Respect Every Step.
Top 5 Minimalist Shoes:
Allbirds, Casca, Oliver Cabell,
Suavs, and Greats
Wear the best minimal shoes that look good in any situation. We reviewed Allbirds, Casca, Oliver Cabell, Suavs, and Greats to highlight the top minimalist shoes.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here's how we make money.
In the past, if you wanted a comfortable everyday shoe, it meant wearing a running shoe or “lifestyle” shoe with the company’s logo proudly displayed on the side. If you are looking for the best shoe for your minimalist wardrobe, the big logos and crazy colorways are a little annoying.
It’s understandable why brand logos have seemingly become larger and larger over the years. It’s good advertising for the brands, and many people aspire to be like their favorite athletes and celebrities proudly representing the gear.
Minimalist-inspired shoes offer an appealing alternative, and fortunately, several companies design beautiful and comfortable shoes perfect for any minimalist wardrobe. The shoes are clean and crisp, without sacrificing comfort, and come in a variety of fresh colorways, too, so you can still express your personality without feeling like a walking billboard.
Allbirds, Casca, Oliver Cabell, Suavs, & Greats Comparison
So which brand should you choose? We will help you decide. Read the detailed review or see the side-by-side comparison below.
What are the best minimalist shoes?
Despite the low-key design, our favorite minimalist shoes still have enough unique flair to stand out from the crowd, allowing you to walk the tightrope between casual and distinguished proudly. Whether you are planning a night on the town or planning some first-class lounging, we recommend these brands as the best shoes for your minimalist wardrobe:
Should You Buy Minimalist Shoes?
In a decade gone by, there were only a handful of major shoe brands in the world. Some of those are still around and dominate the market in a winner-take-all fashion, while some (such as Pony) are a shell of what they once were.
The internet has changed the game, providing brands direct access to consumers without the need for expensive advertising and expensive sponsorship agreements. This is good news for you and me because brands flying under the radar sell high-quality shoes. If you are looking for shoes for a minimalist wardrobe, going with one of the brands we have highlighted is a fantastic option.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of great shoes on the market in today’s internet-driven world, some you may not have considered in the past. When you buy Allbirds, Casca, or any other shoe in our Top 5, you will be buying quality-made shoes that are comfortable and distinct.
Save The Planet Too - Minimal Shoes Are Often Sustainably Made
Minimalistic style elevates function and simple beauty above unnecessary noise, and this mindset influences the production process and materials as well. As a result, many brands making shoes that fit with minimalist wardrobes also happen to make sustainably driven shoes.
Allbirds, for instance, make shoes sourced from responsibly managed Eucalyptus tree farms. Eucalyptus trees require significantly less water and electricity to grow than traditional cotton farming. Eucalyptus trees don’t require harmful pesticides and chemicals either.
Greats’ The Royale Knit is responsible for seven recycled plastic bottles and only uses recycled leather for the accents.
Allbirds Shoes Review
Allbirds might be the best known of these brands, and for a good reason. The shoes are stylish in a way that is understated yet somehow elegant for a sneaker.
When a minimalist design isn’t done well, it can feel boring or tired, but Allbirds completely avoided this downfall. The shoes are clean and inviting, comfortably reinvigorating, and perfect for nearly any occasion. And while they stay true to minimalist design, there are many colors to choose from, so you can still show a little personality. Allbirds have also been known to release limited edition colors and designs, such as a natural white, fluffy-looking model (like sheep) to celebrate the brand’s birthday.
The company’s line-up has expanded with success, so they now offer daily sneakers, high tops, running shoes, and more. Allbirds successfully designed each shoe line with a common minimalist aesthetic, so they are recognizable as Allbirds without larger maker’s marks. Allbirds come in a wide variety of colorways, so while you may prefer the clean designs, you can still add a little pop to your outfit if you want to do so. Better yet, with so many colorways, you can buy multiple pairs to keep your wardrobe combinations continually fresh.
While Allbirds now has a variety of shoes, including those made from Eucalyptus fibers, Allbirds was founded using high-quality Merino wool for all of their shoes. Merino wool shoes keep you warm during the winter, but they also wick moisture quite well, so surprisingly, they work great year-round. If you are worried about wool shoes getting too hot, many people choose to wear them sockless. Merino wool is known for its softness, so it isn’t scratchy like some wool. By the way, the wool shoes are machine washable.
Are Allbirds Really that comfortable?
The soles are highly flexible, so they conform to your feet, and the Eucalyptus construction of the tree toppers makes the shoe light and breezy. These are seriously comfortable shoes. Not only has the Allbirds sneaker been hailed as the “world’s most comfortable shoe,” but the company is also committed to sustainable manufacturing.
While the company admits they are not at zero carbon footprint yet, they actively pursue a zero carbon footprint. Look no further than some of the main materials, including wool, recycled plastics and cardboard, and castor bean oil. Allbirds are comfortable on your feet and keep the planet feeling comfortable too.
To have such a responsible and sustainable mindset while also producing such an enjoyable and handsome shoe is an impressive feat. Once you purchase your new Allbirds, you will look good and feel good, too, both because of the comfort and because Allbirds is sustainably focused.
Bonus Information: If you like Allbirds, you will be stoked to know they now sell socks too! Check out our review of their wool and eucalyptus blended socks.
More Allbirds Customer Reviews
Buying shoes can be a big deal, so we have carefully curated 5-star customer reviews from around the web to provide you with insight into each brand’s best selling points. We are confident one of these brands makes the perfect shoe for your minimalist-inspired wardrobe, and these customers seem to think the same thing.
Review from Carol: The only trouble with Allbirds is that once you start wearing them, you never want to wear any other shoes. This is like wearing nothing but having your feet protected and happy.
Review from Kathy: Received my 2nd pair of Allbirds for Christmas. A perfect pair of shoes that require no “break-in” time —they fit and are comfortable from the get-go!
Review from Taylor: Brought on vacation at Disney with friends and walked several miles a couple of days we were there, and they were excellent. No break-in period and just perfection. Great for daily use as well. I have gotten so many compliments! Great mission too!
Are Allbirds Worth It?
While Allbirds were a trendy brand just a few years ago, today, they are taking on Nike and Adidas now. They’ve released a larger line-up of shoes, including running shoes and weather-resistant wool mizzles. For many, Allbirds are the perfect minimalist shoe. They are simple, sustainable, comfortable, and versatile. Honestly, Allbirds’ wool runners are a minimalist wardrobe staple.
SUMMARYPROSCONS
- Known for comfort
- No leather, doesn't dress up as well
- Sustainably made
- Growing variety
- Running shoes available
Casca Shoe Review
We love the Casca Avro. The silhouette is clean and simple while also being modern and unique. The company is fairly new, so while the Avro is available in men’s and women’s sizes, it is the only silhouette available in Casca’s line-up. The Avro is so beautiful and versatile, it’s the only silhouette they need, or you might ever need.
The Casca Avro might be the most versatile shoe on the entire market. The shoe comes either in waterproof leather upper or in a breathable knit upper, so the Avro will keep you comfortable in any climate. The knit version is machine washable, so you can keep your new kicks looking fresh. The Avro is an everyday shoe that wears like a running shoe but is much more durable and multi-functional.
Honestly, there isn’t enough room here to do Casca justice, so we did a full article reviwing the brand. Check it out for a more detailed explanation of why we love Casca.
Casca’s “SmartFit” Insole
When you order your new pair of Cascas, they will be comfortable out of the box because of the proprietary support in the sole you are looking for absolute maximum comfort, Casca has the solution for you. “SmartFit” is the first integrated sole tailored for you (and only you) based on 3D printing technology.
The way it works is you order your new pair of shoes, and they are shipped with the standard insole, which is comfortable in its own right. If you added the custom SmartFit, you will download the app and follow the instructions to scan your feet. Casca will then make your custom insoles intended solely for Casca shoes and send them to you.
It’s honestly hard to imagine a better shoe. Casca’s Avro sneakers are sleek and modern while providing superior durability and tailored comfort. If you are in the market for a new shoe, we recommend buying a pair of Avros today.
More Casca Customer Reviews
Review from Jackie: I bought these for work because I’m on my feet all day and was constantly getting a sore back and legs. They’re so comfortable, better than any shoe I’ve owned. I have very weird-shaped feet, but the footbeds are super comfortable, and the knit shoe is very breathable. I would buy it again, no question!
Review from Yvonna: I love these sneakers; they are not only so comfy (I feel like I am wearing a sock actually) and lightweight, I also love the 3d printed element of the insoles! They also match with every outfit, whether you want to dress them up or down, perfect for a walk or heading out to a post-quarantine meal.
Review from Astrid: Absolutely in love with these shoes. I have severe plantar fasciitis and arthritis in my feet. I have tried many different shoes, including orthotics. I wore these shoes for a couple of days after receiving them, and I can actually now go for long walks with kids and dogs. My feet have never been happier. Highly recommended.
Are Casca Shoes Worth It?
The bottom line is that Casca makes some of our favorite shoes on the market. They are super clean and made from the highest quality materials. Plus, their SmartFit technology is cutting-edge stuff that provides unparalleled comfort. And another thing we love is that
Casca shoes might be the most versatile shoes we reviewed. You can dress them up and wear them to most offices, or dress them down and lounge. The knit shoes work better in warmer weather, while the leather Avros work well in cold and wet climates.SUMMARYPROSCONS
- Custom comfort
- Frequently out of stock
- Clean silhouette
- Unmatched versatility
- Premium materials quality
Oliver Cabell Shoe Review
If Italian leather shoes are your thing, then Oliver Cabell is for you. These might be the most luxurious brands featured here, but they aren’t sold at a luxury price point. Oliver Cabell sells direct to consumers, avoiding the need for retail mark-up. Given the Italian leather quality and direct-to-consumer pricing, It’s no wonder their shoes are often compared favorably to more expensive options such as Common Projects shoes, which frequently retail north of $400.
We also love Oliver Cabell’s transparency. Oliver Cabell is big on providing premium luxury for affordable prices and skips retail outlets to accomplish this. Because providing affordable luxury is so important to Oliver Cabell, they actually provide a price breakdown for every sneaker in their collection.
Oliver Cabell’s shoes are absolutely worth considering if you are looking for minimal shoes, with a luxury feel, at an affordable price.
Oliver Cabell Customer Reviews
Review from Andres: These shoes are fresh and well worth the price. They are minimalist, low profile, narrow, and, most of all, versatile. I can wear these shoes with practically any outfit, dress them up or dress them down. They run true to size, so if you want extra room, consider getting a larger size. I’m thrilled with this addition (and investment) to my wardrobe.
Review from Ceedee: I was on the hunt for a cool pair of sneakers that were not as mainstream as Converse or Superga’s but weren’t as expensive as Common Projects. Oliver Cabell’s delivered big time. They are made in Spain, I’ve found them to be amazing quality, and there is cushioning inside the shoe, which makes them super comfy. They are super stylish too. Definitely not my last pair!
Review from Mark: Love the pure white leather sneakers. Exceptional quality, clean look. Great investment for the price point, probably the best deal for someone looking for high-quality leather sneakers.
Are Oliver Cabells Worth It?
Oliver Cabell shoes aren’t as versatile or sustainable as other brands, but if you are looking for a pair of leather shoes to look good on the town with fresh jeans, Oliver Cabell is tough to beat, though Casca gives them a run for their money in our book
SUMMARYPROSCONS
- Great with jeans
- Few options that competitors
- Premium materials quality
Suavs Shoe Review
Suavs are the perfect shoe to buy if you only plan on having one pair of shoes in your wardrobe. They are ideal for traveling, as they pack flat, are machine washable, and are comfortable. The rubber soles provide extreme flexibility and mobility, while the digit knit uppers are so lightweight the shoes actually pack flat. They are the perfect shoes to pack in a backpack or overnight bag during your travels.
Because the shoes are so pliable, you could easily make the argument they fit more like a sock than a traditional shoe. For that reason, many people chose to forego the socks when wearing a pair of these minimalist Suavs. Worried about making your shoes smell? No worries. The insoles are moisture-wicking to prevent sweat accumulation, and if they need to be washed, that is fine too. The insoles are washable and designed to dry quickly.
While we prefer the original models, Suavs now offers a no-laces slip-on model if you are interested in extreme convenience.
Suavs Are Vegan-Friendly
We also love that Suavs shoes are made from 100% post-consumer recycled threads, so not only are your Suavs comfortably your go-to shoe for convenience, but they are also earth-friendly. Suavs is the only brand we reviewed to have a complete line-up of vegan-friendly minimalist shoes. If you do much backpacking or are looking for a vegan-friendly minimalist shoe, then we are proud to recommend Suavs. Pick up a pair soon.
More Suavs Customer Reviews
Review from Christina: These shoes are the best! They are extremely comfortable and lightweight. You even forget you’re wearing them. They can be worn with or without socks, which is awesome (never been a fan before because of sweat and blisters- not a problem with these shoes)! They don’t require a break-in period and are ready out of the box. They are a true jet black. These are our first pair (both myself and my fiance), and we will be getting more! They are now our go-to shoe when heading out of the house. If you’re thinking about getting them, do it; you won’t regret it.
Review from Cody: They feel very comfortable, and the size is right. So I’m happy to say I’ll be switching all my shoes to SUAVS. I actually fell asleep on the couch with them because of how comfortable they feel. I’ve been telling everyone about them! What really sold me was that they were washable and made of recycled materials. Definitely excited to see the future for SUAVS. I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on them so far, and I haven’t even gotten a chance to wash them yet; needless to say, they’re always going to stay looking fresh.
Review from Jessica: I bought these for my husband, who is the worst to shoe shop with. Every time he spends forever trying to walk around in a fashion where I have never seen him walk normally. Multiple stores, hours wasted, and frustration eventually leading to a purchase. But it does not end usually; said purchase results in a return days later. But THESE SHOES!!!!!!!!!! He put them on, left them there the rest of the day, and LOVES them!!! They check every box, hate socks? No problem! Smelly feet, wash em! Different size feet? No issue! They look amazing and will work for all seasons! No matter the weather, they are comfortable.
Are Suavs Shoes Worth It?
If you are the type of person that would rather be backpacking through Europe rather than hanging out at fancy clubs, we think Suavs might be for you. They don’t dress up as nicely as some of the minimalist alternatives, but that is perfectly fine. Your Suavs will work well for basically everything other than work and fancy dinners, and honestly, some people might be able to pull them off in those settings as well.
SUMMARYPROSCONS
- Great for traveling
- Thinner soles than some like
- Flexible and easy to pack
- Machine Washable
- Sustainably Made
Greats Shoe Review
Greats mission says it all: “We make shoes for the rest of your life. And we like to make them responsibly.” These shoes are born on the streets of Brooklyn and made to be your everyday shoe on your local streets. They offer classic styling made from quality materials, with care given to the planet in the process.
If you are looking for a wardrobe staple that will never go out of fashion, then chances are Greats are the shoes for you. On top of that, The Royale Knit is made from recycled bottles and 100% vegan, so if you are looking for a vegan shoe for a night on the town, GREATS The Royale Knit is a minimalist shoe that will go with both chinos and jeans.
As much as we love The Royale Knit, our favorite Greats shoe is The Wooster. It is an old-school slip-on available in suede or leather. In our countless hours of researching minimalist shoes, The Wooster stood out as one of the only slip-ons worth recommending. When you are in a rush and don’t have time to sit down and tie your shoes, it is also nice to have a pair of shoes you can slide right into. Buy The Wooster, and it will become your go-to shoe as you are rushing out the door.
Greats makes timeless classics particularly fit for the minimalist wardrobe. Once you purchase a pair of their shoes, they will become a wardrobe staple for years to come.
More Greats Customer Reviews
Review from Dwayne: The shoes are a winner in every way… You can pair the shoes with just about anything. Always getting compliments on mine. Perfect Shoes!!
Review from Christopher: I was skeptical about all of the positive reviews about GREATS. I was also put off by the price tag. I have never paid this much for a pair of sneakers. The good news is that the hype is real, and they are well worth the cost. These sneakers are comfortable, sturdy, made with amazing attention to detail, and look great, especially with jeans.
Review from Andres: Definitely did not disappoint. I enjoy both the style and quality of craftsmanship. Recommended!
Are Greats Shoes Worth It?
Like Oliver Cabell, Greats is worth considering if you are looking for classier shoes. While they have a growing product line, they don’t sell running shoes, and even their casual shoes aren’t as casual as the alternatives. Still, if you are headed to the office or a night on the town, Greats are a
great (sorry, couldn’t help it) wardrobe addition.SUMMARYPROSCONS
- Sustainable Options
- Thinner soles than some like
- Look good dressed up
- Brooklyn born
Our Recommended Minimalist Shoe
We spent countless hours researching minimalist shoes, and after all of that time, there was one brand that stood out above all the rest. The Casca Avros are seemingly the perfect minimalist shoe. The silhouette and materials are beautiful, a 3D printed insole is available for personalized comfort, and the shoe works in almost every situation.
You are not going to want to throw your Cascas in the washing machine as you might with Allbirds or Suavs, but that’s a small price to pay for stylish comfort you can jog down a bus with while still looking good at the office or out with family and friends.
For workouts or running, we recommend choosing Allbirds. No other minimalist brand offers a competitive running shoe, and all of Allbirds shoes are comfortable. And if you are looking for minimalist casual clothing or workout clothing to pair with your Allbirds, we recommend that you start with Vuori. Vuori clothing is made in understated styles, with premium materials, and ethical manufacturing.
BONUS: If sustainability is your priority, check out our review, including Cariuma, Allbirds, and Atoms.
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