Semi-barefoot shoes: what exactly are they?
(And why we at Natur-el are so enthusiastic about El Naturalista)
Written by Sara Haidar, our favorite intern
Perhaps you have come across the term "barefoot shoes" before.
But did you know that there is also such a thing as semi-barefoot shoes?
When we at Natur-el first came into contact with the CHELSEA shoes from El Naturalista, we were immediately curious. Because these shoes fall exactly into that category: semi-barefoot. But what does that actually mean?
And why do so many people find it such a pleasant way to walk?
First, a question
Think about the shoes you wear the most (or test it with the shoes you are wearing RIGHT NOW..)
Do your toes really have room in them?
Or are they pressed against each other? Many shoes are quite narrow towards the front. While our feet are not actually made for that at all. Our toes are meant to move, spread, and maintain balance while walking. And that is exactly what semi-barefoot shoes address.
What are semi-barefoot shoes?
Semi-barefoot shoes are designed to let your feet move more naturally, but without being extremely minimalist. They actually fall right between traditional shoes and fully barefoot shoes.
You can see this in a few key features:
- a wide toe box so your toes can spread naturally
- a flexible sole that moves with your foot
- a zero-drop sole, which means your heel is not higher than your forefoot
- but with slightly more sole and comfort than fully barefoot shoes
In other words: your feet get more freedom of movement, but you still have a bit of protection and cushioning.
What is the difference from fully barefoot?
Fully barefoot shoes are usually designed to be as minimalist as possible. They often have a very thin sole and almost no cushioning. The goal is to mimic the feeling of walking barefoot as closely as possible. Semi-barefoot shoes are slightly more accessible.
They still offer the main benefits of barefoot shoes, such as:
- a natural foot position
- room for your toes
- a flexible sole
But with just a bit more comfort and protection. For many people, our El Naturalista chelsea boots feel like a pleasant middle ground.
Why many people try semi-barefoot from El Naturalista
In many traditional shoes, the sole and construction take over a large part of the work from your feet. Because of this, we use some small muscles in our feet and lower legs less. Semi-barefoot shoes give your feet more freedom to move on their own again.
Many people therefore notice, for example:
- more stability while walking
- a more natural walking pattern
- that their feet work more actively
And perhaps most importantly: it often feels a lot freer than traditional shoes.
How we at Natur-el found El Naturalista
At Natur-el, we are always looking for brands that are not only beautiful but also have a good story.
That is how we ended up with El Naturalista. And do you know what struck us immediately? This Spanish brand was already working on natural and comfortable footwear long before barefoot shoes became popular.
El Naturalista was founded in 1998 and combines traditional craftsmanship with sustainable materials, such as ecologically tanned leather (chrome-free!) and natural rubber soles.
But what appeals to us perhaps the most is that their shoes are designed with respect for the natural shape of the foot. And they are also quite beautiful (we think so, anyway ;-))
Comfort and style
What we also often hear: many barefoot shoes look quite sporty, or just plain ugly (sorry not sorry). Handy for hiking, but not necessarily what you want to wear every day. The shoes from El Naturalista combine that natural walking experience with a stylish design.
Many models look like a classic boot or shoe. Sometimes it even looks like there is a small heel underneath. But appearances can be deceiving. Because the shoes are simply zero-drop and let your feet move naturally. Win-win, right?
Perhaps the most important question
Could semi-barefoot walking be for you? That obviously varies from person to person. Some people are enthusiastic right away, others need some time to get used to it. But what we often hear from customers who try on these shoes is that their feet finally get more room to move.
And that feels surprisingly pleasant for many people.
Curious?
At Natur-el, we have a selection of semi-barefoot models from El Naturalista in the store and online. SEE THEM HERE!
Are you curious about how they walk?
Or do you just want to see them up close?
You are always welcome to come and try them on. No time to try them on, or do you live too far away? El Naturalista actually fits very true to size, so it is best to choose your own size. And who knows, you might discover that your feet have wanted a little more space all this time.
Do you already have experience with our semi-barefoot shoes? We are very curious about your opinion, so please let us know below!
