ABOUT BAREFOOT SHOES
What exactly are barefoot shoes?
Barefoot shoes are designed to let your feet move as naturally as possible. They have a wide toe box so your toes can splay out freely, a thin and flexible sole that lets you feel the ground beneath you, and zero heel elevation so your foot sits flat. Unlike conventional footwear, they do not prop your foot up or restrict its natural shape. The result is a shoe that looks and wears like regular footwear but works with your body rather than against it.
What are the health benefits of wearing barefoot shoes?
Many people switch to barefoot shoes because they want to address specific foot concerns or simply move more comfortably day to day. Customers often tell us that their feet feel stronger, their posture improves, and issues like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and sensitive feet ease over time as their feet regain their natural function. Because every body is different, we cannot make medical claims, but the feedback we hear most is that people feel more connected to the ground, less fatigued after long days on their feet, and more balanced overall.
Are barefoot shoes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, and most of our customers are first-time barefoot shoe wearers. That said, your feet have likely spent years in conventional shoes, so they may need a little time to adjust. Some people take to barefoot shoes immediately; others need a few weeks to build up wear time gradually. The key is to listen to your feet, start with a couple of hours a day, and increase from there. We have put together some transition guidance below, and our team is always happy to answer questions.
How do I transition to barefoot shoes without discomfort?
The most important thing is patience. Your feet and calves are adapting to a new way of moving, so let them do that at their own pace. Start by wearing your new shoes for short periods, perhaps on gentle walks or around the house, and gradually extend the time over a few weeks. Stretching your calves and feet before and after can also help. Most people find the adjustment period is shorter than they expected, and many notice they enjoy the feeling right away. If you experience any persistent discomfort, give your feet a rest day and build back up more slowly.
Are barefoot shoes good for flat feet or plantar fasciitis?
Many of our customers come to us specifically because of flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or other common foot conditions, and a large number report positive results after making the switch. The wide toe box and flexible sole allow the foot to work the way it was designed to, which over time can help strengthen the muscles that support the arch. If you have a diagnosed condition or are under the care of a podiatrist or physiotherapist, it is worth discussing the transition with them. We are happy to answer any questions that help you decide whether barefoot shoes are right for your situation.
SIZING AND FIT
How do I find the right size?
The most reliable way is to trace your foot on a piece of paper, measure the distance from your heel to the tip of your longest toe, and compare that measurement to the size chart for the brand you are interested in. Each brand we stock has its own size chart on the product page, so we recommend using those rather than assuming your usual size will carry across. As a general guide, barefoot shoes typically fit true to foot length, and a small amount of room at the toe is perfectly normal given the wide toe box design.
Why do sizes vary between brands?
All three brands we stock — Leguano, Be Lenka, and Barebarics — are European manufacturers, and each one patterns their lasts slightly differently. A size 40 in one brand may feel noticeably different to a size 40 in another. This is not a quality issue; it is simply how different makers interpret fit. That is why we provide a separate size chart for every brand rather than one universal guide. Taking a few minutes to check the chart for each brand before ordering makes a real difference to getting it right first time.
What if I am between sizes?
If your measurement sits between two sizes, we generally suggest going up to the larger size. Barefoot shoes are meant to accommodate your toes spreading naturally, so a small amount of extra room in the toe area is preferable to a shoe that feels snug. If you are unsure, feel free to get in touch before you order and we will do our best to guide you based on the specific style you have in mind.
What if my shoes do not fit when they arrive?
We make the return and exchange process as straightforward as possible. If your shoes do not fit, you can return them within 30 days of delivery provided they are unworn and in their original condition. Please drop us an email at the address on our contact page and we will walk you through the next steps. Sizing is the most common reason people return shoes to us, so please do not worry — it happens, and we are well set up to help you find the right fit.
Do the shoes stretch or break in over time?
Barefoot shoes generally hold their shape well because they are designed to match the natural width of your foot rather than be broken in. You should not need to force a fit. If a shoe feels uncomfortably tight across the toes or at the heel straight out of the box, it is likely the wrong size rather than something that will ease with wear. A good barefoot shoe fit should feel comfortable from the first time you put it on.
ORDERING AND SHIPPING
Do you deliver to the UK?
Yes, we deliver across the United Kingdom. Whether you are in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, we will get your order to you.
How much does shipping cost?
We offer a flat-rate shipping fee on all orders, so the cost is the same regardless of what you buy or how many pairs you order. The exact shipping rate is displayed at checkout before you confirm your purchase.
How long will my order take to arrive?
Most UK orders arrive within 3 to 7 working days from the date of dispatch. During busy periods, such as around peak season, it can occasionally take a little longer. You will receive a dispatch confirmation email as soon as your order leaves us, and tracking information will be included so you can follow its journey.
Will I receive tracking information?
Yes. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive an email with your tracking details so you can keep an eye on where your parcel is. If you have not received a dispatch email within 2 working days of placing your order, please check your spam folder and then get in touch if you still cannot find it.
Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
If you need to make a change to your order, please email us as soon as possible and we will do our best to help before it is dispatched. Once an order has been sent out, we are unable to make changes, but you can return it once it arrives if needed.
RETURNS AND EXCHANGES
What is your return policy?
You can return unworn shoes in their original packaging within 30 days of receiving your order. We ask that items are in the same condition as when they were delivered, with all original tags and boxes intact. If you have any doubt about whether your return qualifies, just drop us an email and we will let you know.
How do I start a return or exchange?
Simply email us at our customer support address with your order number and the reason for your return, and we will reply with the return instructions. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day. Once we have received and inspected your return, we will process your refund or exchange as quickly as possible.
How long does a refund take to process?
Once we receive your returned item, we aim to process refunds within 3 to 5 working days. The time it then takes to appear in your account depends on your bank or payment provider, but typically this is an additional 3 to 5 business days. You will receive an email confirmation once the refund has been issued from our end.
Can I exchange for a different size or style?
Yes, exchanges are welcome. If you would like a different size in the same style, or if you would prefer to try a different model or brand, let us know when you get in touch about your return and we will do our best to sort that out for you. Subject to stock availability, we will dispatch your exchange once the original item has been received.
What if my shoes arrive damaged or faulty?
This is rare, but if your shoes arrive with a defect or damage, please email us within 7 days of receiving your order with a photo of the issue and your order number. Faulty or damaged items are covered separately from our standard return policy and we will make it right for you promptly.
ABOUT BAREFOOTHUB.CO.UK
Who are you?
We are barefoothub.co.uk, a dedicated online retailer for barefoot footwear serving customers across the UK and Ireland. We are passionate about natural movement and helping people find shoes that genuinely support the way their feet are designed to work. Whether you are dealing with a specific foot issue or simply curious about trying something different, we are here to help you find the right fit.
How do I know I can trust your store?
We completely understand that buying from a specialist online retailer for the first time comes with a bit of uncertainty, especially for a product you might not have tried before. We carry established European brands with strong track records, and we are committed to providing honest product information, fair policies, and responsive customer support. Our customers regularly return and recommend us, and we encourage you to read reviews on our product pages. If you have any questions before you buy, please reach out — we would rather have a conversation than see you feel unsure.
Which brands do you stock?
We stock Leguano, Be Lenka, and Barebarics — three of the most respected barefoot shoe brands from Europe. Each brand has its own strengths and aesthetic, and together they cover a wide range of styles from casual everyday footwear to more active and lifestyle options. Some of our most popular models include the Leguano Go, Be Lenka Beat, Barebarics Rebound, and Be Lenka Zing, but we regularly update our range so there is always something new to explore.
How can I contact you?
The best way to reach us is by email. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day, Monday to Friday. You can find our contact details on the Contact page of our website. Whether you have a question about sizing, need help choosing between two styles, or want to follow up on an order, we are happy to hear from you.
Do you have a physical shop?
We are an online-only retailer, which allows us to keep our selection focused and our prices competitive. Everything is ordered through our website and delivered directly to your door. If you are unsure about a product before buying, our email support team is always available to give you personalised guidance.