Earth shoes were the first marketed footwear with a heel lower than the toes, supposedly to align the body and enhance posture. They entered the market on April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day, a yearly observance that spotlights environmental issues.
These versatile boots are made from chic suede with stylish stitching accents. The footbed is layered and heavily cushioned with arch support for all day comfort!
Biomechanics
The original Earth Shoe was developed in Denmark in the late 1950’s by Anna Kalso and became a popular countercultural icon of the 1970’s. It was designed to increase the resistance training effect of uphill walking by creating a negative heel. The forefoot(toes) of the shoe is 1.5 cm higher than the heel. This increases the angle of dorsiflexion of the ankle during normal stance on level ground and helps propel the body forward.
In the simulated race, shoes (CON vs. AFT) did not influence performance and related physiological variables when analyzing data from the uphill and downhill segments individually, but a significant interaction between shoe and set was observed for some biomechanical parameters (step frequency, vertical stiffness, vertical oscillation of center of gravity, and subjective perception of flexibility comfort). This result is consistent with previous research showing that a higher step frequency improves running economy when comparing different types of footwear at the same speed.
Styles
The first shoes marketed with “negative heels,” Earth Shoes were touted as orthopedically superior and stylishly avant-garde. They pioneered the flanged, boxy look that epitomized much of the ’70s-style iconography, from quadraphonic Helen Reddy albums to Bruce Jenner’s hair and the A.M.C Pacer.
At the core of their mission is sustainability, making supremely comfortable and effortlessly stylish footwear that minimizes impact on people and planet through responsible design. They do this by using recyclable, renewable and regenerative materials whenever possible, reducing packaging and working with tanneries that uphold high environmental and social standards. They also use FSC-certified recycled paper and tape, water-based adhesives, and natural cork.
Sustainability
MFF’s goal with the revamped collection is to “reintroduce Earth’s claim to fame, with new levels of comfort and effortless style.” She said the line also includes new footbeds that offer structured arch support and plush padding for long-term comfort. MFF continues to use recycled and renewable materials in its shoes and packaging, and sourcing from tanneries that are members of the Leather Working Group.
The brand is also using social media to connect with its existing, loyal fan base and capture the attention of a younger generation. It’s aligned with a diverse group of content creators that will showcase their personal journeys in pursuing their passions, big and small.
In a world where so many brands jump on the eco-friendly, green-washing bandwagon, it is important to understand the difference between the real thing and a marketing ploy. Earth Shoes, for example, is committed to reducing waste and using reduced packaging that uses FSC-certified recyclable paper tape and soy- or water-based adhesives.
Customer Service
Earth shoes were the first shoes marketed with a negative heel, said to simulate walking in sand and create orthopedically superior posture. They also pioneered the flanged, boxy look that came to epitomize 1970s style — and which would be echoed in everything from Bruce Jenner’s hair to quadraphonic Helen Reddy albums. Today, earth shoes continue to push the envelope of sustainability. They use recyclable, renewable or regenerative materials whenever possible. They also work with suppliers that share their commitment to sustainability.