Local shear failure is a kind of common mode of foundation failure; but the calculation method of bearing capacity under local shear failure mode is not sufficiently studied so far. Therefore a theoretical calculation method is proposed. Firstly

classification standard of shallow foundation failure modes is revised based on the extension position of slip surface under failure state. The shear strength of potential failure surface under local shear failure is partially worked out; subsequently the concept model of shear strength progressive work is introduced into the bearing capacity of foundation; and the calculation method of weightless foundation bearing capacity under local shear failure is also obtained using proper supposition. A comparison between some known empirical formulas and the present method is offered and the suitability of the present method is verified. The results provide theoretical references for the bearing capacity of the foundation under local shear failure mode.