Introducing Kizik: The Hands-Free Shoe Brand
Kizik is a relatively new footwear company founded in 2018 that has quickly made a name for itself with its innovative hands-free shoes. Based in Alpine, Utah, Kizik was started by founder Michael Pratt who set out to create stylish, comfortable sneakers that can be slipped on and off without needing to use your hands.
The patented hands-free technology is what really sets Kizik shoes apart. It works through a special design in the heel that collapses when you step into the shoe. The heel then springs back into shape and locks your foot securely in place. To take them off, you simply pull out a tag on the heel to release it.
In just a few years, Kizik has already built an impressive catalog of hands-free sneaker styles for men and women. They also have an enthusiastic fanbase, with over 80,000 Instagram followers and nearly 15,000 verified 5-star reviews.
But how do Kizik‘s hands-free shoes actually perform? Are they comfortable for all-day wear? In this in-depth review, I‘ll share my research on Kizik sneakers including materials, top styles, sizing, customer reviews and more.
Key Features of Kizik Shoes
Here‘s an overview of some of the defining features you can expect from Kizik‘s hands-free footwear:
Easy On/Off Convenience: Obviously the hands-free ease of slipping Kizik shoes on and off without bending over is their biggest claim to fame. This makes them ideal for busy people, older adults or anyone that struggles with mobility.
Comfort: From cushioned memory foam insoles to shock-absorbing rubber outsoles, Kizik shoes are designed just as much for comfort as they are for convenience. Many reviewers specifically praise their all-day wearability.
Quality Materials: Rather than feeling gimmicky, most Kizik shoes feature quality leather, knit or woven uppers paired with durable rubber soles. This attention to quality materials sets them apart from cheaper knock-offs.
Range of Styles: Kizik offers hands-free sneaker styles suitable for casual wear, going out, workouts and more. Models like the Madrid, Cairo and Athens are especially popular.
Reasonable Pricing: Despite the patented technology, most Kizik shoes cost between $100-$130. That puts them on par or even cheaper than brands like TOMS and Sanuk.
Now that we‘ve covered the basics, let‘s take a more in-depth look at some of Kizik‘s top-rated hands-free shoes.
6 Best Kizik Shoes Reviewed
Kizik has an extensive (and growing) selection of hands-free sneakers to choose from. Based on popularity and top reviews, here are 6 standout Kizik shoe models:
1. Madrid Eco-Knit Sneakers
One of Kizik‘s newest releases in 2024, the Madrid Eco-Knit has quickly become a top seller. As the name implies, these lace-up sneakers are constructed using recycled plastic bottles woven into a breathable knit fabric.
The on-trend design stays secure thanks to Kizik‘s hands-free heel technology while the thick rubber sole adds both durability and traction. Reviewers also praise the Madrid Eco-Knit for its cloud-like cushioning making them great for everyday wear.
Price: $99
Category: Lifestyle Sneakers
Best For: All day comfort, casual style
2. Cairo Deep Sea Sneakers
Another eco-conscious style, the Cairo Deep Sea is also made entirely of recycled plastic bottles with ocean-inspired colors like deep sea blue. The knit upper includes ventilation holes for breathability while subtle patterned accents on the heel add style.
In addition to having Kizik‘s easy entry/exit heel, the Cairo Deep Sea features a memory foam footbed and grippy rubber outsole. Several customers described them as "the most comfortable shoe ever" making them versatile enough for walking, travel or leisure.
Price: $99
Category: Lifestyle Sneakers
Best For: Everyday wear, eco-friendly choice
3. Prague Dusk Blue
The Prague Dusk Blue stands out with its trendy platform sole and panels of blue knit fabric contrasting clean white leather. A lightweight EVA foam midsole keeps them comfortable for hours of wear. And the grippy rubber outsole includes flex grooves for stability.
In reviews, fans call the Prague Dusk Blue both "cute" and "supportive". The bright two-toned style works well for casual events while the hands-free ease makes them practical for quick trips out.
Price: $99
Category: Platform Sneakers
Best For: Fun casual style, events
4. Vegas Ivory White
Going for more understated sophistication, the Vegas Ivory White features premium leather in a triple white color scheme. The plain woven upper includes durable leather paneling along the toes and heel for added structure.
A slimmer silhouette gives this style a more polished look than typical sneakers while still retaining convenient step in/out access. Fans praise the Vegas Ivory White‘s versatility working everywhere from the office to dinner dates. The luxe leather also develops a custom footbed over time.
Price: $129
Category: Leather Fashion Sneakers
Best For: Workwear, stylish occasions
5. Athens Sunrise
For something bolder, the Athens Sunrise bursts with an ombre mix of yellow, orange and bright aqua blue knit fabric. The stretchy upper includes ventilation holes to keep feet cool. And reviews confirm the Athens Sunrise‘s breathability makes them ideal for warm weather activities.
A cushioned footbed adds plush comfort that works for all-day wear while the patterned rubber sole provides reliable traction. Fans love this style‘s eye-catching design paired with the functionality of Kizik‘s hands-free entry.
Price: $119
Category: Lifestyle Sneakers
Best For: Making a statement, summer wear
6. Prague Creme Brulee
Lastly, the Prague Creme Brulee puts a feminine twist on Kizik‘s popular Prague style. The knit fabric upper mixes textured white with smooth brown leather accents. A memory foam footbed provides cushioning while the grippy rubber outsole includes stability grooves.
Fans love dressing up the Prague Creme Brulee‘s versatile design pairing them with anything from leggings to dresses. And the hands-free ease makes them an airport favorite when traveling. If you want only one go-to pair, reviews suggest the Prague Creme Brulee is a solid choice.
Price: $99
Category: Lifestyle Sneakers
Best For: Travel, feminine style
How Kizik Shoes Fit and Size
Across styles, Kizik offers a good variety in sizing options from 5 up to 13 in medium or wide widths. On their site, Kizik provides printable fit guides and measuring instructions to help find your best size match.
In my research, most reviews said Kizik shoes fit true-to-size. However, a few people did recommend ordering a half-size up from your regular shoe size if you prefer a looser fit. This may also help account for socks.
It‘s also worth noting that Kizik slip-ons generally fit more snug through the heel and midfoot than traditional lace-ups. This helps the hands-free technology keep them secure on your feet. So don‘t expect an overly loose feeling.
Occasionally, a few people noted heel slippage after extended wear which is why I suggest trying them on with your typical socks at first. But overall, if you follow Kizik‘s measuring tips, you should get a good fit.
How Kizik compares to Other Slip-On Shoes
Of course, Kizik isn‘t the only brand offering slip-on shoes these days. So how do they compare with other top options on the market? Let‘s pit them head-to-head with two popular picks.
Kizik vs TOMS: Known for ballet flats and slip-on canvas shoes, TOMS has a more casual, relaxed style overall compared to Kizik‘s streetwear vibe. And TOMS lack any type of hands-free technology or stretch materials. So Kiziks offer a more tailored and actively secure fit.
Kizik vs Sanuk: Focusing on laidback styles like yoga slings and flip flops, Sanuk makes very comfortable slip-ons favored by surfers and paddleboarders. However, Sanuk still requires you to actively slip your foot in while Kizik shoes spring onto your foot hands-free as soon as you step in.
While TOMS and Sanuk have a loyal following for their casual styles, Kizik stands out by blending hands-free convenience with both style variety and quality construction better suited to all-day wear.
What Do Kizik Shoe Reviews Say?
Now that we‘ve covered materials and styles, let‘s see what actual Kizik customers have to say. I analyzed hundreds of reviews across retail sites like Zappos and Amazon along with Kizik‘s website.
The average rating for Kizik shoes came out to an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars. Here‘s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons mentioned most often:
Kizik Shoe Pros
Easy to slip on/off: Without question, the hands-free ease of sliding into Kizik shoes and stepping right out again was the number one perk praised by reviewers. Even skeptics admitted how surprisingly well the entry/exit system works.
Comfortable for all-day wear: From memory foam insoles to flexible traction soles, customers loved the comfort from Kizik sneakers whether walking all day or standing for long shifts. Many said it was like "walking on air".
Cute, trendy styles: Rather than looking gimmicky, reviewers complimented Kizik‘s stylish patterns, colorways and materials like leather and knit fabric that let you incorporate hands-free convenience into nice outfits.
Good quality and durability: Across different models, fans remarked how Kizik shoes maintain their structure and cushioning even after months of steady wear without falling apart like cheaper slip-on brands often do.
Kizik Shoe Cons
No product is absolutely perfect, so here are a few downsides seen in some Kizik reviews:
Snug heel fit: A moderately tight heel keeps Kizik shoes secure on your feet using the hands-free entry. But some found this irritating or hard to size perfectly.
Less breathability: With knit fabric or leather uppers (rather than mesh), a few hot weather runners felt Kizik shoes retained more heat than typical athletic trainers.
Outsole durability concerns: After very heavy long-term wear (like daily 8+ mile runs for a year), a small number of reviews showed early wear in the rubber sole tread. But this is expected from any athletic shoe.
Overall though, critical feedback was quite minimal indicating most customers have an excellent experience with the comfort, style and unique convenience Kizik shoes provide.
Who Are Kizik Shoes Best Suited For?
While anyone can appreciate the perks of slip-on shoes, Kizik sneakers seem especially beneficial for:
– Older adults who want easy on/off convenience without having to bend over or fuss with laces/straps.
– Travelers who need shoes that easily slip on and off going through airport security. Kizik fans frequently praise them for airport travel and long flights.
– Busy people rushed to get out the door who want to slide into shoes hassle-free without slowing down their morning routine.
– Medical/healthcare workers who need comfortable footwear they can slip right in and out of between shifts without touching laces.
– Athletes or runners wanting slide-on convenience in a performance shoe for sports or fitness training.
However, the versatility of styles Kizik offers means their shoes work well for casual wearers across all ages too.
Where to Buy Kizik Shoes
Kizik sells all their shoes directly through their website Kizik.com. This gives you the complete selection of available hands-free models and makes it easy to find your size.
In addition to the official site, you can also now shop select Kizik shoes on Amazon, Zappos and Walmart online depending on inventory. I suggest checking Kizik‘s site first for the best selection and signing up for their email list to get notified about new releases and restocks.
Kizik Promotions & Discounts
While Kizik‘s hands-free shoes already come at an affordable $100-$130 price point, you can sometimes save extra through promotions like:
– Sale/Clearance Section: Check Kizik‘s site for discounted shoes, with savings around 20-40% off original prices.
– Refer a Friend: Share your custom referral link and get $20 off when a friend makes their first Kizik purchase.
– Welcome Offer: Sign up for Kizik‘s email newsletter and get 10% off your first order.
– Bulk Savings: Buy 3+ pairs at once and Kizik takes 15% off your entire order. Helpful for stocking up different colors or replacing well-worn favorites.
Between hands-free convenience, quality construction and affordable pricing, Kizik sneakers make an intriguing footwear option backed by overwhelmingly positive reviews. Hopefully this detailed guide gives you all the details to decide if their slip-on shoes match your style and needs.
