April 2024
Managing Director Christof Bär wants to win over shoe retailers as partners.
The barefoot and minimalist shoe movement has evolved from a trend into an established part of the lifestyle. In this segment, the Swabian company BÄR is considered a pioneer and is pursuing further growth—including in collaboration with the shoe trade.
Christof Bär, Managing Director of BÄR, explains: "Walking as if barefoot on the beach has always been our unique selling point." Since the company was founded, BÄR has focused on offering a wide toe box to provide maximum flexibility in the forefoot area, as well as ensuring zero heel-to-toe drop in the sole.
In recent years, the company has developed special models that come even closer to the feeling of walking barefoot. Despite his passion for flat soles and maximum toe room, Christof Bär acknowledges that people's needs vary widely. He therefore emphasizes the importance of individualized advice when buying barefoot shoes. "With every customer, it is important to first look at their age, how well trained they are, and what they want to do with barefoot shoes," explains Bär.
The company places great importance on giving customers the opportunity to try out different products and gradually increase the amount of walking they do in barefoot shoes. BÄR offers a wide range of sole options to meet different needs. Cooperation with the shoe trade is an important step in further establishing the brand in the market. Since autumn 2022, the company has had contracts with leading buying groups such as ANWR, GMS, Sport2000, and SABU.
BÄR offers extensive support for retailers, including sales training, instruction, and POS materials based on its own specialist retail experience. Christof Bär also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and social responsibility. The company controls its entire supply chain through its own production facilities and is committed to creating a better world. Looking to the future, Christof Bär is confident: "It is the right time, and we are in the right place with the BÄR brand. We actively support retailers, and we offer those who want to do something new the right product."
February 2024
BÄR's lined fur boot ranks first among the best winter barefoot shoes
Barefoot shoes have experienced a remarkable rise in recent years. Unlike conventional footwear, they enable a natural walking experience and are intended to prevent foot problems. For a long time, barefoot shoes were mainly available in summer styles. Desired tested five barefoot shoes suitable for winter. The AMAL model ranked first in the test of the best winter barefoot shoes.
Barefoot shoes provide a walking experience close to walking barefoot while protecting sensitive soles from injury. The soles are thin enough to remain flexible, yet robust enough to protect against sharp surfaces. They also provide sufficient room for the toes, thereby promoting natural foot movement, which can offer relief for conditions such as hallux valgus or claw toes.
The selection of winter-ready barefoot shoes is still limited, but BÄR's lined boots are undoubtedly the warmest option. Despite their modern design and high-quality materials such as cowhide nappa leather, shearling, and felt, they do not look like barefoot shoes. They feature a high-profile sole that ensures secure traction even on icy surfaces and come with a removable insole with a leather covering for additional comfort.
BÄR's model is available in black and beige and offers a perfect combination of style and functionality. Despite the somewhat higher price of over 100 euros, they are a worthwhile investment because they are manufactured under fair conditions and provide the highest level of comfort.
