Hey there, fellow shoe lover! If you‘re anything like me, you‘re always on the prowl for footwear that‘s equal parts stylish, comfortable, and ethically made. Well, I‘ve got a little secret to share with you: Koi Footwear is the brand that checks all those boxes and then some.
I first discovered Koi a few years ago when I was searching for the perfect pair of platform boots. As someone who tries to avoid animal products in my fashion choices, I was thrilled to learn that Koi is 100% vegan. But I‘ll admit, I was a little skeptical about whether their shoes would live up to the hype in terms of quality and comfort.
Fast forward to today, and I‘m proud to say that Koi has become one of my absolute favorite footwear brands. I‘ve owned several pairs of their shoes over the years, and I‘m constantly impressed by the eye-catching designs, sturdy construction, and surprising wearability. Seriously, I can dance all night in my Koi platforms without any pain or blisters!
But enough about me – let‘s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes Koi Footwear so special. In this in-depth review, I‘ll be sharing everything you need to know about the brand, from their unique origin story to their most popular styles. I‘ve also scoured the internet for customer reviews, expert opinions, and data to give you a comprehensive look at how Koi stacks up against other footwear options.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite shoe brand. Trust me, your feet (and your conscience) will thank you!
The Lowdown on Koi Footwear
Before we get into the specific products, let‘s talk a bit about the brand behind them. Koi Footwear was founded in 2016 by a free-spirited entrepreneur known simply as the "bean god". According to their website, the bean god‘s mission was to create a footwear company that empowered people to express their individuality without compromising their values.
From the beginning, Koi has been all about pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. They‘re not afraid to experiment with unconventional materials, bold colors, and quirky design elements. But they also prioritize ethical and sustainable production, which is a rarity in the fast fashion world.
All of Koi‘s shoes and accessories are made from 100% vegan, cruelty-free materials like high-quality faux leather, canvas, and recycled plastic. They partner with factories that adhere to strict labor and environmental standards, so you can feel good about where your purchase is coming from.
One of the things I love most about Koi is how transparent they are as a brand. Their "About Us" page features photos and bios of their tight-knit team, including everyone‘s zodiac signs (which is just plain fun). They also share behind-the-scenes glimpses of their design process and photoshoots on social media, so you really feel like you‘re part of the Koi community.
Speaking of community, Koi has amassed quite the cult following over the years. They‘ve got over 400k followers on Instagram, and their posts regularly rack up thousands of likes and comments. Celebrities like Bella Thorne, Kali Uchis, and Rico Nasty have all been spotted rocking Koi shoes on stage and in music videos.
But Koi isn‘t just for the rich and famous – their price point is surprisingly accessible given the quality of their products. Most of their shoes fall in the $70 to $150 range, which is comparable to or even a bit lower than other vegan footwear brands like Dr. Martens and Brave Gentleman.
The Stats on Vegan and Alternative Footwear
Now, I know what some of you might be thinking: "Vegan shoes? Are those really a thing?" Trust me, I get it. When most people hear the word "vegan," they probably think of bland tofu burgers and hippie-dippy fashion. But times are changing, my friends.
According to a recent report by Grand View Research, the global vegan footwear market size was valued at USD 39.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2021 to 2028. That‘s a whole lot of people saying "yes" to cruelty-free kicks!
But it‘s not just vegans and animal lovers who are driving this trend. Consumers across the board are becoming more conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases. A study by Nielsen found that 73% of global consumers are willing to change their consumption habits to reduce their impact on the environment.
For many shoppers, that means seeking out products made from sustainable, eco-friendly materials. And when it comes to shoes, vegan alternatives like recycled plastic, hemp, and plant-based leathers are becoming increasingly popular.
Of course, the alternative footwear market isn‘t just about sustainability – it‘s also about style. Brands like Koi, T.U.K., and YRU have built a loyal following by offering unique, eye-catching designs that you won‘t find at your average department store.
So whether you‘re a die-hard vegan, an eco-warrior, or just someone who likes to stand out from the crowd, there‘s never been a better time to explore the world of alternative footwear.
The Best of Koi Footwear
Okay, now that we‘ve covered the basics of Koi as a brand and the larger vegan footwear market, let‘s talk products. As I mentioned earlier, I‘ve tried quite a few Koi shoes over the years, and I‘ve got some favorites that I think you‘ll love too.
1. Sai Platforms in Slime Green
These babies are the epitome of Koi‘s signature style: bold, playful, and totally eye-catching. The Sai Platforms feature a chunky 3.5-inch platform sole, a square toe, and a stretchy neoprene upper in the most vibrant shade of green you‘ve ever seen.
I wore these out to a music festival last summer and got so many compliments from strangers. They‘re surprisingly lightweight and easy to walk in, thanks to the squishy foam insole and grippy rubber outsole. And the neoprene material molds to your foot like a glove, so you don‘t have to worry about any pinching or rubbing.
2. Lani Combat Boots in Black Hologram
If you‘re looking for a boot that‘s equal parts edgy and glamorous, look no further than the Lani Combat Boots. These ankle boots have a classic combat silhouette with a lace-up front and chunky lug sole. But what really sets them apart is the iridescent vegan leather upper, which shifts from black to rainbow hues depending on the light.
I‘ve worn these boots to everything from concerts to job interviews, and they never fail to make me feel like a total rockstar. They‘re super sturdy and well-made, with reinforced stitching and a cushioned insole for all-day comfort. And the best part? They‘re totally rain-proof, so you can stomp through puddles without worry.
3. Kitty Chaos Sneakers in Pink
Okay, I know these might not be everyone‘s cup of tea, but hear me out: the Kitty Chaos Sneakers are the ultimate conversation starter. These low-top sneakers have a pastel pink canvas upper with the most adorable embroidered cat face on the toe.
I wore these to a friend‘s baby shower last month and got so many "awws" and "where did you get those?!" comments. They‘re surprisingly versatile – I‘ve paired them with everything from sundresses to mom jeans. And the memory foam insole and flexible rubber outsole make them super comfy for running errands or chasing after kids.
4. Juju Jelly Sandals in Clear Glitter
If you‘re a ‘90s baby like me, you probably had a pair of jelly sandals growing up. Well, Koi has taken that nostalgic style and given it a grown-up twist with their Juju Jelly Sandals. These slip-on sandals have a clear PVC upper flecked with glitter and a molded footbed for added comfort.
I bought these on a whim for a beach vacation last year and ended up wearing them everywhere. They‘re perfect for pool days, beach walks, or just running to the corner store. And because they‘re made from PVC, they‘re totally waterproof and easy to clean – just rinse them off in the sink and let them air dry.
5. T.U.K. Mondo Creepers in Red Plaid
Okay, I know these aren‘t technically a Koi product, but I had to include them because they‘re just so dang cool. Koi carries a curated selection of shoes from other alternative brands, including the iconic British label T.U.K.
The Mondo Creepers are a classic T.U.K. style with a chunky platform sole, a round toe, and an upper made from red plaid fabric. I love how they add a punk rock edge to any outfit, whether you pair them with ripped jeans or a flowy dress.
I will say that these run a bit narrow, so if you have wider feet like me, you might want to size up or opt for a different style. But once you break them in, they‘re super comfy and durable – I‘ve had mine for over a year and they still look brand new.
What Do Other Koi Customers Have to Say?
Of course, you don‘t have to just take my word for it – there are plenty of other Koi customers out there singing the brand‘s praises. I scoured the internet for reviews and found some pretty compelling testimonials:
"I am IN LOVE with my new Koi shoes! I got the Sai Platforms in Slime Green and they are even more beautiful in person. The quality is amazing and they are so comfortable. I can‘t wait to wear them out and show them off!" – Sarah L., Trustpilot
"I‘ve been wearing Koi shoes for a few years now and I‘m never disappointed. They always have the coolest, most unique designs and the quality is top-notch. I especially love their boots – I have the Lani Combat Boots in three different colors!" – Mike D., Reddit
"I was a little skeptical about ordering shoes online, but Koi made the process so easy. Their sizing chart was accurate and the shoes arrived quickly. I got the Kitty Chaos Sneakers and they are even cuter in person. I get so many compliments on them!" – Jessica R., Facebook
"As someone with plantar fasciitis, I‘m always on the hunt for shoes that are both stylish and supportive. Koi‘s T.U.K. Mondo Creepers have been a game-changer for me. The platform sole absorbs shock and the insole has just the right amount of cushioning. I can wear them all day without any pain!" – Mark S., Instagram
Of course, no brand is perfect, and I did find a few less-than-stellar reviews from customers who had issues with sizing or quality control. But overall, the vast majority of Koi customers seem to be very happy with their purchases.
How to Style Your Koi Shoes
Now that you‘re (hopefully) convinced to give Koi Footwear a try, you might be wondering how to incorporate these bold styles into your everyday wardrobe. Fear not – I‘ve got some styling tips to help you rock your new kicks with confidence!
1. Keep it simple
If you‘re new to wearing statement shoes, the easiest way to make them work is to pair them with simple, understated pieces. Try wearing your Sai Platforms or Lani Combat Boots with a plain black t-shirt dress and denim jacket for a cool, effortless look.
2. Play with texture and pattern
One of the great things about Koi shoes is how they can add visual interest to an otherwise basic outfit. Try pairing your Kitty Chaos Sneakers with a floral sundress or your Mondo Creepers with a plaid mini skirt for a fun, mixed-print vibe.
3. Go monochromatic
If you really want to make your shoes the star of the show, try building a monochromatic outfit around them. Pair your Juju Jelly Sandals with a clear vinyl raincoat and matching clear umbrella for a ‘90s-inspired rainy day look, or wear your Sai Platforms with a neon green sweatshirt and biker shorts for a bold, sporty ensemble.
4. Accessorize accordingly
When you‘re wearing statement shoes, it‘s important to keep your accessories simple and understated. Opt for minimal jewelry and a plain leather or canvas bag to let your shoes do the talking. That said, don‘t be afraid to have fun with your socks – a pair of glittery ankle socks or colorful tights can add an extra pop of personality to any shoe look.
The Bottom Line
Phew, that was a lot of information to take in! But I hope this in-depth review has given you a better sense of what Koi Footwear is all about and why I‘m such a fan of the brand.
To recap, here are some of the key reasons why I think Koi is worth checking out:
- They offer a wide range of unique, eye-catching designs that you won‘t find anywhere else
- All of their products are 100% vegan and ethically made
- The quality and comfort of their shoes is top-notch, especially for the price point
- They have a strong community of loyal customers who rave about the brand
- They make it easy to express your individuality and have fun with fashion
Of course, no brand is perfect, and Koi might not be the right fit for everyone. If you have very wide or narrow feet, you might have trouble finding a style that works for you. And if you prefer more traditional or minimalist designs, Koi‘s bold aesthetic might not be your cup of tea.
But if you‘re someone who loves to stand out from the crowd and make a statement with your footwear, I highly recommend giving Koi a try. Their shoes are the perfect way to add a pop of personality to any outfit, whether you‘re dressing up for a special occasion or just running errands around town.
So go ahead – take a chance on a pair of slime green platforms or holographic combat boots. Your feet (and your Instagram feed) will thank you. And who knows? You might just become a lifelong Koi convert like me.
Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!
