I spent the weekend out in the desert, looking at art, eating yummy Indian food, and exploring dirt roads. On the way out, I wore my new El Naturalista Iggdrasil mary janes, fully intending to change to something more practical after the art-viewing was done.

But they were so comfortable, and looked so at home against the desert soil, that I couldn’t bring myself to do it!

I’d been wondering about these shoes for a long time. I first discovered El Naturalista in the window of a little store in Sonora, California, and have wanted to get my hands on a pair ever since. Then Meg’s review over at Go Naturale made me certain I had to have some. Then, through a series of minor miracles, not one but two pairs – red, and green, of course – made their way to me recently.

I would have to say these are every bit as comfortable as the Dansko Marcelle, and have a similar fit. I’m a 36 in Danskos, and these fit perfectly in a 36 too. They were comfortable right out of the box – no hot spots. no blisters, no break-in period. I was worried that with my high arches the Velcro strap wouldn’t work – often the straps are not long enough to cover the Velcro – but these are nice and roomy, and the Velcro on the strap aligns nicely with the Velcro below.

I’ve worn them nearly every day since I got them. The rubber sole is grippy – one of my requirements – even in the rain (yes, it rained a little here!). They look great with both pants and skirts. And I’m really looking forward to wearing them with fun socks if the weather ever cooperates.

(I think they look pretty lovely against the blue desert sky, too.)

Like the Dansko Marcelle, these are a five-star shoe. These are also a shoe you can feel good about buying – El Naturalista has a commitment to environmental sensitivity.

Comfort:

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