Is this a good first barefoot shoe?

It can be, but the zero-drop, thin sole asks a lot of untrained feet. Start with short walks and build up over several weeks before running in them.

How does it compare with cushioned trail runners?

It gives far more ground feel and toe room but much less impact protection. Cushioned shoes are better for long, rocky runs; this one suits short runs and natural-form training.

Does the wide toe box fit wide feet?

Yes, the toe box is the point of the shoe and gives noticeably more width than standard running shoes. The midfoot and heel are closer to normal width.

Can I use them for the gym and everyday walking?

Yes. The flat, flexible sole works well for lifting and general walking, and the mesh upper stays cool for all-day wear.

Are they good for hiking?

For easy, dry trails and city paths, yes. The thin sole and minimal protection make them a poor choice for rocky, wet or long mountain routes.

What do buyers say about the HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes?

Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 110 ratings.

HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes

Best price now

$35.99at WalmartChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Walmart

HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes

Best price now

$35.99at WalmartChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Walmart

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Price facts

Last seen at $35.99 at Walmart on Nov 10.

Our take on the HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes

The HOBIBEAR is a barefoot-style shoe with a wide toe box, a zero-drop platform and a thin, flexible sole. The breathable mesh upper and light build suit runners and walkers who want their feet to move naturally rather than be cushioned and guided. Against cushioned trail shoes it gives far more ground feel and toe room but much less impact protection on hard, rocky ground. Owners rate it well overall, with fit and comfort the usual praise and durability the usual complaint.

Best forRunners transitioning to barefoot or zero-drop formPeople with wide feet or bunions who need toe roomGym work, walking and light trail useTravelers wanting a light, packable shoe

Pros

Wide toe box gives toes room to spread
Zero-drop, thin sole builds foot strength
Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool
Flexible and light on the foot
Slip-resistant outsole for streets and easy trails

Cons

Thin sole offers little protection from rocks and roots
Zero drop takes weeks to adapt to and can strain calves
Little cushioning for long road distances
Durability questioned by some owners

HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes prices at every store

WalmartNew
In stockSold by HOBIBEAR ShoesReturns: Sold by a Walmart Marketplace seller; returns go to the seller under the seller's returns policy.
$35.99Checked Nov 10
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What reviewers say

4.4 / 5110 ratings

Owners like the roomy toe box and the natural, close-to-ground feel, and many wear them for walking and gym work as much as running. The main complaints are the thin sole on rough ground and how long the shoes last.

What people mention

Toe boxPraisedOwners say the wide front gives toes room to spread without pinching.
Ground feelMixedThe thin, flexible sole is liked for natural movement but feels harsh on rocky ground.
CushioningCriticisedReviewers say there is little padding for long runs on hard surfaces.
DurabilityCriticisedSome owners report the upper and outsole wearing faster than expected.
BreathabilityPraisedThe mesh upper keeps feet cool on warm days and during workouts.
Zero-drop transitionMixedBeginners note calf and Achilles soreness until they adapt to the flat platform.

About the HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes

These minimalist trail running shoes have a wide toe box with 1.5X more space, so toes can spread naturally and feel less pressure. The sole is zero-drop and ultra-thin, which gives a barefoot-style feel.

The upper is breathable mesh. The outsole is slip-resistant for city streets or hiking trails. The shoes are lightweight and flexible, and are suited to outdoor activities, gym workouts and all-day wear.

Toe box: Wide, with 1.5X more toe space
Sole: Zero-drop, ultra-thin, slip-resistant
Upper: Breathable mesh
Style: Barefoot, minimalist
Use: Trail running, hiking, gym workouts, everyday wear

Specifications

shoe_size: 12 Wide Women/11 Wide MenSource
color: BeigeSource
actual_color: BeigeSource

Questions and answers

Is this a good first barefoot shoe?: It can be, but the zero-drop, thin sole asks a lot of untrained feet. Start with short walks and build up over several weeks before running in them.
How does it compare with cushioned trail runners?: It gives far more ground feel and toe room but much less impact protection. Cushioned shoes are better for long, rocky runs; this one suits short runs and natural-form training.
Does the wide toe box fit wide feet?: Yes, the toe box is the point of the shoe and gives noticeably more width than standard running shoes. The midfoot and heel are closer to normal width.
Can I use them for the gym and everyday walking?: Yes. The flat, flexible sole works well for lifting and general walking, and the mesh upper stays cool for all-day wear.
Are they good for hiking?: For easy, dry trails and city paths, yes. The thin sole and minimal protection make them a poor choice for rocky, wet or long mountain routes.
Where is the HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes cheapest?: At Walmart, for $35.99, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the HOBIBEAR Men's Minimalist Trail Running Shoes?: Rated 4.4 out of 5 from 110 ratings.