At the heart of Nomadic State of Mind is a commitment to preserving both the planet and the people who call it home. Founded by Chris Anderson, the company was born from a desire to address waste and its environmental impact through thoughtful design. Having started 25 years ago in the late 1990s, Nomadic State of Mind remained true to its mission of making sustainability stylish by crafting durable, comfortable, and eco-friendly sandals.

The sandals are machine washable, which makes it super easy to wash and wear. Made from recycled materials, these sandals are vegan, colourfast, and designed to last. The company’s journey began in a 1969 VW van, which served as Chris’s home, office, and factory. This van embodied the “nomadic state of mind,” a concept that still resonates today–whether you’re walking, driving, exploring the web, or venturing into new territories. The word “nomadic” comes from the Latin term for “wanderer,” and they promise to always “keep it real.”

They began teaching a small out-of-work coffee community in Nicaragua how to craft sandals using rope made from recycled materials. Rope scraps are upcycled into rope accessories, including bags, key rings, homeware accessories and rope art. 

HOW IT’S MADE

Nomadic State of Mind’s dedication to responsible manufacturing and creating sustainable employment opportunities in Nicaragua forms the core of every decision. Each pair of sandals is carefully handcrafted by local artisans in Nicaragua, upholding the brand’s commitment to empowering the community. Additionally, the company ensures that all workers receive a fair, living wage, embracing the philosophy that quality craftsmanship from the start leads to long-lasting products.

The rope used in these sandals is handmade in North Carolina from partly reclaimed polypropylene cord, chosen for its durability and strength. As one of the strongest ropes available, it is colourfast, machine washable and built to last. By focusing on durability, the company prioritises sustainability–because making something that lasts is the most environmentally responsible choice. These sandals are 100% vegan, with no animal products used in the production process.

SUSTAINABILITY

Made for wearing wherever life takes you, Nomadic State of Mind sandals are fully sustainable and socially responsible. The rope used in these sandals is made in North Carolina from recycled polypropylene cord, which is vegan, machine washable, durable and considered the most consistent option for creating quality sandals.

Reducing waste is a core value at Nomadic State of Mind. Any scraps from the sandal production are repurposed into a variety of rope accessories, including handbags, beach bags, key rings, rugs, yoga mats, bottle holders, picnic baskets, dog leashes, rope wall art, and hammocks. This commitment ensures that nothing goes to waste. These sandals are built to last, with a fully traceable supply chain that benefits the planet and its people.

WANDERLUST TO WELLNESS

Nomadic State of Mind is made for wandering feet. Comfortable, lightweight, easy to carry, floats in water and water resistant, these sandals are the ultimate summer travel companion. 

Known for their versatility, they can be worn from the beach to the bar, in the mountains, in the city, on a safari, and at music festivals and retreats. Often seen on the feet of the stylist set, they are also loved by yogis and those who practice wellness, meditation, and self-healing. The sandals are ideal for feeling grounded and connected to the Earth.

Whether you’re drawn to them for their design or the ethos behind the brand, the sandals are for those who appreciate craftsmanship-they fit any style, any time, any occasion. The original six-strap sandal, known as the JC, is available in a variety of colours from camel to purple. The other styles are the Kyma, Lounger, Full Nelson, Toe Joe and the Romano.

They’ve been worn by international celebrities such as Ralph Lauren, Jennifer Anniston, Selma Blair and Gisele Bundchen. Locally, they’re worn and adored by South African influencers including Homba Mazaleni, Shiela Ho, Li-Chi Pan, Veerta Motiani, Seth Shezi, Keratilwe Lekalakala, Ricci Kalish Liedeman, Juliana Vasconcelos, Jordan Alexander and Jenni Button.

Featured in Vogue, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Glamour, among others. It’s time to take on the nomadic lifestyle for the ultimate summer ease.