Omaking is a barefoot shoe and slipper manufacturer with deep roots in Estonian shoemaking traditions. The company was founded by Peeter in 1927 in a small workshop where everything was made by hand, from cutting to molding, with exceptional precision. Over the years, the business grew under the careful stewardship of Peeter’s descendants, becoming Ritico OÜ in 1993. By 1998, they were producing not only gym slippers but also sandals, insoles, and other footwear under the OmaKing brand name, which is now recognized for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and honoring Nordic footwear culture. Today, the family-run company is managed by Peeter’s great-great-granddaughter Liis, continuing the tradition of crafting sustainable, high-quality footwear in Estonia.
The Omaking Lusti Soft Leather Barefoot Shoes are a perfect example of the company’s dedication to craftsmanship and natural foot development. These shoes are designed for toddlers and young children, featuring a T-Bar style with a velcro strap fastening for easy wear. The sleek black color and extra soft leather upper make them versatile for both school and everyday use.
Design and Features
The first thing that stands out is the shoe’s high-quality leather. It’s buttery soft, flexible, and comfortable, which is crucial for developing feet. The leather molds gently to the shape of the foot, allowing freedom of movement and a natural walking pattern. The thin rubber outsole is flexible and lightweight, promoting natural foot movement while providing just enough protection. The shoe’s design respects the shape of a healthy foot with a well-shaped toebox that offers plenty of room for toes to spread and move freely. The external stitching adds durability and a handcrafted aesthetic, while the perforations on the toe not only offer breathability but also lend a decorative touch.
The removable insoles are a thoughtful addition, as they allow for better customization to your child’s foot, whether for additional cushioning or enhanced ventilation. Ventilation is further promoted by the perforated design at the toe, which not only looks charming but keeps the feet cool and dry. These shoes are best suited for medium to wider feet and work wonderfully for both first-walkers and confident walkers. However, they might not be ideal for children with low insteps or very skinny ankles, as they could feel a bit loose in those cases.
One additional highlight is that Omaking extends their sizing from 21 to 31, so not just babies, but toddlers and young children can enjoy these beautifully designed barefoot shoes. This is excellent for parents looking to continue supporting their children’s natural foot development as they grow.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Omaking’s commitment to sustainability is evident in these shoes, which are made in Europe from non-toxic materials. The high quality of the leather, the attention to foot health, and the overall craftsmanship make these shoes a standout in the barefoot shoe market. They are built to last, and the soft leather combined with the flexible sole makes them ideal for children who are constantly on the move. As with most barefoot shoes, they mimic the feeling of walking barefoot, which is key for strengthening muscles, improving balance, and maintaining proper foot alignment.
In addition to the Lusti shoes, we’ve also purchased Omaking’s foot-shaped ballet shoes, and both of my daughters absolutely love them. The comfort and thoughtful design of these ballet shoes have made them a favorite in our household.
My Experience
I think these are some of the most beautiful, traditional shoes I’ve seen for toddlers. They have a classic, traditional English T-bar sandal aesthetic, and I have to admit, my daughter looks absolutely adorable in them. The shoes have a timeless, royal vibe to them, especially when paired with frilly socks, which makes them ideal for special occasions or even just for stylish everyday wear.
The leather is incredibly soft, and the combination with the flexible rubber sole creates the perfect balance of comfort and support for natural foot development. The toebox is spacious enough for toes to splay, which is essential for proper foot health. I also love the external stitching; it not only adds to the durability but also gives the shoes a handmade, vintage look. The perforated holes make them more breathable than your typical leather shoe, which is a huge bonus, especially for warmer days.
These shoes are not just cute – they are functional. They provide ample space for foot growth, offer great flexibility for natural movement, and the materials used are durable yet gentle on the skin. The velcro strap makes them easy to adjust, which is especially handy when you have a little one who is always on the go.
Final Thoughts
The Omaking Lusti Soft Leather Barefoot Shoes are a delightful blend of traditional style and modern barefoot shoe philosophy. They’re perfect for parents who want to combine beautiful, classic designs with the health benefits of barefoot shoes. If you’re looking for a shoe that promotes foot health while also being adorable and versatile, these are a great option. While they’re best suited for medium to wider feet, the quality and craftsmanship are undeniable, and they will be a treasured pair for any little one.
You can purchase the Omaking Lusti shoes from Bubbly Toes Barefoot (non-affiliate link: Bubbly Toes) within the UK. Though I don’t have a discount code to offer, rest assured that Bubbly Toes is a trusted retailer for barefoot shoes.
Brit👣