Well then –
An eventful year is coming to an end. We, too, look back on intense and powerful months. With everything that has happened, we want to continue sharpening our edges toward the future and consistently pursue our path within the unique niche of self-producing barefoot shoe manufacturers. Our goal is to become even more firmly established in the premium segment. Because mass products are already more than abundant – also in the barefoot shoe sector. ;-)
What does that actually mean?
We want to further establish the premium footwear segment. What do we mean by premium?
Mass-produced goods are widely available – somewhere between thirty and two hundred euros. Then there is the very high-end bespoke shoe segment, starting at around 1,500 euros and depending on requirements going up to 5,000 euros or more. Here, up to a hundred hours of work go into a single pair, resulting in true works of art. There is also the luxury market – brands that are not necessarily superior in quality, but whose pricing is driven by name or exclusive collaborations. These typically range between 300 and 1,200 euros.
But what about the truly sensible, durable footwear segment in between? The range of around 400 to 600 euros for low shoes and 700 to 1,000 euros for tall boots? This segment is almost completely unoccupied – at least we don’t know anyone who approaches it the way we do.
And that is exactly where we want to grow further: barefoot shoes that are built better, that can be repaired at any time, and where resoling is a standard practice. Shoes that can achieve life cycles of 15 years or more. Shoes that are constructed differently, based on traditional shoemaking methods, and in which up to twenty hours of real handcraft are invested. Shoes that you can customize individually – from upper materials and colors to widths and special accessories.
That is what we define as true premium. And that is exactly the segment we will continue to expand.
What will change from 2026 onward?
In short: we will significantly increase our prices starting January 1st, 2026.
True craftsmanship – as we offer it – along with a high level of customization in the “custom” segment, requires appropriate appreciation. Over the past years, we have invested heavily in the individualization of products, for example in different width options for the Único and the barefoot sandals, or even different foot shapes and width systems, such as with the EXTREMIUM. This is cost-intensive, but necessary in order to offer you the most versatile product possible – after all, feet are very different ;-)
In addition, we are also subject to market conditions, and many cost areas have increased significantly in recent years: software, personnel, administration, logistics, machine maintenance, raw material procurement – and even general living costs, especially in the Freiburg region.
At the same time, further investments are ahead – especially in new machinery, modern software, and additional employees. Anyone running e-commerce today has to keep up. Operating an online shop has become highly complex, and in 2026 we will also be launching a major new shop system. There are many features we would like to offer you.
The challenge is not to overwhelm our community with too much “high-end modernity,” while still providing up-to-date functionality. The famous wolf in sheep’s clothing, so to speak – modern, but authentic. It simply has to fit who we are.
Conclusion
Anyone who wants such a special, durable, and highly individual “custom” barefoot shoe product from us will in the future have to appreciate this valuable premium handcrafted segment even more consciously. We are incredibly grateful for our loyal long-term customers and equally happy about every new person joining our small community. :-)
Until December 31st, 2025 at 24:00, you can still place orders at the old conditions.
We wish you all a happy New Year 2026!
