El Naturalista GEO sneaker: sustainable, soft, and made for long days
What I often hear in the shop? “I want a sneaker that’s comfortable, but not one of those plastic-y things.” Well, then you should try this El Naturalista GEO sneaker. Soft leather, a comfortable fit, and a light sole that provides pleasant cushioning. It’s the kind of sneaker you put on in the morning and don’t give a second thought to for the rest of the day. Exactly as it should be.
The combination of smooth leather and soft suede details gives the GEO a rugged, slightly retro look. No harsh shine or plastic feel, but natural materials that only gain more character the more you wear them.
Why you’ll love the GEO sneaker
- Made of soft calfskin with suede details
- Chrome-free and vegetable-tanned leather
- According to El Naturalista, made with 60% recycled components
- Lightweight sole made of rubber and recycled EVA
- Comfortable last for everyday use
- 360-degree stitched construction
- Removable insole
- Adjustable around the foot with laces
- Generally fits true to size
- Available in various colors
A leather sneaker without the stiffness
The GEO is a lifestyle sneaker for people who walk a lot, stand, and are always on the go. The leather feels supple and continues to mold to your foot as you wear it. Thanks to the laces, you can easily adjust the shoe to your instep and foot width.
The sole consists of a combination of 100% rubber and recycled EVA. EVA is a lightweight and cushioning material that helps absorb shocks while walking. This makes the sneaker feel comfortable during a long workday, an afternoon of shopping, or a brisk city walk.
The sole has a nice roll and is sturdy enough for daily use, yet remains lighter than you might expect from a leather sneaker. It’s not a sports shoe you’d accidentally run a marathon in, but it is a very fine sneaker for everything you have planned on an ordinary day.
How does the El Naturalista GEO sneaker fit?
The GEO generally fits true to size. Therefore, start by choosing your normal shoe size. The comfort last gives your foot a pleasant fit without feeling overly narrow.
The insole is removable. This is useful if you want to air it out, replace it, or use your own custom orthotics. Keep in mind that a custom insole sometimes takes up a bit more space. In that case, feel free to bring your orthotics to our shop so you can try on the shoes properly.
Soft leather can become slightly more supple during wear, but the length of the shoe naturally does not change. So, never buy leather shoes too small on purpose in the hope that your toes will find their way later.
What makes the GEO sneaker sustainable?
No new sneaker is without environmental impact. Neither is this one. However, El Naturalista has made several conscious material and construction choices for the GEO.
According to El Naturalista, the shoe consists of approximately 60% recycled components. In the sole, recycled EVA is combined with rubber. The upper is made of calfskin, and the sneaker is designed so that the different materials are easier to process at the end of their lifespan.
The leather is vegetable-tanned and chrome-free. This tanning method uses plant-based tannins instead of chromium salts. This doesn't mean that leather production has no impact, but it does prevent the use of chromium during the tanning process.
The shoe is stitched all around with a 360-degree construction. This gives the sneaker flexibility and ensures a sturdy connection between the upper and the sole. Combined with proper maintenance, this results in a shoe meant to be worn often and for a long time.
And let’s be honest: the most sustainable sneaker in your closet is usually the one you actually wear. There’s a good chance the GEO will become just that pair.
The GEO sneaker in various colors
We carry the El Naturalista GEO in several colors. From calm shades like mint, blue, land, and petrol to a striking multicolor version. The model remains the same, but every color gives the sneaker a completely different look.
The combination of petrol-colored leather and warm brown suede details is rugged and easy to combine. Wear it with jeans, corduroy trousers, or wide-leg pants. Even under a dress or skirt, the GEO provides a nice contrast between feminine and sporty.
The calmer colors match nicely with natural materials like wool, organic cotton, and linen. The multicolor version does all the work for you; your outfit just needs to look cheerful to match.
Is the GEO sneaker suitable for sports?
The GEO is made for daily use, walking, working, and living. It is not a technical running, fitness, or hiking shoe. It lacks the sport-specific support and construction for that.
For a day in the city, a walk to work, or a long day in the shop, it is very suitable. You get the look of a leather lifestyle sneaker with a light, cushioning sole.
How to care for leather and suede
Because the GEO consists of different types of leather, the smooth and suede parts each deserve their own care. First, gently remove loose dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth.
For the smooth leather, use a suitable leather cream or wax. Brush the suede details with a special suede or crepe brush. Never just use a greasy cream on suede, as it can darken the color and destroy the soft texture.
A suitable waterproofing spray helps protect the sneaker better against moisture and dirt. Always test any maintenance product on a small, inconspicuous area first. Always let wet shoes dry at room temperature and never place them against a radiator.
Frequently asked questions about the El Naturalista GEO sneaker
Are the GEO sneakers sustainable?
El Naturalista uses chrome-free, vegetable-tanned leather and a sole with recycled EVA for this model. According to the brand, the sneaker consists of approximately 60% recycled components. The solid construction and timeless design are also aimed at long-term use.
Can you remove the insole from the GEO sneaker?
Yes, the insole is removable. This is useful if you use your own orthotics or want to air out or replace the insole.
How do these sneakers fit?
The El Naturalista GEO generally fits true to size. Therefore, start by choosing your usual shoe size. If you are in doubt or wear your own orthotics, it is best to come in and try them on.
Is GEO a barefoot sneaker?
No. The GEO has a comfortable, cushioning sole and is not a barefoot or minimalist shoe. If you are looking for a wide toe box, zero drop, and a very flexible sole, take a look at the minimalist models from El Naturalista.
Are the sneakers suitable for daily use?
Yes. The GEO is designed as a comfortable lifestyle sneaker for daily walking, working, and strolling. It is not a technical sports or running shoe.
What materials is the GEO made of?
The upper consists of calfskin, with some colors featuring a combination of smooth nappa leather and suede. The removable insole is made of microfiber, and the outsole consists of rubber and recycled EVA.
Try on the El Naturalista GEO in Rotterdam
Want to compare different colors or feel how the fit and cushioning work for your feet? Feel free to visit Natur-el at Zwaanshals 376 in Rotterdam. You are welcome to bring your own orthotics if you want to use them in the sneakers.
We are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. During opening hours, you can also call us at 010-7954177 or email klantenservice@natur-el.nl. Our team is happy to help you with honest advice on size, color, and fit.
