DIY 100% Wool Barefoot Boots

Handmade. Water-Resistant. Zero-Drop. Wide Toe box. Flexible. Cozy & Warm.

✔️ Beginner/Moderate Sewing Skill Required

✔️ Normal Sewing Machine – No Special Tools

✔️ 100% Wool (Upcycled & Felted)

✔️ Naturally Water-Resistant (Lanolin Treatment)

✔️ Barefoot-Friendly Design

Why I Made These

I wanted a warm, breathable, and barefoot-friendly boot for our toddler (age 2–3) that aligned with our values: natural materials and a functional design (bonus is they're super affordable to make). These boots resemble the popular leather moccasins but with a wool twist and full boot coverage – perfect for Canadian winters.

I got these to me a natural alternative to the MEC Toaster boots we love using - See my Youtube Video for my recommendations for the Best Barefoot Shoes for Winter for Toddlers.

Materials & Pattern

• Pattern: I used a purchased pattern from Etsy (not my own shop – CarmensCornerCA]). You can find the exact one I used here from HappyBabyPatterns (size 0-7years).

• Fabric: I felted two thrifted wool sweaters for the body. The arms became pants and mittens – nothing wasted.

• Sole: Rubber crepe sole, glued and trimmed to fit. This is the same method I use for my barefoot sandals.

• Velcro: Industrial strength – holds firm and lasts. (See my Barefoot Sandal Supply List for sourcing.)

  
  

Tips from Experience

🧵 Layering: I initially double-layered every piece, which made sewing through thick wool quite challenging. Next time, I’ll only double where needed (toe box, heel, sole) and keep the rest single-layer for ease and flexibility. The pattern doesn't use wool so they recommend a liner, where I don't think double layering or a liner is necessary for each piece.

🧼 Lanolizing: Before attaching the sole, I lanolized the wool to boost water resistance. This step is key for wet or snowy conditions.

👣 Barefoot Fit: The pattern allows for a wide toe box and zero-drop sole, supporting natural foot development. The pattern doesn't cover how to do an outdoor sole - but you can see how I did the sole for any of my other barefoot shoes I made.

How They’re Holding Up

These boots are performing beautifully. They’re warm, breathable, and stay on securely thanks to the industrial velcro. Plus, they look adorable – like wooly moccasins with a boot upgrade.

These are our current go to shoes for quick outings in the colder weather - quick trips to the shop or other activities that are indoors. We've also used them for a longer outdoor walk and playing at the park - they hold up well, but the main purpose for these shoes is convenience to put on, warms, natural & regulating temperature well for quickly going from hot to cold and back to hot.

Best Barefoot Shoes for Toddlers for Winter (Canada)

These shoes are awesome, and I definitely recommend making them if you have a sewing machine and some basic (to advanced) sewing skills! I plan to make a pair for Elba every year so I'll be reusing the pattern I purchased.

For myself and Ian I do have another pattern I am eyeing to make us similar shoes. I'll be sharing more shoes and other natural wool items I make for winter - Subscribe to my website below :)

Let me know if you end up making them!

Carmen