Over the past 4 years of R&D we have tested nearly 100 different footbed materials in an effort to find the ultimate all weather traction technology for our adventure sandals. We tested numerous synthetic non-slip materials but found them either too abrasive, suffocating to the sole causing sweaty slippery feet or that they simply didn't perform markedly better than our existing adventures sandals. Wanting to cover all our options we began another round of testing involving natural woven materials and stumbled upon greatness. Cotton, arguably the most used natural fiber on the planet. It’s inherent abrasion strength, pleasing texture, mildew resistance, unsurpassed foot traction, absorbancy and natural properties were exactly what we were looking for all along. Needless to say, it wholly aligned with our mission to lighten the human ecological footprint by living more in-tune with the natural world.

Earth-Grip Footbed

We landed on an low impact dyed (GOTS certified) cotton canvas material that resembles the feel of a mild bare earth equivalent--with superior all weather traction. Unique to the footwear industry, we have developed our own solvent free non-toxic lamination process. Most footwear produced in the world uses extremely toxic contact cement that is unhealthy for the cobbler, the Earth and not something you would ever want in your bedroom. You can adventure in our sandals sure footed, knowing that your soles are aligned with the Earth through and through. 

Learn about the other Sandal Components here.

Trail Running in Earth Runners Sandals

Adventure To Beach In Minimalist Hiking Sandals

Candy Rock California in Earth Grip Minimalist Outdoor Sandals

Sierra Mountain Biking in Earth Runners Adventure Sandals

 

Trail ready light weight cushioned sole	The ultimate barefoot traction running sandal

It has been an exciting sea son for Earth Runners having transplanted to a new workshop in the Santa Cruz Mountains with Mount Madonna Park out the backdoor! Our inspiring new headquarters combined with a great deal of very helpful feedback from our tribe has led to furious experimentation. Trying to come up with the perfect sandal that incorporated all your input in a simple. durable, grounded package, we soon realized that there was no way to create one sandal that covered everything. We expanded our view and came up with three!

Slip-on Laces

Simple is sexy! Many people love the simplicity and comfort of our huarache lace design but valued more ease in daily slipping on and off the sandal, rather than using their sandals for the intense physical activity that our normal laces support. Incorporating your input and requests for a more casual option, we created a one of a kind slip-on lacing system with grounded and ungrounded options. This fashionable new design is super simple to adjust and easy to slip on and off. So easy in fact, a three year old can do it (Video). The thong is made from the same nylon as our original lacing and attaches to an elasticized material which makes up the remainder of the laces. The fit is adjusted with a metal buckle on the outside of the ankle.

eXtreme Sandals

For those Earth Runners that live in their sandals and find themselves backpacking, base jumping, or signed up for a 50+ mile trail race we developed the X (eXtreme) series. The X models offer more protection and longevity than the originals and utilize lacing routed directly through the sole for added security. The Circadian X has all the attributes of the original like the best grip, unsurpassed durability, and detailed ground feel while adding an extra 2mm of protection with an 8mm tread. This may not seem like much, but 2mm of this high quality Vibram tread goes an incredibly long way in terms of protection without sacrificing proprioception. The Circadian X is available with or without: bedding, conductive inserts, and is compatible with any of our lacing styles. Similar to the original Alpha, the Alpha X delivers incredible moldability and ground feel for a thicker sandal, while adding a stiff dose of durability and traction to the mix. The Vibram Woodstock tread has become a staff favorite for its all around daily comfort in a sandal that excels at more demanding tasks such as an impromptu backpacking trip. This model particularly shines in long distance walking/running applications. The Alpha X is available with bedding only, and any of our lacing styles.

Premium Leather Laces

In response to the folks who wished for a more natural looking/feeling sandal we developed premium leather laces. They feel wonderful, are amazingly durable, and they look fantastic. Our new leather laces utilize our locking buckle to make securing these laces a cinch. Check out our new comparison chart of all our models.