Footwear Is Evolving: Barefoot Moves Beyond a Niche to Become the Most Sought-After Style
The shift towards foot-friendly footwear is gaining ground among brands such as Conguitos, which will present its latest products at the Barefoot European Shoe Fair, Europe’s leading meeting point for companies specialising in this type of footwear.
The footwear industry is undergoing one of its most significant transformations, driven by the growing popularity of barefoot shoes. This segment, focused on supporting the natural development of the foot and promoting better posture, has evolved from a niche trend into one of the industry’s most dynamic growth drivers, expanding rapidly year after year.
In response to changing consumer habits, Conguitos is expanding its range of foot-friendly footwear through its Break & Walk brand, aimed at a younger audience and available in sizes 33 to 41. The brand also continues to cater for younger children through Tecnobaby by Conguitos, a collection designed to protect their feet and provide stability during their first steps.
The group has incorporated the benefits of barefoot design into its latest collections, combining comfort with the essential features of this type of footwear: a wide toe box, a flat and flexible sole, and an exceptionally lightweight construction.
An International Showcase
To support this growth and connect the leading brands specialising in barefoot footwear, Messe Offenbach in Germany will host the second edition of the Barefoot European Shoe Fair from 24 to 26 July 2026.
It is the only trade fair in Europe dedicated exclusively to this type of footwear, providing Conguitos with an opportunity to showcase its products to industry professionals from more than 40 countries.
The event will bring together between 80 and 100 exhibitors and has been strategically designed to maximise brand visibility. During the first two days, 24 and 25 July, access will be restricted to trade visitors and footwear retailers, facilitating commercial agreements and the expansion of distribution networks. On Sunday, 26 July, the fair will also open its doors to the general public.
The event aims to help shape the future of the barefoot footwear sector through a programme of trend talks, workshops and round-table discussions exploring the industry’s development.
The move towards foot-friendly design by brands such as Conguitos confirms that barefoot footwear is here to stay. Retailers are adapting to growing consumer demand for products that prioritise foot health and well-being.
About Conguitos
Conguitos is a Spanish children’s footwear brand founded in Elche, Alicante, in 1990, with the mission of combining comfort and style for children.
Over the years, the brand has expanded through specialised collections such as Osito by Conguitos, launched in 2010 and focused on first steps, and its Conguitos Textil childrenswear collection, introduced in 2012.
In 2024, Conguitos strengthened its commitment to foot-friendly footwear with the launch of Tecnobaby by Conguitos, a new collection specifically designed for children taking their first steps.
Today, the brand also offers the Osito Goflex and Conguitos Goflex collections for younger children, as well as Break & Walk B&W Goflex for teenagers, ensuring that children and young people of all ages have access to footwear that prioritises their health and well-being.
