Origins
Plae was founded in California by a team with deep roots in performance footwear, including designers who had previously worked with some of the world’s leading sports brands. Their goal was simple but powerful. To create shoes that support natural movement while still being practical, durable and ready for real everyday life.
Inspired by the freedom of being outdoors, Plae is built around the idea that feet should move, flex and grow without restriction. Every detail, from the wide toe box that allows toes to spread naturally, to the flexible soles that mirror barefoot movement, has been carefully designed with this intention.
Craftsmanship and materials are equally important. Plae shoes are lightweight yet hard wearing, made with breathable fabrics, flexible rubber soles and removable insoles to help improve fit and longevity. Many styles are machine washable, making them as practical as they are comfortable.
Sustainability is part of the thinking too, with a focus on creating long lasting products rather than fast fashion. These are shoes designed to be worn, loved and passed down.
A phrase that sums Plae up beautifully is their belief that shoes should “let feet be feet.” It is a simple idea, but one that runs through everything they do.
What They Do
Plae designs flexible, lightweight footwear for both kids and adults, with a strong focus on natural movement and everyday comfort. Their shoes are made for active lifestyles, whether that means playgrounds, parks, holidays, or simply getting from A to B with ease.
They strike a rare balance between performance and lifestyle. Sporty enough to support movement, yet stylish and simple enough for daily wear.
Plae at HLS
At Happy Little Soles, our Plae collection focuses on their fantastic range of everyday trainers and shoes that work brilliantly as all-rounders, from school wear to weekend adventures. All are lightweight, really flexible and adjustable over the foot. There's also a range of replacement tabs for the kids to customise their shoes, from flowers to football.
With adjustable velcro straps, breathable uppers and practical, washable designs, Plae are easy to wear barefoot shoes that help kids move and play naturally. Colour palettes tend to be fresh and wearable, with that signature relaxed, outdoor feel Plae does so well.
Plae for School
Size and Fit
Plae are known for their foot-shaped fit that suits more narrow to medium width feet, so if your little ones are finding wide fit shoes a bit loose and flappy, Plae are a great choice. The toe box is generous, allowing toes to spread naturally, while the adjustable straps make it easy to get a secure fit.
In terms of sizing, Plae generally runs true to size. The removable insoles are a helpful feature, allowing you to check length accurately and also giving a little flexibility if you need to fine tune the fit.
If you are between sizes or unsure, we usually recommend measuring and checking against our size guides, as getting that initial fit right makes all the difference.
Why We Love Them
Plae has been a popular choice amongst the Happy Little Soles kids, mine even grew up wearing them, and they were always the shoes the kids reached for. They are incredibly comfortable, easy to wear and able to keep up with everything a busy day throws at them.
We love how lightweight and flexible they feel, how easy they are to get on and off, and how well they hold up over time. But more than anything, we love what they represent. Freedom to move, explore and enjoy being outdoors.
More Help
We’ve created a space filled with advice to help you get the very best from your barefoot shoe shopping. From detailed sizing guides, resources and blogs, to tips on making the most of our delivery options, you’ll find it all in The Advice Hub.
If you’d like a little more tailored support, do get in touch. Our five star Customer Service team love talking all things barefoot and are always happy to help.
We hope you love your purchase, but if something isn’t quite right, we offer free returns. For full details, please see our Returns Policy.
