Barefoot Shoes

Are you looking for hiking shoes or trail running shoes that offer you comfort, a healthy posture and a natural running feel? Then Sport Conrad is the right place for you, because we have high-quality barefoot shoes for outdoor use. Immerse yourself in the adventure of walking barefoot and discover a new alternative to conventional and stiff shoes. We'll tell you everything you need to know about outdoor barefoot shoes.

What are barefoot shoes?

Contrary to what you might think, barefoot shoes are not shoes that have to be worn barefoot. Although this is also possible, socks are by no means taboo. The actual purpose of barefoot shoes is to enable you to walk as naturally as possible. Just as if you were running barefoot.

What makes barefoot shoes so special?

The difference to conventional shoes is, among other things, their appearance, but also their functionality. This is because conventional shoes, such as trainers, stabilise and cushion the foot when walking. Barefoot shoes, on the other hand, largely come without such supportive and cushioning elements.

The lack of support and cushioning allows the lower leg and foot muscles to fulfil their natural tasks and take over the cushioning. Whilst ordinary shoes are very comfortable, they cause our legs and feet to lose these reflexes and abilities. The barefoot shoe aims to counteract this.

Zero heel and flexibility: what makes barefoot shoes so special 

As already described, barefoot shoes are designed to enable a natural gait. To achieve this, these shoes do without some of the elements that conventional shoes have. Accordingly, barefoot shoes have a certain look that is characterised by the following features:

• a thin, foldable sole

• toe freedom

• no heels, forefoot and heel are at the same height

• extreme lightness

• elastic and flexible materials

• a thin, often foldable sole

As barefoot shoes are now very popular, they are available in many different versions. There are now also models that have been specially designed for outdoor use.

From hiking to trekking tours - you should pay attention to this

Before you embark on your next outdoor adventure with your barefoot shoes, you should first consider whether they are designed for outdoor use. The main deciding factors here are the upper material and the sole.

If you want to use your outdoor barefoot shoes for hiking, running and trail running, it is important that they have a robust and, if desired, waterproof upper material. You should also make sure that the materials are breathable and therefore well ventilated. This is because in barefoot shoes with poor breathability, sweaty feet can quickly lead to wet shoes and unpleasant odours.

The sole of barefoot shoes for outdoor use is also important. Because on uneven terrain, it is significant that you are sure-footed when walking. Profiled rubber soles help you to maintain a firm footing on any surface. This gives you maximum control and safety when you're out and about.

What is the advantage of outdoor barefoot shoes?

As already described, barefoot shoes help to simulate the feeling of walking barefoot. This natural walking sensation stimulates our feet, as the thin soles of barefoot shoes allow the feet to adapt optimally to the respective surface and sensory stimuli are transmitted unfiltered to the nervous system. The lack of supportive elements and artificial cushioning also stimulates and trains muscles in the foot and leg. This allows you to build up your lower leg and foot muscles, making them stronger and giving you more grip, even on uneven terrain. On top of that, barefoot shoes can help improve your foot posture, balance and running technique. In short: barefoot shoes are healthy for the body.

Important note: Not all people are the same and years of wearing conventional shoes can shorten muscles and cause deformities. This is why outdoor barefoot shoes are not equally suitable for everyone. So try them out carefully and don't change your entire shoe wardrobe overnight.

Can barefoot shoes be dangerous?

As just described, barefoot shoes can be very healthy for the body, but are not universally suitable for all people. It is therefore important to proceed with caution and care. Because one thing is clear: outdoor barefoot shoes take time. If you adapt too quickly or if barefoot shoes are not suitable for you, you may experience pain and sore muscles. Although barefoot shoes are not dangerous, switching to them too quickly can lead to complications.

It is best to start with shoes such as flip-flops and get used to the feeling of walking in these shoes. You can also try walking barefoot for a few hundred metres on a safe area without sharp objects or broken glass. A football pitch, for example, is suitable for this. If this is not a problem for you, you can wear barefoot shoes without any problems. However, be careful not to wear only barefoot shoes straight away. Especially not if you are going on a hike or something similar. Try them out and give your feet time to get used to walking without a bounce, cushioning and cushioned footbed.

Finding the right size

Barefoot shoes are generally based on conventional shoe sizes. You can therefore order barefoot shoes in your usual size. However, if you want to make sure that your shoe really fits, you should always take a look at the manufacturer's size charts. There you will find exact measurements and can simply compare them with your foot. This way, you are guaranteed to find the right size.

How do I look after my outdoor barefoot shoes properly?

With barefoot shoes, you are travelling close to nature, but this also means that your shoes have to withstand a lot. Proper care of your barefoot shoes should therefore not be neglected. Here are our tips and tricks for cleaning your shoes properly:

1. After the fun comes the cleaning: After your adventures, you should clean your outdoor barefoot shoes thoroughly. Remove dirt, mud and other deposits with a soft brush or damp cloth. Use mild cleaning agents that are suitable for the material of your shoes. You should be particularly careful with leather barefoot shoes.

2. Dry and ventilate well: After cleaning, it is important to allow your barefoot shoes to dry thoroughly before you wear them again. Leave them to dry in a well-ventilated area and avoid direct sources of heat.

3. Storage: Store your barefoot shoes in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A conventional shoe cabinet or shoe rack, for example, is suitable here.

4. Care: The upper material of your outdoor barefoot shoes requires regular care to maintain its positive properties. Therefore, use special waterproofing agents that are suitable for the material from time to time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using them

It is also important to note that you can even wash some barefoot shoes in the gentle cycle of your washing machine. Use a suitable laundry bag for this, use a cold wash cycle and always pay attention to the manufacturer's labelling.

Discover the world of barefoot shoes with Sport Conrad

Outdoor barefoot shoes are suitable for anyone who wants to get to know nature in a whole new way. The natural gait and direct connection to the ground help you to perceive the world in a new way. The best thing about it? Barefoot shoes are not only healthy for the body, but also have an extremely small pack size, making them ideal for long tours and excursions. In addition to barefoot shoes, you can find many other items you need for your outdoor adventures in our online shop. From jackets to tents, we offer everything you require for your outdoor experience.