Tropicfeel broke onto the scene with the Monsoon, a crowdfunded travel shoe that smashed Kickstarter records in 2018. We’re talking nearly $2.5 million raised. Not bad for a first try, right? Its follow-up, the Canyon, raked in another $2.3 million the very next year. These aren’t just big numbers; they’re proof that people are clamoring for shoes that can handle city strolls, trail hikes, and a spontaneous swim—all without looking like you’ve got bricks strapped to your feet.

Tropicfeel doesn’t just want to make travel easier; it wants to make it greener. The brand uses recycled materials, including plastic bottles, in its products. And while plenty of companies toss around buzzwords like “eco-friendly,” Tropicfeel keeps it legit with transparent production processes. It’s refreshing to see a brand that’s genuinely trying to cut down waste instead of just cashing in on the sustainability trend.

Tropicfeel makes more than just shoes. They’ve moved into travel backpacks and apparel, all designed with the same “do-it-all” attitude as their footwear. Think of them as the friends who always have what you forgot to pack. Whether it’s a compact bag that doubles as a carry-on or a lightweight jacket that folds into its own pocket, their products are engineered for efficiency.

While Tropicfeel started online, it’s found a physical home, too, with stores in Barcelona and Madrid. It’s a smart move, giving travelers a chance to try before they buy. There’s something reassuring about slipping your foot into a shoe and knowing it can go from cobblestone streets to jungle treks without having to bring an extra pair of shoes.

In 2023, Tropicfeel secured a Series A funding round worth $2.13 million, proving that investors are on board with their vision. That money is fueling their expansion into new markets and giving them the freedom to keep innovating. It’s one thing to make a splash on Kickstarter; it’s another to keep the momentum going five years down the line. Tropicfeel is managing both, and it’s not showing signs of slowing.

Tropicfeel is changing how you think about travel gear. It’s not about stuffing your suitcase with options—it’s about picking items that can adapt as fast as your itinerary does. Shoes that handle a rainy day hike and a sunny café hop? Bags that pack small but hold big?

That’s Tropicfeel’s promise, and so far, it’s delivering. 

See our favorite Tropicfeel shoes for work and business travel.