Good walking from the start – for children and adults

Children's feet are not like small adult feet. Initially, they consist largely of cartilage, are particularly soft and malleable—and need plenty of freedom to develop healthily. The human foot is not fully developed until around 18 years of age. Especially in the first few years of life, it grows rapidly: up to 1,5 mm per month.

That's why it's important that children's feet are allowed to move as naturally as possible—barefoot or in shoes that allow them to do so. Barefoot shoes provide the necessary freedom, stimulate the foot muscles, and help develop healthy posture.

But switching to barefoot shoes is also worthwhile for adults: Many common complaints such as foot deformities, back pain, or tension are caused by shoes that are too tight or rigid. A well-made barefoot shoe can help you regain your natural movement, strengthen muscles, and ensure long-term well-being – step by step.

Our advice: Children's feet grow quickly – so check the fit regularly! With POLOLO slippers, it's helpful to check the sole or the removable insole. For adults, the rule is: Give your feet freedom of movement and make sure they feel good when walking barefoot – for healthy steps at any age.

Healthy feet are no coincidence—the result of good care, freedom of movement, and the right shoes. The foundation for a lifetime of healthy feet is laid in childhood. Adults also benefit noticeably when they pay careful attention to the fit and material of their shoes.

For children:

Children's feet are constantly moving – and that's a good thing. Muscles, tendons, and bones develop through activity and need space to grow healthily. This is best achieved barefoot – or in light slippers like the POLOLO barefoot models, which, with flexible, thin soles made of vegetable-tanned leather, promote natural movement without restricting it.

The following applies to street shoes:

• At least 10-12 mm clearance Leave space between the foot and the toe of the shoe – this leaves enough room for growth and movement.
• Best to try on in the afternoonas feet can swell slightly throughout the day.
• Be sure to check while standing and walking, because only then does the foot sit correctly in the shoe.
• No prefabricated footbeds – they restrict natural movement. Children's feet must be allowed to develop independently.

For adults:

Freedom of movement is crucial for adults, too. Our feet are a complex interplay of over 30 joints and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments – they want to work, not be fixed. Many misalignments and problems in the back or knees have their origins in ill-fitting footwear.

Barefoot shoes offer a soothing alternative:
They encourage the foot to actively participate, train the foot muscles, and can help restore natural movement. Particularly important are sufficient space in the toe area, flexible soles, and a breathable, non-toxic material.

Why the material matters:

Our POLOLO shoes are made of high-quality, ecological materials such as vegetable-tanned leather, organic cotton or the innovative one Cactus leather or Seaqual® YarnThese materials are not only environmentally friendly, but also particularly skin-friendly, breathable, and durable.

Good material isn't just a question of sustainability, but also of comfort – it protects the feet without isolating them. And: Those who wear high-quality, well-fitting shoes as children can often enjoy healthy feet and a stable posture later in life.