WALDLAUFER

Waldlaufer is a German comfort footwear brand built on a family passion for walking and the outdoors. According to our collection page, the brand was founded in 1960 in Schwanheim, Germany, its name translates to "wood walker," and it has stayed family run for two generations. A company profile on FashionUnited also places its headquarters in Schwanheim and describes it as a traditional footwear manufacturer in its second generation. At Sole Provisions, the Waldlaufer collection centers on comfort shoes and sandals for women, and it sits naturally beside our wider arch support shoes, walking shoes, and wide width shoes selections.

Shoes for walking need to do several things at once: fit well, support the foot, and stay light enough that you forget you are wearing them. Waldlaufer approaches that with width options, removable insoles, and built in support, all in a shoe that still looks polished. The sections below explain the brand's story, its fit features, and how to choose a style.

A German Family Brand Named for Walking

The name Waldlaufer reflects the founder's love of walking and the landscapes of his home region, according to our collection page. The company describes itself as bound to tradition and combines traditional craftsmanship with environmentally friendly technology. Exact production figures differ between sources, so check the brand's own website for current details. If you enjoy German comfort brands, you may also like Josef Seibel, Ara, and Rieker.

Up to Four Width Options

Our collection page highlights up to four width options for narrower or wider feet. Width is one of the most overlooked parts of fit, because a shoe that matches your length can still pinch or slip if the width is wrong. Width availability varies by style and size, so check each product page. Browse more in our wide width shoes.

Removable Insoles for Custom Orthotics

Removable insoles leave room for custom orthotics. If you wear orthotics, take out the included insole and replace it with yours. If you do not, the included insole stays in place. Check each product page for the details of your style, and explore our shoe inserts if you want to add your own support. For medical questions about your feet, check with a healthcare professional.

Built In Arch and Metatarsal Support

The shoes include built in arch and metatarsal support, which our collection page says is meant to reduce strain. Arch support gives structure through the middle of the foot, and metatarsal support relates to the ball of the foot area. Support varies by style, so check each product page. Browse more in our arch support shoes.

Dynamic Rolling Sole

Our collection page describes a Dynamic rolling sole line with a curved sole. A curved sole is designed to help the foot roll forward through each step, which some wearers find comfortable for long walks. Details vary by model, and comfort is personal, so try a pair if you can.

Lightweight, Flexible Soles and Quality Leathers

Soles are lightweight and flexible, and the shoes are handcrafted with quality European leathers, according to our collection page. Leather softens with wear, and a flexible sole lets the foot move naturally. Care for leather with our shoe care products, and rotate pairs so each can rest between wears.

Sandals and Everyday Shoes

For warmer months, the collection includes sandals that carry the same comfort features. Browse more in our women's sandals, and pair your shoes with women's socks where the style allows. Our collection may show few products at the moment, so check back for new arrivals and sizes.

Choosing the Right Fit

Think about how far you walk, whether you use orthotics, and whether you need extra width. Try shoes later in the day, when feet tend to be fullest. For a personal fitting, visit one of our Sole Provisions locations, or read more in our educational hub.

A Few Waldlaufer Details Worth Knowing

• German comfort footwear brand founded in 1960, according to our collection page.

• Family run for two generations, according to our collection page.

• Headquartered in Schwanheim, Germany.

• Up to four width options.

• Removable insoles for custom orthotics.

• Built in arch and metatarsal support.

• Lightweight, flexible soles and quality European leathers.

• Styles and availability change often.

• Free shipping on orders over $75, see our shipping policy and returns page.

Explore More German Comfort

If you like Waldlaufer, compare it with Josef Seibel for family made German shoes, Ara for German crafted comfort, Rieker for lightweight styles, Remonte for fashion forward comfort, or Rohde for slippers and sandals. Check new arrivals and sale items for the latest styles and markdowns.

Related Collections: Arch Support Shoes · Walking Shoes · Wide Width Shoes · Women's Sandals · Women's Footwear · Josef Seibel · Ara · Rieker