Balenciaga’s ‘Barefoot Zero’ shoes slammed for ‘terrible’ design

If we’ve learned anything from Crocs and Teva sandals, it’s that not all shoes are going to be attractive. No matter how popular they are.

For full transparency, I own a pair of Crocs and wear them in public with zero F given. But sometimes “fashion” happens in a very extreme way and really shouldn’t turn into a trend.

Especially when those influential Gen Zs are involved!

Balenciaga’s barefoot shoe… just no.

In the later months of 2024, high-end designer Balenciaga shared the latest footwear range for Fall 2025 – a shoe that makes you look like you’re walking barefoot.

The “Zero” shoe as it is called, boasts a small heel insert and a flat heel toe.

It takes the barefoot trend to a whole new level. And yes, there are probably some benefits to going barefoot. But that’s not exactly it, and I’m not a podiatrist, so…

The fashion item that is making waves on the internet

The retail price of the new footwear range has not yet been confirmed, but it is said to be available for pre-order from selected locations of the French design house.

Regardless of availability, they sure have had a lot of people talking about them online.

One fashion Redditor took to the online platform to ask, “Has anyone seen the new Balenciaga Barefoot Zero?”

While not many answered the question, many had strong opinions they wanted to share about the shared images.

“Terrible, prevents slippage, ring formation,” one person commented.

“I had not seen them until now. I wish I could go back to a time when I never saw them,” cried another.

And another follower quipped: “The place is someone got a 3D printer and just started making random stuff.”

“They look so stupid,” put another simply, while the general vibe was that people would rather just go barefoot.

Who will actually buy them?

Regardless of what is said about them online, my prediction is that a famous influencer will wear these, Gen Z will froth over it, and another weird trend will be born in the fashion world (that I personally may or may not follow regardless of how i feel now!)

The first person to hit the “go” button? The popular vote is for one name in particular.

“Bianca Censori will love these,” someone wrote of Kanye West’s fashionable wife.

Others predicted that anyone rich will make these a “thing”.

“Balenciaga is an elaborate joke on rich people. I’m okay with it. Take that letter, Balenciaga. Take the bastards for all they’re worth.”

will you Can you?