Common Tread

Finding footwear that blends minimalist design, premium craftsmanship, and barefoot comfort has never been easier, thanks to Common Tread. At Happy Little Soles, we’re excited to introduce this South African brand, founded by husband-and-wife team John and Nicole van Besouw. With backgrounds in engineering and occupational therapy, their mission was simple: to create high-quality, foot-friendly footwear that promotes natural movement and healthy development.

Each pair of Common Tread barefoot shoes and sandals is handcrafted in collaboration with skilled artisans in Cape Town and Durban, using locally sourced, eco-conscious leather for flexibility and comfort. Whether your child needs breathable summer sandals or everyday leather shoes, Common Tread offers versatile, adventure-ready footwear designed for natural foot health.

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Why Choose Common Tread Footwear?

Common Tread shoes are crafted with a minimalist philosophy, prioritising natural foot development. Made from premium, locally sourced leather, each pair features a wide toe box, thin flexible sole, and zero-drop design, ensuring a true barefoot experience.

Handcrafted in South Africa, these shoes combine traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, making them an excellent choice for parents seeking healthy footwear for their children.

Key Features of Common Tread Shoes

  • Zero-Drop Sole for Natural Movement: A completely flat sole promotes optimal posture, balance, and muscle engagement, encouraging a natural gait and strong foot development.
  • Common Tread’s Signature Sole Design: A 3mm crepe rubber sole with a 2mm leather insole creates an ultra-thin, 5mm stack height, maximizing ground feel and natural flexibility, making these some of the most minimalist shoes available.
  • Quality Materials: Made from soft, breathable, premium, locally sourced leather which moulds comfortably to the foot—minimising environmental impact while supporting the South African leather industry.
  • Handcrafted Excellence: Created in partnership with skilled artisans in Cape Town and Durban, each shoe reflects a dedication to quality and detail. Preserving traditional craftsmanship while promoting healthy movement.
  • Designed for Growing Feet: Supports strength, flexibility, and balance, allowing natural foot movement and encouraging healthy development.

Common Tread Sandals: Ultimate Barefoot Freedom

Common Tread’s barefoot sandals are a standout in the minimalist footwear world, offering a super-thin, wide-fit sole that enhances the barefoot experience. Designed for breathability, these lightweight sandals are perfect for warm weather and active outdoor play.

  • Ultra-Thin, 5mm Sole – Promotes natural unimpeded movement without restricting foot flexibility.
  • Barefoot-Friendly Fit – Encourages posture alignment and natural foot function while allowing muscles to strengthen with every step.
  • Secure & Adjustable Straps – Provides a custom fit for all-day comfort during adventures.

If you're searching for the perfect pair of shoes for summer adventures, these sandals offer a blend of function and freedom, ensuring comfort, protection, and barefoot movement.

Common Tread at Happy Little Soles

At Happy Little Soles, we’re proud to bring Common Tread to a wider audience, celebrating their commitment to barefoot freedom, sustainable craftsmanship, and healthy foot development. Their flexible, foot-friendly footwear strikes the perfect balance of comfort and minimalist design, allowing children to explore the world naturally and confidently.

Find the Perfect Common Tread Shoes for Your Child Today!

Explore the Common Tread range today and give your child the freedom to move, grow, and play in barefoot footwear designed for stronger foot muscles, healthy foot movement and happy adventures!