Stack height refers to the amount of material—the “shoe”—between your foot and the ground. Barefoot shoes naturally have lower stack heights (usually no more than ~15mm) than conventional shoes for two key reasons:
1. A thinner sole increases flexibility, allowing your foot to move naturally.
2. Less material gives you a better feel for the ground, enhancing sensory feedback.
Stack height varies depending on the type of shoe. For example, a barefoot hiking shoe typically has a higher stack height than a barefoot training shoe—you need extra cushioning to help protect your feet from rocks and rough terrain. For comparison, a pair of Hoka's has at least 30mm stack height, if not more!
Finding your ideal stack height takes some trial and error. If you’re new to barefoot shoes, I recommend starting with a stack height of at least 10mm. This gives you some ground feel while reducing the initial discomfort of transitioning from cushioned footwear.
