FAQs

Barefoot shoes are minimalist shoes designed to replicate the natural feeling of walking barefoot while stillprotecting your feet from sharp objects, weather, and rough terrain. Unlikeconventional footwear, barefoot shoes eliminate heel elevation (zero-drop),offer a wide toe box, and utilize thin, flexible soles. These characteristicspromote natural foot biomechanics, allow full range of motion, and encouragethe activation of intrinsic foot muscles.

Naturcontact barefoot shoes follow these minimalist principles whileenhancing performance with features like Aramid Fibers Technology® for addedcut resistance and sole protection, breathable and vegan-friendly materials,and a design that respects your foot’s natural shape. This encourages betterposture, improved balance, and long-term foot health, making them ideal forwalking, hiking, working, and everyday wear.

Naturcontact shoes are built around the core values of natural movement, sustainable materials, and minimalist comfort, but we also go a step further by incorporating technological innovations, thoughtful aesthetic design, and season-specific features.
Key differences include:
• Aramid Fibers Technology® in the sole for exceptional protection without compromising flexibility
• A truly extra-wide toe box that doesn’t just accommodate wide feet, it encourages toe splay even during dynamic movement
• 100% vegan and eco-conscious construction, using materials like eco rubber, recycled polyester, and non-toxic adhesives
• Stylish, versatile designs that blend with both urban fashion and outdoor functionality
• Dedicated models for summer, winter, hiking, and casual wear, each optimized for comfort and durability

While many barefoot shoe brands offer minimalist performance, Naturcontact ensures that performance is matched by sustainability, comfort, and visual appeal across every model.

Yes. Naturcontact barefoot shoes are designed to be multi-functional and comfortable enough for all-day use, whether you're commuting through the city, hiking mountain trails, working on your feet, or walking long distances.

The flexible, zero-drop sole and lightweight design help reduce foot fatigue while still engaging your foot muscles, making them perfect for:

• Urban exploration and commuting
• Barefoot hiking and nature walks
• Traveling and long-distance walking
• Work environments that allow casual or minimalist footwear
• Everyday errands and activities

We also offer seasonal options: breathable summer barefoot shoes, insulated waterproof winter boots, and barefoot sandals, so you can enjoy the benefits of natural movement all year round, in any condition.

Naturcontact barefoot shoes are designed to be easy to maintain and long-lasting, but proper cleaning is essential to preserving their performance and appearance.

• Machine Washing: Most models (excluding those with vegan fur or thermal lining) can be machine washed at 30°C using a gentle or delicate cycle. Use a laundry bag to prevent abrasion and avoid harsh detergents or fabric softeners.
• Manual Cleaning: For best results, we recommend gently spot-cleaning the shoes with a damp cloth and avoiding any chemical cleaners that could damage the vegan materials. Brush off dry dirt with a soft-bristled shoe brush.
• Laces: Shoelaces are not suitable for machine washing as they may fray. We suggest hand-washing them separately with mild soap and water.
• Drying: Always air dry your shoes at room temperature. Do not tumble dry or place them near direct heat sources, as this can degrade the adhesives and materials.
• Care Products: For long-term maintenance, use our specially formulated Naturcontact cleaning kit, designed for the unique materials used in our shoes.
  

Yes. All Naturcontact shoes are made from 100% vegan and environmentally responsible materials. We are deeply committed to reducing our environmental footprint without compromising comfort, performance, or durability.
Materials used include:

• Eco rubber outsoles, made from sustainable sources and designed for long-lasting traction
• Recycled polyester uppers that are breathable and weather-resistant
• Vegan leather alternatives that are durable, stylish, and cruelty-free
• Non-toxic glues and dyes, safe for you and better for the planet

Each product page includes detailed material specifications so customers can make informed, ethical choices.

The end toggle is designed to open and close in order to remove laces and wash the shoes or replace the laces. It's quick and easy to remove it and put it back in place. Write us at info@naturcontact.com and we'll send an video to show you how to do it easily.

Naturcontact barefoot shoes are engineered to function without traditional orthotic support, encouraging your feet to rebuild natural strength, improve alignment, and restore natural arch function. However, we understand that some individuals may require temporary or transitional support.

• Yes, you can use low-profile or flexible orthotics inside most Naturcontact models, particularly during the early stages of transitioning from conventional shoes.
• Many customers with plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or overpronation begin by using thin insoles and gradually wean off as their foot strength improves.
• We do not recommend rigid arch supports or high-heeled inserts, as these conflict with the principles of natural foot movement.
  

Our shoes will not be structurally damaged from these environments. However, after exposing your Naturcontact barefoot shoes to saltwater or chlorinated water, rinse them thoroughly with fresh water to help prevent discoloration.

Shipping time is 2 business days if products are immediately available on our UK warehouse (for UK based customers) or Netherlands based warehouse (for EU customers), otherwise shipping time is 5-8 days for UK based customers, 6-9 days for EU based customers and 8-12 days for US based customers and processing time is same day to 3 days, based on products and period. The estimated delivery time is indicated in the shipping section at checkout.

For orders shipped within the European Union, no additional customs fees apply.
Also for non-EU countries (including the UK, USA, and Canada), customs fees and import duties are already paid by Naturcontact, so no customs or extra payments will be required and you will not be required to do anything else. Please be aware of scam sms by companies requesting for payment, in case of doubts write us at info@naturcontact.com or check the status of your order in the tracking section of our website.

We offer a 30-day return period for all purchases.

Here’s how our policy works:

• Free exchanges: If you need a different size or colour, we provide free exchange labels to make the process seamless.
• Free returns via gift card: If you decide to return your item for a store credit refund, your return is completely free, including prepaid return shipping.
• Returns for monetary refund: If you prefer a refund to your original payment method (e.g. credit card or PayPal), a small return handling fee may apply.

To qualify for a return or exchange, the shoes must be unworn, clean, and in their original packaging.

To start a return or exchange, please visit our return portal on the website or contact our customer service team with your order number and the reason for return. We’ll provide you with a prepaid return label and detailed instructions. Exchanges are processed as soon as the original item is in transit to our warehouse.

Naturcontact warranty entitles you to receive a free replacement or a similar model for the same or lower value in case of accidental damage or factory defect. To submit a claim write us at info@naturcontact.com and a member of the team will guide you through the process.

We pride ourselves on offering responsive and helpful support. Our customer service team replies to most messages within 24-48 hours on working days. Messages received during weekends or public holidays are answered on the next available business day. During peak seasons, response times may be longer due to high email volumes, but we're continuously expanding our team to improve efficiency and reduce wait times.

Once an order isplaced, it enters our processing system quickly to ensure fast dispatch. If youneed to modify or cancel your order, please contact us immediately afterplacing it. If the order has already shipped, cancellations are not possible,but you can use our return process once the shoes arrive.

Please make sure Capital letters will be correctly applied when required and please be aware that discount codes are not cumulative. If a discount code still doesn't work it means it has expired. For further questions contact us at info@naturcontact.com and we'll further assist you.

We take quality control seriously, but if you receive a damaged, defective, or incorrect item, please contact our support team immediately. Provide your order number and photos of the product received. We’ll offer a replacement at no extra cost or a full refund, depending on your preference.

Conventional shoes with elevated heels, rigid soles, and narrow toe boxes can weaken foot muscles, restrict natural motion, and contribute to issues like bunions, plantar fasciitis, and poor posture. In contrast, barefoot shoes allow your feet to move as nature intended, improving:

• Foot muscle strength and mobility
• Toe alignment and splay
• Posture and spinal alignment
• Balance and sensory awareness (proprioception)

By reconnecting your feet to the ground, barefoot shoes support the body’s natural biomechanics and promote long-term foot health and comfort.

Yes. Naturcontact barefoot shoes are ideal for individuals suffering from foot-related conditions. Our shoes provide:

• A wide toe box that reduces pressure on bunions and allows toes to splay
• A zero-drop sole that encourages a neutral stance and relieves tension from the plantar fascia
• Soft, flexible materials that don’t compress or restrict the natural shape of the foot
• Improved muscle activation, which can help correct underlying structural weaknesses over time

However, for those with medical concerns, we recommend consulting with a podiatrist before beginning the transition to barefoot footwear.

Yes, transitioning is safe, but it should be done gradually. Switching to barefoot shoes activates muscles that may have been underused due to stiff soles, elevated heels, and tight toe boxes.
Here’s how to transition safely:

• Start with short walks or wearing barefoot shoes for a few hours a day
• Gradually increase duration as your foot strength and flexibility improve
• Expect some muscle soreness or fatigue during the first few weeks—it’s a natural part of adaptation
• Listen to your body and give yourself time to adjust

Over time, many people report reduced pain, better posture, and a stronger connection to the ground beneath them.