A Guide to Barefoot Shoes for Children

A Guide to Barefoot Shoes for Children

"Feels like walking barefoot but with the stability children need." 

Barefoot shoes have in recent years become a popular choice for many parents who want to support their child’s natural foot development. The shoes are designed to mimic the feeling of walking barefoot and allow the foot to move freely and naturally. This contributes to a healthy foot position and a more natural gait.

In this guide, we share our knowledge about barefoot shoes – what characterizes them, the benefits they can have for your child’s feet, how to choose the right pair, and how to best care for them in everyday use.

What characterizes a bisgaard barefoot shoe?

  • Natural foot-shaped design
    The shoe follows the natural shape of the foot, allowing the toes to spread and move freely. This supports both balance and comfort.

  • Wide toe box
    Extra space in the front of the shoe allows the toes to move naturally and supports healthy foot movement.

  • Zero-drop sole
    Heel and forefoot are at the same level, which promotes a more natural posture and walking pattern.

  • Thin and flexible outsole
    The lightweight and flexible sole allows the child to feel the ground and move more naturally, while still protecting the foot.

  • Stable heel cap – a unique bisgaard feature
    While many barefoot shoes are very soft, our shoes feature include a stable heel cap that helps keep the foot correctly positioned and provides stability.

  • Last developed based on bisgaards heritage
    The shape of the shoe is based on one of the first lasts developed in bisgaards history, combining our experience with modern barefoot principles.

  • Natural rubber outsole
    The outsole is made from natural rubber, providing durability, flexibility, and good grip for everyday play and movement.


Why choose barefoot shoes?

Barefoot shoes allow feet to grow and develop more naturally without unnecessary restrictions, which can help strengthen both muscles and joints. The close contact with the ground also helps the child develop balance, stability, and better body awareness. When the foot is allowed to move freely and naturally, it may also help reduce the risk of misalignment and other foot-related issues.


When choosing shoes for your child

Barefoot shoes are not necessarily the right choice for all children in every situation. Choosing shoes largely depends on preferences, needs, and what the child is used to. Some children thrive best in shoes with maximum freedom of movement, while others may need more support or a different type of fit.

At bisgaard, we develop both barefoot shoes and more classic shoes, as different feet and everyday needs require different solutions. The most important thing is that the shoe fits your child’s foot well and provides the right comfort and support in everyday life.


Recommended barefoot shoes from bisgaard

At bisgaard, you will find a wide selection of barefoot shoes developed for different needs and seasons – always with a focus on the child’s natural movement and comfort.

  • barefoot carter – a lightweight and flexible everyday shoe that provides great freedom of movement and comfort for active days.

  • barefoot elroy – a durable model suitable for outdoor play, where durability and stability are important.

  • barefoot dex – a stylish barefoot shoe that combines functionality with a classic and timeless look.


How to care for barefoot shoes

To ensure that barefoot shoes last longer and maintain their appearance, proper care is important:

  • Cleaning
    Remove dirt with a wrung-out cloth. Avoid soaking the shoes, as this may damage the material. You can use our shoe cleaner, which effectively removes dirt and stains.

  • Waterproofing
    Before first use and after cleaning, we recommend waterproofing the shoes to protect them from dirt and moisture. We offer an effective waterproofing spray that is easy to use.

  • Leather care
    For leather shoes, it can be beneficial to use a leather lotion to maintain the softness and natural appearance of the leather.