Barefoot shoes are minimalist shoes designed to allow the foot to move as naturally as possible. They typically feature a wide toe box, flexible sole, and zero-drop design so the heel and forefoot sit at the same height.

Unlike traditional footwear, barefoot shoes allow toes to spread naturally and encourage natural walking or running mechanics. Our guide to barefoot shoes contains more information.

Freet barefoot shoes are designed to prioritise natural movement and comfort.

Key features include:

• wide toe box for natural toe splay
• zero-drop soles for balanced posture
• flexible construction for natural foot motion
• lightweight materials
• durable outsoles for everyday use and outdoor activity

These features help your feet move more naturally compared with conventional shoes.

Many people choose barefoot shoes to encourage stronger, more active feet. 

Because barefoot shoes allow the foot to move naturally, they can help activate muscles that can be restricted in conventional footwear.

However, everyone is different and transitioning gradually is important for comfort and enjoyment.

Yes, they can.

Many people experience small changes over time, such as:

• wider toe splay
• improved toe alignment
• stronger foot muscles

These changes happen gradually as the foot adapts to moving more naturally.

Barefoot shoes can help engage muscles in the feet, ankles, and lower legs that may be underused in highly cushioned shoes.

Over time, some people notice:

• improved foot strength
• better toe mobility
• stronger arches
• improved balance

These changes usually happen gradually with consistent wear.

Barefoot shoes are designed to match the natural shape of the human foot. Most conventional shoes narrow toward the toes, which can restrict movement. Barefoot shoes allow the toes to spread naturally, which can improve balance and stability.

Zero drop means the heel and forefoot are at the same height inside the shoe. Traditional shoes often raise the heel higher than the toe, while barefoot shoes keep the foot level to encourage natural posture and walking mechanics.

The best way to transition is gradually.

Start by wearing barefoot shoes for short periods and slowly increase the time as your feet adapt.

Many people begin with:

• short walks
• daily errands
• casual wear

Before moving on to longer walks, hikes, or running.Answer

As with most shoes, when you try a new different style it requires a short adjustment period. 

The timeline depends on factors such as:

• previous footwear habits
• activity levels
• walking vs running
• individual biomechanics

A slow transition usually leads to the most comfortable adaptation.

Yes, many runners use barefoot or minimalist footwear.

However, running places a greater load on the body, so it’s important to transition gradually and build distance slowly.

Many runners begin with short distances before increasing mileage.

Once your feet have adapted, many people comfortably wear barefoot shoes all day.

If you’re new to minimalist footwear, increase wear time gradually so your muscles and tendons can adapt.

Barefoot shoes should allow your toes to move freely. Fit is a matter of personal preference - some people like their shoes snug while others prefer a more relaxed fit. When you receive your shoes, spend some time wearing them indoors to get used to them and decide whether they are right for you. 

A good fit usually means:

• space in front of the toes
• secure midfoot fit
• no squeezing or pressure points

They may feel roomier than traditional shoes, especially in the toe area. You might initially feel that the shoes feel a bit unstructured. This will soon wear off and your feet will appreciate their new found freedom to spread and move naturally. 

It's also important to note, the flexibility of the outsole means that the shoes move with your feet allowing a generous fit to be worn without the discomfort of rubbing.

Sizing can vary depending on the model.

We recommend checking the Freet size guide and comparing your foot length with the insole measurements listed for each shoe. 

Each product has relative size and fit information specific to the product on the product page and a product specific comprehensive Size & Fitting guide for adults & kids to determine your exact size.

Barefoot shoes are intentionally designed with wider toe boxes to allow natural toe splay. This helps improve comfort, balance, and foot function. Your toes will relax into the wider space over time.

When you get your shoes, try them on indoors to get used to them.  If they do not suit, there is no problem with returning for a refund. Our refund policy clarifies what you need to do.

You can buy on line on the correct store for your location, for dispatch to many parts of the world.  Alternatively, we have some stockists.

It’s easy to shop safely and securely on our website:

• Browse the website and simply click on the items you’d like to buy
• Select your size and click Add to Cart.
• When you’re ready to complete your order, click on the cart icon.
• Review your order and click Checkout.
• You will then be taken to our secure checkout where you’ll be asked to fill in your address and payment details or simply login if you already have an account.
• Shipping is added based on your location and choices.
• We send you an email to confirm your order once payment has been confirmed.

Orders placed before 12:00 midday Monday–Friday are usually dispatched the same day from the UK warehouse. Delivery is typically the next business day.

Orders placed on Friday may not arrive until Monday, and orders placed after 12:00 noon on Friday may not be dispatched until the following Monday.

We only ship based on the location of our warehouses, which are currently located in the UK, Europe and USA. 

You are on the UK website - this store only ships within the UK. Customers in other regions should order from the relevant regional store to ensure you can place your order. 

Shipping options and delivery times will be shown during checkout based on your location.

Available delivery options and prices are shown during checkout before payment. 

All shoes to the UK mainland are sent DPD Express 24 hour shipping. The cost is £3.50. 

Shipping to Northern Ireland is with Evri and costs £5.  

Shipping to the Isle of Man costs £10 with DPD. 

We do not ship to the Channel Islands.

Yes. Once your order has been dispatched you will receive a tracking number so you can follow the delivery of your Freets.

Orders are linked to the email address used during checkout.

To view your order:

1. Log in to your account using your email.
2. You will receive a 6-digit login code by email. Check your spam folder if you don't receive it.
3. Once logged in, you can view your order details.

If you cannot see your order, check you used the correct email address when ordering. 

You can return your shoes for a refund within 30 days, provided they are:

• unworn outdoors
• in re-sellable condition
• returned in the original packaging with tags
• no labels or tape attached to the box.

Return postage is paid by the customer, and detailed return instructions are provided in the refund policy.

You do not need to pay for your return label but £3.50 will be deducted from your refund to cover the cost of your return postage.

No. Freet does not offer exchanges.

If you need a different size, please return the original shoes for a refund and place a new order for the correct size. 

This helps ensure the fastest processing and availability. Our refund policy explains our returns policy.

Refunds are processed once your returned shoes have been received and inspected. The refund will be issued to the original payment method, we aim to process all refunds within 3 to 5 working days.

For all options we suggest the Contact page:

Freet's office operates from the UK so there is a time difference of up to 11 hours. The quickest way to contact us is via email directly freet@freetbarefoot.com.

Always quote your order number in the email if it relates to an order.

The store also has online chat but this is only staffed during UK office hours weekdays 9 - 5pm GMT.

If you believe your shoes are faulty, please contact Freet by email with your order number and details of the issue.

Each case is reviewed individually and Freet will work with you to find a fair solution. Get in touch via our email freet@freetbarefoot.com.

Freet offers three different levels of waterproofing depending on your needs. 

• Fully waterproof : For heavy rain, boggy trails and long wet hikes.
• Water resistant: For active use and mixed weather.
• Quick drying: For warmer drier conditions - cool, light and breathable. 

Read the product description to check the waterproofing level of a specific model or read our waterproofing blog here.

Many people enjoy hiking in barefoot shoes because they are lightweight and flexible while still offering grip and protection. For rough terrain, some models offer thicker outsoles for extra durability.

Yes. Barefoot shoes are popular for strength training because they provide a stable, flat base that allows natural foot engagement. For more information, read our blog on our specialist gym shoes.

Barefoot shoes are lightweight and flexible, making them easy to pack and comfortable for walking long distances while travelling.

A little regular care helps keep your Freets looking good and performing well.

Clean and dry your shoes regularly and treat materials when needed. With proper care, your Freets will stay comfortable and durable for many miles of walking, running, or everyday use.

Different materials require slightly different care.

To care for microfibre Freets:

• wipe dirt and mud away with a damp cloth
• allow the shoes to air dry at room temperature
• use a synthetic conditioner or proofer to maintain suppleness and water resistance

To care for Leather Freets:

Leather Freets can be restored with proper care. Start by wiping them clean with a damp cloth, then apply leather treatments such as wax or oil if needed.

For smooth leather styles such as Mudee L:

• wipe clean with a damp cloth
• apply leather wax or oil
• polish to your desired finish

For nubuck leather styles such as Richmond 2:

• brush dry using a nubuck brush
• start by wiping clean with a damp cloth
• if you prefer a polished look, apply wax oil and buff the leather

To care for BottleYarn Freets:

• allow dirt to dry first
• brush off the dried dirt
• hand wash with warm water and mild detergent if needed
• rinse and air dry

To care for CoffeeYarn Freets:

• let them dry naturally
• brush off surface dirt
• hand wash in lukewarm water with mild detergent if needed
• rinse and air dry fully before wearing again

Yes. You can freshen the inside using warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.

Swirl the water gently with your fingers or a soft brush to remove dirt, then rinse with clean water and allow the shoes to dry naturally.

Yes. Insoles can be removed and washed separately when cleaning the inside of your shoes.

Only certain styles can be machine washed - our non-waterproof, unlined CoffeeYarn and BottleYarn shoes can occasionally be washed at 30 degrees on a delicate cycle  and air dried.

For all other styles, machine washing is not recommended as machine washing can damage the materials and structure of the shoes.

No. You should not tumble dry your Freets.

Heat from a dryer can damage the materials and structure of the shoes.

If your shoes get wet:

1. Remove the insoles.
2. Stuff the shoes with newspaper.
3. Leave them to air dry naturally.

This helps absorb moisture and speed up drying.

Avoid placing your Freets next to direct heat sources such as radiators or heaters.

You can use NixWax leather proofers or similar products for synthetic materials.