Buzz
Unless specified otherwise, all sizes mentioned in this article are for women.
A few weeks back, my mother suffered a dislocated shoulder in both arms, drastically reducing her mobility. The pain and emotional toll of not being able to perform simple tasks independently have been overwhelming for her. Wanting to help, I recalled seeing ads for Kizik, a brand specializing in hands-free sneakers, and decided to purchase a pair of lace-up sneakers she could manage on her own.
Browsing the brand’s website, I was struck by how sleek and modern the shoes looked — a far cry from the typical utilitarian designs of comfort footwear. Kizik offers styles for men, women, and children, all of which rival mainstream sneaker brands in style. What sets them apart is their patented spring-back heel, allowing wearers to slip them on without bending over.
Once my mom tried them on, she found them incredibly easy to put on and take off, and they were comfortable even after hours of wear. When I visited her last week, I noticed how much more positive she seemed, thanks to the independence these shoes provided.
Unlike slides or clogs, which are inherently hands-free, Kizik’s designs resemble traditional lace-up sneakers. This gives her a sense of normalcy and allows her to wear stylish shoes without needing assistance to tie them.
My father, a certified prosthetist and orthotist, explained the psychological benefits of such footwear, stating, “The ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) is crucial for emotional well-being. For those with mobility issues, something as simple as putting on shoes independently can be incredibly empowering.”
On Kizik’s website, I noticed that Nike has partnered with Kizik’s Handsfree Labs and has introduced its own line of easy-on shoes. This collaboration suggests a growing demand for fashionable, accessible footwear that incorporates universal design principles.
In the meantime, here are a few of my top Kizik picks, including the pair I chose for my mom and others I considered (and might still get for her).
1. The retro-inspired Prague sneakers
When choosing a style for my mom, I weighed the Madrid (which reminded me of Allbirds) against the Prague, which I felt resembled Vans, especially in the blue-and-white colorway. Ultimately, I picked the Prague since my mom, an avid Peloton rider, already owns Allbirds.
The sole is sturdy and supportive without being overly chunky, and the suede accents on the canvas upper add a subtle flair while keeping the design versatile. These shoes can be dressed up with slacks or a skirt, paired with jeans, or worn with casual sweats or leggings for a nostalgic vibe.
Available at Kizik for $109 (sizes 4.5–15 for men in seven colors or sizes 6–13 for women in eight colors).
2. The sleek, athletic Madrid design
These knit sneakers, which I nearly bought for my mom, are crafted from recycled materials, offering breathability and stretch to ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. The monochrome design is incredibly stylish, making them a vibrant statement piece or a subtle, neutral addition to any outfit. I believe these are perfect for someone with a busy lifestyle or anyone who appreciates the aesthetic of athletic sneakers, even if they're just for casual wear.
Available at Kizik for $99 (sizes 4.5–13 for men in eight colors or sizes 6–12.5 for women in eight colors).
3. A trendy and sporty pair of Milan sneakers
These sleek sneakers with side graphics immediately brought to mind Saucony Jazz shoes or Onitsuka Tigers. They embody a European athletic style that pairs effortlessly with linen trousers or wool slacks, offering a polished look while keeping the comfort of sneakers. Available in nylon and full suede, they come in some of the most appealing color combinations on the site. (The chocolate brown? Absolutely stunning!)
Get them from Kizik for $119 (sizes 4.5–15 for men in nine styles or sizes 6–13 for women in 10 styles).
4. The timeless low-top lace-up Irvines
For those seeking a classic low-top lace-up design, Kizik delivers. Similar to Adidas Stan Smiths or Superga's 2725 silhouette, these sneakers are minimalist, versatile, and feature a spacious, rounded toe box for all-day comfort, whether you're out during the day or into the night.
Available at Kizik for $99 (sizes 4.5–15 for men in six styles or sizes 6–13 for women in six styles).
5. The durable, water-resistant Wasatch design
These hiking sneakers strike a perfect balance between ruggedness and urban style, featuring a lug sole for stability on rough surfaces and water-resistant properties. The bold laces add a striking touch, making them an excellent choice for a standout look.
Available at Kizik for $149 (sizes 4.5–15 for men in four colors or sizes 6–13 for women in four colors).
The reviews in this post have been condensed and clarified for brevity.
