The 16 Best Barefoot Sandals For The Minimalist in You

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Last Updated on November 24, 2022 by Mandy Schmitz

Did you know sandals are subject to slightly different rules than other barefoot shoes? I will take you on a deep dive into that point with this review. While searching for the best minimalist and barefoot sandals, I felt pleasantly shocked to discover how barefoot sandals have become quite diverse in recent years and how I can get sandals for every occasion.

Over the years, I have tested many barefoot sandals and noticed some mistakes people need to correct when choosing their favorites. That is why I want to dedicate this guide to making it easier for you to pick the right pair of barefoot sandals. I will also discuss supportive sandals for your high arches and those with extremely thin soles. You can rely on this review and trust me to help you pick the best barefoot sandal for you from this list.

Before we continue, read our honest review of the best running shoes for flat feet and the best running shoes for wide feet. We also get you covered if you have bunions with our best running shoes for bunions, and you will definitely enjoy our guide on the best running shoes for bad knees too.

Keep reading!

What are the Best Barefoot Sandals?

If you’re looking for some great minimalist sandals, you should carefully read through this list. These are rugged pairs with straps on top and fairly thick and supportive soles.

Here are the best barefoot sandals:

1. Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2

Overview

You will love everything about the Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 because they fit well and are pretty comfortable on my feet. After trying out the first classic black style, I ordered three more pairs. I also love that they are available in 10 fun patterns and colors. These versatile sandals have straps that wrap around my lower ankle without losing them mid-stride. The comfort factor is my best experience with these sandals, including the straps with a lightweight two-way stretch knit fabric. They also designed them for comfort.

Highlights

Pricing

The Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 retails from $16.80 to $65.80.

Bottom Line

I like the Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2 for its ultimate comfort and how they pair well with any summer dress, making them a must-have for women.

2. Teva Women’s Olowahu Flip-Flop

Overview

The Teva Women’s Olowahu Flip-Flop has become my go-to barefoot sandal anytime I want to go to the mall or take a walk in the park or beach. These lightweight yet sturdy barefoot running sandals are similar to Luna sandals, made of fabric, and are better than the regular flip-flop. They have a more feminine look with the incredible crisscrossing strap design. In addition, the lightweight, smooth tubular webbing will not chafe against your skin while supporting your arch with its smooth EVA sole.

Highlights

Pricing

The Teva Women’s Olowahu Flip-Flop costs $20.17 to 72.95.

Bottom Line

I don’t care about any blisters and no sore feet walking all day in the Teva Women’s Olowahu Flip-Flop.

3. Skechers Women’s On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal

Overview

If there’s one word to describe the Skechers Women’s On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandals, it would be perfect! They are pretty impressive, and I wore them every day for about one month when I first wore them. They are like Paisley running sandals and didn’t even slip when I wore them to water parks and beaches. The memory retention and lightweight injection-molded compound help with traction control and impact absorption. You will love these hiking sandals’ soft fabric strap lining and mesh fabric upper.

Highlights

Pricing

The Skechers Women’s On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal costs $22.40 to $122.25.

Bottom Line

The Skechers Women’s On-The-Go 600-Brilliancy Sport Sandal is my favorite because it is durable, comfortable, attractive, and breathes well.

4. TEVA Women’s Quick-Drying Sport Sandal

Overview

I have no issue wearing the TEVA Women’s Quick-Drying Sport Sandals because they have carried me through various terrains and are sustainable, durable, easy to wear, and comfortable. They are supportive and comfy, allowing you to be on your feet and pain-free for long periods. These babies have a rugged sole that offers excellent stability on dry and wet surfaces, and the molded EVA insole provides ample arch support while cupping your heels. Their traction is also excellent.

Highlights

Pricing

The TEVA Women’s Quick-Drying Sport Sandal costs $27.48 to $139.85.

Bottom Line

The TEVA Women’s Quick-Drying Sport Sandal has me covered whenever I want sandals that match my active lifestyle and offer comfort, the TEVA Women’s Quick-Drying Sport Sandal has me covered.

5. Crocs Women’s Sexi Flip-Flop

Overview

I was one of those surprised that Croc designed a form-fitting and sophisticated sandal like the Crocs Women’s Sexi Flip-Flop. The sandal is one part sandal, one part flip-flop, and a splash of Italian design inspiration. As a budget-minded fashionista, I wasn’t bothered by the price tag of a sandal with better traction due to its waterproof textured footbed. It has decently soft and stretchy flexible rubber that breaks in easily with so much stability and support. The ankle straps also give it a minimalist look and feel.

Highlights

Pricing

The Crocs Women’s Sexi Flip-Flop costs $29.96 to $73.95.

Bottom Line

When I was looking for a super affordable and stylish sandal with a form-fitting Italian-inspired design, I found the Crocs Women’s Sexi Flip-Flop to be the right one for me.

6. Skechers Reggae – Trailway

Overview

For someone with bad arthritis, a close friend claimed that the Skechers Reggae – Trailway was a pure blessing! When I tried this athletic casual cross strap sneaker, I must confess that I fell in love with the contoured comfort footbed and the woven-in color detail with the patterned webbing fabric upper. Many plantar fasciitis sufferers also told me that the Skechers had been a great choice. When you try this rubber sole sandal, you won’t want to take them off again!

Highlights

Pricing

The Skechers Reggae –Trailway costs $24.95 to $96.63.

Bottom Line

The Skechers Reggae – Trailway features a toe ridge and arch support with a contoured footbed for added comfort.

7. DREAM PAIRS Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Flat Sandals

Overview

The breezy style of the DREAM PAIRS Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Flat Sandals is perfect for minimalists! All you’ve got to do is to step into these multi-color sandals to enjoy a colorful summer in comfort and style. The elastic straps allow you to adjust easily for a cozy fit and comfort. My daily walks have been filled with comfort and support from its skin-friendly and soft leather material. With more than 15 colors available, women of different styles and all ages can revel in these classic summer sandals.

Highlights

Pricing

The DREAM PAIRS Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Flat Sandals are $19.99 to $29.99.

Bottom Line

Designed with a patterned and sturdy rubber outsole, the DREAM PAIRS Women’s Elastic Ankle Strap Flat Sandals allow me to live a more casual lifestyle.

8. Plaka Flat Sandals for Women Palm Leaf

Overview

Have you read the rave reviews of the Plaka Flat Sandals for Women Palm Leaf on Amazon? If you haven’t, please do! I can confirm that these reviews are right because I found them comfortable after wearing my pair on a long park trip. Plaka used premium nylon to design the stunningly woven stretch-to-fit straps to reduce blisters and rubbings. In addition, you will like the high-quality flat sole and the strappy upper designed with elasticized, soft nylon straps.

Highlights

Pricing

The Plaka Flat Sandals for Women Palm Leaf costs $22.95 to $34.95.

Bottom Line

I love the rubber sole of the Plaka Flat Sandals for Women Palm Leaf as it offers more comfort with bouncy with every stride.

9. Chaco Women’s Z1 Classic Sandal

Overview

Many of us know that the Chaco Women’s Z1 Classic Sandal stands the test of time to provide superior versatility, adjustability, stability, and traction with flexible soles. This Chaco’s old-school, original model, similar to Shamma sandals, has a toe strap placement for extra comfort and stability. In addition, I like the rugged footbed that does not break down or soften when used consistently. Also, the popular flow-through strap flows in and out of the supple and thick footbed for outstanding stability for earth runners.

Highlights

Pricing

The Chaco Women’s Z1 Classic Sandal costs $29.34 to $149.95.

Bottom Line

The Chaco Women’s Z1 Classic Sandal is a favorite among all my sandals because of its stable, supple sole, total adjustability, and outstanding traction.

10. Teva Men’s Original Universal Urban Sandal

Overview

The Teva Men’s Original Universal Urban Sandal is the most versatile sandal I have ever seen! One of my good friends used these gladiator sandals while we were on vacation. He did some water activities, walked around town, and even wore it to a festival. It’s basically his all-day wear sandals. The rubber outsole of the sandal improves traction and durability while getting enhanced all-day wear comfort from its robust EVA footbed. Additionally, your foot can withstand abuse and get support from recycled polyester webbing and the Universal Strapping System.

Highlights

Pricing

The Teva Men’s Original Universal Urban Sandal retails from $36.95 to $100.50.

Bottom Line

The Teva Men’s Original Universal Urban Sandal boasts an outstanding throwback price tag, supreme comfort, and retro style with adjustable straps.

11. Plaka Relief Flip Flops for Women with Arch Support

Overview

While the Plaka Relief Flip Flop for Women with Arch Support has a great fit, it is also very comfortable to wear all day long, whether in wet or slippery conditions. When a friend sent a pair to me as a birthday gift, I was super excited to find them cute and true to size. They are like Xero shoes with perfect sole shapes and a toe loop for healthy feet. The medium arch, designed to reduce back and heel pain, works perfectly with arch support for all-day comfort. It is pretty easy to adjust the sandals, and I feel comfortable wearing them on almost any outing!

Highlights

Pricing

The Plaka Relief Flip Flops for Women With Arch Support costs $32.95 to $34.95.

Bottom Line

The Plaka Relief Flip Flops for Women With Arch Support boasts super arch support that lets me comfortably walk all day.

12. SANDALUP Tie Up Ankle Strap Flat Sandals for Women

Overview

I was amazed at the unparalleled value of the unique bow-tie design of the SANDALUP Tie Up Ankle Strap Flat Sandals for Women that can enhance the beauty of the ankle. Walking without slipping with the thin rubber sole and its comfort features make it perfect for wearing to the beach, club, or daily dating. It also pairs well with different styles of clothing with the open toe and slingback that reveal my feet.

Highlights

Pricing

The SANDALUP Tie-Up Ankle Strap Flat Sandals for Women sell for $18.99 to $25.99.

Bottom Line

The SANDALUP Tie-Up Ankle Strap Flat Sandals for Women feel true to size and comfortable.

13. riemot Men’s Woman’s Walking Sandals

Overview

I’ve found the reimot Men’s Women’s Walking Sandals to be so versatile, extremely lightweight, and multifunctional that they are perfect for all my summer and weekend activities. These wildling shoes have enhanced lugs, stripes, and flexible, durable soles that offer perfect traction. Their arch support design provides foot support and relieves foot pain. In addition, the cushioned insole makes me feel more comfortable when walking and absorbs the shock.

Highlights

Pricing

The reimot Men’s Women’s Walking Sandals cost $16.99 to $24.99.

Bottom Line

I like that the reimot Men’s Women’s Walking Sandals are true to sizes and better and cheaper than many brands.

14. COLGO Women’s Summer Strappy Flat Sandals

Overview

Any summer and outdoor fanatics will love the COLGO Women’s Summer Strappy Flat Sandals, their multi-color options for different occasions, and the soft faux leather upper with smooth lining for better wearing. In addition, they help avoid injuries and offer better movement control with their durable TPR outsole. You can adjust it to the right ankle to hold your feet nicely with the adjustable buckles.

Highlights

Pricing

The COLGO Women’s Summer Strappy Flat Sandals cost $13.20 to $20.99.

Bottom Line

The COLGO Women’s Summer Strappy Flat Sandals provide the best foot feel with its smooth lining and cushioned footbed with the perfect thickness.

15. Merrell Women’s Sandspur Rose Leather Sandal

Overview

Put on your Merrell Women’s Sandspur Rose Leather Sandal for a day hiking along the dunes or at the beach. Get extra comfort all day from their leather-wrapped contoured footbed, and if you’re like me, I have found these sandals offer full arch support with comfortable straps that don’t chafe or bind. Also, you will love how they are lightweight and mold to your foot.

Highlights

Pricing

The Merrell Women’s Sandspur Rose Leather Sandal is $56.79 to $167.07.

Bottom Line

You won’t have any blisters even if you wear the Merrell Women’s Sandspur Rose Leather Sandal throughout your day.

16. TEVA Women’s Voya Strappy Sport Sandal

Overview

I have always given my feet more freedom as I explore the outdoors with the iconic straps of Teva Women’s Voya Strappy Sport Sandal. These super-sleek crossover straps are made from verifiable, traceable plastic. They are adventure-ready, elegant, and flattering with comfortable, low-key footbeds. If I want to get around town all day, I like the lightweight EVA foam outsole that keeps me light on my feet.

Highlights

Pricing

The Teva Women’s Voya Strappy Sport Sandal costs $30.89 to $99.18.

Bottom Line

I love to explore the outdoors worry-free with the plant-based and synthetic materials used to design the Teva Women’s Voya Strappy Sport Sandal.

These barefoot sandals can provide breathability, comfort, protection, and traction. They are suitable to wear while relaxing, walking, and running, and pair well with many kinds of clothing.

What to Look for When Buying Barefoot Sandals?

Choosing the best barefoot sandals is not just dependent on your regular shoe size. It is also based on your foot width and the measured length. One of the most common beginner mistakes people make when buying barefoot sandals is picking those that are too short and narrow. I recommend using this guide to avoid mistakes and make the perfect choice for you:

1. Lace

One of the main factors to consider is the lace of the sandals that hold your foot in place. Therefore, ensure that your choice has high-quality locking hardware to maintain the proper tension. The lace must also have high-density construction to promote lace longevity and maximum security.

2. Comfort and Anchor

The proper thickness of the lacing material will ensure an even distribution of pressure between the toes for maximum comfort. When sandals have very thin laces, they can slice into your foot. You will have a more secure heel with your sandal when they have proper hugging and triangular anchor points. With that, you can reduce the longitudinal and lateral heel motion, which is crucial on varied terrain.

3. Outsole

Light and thin soles can fold under or flop around your foot. Ensure that the sole compound has a thermal molding property for strengthening its structural integrity and molding to your foot shape over time. Getting this right will offer durability, moldability, flexibility, and superior traction.

4. Footbed

Do you want extra traction or want your sandals to dry fast? You must determine your priorities when buying your favorite sandals. If you have sweaty feet, you may want superior wicking capabilities. A synthetic sole will be perfect for you if your goal is a fast-drying sandal. I found canvas a better option than leather for environmental reasons, durability, and performance.

Start Your Minimalist Journey Today!

Above are the best sandals you will surely like. The best sandal on my list to begin your minimalist journey today is Sanuk Women’s Yoga Sling 2. They are perfect with a dressy look for a lovely summer dress for dinner and are supportive without falling off your feet. You will love our guide on the best running shoes for beginners if you’re a beginner runner. You also read about our reviews of the best running shoes for high arches and the best running shoes for supination.

FAQs

1. What is the Point of Barefoot Sandals?

Barefoot sandals can prevent foot deformities by helping the foot develop properly while strengthening all the foot muscles. They are lightweight, provide a perfect layer of protection, and let your feet flex and bend.

2. Are Barefoot Sandals Good for Your Feet?

Yes, barefoot sandals are good for your feet because they are comfortable and can protect your feet from injuries, enhance ankle stability, and strengthen your foot.

3. Are Barefoot Sandals Good?

Not only are barefoot sandals good, but they are also versatile and can be used for running, hiking, and various outdoor activities while moving naturally.

4. Are There Sandals Made for Running?

Many sandals are made for running, including Xero Shoes Men’s Z-Trail Sandals, Vibram Women’s Five Fingers, and Viakix Siena Walking Sandals for Women.