Kelly & 6,381 others love Barestep

Water Proof

Featherlight

Breathable

FROM
Rich The product is amazing. I have been running on flats (zero heel drop) for a few years and have really struggled to find any - other than very expensive imports. These are brilliant. The customer service and support has been the best I have experienced in SA probably in the last decade. Specifically Laura who helped me when I ordered the wrong size. (Word of advice, order your "actual" size, not a "size up" like most running shoes) Support them and enjoy an amazing experience from purchase to run.
FROM
Celia Excellent service - got the shoes within 2 days after ordering. Very friendly service. Shoes were packaged in a very neat and professional way. Very comfortable shoes. We are impressed with the product.
FROM
Lisa OH MY WORD how suprised was I when my shoes (that I purchased yesterday) arrived TODAY!!!! Immediately tried them on and I am never wearing any other shoes in my life. Feels like fluffy clouds, perfect fit, breathable, bendable, comfort galore! Immediately ordered my husband a pair too! Thanks so much!
FROM
Lungi I am absolutely loving my pair and have thoroughly enjoyed pain free exercise since delivery now that my toes are actually able to space out correctly. Whenever exercising, I've experienced massive struggles with my knees and joints for several years and the Baresteps alleviated much of that within days of use. I always knew the classic running shoes we see in stores globally were lacking scientific value and rather placing emphasis on looks and cushioning, I mean humans 1000 years ago made shoes according to the individual so why would a one shape fits all be useful now. Anyway, I just wanted to give massive props to you guys for providing an affordable solution, I will definitely be ordering more in the future.
FROM
Tessa Barestep delivered what they advertised. The service was prompt, the communication professional and timely and the product up to standard. The size guide was also spot on. It is still early days, but so far we are enjoying our Baresteps.
FROM
Paolo My Baretstep shoes were delivered within a few days of ordering. I have loved wearing them on walks in the forests and on the mountain. Even around the house they have replaced my slippers - that's how confortable they are. But as if that's not enough - I've also had many compliments on how good they look on my feet. Super happy!
FROM
Prev Ok so the best thing was the daily communication and the speedy delivery service. I use the shoe everyday now and it's the most comfortable shoe I have ever had. I think it's to hard on the sole to do cardio but for general walking or going out it's surprisingly amazing. Material seems a bit fragile but I guess it has to be soft because it has to be light. I want to order another pair but I need to to save up.
FROM
Fritz Extremely happy with Barestep. Firstly, my order was delivered in less than two days in rural KZN. The shoe is extremely comfortable. I have only had it for two weeks, but have walked quite a few kilometers in it, played tennis and even went for a run on a gravel road. Only time will tell how long it lasts, but currently still doing very well. When my feet is sore from wearing safety boots or running shoes all day, I put on my Baresteps and the pain just disappeared.
FROM
Mariette My Baresteps arrived with 24 hours from placing the order. I was really surprised! I was kept up to date of the process with in time sms's which were very assuring since we all do experience more and online hijacking. I am very satisfied with my Baresteps. They are really comfortable and light on my feet. I will recommend them to any one who prefers wearing minimalist shoes or are use to wearing Virbram Five-finger shoes or Vivo Barefeet shoes. They are excellent for running cross country.
FROM
Anthony Ordering was easy onlie and delivery was smooth. Wasnt sure quite what to expecet as they were a recommendation from my son. Have now done several short walks and along teh beach too. Loving them...When i look behind my foot-prints in the sand look as if i'm barefoot!
FROM
Melanie I am going to comment on the amazing service. I placed an order and forgot to select the correct size . Shoes arrived within 3 days, when I realised I had ordered the wrong size I emailed Barestep received a response immediately, shoes were collected the next day and I received notification of the new shipment two days later. Awesome service, shoes are great quality. Cannot wait to use them in my gym sessions.
FROM
Peter I have extended middle toes caused by an inherited disorder called Refsum so am never happy about buying on line and not trying first. Fit is brilliant and very comfortable. Peripheral Neuropathy is a collateral damage that comes with Refsum and thus I can no longer ever walk barefooted due to little feeling in my right foot. These shoes are thus a must for me!
Normal Shoes
Prevents natural movement
Over-reliance on cushioning
Alters the way you naturally walk
Lack of variability and versatility
Contributes to foot pain and problems
Barefoot Shoes
Promotes natural movement
Improved sensory feedback
Encourages a natural walking
Maximum variability and versatility
Reduces foot pain and problems

Step into the barefoot revolution

Take back everything the modern shoe took away from you. See why thousands of South Africans are choosing Barestep.

Meet your dream shoe

Minimalist Design

Super Breathable

Ultra Grippy

Feather Light

Water Resistant

Machine Washable

Reduced Pain

Move Naturally

Build a fantastic today and better tomorrow

Experience natural movement, strengthen the muscles in your lower body and increase your sensory feedback with the Barestep Active. Our shoes have been built to make you feel better today, and become stronger tomorrow.

The modern shoe is taking us a step backwards

We need shoes because we need protection, comfort and support. But there’s a problem: the modern shoe creates a lack of natural movement, an over-reliance on cushioning while fundamentally changing the way we walk.

Over time this has made us weak, inflexible, suseptible to foot pain. These are problems which spread from the bottom up.

Barestep gives you everything the modern shoe took away

Our approach is simple: create a shoe that gives us all of the benefits of walking barefoot in a package that is designed for us to comfortably navigate the modern world.

Do anything, go anywhere and step on any terrain with the same level of protection you’re used to.

Say hello to shoes you can finally thrive in

We're used to our footwear holding us back. Shoes are usually good for one thing but make other things impossible. Not the Barestep Actives. Now you can go straight from relaxing at home to the gym to the beach with one versatile shoe.

Back and better than ever

We’ve experienced some fast growth in the last couple of months, and learnt a lot from it. Now we are back and better than ever. Here are all of the things we have done to provide top tier service.

Wide toe box

We can now 100% guarantee 1-4 day delivery on all orders.

Thin sole

More customer service staff so we can lower reply times.

Zero Drop

We're prepared to thrive with high demand.

The most versatile shoe you'll ever own - guaranteed

We’ve experienced some fast growth in the last couple of months, and learnt a lot from it. Now we are back and better than ever. Here are all of the things we have done to provide top tier service.

Running

Hiking

Gym

Hiking

All-Day

Beach

Kayaking

Water

Crossfit

Lifting

Trails

+ More

The most versatile shoe you'll ever own - guaranteed

We’ve experienced some fast growth in the last couple of months, and learnt a lot from it. Now we are back and better than ever. Here are all of the things we have done to provide top tier service.

98%

97% of customers expectations were exceeded with their Barestep Actives

84%

84% of customers say the Barestep Active is their most comfortable shoe

78%

78% of customers have recommended the Barestep Active to their friends and family

Barestep Actives

Flexibility

Versatility

Comfort

Foot Pain

Movement

Typical Shoe

Flexibility

Versatility

Comfort

Foot Pain

Movement

4.81/5 (321 Reviews)

Let our customers speak for us

Our flagship shoe embodies the barefoot revolution. Known for it's unbelievable comfort and versatility, if you haven't tried them you're missing out.

Delivered and they are fabulous!

MR

Megan R

I received mine & they are soooo comfy!! Need to invest in the whole range…

EM

Elkse M

Good day Laura, thanks, I have received mine yesterday. Thank you very much.

JP

Jurie P

I received mine today as well …. Very happy so far.

SP

Steven P

I am in love! They fit like a glove, are super comfortable and cool!

CT

Carine T

Quite happy and they fit like a glove!

BB

Bennie B

So comfortable and light.

TM

Tony M

Super stoked.

NC

Natalie C

They are extremely comfortable. I love them.

MF

Marinda F

Will promote as far as possible seeing these shoes are good quality and very comfortable.

KV

Koos V

They so comfy I don't think I want to take them off.

GV

Gwendoline V

Received mine. Love the shoes.

AV

Amanda V

Thanks Barestep for ‘living up to your promise’ - I received my order and they are fabulous!!

MR

Mandy R

So I finally received my shoes on Friday and a short hike in them today, wonderful shoes!

KD

Kirsten D

Received our shoes yesterday, thank you SO much. They’re awesome.

SF

Stella F

They are comfortable as heck. I can see this is going to be my daily go to.

CO

Corne )

I love my new shoes.

EL

Elenor L

I bought them for my grandson. Thank You,He just came in from a 4.6km run and he says they are very comfortable and light, he is very happy.

ER

Elize R

What a pleasure wearing them. Great and comfortable.

PL

Pierre Lundberg

Everyone's Loving Their Baresteps

We’ve experienced some fast growth in the last couple of months, and learnt a lot from it. Now we are back and better than ever. Here are all of the things we have done to provide top tier service.

More durable than your hiking shoes

Build to last forever, the Barestep Active’s are designed to take you around the world. They’re waterproof, designed for all terrains and conform to your foot over time. This means you can wear them anywhere and face any weather.

Support and freedom combined

Barestep Actives provide a unique combination of support and freedom that traditional shoes cannot match. With a unique approach to arch support and cushioning, barefoot shoes still provide ample support through their design.

Finally give your feet a chance to breath - wide or narrow

Experience the wide toe box designed to conform to your foot whether wide or narrow. Allow your toes to move and spread naturally. The adjustable loop let’s you accurately secure your shoes.

Back to the roots

The soft and flexible thin sole gives your feet an unrestricted range of motion and ensures that your gait remains natural and healthy for your feet.

Let's answer some of your questions

We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions we get about barefoot shoes.

More durable than your hiking shoes

Build to last forever, the Barestep Active’s are designed to take you around the world. They’re waterproof, designed for all terrains and conform to your foot over time. This means you can wear them anywhere and face any weather.

Support and freedom combined

Barestep Actives provide a unique combination of support and freedom that traditional shoes cannot match. With a unique approach to arch support and cushioning, barefoot shoes still provide ample support through their design.

Finally give your feet a chance to breath - wide or narrow

Experience the wide toe box designed to conform to your foot whether wide or narrow. Allow your toes to move and spread naturally. The adjustable loop let’s you accurately secure your shoes.

Back to the roots

The soft and flexible thin sole gives your feet an unrestricted range of motion and ensures that your gait remains natural and healthy for your feet.

Over 3,000 Happy Customers Love Their Baresteps! Rated 4.7 out of 5 Read the reviews below to see what our customers are loving about their Barestep Actives!
Kevin
ZA
Verified
April 14, 2023
I'm a hiker and I love exploring I'm a hiker and I love exploring the great outdoors. The Barestep shoes are perfect for my adventures. They're lightweight, flexible, and provide great traction on all kinds of terrain. I love the fact that they allow me to feel the ground beneath my feet while still protecting them. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hiking.
Marlene
ZA
Verified
May 05, 2023
Shoes fit like a dream As someone with wide feet, finding shoes that fit well and are comfortable can be a challenge. But the Barestep shoes fit like a dream! They're roomy enough to accommodate my feet without feeling too loose, and the flexible sole provides great support. I'm thrilled with my purchase.
Wim Grobler
ZA
Verified
May 02, 2023
After waiting quite a long time I received the product in good condition. After waiting quite a long time for delivery, I received my order in good condition. The shoes are very, very comfortable, and I will definitely order more of their products. I assume that their supply chain is now sorted. The product quality is very good.
Hybre Schoeman
ZA
Verified
May 10, 2023
BEST EVER. Oh my word- I am totally in love with my shoes. I have wide feet with a high arch. Nothing ever fits. I struggle with painful, tired feet. Even tekkies are a struggle. My Baresteps are perfect. They FIT! The soles are non-slippery and give enough support and protection without being heavy. The material is light and feels strong. It breathes well. No trouble putting them on. I think they will wash well. Now I will just have to buy them in every color. My friends and family saw my shoes and immediately ordered - and received within days. I wish you would make jeans too…
Gawie J v Rensburg
ZA
Verified
May 09, 2023
Wow B+ Wow. What a good pair. I am traveling through SA at the moment and am enjoying my pair every moment. Comfortable with good grip. Will buy another pair in due course. B+
Jacques Losper
ZA
Verified
May 01, 2023
I would like to thank Laura I would like to thank Laura for her excellent service. I ordered my shoes, and she kept me in the loop all the time regarding delivery dates and everything. The shoes are awesome; they were well tested in Dinokeng Nature Reserve. Thank you guys, I will most definitely be ordering some more.
Jana Glasow
ZA
Verified
May 08, 2023
I'm a nurse and spend most of my days… I'm a nurse and spend most of my days on my feet. The Barestep shoes have been a game-changer for me. They're incredibly comfortable and supportive, and I love the fact that they're so lightweight. My feet no longer ache after a long shift. I've already recommended them to my coworkers.
Johannes Pichler
ZA
Verified
May 04, 2023
I've been a barefoot shoe enthusiast… I've been a barefoot shoe enthusiast for a while now, and the Barestep shoes have definitely earned a spot in my collection. The design is sleek and simple, but the comfort and flexibility are unmatched. I love the freedom of movement they provide, especially during my daily runs. Highly recommend!
Mike McCoy
ZA
Verified
April 16, 2023
Just what my partner needed! Your shoes have been just what my partner has been looking for. All of her other walking shoes have led to her experiencing Morton's neuroma (a painful condition caused by the compression of nerves in the foot) after four or five kilometers of walking. She's been using Barestep shoes now for about three weeks; a couple of days after getting them we did a steep 7-km mountain hike, and two days later she went on an 11-km walk with a friend. We've also done many shorter walks and hikes in the interim, many of them 5 kms in length. At no time has she experienced Morton's neuroma! We're really impressed. Our only complaint is that the shoe inserts seem to be too flimsy, and are already wearing through. Can they be replaced with more rugged or extra inserts?
Hannelie van as
ZA
Verified
AWESOME ‼️ After the initial problems with delivery, I gave up on receiving my shoes... But then they arrived. Oh wow! Best experience ever. I'm definitely going to buy at least one more pair. They're fantastic. Thanks to Laura at Barestep for answering all the emails patiently. And to Barestep for delivering!
Manuel Mirlach
ZA
Verified
May 07, 2023
I've never been one for trendy shoes I've never been one for trendy shoes, but the Barestep shoes caught my eye, and I decided to give them a try. I'm so glad I did! They're incredibly comfortable and lightweight, perfect for everyday wear. I even wore them on a long hike, and my feet didn't ache at all.
Ronel Delport
ZA
Verified
May 3, 2023
Barestep is tops I was very skeptical at first when I received no response to my order, but I immediately received feedback when I started making inquiries. The problem was clearly explained to me as to why I had not received anything yet. I was given the choice to be refunded, but I decided to wait. I received the promised shoes, and I am so happy with Barestep's product. I will definitely order again. Well done to Barestep's team.
Danie
ZA
Verified
May 3, 2023
It took a long time before receiving… It took a long time before receiving it. But the product itself is of very good quality and very comfortable. I'm wearing it daily. I'm going to order a pair for my wife once stock is available. I will recommend it to everyone. Thanks to Laura at Barestep for answering all the emails patiently.
Pierre Lundberg
ZA
Verified
May 02, 2023
I had a good experience I had a good experience - I realized that you guys had a delivery issue, but my request was sorted very quickly, and I received the shoes. I am thoroughly enjoying my pair - use them everywhere - very comfortable on long flights and no hassles at flight security like some shoes have. Been on the beach with them - super. I would just strongly advise that you inform people to maybe take their size or one size smaller. One issue though - my wife - Colette Lundberg ordered and paid for hers before I did - she has not yet received hers.
Hayley Best
ZA
Verified
May 05, 2023
Best ever I have been looking for shoes that don't hurt my feet after a few minutes or during the day. I have RA, so every bone hurts. Since I started wearing Barestep, my feet don't hurt, and surprisingly my back pain has subsided somehow. I'm impressed and love them. Definitely buying 2 more pairs.
Balise Malgas
ZA
Verified
April 28, 2023
The only shoe I want to wear. Had to wait almost a month for the delivery, when they arrived I was not sure the packaging looked cheap, but boy Oooh boy I was just testing the shoe, it's incredibly comfortable since then it's the only shoe I want to wear. I am going to get all colors.
Sean Upton
ZA
Verified
April 12, 2023
I am very happy with the product I am very happy with the product. I must say I was worried about receiving my purchase after reading the comments on Hello Peter, but then read the info sent and waited the 10 WORKING DAYS as stated, and the delivery was on time, so I am a very happy customer.
Sarie Spruyt
ZA
Verified
Fantastic shoes, great feedback Yes, there were delays on my order, but I received communication and an explanation. I was kept informed a number of times. It was so worth the wait. I must go barefoot mostly for I have such feet problems. I was fearing winter. These shoes are fantastic! I have no more pain. Please never stop making them!
Mari Wasserman
ZA
Verified
Very happy client! The delivery took a bit longer than expected, but the correspondence and service were exceptional. I will definitely place my next order. The shoes are extremely comfortable, and I have no more foot pain during and after my training sessions. I am very satisfied!
Bernice Sauls
ZA
Verified
May 04, 2023
Exceptional delivery service and… Exceptional delivery service and customer support, a huge thank you for keeping your promise. The shoes were delivered and it's as advertised - soft, comfortable feel, snug grip, and quality approved. Thank you!
Eric
ZA
Verified
May 03, 2023
Barefoot joy. As close to barefoot as can be. Incredibly comfortable to wear and more than living up to expectations. Thank you!
Gerhard Duraan
ZA
Verified
April 20, 2023
Different but great It's very different, of course, but loving it. Communication with Zendesk and specifically Laura is simply fantastic!!
Barney
ZA
Verified
I love the design I love the design. It’s very comfortable. Good value for money. I wear the shoes every day to work. I’m a personal trainer and perfect for the gym.
Johannes L van Niekerk
ZA
Verified
Delivered!!!! After not delivering, BareStep came through and delivered a few weeks ago.
Daniel du Preez
ZA
Verified
Great quality pair of shoes Great quality pair of shoes. I love them. I've been wearing them since I received them. Wish I had bought another pair.
Cathy Robertson
ZA
Verified
Delivery and a happy customer They clearly experienced logistical problems - not everything runs like clockwork all the time. I had communications all the way through the process. Today my shoes were delivered. They're incredible, and I'm extremely happy.
Trish Joubert
ZA
Verified
I RECEIVED MY SHOES TODAY!!!! I still cannot believe it, but I GOT MY SHOES TODAY!! Thanks Barestep! I know you have received some really cruel backlash for the delays. I don't blame the customers because we live in such a 'scam-friendly' country. But it's time for the turnaround, everyone!! I received my order, the shoes are awesome!! I am sure you will all receive your orders soon!! Remember to pop back on here and give Barestep positive feedback too. I think they are a new business and were overwhelmed by the flooding in of orders, and then sadly got let down by a few key players along the way!! But let's not get them shut down for this, let's support our fellow South Africans!! Barestep, I wish you luck, and I really hope you recover from this. You have a really good product!!
Sinja Wessel
ZA
Verified
I'm extremely happy with Barestep… I am extremely happy with my Barestep shoes. Very comfy, and I get lots of compliments when wearing them... On the beach, while hiking, or doing powerwalking! It took almost 6 weeks (after ordered & paid) before delivering... I almost became worried. But the Barestep team kept me posted on the progress. All's well that ends well. Thank you, and I wish you luck. Sinja.
Heather Leong
ZA
Verified
Delighted... Despite a delay in receiving the shoes Despite a delay in receiving the shoes, I am delighted. The integrity of both the brand and product was restored through the professionalism I experienced. I will not hesitate to support this brand again.
Warren Neumann
ZA
Verified
Great product when compared to other similar products Great product when compared to other similar products at a great discounted price. Laura kept me posted on developments and let us know of the supply chain issues that were being experienced. I had to wait 4 weeks for the stock to arrive, but once this was resolved, the dispatch and delivery took 2 days. Thanks!
Lonwabo Fata
ZA
Verified
Bad service I waited too long for the shoes, but there was communication at least. The shoes are great; I would just change the inner sole for more comfort, which is what I did, and that made the shoes extra special. N.B. my opinion and experience.
Marinda
ZA
Verified
Rocky start, but great finish I did think at some stage that the company was a scam because it took so long for the shoes to arrive. But I received the shoes some time ago, and I absolutely love them. This is my second pair of barefoot shoes, but they are much better than the first pair (Merrells), which I had to buy from an overseas company because I couldn't get any in SA. I am very glad that I can now buy barefoot shoes in SA. I will definitely buy more of these from Barestep.
Natalie Cronje
ZA
Verified
Happy as Larry: I also waited many weeks to receive my… I also waited many weeks to receive my shoes. Almost gave up, but my patience paid off. I love them! They are super comfortable. My only complaint is that in a gym environment, they grip the floor but my foot comes out of the shoe. I should maybe have taken a smaller size for a better fit. I'll know to order a size smaller next time. Love them!!
Gary Holtzman
ZA
Verified
This is a great product and value for… This is a great product and value for money. It ticks all the boxes of comfort and durability. The only downside was the late delivery after 6 weeks instead of 7 to 10 days.
Mohsin Kotwal
ZA
Verified
Was very worried after I ordered the… Was very worried after I ordered the shoe because it took a while to come, but I am happy with my purchase. Wearing Barestep for the first time and have no problems so far.
Gerrie Human
ZA
Verified
Patience I have ordered two pairs of Barestep shoes on 12 March 2023 (for me and my wife). Waited for a long time after the promised delivery date. Thought it was a scam, sent an email, and soon after that received a tracking number. Still thought it was a scam because I waited so long. Received the product on 28 April 2023. The product is excellent. Service must drastically be upgraded. I believe they are busy addressing this issue. If they can get this right, it will be a great business with a great product. I want to order more pairs as soon as they are open for orders again.
Robert Guest
ZA
Verified
Slow but good quality... Ordered on March 23rd. Received an email saying delivery would be 7-10 working days, but they also highlighted that they had been inundated with orders and may need a day or two extra. Delivered on April 13. Allowing for the Easter weekend, that makes it approximately 13 working days. Although such timelines are not what we have come to expect from other online suppliers, my experience came pretty close to what they promised. However, the shoes are great, but I need to test their return policy to get an exchange for a smaller pair. Just hope I don't need to wait as long as the first time ....?
René Botha-Liebenberg
ZA
Verified
The product is exactly as advertised The product is exactly as advertised. Soft and most comfortable. After reading the reviews, I was really concerned, but I sent an email which was answered within a day, explaining the reason for the delay. After a follow-up, I received it within two days. Rene202
Bruce Warren
ZA
Verified
Slightly delayed delivery but very good product I ordered the shoes on the 19th of March and received them on the 14th of April, which was longer than the quoted 7-day delivery time. After I had to send a follow-up email, Laura was very prompt at giving feedback on the logistical problems they had been experiencing. Despite the slight delay, I am very happy with the actual product and hope to order again in the future.
Barbara Campbell
ZA
Verified
Barestep South Africa is not a scam I did write a previous review stating that this was a scam, but now retract that statement as I did receive my order, albeit after over a month of waiting and not much communication in the beginning. After all the negative reviews, I feel that the company has improved their level of service and communication. Thank you to Barestep for improving your service and not being a scam.
Richard Lilford
ZA
Verified
Not a scam, severe delivery problems Not a scam but does have a delivery problem. I think they legitimately sold more than they could handle. I ordered a pair on the 27th March and they arrived today, 13th April. Laura is real and sorted delivery out. Shoes are great.