Are the models CONTACT C2 and CONTACT S2 suitable for rain and/or snow?

In general, when developing all our models, we focus on using materials and methods that provide a breathable and thermally insulating climate for the feet. Greater waterproofing compromises breathability, yet the Contact C2 and S2 possess some features that resist wet entering into the shoes.

• The first such feature is the hydrophobic leathers used for the upper parts, requiring regular care with waterproofing agents.
• In wet conditions, the vulcanized rubber outsole prevents wet from entering the shoes and has a wall around the foot that extends 2 cm above the ground.
• With shoes constructed as described above, users have completely different experiences compared to shoes made of synthetic materials with a waterproof membrane, which we do not use in Proalp barefoot shoes. They allow air and moisture to pass out of the shoe, and natural materials provide thermal insulation. It’s important to note the significance of sock materials: quality natural materials like wool complement the mentioned features successfully.

Regarding wearing these shoes in snow, we’d like to convey the following: Many people use Contact S2 for winter hiking and report their waterproofness, and in practice, they perform excellently in moderate snowy conditions. However, we cannot provide a factory guarantee of waterproofness as we do not systematically test them for this purpose. Given that our company is located at the foot of mountains and we live in the mountains our entire lives, we add that for snowy mountain slopes, shoes that are stronger in torsion than any flexible barefoot shoes are more suitable. When developing the S2, we had in mind:

• Barefoot ankle boots with excellent traction on demanding terrains.
• Designed to securely grip the feet while walking on uneven terrains; we pay significant attention to the shape of the lasts and upper parts. A significant advantage of the Contact S2 is the Velcro strap around the ankles, which stabilizes the foot in the shoes on uneven terrains, especially during downhill descents.
• A pleasant airy climate in the shoes allowing air and moisture to pass out while regulating temperature – warm in winter and not overheating in summer.

Regarding the Contact C2 model:

we created it for urban wear in the winter, autumn, and spring seasons. It’s possible to order them with a very warm woolen lining or with a classic lining, besides you receive insoles made of natural sheep wool and jute.