Barefoot shoes are trending – and two names keep popping up: Feelgrounds and Vivobarefoot. Both brands focus on Zero Drop, wide toe box, and minimal soles. But which shoes are the better fit for you? We're comparing them honestly and transparently.
Quick Intro: Feelgrounds & Vivobarefoot
Vivobarefoot is a British brand, founded in 2012, with a wide range for sports, everyday wear, and outdoor activities. Their shoes are known worldwide and 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. Thanks to direct sales, prices stay fairer – no middlemen involved.
Comparison: The Key Criteria
1. Price
Vivobarefoot shoes cost on average between €150 and €220. Feelgrounds models range from €100 to €160. The price difference comes down to Feelgrounds' direct-to-consumer model – no retail markup, no middlemen.
Advantage: Feelgrounds – similar quality, fairer price.
2. Zero Drop & Sole Thickness
Both brands offer true Zero Drop shoes – meaning no heel elevation. Sole thickness at Feelgrounds is 3–5 mm depending on the model, while Vivobarefoot ranges from 3–6 mm. Both fall within the ideal range for a natural walking feel.
Result: Tie – both deliver reliably here.
3. Toe Box
Feelgrounds features an extra-wide, foot-shaped toe box. Vivobarefoot also offers plenty of room, but some models run a bit narrower. For people with wide feet or bunions, Feelgrounds is often more comfortable.
Advantage: Feelgrounds – especially suited for wide feet.
4. Materials & Sustainability
Vivobarefoot uses some natural leather, recycled materials, and offers vegan options – but not across the board. Feelgrounds is 100% vegan and uses sustainable materials like TENCEL™, cotton, bamboo, and vegan Oleatex® faux 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, hiking shoes, business styles, kids' shoes. Feelgrounds focuses on urban styles – sneakers, boots, sandals – with clean, no-frills design. If you're looking for sporty outdoor models, Vivobarefoot has more options. If you want stylish city shoes, Feelgrounds is the better choice.
6. Break-In Period
Both brands recommend a gradual break-in period of 4–8 weeks. Thanks to the flexible sole and wide toe box, both shoes actively train your foot muscles. There's no major difference here.
Which Barefoot Shoes Are Right for You?
- Feelgrounds → ideal for urban everyday life, office, travel, vegan lifestyle, fair prices
- Vivobarefoot → ideal for sports, outdoor, hiking, those who want a broad range
Our Feelgrounds Recommendations
For everyday wear: Courtside Canvas or Courtside Classic – comfy barefoot sneakers for every day.
For sports & active use: Move – our barefoot athletic shoe with Zero Drop and TENCEL™.
For fall & winter: Chelsea Boots or Patrol Winter – waterproof and warm.
For dressy 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 a consistently vegan approach and urban design. If you're looking for barefoot shoes for everyday life and value sustainability, Feelgrounds is a great choice.
Discover all Feelgrounds barefoot shoes now →
FAQ: Feelgrounds vs. Vivobarefoot
- Are Feelgrounds shoes cheaper than Vivobarefoot?
- Yes – Feelgrounds models cost on average €100–160, while Vivobarefoot shoes run €150–220. The difference comes from Feelgrounds' direct-to-consumer model: no middlemen, no retail markup.
- Which brand has the wider toe box?
- Both brands offer wide toe boxes. Feelgrounds is especially suited for people with wide feet or bunions, 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 their entire range.
- Can I use Feelgrounds for sports and running?
- Yes – the Move is specifically designed for sports, running, and active use. With a Zero Drop sole and TENCEL™ material, it's perfect for the gym and light runs.
- Does Feelgrounds ship to my country?
- Feelgrounds ships EU-wide as well as to many other countries worldwide. Shipping within the EU is free on orders over €75. Delivery typically takes 2–5 business days.