Whilst now a staple in most babies’ wardrobes, with a pair of Bobux Soft Sole shoes bought somewhere in the world every 60 seconds, it was Kiwi brand, Bobux, that created the world’s first leather Soft Sole shoe nearly 30 years ago.

In 1991, Bobux’s founders, Chris and Colleen Bennett, took to their garage, armed with leather and suede, and made their first pair of Soft Sole shoes for their daughter, Chloe. Revolutionary when they were first designed, a new footwear category was born, and the Bobux Soft Sole is now firmly established as a cornerstone of healthy foot development.

Design and detail

Bobux’s designers have a deep consideration for the sensory attributes of the adorable characters that appear on their Soft Sole designs. From the position of their features, to the stitching and layering, to their texture, colour and geometry – every aspect of Bobux’s Soft Soles is deliberate. Everything comes together to create a range of shoes that truly nurture baby’s development.

Wild Things – The Wild Things mini collection showcases the spots, stripes and shapes of the wildest characters in the Bobux universe. Starting with the classic Soft Sole recipe: a simple base, hidden inner seam, elasticated ankle, and super soft leather and suede, Wild Things Soft Soles are then finished with animal print designs to suit your wild child. Available in ‘Giraffe Print’ (fall leaf and milk), ‘Leopard Print’ (gold and caramel) and ‘Zebra Print’ (white).

Paw Pals – The loveable characters in the Paw Pals mini collection are smiley and simple for a subtle touch of cuteness. The minimalist design is brought to life through texture: stitched appliqués create a layered effect, and a mixture of smooth leather and fuzzy suede make these Soft Soles perfect for touch play. The classic Soft Sole base ensures a soft, comfortable and secure fit, perfect for everyday wear. Available in designs ‘Hop’ (blossom and silver), ‘Cub’ (milk and chocolate) and ‘Woof’ (caramel and gull grey).

Varsity – Taking inspiration from collegiate sport apparel, the Varsity mini collection boasts a range of sporty Soft Soles. The classic design fits snug around chubby ankles while allowing full freedom of movement, and ultra-soft leather and suede is gentle as can be on delicate feet. Available in ‘Sport Classic’ design (blossom, caramel, cobalt, fall leaf and red).

The collection is priced £22 and is available in small (3-9m), medium (9-15m), large (15-27m) and XL (2yrs).

Natural foot development

Babies’ feet are so pliable that even tight-fitting socks can stifle their development – let alone restrictive shoes. Bobux Soft Sole shoes are made from artisanal leather that moves like a second skin on baby’s delicate feet. With that natural flexibility, babies’ feet are free to bend and move like they would barefoot, and their legs are free to kick without any added weight on their feet.

To put it simply, wearing a Bobux Soft Sole provides the freedom required for a little foot to do all the things it should through this stage of development, while providing protection from the environment.

 

EU REACH Tested The Bobux Soft Sole is sold all over the globe, including in the European Union where you’ll find some of the strictest laws on chemical substances in the world. Known as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), the regulation exists to protect human health and the environment from the harmful effects of chemicals.

Award Winning: From International design awards to acknowledgments by community and peer groups Bobux has been recognised around the world. Some recent awards include:

Best Design Awards – Gold Pin 2017, Silver Pin 2019

Made for Mums – Gold Winner 2018 & 2019

Junior Design Awards – Silver Winner 2018 & 2019