Whether you are at home, exploring or facing the elements this autumn and winter, everyday adventures call for reliable, sturdy and sustainable footwear. When it comes to protection from the wind, rain and snow, the SMALL-FOLK children’s footwear selection has been chosen with healthy foot development, sustainable materials and long-lasting comfort in mind. Brands such as VivoBarefoot, Camper and Bobux are leaders when it comes to understanding the best quality materials, hard-wearing construction methods and playful touches (whilst also working hard to reduce their environmental impact) alongside others that suit individual needs and stages of life.
To help you in updating boots, trainers and wellies, we’ve chosen our favourite picks for autumn/winter 2021 so your kids and young ones can get the most out of the season.
Everyday Adventures
Splashing in puddles, weekend walks and imagining new worlds - tough jobs that require tough footwear. Our hardwearing picks for the outdoors.
Peu Ankle Boots (Camper)
Designed for ‘real action’, Camper children’s shoes utilise natural materials to provide resilient finishes. Inspired by walking barefoot, the Peu Ankle Boots are simple and functional with a ‘Strobel’ construction technique that creates an inner sock-like fit, commonly used in athletic shoes, so you know it’s going to be comfortable. Not only a cosy, classic style but also one that highlights the brand’s commitment to manufacturing standards, the nubuck Peu model is made from leather certified by the Leather Working Group that ensures the best practises for tanners, manufacturers and retailers.
Marvel Arctic XP Cruise (Bobux)
As one of the best shoes for kids to learn to walk in, the Marvel Arctic XP Cruiser from New Zealand based Bobux boasts an ultra-flexible, durable sole and a suede toe cap, meaning this shoe stands up to the challenge of baby’s first steps. We really like the easy and quick velcro adjuster and a nice touch is knowing that the upper is made from super soft vintage leather, which will only get better with age and wear.
Tahoe Arctic Midnight (Bobux)
Another favourite from Bobux, the Tahoe Arctic Midnight suits chilly climates with an understated look that reminds us of classic wellington boots. Lined with merino wool (which naturally regulates body temperature - keeping you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot) this boot features Bobux’s own SPLASHTEX® technology which provides an internal waterproof membrane that ensures feet are kept warm and dry. Additional lambskin around the ankle provides further support and comfort.
Rainy Days
What good is a puddle if it can’t be jumped in? Waterproof picks that stand up to downpours.
Rubber Wellington Boots (MIKK-LINE)
A good ol’ wellington boot is just what is needed for days when it seems like the rain won’t ever stop. Showcasing much-loved contemporary Danish styling, the selection of colours in the MIKK-LINE line of rubber welly boots means there is something for everyone whilst barefoot-friendly comfort features within each. Mixed with calcium carbonate, the rubber blend used for MIKK-LINE wellington boots has increased mechanical properties (including its tear strength) making their longevity one of the best features.
Lumi Kids (VivoBarefoot)
Presenting a vegan winter footwear option that is waterproof, ultra-toasty, grippy and flexible - the VivoBarefoot Lumi Kids model reminds us of a moonboot, only with more practical features and sustainable qualities. The upper is made from a special synthetic material made from recycled RPET and the toggle cord adjuster around the top entry allows the fit to be drawn in or relaxed to suit (whilst also shielding the ankle from wind chill and water). Reflective decoration on the outer panel adds a safety element for darker mornings and evenings.
Primus Bootie II (VivoBarefoot)
Designed specifically with winter wear in mind, VivoBarefoot have introduced their updated all-weather boot model, the Primus Bootie II, to be strong, protective and most importantly water resistant. Boasting a modern, streamline look with signature VivoBarefoot branding, the flexible sole is puncture-resistant and fit for different terrains and inside the Outlast thermal insole has been chosen to last through the seasons. A bonded mudguard perimeter provides further protection at a key stress point and after-life has also been considered; meaning the removal and repair of the sole is now easier.
At Home
For cold evenings and slow mornings, when staying in is the best idea. Cosy slipper picks to keep you warm.
1. Kapi Lined Boot - Squirrel (Donsje Amsterdam)
For those taking their first steps in style, boots don’t get much cuter than the Kapi squirrel shoes (or the mouse option, if you’d prefer). Fairtrade and handmade, the wide entry point allows for ease of wear and will easily fit different foot shapes whilst the integrated ears, eyes, nose and whiskers are sure to encourage little ones to wear them. The outers are made from premium quality leather and inside a super soft lining ensures softness against delicate skin.
2. Boot Slipper (Egos)
Known for their ‘slippers with soul’ Egos founders Gry and Christian have worked within felt production in Nepal since 2000, so they know a thing or two about creating the best natural wool footwear designs. Made from natural materials by human hands using eco-friendly methods, the Egos Boot Slipper makes for the perfect indoor shoe with a double sole of felt and an outer sole of suede that together will mould and shape to individual feet over time.
3. Natural Wool Slippers (Camper)
Constructed with a recycled rubber outsole, the Camper’s Natural Wool Slippers have a playful look with an overlay contrasting yellow panels and a practical hook and loop closure system made from leather. Helping to reduce scrap waste and reduce the brand’s carbon footprint emissions, 20% of the outsole is made from recycled rubber, noticeable through its speckled, multicoloured finish that adds further character to the overall look, complete with a grip-focused tread to ensure suitability for wear on carpet, tiles and smooth flooring.
If you would like any assistance with sizing or making your decisions, please get in contact with us - we'll be happy to help!
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