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Explore the right brands for your feet + how to get the size just right

Finding the right barefoot shoes isn't just about choosing a style-it's about finding the right fit for your foot type, shape, and lifestyle. Whether you have wide feet, a high instep, a narrow heel, or you're just starting your barefoot journey, we've got you covered.

STEP 1: KNOW YOUR FOOT TYPE

Barefoot shoes work best when they support your natural foot shape-so let's figure that out first. Check out some of the common foot shapes we see below;

WIDE FOREFOOT/ NARROW HEEL

AKA: Triangle Feet or Pizza Feet

Broad across the toes, slim at the back.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Be Lenka - Wide toe box + secure heel = perfect match. 
  • Shapen - Super roomy at the front, great for broad forefeet. 
  • Bprimal - Anatomically shaped to suit wide forefoot shapes.
  • Joe Nimble - Designed with a natural toe box and athletic heel lock.
  • Lems - Work well for this shape foot with their widest last (eg. Primal Zen)

WIDE / HIGH VOLUME FEET

Fuller, deeper feet with a high instep or arch.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Freet – Stretchy, forgiving uppers that conform to foot volume. Wide through the midfoot so work well for high instep or arch.
  • Lems – Remove the insole when more width or volume is required. Look for models with their widest last (Primal 3 / Primal Zen / Chelsea Boot)
  • Shapen – Built with depth and width in mind.
  • Be Lenka – Wide shoes that accommodate high volume feet.
  • Altra – Go for the models marked as WIDE (such as Lone Peak - Wide)

SLIM / LOW VOLUME / SHALLOW FEET

Flat, slim feet that can swim in deep shoes.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Vivobarefoot – Snug fit, ideal for low volume feet.
  • Lems – Some styles suit slim feet well such as Laguna, Kourt, (avoid boots without laces)
  • Joe Nimble – Athletic feel helps secure thinner feet.
  • Altra – Altra work well for this foot type as they are narrow through the midfoot so hold the shoe securely.
  • Be Lenka – Some models such as the Viva model are great for narrow feet

SQUARE TOES / ROMAN TOES

First few toes are similar in length, needs a straight toe box.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Be Lenka – Their foot shape is spot-on for this type.
  • Shapen – Ultra-wide and very straight toe line.
  • Freet – Roomy toe box with natural shape.
  • Bprimal – Designed to let all toes spread naturally.
  • Barebarics – Shares Be Lenka’s wide, boxy toe box—great for square-shaped feet.
  • Lems – Some models will suit – look for the models with the widest last (Primal 3 / Primal Zen etc)

MORTON’S TOE / GREEK FOOT

Second toe is longer than the big toe.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Lems – Rounded toe shape works well here.
  • Bprimal – Balanced shape that accommodates a longer second toe.
  • Joe Nimble – Good depth and space in the forefoot.
  • Shapen – Wide enough, but check toe line per model.
  • Barebarics – Accommodates the longer second toe

Tip: A little extra length helps prevent pressure on the second toe

EGYPTIAN FEET

Big toe is longest, with a gentle taper across the rest.

BEST BRANDS:

  • Vivobarefoot – Natural taper aligns well with this shape.
  • Lems – Rounded toe design follows the Egyptian profile.
  • Bprimal – Subtle taper, fits this foot shape comfortably.
  • Joe Nimble – Slight taper and enough vertical space.
  • Be Lenka – Wide toe box still accommodates Egyptian shape, especially when extra width is preferred.
  • Altra – FootShape™ toe box mimics natural toe splay while supporting a tapered toe line.

Note: Avoid very square toe boxes—they may feel too loose for this foot type

STEP 2: BRAND FIT GUIDE

Here's a quick overview of how our brands fit, based on years of experience helping customers just like you:

BRAND FIT & SIZING  BEST FOR  NOTES

Bprimal

Medium-widefit. Low volume & Runs small— sizing up is common.

Most foot types, everyday wear, people wanting maximum ground feel and flexibility

Designed with anatomical shape for natural toe splay

Lems

Medium to wide. Runs small — we recommend sizing up in most models.

Transitioning to barefoot shoes, casual wear, gym, work and outdoor activities.

Offers varying sole widths across styles. Removable insoles help adjust for foot volume.

Vivobarefoot 

Narrow to medium-wide. True to size.

Narrow/medium feet, urban barefoot wearers, those wanting minimal cushioning and maximum ground feel.

Great for experienced barefoot users or active people. Sleek, stylish design.

Be Lenka 

Wide fit with a spacious toe box. Trueto size.

Wide forefeet, square or Egyptian foot types, barefoot purists.

Some women's models (like Viva) suit narrower feet. Trendy casual styles

Barebarics (by Be Lenka)

Wide fit, spacious toe box. True to size.

Wide and high-volume feet, transitioners, street-style wearers.

Thicker, less flexible soles than Be Lenka. More structured, fashion-forward.

Shapen

Wide and generous. True to size in most models.

High-volume feet, wide forefoot, barefoot purists, fashionistas and dressy occasions.

Some models available in standard width narrower feet. Thin soles with a minimalist feel.

Joe Nimble 

Athletic, slightly snug. Generally true to size.

Active users, medium-width feet, people wanting running performance with barefoot principles.

Addict range is great for those transitioning or seeking extra cushioning.

Freet

Roomy — ideal for wide or extra-widefeet. Some may need to size up.

Adventurers, hikers, or anyone needing a versatile, forgiving fit.

3mm or 6mm insoles available to customise ground feel and fit. Great for high volume/wide feet.

Altra

Varies from narrow to wide. True to size.

Runners and active people. Anyone transitioning to Barefoot Shoes

Choose wide models (e.g. Lone Peak - Wide) for high-volume feet. Women’s models suit narrower feet. Offers cushioning and good transition support.

Shamma

Medium to wide. True to size.

Most foot types, minimalist sandal wearers.

Adjustable straps for volume. Available in different footbed thicknesses.

STEP 3: CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE.

Choosing the right size is just as important as choosing the right shoe. We offer several ways to help you get the perfect fit - and we recommend using more than one method to cross-check. If something seems off (like a size recommendation wildly different from your usual size), it probably is. For example, if you usually wear EU40 and a printout tells you EU36, double-check your print settings or try another sizing method.

Most importantly, check our Size and Fit Guide on each product page, where you'll find real-world advice based on feedback from thousands of customers.

  • STEP 1

    Use the Printable Size Guide (If You Have a Printer)

    Download and print the guide for the specific model you're interested in. Make sure your printer is set to 100% scale (not "fit to page"), then stand on the page and see where your longest toe lands.

    If you're between sizes, consider whether you'll be wearing socks or prefer a snug or roomy fit.

  • STEP 2

    Try the Strutfit Online Sizing Tool

    Click the "WHAT IS MY SIZE?" button above the size selector on the product page. You'll need an A4 sheet of paper and a smartphone.

    Once done, Strutfit will recommend your size-and remember your fit for all other models as you browse.

  • STEP 3

    Use the Sizing Chart for Insole Length + Width

    Each product page includes a sizing chart showing the insole measurements (length + width).

    You can compare these with a pair of shoes that fit you well-or with size charts from other brands

    you're familiar with.

    Keep in mind: this method doesn't account for foot volume or upper materials, so it's best used along-

    side one of the other methods.

A NOTE ON MEASURING YOUR FEET MANUALLY

We don’t recommend manually measuring your feet with a ruler or tape unless you’re using a proper sizing tool (like a

Brannock device). In our experience, most people measure incorrectly, leading to the wrong size being chosen.

PRO TIPS FOR BEST FIT

  • Leave wiggle room: We recommend approx 12mm of space in front of your toes. No less than 6mm and no more than 18mm.
  • Socks or no socks? Measure how you plan to wear them!
  • Don’t size up blindly: A bigger size doesn’t always mean a better fit. Focus on foot shape too.

READY TO FIND YOUR FIT?

Whether you shop by brand, foot shape, or lifestyle, our collection is here to help you move better, feel better, and connect to the ground beneath you.

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FAQs

I’m between two sizes. Should I size up or down?

We usually recommend sizing up if you're in between. It’s better to have a little extra room (especially in barefoot shoes) than not enough. If you're unsure, you're welcome to order two sizes and try them on at home, then return the pair that doesn't fit. Just make sure you try them on a clean surface indoors so they're still eligible for return.
The shoes feel too big — is that normal?

Yes — especially if you’re new to barefoot shoes. That roomy feeling around the toes is actually intentional. Your toes should have space to spread, move, and work naturally. Give it a bit of time — after a few weeks, your feet will thank you, and you won’t want to go back to those toe crushers ever again!
How much space should I have in front of my toes?

Ideally 12mm in front of your longest toe. If you’re getting more than 18mm or less than 6mm, the size may not be right.
I printed the size guide but the size looks way off — what went wrong?

Make sure your printer is set to  100% scale or “actual size.” If it was scaled or resized, the measurements won’t be accurate. Double-check your settings or use another sizing method to confirm.
Can I wear socks with barefoot shoes?

Absolutely! Just remember to size accordingly. If you’ll be wearing thick socks often, consider allowing a little extra room.
Should barefoot shoes feel tight at first?

No — they should feel comfortably secure but never tight. If you feel pressure, pinching, or can’t wiggle your toes, they’re too small.
Can I return them if they don’t fit?

Yes, as long as they’ve only been tried on indoors and are in brand-new condition.  Visit our Returns & Exchanges page for full details.
What if I have orthotics? Can I use them in barefoot shoes?

Most of the models we stock can accommodate orthotics — you can use the filter menu to find those options. However, one of the core goals of barefoot footwear is to help you rebuild natural strength, stability, and function in your feet — which can often reduce or eliminate the need for orthotics over time. We strongly encourage working with a professional who can guide you through a safe, gradual process to wean off orthotics by strengthening your feet, improving mobility, and restoring natural movement. Need support? We can recommend trusted professionals who specialise in this transition and understand the barefoot approach.
I have a foot condition (bunions, flat feet, etc.). Which shoes are best?

We’re happy to help you choose. Reach out with your foot concerns, and we’ll recommend models that offer the space, support, or flexibility you need.
How accurate is the Strutfit sizing tool?

Strutfit is a helpful tool and generally quite accurate when used correctly ,especially with a clear scan and good lighting. It uses AI to assess your foot shape and match it to the internal dimensions of each shoe. However, like any tool, it’s not perfect — and we do occasionally see sizing errors. That’s why we always recommend cross-checking your result using another method, such as our printable size guide or the insole measurements provided on each product page.
Can you help me choose?

Absolutely. Send us a message via the Helpdesk — and if you can, include a photo of your foot, and some information about the brands and sizes you currently wear, We’ll recommend the best size and shape based on your unique feet.

STEP 4: HOW TO TELL IF YOUR SHOES FIT PROPERLY (ONCE THEY ARRIVE)

Whether you shop by brand, foot shape, or lifestyle, our collection is here to help you move better, feel better, and connect to the ground beneath you.

FIRST TIME WEARING BAREFOOT SHOES? READ THIS FIRST

If you’re new to barefoot shoes, they may feel “too big” at first — but that’s usually a sign they’re doing exactly what they should. Traditional shoes squeeze your toes together, while barefoot shoes give your toes room to splay and move naturally. It can feel strange at first — spacious, even “loose” — but this is what healthy foot movement should feel like.

Tried your new barefoot shoes on? Here’s how to check if you’ve got the right size and fit:

  • SIGNS THEY FIT WELL 

    • You’ve got 1-2cm space in front of your longest toe.
    • No pinching or pressure spots.
    • Your toes can fully spread and lie flat.
    • Your heel feels secure without slipping.
    • They feel roomy, but your foot doesn’t slide around

  • TOO SMALL 

    • Toes touch or press against the front.
    • Foot or toes feels restricted or squashed.
    • Tingling, numbness, or pressure points appear quickly.
    • You shouldn’t need to “break them in” — barefoot shoes should feel comfortable straight away.
    • Don’t rely on them stretching over time — if they feel too tight now, they’re likely too small.

  • TOO BIG

    • Foot shifts noticeably when you walk.
    • Large gaps or creasing in the upper.
    • Heel slips up and down.
    • More than 2cm space at the front of your longest toe

WEAR INDOORS FIRST

Try your shoes on indoors on clean surfaces until you’re sure they’re right for you. Once worn outside, they’re no longer eligible for return or exchange.

STILL NOT SURE ABOUT THE FIT?

If you’re unsure whether you’ve chosen the right size or shape, we’re here to help. Snap a photo of your foot standing on the insole (removed from the shoe) and send it to our team via the Helpdesk.

We’ll check the sizing, shape match, and give personalised advice to help you get the perfect fit.

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