8 benefits of the GORAL x Rose Anvil barefoot shoes
Since launching the Barefoot SMUGS, we've received a few questions asking why barefoot shoes and what the real benefits are. To give you the best answer, we spoke to a podiatrist about the key advantages of walking in barefoot shoes (and of course, we added a little insight about our premium leathers to keep it on brand). Here’s what we learned:
1. Natural Foot Movement
Barefoot shoes are designed to let your feet move naturally, offering a closer connection to the ground. This helps strengthen foot muscles, improve balance, and promote better posture, as your feet can flex, stretch, and bend just like they would when walking barefoot.
2. Improved Sensory Feedback
Barefoot shoes allow you to feel the ground more directly, providing enhanced sensory feedback. This can improve proprioception (awareness of your body in space), which leads to better coordination and agility over time.
3. Promotes Healthier Foot Alignment
Unlike traditional shoes that may restrict toe splay or alter your walking mechanics, barefoot shoes let your toes spread naturally. This supports proper alignment of the feet, ankles, and legs, helping to prevent issues like bunions, hammertoes, and other foot deformities.
4. Increased Comfort
Designed for flexibility, barefoot shoes offer a more comfortable experience. With minimal cushioning, they allow your feet to feel more grounded and natural in their movements, providing a sense of freedom that traditional shoes can’t match.
5. Durability and Quality (with Horween Chromexcel Leather)
Our Barefoot SMUGS are made with Horween Chromexcel leather, known for its exceptional durability and longevity. Chromexcel is a premium leather tanned using a special blend of oils, waxes, and vegetable tannins, making it not only soft and supple but also highly resistant to wear and tear. Over time, it develops a rich patina, making these shoes a long-lasting investment that only gets better with age.
6. Breathability
Thanks to Horween Chromexcel’s unique tanning process, the leather is naturally breathable, allowing air circulation and moisture regulation. This helps reduce foot odour and keeps your feet comfortable over long periods of wear. Additionally, we’ve used a felt filler (in place of traditional cork) to further enhance breathability and keep the shoes light.
7. Minimalistic Design
The minimalist design of the Barefoot SMUGS gives them a sleek, timeless look that won’t go out of style. These shoes are not just a trend; they’re built to last and guarantee a lifetime of wear.
8. Eco-Friendly Choice
The production process for Chromexcel leather is more environmentally conscious than many mass-produced leathers. Horween has been crafting leather for over a century, using methods that prioritize quality and sustainability.
The soles are made of pure natural rubber, another sustainable material that’s hard-wearing. With our resoleable construction, you can count on your Barefoot SMUGS to last for years to come.
Shop the Barefoot SMUGS now and see for yourself why so many are making the switch.
You can see how the world's nicest barefoot sneakers are made here: