The Best Barefoot Sandals for Each Category in 2026
Different days call for different sandals, and these are the pairs I’ve been reaching for again and again. After years of testing barefoot sandals across every category, these are my top picks for 2026—from everyday favorites and dressier styles to hiking sandals.
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$149 | EU36 – 43 | leather
I designed the Tavira Sandals because I wanted a sandal that felt just as comfortable with everyday outfits as it did with something a little dressier. The leather softens and molds to your feet with wear, while the lightly cushioned footbed helps keep them comfortable on longer days. They fit narrow to medium-width feet best and are my most-worn sandals this year.
$148 | BFSG5 for 5% off | EU35 – 43 | vegan leather
Sometimes a skirt or dress just calls for a thin, strappy sandal. The best option I’ve found for this is the Highfeels sandal. I like that you can wear them a few different ways—ankle strap, ties, or backless. I usually keep these for shorter times though as they are a little stiff and have no cushion. They fit narrow to medium width well, and now are offering a wider fit version.
$109 | Code: KELLY5 for 5% off | Women’s US 5.5 – Men’s US14
The Call is a dressier sandal with shimmery straps in white and rose gold that start at around 10cm in width, even for the smaller sizes. Sole is very flexible, which has resulted the front catching a few times, which tears up the soft leather.
$160 | BSGVIVO15 for 15% off | EU35 – 43 | leather
It can be hard to get an over-the-toe strap sandals just right in a true anatomical fit, but the cupped footbed and thicker leather straps feel great on this Vivobarefoot Sensus Yin. The ankle and heel straps adjust easily with velcro, while a lightly cushioned foam insole adds a touch of bounce. They suit narrow to medium-width feet best. Code BSGVIVO25 for 25% off through June 2026.
$159 | EU36 – 43 | leather
I don’t always want my toes out, so it’s nice to have a closed-toe option that still keeps things breezy. This Fisherman has a beautiful woven design that easily elevates any outfit.
$140 | BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for 10% off | Women’s US 5.5 – Men’s US14
I’m all about a versatile sandals, and I love that these Trail Stars are both some of the most comfortable and most versatile sandals I own. The microfiber straps are so soft and fully adjustable—even people that don’t like toe loops or anything between the toes find these comfortable. Definitely opt for the leather footbed ( I like the Trail Star Maximus with a 9mm in tan.)
$89 | Code: KELLY10 for 10% off | Sizes: US 4 – 13.5
Zuzu sandals have a simple huarache design, and they’ve been refining the details like stack height, cushion, and footbed to make them the perfect adventure sandals. The Flex has a grippy outsole and a cushioned EVA mid-sole that make these comfortable for long days and rocky trails. The canvas footbed is great for water, but still soft on your feet. I also find the straps soft and comfortable. Zuzu now has USA distribution to make shipping and returns easier.
$150 | BSGVIVO15 for 15% off | EU35 – 43 | leather
I don’t usually advocate for slides, but even as a complete convert to barefoot shoes, I get the convenience. The Senus slides are foot-shaped and flexible, and stay on surprisingly well for a slide thanks to the adjustable velcro straps. Code BSGVIVO25 for 25% off through June 2026.
$140 | BAREFOOTSHOEGUIDE for 10% off | Women’s US 5.5 – Men’s US14
These Shamma Pacific Avenue sandals are the perfect replacement for any flip flop, but especially if you love your leather Rainbow sandals. These have a backstrap for a secure fit, and use a soft leather footbed and Vibram outsole for both comfort and durability.
€95 | Code KELLYMUKI for 5% off | EU36 – 48
Mukishoes has a few different sandal styles, all of which are very adjustable and well-suited to wide toe extra wide feet. They have a cute toe-loop style and a Birkenstock dupe.
Price: $189 | Sizes: US6 – 14 | Stack height: 10mm
At this point, you have your pick of barefoot sandals like Birkenstocks. I love this Wildstride version with Bison leather uppers, but more options means you can find what fits your foot, material preference and cushion level best.
