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In the world of footwear, a unique segment is making strides - barefoot shoes. According to Carl-August Seibel, chairman of the Federal Association of the Shoe and Leather Industry, these shoes are one of the few segments growing well in the industry [1].
As of 2025, specific market growth and target expansion data for barefoot shoes alone are not explicitly detailed in the search results. However, insights can be inferred from related sectors within the footwear market.
The Marathon Running Shoes Market, which includes specialized running footwear segments, is projected to grow from an estimated USD 6.5 billion in 2024 to USD 10.2 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.5% [1]. Given barefoot shoes often appeal to running and fitness consumers seeking minimalist or natural foot movement, this segment's growth suggests potential positive momentum for barefoot shoes within the broader running shoe market.
Key factors driving this growth include new technologies, increasing customer consumption, and wider usage, implying expanding market opportunities [1]. Geographical target expansions cover North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa, which indicates barefoot shoe brands might pursue global market penetration strategies in line with these regions.
Other footwear market trends showing growth include handmade and artisanal shoes growing at about 6% over the past two years, reflecting consumer interest in niche, comfort-oriented shoe segments [2]. Additionally, premium and sustainable footwear launches (e.g., Berkemann’s premium brand with sustainable materials) indicate a growing market focus on quality and sustainability that barefoot shoe brands could leverage [4].
Large companies like Deckers (owner of HOKA) reported strong sales growth (around 19% year-on-year) in early 2026, reflecting robust consumer demand in performance and specialty footwear categories that might overlap with barefoot or minimalist shoe trends [3].
Currently, the market share of barefoot shoes is estimated to be 1.2 to 1.6 percent of the shoe market [1]. However, an increase in market share to five to seven percent is expected in the coming years [1].
Barefoot shoes come in various varieties, including children's shoes and padded wild leather boots for women. There is a trend towards barefoot shoes that offer a natural running feeling with their flat and thin soles [1]. The design and style of barefoot shoes are becoming more appealing, attracting new target groups, according to Seibel [1].
The Barefoot Shoe Fair, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the world of barefoot shoes, is ongoing in Offenbach until August 3, 2025 [1]. This event underscores the growing interest and potential for barefoot shoes in the footwear market.
In summary, the related footwear segments, such as running and specialty shoes, are expected to grow steadily at around 5-6% CAGR up to 2025 and beyond [1][2]. Global target expansions focus on North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other regions [1]. Increasing interest in sustainability, craftsmanship, and premium positioning may shape barefoot shoe brand strategies [4]. Strong performance from major footwear brands indicates positive market conditions for innovation and category expansion [3].
This synthesis provides the best available forecast context for barefoot shoes within broader relevant footwear market trends.
Barefoot shoes, being appealing to running and fitness enthusiasts, may find positive growth related to the projected increase in the Marathon Running Shoes Market, which is expected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2033 [1]. As more consumers show interest in sustainability, craftsmanship, and premium footwear [4], barefoot shoe brands could potentially tap into these growing trends within the home-and-garden sector, as they shop for lifestyle-oriented footwear products.
