A Letter from Natalie, Founder of Jibs

"I started Jibs with a spark — the kind that won’t let you sit still.

It began with a slip-on in Brazil and a craving for movement, freedom, and expression. Not just in style, but in life. I wanted shoes that could keep up — with airport sprints and playground hangs, creative surges and couch cuddles. And I wanted to feel good in them. Not just cute. Not just comfy. Both.

Jibs was built for that space in-between — for real life. For the mischief, the multitasking, the moments we don’t post but remember. For women (and men!) who want to show up fully as themselves, whether they’re crushing a meeting, chasing a toddler, or chasing a dream.

So here we are. A brand born from instinct, shaped by stories, and led by love — for movement, comfort, individuality, and that magic when form meets function.

Thanks for walking this journey with me. I’m so glad you’re here."

Cheers,
Natalie
Founder & Chief Jibs-erella


Behind Every Pair of Jibs

Our job is fun, but we take footwear seriously. Ever wonder how Jibs manage to feel this soft, this flexible, and still show up ready for anything your day throws at you?

Where It All Began: Brazil

Jibs are handmade in Brazil by footwear specialists who take their craft—and their impact—seriously. Each pair is made using an eco-conscious process that uses fewer chemicals, less water, and biodegradable components. All of it’s been tested and certified in Spain, ensuring we meet the highest environmental standards.

What makes it even more personal? The materials come from local, family-owned businesses. They care deeply about quality, sustainability, and creating a better future through better shoes.

Our Biodegradable Leather

We’re proud to use a proprietary leather that’s 98% biodegradable and composts in under 200 days. (Standard leather? About 30% biodegradable and takes up to 50 years.)

Here’s how we do it:

  • We start with genuine Brazilian leather, a byproduct of the meat industry.

  • It’s then treated with a non-toxic, innovative blend that lets the leather relax and biodegrade faster—creating way less long-term waste.

  • On top of that, the tanning process cuts water usage significantly compared to traditional chrome leather.

Bonus: Our tannery is a certified member of the Leather Working Group (LWG)—the gold standard in global leather sustainability—and one of just six sustainability certifications recognized by Zappos' Goods for Good program.

The Iconic Diamond Perforation

There’s magic in the diamond—seriously. From our very first prototype, this was the feature we knew we’d keep forever.

Our custom perforation is:

  • Breathable (goodbye sweaty feet)

  • Odor-resistant

  • Body-temperature responsive (warm when it’s cold, cool when it’s hot)

  • And functionally genius—it allows stretch exactly where your foot needs it, and nowhere it doesn’t.

Natural Cork Insole

We’re on our feet all day, just like you. So we made sure what you stand on is both comfy and natural.

We spent months researching the right insole material and landed on this combo:

  • A soft, moisture-wicking natural cork base

  • Cushioned memory foam layer for day-long wear

  • “Neutral” arch support (removable so you can use your own orthotics if needed)

The result: odor-free, ultra-comfy, walk-all-day support.

The Fit

Jibs are designed to move with you. Thanks to our diamond perforations and unlined Brazilian leather, they stretch to match your unique foot shape.

They intentionally fit slightly large at first—that’s on purpose. After a few wears, they’ll mold to you.

Not sure which size to grab? Our sizing guide has you covered.

Want to add your personal founder note or Natalie-style tribute next? I can help weave that in seamlessly!