Rope sandals are enjoying spectacular global success today. On beaches, in cities, and even on the runways of major fashion houses, these minimalist shoes attract with their comfort, lightness, and timeless bohemian style.
Known internationally as ropesandals, they have become a true fashion trend.
However, long before major luxury brands and fast fashion giants adopted this style, an independent brand had already laid the foundations for this aesthetic: Nomadic State of Mind.
The story of these rope sandals is one of a simple idea that became a global phenomenon.
The Origin of Rope Sandals
The use of rope or braided fibers in footwear has existed for centuries. Espadrilles, for example, have used a rope sole for hundreds of years in the Iberian Peninsula.
However, the modern version of minimalist rope sandals, lightweight and suitable for a nomadic lifestyle, appeared much more recently.
This type of sandal is linked to a particular cultural movement: one of freedom of movement, alternative festivals, and a search for simpler, more durable products.
It was in this world that the modern rope sandal was born.
Nomadic State of Mind: A Sandal Born in a Hippie Van
The story of Nomadic State of Mind began in the United States in 1997.
Chris Anderson, a hippie and vegan for about thirty years, traveled across the United States in his Volkswagen van to attend the country's most famous alternative and hippie festivals.
He wore plastic flip-flop-style sandals, but found them unaesthetic and, more importantly, contradictory to his ecological convictions.
He then decided to create his own sandal.
In his van, he began to make the first handmade rope sandals.
The first pairs quickly found success at festivals and in alternative communities.
In 1999, the brand Nomadic State of Mind was officially created.
Handmade Rope Sandals in Fair Trade Workshops
Nomadic State of Mind sandals are genuine handmade ropesandals.
Each pair is handcrafted by artisans in the brand's fair trade workshops in Nicaragua.
Depending on demand, between 60 and 100 artisans participate in the manufacturing process.
The manufacturing relies on artisanal know-how in knotting and assembling the rope, which results in:
- a flexible sandal
- natural foot support
- great lightness
- excellent durability
Unlike mass-produced industrial sandals, each pair requires several manual assembly steps.
An Eco-Responsible Brand with a Zero Waste Policy
Nomadic State of Mind is committed to an eco-responsible and sustainable approach.
The brand implements a Zero Waste policy in its workshops.
All rope scraps from sandal manufacturing are collected and reused.
These materials are used to create:
- artisanal wall decorations
- bags
- floor mats
- various decorative objects
This approach helps limit raw material waste and gives a second life to the materials used in manufacturing.
Rope Largely Made from Recycled Plastic
Nomadic State of Mind sandals are made from polypropylene rope largely composed of recycled plastics.
These plastics can come from:
- plastic bottles
- plastic bags
- household plastic waste
A small proportion of new plastic is sometimes added to improve flexibility and comfort.
This material offers several advantages:
- high resistance
- exceptional lightness
- quick drying
- water resistance
The sandals can be machine washed at 30° without spinning.
Why Rope Sandals Are So Comfortable
Comfortable rope sandals appeal with their lightness and natural feel on the foot.
A pair of Nomadic State of Mind sandals weighs an average of about 270 grams, making them extremely light.
The rope structure allows the foot to breathe and naturally conforms to its shape.
Many users describe the sensation as walking barefoot on a light carpet.
A Sandal Designed to Last for Several Years
Nomadic State of Mind sandals are built to last.
The majority of users wear their sandals for at least 2 to 3 years, and some customers report wearing their pairs for over 10 years.
For people who wear out their shoes quickly, the brand also offers models with rubber soles, providing better wear resistance.
The JC Model: The Brand's Iconic Sandal
The most iconic model remains the JC rope sandals
This was the first model created by Chris Anderson in his Volkswagen van in the 1990s.
More than twenty-five years later, it remains the brand's global best-seller.
The Romano Model: Chic Bohemian Style
The Romano model is one of the most popular models.
It is particularly appreciated for its chic bohemian style, perfect with:
- summer dresses
- summer outfits
- casual looks
These women's rope sandals are particularly appreciated for their bohemian style and comfort.
The brand also offers men's rope sandals, such as the Toe Joe sandals, appreciated for their lightness and minimalist style.
When Luxury Brands Take Inspiration from Rope Sandals
Over the years, the minimalist style of ropesandals has caught the attention of the fashion industry.
Several prestigious houses have offered their own interpretations of sandals using ropes or similar materials:
- Chanel
- Valentino
- Isabel Marant
- Etro
- Saint Laurent
- Karl Lagerfeld
- Polo Ralph Lauren
Runways and fashion magazines have helped popularize this aesthetic.
From Haute Couture to Fast Fashion
Once adopted by luxury houses, the rope sandal trend quickly spread throughout the industry.
Today, many brands offer models inspired by this style:
- Zara
- H&M
- Bershka
- outdoor brands
- sportswear brands
A Sandal Adopted by Celebrities
Over the years, Nomadic State of Mind sandals have been worn by many personalities from the world of cinema, fashion, and entertainment.
Among the celebrities often associated with this style are:
- Jennifer Aniston
- Heidi Klum
- Ralph Lauren
These examples, however, represent only a portion of the personalities who have adopted bohemian and minimalist rope sandals.
A Brand Distributed in Over 25 Countries
Today, Nomadic State of Mind sandals are sold in over 25 countries.
Hundreds of thousands of customers wear these sandals worldwide.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Rope Sandals
Are rope sandals comfortable?
Yes. Their flexible structure provides a sensation similar to walking barefoot.
Can you walk for a long time in them?
Yes. Many users wear their sandals for several years.
Are Nomadic sandals vegan?
Yes. They contain no animal products.
Can rope sandals be washed?
Yes. They are machine washable at 30° without spinning.
Can they be worn in water?
They are water-resistant, but it is advisable to rinse them after contact with salt water.
Conclusion: The Nomadic Spirit
Long before rope sandals became a global trend, Nomadic State of Mind already embodied a simple vision:
to create a light, durable, and free sandal.
Handmade in fair trade workshops, designed from recycled materials, and produced with a zero-waste approach, these sandals illustrate a different approach to fashion.
An approach where comfort, durability, and freedom of movement meet.
And it all started in a Volkswagen van... on the road to American hippie festivals.
