Oofos sandals promise exceptional comfort and recovery benefits for active individuals, but with a premium price tag, are they really worth it? As an avid runner and fitness enthusiast with plantar fasciitis, I was intrigued yet skeptical.
After extensive research comparing Oofos models to competitors, analyzing reviews, and testing a pair myself, I can confidently provide an expert breakdown of the biggest pros, cons and everything in between about Oofos‘ most popular sandal styles. Keep reading for the unfiltered truth before you buy.
How Oofos Sandals are Different
Oofos was founded in 2011 by footwear veterans who sought to create the ultimate recovery shoe using proprietary foam technology. Their Oofoam material claims to absorb 37% more impact than traditional foams to reduce stress on feet, knees and back.
Along with exceptional cushioning, Oofos sandals offer key benefits like:
- Custom arch support
- Moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials
- Machine washable convenience
- Stylish, elevated designs unlike clunky orthopedic brands
While the technology and materials do set Oofos apart in meaningful ways, it comes at a cost. Most sandal styles range from $60-$80, significantly pricier than big box brands like Nike and Adidas.
So are the purported benefits worth shelling out the extra cash? I compared Oofos‘ 5 most popular sandals head-to-head with competitors across key metrics. Here‘s what I discovered:
OOlala vs. Reef Leather Smoothy
The OOlala sandal is Oofos‘ sleek, feminine flip flop made for all-day wear. With vegan leather straps and variety of stylish patterns, it ticks the fashion box while promising comfort.
Up against Reef‘s Leather Smoothy, similarities include leather materials and contoured arch support. However, the Reef lags behind in cushioning with its standard EVA foam footbed.
Cushioning & Comfort: OOlala‘s OOfoam absorbs far more shock
Durability: Both feature durable leather straps
Style: OOlala offers more elevated, versatile looks
Value: OOlala justifies the $10 premium with proprietary comfort technology
Verdict: Splurging on the OOlala is warranted for the unparalleled cushioning, arch support and upscale design. The Reef is fine for lightweight wear, but serious comfort-seekers will appreciate Oofos‘ thoughtful engineering.
OOlala Luxe vs. Venus Cork Flip Flop
The OOlala Luxe sandal amps up the dazzle factor with metallic leather straps and unique textures like snake and glitter prints. At $65, it‘s Oofos‘ most expensive (and posh) flip flop.
Up against Venus‘ Cork Flip Flop, both share high quality leather straps and contoured footbeds. The Venus sandal is partially made from sustainable cork, but can‘t compete in the comfort department.
Cushioning & Comfort: OOlala Luxe far exceeds with revolutionary OOfoam
Sustainability: Venus wins with eco-friendly cork and vegan materials
Style: OOlala Luxe offers trend-forward finishes and color variety
Value: You get what you pay for in terms of advanced comfort technology
Verdict: The OOlala Luxe warrants the investment for those who prioritize uncompromising comfort and stand-out style. The Venus is a great ethical choice, but can‘t match Oofos for cushioning.
OOahh Sport Flex vs. Under Armour Ignite VII
The OOahh Sport Flex sandal appeals to athletic men seeking comfort recovery slides with sporty style. It stacks up closely against Under Armour‘s Ignite VII sandal offering advanced tech to elevate performance.
The Ignite features innovative HOVR cushioning and durable leather, but has a bulkier shape without the sleek flex grooves of Oofos‘ design.
Cushioning & Comfort: Both excel here with tech focused on responsiveness
Traction & Grip: Ignite VII has the edge for hardcore training
Style: OOahh Sport Flex more versatile for wearing beyond the gym
Value: On par for price considering quality and technology
Verdict: The Ignite VII beats out Oofos for hardcore training with superior traction, but the OOahh Sport Flex is the more well-rounded choice for all-day wear across activities. Pick Oofos for lightweight comfort and Under Armour for hardcore performance.
OOriginal vs. Vionic Kirra
The OOriginal is Oofos‘ original (no pun intended) mass-appealing sandal packing their game changing OOfoam in a simple thong design. Vionic‘s Kirra sandal is similarly focused on comfort and orthopedic support.
Both are affordably priced under $100 and feature a classic look and molded footbed design. However, the Kirra lacks the plush cushioning of the OOriginal.
Cushioning & Comfort: OOriginal takes the cake by far
Support: Comparable arch and metatarsal support
Style: OOriginal more streamlined and recreational
Value: OOriginal warrants the small premium
Verdict: If you don‘t mind the sporty, casual look, the OOriginal beats out the Vionic Kirra for unmatched softness and shock absorption. Those wanting next-level orthopedic correction may prefer Vionic or Birkenstock.
Are Oofos Sandals Worth the Investment?
Considering the thoughtful engineering and noticeable difference in comfort compared to competitors, I believe Oofos sandals are absolutely worth investing in, specifically for:
- Athletes and those on feet all day seeking recovery and pain relief benefits
- Active individuals and weekend warriors looking to protect joints
- Travelers and adventure-seekers needing comfortable, versatile sandals
- People seeking both orthopedic support and stylish looks in sandals
However, those simply seeking basic recreational sandals may be just as satisfied saving money with mainstream brands like Nike and Adidas.
Oofos‘ biggest drawbacks are lack of whole and half sizes, limited traction for hardcore training, and potential quality issues like sole separation after less than a year in some cases.
Still, if you‘re willing to pay $60-$80 for sandals, Oofos are an excellent choice that ticks all the boxes, providing well-engineered comfort that noticeably reduces joint and muscle soreness for people like nurses, runners and travelers constantly on the go.
Oofos Sandals Buying Guide
Sold on the recovery benefits but not sure where to start with Oofos‘ array of sandal styles? Here’s a handy buying guide covering sizing, construction, best uses and style recommendations.
Sizing
Oofos sandals fit true-to-size but unfortunately only come in whole sizes. If you fall between, size up to the nearest number or consider trying both sizes if ordering online.
They also come in standard and wide widths to suit narrow to wide feet. Measure your foot against their size chart to determine your ideal fit.
Ideal Uses
- OOlala: All-day wear for travel, adventures, everyday
- OOlala Luxe: Fashionable adventures from the beach to bars
- OOahh Sport Flex: Gym, recovery sports like yoga, pilates
- OOriginal: Versatile athletic and leisure wear, water activities
Construction
All Oofos sandals feature the proprietary OOfoam footbed material crafted for superior cushioning and recovery. Other defining features include:
- Textured, non-slip outsoles
- Arch support
- Moisture-wicking lining
- Easy-clean water and stain resistance
- Machine washable
Style Recommendations
- Women should consider the feminine OOlala styles or the sleek OOahh Sport Flex in bright colors
- Men will like the sporty OOahh Sport Flex or simple OOriginal
- Metallic and snake prints in the Luxe collection inject glamour
- Stick to black, gray or navy shades for versatile neutral pairs
The Last Word
Oofos sandals live up to the hype, delivering advanced comfort technology in recovery-focused yet stylish designs. While the price tag can feel steep compared to basic recreational sandals, you get what you pay for with OOfoams‘ unparalleled cushioning properties.
If you constantly battle sore, tired feet or joint pain that holds you back, Oofos are an investment that pays dividends in pain relief and mobility for athletes, nurses, travelers and more. Just be sure to order the right size and set realistic expectations for longevity.
