Give your feet freedom
A properly chosen barefoot shoe is like your feet's best friend - it supports them, lets them breathe freely and move as nature intended. And the width of the shoe is one of the crucial things that you should not underestimate when choosing.
Comfort at first
Imagine a shoe that fits you exactly where it should – neither too tight nor too loose. That’s the ideal we’re aiming for. How do you know if your barefoot shoes really fit you?
- Tightening: When you tighten your shoe, it should fit on your foot, but not constricting. Focus on the instep and ankle – no discomfort or pressure marks when you take it off.
- Toe space: Your toes need space. Ideally, there should be about 5-10 mm of space between the toe of the shoe and your toes. This allows your toes to spread out and work naturally as you walk.
- Circumference: Shoes should fit snugly, but not slip off the heel. A shoe that is too loose can throw you off balance because your foot "floats" inside and your gait is unstable.
Tip : You can learn how to accurately measure your foot to choose the right barefoot size in our video tutorial and article .
Natural movement as nature intended
Having enough space for your toes is essential because it gives your foot room to move. When your toes have room, they can naturally spread out when you land, improving stability and cushioning the impact of your stride. This space also strengthens your muscles and tendons. Natural movement forces your foot to work, helping to maintain strength and flexibility.
Why is toe space essential?
Wearing shoes that are too narrow has its risks. When the toes do not have enough space, deformities can occur, such as the well-known “hallux” (Hallux valgus – bunion) . This occurs when a small shoe presses on the big toe for a long time. Insufficient space in the shoe also forces the foot to make unnatural movements. This results in pain or overloading of the tendons and muscles in the foot. Did you know that the wrong shoes can also cause your back to hurt? Not to mention blisters and swelling.
So take your time when trying on shoes. Try them on, wiggle your toes, and take a few steps. When the shoe fits well, your feet will thank you.
Revolutionary DualSystem™: A shoe that adapts to you
Imagine a shoe that adapts to your feet. Not only does it fit, but it also perfectly matches what you need from it – whether you’re looking for extra comfort all day long or the feeling of walking barefoot. And that’s exactly what Skinners is delivering with its DualSystem™.
How does it work?
DualSystem™ is actually a clever upgrade to regular barefoot shoes. The secret lies in the removable insoles.
With insoles
Keeping the insoles will give you extra comfort and a slightly softer ride that you'll appreciate after a long day on your feet. This version is ideal for feet with low to medium insteps or for those looking for a shoe for everyday wear around town.
Without insoles
When you take the insoles out, a whole new world opens up. The shoe allows you to experience the feeling of walking barefoot, which is perfect for feet with a larger volume or high instep. This version is also great for those who want to enjoy maximum freedom and natural movement. Plus, the shoe without the insole still looks nice inside.
The big advantage is that you can replace the Classic insole, which is included in all our barefoot shoes, with another one at any time. The season of morning frosts is starting, but you don't want to give up your stylish low Moonwalkers yet ? Replace the Classic insole with the Thermal and step into the colder weather without worrying about your feet getting cold. Do you want extra comfort in your winter high barefoot shoes? Reach for the Winter insole with a soft layer of imitation wool that will keep you warm. All insoles are 3 mm thick and will give you the comfort you deserve. You can even use orthopedic insoles in Skinners shoes without any worries.
Why is DualSystem™ so unique?
Everyone has a different foot shape. Some have wide feet, some have a higher instep, some need a softer cushioning. And that's why DualSystem™ is so brilliant - it allows you to have two shoes in one.
The best part is that there's nothing complicated to set up or deal with. Want more comfort? Leave the insoles inside. Want maximum connection to the ground? Simply take them out. So simple, yet so revolutionary.
Thanks to DualSystem™, you no longer have to compromise. Whether you're looking for comfort or want to experience the feeling of walking barefoot, all current Skinners models now allow you to do just that.
Conclusion :
We hope you found all the information in this article to help you choose the right barefoot shoes. Whether you're looking for extra comfort or the feeling of walking barefoot, thanks to Skinners' revolutionary DualSystem™ you can have both.
And if you're still hesitating, check out 6 reasons to choose barefoot shoes and find out why it's a step in the right direction.