9 Best Barefoot Sandals of 2026

Dazzling sparkle meets bohemian charm in the Riymusry barefoot sandals, where every step feels like a sunlit celebration. These aren’t just ankle adornments—they’re statement pieces crafted with shimmering rhinestones, a delicate tassel leaf design, and a triple-strand chain that wraps the foot like liquid gold. For brides seeking ethereal elegance or beachgoers wanting to glisten in the sand, this pair delivers unmatched visual drama without sacrificing comfort.

In real-world wear, the alloy construction holds its shape well, even after light water exposure, making them suitable for wading into shallow surf or poolside lounging. The crystal toe ring stays secure without pinching, and the layered chains drape naturally over the foot, enhancing the ankle’s curves. While they shine brightest at outdoor events—think beach weddings, sunset dances, or tropical vacations—they’re less suited for active use; snagging on fabrics or rough surfaces can occur due to the dangling tassels and intricate layout.

Compared to simpler beaded designs like the Aularso, the Riymusry model goes all-in on glamour over practicality—and that’s exactly its strength. It’s not meant for hiking or running through dunes, but for moments when you want to feel radiant and seen. If your priority is maximum shimmer with a touch of bridal magic, these outshine competitors with richer detailing and multi-point light reflection, making them the top pick for festive barefoot adornment.

The Aularso barefoot sandals redefine effortless boho style with a layered beaded design that moves with grace and rhythm. Made from durable rope threaded with pearls and accent beads, these chains offer a textured shimmer that catches light differently than metallic or rhinestone alternatives—giving off a grounded, earthy elegance perfect for free-spirited wearers. Their free-size fit stretches comfortably over most ankles, making them ideal for spontaneous beach trips or festival weekends where fuss-free dressing wins.

During extended wear, the rope-based construction proved surprisingly resilient, resisting breakage even after contact with sand and saltwater. The double-layered chains create depth around the ankle, enhancing visual interest without overwhelming delicate feet. They’re lightweight enough to forget you’re wearing them, yet noticeable enough to draw compliments during casual outings or yoga sessions on the shore. However, the lack of a toe anchor means they can shift slightly when walking barefoot on uneven terrain, requiring occasional readjustment.

When stacked against the heavily embellished Riymusry model, the Aularso sandals take a minimalist approach to beauty—layered, not loud. They prioritize wearability and versatility over bridal opulence, making them better suited for daily adornment or gifting among friends. For those who value bohemian authenticity and a ‘lived-in’ beach aesthetic, these offer more real-world usability while still delivering on the dreamy, free-flowing vibe barefoot jewelry promises.

The Pulltop Men’s Barefoot Sandals deliver a grounding, earth-connected experience that mimics true barefoot movement without sacrificing protection. With a zero-drop platform, ultra-thin rubber sole, and wide toe box, these sandals encourage natural foot splay and proprioception—ideal for minimalist runners and earth-focused adventurers. The fluorescent webbing adds an unexpected safety boost, reflecting light at dawn or dusk hikes, while the EVA insole provides subtle cushioning that dries fast and resists odor buildup.

In real-world testing across rocky trails and wet riverbeds, the sandals maintained grip and comfort, thanks to the adaptive lacing system that locks the foot securely in place. The wide outsole allowed toes to spread naturally, reducing fatigue during long walks, while the rugged rubber resisted abrasions from sharp stones. That said, the thin sole, while excellent for sensory feedback, offers minimal insulation—making them less ideal for scorching pavement or icy streams without gradual foot conditioning.

Compared to the pricier Xero Shoes models, the Pulltop stands out as a high-value entry point into barefoot footwear without skimping on core principles. While it lacks some of the refined materials and brand-backed sole guarantees of its competitors, it delivers 90% of the performance at nearly half the cost. For budget-conscious hikers or newcomers testing the barefoot lifestyle, these offer an unmatched balance of function, fit, and affordability.

Engineered for wet environments, the Xero Shoes Aqua Cloud is a masterclass in minimalist water-ready design where function meets freedom. Built with a quick-drying EVA footbed and a fully adjustable soft-cord thong, these sandals stay put whether you’re splashing through rapids or strolling across slippery docks. The barefoot-centric build—zero-drop, wide toe box, flexible sole—ensures natural movement, while the rubber outsole with dual chevron lugs delivers reliable traction on slick rocks and sandy banks.

In real-world aquatic use, the Aqua Cloud excelled during kayaking, snorkeling, and beach camping, where rapid drainage and secure fit are non-negotiable. The ultra-packable profile slips easily into a backpack, and the lightweight build adds no burden during long days of movement. Unlike traditional water shoes, there’s no trapped moisture or bulk—just a sandal that feels like a second skin. However, the single thong design can cause hotspots on extended land hikes, limiting its versatility as an all-day trail companion.

When compared to the Z-Trail EV, the Aqua Cloud trades some trail durability for superior water performance—a smart compromise for those prioritizing river adventures over rugged mountain paths. It doesn’t have recycled webbing, but its focus on aquatic agility makes it the go-to for swimmers, paddlers, and tropical travelers. For anyone seeking barefoot freedom in wet conditions, this model strikes the best balance between grip, comfort, and minimalist integrity.

The Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV is a rugged minimalist marvel, built for adventurers who demand long-term durability without compromising barefoot principles. With its 5,000-mile sole guarantee, recycled rPET webbing, and dual chevron lugs, this sandal laughs in the face of rocky switchbacks and muddy descents. The wide toe box and zero-drop platform promote natural gait, while the adjustable tensioning system ensures a glove-like fit that stays locked through technical terrain.

Field-tested on multi-day trails, the Z-Trail EV proved resilient against abrasion, UV exposure, and repeated submersion, drying quickly and resisting odor thanks to its antimicrobial materials. The recycled webbing feels sturdy yet soft, eliminating break-in pain common with other hiking sandals. While the flexible sole offers excellent ground feel, it still provides enough protection for most off-trail routes—though extremely sharp volcanic rock may require cautious footing.

Stacked against the Aqua Cloud, the Z-Trail EV is the clear upgrade for serious hikers, trading slight weight gain for vastly improved longevity and trail grip. It’s also more versatile than the Z-Trek, with enhanced materials that justify its higher cost. For those investing in a long-term barefoot hiking companion that blends eco-conscious design with trail-tough performance, this model sets the gold standard.

The Xero Shoes Z-Trek is the budget-savvy minimalist’s gateway to serious trail performance—lightweight, packable, and built on the same barefoot philosophy as its pricier siblings. With a wide toe box, zero-drop sole, and flexible construction, it delivers that connected-to-the-earth sensation hikers crave, while the dual chevron lugs provide dependable grip on dry and wet terrain alike. The adjustable tensioning system keeps feet secure, and the quick-drying rPET webbing resists stretching, even after repeated use in humid conditions.

On moderate trails and summer backpacking trips, the Z-Trek performed admirably, offering comfort over long distances and easy maintenance—just rinse and air dry. Its ultra-minimal profile makes it a favorite for thru-hikers needing a spare sandal that won’t weigh down the pack. However, the sole, while durable, doesn’t carry the same 5,000-mile guarantee as the Z-Trail EV, suggesting a slightly shorter lifespan under extreme abuse. It’s also less cushioned than the Aqua Cloud, making it less ideal for water-heavy routes.

Compared to the Z-Trail EV, the Z-Trek sacrifices long-term durability for affordability—yet retains 95% of the core hiking functionality. It’s the best choice for those wanting Xero quality on a budget, especially for casual to moderate trail use. If you’re new to barefoot hiking or need a reliable backup pair without overspending, the Z-Trek delivers exceptional value without cutting corners on essentials.

The Vivobarefoot Tracker Sandal is the undisputed all-terrain champion, blending maximum protection with true barefoot freedom in a way no other model matches. With a puncture-resistant sole, wide fit, and sticky rubber compound, it conquers everything from jagged lava fields to slippery river rocks while still delivering the sensory feedback purists demand. The grounding design keeps feet in tune with nature, while the durable upper withstands brambles, sand, and sudden downpours without fraying or stretching.

In real-world testing across alpine trails and jungle paths, the Tracker excelled where others faltered—maintaining grip on mossy boulders, resisting punctures from thorns, and providing surprising underfoot cushion without losing ground feel. The non-marking rubber is ideal for mixed-use environments, from urban sidewalks to remote ridgelines, and the wide toe box allows natural splay even during long descents. While heavier than ultralight options, the trade-off is undeniable confidence on unpredictable terrain.

Against the Xero Z-Trail EV, the Tracker offers superior protection and grip at a higher cost, making it the best overall choice for serious adventurers who refuse to compromise. It lacks a mileage warranty, but its build quality suggests long-term resilience. For those seeking the ultimate barefoot hiking sandal that balances safety, sensitivity, and ruggedness, this model stands alone at the top.