Is the Hobibear Reed a true barefoot shoe?

Yes. It has a zero-drop, flat sole with no arch support and a wide toe box, so the foot moves as it would barefoot. The sole is thin and flexible rather than cushioned.

How does it compare with cushioned running shoes?

It gives far more ground feel and toe room but much less impact protection. Runners used to thick midsoles should transition gradually to avoid calf and Achilles strain.

Is it good for wide feet?

The wide toe box is one of its most praised traits and suits broad feet and bunions. The upper is soft, so it adapts to the foot shape.

Can I wear it in rain or on trails?

The porous upper is built for airflow, not weather protection, so water and dust get through easily. It is best kept to dry roads, gyms and everyday wear.

Do I need socks with it?

It can be worn with or without socks. Without socks the porous upper breathes well, but some wearers prefer thin socks for moisture control and odor.

How long does it take to adjust to zero-drop shoes?

Most new barefoot wearers need a few weeks of short, gradual sessions before longer walks or runs. Start with brief outings and build up as calves and feet adapt.

Where is the Reed - Barefoot Shoes cheapest?

At Hobibear, for $46.99, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Reed - Barefoot Shoes?

Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 31 ratings.

Hobibear

Reed - Barefoot Shoes

Best price now

$46.99at HobibearChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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Hobibear discount code →

Hobibear

Reed - Barefoot Shoes

Best price now

$46.99at HobibearChecked Nov 10

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Hobibear

Hobibear discount code →

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Price facts

Last seen at $46.99 at Hobibear on Nov 10.

Our take on the Reed - Barefoot Shoes

The Hobibear Reed is a minimalist barefoot shoe built around a wide, flat toe box and a thin, flexible sole that lets the foot move as it would unshod. Its porous knit upper is made for airflow, so feet stay cooler during long wear. It suits runners and walkers moving to zero-drop shoes and anyone who wants a roomy toe box for daily wear. Against cushioned trainers it offers far less impact protection, and against premium barefoot brands it is a simpler, budget-minded build. Owners rate it well overall, with fit and breathability the usual highlights.

Best forRunners transitioning to zero-drop, minimalist shoesWide-footed walkers who want toe roomEveryday casual wear in warm weatherTravelers wanting a light, packable shoe

Pros

Wide toe box lets toes splay naturally
Thin, flexible sole gives ground feel
Porous upper keeps feet cool and dry
Zero-drop platform encourages natural stride
Light and easy to pack

Cons

Little cushioning for hard surfaces or long road runs
Thin sole offers minimal protection from sharp objects
Porous upper lets in water and dust
Sizing and fit can take getting used to for first-time barefoot wearers

Reed - Barefoot Shoes prices at every store

HobibearNew
In stockShips from China · duties may applyReturn policy
$46.99Checked Nov 10
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What reviewers say

4.6 / 531 ratings

Owners rate the Reed highly, praising the roomy fit and the cool, airy feel of the upper. The main complaints concern the thin sole on rough ground and the upper's poor performance in wet or dirty conditions.

What people mention

FitPraisedOwners say the wide toe box gives toes room to spread without pinching.
BreathabilityPraisedThe porous upper is described as keeping feet cool and dry during extended wear.
Ground feelPraisedThe thin, flexible sole is liked for the natural feel of the ground underfoot.
CushioningCriticisedSome find the sole too thin and unforgiving on hard pavement and long runs.
Weather protectionCriticisedThe porous upper lets water and dust in, so it performs poorly in wet or dirty conditions.

About the Reed - Barefoot Shoes

The Reed barefoot shoes from Hobibear are minimalist footwear designed to keep a natural barefoot feel. The porous design lets air flow through the shoe to help keep feet cool and dry during extended wear.

The shoes support natural foot mechanics, which helps build foot strength and balance with each step.

Brand: Hobibear
Style: Barefoot shoes
Design: Porous, breathable construction

Questions and answers

Is the Hobibear Reed a true barefoot shoe?: Yes. It has a zero-drop, flat sole with no arch support and a wide toe box, so the foot moves as it would barefoot. The sole is thin and flexible rather than cushioned.
How does it compare with cushioned running shoes?: It gives far more ground feel and toe room but much less impact protection. Runners used to thick midsoles should transition gradually to avoid calf and Achilles strain.
Is it good for wide feet?: The wide toe box is one of its most praised traits and suits broad feet and bunions. The upper is soft, so it adapts to the foot shape.
Can I wear it in rain or on trails?: The porous upper is built for airflow, not weather protection, so water and dust get through easily. It is best kept to dry roads, gyms and everyday wear.
Do I need socks with it?: It can be worn with or without socks. Without socks the porous upper breathes well, but some wearers prefer thin socks for moisture control and odor.
How long does it take to adjust to zero-drop shoes?: Most new barefoot wearers need a few weeks of short, gradual sessions before longer walks or runs. Start with brief outings and build up as calves and feet adapt.
Where is the Reed - Barefoot Shoes cheapest?: At Hobibear, for $46.99, as of our latest check.
What do buyers say about the Reed - Barefoot Shoes?: Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 31 ratings.