Barefoot shoes are gaining huge momentum in the UK, and with more people seeking natural movement, better posture, and improved foot health, the demand to learn and try these shoes has never been higher. On Sunday 21st September 2025, the UK will host its first Barefoot Shoe & Foot Health Expo at Cranmore Park, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, West Midlands, B90 4LF. This exciting event will run from 10am–4pm (with entry slots at 10am, now sold out, and 1pm). While this is the first event of its kind, the aim is to make it an annual celebration of natural movement and healthy feet.
This guide will help you understand barefoot shoes, why they’re growing in popularity, and how the UK’s Barefoot Shoe and Foot Health Expo is the best place to explore them.
What Are Barefoot Shoes and Why Are They Growing in the UK?
Barefoot shoes are designed to let your feet move naturally. They typically feature:
- A wide toe box to let your toes spread
- A thin, flexible sole to help you feel the ground
- Zero drop from heel to toe to encourage natural posture
Unlike standard “wide fit” shoes, barefoot shoes are actually foot-shaped and don’t taper at the toes. This simple difference allows for improved balance, mobility, and long-term foot health.
Celebrities and public figures are also shining a light on barefoot shoes. From Joe Wicks and Fearne Cotton to Hugh Jackman, Chris Hemsworth, LeBron James, and even the Queen of Spain, the movement is spreading across sports, wellness, and lifestyle communities worldwide.
The UK’s First Barefoot Shoe and Foot Health Expo
The UK’s Barefoot Shoe and Foot Health Expo 2025 is the first opportunity of its kind for people to gather under one roof and explore everything barefoot. It’s open to:
- Families curious about barefoot shoes
- Runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts
- Health professionals interested in foot function
- Retailers looking to discover new brands
What to Expect
- Try and buy barefoot shoes from UK stockists and international brands
- Learn about foot health from industry experts and podiatrists
- Meet the brands leading the barefoot movement
- Connect as a retailer to discover new suppliers and products
This year, both public and trade visitors will be welcomed together. In future, the plan is to create separate trade and public days.
Exhibitors and Speakers
Sponsor Exhibitors
Vivobarefoot, The Foot Collective, Paperkrane, Be Lenka, Barebarics, Inch Blue
Exhibitors
Vibram, Bahe, Gaucho Ninja, Froddo Barefoot, Muki Shoes, AllToeGether*, Freet, SlipFree, WildSole, Victoria Shoes, Origo, Happy Little Soles*, Paidal Barefoot, El Naturalista, Maddy Peddy*, B2Barefoot*
(*indicates agencies or retailers bringing multiple brands to display)
Brands with Retailer Representation
Muris, Magical Shoes, CRAVE, Groundies, Splay, Doghammer, Uphill Books (Katy Bowman’s titles on sale), Xero Shoes, Peerko, Angles, Caelu, Igor, Tip Toey Joey and Saguaro
Speakers
- Jim Dooner from The Foot Collective
- Podiatrists Rina Harris and Andy Bryant (Q&A session)
- Andrew and Daisy Jackson, co-founders of Freet
- Nicola Pike, holistic therapist
Why Events Like This Matter
In the UK, barefoot shoes are easier to find online than in person. But buying barefoot shoes without trying them can be tricky. The expo gives you a chance to:
- Feel the shoes underfoot before you buy
- Compare different brands side by side
- Learn from podiatrists and therapists about how barefoot shoes affect your health
- Connect with retailers who are passionate about foot health
This isn’t just an event about shoes. It’s about making natural movement and healthier feet accessible to more people across the UK.
How to Buy Barefoot Shoes in the UK
Even if you can’t attend the expo, barefoot shoes are becoming more accessible in the UK through a growing number of stockists and online retailers. You can explore a comprehensive guide here: UK Barefoot Brands and Retailers.
The key when buying barefoot shoes is to focus on:
- Shape: foot-shaped with a wide toe box
- Flexibility: the shoe should bend and twist easily
- Zero drop: the sole should be flat from heel to toe
FAQs
What are barefoot shoes?
Foot-shaped shoes with thin, flexible soles that encourage natural movement.
Are barefoot shoes good for kids?
Yes. They support healthy foot development by allowing toes to spread naturally.
Can barefoot shoes help with foot pain?
For some, yes. They promote natural function, though it’s wise to transition gradually.
Where can I buy barefoot shoes in the UK?
At the expo or online via specialist stockists. See the UK Barefoot Brands and Retailers guide.
Will there be another UK Barefoot Expo?
This is the first of its kind, with plans to make it an annual event.
Stay Connected
The UK’s Barefoot Shoe and Foot Health Expo is almost sold out for 2025, but this is only the beginning. If you’re curious about barefoot shoes and want to stay updated on future events, sign up for updates below.
- [Join mailing list here]
- [Follow Barefoot Brit on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook]
- Visit the Eventbrite page for ticket info
Barefoot shoes are more than a trend. They’re a movement towards healthier feet and stronger bodies — and this expo is where the UK’s barefoot journey begins.
Can’t wait to see you there!
Brit 👣