When, how and why to choose barefoot shoes with a membrane – dry feet, even when it rains

When, how and why to choose barefoot shoes with a membrane – dry feet, even when it rains When, how and why to choose barefoot shoes with a membrane – dry feet, even when it rains

Selecting and Maintaining Barefoot Shoes

Find out how a membrane works in barefoot shoes and how, with the right care and sock choice, you can get the most out of this technology for natural barefoot movement.

Barefoot shoes with a membrane combine natural movement with reliable protection from moisture. Whether your route takes you into the hills, through a rainy city, or across morning dew, you can enjoy all the benefits of barefoot movement while your feet – or your children’s little feet – stay dry. 

What does a membrane do in shoes?

Whether you’re a seasoned barefoot enthusiast or you’re only just discovering the magic of natural walking, a membrane lets you enjoy maximum freedom of movement regardless of rain or morning dew.

A membrane in shoes is a thin, technologically advanced layer of material between the upper and the lining, and it does two key jobs at the same time.

While it reliably prevents water from getting in from the outside, it also allows moisture and sweat to escape from the shoe. 

This ‘smart’ material works thanks to its special microporous structure – it contains millions of tiny pores that are much smaller than a drop of water, yet large enough for a water vapour molecule to pass through. It’s also windproof.

Types of membranes

Porous membranes (TEX, Gore-Tex) look like a dense sieve under a microscope. They use a network of microscopic openings that are up to 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water (waterproof) and 700 times larger than a water vapour molecule (breathable).

Non-porous membranes (PTX) work like a washing-up sponge: moisture is transported through the material via a molecular process. From the outside they don’t absorb liquid; from the inside they take in moisture and move it outwards. 

In barefoot footwear, you’ll most often come across a TEX membrane, valued for its lightness, flexibility and long lifespan – which makes it a perfect match for the minimalist shoe philosophy. A TEX membrane offers top-level protection against moisture. Thanks to its waterproof technology, it keeps your feet dry on mountain hikes, city walks and in unexpected downpours.

Glossary 

  • Water resistance: The material can resist water penetration for a certain time and at a certain pressure, but it isn’t 100% impermeable (e.g. it lasts two hours in the rain).
  • Water repellency: A surface treatment that makes water bead up and run off without soaking in. Water-repellent doesn’t mean waterproof!
  • Waterproofness: The highest level of protection against water. The material is completely impermeable even with prolonged exposure and high pressure (for example, all-day rain).
  • Wind resistance: The ability of a material to prevent wind from getting in, while still remaining breathable and allowing body moisture to escape.

Four benefits of barefoot shoes with a membrane

  1. Protection from moisture: The membrane provides reliable protection from damp in any environment – morning dew, sudden rain, or walking through wet grass. 
  2. Breathability maintained: The membrane allows natural moisture to escape, so your feet stay comfortably dry and at an optimal temperature all day.
  3. Wearing comfort: The minimalist design of barefoot shoes combined with a membrane delivers maximum comfort.
  4. Versatile use: Shoes with a membrane are great for hiking, the city, work and everyday walks. They adapt to your lifestyle all year round.

When to choose shoes with a membrane – and when without

Shoes with a membrane are an ideal choice for year-round outdoor activities, especially when you expect damp conditions, rain or snow. They’re brilliant for hiking in the mountains, long walks in changeable weather, or everyday wear during rainy periods. They’re also a favourite with young barefoot shoe fans.

On the other hand, shoes without a membrane are a better option for very warm days, when you’ll appreciate maximum breathability and lightness. They’re perfect for summer city wear, indoor activities, or whenever you want your feet to ‘breathe’ as much as possible. 

NaBOSo tip: When choosing shoes, also consider how much your feet sweat – if you sweat a lot, a membrane-free option can feel more comfortable on warmer days.

Alternatives to membrane barefoot shoes

One option is to pair classic barefoot shoes without a membrane with waterproof socks. This solution is very flexible, because you can use waterproof socks with any footwear in your wardrobe. However, bear in mind that in this combination your feet usually sweat more, and comfort may not be ideal for all-day wear. 

Another alternative is barefoot wellies, which are an ideal solution for extremely wet conditions. They’re a great choice for children and adults when you need maximum protection from water, but you’re planning on shorter wear – for example, a walk in the rain or playing in wet grass.

Wet inside your shoes? Find the cause

Wet shoes can be an unpleasant surprise, and to fix it effectively it’s crucial to identify the source of the moisture first. 

With membrane shoes, there are two main reasons for dampness – either the membrane has stopped doing its job and is letting water in from the outside, or it’s condensation from sweat inside the shoe. How can you tell the difference? 

  • If the shoes are leaking from the outside, moisture usually appears in specific areas (for example around seams or flex points), and you’ll often see wet patches on the outer surface. 
  • By contrast, sweaty shoes tend to be evenly damp throughout the inside, and the moisture appears even in dry weather. 

If your shoes are leaking, a high-quality waterproofing spray will help. If it’s sweat, better ventilation, good-quality performance socks, or rotating shoes during the day can make a difference.

Don’t underestimate choosing the right socks

A membrane will work reliably regardless of which socks you choose, but for maximum comfort, the right socks really matter. 

In barefoot shoes with a membrane, performance socks made from various synthetic materials work well – for example Coolmax, polypropylene, polyester and elastane.

If you prefer natural materials, like we do at naBOSo, merino wool socks (or socks with a high merino content) pair best with membrane shoes. Among purely natural materials, they offer excellent temperature regulation, are naturally antibacterial, wick sweat well, and keep you warm even when damp.

Avoid cotton socks. Why? Cotton absorbs moisture/sweat easily and dries slowly, which can lead to sweaty feet, blisters and a cold feeling inside your shoes.

Caring for shoes with a membrane

Proper care for barefoot shoes with a membrane not only extends their lifespan, but above all preserves the membrane’s performance.

  • Remove dust and dirt with a soft brush, a damp cloth or a sponge. Avoid harsh cleaning products that could damage the membrane. Lukewarm water is enough.
  • Dry at room temperature. Never place shoes near a direct heat source (radiator, sun) – it can disrupt the membrane structure and cause it to degrade. 

Waterproofing 

A key part of maintaining membrane shoes is regular waterproofing. It protects the material from water and dirt – and in winter months, from aggressive road salts too.

Always use a waterproofing product specifically designed for membrane materials (TEX). Standard waterproofing products can clog the membrane’s micropores and reduce its performance – especially breathability. 

Spray the waterproofing spray from a distance of about 20 cm over the entire surface of clean shoes and leave to dry. Pay special attention to seams and joins, where water most often gets in. Repeat the application according to the specific manufacturer’s recommendations – ideally every 14 days.

Choose barefoot shoes with a membrane too

Footwear with membrane technology is an essential part of the kit for active people. In our experience, children’s shoes with a membrane are appreciated by all parents for kids of every age – from year-round children’s shoes to cosy winter pairs.

Thanks to the exceptional properties and comfort membrane footwear offers, this technology has gradually made its way into everyday shoes too – from trainers to autumn and winter shoes, right through to boots.

In our range of barefoot shoes with a membrane, you’ll find options for both leather lovers and fans of vegan materials. Filters on the e-shop make choosing easier. Just enter the parameters you want and view only the relevant models.

Most popular barefoot shoes with a membrane at naBOSo

In our brick-and-mortar shops and online, barefoot shoes with a membrane are among the most popular. You’ll find women’s, men’s and children’s models. Shoes for hiking, the city and winter.

Children’s barefoot shoes with a membrane

  • RAYVE: A Czech brand offering year-round and winter membrane models, known for a wide fit in the forefoot and high-quality workmanship.
  • FRODDO: A Croatian manufacturer best known for leather membrane shoes, with a characteristically medium-wide fit, ideal for year-round wear.
  • BEDA: A local brand focused on an anatomical shape, offering winter membrane models suitable even for wider little feet.
  • AFFENZAHN: Playful children’s barefoot shoes with animal motifs; the winter models are equipped with a membrane and stand out for their lightness.
  • BABY BARE: Czech barefoot shoes with a membrane for the very smallest, available in winter and year-round versions, known for their wider fit.

Barefoot shoes with a membrane for adults

  • KILPI: An outdoor brand offering hiking shoes with a membrane, known for robust construction and good protection against water. 
  • XERO SHOES: Hiking models combine minimalist construction with effective protection against water. Our favourite is their lightweight trekking/running membrane footwear, ideal for trail running and light hiking.
  • RAYVE: This Czech brand offers city models with a membrane in a stylish design that works for the office and everyday wear. 
  • GROUNDIES: A German brand of stylish shoes for the city and the outdoors, offering several outdoor pieces equipped with a functional membrane.

Dry feet, whatever the weather decides to do

Barefoot shoes with a membrane are a great choice for all children and adults who want to keep their feet dry and warm, while still craving freedom of movement and ground contact 365 days a year.

The key is choosing a quality model from a reputable brand, picking suitable socks, and keeping up regular care with the right waterproofing product. Then your feet will be happy to head outdoors in any weather.

Where will your steps take you next?