NFL Star Teams with Vivobarefoot to Promote Natural Foot Movement

British footwear brand Vivobarefoot is forging a unique partnership with NFL star Mack Hollins, wide receiver for the New England Patriots, to champion the benefits of natural movement. This collaboration aims to challenge conventional athletic footwear norms and reconnect individuals with the ground, aligning with Vivobarefoot’s core mission.

Hollins, affectionately known as a ‘barefoot national treasure’, has long been a proponent of barefoot living, frequently incorporating barefoot training and walking into his routine to enhance foot strength, balance, and overall connection to the earth. This makes him a natural fit for Vivobarefoot, a brand dedicated to minimalist footwear that allows for natural foot function.

The partnership stems from Hollins’ personal experience with injury and his subsequent discovery of the profound benefits of prioritizing foot health. “As an athlete, I have spent majority of my career in some of the most restrictive footwear,” Hollins stated. “My journey with barefoot living stemmed from an injury early in my career. But the benefits I have achieved since living this way have been immeasurable. I know how much of a game changer foot health is to success on and off the field. I want athletes of all ages to feel comfortable to 'Free The Feet' and partnering with Vivo is allowing me to do just that.”

This collaboration is a significant step, particularly within the NFL, a sport traditionally dominated by heavily cushioned and restrictive footwear. The initiative will focus on two key areas: educating the public on the science behind natural movement and the potential drawbacks of conventional footwear, and developing a limited-edition product line – the Vivobarefoot x Mack Hollins collection – slated for release in 2026.

The upcoming product line will embody the concept of “athletic freedom,” designed for both peak performance and everyday wear. Vivobarefoot CEO and co-founder, Galahad Clark, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Partnering with athletes like Mack is incredibly meaningful to us because they remind the world of a powerful truth: even at the highest level of performance, the body thrives on natural movement.”

Clark further highlighted the tangible benefits of barefoot movement, citing research indicating a 60% increase in foot strength after just six months. He explained that stronger feet contribute to improved posture, sensation, and mobility, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being. The collaboration aims to demonstrate that optimal performance, freedom of movement, and long-term health are all rooted in a strong and natural connection to the ground.