If you’re a fan of TOMS’ iconic slip-on style and comfort but want to explore other options, you’re in luck! There are numerous shoes similar to TOMS that offer the same blend of comfort, versatility, and effortless style.
TOMS shoes have become iconic for their simple, comfortable design and socially conscious business model. But for those seeking alternatives, whether due to style preferences, fit issues, or ethical considerations, there’s a growing market of similar options.
We’ll guide you through the best shoes similar to TOMS to suit your needs and values. These options provide the same easy-going style and ethical commitment that TOMS fans love, with a range of choices to fit every lifestyle.
About TOMS
TOMS is a footwear and lifestyle brand that revolutionized the concept of conscious consumerism with its “One for One” business model.
Founded in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie, the company began with a simple premise: for every pair of shoes purchased, TOMS would give a pair to a child in need.
The brand’s flagship product, the Alpargata, is inspired by the traditional Argentine Alpargata shoe. This casual slip-on features a canvas upper and flexible sole, providing comfort and simplicity that resonates with consumers worldwide.
Toms Alpargata Espadrille
In 2019, the company shifted from its original One for One model to a commitment to giving one-third of its profits to grassroots goods. This change allows TOMS to support a broader range of causes, including physical safety, mental health, and equal access to opportunity.
The average cost of TOMS shoes varies depending on the specific style, material, and design. Some limited edition or premium collections have higher price points, with some reaching up to $200 or more. On average though, expect to spend between $70 and $150 for a pair of TOMS shoes.
Reasons to Rethink Your TOMS Purchase
Source: www.instagram.com/toms/
The market for shoes similar to TOMS has dramatically transformed how we think about casual footwear. No longer are slip-ons just a simple shoe choice—they’re a statement of personal style, comfort, and ethical consumption.
TOMS shoes have a reputation for being socially conscious, but there are some reasons you might reconsider purchasing them:
❌Durability Issues: Many customers have reported that TOMS shoes wear out quickly, especially considering their price. The canvas material and thin soles may not hold up well with regular use.
❌Limited Arch Support: TOMS are known for their minimalist design, which can mean limited arch support. If you need more structure in your footwear, these might not be the best choice for comfort.
❌Sustainability Concerns: While TOMS has a “One for One” giving model, there have been criticisms about the effectiveness of this charity model and its impact on local economies in the regions they donate to.
❌ Style Limitations: The classic TOMS design may not appeal to everyone, especially if you want something more versatile or suitable for various occasions.
❌Pricier than other brands: TOMS shoes typically average around $70, with the cheapest going for around $50 without a discount. Brands like Matt & Nat’s provide comparable comfort and style to TOMS at lower prices.
Best Shoes Similar to TOMS
TOMS revolutionized casual footwear, but savvy shoe shoppers know there are multiple brands offering shoes similar to TOMS that might better suit individual preferences.
Here’s a curated list of the top alternatives that capture TOMS’ signature blend of comfort, style, and social responsibility, with a focus on slips-on.
✅Sustainable materials: Made from recycled materials, bio-based leather, and aloe vera.
❌Price range: $102 to $145
One of the most affordable ethical shoe brands, Thousand Fell is a company committed to closing the loop in the fashion industry by producing fully recyclable footwear.
The company’s Women’s Slip-on shoes are designed with comfort and durability in mind. They feature a minimalist, sleek design that pairs well with various outfits. The shoes are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for daily wear.
What sets Thousand Fell apart is its innovative use of sustainable materials, including bio-based leather and recycled materials. Plus, the shoes are designed to be sent back for recycling, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to sustainability.
✅Best for: Eco-conscious consumers seeking a sleek, vegan option
✅Sustainable materials: Made with 100% recycled polyester and vegan materials
✅Price range: $38 to $95
Matt & Nat is a brand known for its commitment to vegan and sustainable fashion, with a strong emphasis on ethical practices.
The Lucas Vegan Slip-Ons, crafted from 100% recycled polyester and other eco-friendly materials, are a testament to this mission.
These slip-ons are designed to offer both style and comfort. They feature a streamlined silhouette that’s versatile enough for casual and semi-casual occasions.
The lightweight and breathable design makes them perfect for everyday wear, especially for those who value cruelty-free products.
Allbirds Tree Loungers
Source: www.instagram.com/allbirds/
✅Best for: Breathable, eco-friendly footwear for warm weather.
✅Sustainable materials: Eucalyptus tree fiber, castor bean oil, and recycled laces.
✅Price range: $70 to $100
A popular choice among shoes similar to TOMS, the Allbirds Tree Loungers are made from eucalyptus tree fiber, which provides excellent breathability and a soft, silky feel. These slip-ons are perfect for warm weather, offering a light and airy fit that’s comfortable for all-day wear.
The use of castor bean oil in the insole and recycled materials for the laces underscores Allbirds’ commitment to sustainability.
The Tree Loungers have a simple, modern design that’s easy to match with various outfits, making them a versatile choice for those who prioritize both style and environmental responsibility.
For more sustainable footwear options, check out our Allbirds vs Baabuk comparison.
Suavs
Source: www.instagram.com/suavsshoes/
✅Best for: Versatile, travel-friendly footwear that’s easy to pack.
Suavs is a footwear brand that prides itself on creating comfortable and versatile shoes for people on the go. The company was founded with the mission of providing individuals with footwear that can keep up with their active lifestyles without sacrificing style or comfort.
Suavs shoes are designed to be lightweight, breathable, and supportive, making them ideal for a variety of activities, from casual outings to travel adventures. The brand uses high-quality materials and innovative construction techniques to ensure that its shoes are durable and comfortable.
Suavs offers various styles, including sneakers, loafers, and slip-on shoes, to cater to different preferences and occasions.
Cariuma OCA Low
Source: www.instagram.com/cariuma/
✅ Best for: Stylish, eco-friendly sneakers with a classic design
✅Sustainable materials: Organic cotton canvas, natural rubber, and cork insole.
✅Price range: $85 to $159
These Brazilian-made sneakers offer a fresh alternative to traditional shoes similar to TOMS. Cariuma’s OCA Low is a classic slip-on sneaker made from organic cotton canvas. It has a natural rubber sole and a cork insole for added comfort.
These shoes are not only fashionable but also environmentally friendly, aligning with Cariuma’s commitment to using sustainable materials and ethical production practices.
The OCA Low’s timeless design makes it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. It is suitable for both casual and more dressed-up looks.
Cariuma also plants two trees for every pair of shoes sold, furthering their dedication to environmental conservation.
Want to explore similar brands? Find out which fits your style best in our Veja vs Cariuma comparison.
Rothy’s The Loafer
Source: www.instagram.com/rothys/
✅Best for: Chic, sustainable footwear suitable for casual and business-casual settings.
✅Sustainable materials: Recycled plastic water bottles carbon-free rubber soles.
✅Price range: $79 to $175
For those seeking premium shoes similar to TOMS, Rothy’s delivers exceptional quality.
Rothy’s is a brand renowned for turning recycled plastic into fashionable footwear. The Loafer is one of their signature slip-ons, offering a polished look with the comfort of a casual shoe.
These loafers are machine washable and designed for long-lasting wear, making them a practical choice for everyday use.
The knit material, made from recycled plastic bottles, is flexible and breathable, while the rubber sole ensures durability.
Rothy’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond materials to their carbon-neutral production processes, making The Loafer a smart choice for eco-conscious consumers.
VEJA Esplar
Source: www.instagram.com/veja/
✅Best for: Ethically-made, minimalist sneakers with a modern aesthetic.
✅Sustainable materials: Organic cotton, wild rubber from the Amazon, and recycled polyester.
❌Price range: $130
VEJA is a brand synonymous with ethical and sustainable footwear. The Esplar model features a minimalist design that is both stylish and versatile, easily transitioning from casual to semi-formal occasions.
The upper is crafted from organic cotton, while the sole is made from wild rubber sourced from the Amazon rainforest, supporting sustainable harvesting practices.
VEJA is transparent about its supply chain, ensuring that every step of its production is ethical and environmentally responsible.
Looking for other VEJA styles? Check out our Veja V10 vs Veja V12 breakdown to explore more options.
✅Best for: Lightweight, water-friendly shoes perfect for outdoor activities
✅Sustainable materials: EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), partially recycled materials
✅Price range: $55
Native Shoes is known for its lightweight, water-resistant footwear ideal for outdoor adventures.
The Jefferson slip-on is one of their most popular models. It features a perforated design that’s both breathable and easy to clean. The shoes are made from EVA, a flexible, shock-absorbent material that provides comfort and durability.
While Native Shoes are not fully biodegradable, the brand is making sustainable strides by incorporating recycled materials into their products and encouraging customers to recycle their old shoes through the Native Shoes Remix™ Project.
Soludos Smoking Slipper
Source: www.instagram.com/soludos/
✅Best for: Fashionable, summer-ready shoes with a laid-back vibe.
✅Sustainable materials: Cotton canvas, jute sole.
✅Price range: $85 to $109
Bringing sophistication to shoes similar to TOMS, Soludos is a brand inspired by the traditional espadrilles of the Mediterranean, offering modern updates to these classic styles. Their Smoking Slipper is a popular choice, featuring a cotton canvas upper and a jute-wrapped sole, making them ideal for warm weather.
These shoes have a relaxed, beachy feel, perfect for summer outings or casual strolls. While not as rugged as some other options, the Soludos Smoking Slipper is a stylish choice for those looking for a light, breathable shoe that embodies the spirit of summer.
Conclusion
TOMS has set the standard for casual, comfortable, and ethical footwear, but several other brands offer similar styles and values. Choosing the right shoe ultimately comes down to what you value most—be it versatility, comfort, or sustainability.
TOMS remains a key choice for many due to its strong brand reputation and commitment to social impact. The brand’s comfort, style, and ethical practices continue to resonate with consumers looking for footwear that aligns with their values.
The average cost of TOMS shoes is around $70, with prices ranging from $50 to more than $150. Though higher compared to alternatives that provide similar quality at lower costs, many are willing to pay a premium for TOMS’ established charitable mission and the assurance of quality.
Now, with so many shoes similar to TOMS available, it’s easier than ever to find styles that suit your lifestyle, whether you’re seeking eco-friendly materials or timeless designs.
Allow me to introduce myself, Savannah Bailey, a pivotal content writer at EthicalSustainableClothing.com. My initial fascination with fashion's creative realm soon gave way to mounting concerns about its environmental and ethical implications, propelling me toward a fulfilling career in sustainable fashion. Armed with a degree in fashion design, I now utilize my words to educate and inspire, with the goal of sparking transformative change.
My collaborations with ethical fashion brands, coupled with an unwavering love for the great outdoors, have deepened my commitment to sustainability. I employ my exceptional writing skills as a driving force behind a broader movement towards intentional fashion choices, striving to bridge the gap between style and ethics.
Within my role at EthicalSustainableClothing.com, my fervor for sustainable fashion and my advocacy seamlessly blend, propelling our mission forward. I invite you to join me in embracing a more conscious and stylish world, where each decision contributes to a brighter future.
