More and more people are looking for a more natural experience when walking and exploring in nature, and this is where barefoot sandals have gained popularity. Specially designed to mimic the feeling of walking barefoot, these sandals offer freedom, comfort and connection with the environment in every step.
At RRAT's Outdoor we understand the importance of choosing the right sandals for your outdoor adventures. Here we tell you everything you need to know to find the perfect pair.
What are barefoot sandals?
Barefoot sandals are characterized by a minimalist design with a drop 0 , that is, no elevation in the sole. By reducing support, they seek to make the foot work more naturally, activating muscles and tendons that usually remain at rest in conventional footwear. This freedom allows for more natural movement and increases sensitivity to the terrain, which helps improve balance and strengthen the feet.
For nature and hiking lovers, this type of sandals offers a more real and closer experience to the environment, something that many consider essential for their mountain getaways.
Benefits of wearing barefoot sandals in the mountains
Before we get into the details of how to choose barefoot sandals, it's important to review some of the benefits they offer to those who love the outdoors:
- Foot strengthening and improved posture : When walking in barefoot sandals, the feet are forced to support the body without any extra support, which activates the muscles and improves posture in the long term.
- Feeling of freedom : With a thin and flexible sole, these sandals offer freer movement, allowing the foot to adapt to uneven terrain.
- Greater connection with nature : Feeling the ground beneath your feet without losing the protection of a sole is a unique experience. This connection with the environment allows you to better anticipate your steps and enjoy the journey from a different perspective.
- Lightness and comfort : Barefoot sandals are much lighter than traditional hiking shoes. By reducing the weight on your feet, you also reduce muscle fatigue, which is ideal for extended hikes.
Keys to choosing the perfect barefoot sandals
Now that we know the benefits of barefoot sandals, let's see what aspects are essential when choosing the right pair for your hiking adventures.
1. Flexible and Resistant Sole
The sole is one of the most important elements of a barefoot sandal. For mountain hiking, the sole should be flexible enough to allow natural movement of the foot, but also sturdy enough to protect you from rocks, branches and other obstacles.
At RRAT's Outdoor , we use high-strength, grippy Vibram rubber soles. Flexibility is key to maintaining connection with the terrain, but it shouldn't compromise protection.
2. Secure Fit
Barefoot sandals need to fit your foot well to prevent unnecessary movement or slipping. That's why our RRAT's Outdoor hiking sandals offer adjustment systems that adapt to each type of foot, as we know that a good fit makes the difference between a comfortable walk and prolonged discomfort.
3. Light Weight
One of the big draws of barefoot sandals is their lightness . However, it's important to find a balance between weight and durability, especially if you plan on hiking long distances. Lighter sandals will reduce fatigue and improve your performance on long hikes , but you also need to make sure they're built to withstand extended use.
At RRAT's we have various models for each person's use and comfort. If you are looking for a totally minimalist sandal with an ultra-thin sole , we recommend choosing the RRAT's Y-Minimal or T-Minimal , everything will depend on whether you are looking for grip on the toe or the metatarsals.
On the other hand, if you want a minimalist sole, but a little thicker , we recommend one of our 3 models: Y-Mountain , Y-Gravel or T-Outdoor .
It is important to note that each sandal has different characteristics to ensure greater performance on each occasion.
4. Breathable and Durable Materials
For outdoor walks, especially in the summer, it is essential that barefoot sandals are made from breathable materials that help keep your feet cool and prevent excessive sweating. Also, make sure that the materials are durable and weather-resistant, as they will be exposed to demanding conditions such as sun, water, and constant friction.
5. Adaptable Design for Different Terrains
While barefoot sandals are known for their simplicity, there are different designs depending on the terrain. Some models are designed for rocky terrain, while others work better on softer surfaces. Before you decide, think about the type of routes you typically take. If you're an adventurer who explores all types of terrain, opt for a versatile design that combines a grippy sole with an adaptable fit.
RRAT's Outdoor offers different types of Vibram soles so you can choose the best option for your adventure.
For hikes of difficult difficulty, we recommend wearing RRAT's Y-Mountain , as their sole is specially designed for technical and complicated terrain.
On the other hand, if your hike is going to be of easy-medium difficulty, your perfect mountain sandals will be the Y-Gravel , T-Outdoor , Y-Minimal or T-Minimal , everything will depend on the type of grip you want and the thickness of the sole.
Common myths about barefoot sandals
It is common to encounter some resistance to wearing barefoot sandals, especially in the mountains. Here we clarify some of the most common myths so that you have a complete overview.
- "They don't offer enough protection" : Quality barefoot sandals are designed to protect without sacrificing flexibility. RRAT's Outdoor models offer durable and comfortable soles for all types of terrain.
- "They are only suitable for easy terrain": Although it is true that the first uses may be different for those who are not used to them, if barefoot sandals have a good sole designed for easy and difficult terrain, they can be used on all types of terrain.
In our case, if you are looking for a mountain sandal that is for technical and difficult terrain, we recommend the RRAT's Y-Mountain , equipped with the Vibram Megagrip sole.
RRAT's Y-Gravel and T-Outdoor sandals with Vibram Claw soles are recommended for medium-difficulty routes. On the other hand, RRAT's Y-Minimal and T-Minimal are the best options for barefoot lovers looking to feel everything under their feet.
- "They're not as comfortable as traditional footwear": The comfort of barefoot sandals depends largely on the quality of the design and fit. Once you adapt, the feeling of freedom and lightness outweighs any initial discomfort.
Choosing barefoot sandals is an investment in comfort, health and a genuine connection to nature. Before purchasing, make sure the design, fit and sole are tailored to your specific needs.
At RRAT's we know that every adventure is unique, which is why our models are designed to offer the best performance in various conditions.
Are you ready to take the plunge into the barefoot experience? Explore RRAT's Outdoor sandals range and get ready to feel nature beneath your feet like never before.