Barefoot Shoes on the Rise: Statistics, Data and Market Growth Insights

Barefoot Shoes on the Rise: Statistics, Data and Market Growth Insights

The barefoot shoe market has seen an unprecedented surge in interest and sales over recent years, reflecting a broader trend towards minimalism and natural health practices in global consumer behaviors. 

In this article, we will explore the rapid growth of the barefoot shoe market, analyzing the key factors driving its expansion and the trends shaping its future. We’ll look into some statistics, such as market size projections, and the rising popularity of barefoot shoes, supported by both sales data and online search trends.

Additionally, we’ll highlight the top players in the industry—ranging from global brands with diversified portfolios to specialized barefoot-focused companies.

Analysis & Projections of the Growth of the Barefoot Shoe Market

The remarkable growth of global barefoot shoe market over the past decade was driven by increased consumer awareness of the benefits of natural foot movement and the rising popularity of minimalist lifestyles.

According to a report by Allied Market Research, the market was valued at $471.1 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $788.7 million by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2022 to 2031.

According to Future Market Insights, the projection is similar, and the global barefoot shoes market is expected to grow from USD 553.5 million in 2024 to USD 945.4 million by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%

Barefoot Shoes Statistics & Data: Projected Market Growth

The growth projections for the barefoot shoes market are not only reflected in revenue numbers but also in global search interest trends.

Insights from Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs reveal a sharp rise in the popularity of keywords associated with barefoot shoes. This growth in search volumes aligns with the market's overall expansion and highlights increasing consumer awareness and demand in this niche footwear category.

Trend of Barefoot Shoes Popularity - Search Volume

Quarterly data shows a consistent upward trajectory in search volumes of global keywords associated with barefoot shoes, particularly from Q4 2020 through Q3 2024. For instance, global quarterly searches more than tripled, rising from approximately 4.55 million in Q4 2020 to 14.31 million in Q3 2024.

Top Countries Showing Interest in Barefoot Shoes

Next, we looked into search data for barefoot shoes across countries. Using data from Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs, we compiled monthly search volumes on Google for barefoot shoes across different countries.

It's important to note that these figures are approximate and reflect search activity on Google, which means countries where Google is not the dominant search engine may be underrepresented.

Countries where are barefoot shoes most popular according to search data

The United States and Germany share the top spot, with an impressive monthly search volume for Barefoot Shoes of 246 000 each. This suggests a strong interest and demand for minimalist shoes in both markets.

The United Kingdom follows with 74 000 searches, while countries like the Czech Republic (27 100 searches for "barefoot boty") and Austria (22 200 searches) indicate growing interest in Central Europe. Slovakia also shows steady interest with 6 600 searches for "Barefoot topánky."

Countries such as Canada, Australia, and Spain hover around 20 000 monthly searches, showing significant but less intense interest compared to the leaders. 

Revenue Trends Among Leading Barefoot Shoe Brands

The revenue data for major barefoot shoe brands highlights impressive growth trajectories and market presence of both established companies and emerging niche players in the industry.

Chart of the Best Barefoot Shoes Brands and Their Revenue

 

The data reveals a clear distinction between multi-category brands like Merrell and Vibram, whose revenues reflect broader product portfolios (not just minimalist footwear), and barefoot-specific brands like Vivobarefoot, Be Lenka, and Xero Shoes, which show consistent and focused growth within the barefoot niche. 

Despite differences in market size and product focus, one common theme emerges: a consistent upward trend in revenue for all brands, reflecting the growing demand for minimalist and barefoot footwear worldwide.

Monthly Branded Search Volumes for Barefoot Shoe Brands

The success of barefoot shoe brands isn't just reflected in their revenue figures. Their popularity can also be seen in how often people search for them online.

That’s why we looked into monthly branded search volumes in search engines like Google—a clear indicator of consumer interest, market presence and potentially demand.

Below is the visualization of monthly global search volumes for several leading barefoot and minimalist footwear brands:

Most popular barefoot shoes brands by search volume

The data highlights the dominance of larger, well-established brands like Merrell and Vivobarefoot, which is not surprising given their revenue numbers. They attract hundreds of thousands of monthly searches due to their global .

However, emerging brands like Be LenkaGroundies, and Wildling Shoes are steadily capturing consumer attention, thanks to their innovative designs and strong commitment to sustainability.

Niche players, while smaller, have carved out loyal audiences by focusing on quality or eco-conscious values.

Top Barefoot Shoe Brands

As you can see in the charts above, the barefoot shoe market is driven by key players who have pioneered minimalist footwear.

Each brand's journey is unique—some leverage their established global reach, while others focus exclusively on minimalist footwear.

Let's take a closer look at companies that carved their place in the barefoot shoe market

a) Global Barefoot Shoe Brands with Diverse Product Offerings

Let’s start with two global brands in the barefoot shoe market that successfully added barefoot shoes into their diversified product ranges in order to gain a presence in the barefoot segment.

1.Merrell

Merrell is a global leader in hiking footwear, focused on innovation and promoting outdoor accessibility for all. Available worldwide, it offers products for hiking, trail running, and lifestyle. 

Merrell does not focus solely on barefoot shoes; it offers a diverse range of products designed for various outdoor activities. Founded in 1981, Merrell initially specialized in high-performance hiking boots and has since expanded its product line significantly.

The brand is well-known for its extensive selection of footwear, but they also offer a specific line aimed at minimalist running enthusiasts, featuring designs like the Vapor Glove and Trail Glove

In 2018, Merrell‘s total revenue reached 580.8 million USD, growing to 676 million USD in 2023. It’s important to note that these figures represent total revenue across all product categories, not just Merrell’s barefoot shoes.

2.Vibram

Vibram's history dates back to 1937. They specialize in designing and manufacturing high-performance soles for various markets, including outdoor, safety, military, and lifestyle footwear.

Known for their durability, grip, and comfort, Vibram soles are widely used across global shoe brands and have become synonymous with quality and innovation.

In the barefoot segment, Vibram introduced the iconic FiveFingers, a minimalist footwear line designed to mimic barefoot movement. This innovation supports natural foot biomechanics and appeals to fitness enthusiasts, runners, and outdoor adventurers.

Vibram's revenue has shown a significant upward trajectory over the past three years, growing from 168 million USD in 2020 to an impressive 323 million USD in 2022. Just as in Merrell’s case, this revenue comes from its wide range of products—not just barefoot footwear

b) Dedicated Barefoot Shoe Brands: Leaders in Minimalist Footwear and Niche Players

While global players like Merrell and Vibram bring barefoot shoes into a broader portfolio, there's another group of brands making their mark by focusing solely on minimalist footwear.

This section highlights some of the most prominent barefoot-focused brands.

3.Vivobarefoot

Vivobarefoot, established in 2012 in the United Kingdom, specializes in creating minimalist footwear designed to promote natural foot movement and overall foot health. Their shoes are characterized by thin, flexible soles and wide toe boxes, enabling a barefoot-like experience that supports the biomechanics of the feet.

While Vivobarefoot offers a variety of casual footwear—including stylish sneakers, boots, and sandals for everyday wear—they also cater to more active lifestyles with specialized models for running, hiking, and training.

In 2023, Vivobarefoot achieved record revenue of 93.4 million USD, marking a 49% increase compared to the previous year. The brand sold nearly 1 million pairs of shoes, reflecting a 29% year-on-year growth.

We can see that Vivo’s revenue is much smaller than Merrell’s or Vibram’s, but that’s because Vivobarefoot is laser-focused on the barefoot segment, unlike Merrell and Vibram, whose revenues are bolstered by a diverse range of footwear and accessories. 

4.Xero Shoes

Xero Shoes is a Colorado-based company, founded in 2009, that specializes in minimalist footwear. The brand was co-founded by Steven Sashen and Lena Phoenix, initially gaining attention with their huarache-style sandals inspired by traditional Mexican footwear.

The brand is best known for its minimalist running shoestrail shoes, and hiking sandals, designed for those who prioritize natural movement during outdoor and athletic activities. However, they also offer a range of casual options, such as casual sneakers, boots, and sandals which combine their signature barefoot-friendly design with styles suitable for everyday wear.

Xero Shoes has experienced impressive growth in recent years, with estimated revenue increasing from approximately $8.8 million in 2018 to $78 million in 2023. This significant rise highlights the brand's expanding presence in the minimalist footwear market and its growing consumer base worldwide.

It’s worth mention that Xero Shoes has also been recognized for its rapid growth, being listed in the Financial Times Americas' Fastest Growing Companies and making the Inc. 5000 list for the sixth time in 2023, ranking at No. 2114.

5. Be Lenka

Be Lenka was founded in 2017 in Slovakia. The company is driven by a mission to promote healthy and natural foot movement through its innovative designs for both adults and children.

They are predominantly a casual and lifestyle-oriented barefoot shoe brand, with a strong emphasis on style, comfort, and foot health. Be Lenka offers a wide range of casual sneakers, boots, and sandals that are perfect for urban settings, work environments, and social occasions

In addition to their core Be Lenka line, the brand also offers the Barebarics collection, which combines minimalist principles with trendy, modern designs. Barebarics targets younger, fashion-conscious consumers who value style alongside the benefits of barefoot footwear.

Be Lenka has experienced remarkable growth over the past five years, with revenue increasing from 1.55 million USD in 2019 to an impressive 20.18 million USD in 2023. This rapid expansion highlights the brand's growing popularity in the barefoot footwear market, driven by its focus on quality, innovation, and international market presence.

6. Groundies

Groundies was launched in 2019 in Freiburg. They specialize in high-quality barefoot shoes (especially casual and lifestyle footwear) designed to combine natural movement, modern aesthetics, and exceptional comfort.  

In 2022, Groundies achieved an estimated revenue of 20 million USD, reflecting its increasing popularity in the barefoot and functional footwear market. 

7.Lems Shoes

This U.S.-based brand, launched in 2011, centers its philosophy on simplicity, functionality, and comfort. Lems primarily offers casual minimalist footwear but also features designs suited for light outdoor activities like hiking.

8.Leguano 

Emerging from Germany in 2009, Leguano specializes in casual barefoot shoes designed to support comfort and natural movement.

9.Wildling Shoes

Inspired by a desire to recreate the freedom of barefoot walking—especially for children—Wildling Shoes entered the market in 2015. The German brand focuses on versatile, comfortable footwear for daily wear and light outdoor activities, favoring urban and relaxed settings over high-performance sports.

10.Feelgrounds

One of the youngest players in the minimalist footwear scene, Feelgrounds began in Germany in 2019. With a strong focus on sustainability and modern design, this brand has quickly gained global recognition for creating stylish, comfortable barefoot shoes.

11.Softstar Shoes

With roots going back to 1985 in Oregon, USA, Softstar Shoes is a pioneer in handcrafted minimalist footwear. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability, the brand uses eco-friendly materials like natural leather and recycled components to produce shoes that combine functionality, comfort, and a dedication to natural foot movement.

Key Factors Contributing to Barefoot Shoes Market Growth:

  1. Health and Wellness Trends: The growing emphasis on health and wellness has played a significant role in the market's expansion. Barefoot shoes are marketed as tools to strengthen foot muscles, improve posture, and reduce the risk of injuries caused by traditional footwear with excessive cushioning and support.
  2. Increased Consumer Awareness: Studies and literature promoting the benefits of natural foot movement, such as improved biomechanics and injury prevention, have driven more consumers to seek minimalist footwear solutions. Additionally, fitness communities and online influencers have amplified this message, contributing to its wider reach.
  3. Sustainability and Eco-consciousness: Many barefoot shoe brands prioritize environmentally friendly production processes and materials, appealing to consumers who value sustainability. As awareness of climate change and environmental issues grows, this focus has become a competitive advantage.
  4. Growth in E-commerce: The rise of online retail has made barefoot shoes more accessible to consumers worldwide. E-commerce platforms enable brands to reach niche audiences without relying on traditional retail channels, significantly expanding their customer base.
  5. Diversification of Product Offerings: Early barefoot shoes primarily targeted runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, the product range includes casual shoes, formal footwear, children’s shoes, and even sandals, catering to a broader audience and everyday needs.

Barefoot Shoes Statistics in Australia

Australia is riding the wave of the global barefoot shoe movement, with interest in minimalist footwear steadily growing year by year. This rising popularity reflects an increasing awareness among Australians about the benefits of natural foot movement and healthier footwear choices.

At OzBarefoot, we’re proud to be part of this exciting trend, offering high-quality barefoot shoes that empower Australians to embrace minimalism and comfort in their everyday lives. By exploring the data, we can better understand how this market is evolving and which brands are leading the way.

Overall Popularity of Barefoot Shoes in Australia

Google search trends show that barefoot shoes are becoming a significant topic of interest in Australia. Using data from Google Keyword Planner, we tracked quarterly search volumes related to barefoot shoes. Back in Q4 2020, there were 181 350 quarterly searches, and by Q3 2024, this number had climbed to an impressive 459 640 searches.

Barefoot Shoes Trend in Australia

This steady upward trend mirrors global patterns, highlighting growing consumer curiosity and demand for minimalist footwear.

Most Searched Barefoot Shoe Brands in Australia

In addition to tracking overall search trends, we also reviewed the most searched barefoot shoe brands on Google in Australia.

Most popular barefoot shoes brands in Australia according to Statistics

Here's what the data shows:

  1. Merrell Shoes – Leading the pack with 18 100 monthly searches (Remember, they offer both barefoot and traditional footwear options)
  2. Vivobarefoot – A strong contender with 9 900 searches
  3. Xero Shoes – Gaining traction with 2,400 searches
  4. Vibram – A well-known name with 1,600 searches, thanks to its iconic FiveFingers line.
  5. Feelgrounds – Growing in popularity with 480 searches
  6. Other brands such as Be LenkaGroundies, and Lems Shoes also show steady interest, reflecting a diverse and competitive market

Barefoot Shoes Market is Poised for Growth

The barefoot shoe market is on an exciting trajectory, with consumers around the globe—and in Australia—embracing minimalist footwear. As demand continues to rise, brands like ours -OzBarefoot are here to support this movement, offering high-quality, stylish barefoot shoes that cater to everyday life.

Explore our collection today and join the growing community of barefoot enthusiasts.

Sources

Allied Market ResearchBarefoot Shoes Market Analysis 
Future Market InsightsBarefoot Shoes Market Report
Coherent Market InsightsBarefoot Shoes Market Industry
Maximize Market ResearchBarefoot Shoes Market Research
Wolverine Worldwide2022 Annual Report
VivobarefootUnfinished Business Report 2023
VivobarefootIntegrated Annual Report 2023/24
Wolverine WorldwideInvestor Relations - Annual Reports
Xero ShoesInc. 5000 Award - 7th Time
Xero ShoesInc. 5000 Award - 6th Time
Xero ShoesFinancial Times Fastest Growing Companies
GroundiesPress Release - Insolvency Proceeding 2023
VibramSustainability Report 2021
VibramSustainability Report 2022
GrowjoWildling Shoes GmbH Company Overview
WikipediaXero Shoes
Be LenkaAbout Us
LeguanoAbout Leguano
Lems ShoesOur Story
Wildling ShoesUnser Ansatz
FeelgroundsAbout Us
Google AdsKeyword Planner
AhrefsKeyword Generator
FinstatCompany 51085291