Which Softstar Barefoot Boot Is Right For You?
When shopping for barefoot shoes, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Barefoot boots are no exception. Every foot is unique, and finding the right boot comes down to choosing the fit and features that work best for you. At Softstar, we design and craft a variety of boots for different foot shapes and needs.
All of Softstar's boots are designed with flexible, zero-drop soles and wider toe boxes than conventional boots. Additionally, they're all handcrafted right here in Oregon using high-quality, sustainably-sourced leather that stretches and forms to your unique feet. They're also all resoleable by your local cobbler!
Considerations When Picking a Barefoot Boot
Deciding on a new pair of barefoot boots is no easy feat. Asking yourself the following questions can help define your needs and narrow down your options.
- Why do you need boots? For hiking? Everyday casual wear? Something to dress up an outfit? To wear to the office? To keep your feet warm in freezing weather?
- Do you have narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide feet?
- Are your feet low, medium, or high volume?
- Do you like a bit of cushion, or something as minimal as possible?
Once you've answered these questions, it's time to narrow down which Softstar boot will best suit your needs.
The Switchback Boot II
Our fan-favorite rugged hiking boot.
Best For:
- Hiking and outdoor use
- Wet weather
- Medium-to-wide feet
- Low-to-medium volume feet
Key Features:
- Gusseted tongue for increased water-resistance
- Moisture-wicking merino wool interior lining
- High-traction Vibram Megagrip sole
Sizing and Fit: True to size for most, but if you measure towards the upper end of your size range or have higher volume feet, you may want to size up. Available on our Hybrid Regular and Hybrid Wide widths (see our sole shape comparison tool to compare).
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Adult Switchback Boot II
$285.00
The Primal Chelsea Boot
An everyday slip-on Chelsea boot designed for extra-wide feet.
Best For:
- Casual/everyday wear
- Wide-to-extra wide feet
- Low-to-medium volume feet
Key Features:
- Elastic side panels for easy on/off
- Moisture-wicking merino wool blend interior lining
- Generously wide toe box
Sizing and Fit: True to size for most, but if you measure towards the upper end of your size range or plan to wear thick socks, you may want to size up. Available on our Primal Regular and Primal Wide widths (see our sole shape comparison tool to compare).
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Adult PRIMAL Chelsea Boot
$219.00
The Phoenix Boot
A mid-calf sheepskin-lined winter boot.
Best For:
- Maximum winter warmth
- Narrow-to-wide feet
- Low-to-medium volume feet
Key Features:
- Fully lined with plush genuine sheepskin
- Thicker sole for more insulation from the cold ground
- Customizable with different colors
Sizing and Fit: True to size for most, but if you measure towards the upper end of your size range, plan to wear thick socks, or have higher-volume feet, you may want to size up. Available on our Hybrid Regular sole shape. (see our sole shape comparison tool to compare). Also available in kids’ sizes!
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Adult Phoenix Boot
Starting at $280.00
The Astoria Boot
A polished double-zip ankle boot.
Best For:
- Office wear or dressy outfits
- Narrow, medium, and wide foot shapes
- Mid-to-high volume feet
Key Features:
- Dual zipper design for easy on/off
- Soft leather interior lining
- Removeable suede-topped Poron foam insole
- Thicker cushioned outsole
Sizing and Fit: True to size. Available on our Standard Regular Hybrid Wide sole shapes. (see our sole shape comparison tool to compare).
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New
Adult Astoria Boot
Starting at $225.00
The Hawthorne Chukka
A classy chukka boot that can be dressed up or down.
Best For:
- Casual/everyday or elevated wear
- Narrow, medium, and wide foot shapes
- Low-to-medium volume feet
Key Features:
- Unlined and breathable
- Firm suede insole
- Available with a leather sole option
Sizing and Fit: Available on our Standard Regular and Hybrid Wide sole shapes (see our sole shape comparison tool to compare). The Regular width may feel snug at first. While the leather will stretch over time, you may consider going up a size if you measure at upper end of your size range. The Wide width is roomier and more likely to be true to your normal Softstar size.
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Adult Hawthorne Chukka
$200.00 -
Adult Hawthorne Chukka - Leather Sole
$200.00
Quick Boot Comparison Guide
Use this chart to compare specifications across all Softstar boots.
| Style | Sole Shape | Outsole | Total Stack Height | Cushioned Insole? |
| Switchback Boot II | Hybrid Regular Hybrid Wide | Vibram® Megagrip | 17 mm | Yes |
| Primal Chelsea Boot | Primal Regular Primal Wide | Vibram® Coffee Bean | 15 mm | Yes |
| Astoria Boot | Standard Regular Hybrid Wide | Vibram® Geo | 17 mm | Yes |
| Phoenix Boot | Hybrid Regular | Vibram® Tundra | 12 mm (not including sheepskin fluff) | Yes |
| Hawthorne Chukka | Standard Regular Hybrid Wide | Vibram® Geo | 12 mm | No |
Pick Your Favorite Barefoot Boot
Now that you've explored our different barefoot boots, it's time to determine your size. All of our styles are unisex, thus we use a unique Unisex sizing system. To get the best fit, we highly recommend measuring your feet using the instructions on our size guide. Please note that our sizing guide is universal to all of our products, so be sure to take any product-specific sizing recommendations into account when choosing a size.
We know that purchasing a new pair of boots is a financial commitment, so our friendly customer service team is more than happy to help! Please reach out to us if you need additional assistance picking the right style, determining your size, or if you have any additional questions.
Anna joined the Softstar team in 2022 approximately a year after graduating from Oregon State University with a dual degree in Marketing and Management. She grew up on a local, rural farm and her passions include exploring the Oregon outdoors, traveling, sports, and playing instruments.