• Barefoot begins with BÄR.

  • Freedom pioneers

  • Original since 1982.

  • Service & Help

Barefoot begins with BÄR.

Freedom pioneers

Original since 1982.

Haben Sie einen Hallux Valgus?

Do you have a
bunion?

Learn from Dr. Manke why conventional shoes make the problem worse and how BÄR shoes can help you regain your natural foot shape

Dr. Manke erklärt

Dr. Manke explains

In an interview with BÄR Schuhe, foot orthopedist Dr. Manke dispels a widespread myth: hallux valgus is not an inevitable fate that you are powerless to prevent.

"If Grandma and Mom have it, the daughter will probably get it too. But you can’t blame it solely on genetics! It’s often caused by poor footwear and not spending enough time barefoot."

— Dr. Manke 

Warum entstehen Schmerzen am Ballenzeh?

Why does a bunion hurt?

Dr. Manke identifies three main reasons why the big toe tilts outward:

  • Constricted toes: In conventional shoes, the toes are squeezed together—the shoe forces them into an unnatural position.
  • Lack of training: We train our foot muscles too rarely, which often leads to a splayed foot.
  • The downward spiral: The foot loses its stability, the muscles atrophy, and the misalignment worsens.

What makes the difference for your feet?

See the difference between ordinary shoes and BÄR shoes.

Toe space
Paragraph height
Sole
Comfort
Shelf life
  • Wide toe box for natural toe splay
  • Zero heel for healthy posture
  • Flexible sole with cushioning
  • 100% comfort through 100% toe freedom
  • Handcrafted, durable quality
Regular shoe
  • A narrow fit often causes bunion pain.
  • Elevated heel may strain your back
  • Stiff sole, less comfort
  • Comfort often uncertain
  • Often wears out quickly
Dr. Mankes Rat: "Jetzt heißt es aktiv werden!"

Dr. Mankes’s advice: “Now it’s time to take action!”

The good news from the expert: In the early stages, muscle strength can still correct the misalignment.

Dr. Manke recommends the following for your feet:

  1. Strengthen the muscles: Targeted exercises to make the foot resilient again.
  2. Check your footwear: Make sure your shoes do not constrict the foot anywhere.
  3. Allow its natural shape: The foot must be able to spread out according to its natural shape.
Konsequente Zehenfreiheit nach dem BÄR-Prinzip

Consistent toe freedom according to the BÄR principle

Our shoes address exactly where Dr. Manke sees the solution. We give your toes the space they need for healthy function.

  • Anatomical fit: Supports the natural alignment of the big toe.

"We should give our toes the space they deserve—and not confine them."

— Dr. Manke

Experiences with bunions

Real stories from customers who love our products

No more other shoes—relief for my feet

Gabriele S.

Slip them on and feel comfortable—my sensitive feet and hallux valgus feel like they’ve reached seventh heaven. I wear these shoes for everyday activities as well as sports and hiking. I’m already thinking about ordering a second pair in a different color.

Birgit B.

I wear these shoes in dark blue. These shoes are fantastic. Super comfortable—you forget you’re wearing shoes. They fit like a second skin on your feet. Best shoes I’ve had in a long time. They are expensive, but worth every penny.

Diana R.

Unpacked, put on, and went for a walk—they fit like a glove. So comfortable! So elegant! So refined! So well made! I’m thrilled. No comparison to the many plastic barefoot shoes—these are worth every penny.

Dorothee H.

Mine have clocked over 1,000 km in the meantime. During my last 100 km march, my feet stayed dry even in heavy rain. Finally, a shoe that doesn’t give me foot pain on long-distance walks.

Regina D.

Comfort meets health

Discover more articles with Dr. Manke

  • List
  • Map