The name barefoot shoes tell us that they are shoes that give us the feeling of walking barefoot. So it is quite appropriate to ask the question that many of us ask ourselves. Should I wear socks with my barefoot shoes?
Barefoot shoes can be worn with or without socks. Socks are good to wear at the beginning when you are still getting used to barefoot shoes, as they give you an extra layer of comfort. Socks are also good in cold weather to protect you from the cold, as barefoot shoes are very thin.
Below I will tell you about the advantages of wearing socks and the advantages of not wearing socks with barefoot shoes. I will also show you which socks to wear with barefoot shoes.
Should I wear socks with my barefoot shoes?
You can wear socks with barefoot shoes, especially at the beginning when you are still getting used to walking in them. Walking in socks, in my opinion, has more advantages than disadvantages. One of the most obvious reasons is comfort, which you can also achieve with other accessories, but more on that later.
Benefits of wearing socks with barefoot shoes
- Socks offer more comfort,
- keep feet warm in cold weather,
- protect the skin from direct abrasion and prevent chafing and blisters,
- socks absorb sweat, which prevents bacteria from forming,
- socks make our shoes smell less.
As you can see, there are many reasons why it is a good idea to wear socks with barefoot shoes. There is a reason why we wear socks every day because it is healthy for our skin, our feet, and ultimately for the longevity of our shoes.
During the day, our skin sweats, and if we don’t wear socks, then our feet are soaked all day. Inside the shoe, a wet, warm, and dark environment begins to form, which is ideal for bacteria and fungi to form. These are transferred to the skin and cause unpleasant odors in the shoe that are difficult to remove.
When we walk, our feet are constantly moving and rubbing against the shoe, which can cause abrasions and blisters. If you decide that you really want to go barefoot in barefoot shoes, then I suggest you buy good quality shoes that won’t blister and chafe.
I will now introduce you to some of the positive features that you enjoy when you do not wear socks.
Advantages of not wearing socks with barefoot shoes
- We look better without socks, especially when wearing shorts,
- achieve the primal feeling of walking barefoot,
- strengthen the muscles of your feet and legs,
- a greater sense of freedom.
I am a supporter of wearing socks with shoes, but I have to admit that there are many advantages to not wearing socks. However, some of these advantages can also be compensated for by wearing socks. This brings us to the next question.
Which type of socks to wear with barefoot shoes?
Toe socks in no-show length satisfy the need for freedom while walking and the appearance of not wearing socks.
Classic socks squeeze our toes together, while toe socks separate them and give them freedom, better grip, and the feeling of walking barefoot.
| Toes Socks | Regular Socks | |
| Prevent rubbing of the fingers | ✅ | ❌ |
| Easier to wick sweat away | ✅ | ❌ |
| Easier to put on | ❌ | ✅ |
| Offer more grip | ✅ | ❌ |
The table above is from an article I wrote in the past. The article is a comparison between regular and toe socks. You can read the full article here.
The no-show length of the socks makes us look good even in shorts and protects the feet from the direct rubbing of shoes against the skin. You can find out how to choose the right length of socks here.
Is it better to walk barefoot or with socks?
Walking barefoot at home for long periods is not recommended as it can lead to foot deformities. Walking in socks at home is a better alternative as this cushions the walking, but walking in slippers is even better.