First steps or Barefoot?

We make two lines: first-step boots and Barefoot shoes. Both are made by hand, on a wide-toe last, with a flexible sole. Below are the differences first, then what the two lines share.

Short answer

1. Cold weather, a child who has just started walking, outdoor use: the first-step boot. Lined with pony hair, closed at the ankle.
2. Mild weather and everyday use: Barefoot. Leather lining, width adjusted with two hook-and-loop straps.
3. If you are torn between them, look at the season: the difference is mostly in the lining and the closure.

Lining and season

First-step boots are fully lined with soft pony hair, which keeps the foot warm in winter.

In the Barefoot line the lining is leather. In mild weather the foot perspires less and the shoe is less bulky than a boot.

Insole

In both lines the insole is covered with leather.

In the Barefoot line the insole is flat and soft, with no raised pad inside it. First-step boots use an extra thick pad at the heel.

Closure

First-step boots have elastic panels at the sides and a zip on the inner side. The ankle stays covered and the boot does not slip off.

Barefoot shoes have two hook-and-loop straps on top. The width is adjustable, so the same size fits a wide or a narrow foot.

Upper

First-step boots have a suede leather upper, matte and soft to the touch.

In the Barefoot line the upper is smooth leather, with suede panels at the toe and the heel.

Size range

Our first-step models run from EU 21 to EU 30. In the Barefoot line the range differs by model; the sizes we make are listed on each model's own page.

In both lines the step between two neighbouring sizes is the same: about 7 mm.

What the two lines share

The wide-toe last, the flexible thermoplastic outsole, the leather insole, the handwork and the same care instructions.

Choosing a size works the same way too: measure from the heel to the longest toe, then add 1 to 1.5 cm of toe room to that length.

When each one is the wrong choice

1. Snow and cold ground: the leather lining of the Barefoot line is not made for winter; a first-step boot suits that weather better.
2. Hot weather: a boot lined with pony hair makes the foot perspire in the heat; Barefoot is the better choice.
3. Wet, slippery or sloping ground: neither line is suitable. Any shoe can slip on such surfaces; do not let your child walk there alone.

Still not sure?

Write to us with your child's age, the foot length you measured and the season the shoes are for, and we will look at it together.