El Naturalista unisex chelsea boot made of chrome-free leather, tough, supple, and surprisingly comfortable
Sometimes you buy shoes because they look good. And sometimes, those shoes turn out to be so comfortable that you immediately want to take them home in another color. This is exactly that kind of pair. This unisex chelsea boot from El Naturalista has that cool, understated look that you can combine endlessly, while also offering the comfort that I personally love so much. Not a stiff, hard boot that you have to “break in” first, but a shoe that feels supple and truly moves with you.
The boot is made of chrome-free tanned calf leather and has a nice, slightly wider fit. This makes it feel comfortable on the foot without looking clunky. That is exactly what I think is so great about it. It has that nonchalant, robust look of a good chelsea boot, but in a version that feels softer, friendlier, and more natural than many comparable models. Available in five beautiful colors: terra, blush, mustard, stone, and denim.
Highlights
This El Naturalista chelsea boot is made of chrome-free tanned leather, features elastic panels, handy pull tabs, and a supple rubber sole. The model is unisex and available in sizes 37 to 44. The look is tough and timeless, while the comfort feels remarkably soft and free. This is the kind of shoe you wear with jeans, but just as easily combine with a dress or slightly smarter trousers.
Why you really want these boots
What I often hear from customers is that they like the idea of barefoot or semi-barefoot shoes, but are absolutely not interested in a model that immediately looks "healthy." I totally get that. Not everyone wants a shoe that looks primarily practical. This boot is so great precisely because it looks like a normal, beautiful chelsea boot, while still offering much more freedom of movement and comfort than many traditional boots.
That wider footbed really makes a difference. Your toes get more room, which simply feels better when walking. The sole is flexible, the heel is flat, and the shoe feels light. Not like you are walking on a thick, rigid brick, but rather like your feet are allowed to do what they want. That is exactly why some people are so enthusiastic about them. One customer even wrote that these were the best shoes she had ever bought because they fit perfectly, were extremely comfortable, and finally looked like a normal shoe instead of a typical barefoot shoe. Honestly? I understand that perfectly.
Fit and feel
These boots have a comfortable fit and are very pleasant for feet that like a bit of space due to the wider footbed. Thanks to the elastic sides and sturdy loops, you can pull them on and off easily. No zippers, no laces, no fuss. Just step in and you're ready to go. That also makes this a shoe you’ll reach for quickly on busy mornings.
The fit feels free, but the shoe still looks nicely snug around the ankle. This ensures it remains tough and slim enough in appearance. Semi-barefoot, that is: more space and more natural walking comfort, but without feeling extreme. This is precisely why it is a very accessible model for many people.
How to wear them
Wear them with straight jeans with rolled-up cuffs for a nonchalant, tough look. Or combine them with a dress or skirt, so the leather and sturdy sole provide a nice contrast to something soft or flowy. Also very nice: with woolen trousers or slightly smarter slacks with a chunky sweater on top. These are those shoes that are understated enough to go with everything, yet add character to your outfit.
Material and extra information
The outer material is calf leather, which is chrome-free tanned. That’s a nice thought, as no chromium salts are used, unlike in much conventionally tanned leather. The lining consists of 80% leather and 20% microfiber. The insole is removable and made of microfiber. The outsole is 100% rubber and provides good grip. The closure is elastic, and the production process uses 360º stitching, which contributes to the strength and durability of the shoe.
What does this pair do for the world? By choosing chrome-free tanned leather and a well-made model, you are choosing shoes that are produced more kindly and are built to last. And in the end, that is always the most sustainable choice: buying something you actually keep wearing.
Care
Leather stays at its best when you treat it with a little attention. Brush off dirt when dry and occasionally use a natural leather wax or nourishing cream to keep the leather supple. Especially with a shoe you wear often, this helps tremendously to keep the material looking good. Let wet shoes dry slowly at room temperature, and preferably do not place them against a radiator. This keeps the leather looking good for longer and prevents it from drying out.
Do you want extra warmth and comfort? Then combine these boots with a good pair of wool socks from, for example, Hirsch Natur. Truly a golden combination for cold days.
Don't buy if…
…you are looking for a very narrow, tight-fitting boot without extra room at the toes. This boot is specifically intended for more comfortable and natural walking. If you like more freedom of movement and a more supple sole, then you are in the right place. If you are looking for a very hard, classic chelsea boot with a narrow fashion fit, then this is probably not your model.
Personal advice
Are you unsure about the size, or would you like to know if this model is right for your feet? Call us during opening hours on 010-7954177 or email klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Our "happiness makers" are ready to help you think things through.
Come try them on in Rotterdam
Did you know we have a large store in the Oude Noorden of Rotterdam? You can view, feel, and of course try on the entire collection there. You are more than welcome at Zwaanshals 376 in Rotterdam. We are open from Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 17:30. And believe me: this is truly a shoe you need to feel on your feet to be sold.
FAQ
Is this El Naturalista chelsea boot really barefoot?
This boot is semi-barefoot. That means it provides more room and flexibility than many regular shoes, but feels more accessible than a very extreme barefoot model.
Are these chelsea boots suitable for women and men?
Yes, this model is unisex and available in sizes 37 to 44. Its timeless design makes it look beautiful with all kinds of styles and feet.
What material are these boots made of?
The exterior is chrome-free tanned calf leather. The lining consists of 80% leather and 20% microfiber. The sole is 100% rubber.
Are the insoles removable?
Yes, the insoles are removable. This is useful if you want a little extra room or prefer to use your own orthotic insoles.
How do these El Naturalista chelsea boots fit?
They have a more comfortable, slightly wider footbed than many regular chelsea boots. This makes them very pleasant for those who like a bit more room at the front of the foot.
