Barefoot shoes are trending – and two names keep coming up: Feelgrounds and Vivobarefoot. Both brands focus on zero drop, wide toe box, and minimal soles. But which shoes are right for you? We compare honestly and transparently.
A Quick Introduction: Feelgrounds & Vivobarefoot
Vivobarefoot is a British brand founded in 2012, with a broad range for sport, everyday wear, and outdoor activities. The shoes are known worldwide and are considered market leaders in the barefoot shoe segment.
Feelgrounds is an Austrian DTC brand (Direct-to-Consumer) specializing in vegan, sustainable barefoot shoes for urban everyday life. Through direct distribution, prices remain fair – with no intermediaries.
Comparison: The Most Important Criteria
1. Price
Vivobarefoot shoes cost on average between €150 and €220. Feelgrounds models range between €100 and €160. The price difference is explained by Feelgrounds' direct-to-consumer model – no retail markup, no intermediaries.
Advantage: Feelgrounds – similar quality, fairer price.
2. Zero Drop & Sole Thickness
Both brands offer genuine zero drop shoes – no heel elevation. Feelgrounds sole thickness ranges from 3–5 mm depending on the model, Vivobarefoot 3–6 mm. Both fall within the ideal range for natural foot feel.
Result: Tied – both deliver reliably here.
3. Toe Box
Feelgrounds offers a particularly wide, foot-shaped toe box. Vivobarefoot also provides plenty of space, but some models are slightly narrower. For people with wide feet or hallux valgus, Feelgrounds is often more comfortable.
Advantage: Feelgrounds – especially suitable for wide feet.
4. Materials & Sustainability
Vivobarefoot uses some natural leather, recycled materials, and offers vegan options – but not consistently. Feelgrounds is 100% vegan and uses sustainable materials like TENCEL™, cotton, bamboo, and vegan Oleatex® synthetic leather. All models are free from animal products.
Advantage: Feelgrounds – consistently vegan and sustainable.
5. Model Variety & Design
Vivobarefoot has a very broad range: running shoes, trekking shoes, business models, children's shoes. Feelgrounds focuses on urban styles – sneakers, boots, sandals – with clean design and no frills. For sporty outdoor models, Vivobarefoot offers more selection. For stylish city shoes, Feelgrounds is the better choice.
6. Break-In Period
Both brands recommend a gradual break-in period of 4–8 weeks. The flexible sole and wide toe box actively train foot muscles in both shoes. There is no significant difference here.
Which Barefoot Shoes Are Right for You?
- Feelgrounds → ideal for urban everyday life, office, travel, vegan lifestyle, fair prices
- Vivobarefoot → ideal for sport, outdoor, trekking, if you want a broad range
Our Feelgrounds Recommendations
For everyday wear: Courtside Canvas or Courtside Classic – comfortable barefoot sneakers for every day.
For sport & more active use: Move – our barefoot sports shoe with zero drop and TENCEL™.
For autumn & winter: Chelsea Boots or Patrol Winter – water-resistant and warm.
For formal occasions: Derby or Loafer – vegan barefoot shoes for the office.
Conclusion
Vivobarefoot is a strong barefoot shoe manufacturer with a long history – no question. But Feelgrounds delivers comparable quality at fairer prices, with consistently vegan focus and urban design. If you're looking for barefoot shoes for everyday wear and value sustainability, Feelgrounds is an excellent choice.
Discover all Feelgrounds barefoot shoes now →
Frequently Asked Questions: Feelgrounds vs. Vivobarefoot
- Are Feelgrounds shoes cheaper than Vivobarefoot?
- Yes – Feelgrounds models cost on average €100–160, Vivobarefoot shoes €150–220. The difference comes from Feelgrounds' direct-to-consumer model: no intermediaries, no retail markup.
- Which brand has the wider toe box?
- Both brands offer wide toe boxes. Feelgrounds is particularly suitable for people with wide feet or hallux valgus, as the toe box is consistently foot-shaped – wider than many Vivobarefoot models.
- Are Feelgrounds shoes 100% vegan?
- Yes – all Feelgrounds models are 100% vegan. Vivobarefoot also offers vegan options, but not consistently across the entire range.
- Can I use Feelgrounds for sport and running?
- Yes – the Move is specifically designed for sport, running, and active use. With a zero-drop sole and TENCEL™ material, it's ideal for the gym and casual runs.
- Does Feelgrounds ship to my country?
- Feelgrounds ships throughout the EU and to many other countries worldwide. Orders over €75 ship free within the EU. Delivery typically takes 2–5 business days.