Shop the maker
Nomadic State of Mind
Nomadic State of Mind is a Fayetteville, North Carolina-based maker of handmade rope sandals and low-waste rope art. Founded by Chris Anderson in 1999, the company began in a 1969 Volkswagen bus and grew through outdoor music festivals, river trips and a belief that products made carefully from the beginning should last.
Handmade rope sandals for wandering feet
Nomadic State of Mind is best known for lightweight rope sandals made with durable cord and an adjustable, easygoing fit. The brand’s partly reclaimed polypropylene rope is made in North Carolina to its specifications, then skilled artisans handcraft the sandals using a process Chris began teaching within a rural Nicaraguan community more than two decades ago.
Different sandal styles offer variations in straps, footbeds and soles, including classic all-rope designs and selected styles with added soles, cork or hemp components. Review each product page for the current materials, sizes, colors and fit guidance.
Vegan footwear built around durability
The original rope sandals are vegan and cruelty free. Their colorfast cord is designed to handle everyday adventures while staying soft against the foot. Nomadic State of Mind treats durability as part of sustainability: a product that stays useful for years creates less waste than one designed for a short season.
Rope art made through the No Scraps Left Behind program
Rope art began as a practical answer to the small cord pieces left after sandal production. Instead of burning or discarding them, the team began joining the scraps into colorful circles and transforming them into rugs, bags, bottle carriers and other functional art. The company’s No Scraps Left Behind program now reuses nearly all of its rope waste while helping provide steadier work for its artisan community.
Fair trade roots and a people-first process
Chris built the company from a social work background and a commitment to fair labor. Nomadic State of Mind has worked with the same artisan community since around 2000, prioritizing safe working conditions, reliable income and long-term relationships over rapid growth. Every purchase supports a family-and-friends business in North Carolina and the skilled hands behind its footwear and rope art.
How to choose your Nomadic State of Mind sandals
- Start with the construction you prefer: classic rope, an added sole, cork footbed or hemp-accented style.
- Review the individual product page for the current size chart and available colors.
- If you are between sizes, follow the maker’s fit guidance shown on the listing.
- Choose the style that suits where you wander, from home and festivals to beaches, boats and everyday errands.
- Expect the small variations that make genuinely handmade footwear unique.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Nomadic State of Mind based?
The company’s office and shipping operation is based in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Are Nomadic State of Mind rope sandals handmade?
Yes. Skilled artisans handcraft the rope sandals, so slight variations can occur from pair to pair.
What are the classic rope sandals made from?
The classic styles use durable, partly reclaimed polypropylene cord made in North Carolina to the company’s specifications. Materials vary for cork, hemp and added-sole styles, so check the individual listing.
Are the sandals vegan?
The company identifies its footwear and products as vegan and cruelty free. Review the materials on the specific product page when choosing among different constructions.
What makes the rope art sustainable?
Many rope art pieces reuse scraps created during sandal production, keeping useful material out of the waste stream and supporting year-round artisan work.