Frequently Asked Questions
Bahé makes performance-ready barefoot shoes designed for real-world transition, combining foot-shaped zero-drop design, optional cushioning choices, and testable grounding technology, built to help you move naturally and reconnect with nature.
Find answers to your common questions. If you can find what you need, please contact us with the link below.
Delivery
Delivery times vary by location. All delivery times below are estimates and based on the time the order was dispatched from our warehouse (usually the same day for orders before 12pm UK time)
UK - 2 working days
USA - 5-7 working days
EU - 2-3 working days
International orders (outside the regions listed above) - 5-21 business days, depending on location.
Yes. Once your order ships you will receive a tracking link via email so you can follow the delivery.
Orders are shipped from our fulfilment centres depending on your region.
UK, USA and orders outside the EU are normally dispatched from our UK warehouse. UK orders are sent via Royal Mail 48-hour service. International orders are sent via Royal Mail International Signed For, which typically takes 5–7 (USA) or 5-21 (Rest of world) working days. Once your order reaches the destination country, it is handed over to the local postal service, such as USPS or Canada Post.
EU orders are dispatched from our dedicated warehouse in the Netherlands via UPS. EU delivery typically takes 2-3 business days. For orders shipped within the EU from this warehouse, there are no additional customs or import duties.
We have fulfilment centres in both the UK and the European Union, meaning deliveries within those regions will incur no import duty or taxes.
We also cover duty and taxes on deliveries to the USA.
All deliveries outside of the UK, EU and USA are shipped from our UK fulfilment centre and may be subject to import duty and taxes.
Returns
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused (with exception of our shoes, which can be worn indoors to try on for fit), with any tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
Customers are responsible for the cost of the return shipping. For some regions, we offer pre-paid return labels, the cost of which will be deducted from your refund.
Note: For orders outside of the U.K, EU and USA, we are unable to refund any duty charges or taxes that you may have paid to the courier or customs authorities.
Please find our full returns policy here.
If you'd like to make a return, please use our - returns portal.
Please check our Returns Policy page for the latest information on return eligibility and costs.
You can initiate a return using our returns portal.
Sizing
Do not guess based on your usual shoe size. Foot-shaped footwear can fit differently to traditional narrow shoes. Measure your foot and use our detailed size guide to choose the best match and reduce returns.
If you're between sizes, most of our shoes have a modular fit where you can remove the insole for extra space or add an extra more for a more snug feel.
Check our detailed size guide here.
Because sizing varies between brands, ordering your usual size isn’t always reliable. We recommend using our size guide to choose your size and reduce returns. Our shoes are designed with a natural foot shape and a wider toe box, so they may feel roomier than conventional footwear as well as some other brands within this category.
Our barefoot-style shoes can feel slightly larger than some other brands in this category.
Bahé shoes are designed with a natural foot shape and a wider toe box, so it can feel roomier at the front than conventional footwear. Fit should feel roomy at the toes and secure at the heel.
Fit varies across barefoot brands too. Bahé sits on the wider, higher-volume end of the spectrum. Our size guide shows shoe widths, and our modular fit lets you fine-tune volume if you need more space or a snugger feel.
Most styles let you remove the insole for extra room, or add an extra insole for a closer fit.
Check our detailed size guide here.
Sizing can vary between brands, so we recommend using our printable size guide rather than relying on your usual size.
Check our detailed size guide here.
Your Bahé size may be similar to other barefoot shoe brands, but sizing and shape can still vary. We recommend using our printable size guide to choose your best fit.
Most models have a modular fit system. You can:
- Remove the insole for more space and more ground feel
- Add an extra insole for a snugger fit and a bit more underfoot comfort
This gives roughly 6 mm of fit range in one shoe.
If you are transitioning to zero drop, optional 4mm heel lifts can also help soften the change for your calves and Achilles.
Bahé shoes are designed to feel comfortable across the top of the foot. We use a well-padded tongue and a shape that avoids common pressure points, so this is not something most customers experience.
If you do notice any pressure, it is usually an easy lace adjustment rather than a sizing issue. Try this:
- Loosen the laces slightly across the midfoot
- Skip an eyelet over the sensitive spot
- Re-centre the tongue so pressure is spread more evenly
- Remove the insole for a little extra room
- Add an extra insole for a snugger hold without tightening the laces
Bahé sits on the higher-volume end of the fit spectrum, with a foot-shaped toe box and generous internal space. If you need more room or a snugger fit, our modular fit makes it easy to adjust volume. Most styles let you remove the insole for extra space, or add an extra insole to reduce volume and increase hold.
If you're finding the shoes slightly too big or small, a quick fix is to try them without the insole for a little extra space or to add an extra one for a more snug fit.
If you decide you would like to return your shoes, you can always return them in accordance with our return policy. Please check our Returns Policy page for the latest information on return eligibility and costs.
If you'd like to make a return, please use our - returns portal.
Product Questions
Foot-shaped means the shoe is designed to match the natural shape of your foot, especially at the toes, so your toes have room to spread instead of being pushed inward by a tapered toe box.
Zero drop means the sole is flat from heel to toe, with no raised heel, so your foot is not tipped forward. This supports a more natural stance and helps your feet do more of the stabilising work again, especially if you are used to elevated, cushioned shoes.
Our shoes have a removable insole so it is easy to slip an orthotic in.
The grounding technology is in the front of our shoes, so if you have a half length orthotic you'll remain grounded when on the grounded surfaces. If you have a full length orthotic, we recommend wrapping conductive tape around the front of your orthotic to maintain the electrical pathway.
Below are the total stack heights of all of our models (including removable insole). If the model you are looking for is not listed below, please check the 'Details' tab of the product page.
Rewild/Revive Flex - 10mm
Rewild/Revive Adapt - 14mm
Rewild/Revive Endurance - 22mm
Rediscover Boots - 18mm
Respire Sandals - 10mm
Yes. Models such as Revive use breathable materials designed for everyday wear and warmer conditions. Waterproof models such as Rewild and Rediscover may feel slightly warmer, but they are still designed to remain breathable.
Revive is designed as a versatile everyday grounding shoe, with lightweight, breathable materials. Rewild is built more for outdoor use, especially in wetter conditions, with waterproof protection and a more rugged upper for trails. Both are grounding shoes with the same barefoot fit.
Foot-shaped means the shoe is designed to match the natural shape of your foot, especially at the toes, so your toes have room to spread instead of being pushed inward by a tapered toe box.
Zero drop means the sole is flat from heel to toe, with no raised heel, so your foot is not tipped forward. This supports a more natural stance and helps your feet do more of the stabilising work again, especially if you are used to elevated, cushioned shoes.
Yes. Bahé is designed as real-world performance footwear, built to work for gym, trail, and daily movement, with a clean, understated look so you will actually wear them consistently.
That everyday performance idea matters because the benefits of foot-first footwear compound through consistency. Shoes that only get worn sometimes rarely change anything.
It depends on the model. Some Bahé shoes are waterproof or water resistant, and many include durable, splash-resistant panels designed to help keep you comfortable in changeable conditions. For the most accurate info, check the product page for the model you are considering.
Across the range, durability is a non-negotiable. Foot-first does not mean fragile. We design for traction, durability, and comfort without compromising on better foot function.
Bahé shoes are designed for real-world traction, with tread patterns built for versatile grip during dynamic movement across everyday and natural surfaces. Grip still depends on the tread pattern and the surface you are moving on, since wet conditions can vary a lot. For the most accurate details, check the product page for each model, where you can see the tread pattern and lug depth.
Durability depends on various factors with surfaces, and movement patterns the biggest variables, but we design Bahé for real-world longevity. We prioritise higher-wear resistant outsoles, resilient foam components, durable uppers, and quality linings and internal structure so performance holds up over time.
Bahé Modes
Modes are Bahé’s three distinct underfoot sole cushioning levels, Flex, Adapt, and Endurance, where available. They let you choose the balance of ground feel and cushioning that suits your feet, your training, and the surfaces you spend time on, while also supporting a gradual transition if you are new to foot-shaped, zero-drop shoes.
A simple way to choose:
- Endurance: most cushioning and impact comfort. A strong pick for longer days on hard surfaces, higher training volume, or if your feet want more support right now.
- Adapt: the balanced option. A good everyday choice if you want some ground feel with a bit more underfoot comfort for mixed use.
- Flex: most minimal and most ground feel. Best if you already enjoy minimal shoes, want maximum sensory feedback, or your feet are well-conditioned for less cushioning.
If you are unsure, choose the Mode that feels comfortable enough to wear consistently for your normal week. If you are new to barefoot-style footwear, it often makes sense to start with more cushioning and move toward more ground feel as your feet adapt.
Learn more and check out our shoe finder quiz here to discover the right Mode for you.
Think of ground feel as a dial:
- Flex feels the most barefoot-style: maximum ground feel, most flexible, least cushioned.
- Adapt feels balanced: good ground feel with more underfoot comfort for day-to-day training and mixed use.
- Endurance feels the most forgiving: more cushioning underfoot, with slightly less flexibility than Flex and Adapt. This can be useful for longer sessions, harder surfaces, or if you are newer to foot-shaped, zero-drop footwear.
Modes are not a purity ladder. Many people start in Endurance and move toward Flex over time, but plenty stay in Endurance for certain activities and surfaces.
Learn more and check out our shoe finder quiz here to discover the right Mode for you.
If you are new to foot-shaped, zero-drop shoes, we recommend a gradual transition, and that matters most the more minimal you go.
A simple starting ladder:
- Start with Endurance if you want the most underfoot cushioning and comfort, especially for long days on hard surfaces.
- Move to Adapt when you want more ground feel with a still-forgiving ride for everyday training and mixed use.
- Try Flex once your feet feel ready for the most ground feedback and the least cushioning.
Two important nuances:
- If you want more ground feedback for technique (for example, in strength work or drills where you want to feel the floor), Flex can be a good choice, even early on, as long as you ease in and listen to your feet.
- If your goal is to run in barefoot-style shoes sooner, Endurance or Adapt are usually better starting points than Flex, because the extra cushioning can make the transition more manageable while your feet and calves adapt.
Learn more and check out our shoe finder quiz here to discover the right Mode for you.
Product Care
What you’ll need to clean your shoes:
- Mild detergent or clothing-safe soap
- A soft scrubbing brush or toothbrush
- A sponge
- Paper towels
- A bucket of warm water
How to clean your Bahé footwear:
- You’ll want to wash the different parts of your shoes separately, so start off by taking out your shoelaces.
- Fill a bucket or bowl with warm water and add 15-30ml of mild detergent or mix a little bit of the soap in the water
- With a dry brush, clean off any clinging mud, dirt or debris before you get your shoes wet.
- Use a soft scrub brush or toothbrush dipped in warm, soapy water and gently clean the outsoles (bottoms of the shoes) by hand. Rinse with a wet sponge.
- The next job is to clean the uppers of your shoes. The upper can be cleaned using a wet, soapy sponge and rub gently. Our materials can handle hand-washing, but do not submerge your shoes in water.
- You can clean your shoelaces using soap and a scrub brush under running water.
Once all of the parts of your shoes have been cleaned, let them air dry with paper towels stuffed inside. This will help absorb moisture and maintain the shape of your shoes as they dry. (Just take care not to dry them near a radiator or in direct sunlight, which can cause damage).
Note: Our insoles contain conductive elements such as metallic yarn and conductive glue, so we suggest you avoid cleaning them unless absolutely necessary.
If you do, use a clean, slightly damp cloth without detergent and gently wipe away any dirt or debris. Don’t soak the insoles or you risk damaging the foam and its shape.
We do not recommend machine washing our shoes as this may affect the conductivity of the shoes and disrupt the grounding technology.
We do not recommend machine washing our shoes as this may affect the conductivity of the shoes and disrupt the grounding technology.
Our boots are designed to be waterproof, incorporating a breathable PU membrane between the upper and lining for long-lasting performance, making them the perfect companion for your adventures, no matter where they lead.
To keep the fabric looking its best and protected from the elements, we recommend applying a waterproofing treatment from time to time. This little bit of care will ensure your boots remain both stylish and ready for whatever your journey brings!
Here are the care instructions for our socks:
- Machine wash at 30°C
- Tumble dry low heat
- Do not bleach
- Do not iron
- Do not dry clean
Grounding
Grounding shoes are footwear designed to let your body make electrical contact with the earth while you are wearing them. They do this by creating a conductive connection from your foot to the ground, but only when you are standing on a grounded surface.
Bahé grounding shoes use our Ground Flow System — a conductive pathway from foot to ground. On grounded surfaces, this creates electrical contact with the earth through the shoe. For a deeper explanation, see - What Are Grounding Shoes.
The most reliable way to test grounding is with a continuity meter or multimeter under the right conditions. Body voltage tests can also be useful, but they are influenced by the surface and surrounding environment, so they are not as direct as a continuity test of the shoe itself. See - How To Test Grounding Shoes.
In most cases, wearing regular socks will not prevent you being grounded.
As you move, your feet will perspire and this perspiration will allow for a connection to be made between your foot and the in-soles via your socks.
We’ve tested different types of socks and we recommend thinner socks to allow for a connection to be made more quickly, but thicker socks should work fine.
Grounding is still an ever growing area of research. Studies have explored grounding and reported interesting findings in areas such as inflammation-related markers, recovery, blood flow and sleep. More research is needed, and we do not present this as a guaranteed outcome from wearing our shoes. Read more in - Grounding Research.
Yes, the surface matters. Grounding shoes only work when you are on a grounded surface that can conduct electricity.
In general:
- Natural surfaces like wet grass, soil, sand, and unsealed stone are more likely to be conductive.
- Many indoor floors and modern building materials are not reliably grounded.
- Some concrete can be conductive, but it depends on factors like moisture, sealants, and what is underneath it.
If you want certainty, the best approach is to test your shoes on the specific surface using a continuity or multimeter.
Yes. Being barefoot on a grounded natural surface is the simplest way to ground. Bahé grounding shoes are designed to be an extension of barefoot grounding, not a replacement, so you can stay connected even when you need the protection and performance of a shoe.
There is nothing inherently dangerous about wearing conductive shoes. Humans have been barefoot or worn leather-soled shoes, which can be conductive under some circumstances, for many years. However, electrically conductive footwear should not be used if there is an obvious risk of shock from any nearby electrical apparatus or electrically live parts.
Sustainability And Longevity
Our aim is to reduce impact where we can while still delivering performance. Many materials we use are plant-based or include recycled content, and we publish the material details on all of our product pages. We continue to review and improve materials and construction as options evolve and always prioritise more sustainable options where possible.
The most sustainable shoe is the one you wear for longer. A few small habits can significantly extend lifespan:
- Let them dry fully between wears. Rotating pairs and drying properly reduces premature wear. Wet shoes tend to break down faster.
- Air dry only. If they get soaked, rinse off grit, stuff with paper to hold shape, and let them dry at room temperature. Avoid radiators, tumble dryers, or direct high heat.
- Keep them clean, especially after wet or gritty sessions. Dirt and grit increase abrasion. Brush off dry dirt first, then wipe with a damp cloth.
- Choose socks that are gentler on linings. Cotton socks are typically less abrasive on internal linings than rougher synthetic knits.
- Refresh the parts that wear first. We sell spare laces and replacement insoles for most models, which is a simple way to keep your shoes feeling fresh without replacing the whole pair.
- Get the fit right. A secure heel and the right volume reduces internal rubbing, which helps shoes last longer. Our spare insoles are a great tool for this.
Switching To Barefoot Shoes
Transition gradually so your feet, calves, and Achilles can adapt.
A simple approach:
- Start with short, easy wear sessions, then build up over weeks.
- Rotate with your usual shoes for longer days or higher intensity.
- If you are choosing Bahé Modes, most beginners do best starting with more cushioning and moving toward more ground feel as they adapt. Endurance, then Adapt, then Flex.
- The more minimal you go, the more important pacing becomes.
If you want the full plan, see our transition guide.
In most shoes, a raised heel and more cushioning reduce how much your calves and Achilles have to lengthen and work. With zero drop and more ground feel, your lower legs often load differently, so previously underused tissues have to do more. That can feel like soreness while you adapt, especially if you change too much too quickly.
The fix is usually not “push through”. It is pacing, sensible volume, and gradually building tolerance.
Most people can use zero drop footwear, but it is smart to be more cautious if you have a current or recent lower-limb injury, you are rehabbing something like the Achilles, calf, or plantar fascia, or you have a history of recurring tendon issues.
Some people actually choose rehab as a good time to switch because they are already paying attention to load and technique. The key is to make changes gradually and, if you are unsure, get advice from a qualified clinician.
You should also be cautious if you are increasing training volume, changing running surfaces, or switching to more minimal footwear at the same time, since stacking changes can increase soreness and setbacks.
If you have sharp pain, worsening pain, or symptoms that do not settle, pause and seek professional guidance before progressing.
Yes. Using a heel lift or extra insole can reduce the size of the change while you adapt. Bahé offers modular insoles and optional 4mm heel lifts for people who want to soften the switch to zero drop, especially in the calves and Achilles.
A simple way to use them:
- Start with the setup that feels comfortable and lets you stay consistent.
- Gradually reduce the help over time as your tolerance builds, rather than switching everything at once.
It is common to feel mild muscle soreness at first, especially in calves and feet, if you are new to zero drop or more ground feel. Reduce volume if you get sharp or worsening pain, or symptoms that do not settle with rest. The more minimal the shoe and the more running you do, the more gradual your progression should be.
For more guidance, see our transition guide.
Pre-order Model
Some products may be available for pre-order. If this is the case for the product you wish to purchase, the delivery timeline will be displayed on the product page, and you will be emailed with updates on your pre-order.
There are two main situations in which our products are available for pre-order:
- New launches
When launching a new style, our priority is to get them on your feet as quickly as possible. By initially selling our products on a pre-order basis, this gives you the chance to guarantee that we can provide you with the size and colour you want as soon as they are ready. - Incoming stock
When we have products that are in production or in transit to us, we will sometimes make these available for pre-order. This means that as soon as they arrive to us, they’ll be sent out to you, and you will avoid the risk of missing out if the products sell out.
All consumer rights remain. Orders can be cancelled for a full refund at any point prior to delivery, and can be returned within 30 days of delivery in line with our returns policy.
If you have any questions about the pre-order process, need advice on sizing, or anything else, please email us at reconnect@bahe.co
Digital Gift Cards
Gift cards are issued in GBP (£). If you shop in another currency, your card will be charged in your local currency at checkout using the live exchange rate. The gift card you receive will show a GBP (£) balance, and you can redeem it in any currency on our site — it will convert automatically at checkout.
Digital gift cards can currently only be gifted to customers in the UK. Any gift cards purchased for non-UK customers will be unredeemable.
If you buy a gift card for someone, you will receive the order confirmation email. Whoever you list as the recipient during purchasing will receive an email with the gift card details.
You will not be able to use a promotion or a discount to purchase an e-gift card. You will be able to use your e-gift card to purchase styles on promotion.
It is possible to use several gift cards on one order.
Gift cards expire one year after their purchase date.
If you return a product purchased using a gift card, the same gift card will be refunded. If you purchased using a gift card and other methods of payment, then each payment method will be refunded accordingly.
To check the balance of your gift card, email reconnect@bahe.co and we will let you know the balance.
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