Availability and Discontinuation
Vibram FiveFingers toe shoes remain on the market as of 2025, but their availability has shifted. The FiveFingers line is still active – in fact Vibram launched new models in its Fall/Winter 2025 collection, such as the Grounsplay (for everyday versatility), Trailope (for trail use), and Roadcozy/Roadaround . This indicates the FiveFingers concept has not been entirely discontinued. Core performance models (for running, outdoor, gym, etc.) continue to be produced and updated. For example, classic styles like the KSO EVO, V-Run, V-Trail, V-Alpha and others have seen fresh color releases in 2025 , reaffirming Vibram’s commitment to the minimalist footwear niche.
However, Vibram has discontinued several specific FiveFingers models, especially in the casual “lifestyle” category. In late 2024 the company announced it would cut its entire lineup of lifestyle-oriented FiveFingers, ceasing production of models like the KSO ECO (an eco-friendly everyday shoe) and the VI-B (a lightweight women’s casual shoe), among others . These styles – which were designed more for everyday or leisure wear – are no longer being made. The remaining FiveFingers portfolio is now focused on athletic and outdoor uses (e.g. running, training, trekking, water sports), while the fashion/casual designs have been pared down. Some previously popular variants (such as the ballet-flat inspired VI-B and the V-Soul yoga shoe) have become hard to find new, as they were discontinued during this streamlining . In summary, the FiveFingers line as a whole is not discontinued, but Vibram has retired certain low-demand models to concentrate on its best-selling and newest performance designs.
Reasons Behind Market Changes
The market trajectory of Vibram FiveFingers reflects the boom-and-bust cycle of the barefoot running trend. FiveFingers enjoyed a surge of popularity in the late 2000s and early 2010s amid the minimalist footwear craze, but that “brief, passionate affair” burned out over a decade ago . After the initial hype faded, mainstream demand dropped sharply. Factors contributing to the decline included injury concerns for unprepared wearers and a general shift to maximalist cushioned shoes in the running world. Vibram also faced a reputation setback in 2014 when it settled a class-action lawsuit over unproven health benefit claims, agreeing to stop marketing FiveFingers with claims of strengthening muscles or reducing injuries . This legal issue, while not directly ending FiveFingers production, dampened the product’s image and forced Vibram to adopt a more cautious marketing approach.
In response to these market changes, Vibram adjusted its strategy. The company pulled back from mass distribution channels and focused on specialist markets. Notably, Vibram ceased direct sales of FiveFingers through Amazon in 2019 as part of a strategy to support specialty retailers and have more control over customer experience . (Vibram’s Chief Brand Officer stated this was a “strong decision in distribution” made to preserve the brand’s value and partnerships .) Instead of chasing broad mass-market appeal, Vibram leaned into its core audience of enthusiasts and athletes who appreciate the barefoot philosophy. The discontinuation of the casual/lifestyle models in 2024 fits this narrative – those styles likely had lower sales, and Vibram opted to streamline its lineup to focus on performance and training-oriented models that align with its heritage. Insiders have noted that Vibram is “not in the ‘trend’ business,” and the company has struggled with some supply chain inconsistencies for niche models . By pruning less popular styles, Vibram can concentrate resources on improving availability and updates for its mainline shoes.
Ironically, just as Vibram pared down its offerings, toe shoes saw an unexpected resurgence as a fashion trend in 2025. High-profile design collaborations and an “ugly shoe” style wave drove renewed interest in FiveFingers. According to global shopping platform Lyst, FiveFingers sales spiked by an astounding 110% between April and June 2025 . Fashion editors noted that influencers and sneakerheads embraced FiveFingers as a bold anti-establishment statement, putting the once-outcast toe shoes on “summer mood boards” in a way not seen before . This trend-driven demand temporarily outpaced supply, especially for the discontinued casual models, leading some fans to scour resale markets. The surge has highlighted a gap between Vibram’s current product focus and the burgeoning style-driven interest. While Vibram did introduce some new casual-friendly designs in 2025 (e.g. the airy Breezandal sandal-shoe for women ), the company has largely stuck to its performance roots. Going forward, it remains to be seen if Vibram will bring back lifestyle models (there is chatter about a possible VI-B reintroduction in 2026) or simply enjoy the brand exposure as other manufacturers take cues from the barefoot trend. In summary, the FiveFingers market waned after its early explosion, leading Vibram to consolidate its lineup, but a recent trend-driven revival has put a spotlight back on these unique shoes, albeit in a way the brand hadn’t fully anticipated.
Where to Buy FiveFingers Today
With FiveFingers now a niche product, the primary avenue to buy new Vibram FiveFingers is through Vibram’s own official channels. The company’s official website (regional Vibram online stores) carries the latest models and current inventory for men’s, women’s, and unisex FiveFingers . Vibram sometimes operates flagship or pop-up stores in certain cities, but these are limited; the online store is the most reliable source for the full range and sizes. Notably, Vibram emphasizes that only purchases via its official site or authorized dealers are guaranteed genuine and covered by warranty . This is important because counterfeit or knock-off five-toe shoes have circulated in the past. Buying direct from Vibram ensures you get the real product with Vibram’s quality control.
Outside of Vibram’s website, authorized third-party retailers offer FiveFingers, though availability varies by region. Specialty barefoot and outdoor gear shops are your best bet. For example, in Europe dedicated retailers like Barefoot Junkie (UK) and Soleman (NL) stock FiveFingers in various models and sizes (including some discontinued styles as remaining stock). In the U.S., large mainstream sporting goods stores seldom carry FiveFingers in-store anymore, but certain running/outdoor stores or online retailers may carry a limited selection. It’s worth checking if any local running specialty shops or outdoor outfitters have leftover inventory. Some fashion boutiques have also jumped on the trend – for instance, Naked Copenhagen (DK) and Free People (US) have featured FiveFingers during the 2025 “toe shoe” craze . These fashion retailers may carry limited edition colors or specific models as a style statement.
Online marketplaces provide another avenue, especially for past models or bargains – with some caveats. On Amazon, FiveFingers can be found, but since Vibram halted direct sales to Amazon, listings are now mostly via third-party sellers . This means inventory might be old stock or imports, and sizes/colors are hit or miss. If using Amazon, look for sellers with good ratings and be aware that return policies could vary. eBay and other resale platforms (Poshmark, Mercari, etc.) are popular for both new-old-stock and used FiveFingers. You can often find discontinued models (like the VI-B or older-generation KSOs) on eBay, sometimes unworn in box from people who bought the wrong size. Prices on the second-hand market range widely: collector-favorite or scarce models might command high prices, while used pairs can be very cheap. When buying used, carefully check photos for sole wear or damage to the toe pockets. Also note that FiveFingers sizing is unique – trying on in person is ideal, but if buying online, consult Vibram’s size chart and consider seller measurements. In summary, buying new FiveFingers is best done via Vibram or authorized retailers for guaranteed authenticity , whereas marketplaces offer additional options especially for discontinued models or deals, albeit with more diligence required.
Best Alternatives to Vibram FiveFingers
If FiveFingers are hard to find or not your style, there are plenty of high-quality minimalist and barefoot-style footwear alternatives in 2025. These shoes don’t have individual toe pockets, but they share the same philosophy of natural foot movement: a wide toe box for toe splay, thin flexible soles, zero or low heel-to-toe drop, and lightweight construction. Below is a comparison of some of the best barefoot/minimalist shoe alternatives available today, spanning use cases from running and training to casual everyday wear:
| Brand & Model | Design & Features | Intended Use | Approx. Price | Where to Buy |
| Vivobarefoot Primus Lite (Men’s/Women’s) | Ultralight mesh/knit upper; extremely thin sole (~4–6 mm) for maximum ground feel; wide toe box and zero-drop. Removable insole for slight cushioning if needed . | Running, gym training, or everyday urban wear for experienced minimalist users. | ~$170 USD (≈£135) | Vivobarefoot official website, shoe retailers (e.g. available via Vivobarefoot and at stores like REI) . |
| Merrell Vapor Glove 6 (Men’s/Women’s) | Breathable mesh upper with sock-like fit; zero cushion outsole (6.5 mm) provides barefoot-level flexibility; very lightweight (≈5 oz) . Traditional sneaker look but no arch support or padding. | Road running, treadmill, gym workouts, and foot-strengthening exercises. Also used as a minimalist everyday sneaker by some. | $100–$120 USD | Merrell’s website and authorized retailers (running stores, online marketplaces). Widely available via Merrell’s distribution. |
| Xero Shoes HFS II (Men’s/Women’s) | Engineered mesh upper and huarache-inspired lacing for secure fit; zero-drop sole (~5 mm rubber + insole, total ~12 mm stack) giving more protection while still flexing well . Very wide toe box. Vegan materials. | Road running and cross-training. A good all-around athletic shoe for those transitioning to minimalist footwear (offers a touch more sole thickness for comfort). | ~$120 USD | Xero Shoes official site (global shipping) and major retailers (e.g. some models on Amazon or Zappos) . Also sold in select outdoor/fitness stores. |
| Altra Escalante 4 (Men’s/Women’s) | Knit upper running shoe with a foot-shaped wide toe box; zero drop, moderate cushion (≈24 mm EVA foam sole) – not as thin as others, but very flexible for its stack height. Feels soft underfoot yet allows natural gait. | Running (road running, longer distances) for those who want a barefoot-friendly shape but with more cushioning. Great as a transition shoe or for blending minimalism with comfort on longer runs. | ~$130 USD | Available at mainstream running shoe retailers (Running Warehouse, REI, etc.) and Altra’s website. Altra is a common brand in specialty running stores. |
| Lems Primal Zen (Men’s/Women’s) | Casual minimalist sneaker with knit/mesh and microfiber upper; zero-drop, thin sole (~8–9 mm) that is thicker than ultra-barefoot shoes but still very flexible. Very wide toe box for toe splay . Stylish low-profile design that doesn’t look “odd” – passes as a regular casual shoe. | Everyday walking, travel, and casual wear. Designed to be beginner-friendly for those new to barefoot shoes – offers natural foot movement without being overly extreme . Not meant for intense running, but fine for light activities. | ~$120 USD | Lems official website (ships internationally). Some models available via Amazon and small shoe boutiques. Often sold online direct-to-consumer. |
Table: Notable minimalist (“barefoot”) shoe alternatives to FiveFingers in 2025, featuring design highlights, uses, pricing, and where to buy. All listed models prioritize a wide toe box and flexible, low-profile sole, though they differ in cushioning and target activity.
In addition to the above, there are other excellent barefoot-style footwear brands to consider:
- Vivobarefoot (Full Range) – Vivobarefoot offers many models beyond the Primus Lite. For trail enthusiasts, the Primus Trail FG provides off-road grip with minimal padding , while casual wearers might opt for Vivobarefoot’s leather models (like the Geo Court or Ra) for a more polished look. Vivobarefoot shoes are premium-priced but known for high quality and a true barefoot feel. They are often cited as a gold standard in this category.
- Merrell’s Barefoot Line – Apart from the Vapor Glove, Merrell produces the Trail Glove (now on its 7th iteration) which adds a bit more outsole thickness and rock protection for trail running . These shoes benefit from Merrell’s mainstream build quality and are easier to find in stores. Merrell’s barefoot line has the aesthetics of regular athletic shoes, appealing to those who want function without a radical look.
- Xero Shoes and Sandals – Xero has expanded from sandals into all types of footwear. In addition to the HFS, their Prio is a popular cross-training shoe, and the Scrambler and TerraFlex models serve trail runners and hikers (featuring rugged Michelin soles) . For ultra-minimalist runners or beach use, Xero still sells huarache-style sandals (like the Z-Trail) which offer a barefoot experience similar to FiveFingers in openness. Xero’s products generally cost around $100 and are known for a 5,000-mile sole warranty, emphasizing durability.
- Other Barefoot Brands – Be Lenka (from Europe) and Feelgrounds (Germany) make stylish barefoot casual shoes and sneakers that cater to everyday fashion while keeping zero-drop, flexible designs. Wildling Shoes (Germany) create lightweight minimalist shoes often made with wool or canvas; for example, the Wildling Mar was praised for its ultra-thin 2.5 mm outsole that gives “remarkable ground feedback,” though it’s intended for experienced barefoot users and casual wear, not running . Softstar (USA) handcrafts moccasin-like running and casual shoes that are extremely foot-friendly. Luna Sandals and Shamma Sandals offer high-quality minimalist sandals for running or hiking, which some barefoot runners prefer in warm climates. Finally, for those on a budget, there are inexpensive options like the Whitin or Saguaro brands on Amazon – these mimic the barefoot shoe shape at lower prices. However, budget models often have poorer craftsmanship and may not last as long , so investing in a reputable brand is wise for serious use.
Each of these alternatives allows you to enjoy the benefits of barefoot-style footwear – such as enhanced foot strength, balance, and proprioception – without needing five separate toe pockets. Sports medicine experts note that even as maximalist cushioned shoes dominate, minimalist shoes “have potential benefits…including improving foot strength and mobility” when used appropriately . Whether you’re looking to replace your old FiveFingers or just explore the world of minimalist footwear, the market in 2025 offers a diverse array of choices. By considering the design, intended activity, and fit of each alternative, you can find a shoe that provides a natural, freeing feel similar to Vibram FiveFingers, while suiting your personal style and needs. The barefoot movement has matured since FiveFingers first hit the scene, and now many brands carry the torch of letting your feet move as nature intended.