Roam Barefoot aims to provide stylish and comfortable barefoot footwear, addressing the gap in the market while promoting wellness and proper foot development.
Foot pain and discomfort can significantly impact daily life, and many individuals might be unaware that their footwear is contributing to these issues. The Natural Parent Magazine highlights how traditional shoes often restrict the natural movement of the feet, leading to problems such as bunions, tight hips, and back discomfort. Foot health is especially crucial during various stages of life; from the time babies and toddlers begin to walk, having bare feet or soft, flexible shoes is essential for proper foot development. As children transition into their teenage years, the continued need for supportive footwear remains.
In this context, Roam Barefoot has emerged as a new business aiming to provide accessible, stylish, and comfortable barefoot footwear options for families in New Zealand. The founders recognized a gap in the market for quality barefoot shoes, as the local availability was limited to only one brand sold in a few specialty shops. This situation left consumers facing high prices and challenges with return policies, supporting the founders’ motivation to establish a locally-focused business dedicated to foot health.
The founders, who share a longstanding passion for foot health and a desire to make barefoot shoes more accessible, were driven to address the rising shipping costs that impacted the import of these products post-pandemic. Acknowledging that barefoot shoes have evolved significantly in both comfort and aesthetics since their earlier perceptions—often associated with the so-called ‘toe shoes’—the entrepreneurs sought to change this narrative and demonstrate that individuals can care for their feet while maintaining a fashionable appearance.
Their journey began informally, even before the establishment of a website. Initial sales efforts were conducted through Instagram, utilizing a spreadsheet to manage pre-orders and manual invoices. Their enthusiasm, despite the challenges, was evident as they celebrated each sale. The first brand to partner with them was Be Lenka, setting a high standard for future collaborations. The founders invested in essential equipment, like a tag printing machine, and implemented thoughtful touches for customers, such as personalized thank-you cards and special treats included with orders.
A critical challenge arose when they needed to refine their pricing strategy, initially based on foreign markets and brand partners’ recommended retail prices. After a thorough analysis of shipping and import costs, they recalibrated their pricing model to ensure sustainability while committing to ethical employment practices and genuine sustainability across their brand partnerships.
Balancing the demands of family life with their entrepreneurial pursuits has also been part of their journey. Both founders manage their individual businesses while raising children, each with distinct needs. They emphasize the importance of supporting each other and striving to work during school hours, although evenings and weekends often require additional time. This year, they are in the process of hiring a team member to help alleviate their workload and improve their work-life balance further.
Roam Barefoot’s mission is grounded in promoting healthy foot development and comfort for all ages. Their innovative approach to footwear aims to support wellness from the ground up, addressing a crucial aspect of physical well-being often overlooked in mainstream shoe design.
Source: Noah Wire Services
