Minimal, Functional, and Grounded
Looking for the closest thing to walking barefoot—without actually going barefoot?
Huarache-style sandals are the ultimate minimalist footwear. Inspired by traditional indigenous Mexican designs, these sandals use a simple sole and a strap system to hold the shoe in place with as little material as possible. No arch support, no heel rise—just you and the ground.
I’ve tested and researched all the major options, from ultra-minimal runners to more lifestyle-friendly pairs. Whether you’re looking to run trails, lounge on the beach, or explore the idea of grounding with copper plugs, this guide covers the full range.
🦶 What Are Huarache Sandals?
Huarache sandals are characterised by:
- Zero-drop soles (no heel-to-toe rise)
- Ultra-thin soles (usually 4–10mm)
- Foot-conforming lacing instead of rigid straps
- Maximum breathability and flexibility
Modern brands have adapted the traditional huarache style into high-performance barefoot sandals for running, hiking, and daily wear.
🧭 Comparison Table: Best Huarache-Style Barefoot Sandals
| Brand & Model | Sole Thickness | Weight | Ground Feel | Strap Type | Grounding | RRP | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luna Sandals Mono Winged Edition | 11mm | 180g | ★★★★☆ | Tech Strap | Optional Copper Plug | £110 | All-round use, trail to town |
| Xero Shoes Genesis | 5mm | 113g | ★★★★★ | Toe + heel loop | No | £45 | Ultralight running, travel |
| Earth Runners Alpha | 9mm | 125g | ★★★★☆ | Nylon lace w/ earthing plug | Yes | £85 | Grounding, casual & hiking |
| Shamma Sandals Warrior | 6mm | 120g | ★★★★★ | UltraGrip Power Strap | Optional | £85 | Trail running, technical terrain |
| Bedrock Cairn Adventure | 14mm | 180g | ★★★☆☆ | Webbing + buckle | No | £110 | Backpacking, rocky trails |
| Deliberate Life Adventure Sandals | 10mm | 130g | ★★★★☆ | Lacing + grounding | Yes | £75 | Earthing + everyday wear |
🔥 Standout Sandals & Why
🥇 Luna Sandals Mono Winged Edition
A true all-rounder. This is the sandal I’d recommend for anyone who wants one huarache-style shoe that can go from trail to town. The “winged” tech straps solve the classic problem of strap slippage, and the tread handles most terrains well.
Buy from Luna Sandals
🥈 Earth Runners Alpha – Best for Grounding
If you’re interested in earthing or grounding, Earth Runners are your go-to. They include a copper grounding plug and conductive stitching that runs through the strap to the foot. It’s designed to maintain a barefoot-style electrical connection to the earth.
Grounding science is still debated, but many users report better sleep, reduced inflammation, and a “calm connected” feeling.
Buy direct from Earth Runners
🥉 Xero Shoes Genesis – Best Budget Pick
Super light, super thin, and surprisingly comfortable. These sandals weigh almost nothing and pack flat, making them ideal for travel or throwing in your gym bag.
The Genesis is a classic huarache update with modern materials, great for natural runners or minimalists on a budget.
View on Amazon UK
Or buy from Xero Shoes
⚡ Honourable Mentions
- Shamma Warrior – Best grip and response for trail running
- Bedrock Cairn – Slightly more built-up but great for rocky terrain
- Deliberate Life Sandals – UK-based grounding option for daily wear
🧠 What About Copper-Plated Grounding?
Some huarache-style sandals come with a small copper plug embedded into the sole. This plug is designed to make contact with the ground and conduct the earth’s natural charge to your foot.
Does it work?
- ✅ If you’re standing or walking on conductive surfaces (grass, soil, sand), yes—at least technically
- 🧪 The health claims (better sleep, reduced inflammation, cortisol regulation) are not fully proven, but many users swear by it
- ⚠️ Copper doesn’t work on concrete or indoors
Earth Runners and Deliberate Life Sandals offer the best earthing functionality currently.
🧭 Choosing the Right Huarache Sandal for You
| Use Case | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Trail running | Shamma Warrior or Luna Mono |
| Grounding | Earth Runners Alpha |
| Daily walking/travel | Xero Genesis or Deliberate Life |
| Rocky terrain | Bedrock Cairn or Luna Oso |
| Style + function | Earth Runners or Luna Mono |
🛒 Where to Buy
- Luna Sandals → Shop direct
- Earth Runners → Shop direct
- Xero Shoes → XeroShoes.com
- Amazon UK → View options
- Deliberate Life Sandals (UK) → Visit site
🌞 Final Thoughts
Huarache sandals are as close as it gets to going barefoot, while still protecting your soles from rocks, glass, and sun-scorched pavements.
If you want maximum ground feel with secure comfort, the Luna Mono and Shamma Warrior are top-tier.
If you’re interested in grounding or just walking more naturally day to day, Earth Runners are your best bet—and they look great too.
Explore the full range at Luna Sandals
Or check top sellers on Amazon UK
📩 Free Download: “Guide to Barefoot Sandals by Season & Use Case”
Want help choosing the right barefoot sandal for your needs?
👉 [Get the free guide here] (email opt-in)