Barefoot shoes have minimal cushioning and often a zero-drop heel-to-toe design, which can encourage a more natural stride while providing some support and protection from the ground. While not for everyone, some of their benefits include "improved stability and activation of intrinsic or small foot muscles for improved balance and strength,” and reducing "overuse injuries" when worn under the right circumstances, says Dr. Peter Lovato, DPM. Podiatrists recommend wearing them for short periods if you're new to barefoot shoes.

We put a range of barefoot shoes to the test while walking, running, training, and completing errands, evaluating everything from out-of-the-box comfort to long-term durability and impact on posture and stride.…