In the early ’90s, when I was about to graduate from kindergarten, there was a test that every kid in my class needed to pass before we could spend the summer by the pool pretending to be fairies. fish: We have to tie our shoelaces perfectly in front of our kindergarten teacher. I passed, a proud and brilliant student of rabbit-ear technique, and spent the summer running around in my lace kicks. (When I’m not playing mermaids, of course.)
Fast forward to today, long after I learned how to lace my sneakers. While I can still tie my own shoelaces, not everyone can. Be it trying to reach your baby’s growing belly or the limitations of mobility, bending over and lacing up sneakers isn’t necessarily easy or inclusive.
Enter the Kizik Sneakers, the easiest, hands-free sneakers you’ll ever put your feet on. Thanks to their amazing laceless construction, you can put on and take off without tying (and untying) the laces — and without damaging the heel. Plus, they’re stylish, comfortable, have a breathable knit upper, and don’t require an awkward, blistering break-in period. You can’t ask for more in a pair of sneakers.
How exactly do Kizik sneakers work? Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Step Up Footcare in New York City, explains that it’s all down to the heel. The heel of these shoes is designed with a flexible plastic cage that can help you slip on without pulling or tying the laces. “The original aspect of the Kizik shoe is that the technology embedded in the sole of the shoe returns to its original position when you put it on,” she says. “Cage technology uses a hard but flexible plastic to regain the shape of the shoe once it is put on.”
But related story
Imagine it this way: Inside the heel is a rubber band in the shape of a cross. (Some Kizik designs have a cross hatch on the outside of the shoe, so you can see it in action!) When you step into the sneakers, the bands compress and then pop back into place, no. never sink or damage the heel. This enhances stability by using a supportive material around the back of the heel bone, a benefit most flexible skates don’t have, says Dr. Lobkova.
When I first slipped on — and yes, I do slip — in my Kizik Lima ($109) sneakers, I was really impressed with how easy they were to get on and off. Don’t bend over? No laces? No broken heels? No, no, and no. They feel completely at ease right out of the box, which, to me, is impressive. I can go through a period of failure with any shoe, even if they’re made of feathers. That wasn’t the case with the Kiziks, so I immediately took them on a long, leisurely walk around the neighborhood. I did the same the next day, and again the next day.
Although I wear Kizik sneakers for convenience and comfort, their hands-free design makes more sense for people with mobility issues. Anyone with back pain or arthritis can benefit from Kizik’s design, including pregnant women. People who work on their feet for long hours, like nurses and cooks, will also appreciate Kiziks’ cushions. Plus, think how easy it would be for them to get in and out of airport security. No more holding TSA lines!
Lobkova also recommends Kiziks for children for the safety of their little feet. “I think these are good shoes for kids because they actually have a heel counter while being a skate,” she says. “They’re snug and snug, unlike other loosely fitted flip-flops.”
My only criticism, if I have to come up with something: If your feet are arched, be careful. My arch is average in every way, but when I first put on the Kiziks, it felt like there wasn’t enough support. While this doesn’t hinder my comfort level from wearing them for everyday activities, it does give me pause before tossing them into a run. Dr. Lobkova agrees. “I would avoid Kiziks for high-impact exercises because they don’t provide enough midsole support for activities like running or jumping,” she says.
All in all, the Kizik sneakers are a new staple in my sneaker collection. I will reach for them — without bending over — every day from now on, as they combine high-end style with functional functionality, an ideal combination for all things fashion-related. .
Shop more Kizik sneakers here
Kizik, Athens
Available sizes: 6-13, with half size, two widths, available in 15 colors.
If you’re looking for a great pair of sneakers that will fit every need, look no further than Athens. It features the brand’s signature hands-free cage that’s easy to step in, with no bends or notch required. Plus, it features an exceptional shock-absorbing outsole that withstands hard surfaces and rough terrain, along with a washable sockliner and breathable knit upper to keep feet cool and comfortable. dry.
Color Pick is also available on Amazon.
Kizik, Madrid Eco-Knit – $99.00
Available sizes: 6-13, with half size, two widths, four colors.
All the great stuff Kizik is known for, made only with a sustainable top crafted from recycled plastic bottles. In addition to being eco-friendly, that knit is breathable and comfortable, designed with 4-way stretch that can move as you please.
Color Pick is also available on Amazon.
Prague – $109.00
Available sizes: 6-13, with half size, two widths, seven colors.
For a more casual pair of sneakers, head to Prague. The durable shoe takes a more casual look and swaps out the knit for a canvas upper, lifted with suede details. They go easy with jeans, leggings, maxi dresses and skirts, and feel so heavenly.
Color Pick is also available on Amazon.
Vegas – $127.00
Available sizes: 6-13, with half size, two widths, six colors.
Sleek and stylish, these leather stones will elevate any outfit. Whether it’s running errands, grabbing an after-work drink or walking the dog, these flip-flops will bring a bit of spring to your walk…literally.
Color Pick is also available on Amazon.
Want to be the first to hear about the latest (and biggest) SHOP product sales, custom collections, discounts, etc.? Sign up to have information delivered straight to your inbox.
Our editors select these products independently. Purchases through our links can earn Good + Good commissions.
