Running Shoes, Apparel and Gear The 8 Best Barefoot Running Shoes for Men Minimalist shoes that will go the distance By Christine Luff twitter linkedin Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Christine Luff Reviewed by Reviewed by John Honerkamp on January 17, 2020 twitter linkedin instagram John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board John Honerkamp on January 17, 2020 Print More in Running Shoes, Apparel and Gear Beginners Weight Loss Motivation Long Distance Nutrition and Hydration Injury Prevention Treadmill Running Race Training View All Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Vibram KSO EVO Cross Training Shoe at Amazon "Features individual toe slots that allow your toes to splay, which is a huge plus for runners who often feel crammed in traditional running shoes." Best Budget: Merrell Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner at Amazon "It’s also a nice option for cross-training, hiking, Cross-Fit and other activities." Best for Road Running: Vibram V-Run Running Shoe at Amazon "A solid option for runners who are used to traditional running shoes and want to transition to barefoot running shoes." Best for Trail Running: Vibram V Trail Runner at Amazon "Features an extended rock protection mesh under the sole that helps reduce the shock when you run over stones or roots." Best for Distance Running: Merrell Bare Access 4 Trail Running Shoe at Amazon "With a breathable mesh upper, your feet will stay cool and comfortable." Best for Hiking: Vibram Trek Ascent Walking Shoe at Zappos "The upper securely hugs the top of the foot, so you don’t have to worry about pebbles." Best for Walking: Vivobarefoot Men’s Stealth 2 Men’s Walk Shoe at Amazon "The thin, breathable fabric lining offers a comfortable, snug feel." Best for Cross-Training: Vibram V-Train Cross-Trainer Shoe at Zappos "They provide excellent traction, even in wet conditions." Best Overall: Vibram KSO EVO Cross Training Shoe Buy on Amazon Buy on Walmart Buy on Zappos The Vibram FiveFingers KSO EVO barefoot running shoe gets our top ranking for its comfort, versatility, affordability, and performance. A versatile and flexible barefoot running shoe, it can be worn on the roads or trails, but also works well for cross-training, walking, and other activities. With just the right balance of responsiveness and protection, the KSO EVO lets you feel the ground beneath your feet, while still keeping them safe from debris. The FiveFingers design features individual toe slots that allow your toes to splay, which is a huge plus for runners who often feel crammed in traditional running shoes. With a sole that’s less than 5 millimeters thick, this shoe encourages a natural style of running, but still provides enough traction and durability to protect your feet. The KSO EVO also features a breathable and flexible upper and a lacing system that makes it quick and easy to get them on and off. They’re available in several different color combinations, including black, gray/black, blue/black, and black/red. Best Budget: Merrell Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner Buy on Amazon Buy on Nordstrom The Vapor Glove 3 Barefoot Trail Running Shoe from Merrell is a solid, affordable choice, especially for barefoot running newbies. It provides some more support than the five-finger shoes, so it’s easier to transition from traditional running shoes. If you’re not into barefoot running, it’s also a nice option for cross-training, hiking, Cross-Fit and other activities. The durable outsole features good traction, even in wet conditions. With a breathable mesh upper and Merrell’s odor-reducing treatment, you don’t have to worry about your feet getting sweaty and stinky. These shoes are available in some fun color combinations, including Molten Lava and Shaded Spruce, so you can pick one that best suits your style. Best for Road Running: Vibram V-Run Running Shoe Buy on Amazon Another FiveFingers option from Vibram, the V-Run shoe features an 8-mm thick sole and provides the right amount of cushioning and protection for running on pavement. It’s also a solid option for runners who are used to traditional running shoes and want to transition to barefoot running shoes. Your feet stay cool and dry, thanks to the polyester Lycra stretch mesh fabric. These lightweight shoes are designed to be worn barefoot, but can also accommodate toe socks when running in colder weather. Best for Trail Running: Vibram V Trail Runner Buy on Amazon If you plan on hitting the trails in barefoot running shoes, you need a shoe that offers the right amount of protection from rocks and other debris. The Vibram FiveFingers V-Trail barefoot running shoe delivers in that area, and also provides enough ground feel for a minimalist running experience. It features an extended rock protection mesh under the sole that helps reduce the shock when you run over stones or roots. With padding around the heel, toe bumpers at the end of the toes and an aggressive tread design, these shoes are sure to keep your feet comfortable and protected on the trails. Best for Distance Running: Merrell Bare Access 4 Trail Running Shoe Buy on Amazon Merrell’s Bare Access 4 trail running shoes allow you to run naturally, but still provide the toe to heel cushioning and protection that distance runners need. This shoe is perfect for neutral runners who want a lightweight, yet durable, barefoot running shoe. It’s also a nice option for those who are brand-new to barefoot running. With a breathable mesh upper, your feet will stay cool and comfortable, no matter how many miles you’re running. These shoes come in a few different colors and also feature reflective details for running in low light conditions. Best for Hiking: Vibram Trek Ascent Walking Shoe Buy on Zappos These Vibram Fivefinger Trek Ascent shoes are built specifically for those who want a barefoot experience while hiking. The shoe’s 4-mm EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning and shock absorption, while the Vibram rubber outsole offers excellent traction and grip. The upper securely hugs the top of the foot, so you don’t have to worry about pebbles and dirt getting in. These shoes also feature a speed lacing system so you can adjust them quickly and easily. Best for Walking: Vivobarefoot Men’s Stealth 2 Men’s Walk Shoe Buy on Amazon Walking in barefoot running shoes can help strengthen your feet and hopefully prevent future foot injuries. The Vivobarefoot Stealth II men’s running shoe is a nice choice for casual or fitness walking, and also works for running, if you eventually want to give it a try. The shoe features a 3-mm thick rubber outsole that provides flexible traction, even in wet conditions. The thin, breathable fabric lining offers a comfortable, snug feel, while keeping your feet dry and cool. Best for Cross-Training: Vibram V-Train Cross-Trainer Shoe Buy on Zappos If you’re looking for a barefoot running shoe for cross-training activities such as lifting, yoga, or Cross Fit, the Vibram FiveFingers V-Train is a solid choice. These shoes feature the feel and flexibility of barefoot shoes but have a bit more structure and protection. They provide excellent traction, even in wet conditions, and the shoe’s lug patterns offer added grip that’s ideal for rope climbing or lateral movements. A highly versatile shoe, you can use these shoes in the gym, on the trails or at the beach for watersports. The shoe’s speed lace system and secure Velcro closure make it easy to get in and out of them. The 5 Best Men's Running Shoes for Neutral Runners to Buy Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Whether you're looking to run faster, further, or just start to run in general, we have the best tips for you. Sign up and become a better runner today! Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit