The second edition of the Barefoot European Shoe Fair underscored the growing importance of the barefoot shoe segment. From July 24th to 26th, a total of 102 exhibitors with 121 brands from 26 countries presented their products at the Offenbach exhibition halls. According to the organizers, around 75 percent of the exhibiting companies came from abroad. This further solidified the fair's position as an international industry meeting place for barefoot shoes.
“The strong international interest and the positive development in exhibitor numbers are a clear indication of the attractiveness of our trade fair location,” explained Arnd Hinrich Kappe, Managing Director of Messe Offenbach. The high international profile of the exhibitors also underscores the growing importance of Barefoot as an international industry platform.
The first two days of the event were reserved exclusively for trade professionals. Manufacturers, brands, retailers, and industry experts used the fair to view new collections, exchange information on current market trends, and establish new business relationships. On Sunday, the fair also opened its doors to consumers. This was intended to raise awareness of barefoot shoes and their unique product features beyond the trade audience. The focus was on new products, materials, and innovations, as well as further networking within the international barefoot shoe industry.
Barefoot shoes are gaining importance in the collections.
The growth of the trade fair reflects the dynamic development of the entire market segment. Barefoot shoes are no longer offered exclusively by specialized suppliers. Increasingly, established shoe brands are also integrating corresponding models into their collections. In doing so, they not only expand their product range but also offer retailers additional opportunities to respond to rising consumer demand.
A recent survey by the German Federal Association of the Footwear and Leather Goods Industry (HDS/L) reveals the significant growth in the share of barefoot shoes within collections. Among the manufacturers and brands surveyed, the average share of barefoot shoe models in the Spring/Summer 2026 season was 13 percent. A year earlier, the average was six percent. For the majority of the companies surveyed, the share had recently ranged between ten and 20 percent. According to the association, this development underscores the increased importance of this segment.
This development is facilitated by the increasing awareness of the product category. In addition to the unique walking experience and freedom of movement, manufacturers are increasingly focusing their marketing on topics such as health, well-being, and longevity. Modern designs and a broader fashion focus also contribute to barefoot shoes now reaching diverse age groups and target audiences.
According to the German Shoe Industry Association (HDS/L), the segment has largely shed its former eco-image. Products are becoming more fashionable, and the selection of colors, materials, and silhouettes is growing. As a result, barefoot shoes are likely to increasingly appeal to consumers who, in addition to function and comfort, place great value on a contemporary look when making their purchasing decisions.
From summer theme to year-round product
At the same time, barefoot shoes are increasingly evolving from a seasonal product to a year-round trend. While retailers in the past often associated barefoot shoes primarily with the spring and summer seasons, the manufacturers surveyed now also offer suitable models for autumn and winter. All participants in the HDS/L survey now consider this product group a relevant range for the entire year.
This simultaneously increases the demands on product development and product range. Among other things, weatherproof materials, warmer linings, and sole constructions that combine the basic principle of barefoot running with the requirements of the colder months are in demand. For retailers, this development offers the opportunity to present this product group not just seasonally, but permanently on the sales floor.
International markets offer further opportunities
According to industry experts, growth is not limited to Germany. The first edition of the trade fair already attracted numerous international visitors to Offenbach. Many manufacturers are focusing their export activities primarily on European markets. Key target countries include Great Britain, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Spain. Furthermore, suppliers also see further potential in the USA.
Brick-and-mortar retailers continue to play a crucial role. According to the German Association of Footwear Retailers (HDS/L), in addition to modern product design, expert advice remains paramount. Consumers need to understand the specific characteristics of barefoot shoes and experience the altered wearing and walking sensation firsthand. Manufacturers therefore support retailers with training materials, technical information, and targeted marketing initiatives.
The trade fair will now be held every six months.
Due to its positive development, Barefoot will now be held twice a year. Even before the start of the second edition, 58 exhibitors had already confirmed their participation in the next event. According to the organizers, further registrations were received during the three days of the trade fair.
“The great response shows that Barefoot has established itself as an important international platform for the barefoot shoe industry and is now a fixed date in the trade fair calendar for many companies,” Kappe explained.
The third edition will take place from January 29 to 31, 2027. The fourth event is already scheduled for July 23 to 25, 2027. With this biannual schedule, the trade fair aims to cover both the spring/summer and autumn/winter seasons of the industry.
You can read a detailed report about the Barefoot in issue SHOEZ 9-2026.
