stretched out nicely over time. They work well with thin or no socks, making them a versatile choice for various occasions. I have the Aptos in size 12, similar to my Prio, and the recommended size-up to 13 in the HFS.

One of the standout features is the lack of Achilles or heel area pain, which is often a concern with minimalist shoes. The sole strikes a perfect balance for a casual shoe, being slightly thicker than my Ra II and on par with the HFS. The ground feel is excellent, providing a satisfying connection to the surfaces I walk on. Also, I found the sole to be flexible and not stiff at all.

The major downside, however, is the appearance. The design falls short of resembling a stylish Vans slip-on and leans more towards a slipper-like look. Despite this, I continue to wear them due to their comfort and functionality.

Lastly, the price point is hard to beat. Overall, the Xero Aptos delivers in comfort and ground feel, but you might have to compromise on aesthetics.

Saguaro Smart Ⅰ – Barefoot Shoes $46

Aptos Shoes Review

These shoes blend smart design with a minimalist look, using eco-friendly fly-knit fabric and pure colors that fit right into my daily routine. The barefoot design, enhanced heel pad, and unique five-finger look make every step feel like I’m walking on air.

The broad toe box is a game-changer, allowing my toes to spread naturally and move freely. They are so lightweight and comfortable that I wear them pretty much every day, whether I’m around the house or out and about. I even took them hiking twice, and they provided excellent support and traction, especially on rough trails. Plus, my bunion hasn’t ached at all, which is a huge relief!

With colors like black and pink, there’s something for everyone. These shoes are perfect for gym workouts too, giving me great grip and support during deep squats.

Saguaro Wish Ⅰ – Barefoot Shoes $53

Wish I – Barefoot Shoes have quickly become my go-to for effortless style and casual comfort. These minimalist sneakers are incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with everything from dresses to trousers. The classic black and white design makes them ideal for everyday wear, whether I’m commuting or enjoying a casual weekend outing.

The wide toe box is a game-changer, allowing my feet to move naturally without any pressure or constraint. It feels great to have my feet move freely and naturally, promoting their strength. The 6mm soft sole is flat with zero drop, keeping my body in its most natural state.

They are perfect for my daily cycling, providing excellent comfort and toe room for peddling. Walking for exercise in them is a breeze, knowing my feet are well looked after.

The soles are strong, hard-wearing, and flexible, with tons of toe room. The lace-up design adds that extra bit of style I needed in a barefoot shoe. They aren’t the traditional, less appealing barefoot shoes you often see—they are lovely and stylish.

Saguaro Forestep Ⅰ – Barefoot Shoes $60

Forestep I Barefoot Hiking Shoes Review

Forestep I barefoot hiking shoes are my new favorite companion for both urban strolls and hiking adventures. They strike the perfect balance of style and functionality, with a range of colors that suit both men and women effortlessly. These shoes are incredibly lightweight and flexible, weighing less than 500g per pair, which enhances the barefoot experience wherever I go.

The 6mm sole with a specially designed pattern provides superior traction and a zero-drop feel, making them ideal for rugged outdoor trails. Despite their durability, they are so flexible that I can easily pack them in my backpack or hang them from a heel loop when not in use.

Crafted from breathable mesh and split leather, these shoes offer a barefoot-like sensation, allowing my toes to move freely and naturally. Even though they are designed for hiking, I find myself wearing them all day at home too—they’re that comfortable. It’s rare for me to keep shoes on indoors, but these feel so natural that I forget I’m wearing them.

One tip I’d share is to consider sizing up slightly. I usually wear an AUS 8, but I opted for size 39 (which equates to 8.5), and I feel like I could go half a size larger for a bit more room. Overall, Forestep I barefoot hiking shoes are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to embrace barefoot comfort without compromising on style or performance.

WHITIN Men’s Minimalist Trail Runner

I picked up a pair of WHITIN Men’s Minimalist Trail Runners a year ago, primarily for a water-based hike. Straight out of the box, I was pleasantly surprised by their appearance—the vibrant red really pops. They’re lightweight, comfortable for walking despite the thin sole, and have a sleek design that impressed me.

The wide toe box is a standout feature, allowing my toes to spread and relax naturally. Made entirely from animal-free products and processes, they come with a removable sockliner for those who prefer an even more barefoot feel. The true rubber sole offers solid protection while still providing excellent ground feedback.

On the hike, they performed admirably. I tend to push my gear to the limit, and while part of the sole cracked, it was somewhat expected given the conditions I put them through. The grip is definitely superior to generic shoes for hiking or trail running, though not quite on par with my previous Salomon Speedcross 4s.

One of the best aspects is the breathable material, which makes the shoes easy to clean. The detachable sole adds to the overall practicality. However, the sizing was a bit off for me, running slightly large. If you’re between sizes, I recommend going a size down.

Overall, the WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runners are excellent for light trail walks or hikes. They can handle water if needed, though it’s best to avoid it when possible. They’ve become a reliable backup pair, and I’d recommend them to anyone starting out in barefoot trail running.

Under $100

Xero Sunrise $70

Splay – Freestyle $75

Unshoes Terra Vida slip ons— $74 

Wilding Feder $89

Saguaro Dream Ⅰ – Barefoot Shoes $76

Origo Shoes Canvas Sneakers— $78

Lems Shoes— $70 to $85 during sales

Xero Hana $90

Xero Prio $90

Xero – Prio Neo $99

Xero – Dillon $99

Vibram Men’s FiveFingers KSO Trail Hiking Shoe $99

Bareshoes Casual Suede $99 — https://barefootwear.com/products/bareshoes-casual-suede-black

Affordable Barefoot Sandals 

Earth Runners Elemental Lifestyle Sandals — $66 

Xero Shoes Sandals — $20 to $50 

Shamma Sandals Cruzers — $54 

Unshoes Wakova Feather — $57

Where you can find cheap barefoot shoes?

AliExpress:

• AliExpress offers what appear to be cheap barefoot shoe options, often around $20. While I haven’t personally tried these, they are likely similar to some of the budget brands available on Amazon, such as Whitin or Saguaro. Keep in mind that items from AliExpress can take a while to ship, as they usually come directly from China. If you decide to try any of these options, please share your experience.

Amazon:

• Amazon features a variety of barefoot shoe brands that often look quite similar. Many of these may be produced at the same factories and simply rebranded. Some popular affordable options on Amazon include:
  • Whitin: Known for their affordability and decent quality, Whitin shoes are a popular choice among budget-conscious barefoot shoe enthusiasts.
  • Saguaro: Another budget-friendly brand that offers various styles of barefoot shoes. They are generally well-reviewed for their price point.
• There are always new brands popping up on Amazon, so if you discover a new one that you like, feel free to share your experience in the comments below.

Discounted or used barefoot shoes

Buying used barefoot shoes is a savvy way to save money. With a bit of searching, you can often find nearly-new or gently used pairs at significant discounts. Here are some of the best places to score deals on barefoot shoes:

Facebook Groups

Facebook buy/sell/trade groups are a goldmine for used barefoot shoes. The groups below are active and worth keeping an eye on, or you can post a request if you’re looking for something specific:

• Minimalist Shoe Buy/Sell/Trade (USA)
• KIDS Minimalist/Barefoot Shoes BUY/SELL/TRADE (USA)
• Europe Buy/Sell/Trade Minimalist, Barefoot Shoes

eBay

eBay is another great spot to hunt for used barefoot shoes from individual sellers. Additionally, Splay has an outlet on eBay for factory seconds—shoes that are like new but have minor cosmetic defects. Prices range from $30 to $45 with free standard shipping, though returns, refunds, and exchanges are not available.

REI Outlet

REI Outlet occasionally offers discounted barefoot and minimalist shoe brands like Altras, Lems, and Xero Shoes. Used options are typically around 50% off.

Sierra.com

Sierra, an online outdoor retailer similar to TJMaxx, frequently has deeply discounted barefoot shoes from brands like Altras and Vivobarefoot. Inventory comes from liquidations or other retailers’ prior season stock, with prices often over 50% off. It’s worth checking regularly as stock can be unpredictable.

Revivo by Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot operates Revivo.com, a platform where people can sell their used Vivobarefoot shoes back to the company for cleaning, repair, and resale. Prices are set based on the condition of the shoes.

ReEarth Runners

Earth Runners has a site called ReEarthRunners.com, selling sandals that might be discontinued models, lightly used returns, or have minor cosmetic defects. Although the selection is limited, you can find affordable barefoot sandals starting at $48, compared to $74 at full price.

Other Resale Platforms

Popular resale apps like Poshmark and Mercari also offer deals on barefoot shoes. Brands you’re likely to find include Altra, Vivobarefoot, Vibram Five Fingers, and Merrell’s minimalist Vapor Gloves line.

Why Are Barefoot Shoes So Expensive?

Barefoot shoes often come with a higher price tag compared to traditional footwear for several reasons:

1. Economies of Scale:

• Most barefoot shoe brands are relatively new and smaller in size. They do not produce shoes at the same volume as established, larger traditional shoe companies. This lack of high production volume prevents them from benefiting from economies of scale, which typically helps in reducing costs.

1. High-Quality, Sustainable Materials:

• Barefoot shoe brands often prioritize using high-quality, sustainable materials. These materials tend to be more expensive than the synthetic alternatives used by many traditional shoe manufacturers.

1. Manufacturing Costs:

• Many barefoot shoe brands, especially those based in Europe, manufacture their products in countries like Portugal, where wage rates are higher compared to common manufacturing hubs like China and Vietnam. This results in increased production costs.

1. Market Size:

• The market for barefoot or minimalist shoes is still relatively niche. Although it has experienced significant growth in recent years, it remains much smaller compared to the traditional shoe market. For context, Nike sells over 780 million pairs of shoes annually. Despite the high prices of some Nike shoes (often $100+), they are still able to produce them cost-effectively in countries with lower labor costs, using synthetic materials.

Given these factors, smaller barefoot shoe brands often face higher costs for materials and labor. Even when they charge prices similar to those of major footwear companies, their profit margins are typically lower. This explains why barefoot shoes tend to be more expensive despite being produced by smaller companies.

15 Tips for Finding Affordable Barefoot Shoes

1. Shop Off-Season Just like with other clothing items, buying shoes off-season can lead to significant savings. Look for sandals in the winter and boots in the summer. Retailers often discount these items to make room for new inventory.
2. Sign Up for Newsletters Subscribe to newsletters from your favorite barefoot shoe brands and retailers. They often send out exclusive discount codes, notifications about sales, and updates on new product releases. Some brands also offer a discount just for signing up.
3. Use Cashback and Coupon Websites Websites like Rakuten, Honey, and RetailMeNot can help you save money by providing cashback offers and coupon codes. Before making a purchase, check these sites to see if there are any available discounts.
4. Check Out Factory Outlets and Clearance Sections Many barefoot shoe brands have factory outlets or clearance sections on their websites. These sections often feature discontinued models or shoes with minor cosmetic flaws at a fraction of the original price.
5. Be On the Lookout Sometimes, traditional shoe companies produce shoes that accidentally meet barefoot shoe standards. These “accidentally barefoot” shoes can be a budget-friendly option. Look for these key features:
6. Check Kids’ Sizes If You Have Small Feet If your feet are on the smaller side, explore children’s sizes. For instance, Altras in the largest child size go up to EU39 (about a women’s US 7.5/8) and cost significantly less than adult versions. While kids’ shoes can be narrower, this can be a perfect fit if you have smaller, narrower feet.
7. Buy One Type of Shoe at a Time Transitioning to barefoot shoes can cause your feet to spread and grow. This means your shoe size might change after a year or so. To avoid buying shoes that might soon be too small, start with one or two pairs and gradually build your collection. Always remeasure your feet before each purchase, especially in the beginning.
8. Choose What You Like and Need It’s important to buy shoes that you genuinely like and that fit your needs, even if it means waiting and saving up. Settling for a cheaper, less satisfying option often leads to spending more in the long run. If you tally the cost of multiple “almost right” purchases, it usually equals or exceeds the price of the pair you originally wanted. While $100+ for shoes might not fit everyone’s budget, saving up for a pair you truly want can be more economical in the end.
9. Consider DIY Modifications If you’re handy, you might be able to modify a pair of conventional shoes to make them more barefoot-friendly. Removing insoles to reduce heel drop, or widening the toe box with shoe stretchers, can help make a standard shoe more compatible with barefoot principles.
10. Look for Multi-Use Shoes Opt for shoes that can serve multiple purposes, like a pair of minimalist sneakers that are suitable for both casual wear and light hiking. This way, you can reduce the number of pairs you need to buy.
11. Participate in Online Forums and Communities Join online forums, Facebook groups, or Reddit communities focused on barefoot or minimalist footwear. Members often share tips on where to find deals, and you might even find someone looking to sell or trade a pair.
12. Wait for Major Sales Events Plan your purchases around major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or end-of-season sales. These events often feature substantial discounts on barefoot shoes.
13. Consider Second-Hand Stores Don’t overlook local second-hand stores or thrift shops. You might get lucky and find a pair of barely-used barefoot shoes at a very low price. It’s always worth a quick visit or call to see what they have in stock.
14. Buy in Bulk with Friends If you have friends or family members who are also into barefoot shoes, consider placing a bulk order to take advantage of bulk discounts or reduced shipping costs.
15. Set Price Alerts Use price-tracking websites or apps like CamelCamelCamel or Honey to set alerts for specific barefoot shoe models. You’ll be notified when the price drops to a level you’re comfortable with.

By combining these strategies, you can maximize your chances of finding high-quality, affordable barefoot shoes that fit your lifestyle and budget.

Happy shoe hunting!