Barefoot shoes, also known as minimalist shoes, are designed to allow the foot to function as freely and naturally as possible. They seek to restrict the foot's natural freedom of movement as little as possible, enabling natural foot movement. These shoes typically have the following characteristics:
- Wide, naturally shaped toe box
- Zero heel drop, meaning there is no difference in height between the heel and the toe
- Flexibility, allowing the foot to move naturally
- Thin sole, providing better ground feel and awareness of how one is walking
