If you’ve recently made the switch to barefoot shoes, you might be wondering if you have to give up on some of your favorite footwear styles. The good news? You don’t! One of the most beloved sandals of all time—Birkenstocks—now has several barefoot-style alternatives that offer the same iconic look without compromising your foot health.
In this guide, we’re diving into the best barefoot sandals like Birkenstocks, so you can enjoy that classic style while still giving your feet the freedom and strength they deserve.
Are Birkenstocks Good for Your Feet?
Let’s start with a question many people ask: Are Birkenstocks actually good for your feet?
Birkenstocks do have a couple things going for them:
✅ Wider Toe Box: Many of their models have a relatively natural foot shape, giving your toes room to splay.
✅ Zero Drop: Most Birks are flat from heel to toe, meaning they don’t mess with your alignment.
But here’s the flip side:
🚫 Thick, Stiff Sole: Their famous cork footbed is rigid, limiting your foot’s ability to move naturally.
🚫 Arch Support as a Crutch: While helpful short-term, over-reliance on support can weaken your foot muscles over time.
🚫 Slip-On Style: Many Birkenstocks don’t have a back strap, leading to toe gripping or altered gait.
Think of Birkenstocks as a “transition” shoe. They can help get you started, but for full foot freedom, switching to barefoot alternatives is the next step.
Barefoot Sandals Like Birkenstocks
Whether you’re a die-hard Arizona fan or love the more secure Milano style, there’s a barefoot-friendly version for you. Here are some top picks that blend Birkenstock style with barefoot function.
🥇 Softstar Camino Sandals
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Price: From $130
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Sizes: Women’s US 5.5 – Men’s US14
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Stack Height: 7mm–15mm
These are hands-down the closest barefoot-style match to the Birkenstock Milano. Thick leather straps and various sole thickness options make them perfect for transitioning. The Camino Lite is more flexible and lower to the ground, while the original Camino offers more cushion.
➡️ Great for those wanting a soft landing but still more mobility than classic Birks.
🌊 Mukishoes Nazaré
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Price: €89 (Use code KELLYMUKI for 10% off)
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Stack Height: ~8mm
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Sizes: EU36–48
The Mukishoes Nazaré sandal gives serious barefoot vibes. It has a very flexible 3.5mm outsole with a lightly cushioned cork layer. The straps are soft suede, giving it a natural, earthy look.
➡️ Ideal for those seeking minimalism with a dash of comfort.
🌿 Freet Salcombe
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Price: $100 (Use code KELLY for 10% off)
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Stack Height: 11mm
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Sizes: EU37–48
Made from sturdy full-grain leather, the Salcombe has a solid build without sacrificing barefoot principles. Wide-friendly and slightly cushioned, this is a good step-down from Birkenstock rigidity.
➡️ A solid middle ground—natural movement with a little padding.
🦬 Wildstride Leather Sandals
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Price: $179
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Made in: USA
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Stack Height: 10mm
Crafted from American bison leather, Wildstride sandals are handmade and built to last. They’re flexible but still durable, and the brand offers custom orders. They also make a slip-on version if you’re looking for something more Arizona-style.
➡️ Perfect for those wanting handcrafted, tough, and beautiful sandals.
🌱 Sambas the Bambas Freya
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Price: €119 (Use code KELLY for 5% off)
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Vegan-Friendly
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Stack Height: 10mm
Fully vegan and sustainability-focused, these sandals bring a fun and modern twist. The coconut fiber midsole and cork insole add softness, and the adjustable straps make for a secure fit.
➡️ Ideal for eco-conscious shoppers who love a chic, earthy design.
🌈 Posh Panda Sandals
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Price: From $107
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Customization: Yes! (40 leather colors, buckle options, and 4–10mm sole choices)
These are some of the most customizable barefoot sandals on the market. Super soft leather makes them comfortable out of the box, and you can tailor everything from the sole thickness to color.
➡️ Great for barefoot fans who want their sandals their way.
💫 Ruby Barefoot Sandals
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Price: $84 (Use code KELLY35 for 35% off)
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Stack Height: 6mm
Available on Etsy, Ruby Barefoot sandals are handmade and come with a lightly stiff sole. They’re minimalist, yet supportive enough for everyday use. Plus, sizing can be customized—just reach out!
➡️ Budget-friendly and great for smaller-footed folks looking for lightweight barefoot options.
🌎 Bioworld Sandals
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Price: $88
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Materials: Vegan leather & Vibram sole
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Sizes: EU35–45
Handmade in Spain, these sandals feature one of Vibram’s more flexible soles and faux suede straps. If you want a barefoot sandal with European craftsmanship, this is a great pick.
➡️ Best for vegan minimalists who love understated style and premium feel.
Slip-On Sandals Like the Birkenstock Arizona
While backless slides aren’t ideal for foot security or natural walking, we get it—sometimes you just want something easy to slip on. A few barefoot-inspired options worth checking out:
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Wildstride Slides: Handmade and rugged, but still flexible.
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Tara Soles: Arizona-style slides with minimalist soles.
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Tomar Creation (Etsy): Affordable handmade slip-ons from Slovakia.
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Butterfly Your World (Custom): Made-to-order from a small U.S. shop with limited releases.
Final Thoughts: Style and Function Can Coexist
Choosing healthier footwear doesn’t mean giving up your favorite styles—especially when it comes to iconic sandals like Birkenstocks. Thanks to the growing barefoot movement, you now have tons of amazing alternatives that are better for your feet and still look great.
Whether you’re transitioning from Birks or just exploring more natural footwear, these barefoot dupes let you stay stylish while helping your feet move and grow the way nature intended.
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