A podiatrist’s top tips for wearing closed-toe shoes all summer long without suffocating your feet
Committed to closed-toe summer shoes, even in the summer months? A podiatrist shares the best materials for combatting smelly feet, plus see our fave kicks.
A podiatrist’s top tips for wearing closed-toe shoes all summer long without suffocating your feet
Committed to closed-toe summer shoes, even in the summer months? A podiatrist shares the best materials for combatting smelly feet, plus see our fave kicks.
Every summer, my mother criticizes my commitment to closed-toed shoes, saying I have a “complex about my feet.” Well, mom, just because I don’t think my grounding digits are particularly elegant and I won’t throw down cash for routine pedicures doesn’t mean I have a foot complex. I just really prefer closed-toe shoes. To her credit, though, having a no-sandals policy can get tricky in the summertime. Right now, I’m looking at the black ballerina flats on my feet, complete with criss-crossing elastic bands constricting my circulation, just imaging the wildly smelly feet I’m going to have to deal with later. It’ll be like I’m walking around on unrefrigerated wedges of Gouda, for sure.
But the cheese doesn’t stand alone, right? I know I’m not the only person who’s also very anti-sandal, and if you keep your toes enclosed, you’ve probably encountered the same problem. Opting to stick to those shoes all season may be an honorable choice, but that doesn’t make it any less of a sweaty, stinky affair. And since no one wants to spend their time with anyone who requires a gas mask or oxygen tank when there’s a shoes-off policy, I enlisted some help for selecting non-suffocating closed-toe kicks to take you all the way back into sweater weather. The first step, it turns out, is choosing the right materials in which to walk.
“The best types of materials that allow the feet to breathe are porous fibers, such as canvas, mesh, and leather,” says podiatrist Emily Splichal, DPM. And the materials to give a hard pass on? “Avoid rubber or plastic shoes, as these trap in heat and moisture.” And in that case, I guess I won’t go full Y2K and bring back jelly sandals this summer.
My closed-toe style choices usually skew girly, impractical, and firmly in the flats-and-heels category. But increasingly, people are joining me on the closed-toe front thanks to an uprising in sneaker culture. And whether you’re opting for some neon kicks or taking grandpa sneaks for a spin, it’s really what’s inside that counts.
“You do want a breathable fabric, but I’d also suggest considering the socks that are being worn,” Dr. Splichal says. “One of my favorite is by Allbirds, which uses a breathable wool material. If you go for a nice breathable sneaker and then wear thick cotton socks, you won’t get the benefits from the sneakers. The best socks are synthetic, sweat-wicking, and woven with either copper or silver.”
Oh, and if you bought a dynamite pair of non-breathable heels for a wedding and need to combat foot stank in a pinch? Dr. Splichal recommends picking up a can of Arm and Hammer Invisible Foot Powder Spray. It’s sweat-activated and designed to stop your smelly feet from ruining the party.
To help you tackle the problem at its source, though, we have a few closed-toe-shoe selections that can get you through the summer while keeping the cheesy-smell and sweaty effect at a minimum. Check them out below:
Shop the closed-toe summer shoes
Women's Keds x Rifle Paper Co. Double Decker Garden Party $50
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission
We may not be certified sneakerheads, but we know good shoes when we see ‘em. And, at the top of our list: Cariuma sneakers.
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The footwear brand is dedicated to designing shoes in a way that’s better for people and the planet. Each sneaker is handmade in ethical factories with sustainable materials like recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and natural rubber, and for every shoe purchased, Cariuma plants two trees. Plus, the styles are pretty stinking cute, can be dressed up or down, and feature innovative advancements that ensure a lightweight, durable, perfectly broken-in fit. So, it’s no surprise that celebs like Helen Mirren, Brooke Shields, Pete Davidson, and Jon Hamm have been wearing Cariumas non-stop since its launch in 2018.
If you’re here because you searched for “Cariuma shoe reviews,” wondering what the hype is all about, we’re here to give you the 4-1-1—and to confirm that the hype is very much deserved. In the past three years alone, the eco-friendly shoe brand has launched styles like The Slip On and the IBI Knit Sneaker—both of which immediately sold out post-launch. Other popular Cariuma styles, like winter-friendly Caturi Black Suede Boots, have also been cleared off the digital shelves, amassing waitlists of thousands of interested shoppers.
Inspired to buy your own pair of unbeatably comfortable Cariuma sneaks? You’ve come to the right place. We tested a great selection of Cariuma sneakers, including the most popular OCA Low Canvas shoes, on all foot types and terrains to provide the most authentic and in-depth review so you know where to spend your dollars. Keep scrolling.
What to know about Cariuma
For those unfamiliar with the buzzy shoe brand, the sneaker company puts sustainability and quality first, without the absurd price tag. It uses ethically sourced, raw materials like bamboo, organic cotton, sugarcane, and mamona oil to create its lineup of comfy sneaks. There are several different styles to choose from for both women and men, including classic lace-up low-tops, sporty high-tops, slip-ons, and booties. Below, we’ve reviewed several of the various styles (spoiler alert: you can’t go wrong with any of them, they’re that good.)
“The first thing I noticed about the shoes was how lightweight they were, which is thanks to the soft canvas and cotton materials. As I walked, they helped propel me forward rather than dragging my feet down—something I appreciated as I passed block #5 on the way to the grocery store. They also have a narrow silhouette so you don’t have to worry about your feet looking too bulky. Plus, the low-top design is great for pairing with a skirt, dress, or whatever street style look you might be going for (they also look good with pants—so what I’m saying is, they look good with everything).
The real selling point was how and if they held up during my adventures exploring my neighborhood in New York City. Spoiler alert: They did! I was able to wear them for more than eight hours without discomfort. That’s partly because of the vegan insoles made of organic mamona oil and cork, which are cushioned with memory foam to provide arch support. The shoes have a snug fit but still give your feet room to breathe.” — Taylor Bell, Social Producer
Material: Organic cotton canvas
What makes the shoe unique:
Vulcanized sneaker
Made with rPET + organic cotton, with debossed metal aglets
Vegan insoles made of organic mamona oil and cork
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Pros:
Comfortable for long hours of wear
Memory foam insole
Comes in various colors
Breathable cotton upper and slip-resistant rubber outsole
Cons:
Narrow fit may not be great for those with wide feet
“The OCA Low Camel Suede is just one iteration of the classic OCA sneaker, and it’s one that I love for its versatility, comfort, and low maintenance (yes, even though it’s suede!). If you’re someone who wants to avoid white sneaks for practicality purposes, I’d recommend the Camel Suede since it offers a neutral footwear option for your outfit and delivers the same comfort that the OCA sneak has.
But okay, let’s talk suede: Does it get scuffed up and damaged easily? The answer is no but with a caveat: I always apply this suede shoe protection spray ($15) to all of my suede shoes before I start wearing them, and it’s helped my shoes last so much longer. The other nice thing is that since the color is a nice caramel, it hides any small marks or scuffs very easily.
Like the OCA, these are super lightweight, and they’re soft on the interior, so I’ve worn these without socks and have experienced absolutely zero irritation on my toes or the back of my heels. They don’t require a break-in period, just like other Cariuma styles. The only difference is the suede, which I think elevates any look, but I will say, if you live somewhere very rainy or muddy, you may want the leather option.” — Gina Vaynshteyn, W+G Contributor
Material: Premium suede sourced from LWG-certified Gold Rated tanneries
What makes the shoe unique:
Vulcanized sneaker
Made with rPET + organic cotton, with debossed metal aglets
Vegan insoles made of organic mamona oil and cork
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Pros:
Soft on the interior
Low maintenance (don’t get scuffed easily)
Comfortable and lightweight
Versatile style
Cons:
Run narrow; may not be great for those with wide feet
Cariuma offers a wide variety of sneakers, too: Vaynshteyn also tested the White Premium Leather Catiba Pros for several weeks, wearing them on four-mile walks and jogs with her dogs, and outings on the weekend. These particular shoes feature the Cariuma signature logo on the side, differentiating them a bit more from your standard white sneakers. Her takeaway? These shoes took no break-in time (similar to the OCA Low), were roomy (even with thick socks), and gave her the perfect amount of support she needed on a day-to-day basis. Plus, they looked cute with her outfits (a steady mix between leggings and floral maxi dresses on weekends, because Los Angeles).
They do sell out in the leather style quite quickly, but if that’s the case the suede and canvas version of the Catiba sneaker ($89) is a great alternative.
Material: Premium leather sourced from LWG-certified Gold Rated tanneries
What makes the shoe unique:
Engineered for durability, movement, and the best grip possible
“When shopping for sneakers, there are two things I look for: comfort and a style that can pair with more than a few things in my wardrobe, and the Cariuma Catiba Pro Low delivered on both counts. Upon receiving them, I put them to immediate use, walking literal miles in the shoes (mostly on pavement), and even standing in them for hours at a concert, without the creeping pain that comes after wearing uncomfortable footwear.
What I found most notable was the cork insole, which was breathable (no sweat!) and offered a cushy springiness that I thought only running sneakers could promise. It was such a pleasant surprise that I told anyone who would listen about just how comfortable they were. This is all to say, it’s true: these sneakers had no break-in period.
If anything, I wouldn’t describe them as lightweight, but they weren’t so heavy that I was dragging my feet after wearing them for an extended period of time. The upper is sturdy and simultaneously allows for some airflow, though it took some time for the suede upper to dry after I accidentally spilled a drink on them.
What’s more, comfort does not come at the sacrifice of style with these sneakers. The logo and white rubber strip add more interest to the shoe, and the color I chose (Sand) was versatile enough to pair with everything from neutrals, like white and black, and earthy-toned hues, which comprise most of my wardrobe. The simple design also seems to pair well with everything from pants to dresses—and you can bet I’ll be wearing them with shorts and skirts through the warm months.” —Danielle Calma, Commerce Writer
Material: Premium suede and organic cotton canvas upper, slip-resistant rubber sole
What makes the shoe unique:
Offers the same durability and grip as the original Catibas with more breathability
The Salvas sneaker is all white and comes with four different logo colorways. Like the rest of their styles, this sneaker doesn’t need to be broken in and is supremely comfortable all day long. Crafted from premium leather, recycled mesh lining, and a breathable cork insole, these have quickly become our W+G editors’ go-to, everyday sneakers. The sole is 100 percent slip-resistant, so if you find yourself on frictionless surfaces, you’ll have grip. Similar to Stan Smiths, these kicks are a classic (but more comfortable, in our option).
Material: Premium leather sourced from LWG-certified Gold Rated tanneries
What makes the shoe unique:
Cushioned, ankle-hugging heel collar
Fully-stitched outsole ensures durability and a longer life span
“I spent most of my teenage years stomping around in slip-on sneakers, and Cariuma’s smart and sustainable take on the style has totally won me over. The Slip-Ons have a classic, casual look that pairs well with virtually any outfit, and it’s designed with comfortable upgrades, making them a joy to wear for long hours. Take, for example, the mamona oil-based memory foam insole, which offers the perfect amount of cushion and support. And the chunky, natural rubber outsole—made using the sap of Pará rubber trees, which are ethically tapped to preserve the Brazil-native species—which is slip-resistant and supportive. They even have a handy little pull tab on the back which makes slipping them easy.” —Alexa Morales, W+G Contributor
Material: Bamboo and rPET
What makes the shoe unique:
Chunky, natural rubber outsole made using the sap of Pará rubber trees
If you don’t want to bother with tying and retying laces and instead want some easy kicks to just slide on and off, these slip-ons are the answer. They have a laid-back skater style and pair well with any casual outfit, whether you’re hitting the skate park or brunch with friends. The shoes have a suede and canvas upper with a rip-resistant toe area, and a grippy, natural rubber sole to keep you grounded.
W+G Commerce Editor, Francesca Krempa, gifted these to her dad for testing. His immediate response? “Wow, these are cool.” (Pretty impressive for a man of few words.) Here’s her full review:
“I don’t know a ton about shoes, but I know these are really comfortable,” Krempa says. “I like that I can just slip them on my feet and go—it makes kicking them on and off easy, especially in the summer when I’m barefoot most of the time anyway. The insole is impressive, too. It feels like it’s molded to my foot even after a few wears, which is nice to walk in. My only complaint is that they’re a half-size too big and I have to wear them with socks, otherwise, they feel like they might slide off.” In short, size down.
Material: Premium suede sourced from LWG-certified Gold Rated tanneries, organic cotton canvas and rubber
What makes the shoe unique:
The snug mid-foot band secures your arch at all times
“I’m skeptical when it comes to canvas sneakers because of my bunion, but I have no complaints about Cariuma’s IBI Low. The bamboo knit outer is like a bungee cord; it’s super stretchy, doesn’t irritate my bunions, and moves with my every move. Even more, it’s extremely breathable and has gotten my feet through Texas heat, which is notorious for reaching beyond 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
When it came to the cork insole, my first thoughts before putting the shoe on for the first time were, ‘How is cork going to be supportive?’ Boy, was I proven wrong. The cork was infused with memory foam to support my arches and give the oomph I need for long days on my feet. Recently, I went to a local arcade in Texas, and these kept my feet in tip-top shape while standing hours on my feet. They didn’t ache after a long night of standing.
My favorite part of the shoe is the eco-friendly thought that went behind it. What impressed me was the soft yet sturdy laces. They’re made of recycled plastics, but I couldn’t tell. They looked and felt ‘brand new’ to me. Also, the shoe is featherlight, and it doesn’t feel like I have any shoes on.” —Kayla Hui, W+G Contributor
Materials: Bamboo and rPET upper, sugarcane outsole
What makes the shoe unique:
Stretchy knit upper makes them breathable and comfortable from the get-go
While we wrote about the Caturi Winter Boots in detail here, here’s the quick download: The Caturi sneaker boots are weather and water-repellent and lined with vegan shearling to keep your feet nice and toasty. Unlike traditional, bulky boots, these give you a lot more flexibility and movement—while still keeping you warm in the snow. If you prefer the OCA style, you can get the winter version, too.
Material: Water-repellent vegan suede; vegan shearling lining, made from GRS-certified recycled materials
What makes the shoe unique:
Lined with vegan shearling to keep your feet nice and toasty
Cariuma’s sneakers range from $79 to $149, making its offerings suitable for a variety of budgets. Before shopping, consider how much you want to spend on sneakers based on how often you wear them.
Size
Every brand has its own sizing, so before buying Cariuma shoes, familiarize yourself with the label’s size chart. While many of its sneakers come in full and half sizes, the brand recommends sizing up if you’re between sizes (although this may not be true for the stretchier, IBI knit models). Other than your actual foot size, you should consider the type of socks you will wear with the shoes. For example, if you typically wear a thick sock, going up half a size might give your feet more room to breathe, allowing for better circulation. If you’re wondering, many shoppers do not wear socks with their Cariumas because of their out-of-the-box comfort; however, we recommend doing so to prevent blisters and regulate moisture control.
Your foot type
Just as every Cariuma shoe differs, so does everyone’s foot. That’s why it’s important to consider your foot type before shopping for Cariuma shoes (and any shoe, for that matter.)
For example, if you have fleet feet, you should look for sneakers that feature supportive insoles, as these will mold to your feet and relieve pain on the arches by properly distributing body weight and preventing your feet from overpronating. If you have bunions, you may want to consider a Cariuma sneaker with a wide toe box and a flexible construction to ensure that your toes have room to move around and breathe. The good news is that while many of Cariuma’s sneakers run narrow, several options cater to those with wide feet, like the Salvas. Another example of why foot type is important is that if you have plantar fasciitis, you’ll want to find a style that focuses on arch support, cushioning, and heel stability, which can be found in the styles that have the brand’s signature insole.
Style
Lastly, think about where you will wear your Cariuma sneakers or what you need them for. Suppose you’re headed to a cold destination and know you’ll be doing a lot of walking; a silhouette like the Caturi Suede Winter Boots will be a great option, as they have a cushioned sole for comfort and shearling lining for warmth. On the other hand, if you’re on the hunt for an everyday sneaker for year-round wear, you’ll want to get your hands on something like the OCA Low sneaker, as they have a sleek, classic design that will go with anything in your wardrobe and well-made construction that’s pleasant for walking or standing for long periods.
Common FAQs
Does Cariuma run big or small?
Cariuma sneakers run true to size. W+G testers have tried almost every shoe style and can confirm that the shoes fit perfectly, and don’t require a break-in period. That’s thanks to the premium canvas and leather quality of the shoe. In our experience, the IBI Low may run a little large due to the flexibility of the mesh knit upper.
Are Cariumas comfortable for walking?
Cariumas are excellent everyday walking shoes. While they won’t give you the same shock-absorption and arch support as most sports sneakers do (these aren’t gym shoes, but they do have soft memory foam insole that cradles your arches, balls, and heels), Cariumas are great if you’re active and on your feet all day, and need a good lifestyle tennis shoe to get you from point A to point B. Since Cariuma is known for its breathability and premium materials, your feet won’t easily sweat or get irritated.
Do Cariuma sneakers have arch support?
Cariuma sneakers are constructed with a soft memory foam insole, so they do have slight arch support for feet. With that said, they’re not designed for folks who need arch support insoles and might not be supportive enough for those with flat feet or fallen arches.
Can I wear Cariumas without socks?
You probably shouldn’t wear any shoes without socks to protect your feet, but we’ve tested Cariumas with and without socks and can confirm they’re high-quality enough to be worn without socks if you just need a shoe to slip on for a short period. We wouldn’t recommend going sock-less if you have plans on commuting on foot all day, since that could be a recipe for toe and heel irritation disaster.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking for a high-quality sneaker that you can wear every day (and with multiple outfits) that’s easy on your feet, these shoes are a safe bet. The only downside is that these shoes can sell fast. If you find a style you like that’s out of stock, get yourself on a waitlist, stat. They’re totally worth it.
Cariuma Alternatives
Not sold on the styles above? We found a few alternatives to the Cariuma style for you to consider:
