Vivobarefoot Return Policy: 100-Day Trial Rules & Step-by-Step Guide
Buying minimalist shoes is exciting, but it often brings up tough questions. Barefoot footwear changes how your feet move. Because your feet need time to adapt, it is common to experience muscle soreness or sizing doubts after a few runs. When spending $150 or more on premium barefoot footwear, nobody wants to get stuck with an uncomfortable pair.
That is why understanding the Vivobarefoot return policy is essential before you head outdoors. Vivobarefoot features an industry-leading 100-Day Trial for new footwear. Unlike most shoe brands that force you to keep shoes indoors on clean carpets, Vivobarefoot lets you put real miles on their shoes outside on trails and pavement.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Vivobarefoot returns, including the 100-day trial rules, how pre-owned ReVivo purchases differ, return shipping fees, refund timelines, and simple steps to swap sizes.
Overview of the Vivobarefoot Return Policy
The Vivobarefoot return policy is built around testing natural movement without financial risk. If you buy new shoes directly from the brand, you have over three months to test them. If they do not work for your feet, you can return them for a refund.
Here is a quick look at how returns work across different purchase types:
| Policy Feature | Standard New Footwear | ReVivo (Restored Footwear) | Third-Party Retailers (REI, Amazon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Window | 100 Days from purchase/delivery | 28 Days from purchase | Follows retailer rules (e.g., REI 1-Year) |
| Condition Allowed | Worn outdoors, tested, dirty | Original condition as received | Varies by individual retailer policy |
| Return Method | Online digital returns portal | ReVivo online portal | Return directly to third-party seller |
| Refund Method | Original payment method | Original payment method | Handled by original merchant |
| Return Shipping | Free in UK; ~$6–$8 USD deducted in US | Customer pays or postage deducted | Follows store policy |
| Direct Exchanges? | No (Return and reorder) | No (Return and reorder) | Store-dependent |
START: Where did you buy?
│
┌────────────────────────┼────────────────────────┐
▼ ▼ ▼
Vivobarefoot.com ReVivo.com Third-Party (REI, etc.)
│ │ │
100-Day Window 28-Day Window Follow Retailer Rules
Worn outside: YES Original condition (Check store receipt)
│ │ │
▼ ▼ ▼
Start Online Portal Start ReVivo Portal Return direct to store
Return Window & Eligibility
The 100-Day Barefoot Trial
The core of the Vivobarefoot return policy is its 100-Day Trial. This applies to all new shoes, boots, and sandals purchased directly through the official Vivobarefoot website.
The return window starts on the date of purchase (or physical delivery, depending on your local region). During these 100 days, Vivobarefoot encourages you to live, run, walk, and hike in the shoes. If your feet fail to adjust or you simply dislike the feel, you are fully entitled to a full refund.
ReVivo Platform Orders
Vivobarefoot operates an official resale platform called ReVivo, where used shoes are reconditioned and resold. The return rules for ReVivo are completely different from standard new items:
- The return window drops down to 28 days.
- Shoes must remain in the same condition as received (only indoor trial fits are permitted).
- Worn-outside returns are not accepted for ReVivo products.
Third-Party & Independent Retailers
If you bought your Vivobarefoot shoes through an authorized dealer like REI, Amazon, or a local running shop, the Vivobarefoot brand cannot process your return. You must follow that specific seller's timeline and rules. If you are shopping around at other outdoor retailers, check out our guide to the Merrell return policy to compare how other outdoor shoe brands manage trial windows.
What Conditions Are Accepted?
- 100-Day Footwear: Regular outdoor wear and tear from running or walking is completely fine. Dirt on the outsole and minor scuffs from rocks will not void your return. However, intentional abuse, animal damage (such as dog chews), or homemade modifications (like cutting out straps or trimming uppers) are not covered.
- Socks, Insoles, and Accessories: Must remain unopened, unworn, and sealed in their original packaging.
- Packaging: Returning your shoes in their original box is preferred, but you will not be rejected if the box was thrown out. Simply pack them safely inside any sturdy cardboard shipping box.
How to Return Items to Vivobarefoot
Vivobarefoot processes almost all returns digitally. You do not need to call support or send unannounced parcels to their warehouse.
STEP-BY-STEP ONLINE RETURN
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ 1. Open Portal ──> Enter Order # and Email/Postal Code │
│ 2. Select Items ──> Pick shoes to return and select your reason │
│ 3. Get Label ──> Download prepaid shipping label or mobile QR code │
│ 4. Pack Secure ──> Box shoes and insert RMA packing slip │
│ 5. Carrier Drop ──> Hand off to UPS/USPS (US) or Royal Mail/Evri (UK) │
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
In-Store Returns
If you live near an official Vivobarefoot brand flagship store or experience hub, you can process an in-store return.
- Bring your shoes along with the original confirmation email or order invoice.
- Bring the physical payment card used during the transaction.
- Store staff will inspect the items, scan your digital receipt, and issue the refund directly back to your payment card.
Online Returns via the Portal
For standard online returns, follow these steps:
- Head to the official Vivobarefoot Returns Portal for your country.
- Enter your Order Number (found on your order confirmation, usually starting with
#VB) and your email address or billing postal code. - Select the items you wish to send back and pick a reason from the drop-down menu.
- Choose whether you want a standard refund or instant credit for a new purchase.
- Submit the request to generate your return packing slip and prepaid shipping label.
Mail-In Return Process & Carrier Drop-Off
Once your label is generated, prepare your parcel for transit:
- Place the footwear in its original shoe box or a suitable alternative container.
- Put the generated return authorization packing slip inside the box.
- Tape the box shut and securely attach the prepaid shipping label to the outside, covering any older shipping barcodes.
- Drop off the package with the assigned carrier:
- United States: Drop off at your nearest USPS, UPS, or designated partner drop-off point.
- United Kingdom: Hand the box over at a Royal Mail customer service point or Evri drop shop.
- EU, Canada, & Worldwide: Follow the designated local courier listed on your paperwork, or use trackable local post.
Return Label Troubleshooting
If the digital portal does not recognize your details, verify that you are on the correct regional storefront (e.g., US store vs. UK store). Make sure you type your order number exactly as shown in your confirmation email, including any country prefix letters. If the system still fails to generate a label, contact customer care to receive a printable PDF label via email.
Vivobarefoot Refund Policy & Processing Time
All refunds are issued directly to your original payment method. Depending on how you paid, funds return to your credit card, debit card, PayPal account, Klarna, Afterpay, or Apple Pay balance.
Refund Timeline Breakdown
The full return and processing time typically takes 7 to 14 business days from the day you hand the package to the carrier:
- Transit Time: 3 to 7 business days for the courier to deliver your parcel to the regional warehouse.
- Warehouse Intake & Inspection: 3 to 5 business days for staff to inspect the package and log the return into the system.
- Bank Clearance: 2 to 5 business days for your banking institution or card issuer to reflect the funds on your statement.
Why Refunds Might Be Delayed or Denied
Refunds are rarely refused under the 100-day trial, but delays or rejections can happen if:
- You sent back a ReVivo order well past the 28-day cutoff.
- You mailed an unauthorized return without creating an RMA slip in the online portal.
- You returned items purchased from a third-party seller like Amazon or REI to Vivobarefoot's warehouse.
- You returned opened hygiene items such as worn socks or opened foot-care balms.
Vivobarefoot Exchange Policy
Vivobarefoot does not offer direct, 1-to-1 mail-in product swaps. If your shoes feel half a size too small, the brand's exchange policy works through a return and reorder method:
- Use the online portal to start a return for your original pair to get a full refund.
- Place a brand-new order on the website immediately for the replacement size or color.
This system ensures you do not have to wait two weeks for your return parcel to travel to the warehouse before your new shoes ship. If you used a limited-time promo code or seasonal sale discount on your original order, reach out to customer service with your new and old order numbers. They can manually adjust the price so you do not lose your promotional savings.
If you are curious how other barefoot and zero-drop manufacturers handle sizing swaps, read our breakdown of the Xero Shoes return policy.
Non-Returnable and Restricted Items
While Vivobarefoot has one of the most generous footwear trial programs in the retail world, certain categories are classified as non-returnable items:
- Opened Socks and Underwear: Due to hygiene standards, socks cannot be returned once their retail packaging or hygienic seals are opened.
- Shoe Care Products: Leather balms, waterproofing sprays, and cleaning kits cannot be sent back once opened or used.
- Modified Insoles: Insoles that have been cut, trimmed, or altered to fit different shoes cannot be returned.
- Gift Cards & E-Vouchers: Digital and physical gift cards cannot be returned or redeemed for physical cash.
- Items Marked Final Sale: Rare warehouse clearance styles marked "Final Sale" on the product page and checkout screen cannot be returned or exchanged.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
Nobody likes surprise return fees. Vivobarefoot keeps its deduction rules straightforward:
- Restocking Fees: Vivobarefoot never charges a restocking fee.
- Return Shipping Fees:
- United Kingdom: Returns are completely free using standard carrier drop-offs.
- United States: A nominal shipping fee of roughly $6.00 to $8.00 USD is deducted from your final refund amount when using the portal's prepaid label.
- Canada, EU, and Australia: Fees vary by regional portal setup; costs are either deducted from the total refund or covered directly at the local post office.
- Rest of the World: Customers are responsible for paying tracked international shipping costs back to the warehouse.
- Defective Product Exceptions: If your shoes arrive with manufacturing defects, ripped seams, or the wrong size was sent by mistake, contact support. Vivobarefoot will waive all return shipping fees and issue a full 100% refund or replacement.
Holiday & Extended Return Policies
Minimalist shoes make popular holiday gifts, but gift recipients often need extra time to test their fit.
Under the Vivobarefoot holiday return policy, orders placed during the winter holiday shopping window (typically mid-November through late December) receive an extended timeline. Customers can take advantage of either the standard 100-Day Trial or an extended deadline running through January 31, whichever provides the longer return window.
Special Cases & Manufacturing Warranty
100-Day Trial vs. Manufacturing Defect Warranty
Do not confuse the 100-day trial with product warranty protection:
- The 100-Day Trial: Covers your personal comfort, fit, style choices, and foot adaptation. You can return the shoes for any personal reason.
- Manufacturing Warranty: If your shoes develop material flaws, such as sole delamination or ripped eyelets after the 100-day trial expires, you are covered by a 6-month to 1-year limited warranty (depending on regional consumer protection laws).
To file a warranty claim, take clear photos of the damaged area, gather your #VB order receipt, and contact their warranty team online. For comparison on how other minimalist sole brands handle structural warranties, see our Vibram return policy guide.
Price Adjustments
Vivobarefoot does not offer automatic retroactive price adjustments if an item you bought drops in price during a seasonal sale. However, because you have 100 days to return worn footwear, you can simply purchase the item at the discounted sale price and return your original pair within the trial window.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If you run into issues with your shipping label, have an international return inquiry, or need help with a gift, reach out to the customer support team:
-
Online Help Center: Submit a support ticket at
vivobarefoot.comvia their Help / Contact page. -
Direct Email:
support@vivobarefoot.com - Live Chat: Available directly on their regional websites during standard business hours.
- Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (GMT for global/UK shoppers; EST/PST for North American orders).
Tip for faster service: Always have your #VB order number and billing zip code typed out before opening a live chat session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return Vivobarefoot shoes if I have worn them outside?
Yes. Vivobarefoot explicitly allows and encourages you to wear new footwear outside on pavement, trails, or mud during your 100-day trial. If your feet do not adapt to the barefoot design, you can return them for a full refund within 100 days of purchase.
What is the return policy for ReVivo shoes?
Footwear purchased through ReVivo has a shorter 28-day return window. Unlike new shoes, ReVivo items must be returned in the original condition received and cannot be worn outside for trial testing.
How long does a Vivobarefoot refund take to process?
Once you drop your package off with the carrier, it takes 3 to 7 business days to reach the warehouse. Staff take 3 to 5 business days to inspect the parcel, and your bank takes 2 to 5 business days to post the money. Expect your refund method to complete within 7 to 14 business days total.
Can I exchange my Vivobarefoot shoes directly for a different size?
No. Vivobarefoot does not process direct size-for-size mail exchanges. You must return your original pair through their returns portal for a refund and place a separate new order on the website for the size you need.
Does Vivobarefoot offer free returns?
Returns are completely free in the United Kingdom. In the United States, a fee of approximately $6.00 to $8.00 is deducted from your refund to cover return postage. Return fees for other international countries vary based on local carriers.
How do I return Vivobarefoot shoes bought at REI or Amazon?
You cannot return items bought from third parties through the Vivobarefoot website. You must return the shoes directly to the store or website where you bought them (such as REI, Amazon, or Zappos) under their specific return terms.
Can I complete a Vivobarefoot return without a receipt or order number?
Vivobarefoot requires an order number to use the digital return portal. If you received the shoes as a gift, you will need to contact customer support with the buyer's full name, email address, or shipping address so an agent can locate the order details for you.
Can I return Vivobarefoot shoes without the original box?
Yes. While using the original shoebox is preferred, your return will not be rejected if you recycled it. Simply pack the shoes securely inside any clean, durable shipping box along with your printed return slip.
Does Vivobarefoot charge a restocking fee?
No. Vivobarefoot never charges restocking fees on any returned items.
What should I do if my return label does not generate?
First, verify that your order number matches your order confirmation email and that you are using the correct regional website portal. If the portal still shows an error, contact customer care via email or live chat to have a customer support agent send you a manual shipping label.
Summary
The Vivobarefoot return policy offers one of the best trial experiences in the footwear industry. Thanks to the signature 100-Day Trial, you can test new shoes in natural environments without worrying about losing your money if barefoot transition proves uncomfortable. Just remember that ReVivo purchases only have 28 days and must stay unworn, while third-party purchases must go back to the original retailer. Keep your order number handy, pack your shoes securely, and you will have no trouble getting your refund.
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by location. Always confirm details on the official Vivobarefoot website or with customer service. Information verified 2026.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Vivobarefoot return updates and explore our other barefoot shoe return guides before your next footwear purchase.
