The Materials in Our Barefoot Shoes: What You Wear on Your Feet

Making barefoot shoes is a bit different from making regular shoes. Because they’re extra flexible, have a thin sole, and are designed for all-day comfort, every detail matters—from the design and production to the materials and the hands that make them. At peerko, we also make sure to choose only sources that are kind to the environment and to the people who make your shoes.

Leather shoes

Natural leather is a time-proven material—and it simply feels great to wear. It helps create a comfortable “inside climate” in the shoe and adapts to your foot over time. For the best fit and softness, we mainly use high-quality cow leather.

Because leather is a natural material, it can have small variations in texture or appearance. We see that as part of its charm—those little differences make each pair look unique.

The leather we use comes from Europe and meets strict safety requirements. If you take good care of it, it will reward you with long-lasting comfort and a long life.

Vegan materials

Some people prefer vegan shoes—whether it’s for personal reasons, because they want easier care, or because they don’t like the natural “imperfections” that leather can have.

Today’s vegan materials are very advanced. They often look almost the same as leather, are nicely breathable, and are also very durable. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain.

In our vegan shoes, the lining is made from a soft microfiber material that’s built to handle everyday wear. It resists rubbing, sweat, and common substances your shoes may come into contact with. It’s also antibacterial, breathable, and helps move moisture away—so your feet feel fresh and comfortable throughout the day.

The vegan materials we use are certified according to Oeko-Tex® Standard 100, Class I. This international textile certification system guarantees that the tested materials do not contain harmful substances. Class I is the strictest category.

Soles

Our soles are made from durable thermoplastic and latex-based materials. We regularly have them tested at the Institute for Testing and Certification in Zlín to make sure they hold up well and last a long time when used as intended.

There’s more inside than you might think

A shoe isn’t just the outer material, the lining, and the sole. Inside, there are several hidden layers and small parts that help the shoe keep its shape, feel comfortable, and last longer.

And because barefoot shoes follow different rules than conventional footwear, every new model comes with its own story—and its own set of details we fine-tune to get the feel just right.