Feel of shoes – Fit & cushioning

Fits and cushioning levels

The right fit is crucial for a good shoe. Since our feet are exposed to a variety of stresses every day, a shoe should fit optimally from the very beginning. Leather can adapt slightly over time—nevertheless, we recommend choosing carefully and paying attention to a comfortable fit.

BÄR shoes are predominantly available in two fits: Standard and Narrow. The Standard fit is suitable for normal to wider feet and offers generous Toe freedom. The Narrow fit is designed for narrower feet and creates a slimmer silhouette—regardless of the model. The fit is always specified in the respective product description.

But how does the shoe support the foot when it has so much Toe freedom?

Normal shoes are generally narrow, which means that the shoe has the same width at the heel as around the toes. This places the emphasis on stability and support for the toes. BÄR shoes, on the other hand, focus stability and support on the heel. Our models are designed with a narrow fit in the rear of the shoe, allowing you to fully enjoy Toe freedom at the front without experiencing pressure.

In addition to fit, there are also different levels of cushioning. A shoe’s cushioning refers to its ability to absorb the force of an impact. A good cushioning system reduces this vibration and relieves our bodies of the effort required to absorb the impact.

Each sole offers a different level of cushioning, and depending on the occasion, this can be crucial for having comfortable and functional shoes for sports, hiking, or everyday wear.

Damping levels

Low cushioning level:
Summer shoes, sandals, and slippers are deliberately designed to be lightweight and feature subtle cushioning. A zero heel-to-toe drop is standard. To ensure particularly low weight and a natural feel, the soles are slim and provide restrained, close-to-the-ground cushioning.

Medium cushioning level:
Medium cushioning is mainly used in everyday and office shoes. Sneakers and ankle boots are ideal for daily use, such as commuting to work or walking longer distances. Their sole construction provides balanced comfort and supports a pleasant wearing experience for many hours.

High cushioning level:
Sports shoes and hiking shoes are subjected to particularly heavy use. You normally wear them all day, and your body is exposed to many movements.

Materialien, die sich Ihrem Fuß anpassen

Materials that adapt to your foot!

Genuine leather adapts to the individual shape of the foot to some extent as it is worn—this is why people talk about “breaking in” new shoes. It stands out for its natural flexibility, breathability, and durability, allowing shoes to be worn for many years.

The leather we use comes from responsible sources and is a by-product of the food industry. We work closely with selected suppliers whom we know personally, and place great importance on long-term partnerships as well as regular quality and origin checks.

Shoe care