Koio Sneakers Review: Comfort, Style, and Sustainability All in One

Sneakers are now the ultimate day-to-night footwear, taking you from the office to happy hour and everywhere in between. But not all shoes are created equal, as Koio, the Italian sneakers brand that everyone is talking about and one of our favourite footwear brands for minimalist luxury sneakers for men and women, exemplifies. Even if you don't possess a pair of Koio Sneakers, you've most likely seen them on Instagram. 

Koio footwear is created in Brooklyn, New York, but is totally handcrafted in the Italian province of Le Marche. In reality, the firm works with the same artisan manufacturers as top-tier brands like Chanel and Hermes. However, the prices are not haute couture. Because of the brand's direct-to-consumer method, you can get a pair of Koio shoes for a fraction of the price without sacrificing quality. 

Koio Sneakers Review

We'll go over the three classy styles of Koio in this review. The Capri is a traditional white trainer that is both luxury and casual. The Metro is athletic and friendly, making it excellent for people who are always on the go. And the Primo, an ultra-cool high-top that can be dressed up or down according on the occasion.

Koio Capri Capri in Triple White, $295

The Capri is Koio's timeless and trend-proof white trainer that every wardrobe requires—a unisex style that will appeal to both men and women.

Materials and Crafting

The Capri is cow leather, not Vitello calf leather as Koio claims. However, the leather has the same qualities as calf leather without the ethical concerns some purchasers may have with it.

Split- and abrasion-resistant Margom outsoles extend the Capri's life. The upper is bonded and sewn to the outsole, reinforcing stress spots, however this makes resoling difficult. Waxed cotton laces are durable. 

Before wearing your Koio Capri Triple White, treat them with leather protectant, condition them monthly, and cover any scuffs with white shoe cream.

Design

The Koio Capri is the ideal minimalist white trainer, with a clean-lined and streamlined design that embodies classic versatility. It looks as good as it feels on the foot, and the simple design is the polar opposite of clunky. 

The leather will age beautifully if properly cared for, and we like how the branding is kept to a minimum. 

Fit, Comfort, Sizing

First, the Margom outsole flexes with your foot. Open-cell polyurethane in the removable insole provides shock absorption and a longer bounce. Leather collar and tongue linings prevent blisters. The sneaker collar has subtle padding for support and comfort. Finally, a suede heel counter prevents slipping.

If you're between sizes, Koio doesn't do half sizes, so go down half a size. Check the Koio size chart to decide whether to size up or down. Once you get the right size, the fit is almost perfect from the start with minimal break-in (and no leather squeaks).

Koio Metro in Antique White, $$137 $275 (50% Off)

The Metro is a shoe that is designed to appeal to both men and women who are looking for footwear that is not only practical but also on the cutting edge of fashion.

Materials and Crafting 

Koio shoes and packaging are top-notch. Sneakers come with a box and shoe bag, enhancing the brand's customer service. A shoe tree can reduce creasing, but the full-grain Italian leather is high-quality from the start. 

The shoe is Stroble-constructed. The lightweight, breathable cotton-terry is stitched onto the open bottom after the upper is made, creating a sock-like structure. Before attaching the upper to the outsole, the last—the three-dimensional foot mold—is slipped inside to ensure a proper fit. 

Strobel-constructed shoes are more athletic, with a sock-like membrane that secures your foot without boards like the Koio Capri or Primo. The Metro's Margom sole is bouncy and high-quality, like the Capri and Primo leather trainers. Foam tongues prevent laces from rubbing your foot. Waxed laces and double stitching in high-stress areas prevent rips.

Design

The Metro comes in Antique White, a slightly warmer neutral than the Capri that looks great with dark clothing. If you want something more rustic (and stain-resistant), it's also available in Mocha Brown. 

The vibe is sporty and slightly retro, while remaining distinctly and charmingly Italian. The hand-painted edges, for example, indicate that this is a high-end trainer.

Fit, Comfort, Sizing

As with other Koio shoes, the Metro's cushioned sole makes it feel like you're walking on clouds. 
The shoe feels sturdy without being clunky, and we like how it comes up slightly higher on the ankle than the Capri, adding to the sporty silhouette. If you're between sizes, go half a size up because these trainers are slim.

Koio Primo In Pebble, $207 $345 (40% off)

The very first design that Koio ever created is still one of the brand's most popular styles; it's a high-top trainer that is both laid-back and refined, and it has a thoroughly modern vibe. Both men and women can make use of it.

Materials and Crafting

Koio trainers never use cheap plastic-coated leather. Italian pebble-grain leather, tumbled and buffeted, makes the Primo sporty. Italian leather lining makes Koio feel soft on feet. The Margom sole can withstand frequent use. Waxed laces last and a removable insole cushions and fits. 

The Primo has stronger eyelets than the Capri. The Primo, like the other Koio shoes we've featured, is made in Le Marche, Italy, including the shoe box, ensuring quality.

Design

The Primo is stunning, like all Koio trainers. High tops instantly improve any outfit. The Primo is both elegant and casual, making it a perfect addition to your daily uniform. 

This minimalist trainer has only a tongue logo and is perfect for women who want a sporty look with a summer dress.

Fit, Comfort, Sizing

These kicks are extremely snug and cushioned, making them ideal for those who are constantly on the move. Made by Italian artisans who understand anatomy, our Primos felt almost custom-designed for our feet. The ankle-length top is also padded for additional support. 

However, we believe it is important to consider stretch when selecting a size. The more you wear these trainers, the softer and more comfortable they will become.

Are Koio Sneakers Worth Buying?

Answer is YES! Koio offers high-quality leather trainers that are both stylish and comfortable. The Capri, Metro, and Primo designs are timeless and versatile, with unisex appeal. Each shoe is crafted with care in Italy, using high-end materials like cow and Italian pebble-grain leather, split- and abrasion-resistant Margom outsoles, and open-cell polyurethane insoles for shock absorption. While the sizing may require some attention, these shoes are worth investing in and caring for, as they are designed to last and age well.