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Welcome to Skimm Tested, where we put products to the test and then give them a report card. (Check out all of our tried-and-tested faves here.)
The assignment…
To test the wide assortment of shoes from the popular brand Rothy’s, from their slip-on sneakers to their loafers to their flats. Are these kicks something you want on your feet?
How we did our homework…
We had a total of three testers, one for each pair of shoes. Two of them chose their sizes online, while one visited a brick-and-mortar Rothy’s store. Each wore their respective pair over the course of six weeks, paying special attention to fit, comfort, style, support, and durability.
The Original Slip-On Sneaker ($119)
Straight A’s in…
Comfort and support. Tester 1 noticed a good amount of support in these slip-on sneaks, thanks to the cushy midsole. The upper is soft, which means there wasn’t a break-in period. You'll be able to slide into them and go.
Style and color. She loved how they looked on her feet, and really adores the Light Grey colorway. The heel stripe adds a sporty touch, so they’re a great option if you’re looking for that easy streetwear vibe.
Room for growth…
Sizing issue. These shoes don’t have much stretch, so finding the absolute right fit can be a bit tough. Our tester landed between sizes, so she sized up and felt like she had some extra room in the heel. For the absolute best fit, we suggest trying these shoes on in person.
The Almond Loafer ($179)
Straight A’s in…
Comfort. These loafers are so lightweight, Tester 2 almost forgot she was wearing a shoe. The almond-toe profile means there’s more space for your toes to spread out ( no squeezing up top).
Style. Our tester found these to be incredibly sophisticated, making this design ideal for work and office use. If you want to dress them down, you can easily pair them with a relaxed pair of jeans and a white T-shirt. Hello, versatility.
Room for growth…
Support. Even with the extra-cushy footbed, Tester 2 found arch support in these to be a tad too minimal for her liking. If you’ve got flat feet (she does), consider this when purchasing.
Sizing issue. Much like the slip-on sneakers (and Tester 1), she ended up between sizes for the loafers. If she sized down, they would have been too tight. Because of this, she also had a bit of room in the heel, which caused a blister on the first wear. Pro tip: always try on in person (when you can).
The Point ($149)
Straight A’s in…
Comfort. Since these flats are extremely flexible, all-day wear didn’t feel constricting. They weigh practically nothing, so Tester 3 felt light and quick on her feet.
Style and versatility. These flats are sleek and go with pretty much any outfit. Business casual? Check. Formal? Check. Casual? Also check.
Packability. Since the shoes aren't bulky, they’re very easy to pack and will barely take up room in a suitcase. Tester 3 confirmed they’re a great vacation option.
Sizing. For this pair, our tester visited a local Rothy’s store and found the sales associate to be incredibly helpful during the try-on process. The result? She found the perfect size that didn’t rub on her heels or cause blisters.
Room for growth…
Toe bed. She found the pointed style meant that the toe bed was narrow, so be safe and size up. It admittedly took her a few tries to find the right size, but once she did, she experienced zero pinching up top and no heel rubbing.
Support. Tester 3 confirmed these shoes have low arch support. However, that didn’t deter her from wearing them to the office (she also commuted in them). Consider traveling in sneakers and then transitioning into these once you’re at work.
More about Rothy's…
Plays well with…
Anyone looking for a durable, versatile pair of shoes from a trusted brand. Rothy’s has a range of styles, including mules and lace-up sneakers.
Someone who cares about fashion sustainability. Products are made from recycled, natural, or renewable materials.
Gets extra credit for…
Sustainability. Rothy’s shoes are made with their signature thread, which comes from single-use plastic bottles. Other materials include sustainably sourced merino wool, natural rubber, and more.
Washability. Everything is fully machine washable — you can toss a pair in with the rest of your weekly load — just check to see if the insoles need to removed first. The brand recommends cold water and mild detergent on gentle cycle (air dry only).
Color range. Want something neutral? Rothy’s has it. Want something bright? Find shoes in neon pink, bright red, and more.
Footnotes…
The Original Slip-On Sneaker, $119
The Almond Loafer, $179
The Point, $149
Styles for men also available
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