El Naturalista unisex chelsea boot made of chrome-free leather, tough, supple, and surprisingly comfortable
Some shoes you put on because they are beautiful. And then some shoes turn out to be so comfortable to walk in that you’d rather take them home in another color right away. This is exactly that kind of pair. This unisex chelsea boot from El Naturalista has that tough, understated look that you can combine endlessly with anything, while also offering the comfort that always makes me very happy. No 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 find so strong about it. It has that casual, 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, has an elastic entry, handy pull tabs, and a supple rubber sole. The model is unisex and available in sizes 37 through 44. The look is tough and timeless, while the wearing comfort feels remarkably soft and free. This is the kind of shoe you put on with jeans, but just as easily combine with a dress or a smarter pair of trousers.
Why you’ll 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 looks "healthy" at first glance. I totally get that. Not everyone wants a shoe that primarily looks practical. This boot is so great because it looks like a normal, beautiful chelsea boot, yet offers much more freedom of movement and comfort than many traditional boots.
That wider footbed really makes a difference. Your toes get more room, and that just feels better to walk in. The sole is supple, the heel is flat, and the shoe feels light. Not as if you are walking on a thick, stiff brick, but as if your feet are allowed to do what they want. That is also exactly why some people are so enthusiastic about these. 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 completely.
Fit and feel
These boots have a comfortable fit and, thanks to the wider footbed, are very pleasant for feet that like to have some space. Thanks to the elastic sides and sturdy pull tabs, you can put them on and take them off easily. No zippers, no laces, no hassle. Just step in and you’re ready to go. That makes this the kind of shoe you quickly reach for on busy mornings.
The fit feels free, but the shoe still looks nicely fitted around the ankle. As a result, it maintains a tough yet slim appearance. Semi-barefoot, then: more room 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 casual, tough look. Or combine them with a dress or skirt, so that the leather and the sturdy sole provide a nice contrast with something soft or flowy. Also very nice: with wool 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 additional information
The outer material is calf leather, which is chrome-free tanned. That’s a nice thought, because it means no chromium salts are used as in many conventionally tanned leathers. The lining consists of 80% leather and 20% microfiber. The insole is removable and made of microfiber. The outsole is made of 100% rubber and provides good grip. The closure is elastic, and the production process uses 360º stitching, which contributes to the sturdiness 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 that you will truly keep wearing.
Maintenance
Leather stays looking best if 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 enormously to keep the material looking good. Let wet shoes dry slowly at room temperature and preferably don’t place them against a heater. That way the leather stays nice for longer and you prevent it from drying out.
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.
Do not buy if…
…you are looking for a very narrow, tight-fitting boot without extra room at the toes. This boot is intended specifically for more comfortable and natural walking. If you like more freedom of movement and a more supple sole, then this is the right choice for you. If you are looking for a very hard, classic chelsea boot with a narrow fashion fit, then this is probably less 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 at 010-7954177 or email klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Our "joy-makers" are ready to help you think it through.
Come try them on in Rotterdam
Did you know that we have a large store in the Oude Noorden of Rotterdam? There you can see, feel, and of course try on the entire collection. You are more than welcome at Zwaanshals 376 in Rotterdam. We are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:30. And believe me: this is truly the kind of 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 ordinary 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 through 44. Thanks to the timeless design, it looks beautiful with all kinds of styles and feet.
What material are these boots made of?
The exterior is made of chrome-free tanned calf leather. The lining consists of 80% leather and 20% microfiber. The sole is made of 100% rubber.
Are the insoles removable?
Yes, the insoles are removable. That is useful if you want just a little extra space or prefer to walk with your own custom insole.
How do these El Naturalista chelsea boots fit?
They have a more comfortable, slightly wider footbed than many ordinary chelsea boots. This makes them very pleasant for those who like having a bit more room at the front of the foot.
