ADVERTORIAL
El Naturalista and the Power of Barefoot: Design, Well-being and Sustainability in Motion
The barefoot lifestyle is more than just a trend—it represents a cultural and physical shift, a movement towards reconnecting with our natural posture, gait, and the sensory experience of walking. In an age dominated by high-performance shoes and cushioned soles, barefoot footwear offers an invitation to return to simplicity: flat, flexible soles, anatomical freedom, and the ability to truly feel the ground beneath us.
A
t El Naturalista, this philosophy has become a driving force of innovation. With over four years of research and development, the brand has transformed barefoot footwear from a niche concept into a defining part of its identity. This isn’t simply about removing heel height—it’s about rethinking the entire relationship between foot, body and earth.
The newly launched SS26 barefoot collection is the latest expression of this journey. Designed to respect natural biomechanics while maintaining the refined craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility that characterises El Naturalista, siENte is a fusion of functionality and feeling. The name itself—meaning “feel” in Spanish—speaks to the essence of the barefoot philosophy: encouraging wearers to reconnect with their senses through movement. The collection includes a versatile range of sandals, shoes and loafers, made using premium materials such as nubuck leather, soft nappa and washed cotton. Each style features ultra- flexible soft rubber soles, a zero-drop base, and wide anatomical lasts that allow the toes to spread naturally. These elements support better posture, greater balance, and a more efficient, grounded way of walking.
But barefoot is more than just a set of technical features—it is a lifestyle choice. It appeals to those who value health, mindfulness, and sustainability. Its minimalist structure encourages a deeper awareness of the body and promotes intentional, slower movement. One customer in Europe remarked, “Barefoot shoes changed the way I walk. They’re not just comfortable—they make me feel more connected to myself.”
The impact of barefoot has been significant for El Naturalista as a brand. What began as an experimental capsule line has now evolved into a strategic category that influences everything
22 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • AUGUST 2025
from design to sourcing and production. The siENte project has opened up new creative possibilities for the design team, enabling them to merge traditional Spanish shoemaking with modern principles of biomechanics and ergonomic awareness.
The SS26 collection embraces this blend of heritage and innovation. Earthy tones like mauve, denim and khaki bring freshness and versatility, while simple lines and minimal stitching keep the aesthetic clean and functional. Elastic fastenings, removable insoles, and toxin-free finishes add practicality and comfort. True to El Naturalista’s values, the collection is produced with recycled materials, renewable resources, and environmentally responsible processes. Barefoot footwear is gaining traction in the UK market, not only among health-conscious individuals but also among professionals seeking smarter, more comfortable footwear for everyday life. El Naturalista stands apart in this category by offering shoes that deliver the biomechanical benefits of barefoot without compromising on style or brand identity. Wearing barefoot is ultimately about freedom—
freedom of movement, freedom of choice, and freedom to live in tune with the body’s natural rhythm. It offers an opportunity to walk more naturally, live more consciously, and move through the world with greater intention. With the launch of the SS26 siENte collection, El Naturalista invites UK consumers to explore this lifestyle, combining decades of shoemaking tradition with the evolving needs of modern, mindful living. Whether walking through city streets, travelling, or simply embracing a more grounded daily routine, barefoot shoes offer more than just comfort—they offer transformation.
Feel the ground. Feel better.
DOWNLOAD THE FOOTWEAR TODAY APP NOW SPONSORED BY
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
