Autumn is a favourite season for so many of us, and after our sweltering, dry summer, it arrives on a welcome breeze that carries the first shiver of fresh, chilly air. It's the season of home and harvest. Of soup and stews. Of baking and relishing cosy evenings indoors, but also making the most of the light hours by spending precious time outside with nature.
Yes, we are contending with wet days again, along with cold feet and misty starts, but autumn also brings out the layers and a renewed appreciation for the things that keep us comfortable outdoors. The coats are back on the hooks, and the boots are by the door - we're ready to make the most of everything autumn has to offer.
The Best Time of Year to Get Outdoors
The countryside is at its most colourful, temperatures are comfortable rather than exhausting, and there's a sense of satisfaction in setting out on a bright autumnal morning before the day fully wakes up. The sun is that little bit lower, the mist has raised the scent of damp earth, leaves are beginning to gather underfoot - it's a season that engages all the senses.
The challenge, of course, is that autumn can be as demanding as it is beautiful.
What We Look For in Autumn Barefoot Footwear
When choosing styles for the season, we focus on qualities that matter in the real world. Grip becomes more important. So does water resistance. Materials need to cope gracefully with changing weather, while remaining flexible enough to keep us on our feet all day. Above all, our footwear should enable us to stay outdoors longer, not be an excuse to head home.
Some autumn footwear is so focused on protection that it loses comfort and flexibility. Other prioritse appearance at the expense of practicality. The best designs manage to reach a balance, and that is the common thread running through our top picks this autumn.
Inspired by the Landscape
An appreciation of the landscape is strengthened by feeling connected to the earth, and that is what barefoot footwear gives us. Thin, flexible soles and minimal construction lead to greater perception of the ground beneath us; whether we are experiencing damp grass, a rocky trail, or wet pavement, each tells its own story through the soles of our shoes.
Rather than separating us from our environment, good barefoot footwear allows us to experience more of it.
Froddo Up Trail Boots Beige | Waterproof Barefoot Boots
A good waterproof boot like Froddo's Trail shoe on their new Up sole gives a connection to the earth while protecting feet from damp and cold.
Freet Bootee 2 Black | Waterproof Barefoot Hiking Boots
For muddy paths and trails, and our wonderfully unpredictable weather, Freet's Bootee 2 proves that a barefoot boot doesn't need to be bulky to be capable.
Xero Women's Scrambler Mid II Asphalt | Barefoot Hiking
For autumn hikes that challenge, Xero's Scrambler Mid II can keep up with whatever you do. Waterproof, lightweight, and impressively grippy, It's built for rugged adventure while staying true to the flexibility that makes barefoot footwear so appealing.
Play Outside For Longer
Autumn is made for outdoor play. From kicking through piles of fallen leaves to collecting conkers on bright woodland trails, it's a season that invites us to play outside. The right footwear can make all the difference, helping little feet stay comfy for longer so the adventure doesn't have to end when the weather changes.
Whether it's a detour through the park on the way home, or a planned weekend to explore the great outdoors, anything that keeps them in the fresh air for longer has to be a good thing.
Be Lenka Kids Zippu Boots Brown | Warm Waterproof Comfort
Zippu is Be Lenka's waterproof boot for kids that love to be outside in all weather.
First Walkers | Soft & Flexible First Shoes for Early Steps
Looking Smart, Whatever the Weather
Barefoot Adult Boots | Stylish Barefoot Boots for Adults
Autumn doesn't just mean countryside walks and cosy weekends. For many of us, it's about navigating rainy commutes, chilly mornings and busy days at work while still looking put together.
The good news is that barefoot footwear has come a long way. As well as practical waterproof boots and outdoor gear, there's a great choice of barefoot footwear that looks as good for work as it does for play. Think sleek knee-high boots that work well with autumn layers and practical ankle boots you can just slip on and go.
Peerko Joana Boots | Brown Leather Barefoot Boots
We've been looking forward to Peerko's new Joana tall boots, and now they are here! Easy to style and to care for, this vegan leather boot is soft and so wearable.
Shapen Divine Black | Flexible Leather Ankle Boots
If you are looking for one boot that can do almost everything this autumn, this might be it. Shapen's Divine ankle boot is smart enough to dress up, comfortable enough to wear all day, and the styling opportunities are endless.
Ready for Rainy Days
Barefoot Kids Wellington Boots | Waterproof, Wide & Flexible
Wellies really come into their own in autumn. Whether it's a dash across the playground, a soggy dog walk, or a day at a breezy beach, a good pair of wellies and reliable rain gear is essential.
Our collection of barefoot wellingtons for adults is growing. You'll find lightweight, easy to pull on wellies that are packable, squishable, and fun to wear.
Xero Gracie Rain Boots Hunter | Lightweight & Flexible Wellies
Part ankle boot, part welly, Xero's Gracie is a style solution for our changeable weather. Practical protection and the comfort of barefoot footwear combine in a design that is both contemporary and wearable.
Pokeboo Adults Packable Wellies Khaki | Waterproof Boots
Pokeboo wellies take a different approach to wet weather footwear. With none of the bulk of a traditional welly, this clever, packable, Japanese design is perfect for people who don't let a little autumn downpour get in the way of being outdoors.
Mikk-Line Barefoot Wellies | Stone Blue Rain Boots
Puddles are there to be jumped in, and Mikk-Line's range of barefoot wellies for kids fit the brief perfectly. Comfortable, flexible and fun, they're built for young explorers who just want to be outdoors.
Fresh Air and Fitness
Adults Barefoot Trainers | Natural Fit for Active Days
Autumn is a great time to revive your activity levels after the summer. Crisp mornings and cooler temperatures make getting outdoors feel far more appealing. Hiking, trail running, or an autumn Parkrun: trainers that can cope with wet weather are a must. After all, no one wants soggy feet for the last kilometre.
Xero Men's HFS II Black | Barefoot Running Trainers
For stripped-back versatility, Xero's HFS II is ideal for those autumn runs. With a grippy outsole that inspires confidence on wet pavements, they are light, flexible and deliver that natural feel barefoot runners love while coping well in the season's less predictable conditions.
Freet Feldom Trail Black Grey | Vegan Grip Hiking Trainers
Built for runners, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Freet's Feldom minimalist trainer is made for the kind of autumn adventures when a little mud only adds to the fun. Grippy, lightweight, and ready for mixed terrain, Feldom is the shoe that will keep you outdoors.
The Finishing Touches
Barefoot Walking Boots | Lightweight Hike Shoes for Adults
The right footwear does most of the heavy lifting in autumn, but a few carefully chosen accessories can make all the difference when the weather turns.
A pair of cosy socks for chilly mornings, barefoot-friendly insoles for extra warmth, waterproofing products to help leather boots shrug off the rain, or dependable rain gear for days when the forecast looks less than promising- these small additions can help you stay comfortable outdoors for longer.
It's also the season for rediscovering autumn staples. Think soft tights paired with your favourite barefoot boots, chunky socks in autumnal hues for weekend walks, and practical bits and bobs that help your footwear look and perform its best throughout the months ahead.
Solmate Mirage Socks | Cosy and Stylish Socks for Adults
Solmate socks are recycled, sustainable, and wonderfully roomy socks that pair so well with autumn looks.
Shoestring Shoe Care Kit | Leather Polish Travel Set
Keeping everything in one place makes it much easier to stay on top of footwear care. Shoestring's Shoe Care Kit comes neatly packed in a smart navy barrel case, with all the essentials needed to keep your favourite shoes and boots looking their best. It makes a thoughtful gift too.
The Slowing Down Season
More Help
We’ve created a space filled with advice to help you get the very best from your barefoot shoe shopping. From detailed sizing guides, resources and blogs, to tips on making the most of our delivery options, you’ll find it all in The Advice Hub.
If you’d like a little more tailored support, do get in touch. Our Customer Service team love talking all things barefoot and are always happy to help.
We hope you love your purchase, but if something isn’t quite right, we offer free returns. For full details, please see our Returns Policy.
