With over a century of shoemaking experience, Bundgaard is one of Scandinavia's oldest children's footwear brands, known for its carefully considered approach to natural movement and durable everyday design.
Founded in Denmark and shaped by generations of family involvement, Bundgaard continues to create footwear that supports the way children's feet move, grow, and function, without unnecessary restriction.
A Danish Shoemaking Legacy Since 1904
Bundgaard's story begins in Esbjerg, Denmark, where Thorvald Emil Bundgaard took ownership of a small shoe factory in 1904. Initially producing adult footwear, the direction of the company changed in the 1920s when Thorvald's son, Thorkild, struggled to find well-fitting, durable shoes for his own children.
Recognising a clear gap in the market, the family shifted their focus to designing shoes specifically for children, with comfort, durability and fit at the centre of every decision. At a time when children's footwear was rarely given specialist attention, Bundgaard stood apart by applying the same standards of craftsmanship and quality used in adult shoemaking to smaller, growing feet.
This early commitment laid the foundation for Bundgaard's long-standing reputation as a specialist in children's footwear, a reputation that continues to shape the brand today.
Focused on Fit and Foot Health
By the mid 20th century, Bundgaard shoes had become a familiar sight in Danish households, valued for their durability and comfort. Through the 1950s and 1960s, the brand established itself across Scandinavia as a trusted name for children's footwear.
Throughout the years, Bundgaard's philosophy has remained simple and clear: shoes should support the natural shape and movement of the foot and work with the way that children move naturally.
Designed to Support Natural Movement
Bundgaard shoes are designed to work for your child. Flexible soles allow feet to bend and move freely, while wide toe boxes give toes space to spread and stabilise. Structure is added only where needed to provide stability without unnecessary stiffness.
Lightweight construction helps reduce fatigue, making the shoes comfortable for everyday wear. Breathable, high quality materials are used throughout the range to support a healthy foot climate, particularly important for active kids and all-day play.
Responsible Materials and Ethical Production
Bundgaard places strong emphasis on responsible material sourcing and production. As members of the Leather Working Group, they ensure that all leathers are sourced from tanneries committed to improved environmental practices.
Their wellington boots are made from natural rubber and are vegan-friendly, making them waterproof without synthetic compromises. Their focus on longevity supports more mindful consumption, aligning quality with environmental responsibility.
What's new for 2026?
In 2024, Bundgaard celebrated 120 years of shoemaking, a significant milestone built on consistency, adaptability, and purpose. The brand continues to evolve, revisiting much-loved classic styles, giving them fresh updates with improved materials, refined fits, and modern construction techniques.
From improved fastening systems to more durable finishes in high-wear areas, Bundgaard's 2026 updates focus on real world use. These small but meaningful changes are designed to make shoes easier to wear, easier to style, and better suited to daily life.
Why We Love Bundgaard at Happy Little Soles
Bundgaard's values align naturally with our own. Their commitment to foot-shaped design and sustainable quality reflects our belief that children's shoes should support healthy movement from the very beginning.
Bundgaard's wellies have become a firm favourite, not just with customers, but amongst the parents at HLS. You're very likely to see our own little ones in Bundgaard wellies!
You can find our whole collection of Bundgaard barefoot shoes for children here.
Our Advice Hub is full of help, hacks, and tips to ensure you get the right fit, and our Customer Service Team are on hand if you need a little extra guidance.
If something isn't quite right with your purchase, pop the parcel back in the post to us for free. You can find all the details in our Free Returns Policy.
