8 Best Barefoot Shoes for Weight Training 2026

Unapologetically flexible and built for movement, the relxfeet Men’s Barefoot Shoes deliver where it counts for weight training: ground feel, toe splay, and resilience. With a wide toe box, zero-drop sole, and high-density rubber outsole, these shoes let your feet function naturally—critical when stabilizing heavy loads during squats or deadlifts. The one-piece molding process and 80,000-bend durability test prove this isn’t just another flimsy minimalist shoe; it’s engineered to endure repetitive stress without losing structural integrity.

In real-world use, these shoes shine during gym sessions that demand stability and feedback—like Olympic lifts or bodyweight circuits. The 0.55-pound single-shoe weight means you’re not dragging extra load, while the slip-on flyweave upper hugs the foot snugly, allowing unrestricted motion. On concrete or rubber gym flooring, the sole offers reliable grip, though wet trails or slick tiles can test its limits. While not waterproof, the breathable material handles sweat well, but extended trail runs may expose the upper’s modest protection.

Compared to pricier models like the Xero Prio Neo, the relxfeet stands out as a rugged workhorse for functional fitness on a budget. It lacks premium finishes or welded overlays, but for lifters who prioritize foot freedom over flair, it’s a smart pick. It’s less refined than the WHITIN or MIFAWA, but more than capable for daily training—offering similar durability to Grand Attack at a slightly lower cost, without the bells and whistles.

The WHITIN Women’s Barefoot Shoes are a breath of fresh air for lifters who want comfort without sacrificing ground connection. With an engineered knit upper, these sneakers offer superior breathability—a standout feature during high-rep sets or hot gym sessions where feet tend to overheat. The zero-drop platform and wide toe box encourage natural foot posture, helping improve balance during unilateral movements like lunges or single-leg presses.

During testing, these shoes proved reliable on indoor surfaces—particularly rubber flooring and lifting platforms—where grip and thin-soled feedback are essential. The removable insole lets users dial in their barefoot experience, making them adaptable whether you’re warming up or going heavy. However, the outsole, while grippy on dry surfaces, shows slightly less tenacity on damp floors or outdoor gravel. The knit material is soft and sock-like, but not as abrasion-resistant as more rugged models.

When stacked against the Xero Prio Neo, the WHITIN lacks the same level of structural support and trail-ready durability, but it outperforms budget models in fit and ventilation. It’s ideal for women who want a light, breathable minimalist shoe primarily for gym use, not mixed terrain. It offers a cleaner aesthetic and better airflow than MIFAWA or Grand Attack, making it a strong contender for those who value comfort in warm environments.

The MIFAWA Barefoot Shoes are a surprisingly capable all-rounder, especially for lifters who train in varied environments—from garage gyms to outdoor circuits. With a true zero-drop sole and wide toe box, they promote natural alignment and foot splay critical for heavy lifts. The removable cushioned insole adds versatility: keep it for joint support during long sessions, or remove it for maximum ground feel during explosive movements.

In practice, these shoes handle gym floors with confidence, thanks to a flexible rubber outsole that grips well on both dry tile and rubber mats. The non-slip tread performs decently on wet grass or damp rocks, making them viable for hybrid workouts. However, the upper, while functional, doesn’t wick moisture as efficiently as more technical models, leading to slight discomfort during sweaty sessions. They’re durable enough for daily use but show wear faster than premium options when used aggressively on trails.

Compared to the relxfeet model, MIFAWA offers similar flexibility and protection at a slightly lower price, with the added benefit of insole customization. It’s less refined than the Xero Prio Neo but far more versatile than pure gym-focused shoes. For men who want one pair for lifting, hiking, and water-adjacent training, this is a high-value hybrid that outperforms its price tag—especially when compared to narrowly focused minimalist trainers.

The Xero Prio Neo is the gold standard of barefoot training shoes—sleek, supportive, and uncompromising in its minimalist philosophy. With a wide toe box, zero-drop sole, and ultra-flexible construction, it delivers an authentic barefoot experience while adding just enough refinement for serious lifters. The welded overlays and tensioning strap system provide lockdown and lateral stability—rare in minimalist shoes—making it ideal for dynamic workouts with jumps, sprints, or plyometrics.

Real-world testing reveals why it’s worth the investment: the dual chevron lugs offer confident traction on both gym floors and light trails, while the moisture-wicking lining keeps feet dry during intense HIIT or lifting circuits. The sole is thin enough for excellent ground feedback but durable enough to withstand repeated barbell sessions. It’s also one of the few barefoot shoes that feels secure during lateral cuts—perfect for functional fitness or CrossFit-style WODs.

Next to the WHITIN or Grand Attack, the Prio Neo is in a different league of performance and build quality. While pricier, it justifies the cost with longevity, support, and versatility. It’s the best choice for women who want one premium shoe for weight training, agility drills, and outdoor training—outperforming budget models in protection and fit refinement, even if they share similar core features.

Grand Attack delivers serious value with a women’s barefoot shoe built for strength and endurance. The wide toe box is among the most spacious in this lineup, giving toes room to splay and stabilize during heavy squats or lunges—critical for long-term foot health. Like the relxfeet model, it’s been tested to 80,000 bends, proving its flexibility and structural resilience under repetitive stress. The high-density rubber sole offers solid protection and feedback, making it a reliable platform for lifting.

In daily gym use, these shoes perform admirably on rubber mats and concrete, with circular lug patterns providing decent grip during lateral shuffles or sled pushes. The mesh upper breathes well, though it’s not as soft or moisture-managing as the WHITIN. They’re lightweight and easy to slip on, but the fit can feel slightly loose for narrow heels. On wet or slick surfaces, the outsole doesn’t inspire full confidence—best kept for dry, controlled environments.

Compared to the Xero Prio Neo, Grand Attack lacks premium support features but matches it in core barefoot functionality at a fraction of the price. It’s a more rugged version of the WHITIN, with better durability but less refined comfort. For women with wide feet who want a tough, affordable trainer for lifting and cross-training, this is a top-tier budget pick that rivals more expensive models in essential performance.

Don’t let the price fool you—the ZURIN Men’s Barefoot Shoes are a revelation in budget engineering, offering exceptional customization and ground feel for lifters who want maximum feedback. The swappable 3mm insoles let you fine-tune cushioning—perfect for transitioning into barefoot training or adjusting for different workouts. With a zero-drop design and ultra-thin sole, these shoes deliver crisp barbell feedback, essential for powerlifters or Olympic lifters.

In real-world use, the memory foam collar and sock-like upper make these surprisingly comfortable, even without socks. The multi-directional lugs grip well on dry gym floors and packed dirt, though they struggle on loose gravel or wet pavement. The thin sole enhances agility but offers minimal protection on rough terrain. Still, for indoor lifting, jump training, or yoga, the barefoot connection is unmatched at this price point.

Against the relxfeet or MIFAWA, the ZURIN stands out with customizable cushioning and superior comfort for sock-free wear. It’s not as durable as the Xero or Grand Attack, but for lifters on a tight budget, it’s a game-changer. It delivers core barefoot benefits at a rock-bottom cost, outperforming others in personalization and comfort—even if longevity takes a slight hit.

The WHITIN Men’s Barefoot Shoes are a masterclass in lightweight simplicity, built for lifters who want uninterrupted ground feedback without added bulk. At just ounces over the bare minimum, these shoes use a knit upper engineered for natural movement, letting your foot flex and respond like it’s almost bare. The wide forefoot design supports toe splay for better balance during heavy lifts, while the zero-drop sole aligns your posture from heel to spine—key for injury prevention.

During testing, these shoes excelled in indoor lifting and mobility work, where minimal interference is ideal. The non-marking rubber outsole grips well on gym floors and won’t damage surfaces—perfect for shared training spaces. The removable insole adds flexibility, though the shoe already feels close to the ground. However, the knit material offers little protection in wet or rough conditions, and long outdoor sessions can expose its fragility.

Compared to the ZURIN, the WHITIN offers better breathability and a cleaner aesthetic, but lacks customizable cushioning. It’s lighter than the MIFAWA and more refined than the relxfeet, making it ideal for men who want a sleek, functional gym shoe for lifting and daily wear. It delivers premium comfort without premium pricing, outshining others in minimalist design and fit—even if it sacrifices some versatility.

The Weweya Barefoot Shoes bring a radical twist to minimalist training with a five-toe design that maximizes individual toe control—ideal for lifters focused on foot strength and proprioception. The tongue-less, collar-style entry creates a second-skin fit, while the elastic lacing system locks the foot in place during explosive movements. With a zero-drop sole and removable arch support insole, these shoes let you train with or without cushioning, adapting to your barefoot journey.

In practice, these shine during indoor strength training—deadlifts, squats, and kettlebell swings—where balance and foot activation are critical. The separate toe design enhances grip and stability, helping correct imbalances over time. However, the exposed toe seams can rub during long runs, and the thin sole offers little protection on rough floors. They’re not ideal for trail use or wet environments, but perfect for gym-only lifters.

Next to the Xero Prio Neo, the Weweya offers greater toe independence but less overall support. It’s more specialized than the ZURIN or WHITIN, catering to users who want maximum foot engagement. For men serious about foot rehabilitation or strength training, this is a unique tool that outperforms flat-soled sneakers in neuromuscular feedback, even if it sacrifices mainstream comfort.