Last Updated - Less than a week ago

Where To Buy Barefoot Shoes In

South Africa

Local is better. A curated list of every barefoot shoes maker and retailer based in
South Africa
We've put together an exhaustive list of barefoot shoe brands, makers and retailers based in
South Africa
. So if you're looking for better shipping rates, easier returns or physical stores in
South Africa
to try on barefoot shoes, you're in the right place ♥️. Before ordering, be sure to read through our comprehensive buyers guide below ✌️
Handcrafted Grounding Footwear - comfortable barefootshoes that are good for planet, body and sole
Handcrafted Grounding Footwear - comfortable barefootshoes that are good for planet, body and sole
South Africa

Our Story

In December 2020, Earth Sole's journey began. It all started when my friend Sarah handed me repurposed leather. I had recently watched the documentary "Kiss The Ground," and found myself drawn to the concept of "grounding." Holding the leather in my hand, I thought about how special it would be to create my own shoes, allowing me to stay in contact with the healthy energy of Mother Nature.

Throughout the following year, I continued being surprised by the interest my shoes got when I wore them myself. Despite having no experience in either leather or shoemaking, and recognizing the numerous benefits of the shoes, the idea of starting of making them for others too…

Fast forward to May 2022, I had moved back to Cape Town, and started looking for repurposed leather and for people to help me with the intricate 2-hour process of crafting a pair. I started measuring many people's feet, on both markets and parties and I continuously improved the designs made, again, by fitting them on people’s feet.

I started creating a small team, with locals that would work from home, in their own time and at their own pace. Although we do have a small studio in Cape Town, our ladies still work in their own space.

Today, we celebrate our journey toward crafting comfortable, high-quality footwear that inspires a healthier life. Thank you for joining our journey, which started with a single pair of shoes and has now touched the feet and hearts of people worldwide.

Warm regards,

Anouk Anansi - Founder of Earth Sole

Benefits

Healthy: Our shoes maintain the natural contours of your feet, and through the leather soles, acupuncture points below your feet get activated which energizes your body.

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Comfortable: Our soft leather molds to the unique shape of your feet.

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Grounding: Leather soles keep you connected to the Earth's energy.

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Light & Pliable: Perfect for any adventure, our shoes are light and flexible.

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Sustainable: Top and back sections are crafted from leather offcuts, reducing environmental impact.

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Durable: Leather's natural strength ensures long-lasting quality.

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Authentic: Handmade with care, each pair tells its own story.

Maker
Maker
Earth Sole
Handcrafted Grounding Footwear - comfortable barefootshoes that are good for planet, body and sole
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Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
South Africa

Jim Green originates from a well-known fly fishing area within the rolling hills of the Midlands Meander, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Along the river edges in the area lives a sneaky little frog, known to locals as a “Jim Green”. This frog happens to be a sort after snack for awaiting fish.

The frog is not only used by questionable fisherman to hook a winning catch but is also the hero that dons each one of our boots

OUR HISTORY

Jim Green Footwear was born out of humble beginnings, in a back-yard garage in 1992, with the idea in mind of making a boot that lasts and lasts. It wasn’t long before Jim Green had gained a reputation amongst local communities, living up to its’ name of being tough, rugged, and able to go the distance, eventually becoming a household name across South Africa.

OUR FACTORY

Jim Green is not only hand crafted in South Africa, but all components are also locally sourced. With an ever-climbing unemployment rate it is important to us to support our local people and economy. Our factory is run in an ethical manner and we pride ourselves on bringing you the best value for money footwear, while at the same time living up to our name. Situated in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, Jim Green boots have been made the same way since day one.

JIM GREEN TODAY

Jim Green is still one of South Africa’s favorite adventure and workwear footwear brands, being worn by large and small corporations and remains a local favorite amongst the farming and hiking communities. We have a heritage of making durable comfortable footwear that is famous for its never say die attitude and respected by many. No other boot is more versatile, from mountain tops to factory floors, Jim Green boots are ready for any challenge.

Maker
Maker
Jim Green
Embrace Nature with the African Ranger Barefoot Boot
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Handmade athletic and leisure sandals.
Handmade athletic and leisure sandals.
South Africa

t-rocket sandals are developed on the toughest trails. While used by sports people they are also excellent for leisure use allowing natural movement.

Maker
Maker
T-Rockets
Handmade athletic and leisure sandals.
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Buyer's Guide for Barefoot Shoes in

South Africa

Finding barefoot shoe makers and retailers that are based in
South Africa
is worth the effort and comes with many benefits:
- Free/low cost shipping.
- Free/low cost returns.
- Try out barefoot shoes in-store before buying.
- Support your local makers and businesses.

Shipping barefoot shoes from outside

South Africa

If it makes sense for you to purchase from a barefoot brand/retailer outside
South Africa
, remember that taxes and duties may not be included in the advertised price. The cost of shipping is often calculated by factors such as weight, size, distance, quantity, and speed of delivery. There are usually online calculators to help you figure out shipping & import fees.

Measure your feet accurately! Specifically for barefoot shoes

Okay, let's talk sizing. Every barefoot shoe brand designs their shoes to a fit different foot shapes, volumes and sizes. Your normal shoe size for traditional footwear may not be the same when it comes to barefoot shoes. There are a few things you can do to ensure that you're picking the right size.

Firstly, make sure you measure your foot accurately and identify your foot type to get a better idea of what kind of shoes will suit you best. Then make sure that you read the brands sizing guide carefully! Remember to double check the units of measurement as they can be different in each country 😅

Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect fit is to go and try them on in-store if that's possible.

Conclusion

Barefoot shoes, also known as minimalist shoes, mimic the feeling of walking or running barefoot while still providing protection and support to your feet. They're awesome because they can improve your posture, increase your foot strength, and reduce your risk of injury.

Have some tips you'd like to share, leave them in the comments below!

Buyer’s Guide to Barefoot Shoes in South Africa

Exploring the world of barefoot shoes within South Africa is not just beneficial for your foot health but also supports local artisans and businesses. Here are the perks of sourcing barefoot shoes locally:

  • Economical Shipping: Take advantage of free or low-cost shipping options.
  • Hassle-Free Returns: Enjoy straightforward returns without extra charges.
  • Try Before You Buy: The benefit of trying shoes in-store ensures the perfect fit.
  • Support Local: Contribute to the local economy and craftsmanship.

International Purchases: Things to Consider

Should you find yourself eyeing a pair from an international brand, keep in mind:

  • Taxes and Duties: Additional costs not shown in the retail price may apply. Use online calculators to estimate shipping and import fees accurately.

Sizing: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Navigating the sizing landscape of barefoot shoes is crucial due to varying designs for different foot shapes and sizes:

  1. Accurate Measurements: Begin by measuring your foot accurately to understand your foot type and find a suitable shoe.
  2. Consult Sizing Guides: Read each brand’s sizing guide thoroughly—be mindful of varying units of measurement.
  3. In-Store Experience: If possible, trying on shoes in-store is the most effective way to ensure a perfect fit.

Seasonal Recommendations for South Africa

South Africa’s climate demands versatile footwear solutions:

  • Summer: Opt for shoes with breathable materials like mesh to keep your feet cool and comfortable during hot months.
  • Winter: Seek out models with insulation for colder days and waterproof features for rainy conditions.
  • All Seasons: Durability and adaptability are key. Shoes that offer a balance of breathability and protection are ideal for South Africa’s varied climate.

Care and Maintenance Tips for South Africa

Proper shoe care extends the life and effectiveness of your barefoot shoes:

  • Cleaning: Clean shoes regularly to remove dirt and prevent wear. Most can be cleaned with soap and water; always refer to the care instructions.
  • Drying: Avoid direct heat when drying shoes. Allow them to air-dry and consider stuffing them with newspaper to absorb moisture quicker.
  • Waterproofing: Apply a suitable waterproofing treatment to protect against South Africa’s rainy weather.
  • Storage: Store shoes in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Maintain their shape with a shoe tree or paper stuffing.

Import and Customs Guide Specific to South Africa

Navigating the import and customs process for barefoot shoes in South Africa can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can streamline the experience:

  • Understand the Basics: Import taxes and duties are calculated based on the value of the goods (CIF), which includes the cost of the product, insurance, and freight charges.
  • Use Duty Calculators: Online duty calculators specific to South Africa can help estimate the costs involved. Be prepared for VAT (Value Added Tax) and possible customs duties based on the product’s classification.
  • Keep Documents Handy: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including purchase receipts and shipping information, to facilitate the customs process.
  • Consider Using a Customs Broker: For a smoother experience, especially for higher-value items, consider employing the services of a customs broker. They can handle the paperwork and clear your goods through customs.
  • Check for Prohibitions and Restrictions: Certain goods may be subject to import restrictions or prohibitions. Verify that there are no specific restrictions on importing footwear into South Africa.
  • Be Prepared for Delays: Customs processing times can vary, so factor in potential delays when ordering internationally.

Following these tips can help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your new barefoot shoes arrive without a hitch.

Conclusion

Embracing barefoot shoes introduces you to a lifestyle of natural foot movement and health benefits such as improved posture and increased foot strength, while also offering protection. These shoes are a valuable investment in your well-being.

FAQ

There are several retailers and online stores in South Africa that stock a wide range of barefoot shoes suitable for various activities. Local sports stores, specialty footwear shops, and online marketplaces are great places to start. Brands like Vivobarefoot and Merrell are increasingly available in South African stores. Additionally, consider exploring local South African brands that are embracing the minimalist footwear movement.

Yes, the minimalist footwear movement is gaining traction in South Africa, and there are emerging local brands dedicated to producing barefoot shoes. While the market is still growing, these brands often focus on sustainable practices and locally sourced materials. Keep an eye on local outdoor and sports forums and social media groups for the latest recommendations and launches from South African barefoot shoe brands.

Transitioning to barefoot shoes involves gradually increasing the time spent wearing them to allow your feet and body to adapt. Start by wearing your new barefoot shoes for short periods each day, gradually increasing as you become more comfortable. Consider incorporating foot-strengthening exercises and paying attention to your walking and running form. South Africa's diverse terrain offers a unique opportunity to slowly adapt by walking on different surfaces.

Barefoot shoes are versatile and suitable for a wide range of activities, from urban exploration to trail running. South Africa's varied landscapes make it an ideal place to maximize the use of barefoot shoes. However, it's important to choose the right type of barefoot shoe for your specific activity—be it hiking in the Drakensberg, running on the beach, or casual wear in urban settings.

When importing barefoot shoes into South Africa, be aware of additional costs like VAT, customs duties, and possibly courier handling fees. Use an online duty calculator to estimate these costs beforehand. Purchasing from reputable international brands or retailers that are familiar with shipping to South Africa can also streamline the process. Always keep track of your shipment and have the necessary documentation ready for customs clearance.

Wearing barefoot shoes can help promote healthy foot mechanics and muscle development, which may lead to changes in foot shape and appearance over time. However, these changes are often positive and result in stronger, more functional feet. It is important to gradually transition into barefoot shoes and choose a style that provides adequate support and protection for your individual needs.

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