Softstar, a specialist in minimal leather footwear, handcrafts shoes in Oregon, USA, that incorporate both fashion and function. One of the company’s shoe styles, the Ballerine, is a leather ballet flat that combines leather and a sleek, simple design to transition to different settings. “The Ballerine is consistently one of our most popular styles,” said Softstar CEO Tricia Salcido. “Our customers love that they can wear beautiful shoes without sacrificing comfort.” With hundreds of five star reviews to date, the Ballerine’s following is loyal and growing. Here are five reasons why these flats are attracting business professionals and barefoot shoe enthusiasts alike:
1. Spacious toe box for all-day comfort
The Ballerine features a spacious toe box that does not constrict or compress toes into unnatural formations.
2. Customizable colors
The Ballerine is available in a selection of color combinations chosen by Softstar’s in-house shoe designers. Customers can also choose their own colors in hundreds of possible combinations to suit their needs and individual personality.
3. Natural non-toxic materials
From body care products to clothing and footwear, anything that comes in contact with the skin can be absorbed. Softstar uses premium eco-leather tanned without toxic chemicals, including vegetable tanned leather choices from the Ecopell tannery. The shoes are also made by hand in Softstar’s Oregon workshop, providing local jobs and a low carbon footprint.
4. Minimal, flexible sole
The Ballerine features a 4mm Vibram outsole and a lightly cushioned insole for comfort. This creates a barefoot-like feel that encourages feet to move and flex naturally.
5. Lightweight and compact for travel
The Ballerine takes up a fraction of the space that conventional shoes do. Weighing in at an average of 5 ounces.
The Ballerine also has a durable heel wrap for long-lasting wear and an optional elastic closure for those on the go.
