KIZIK Shoes Review: Gimmick Or The Greatest Invention Ever? (2024)

KIZIK Shoe review: are these shoes worth the hype? Read our full KIZIK Review to see if the shoes are worth the hype.

For the record, I thought these shoes were a complete and other gimmick. After checking out other Kizik Shoe Reviews, I decided to get my hands (or feet, I should say), on a pair. Here’s what I found out.

Note: I bought these shoes myself and was not compensated for this review.

For those of us who are lazy and don’t like to tie our shoes, or just looking for a great hands-free shoes, Kizik is a godsend.

Slip ons have been around for a while now, but some people still prefer lace-ups – both the style AND the ability to tighten (or loosen) fit.

The problem with lace-ups is that they’re more time-consuming to put on than slip-ons which makes them impractical for the “I’m always running late” crowd.

That’s who this shoe review is for.

Not just for lazy people – the hands free shoes

Kizik hypes their shoes as “shoes for lazy people,” but that’s not giving these shoes enough credit. Kizik Shoes are not just for lazy people; they are also for people who need a little help putting on shoes – people with any medical conditions, have trouble reaching down (these would have been perfect when my wife was pregnant) – not just lazy people.

That’s just how the shoes are marketed.

These are the best hands-free shoes we’ve tested. It doesn’t matter if you don’t want to use your hands, or if you can’t use your hands, these shoes simply rock.

It’s no wonder then that we were all excited when Kizik Shoes came out because it meant you could get the convenience of slip-on shoes without sacrificing style or function.

Kizik Review: What is the big idea with slip-on shoes?

I first came across Kizik in watching one of those crazy Youtube ads that start at the beginning of all your favorite YouTube videos. The commercial was long: like 3 minutes long. But it was entertaining and got my curious: are the Kizik shoes any good?

If a company could make an advertisem*nt about a simple feature, slip on shoes that actually work (and also have laces, so you can tie the laces, too): we were curious. Are Kizik Shoes any good? Or are they just a giant gimmick?

The Big Idea: A revolutionary Kizik hands free heel

The magic is actually invisible. It’s all built-in to the heel.

How does the Kizik Shoe work?

As your foot pushes past, the heel folds down to accommodate you — and then snaps back upright behind your foot thanks to a titanium spring inside.

In other words, Kiziks shoes allow for quick on-and-off like loafers but are snug once they’re in place. Your shoes fit perfect: just like they were regular lace-up shoes. Yup. All the luxury, all the hands-free functionality you want.

Meet Foot Activated Shoe Technology: FAST

KIZIK shoes feature what the company calls F.A.S.T.—Foot Activated Shoe Technology—design.

Doing a little internet digging, it appears that F.A.S.T is actually owned by HandsFree Labs. HandsFree Labs actually owns KIZIK and has received investments from Nike.

So, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this sort of technology in Nike Shoes and more very shortly.

But don’t worry, your KIZIK shoe isn’t made from some cheap rubber band in the back. KIZIK shoes actually get handsfree functionality thanks to aerospace-grade titanium. Pretty incredible, right?!

Simply put: Life’s too short to spend them tying and untying shoes.

Why do KIZIK shoes have laces then?

That’s actually pretty easy: to make them look like normal tie shoes. While you don’t need to tie the shoe to wear them, they make them look more like normal sneakers.

KIZIK Shoes Review: What did we think?

To be honest: we were super shocked the first time we put the KIZIK Shoes on. Not only were we free from tying laces, but the shoes were incredibly comfortable!

These sneakers were super lightweight and felt amazing. There’s no way it felt like there was titanium inside the shoe.

I attempted to slide my first foot in and WOOP! It went right in and fit perfectly. I thought, “this might be a fluke, I need to try again.” Nope, I attempted to slide my other foot in and WOOP, once again, it fits like a glove.

What about taking them off? Just simply slide your foot out and hold the back of your shoe with your other foot. It’s that simple. Just slide your foot in and slide your foot out. It was pretty stinking remarkable, actually!

Wearing the shoes, you would have no idea that they were anything special. The shoes were just incredibly comfortable. They are only slightly heavier than Allbirds or Suavs Shoes (read our Suavs Review and Allbirds Review), which is REALLY amazing.

The Madrid Eco-Knit shoe that we tried was also super-breathable. We love that it helps with stinky feet!

The rubber soles were super lightweight and felt like they would last a long time.

KIZIK Reviews: What did we not like?

There were a couple of things we did not like about the KIZIK Shoes we tried.

Kizik Shoes Review Not machine washable

We’ve been spoiled with our Allbirds, Rothy’s, and Suavs (read our SUAVS Shoes Review, Rothy’s Review and Allbirds Review). We love to machine-wash our sneakers. It’s so nice to not worry about having to spot clean them. We can simply toss them in the washer and hang dry. That’s awesome.

Sadly, KIZIK shoes are not explicitly Machine Washable, according to Kizik Shoes. It would be AMAZING if Allbirds adopted FAST!

Note: Even though the shoes are not designed to be machine washable, we’ve washed our KIZIK shoes several times without a problem. The biggest issue is that the sole got dirty quick, especially without socks.

KIZIK Shoes: Probably need to wear socks

I believe that Kizik shoes were designed to be worn wearing socks. They were not designed to be worn WITHOUT SOCKS and if you boil it down, that’s probably the only issue that is keeping me from buying a ton of pairs of KIZIK!

Why do I say they are supposed to be worn without socks? I couldn’t find any official documentation that says that, but every promotion video/photo that KIZIK has features someone with socks.

I also believe that it’s because they are NOT machine washable and that would make them extra stinky, especially during the summer months (check out our full Best Summer Shoes for Men and everything Hari Mari).

Arch Support

Other folks online claimed these shoes lacked excellent arch support – and many said they were unable to wear them as a result. We didn’t have that problem, but we also did no go for long walks with these shoes on.

Kiziks Reviews: What Others Have to Say

Every shoe tells a story but when it comes to Kizik, it’s like an open book with pages filled with commendations.

The audience out there seems to echo our sentiment: these shoes are a game changer, especially for folks facing challenges in the shoe-donning department. Whether it’s a medical condition, the beautiful journey of pregnancy, or just the sweet allure of convenience, Kizik appears to have kicked open the right door.

Not just for the lazy

A common thread in many Kiziks reviews is the ease with which these shoes can be slipped on or off, no hands required. For individuals with back issues, arthritis, or other medical conditions that make the traditional bend-and-tie routine a dreaded chore, Kizik shoes have emerged as the knights in shining armor. The love doesn’t end there. Expecting moms, whose belly tenants make reaching down to their toes a comical challenge, have found solace in the hands-free, bend-free luxury that Kizik offers.

Even if you’re just someone who cherishes the extra minutes saved (who doesn’t?) or detests the halt-and-tie disruption in the morning rush, Kizik has your back.

The other Kizik reviews paint a picture of more than just a shoe; it’s a blend of freedom, comfort, and practicality. It’s not just about walking in these shoes; it’s about the ease of getting into them that has won hearts.

So, if you’ve been playing shoe-lace tug of war every morning or have been on a hunt for a pair that respects your condition, the crowd has spoken: Kizik shoes are a worthy companion for your feet. And hey, who wouldn’t appreciate a little less bending and a little more breezing through the morning routine?

KIZIK Shoe Styles

I’ll give it to KIZIK, their shoes could have been much uglier. But they aren’t that bad-looking. In fact, I would say they are above average. I’d give them a B.

KIZIK offers a wide variety of styles and you can find one that you might like.

Best-selling styles: Men

The Lima, Athens, and Madrid are the top men’s styles in Kizik’s lineup, each with its own unique features.

The Lima is all about comfort, featuring Rabbit Foam® outsoles that provide substantial rebound. The shoe’s knit upper is extra breathable, making it feel airy and light on your feet. It also boasts enhanced ankle padding and a roomy toe box, making it a go-to for running errands all day.

The Athens is a versatile choice that can adapt to various settings, from trails to the office. It’s equipped with a spring-back heel and Kizik’s signature Cage. The extra Rabbit Foam® on the outsole gives your heel a slight lift and provides added cushioning for your entire foot.

A new design, Kizik describes as, “Your ultimate destination shoe. It’s on-trend with a sleek, retro look, and it’s comfy enough to wear all day, anywhere in the world (or in life).”

Last but not least, the Madrid is the eco-conscious pick of the bunch. It’s crafted with an environmentally friendly knit upper made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. The shoe features a four-way stretch, ensuring breathability and putting an end to sweaty feet. Dubbed “Eco-Knit,” this material makes the Madrid a sustainable yet comfortable option.

Best Selling Styles: Women

What about kizik shoes for women? They also offer many unique styles for women, too.

The Athens, Lima, and Vegas are the crown jewels of Kizik’s women’s collection, each offering a unique blend of comfort and style. The Athens is a versatile all-rounder, featuring a spring-back heel and Kizik’s signature Cage. With extra Rabbit Foam® on the outsole, this shoe provides a slight lift to your heel and cushioning for your entire foot. Whether you’re lounging at home, hitting the trails, or spending a day at the office, the Athens has got you covered.

Next up is the Lima, a shoe that screams comfort from every angle. It comes with Rabbit Foam® outsoles that offer substantial rebound, making it ideal for those on-the-go days. The knit upper is extra breathable, giving the shoe an airy, lightweight feel. And let’s not forget about the enhanced ankle padding and spacious toe box, which make running errands a breeze.

The first Chelsea boot you can simply step into. No tugging, no struggling. The Toronto tailors to your tastes all season long, and it’s rugged enough to keep up with anything the cooler weather brings.

Last but not least, the Vegas brings a touch of classic elegance to the lineup. Made with a premium, full-grain leather upper, this shoe is comfortable right out of the box—no break-in period required. The Rabbit Foam® outsoles add an extra layer of cushioning, making it a versatile choice for any setting, be it at home, the office, or a night out on the town.

Want some nicer-looking shoes? Check out our Amberjack Review and our Wolf and Shepherd Review.

KIZIK Sizing: What to do?

I like to wear all of my shoes loose. If I was wearing a properly fitting shoe, I would probably wear a 9.5, although most of my shoes are a 10 because I like them loose.

Size up a half size larger

While KIZIK’s website says that shoes run true to size, most reviews on their site mention that they run a little small. I’d advise you to size up a half size larger to get the best fit.

That will make sure you have the perfect pair, even if you have wide feet.

Kizik vs. Zeba: Stepping Up the Comparison

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and compare Kizik and Zeba shoes. We’re talking about two brands that are like the superheroes of the shoe world – swooping in to save the day for anyone who’s ever thought, “Bending down to put on shoes? In this economy?” So, let’s break it down:

The Similarities: More Than Just a Shoe-In

1. Ease of Use: Both Kizik and Zeba are like the magicians of the shoe world. They’ve got this trick up their sleeve (or should we say heel?) where the back of the shoe collapses and pops back up. It’s like a dream come true for anyone who’s ever struggled to bend down or for those with certain medical conditions that make the whole shoe-wearing saga a bit of a challenge.
2. Comfort and Support: Walking on clouds? Almost. Both brands have really put their thinking caps on when it comes to comfort. We’re talking cushioning that feels like a hug for your feet and arch support that says, “Hey, I got you,” with every step.
3. Variety is the Spice of Life: Whether you’re into sneakers that scream “I’m going to the gym” (even if you’re not) or something a bit more “I could totally wear this to a casual Friday,” both Kizik and Zeba have got you covered. Variety? Check!

The Differences: Where They Part Ways

1. The Look: Here’s where things get interesting. Zeba shoes are like that super practical friend who always has a Swiss Army knife ready. They’ve got a bit of a clinical, therapeutic vibe – think function over fashion. Kizik, on the other hand, is like the cool cousin who knows all the latest trends. They’ve managed to blend functionality with a style that could turn heads. For the fashion-conscious, this could be the deal-maker.
2. Brand Recognition: Zeba’s been around the block a few times. They’re like the wise old sage in the adaptive footwear market. Kizik, while maybe not as well-known, is like the new kid on the block who’s quickly making friends. They might not have the same level of recognition yet, but they’re definitely on the up-and-up.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Choosing between Kizik and Zeba is like picking between chocolate and vanilla – it all comes down to what makes your taste buds (or in this case, your feet) happy. If you’re all about ease of use and need something that’s medically accommodating, Zeba could be your foot’s new best friend. But, if you’re looking to strut down the street (or just to the coffee shop) with a bit of flair and don’t want to compromise on style, Kizik might just be your jam.

At the end of the day, the best shoe is the one that fits your life, your style, and your needs. So, lace up (or, you know, don’t) and step into the world with the shoes that make you feel like the best version of you! 🚶‍♂️👟🌈

KIZIK Shoes Review: Say goodbye to lace up shoes?

The final verdict for KIZIK Shoes in this case, and you might find it a little bit odd, actually.

Remember what I said about KIZIK shoes above? What didn’t we like?

Not machine washable. Not designed to be worn without socks. Just OK styles.

If you are the type of person that wants to go sockless every day, that’s just about 3 strikes.

I actually would put the deciding factor on if you should buy KIZIK Shoes on one small factor, seemingly stupid factor: do you wear socks. If you don’t like to wear socks with your shoes, then I’d probably pass on KIZIK. If you do wear socks (or at least open to wearing some socks – check out BOMBAS and our Bombas Review), then Kiziks could be the right sneaker brand for you.

This is even more true if you want to say goodbye to shoelaces forever (well, not shoelaces, but tying shoelaces).

If you hate socks, with a passion, as we do, then you might want to pass and take a look at another shoe brand like Allbirds or Rothy’s.

We thought KIZIK would be a one-trick pony and we were pleasantly surprised they turned out to be a lot more in the giant footwear game. I just hope this great technology goes to other footwear brands and it looks like it just might be coming to your next pair of sneakers or sandals.

That’s pretty sweet.

Want another pair of great shoes? Check out our Men’s Rothy’s Review and our new Allbirds vs. Rothy’s Guide.

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