When it comes to shoes, durability and comfort are key. No one wants to invest in footwear that wears out quickly or leaves their feet aching. Yet, some of the recognizable brands on the market often fail to deliver on both fronts. Keep reading to find out which popular shoe brands might not be as reliable as you think.
Ugg
Did you know Ugg boots were originally designed for Australian surfers in the 1970s? While cozy, their popularity has waned due to concerns over practicality. Ugg boots often don’t survive more than one winter if not thoroughly maintained. The sheepskin exterior stains easily, and the foam soles compress quickly under regular use.
Aldo
Aldo shoes often suffer from poor craftsmanship, even though it’s globally recognized for their trendy designs. Leather used in their premium collections is frequently criticized for peeling, while heel tips snap under moderate stress. It’s a classic case of style without substance, which is reflected in their return rates.
Stacy Adams
Known for its heritage-inspired styles, Stacy Adams caters to formal occasions. But when we talk about functionality, the shiny faux leather scuffs pretty easily, and the thin outsoles provide little shock absorption. So, your feet are going to be sore after just a short walk.
Converse
Converse is undoubtedly iconic, but longevity isn’t their strong suit. Their thin rubber soles wear down quickly, especially under heavy use. A study on Pain Management by WebMD shows that prolonged use of flat-soled sneakers can strain your feet, ankles, and even knees. Despite their popularity, Chucks are better for casual outings than active lifestyles or work-intensive days.
Nine West
Nine West became a household name in the 1980s, yet its glory days are long gone. Reviews on Amazon reveal that their reliance on synthetic materials makes the shoes less breathable, which is quite uncomfortable during long wear. It also starts to wear out and peel off very quickly.
Skechers
Skechers, once famed for its affordability, has faced backlash for sacrificing quality for innovation. The memory foam technology, introduced in 2012, promised comfort but often failed to maintain support after merely a few months. Don’t let flashy designs fool you—the soles detach and materials wear out prematurely.
Steve Madden
Steve Madden built its empire on trendy and bold designs, but that’s it. The craftsmanship is laughable because the shoes frequently have glued components that break down quickly, and synthetic materials cause discomfort during long wear. Plus, those “trendy designs” are often just copied versions from other brands.
Zara
Zara’s fast-fashion model produces trendy footwear at lightning speed, but the results are most often flawed. The brand’s shoes frequently lack proper stitching, which is why they fall apart faster than competitors. It’s no surprise that Zara makes their products from environmentally damaging and highly uncomfortable materials to cut costs.
Kenneth Cole
Many of Kenneth Cole’s styles feature glued soles instead of stitched ones, causing them to separate over time. Despite being marketed for professionals, the stiff synthetic uppers can cause discomfort and blisters after just one wear. This combination of issues makes them less reliable for everyday use.
Keds
Keds made waves in 1916 as the first sneakers with rubber soles, but the brand has struggled to evolve since then. Their minimalist design lacks modern footwear technology, which leads to complaints of zero arch support and insufficient cushioning. A 2019 customer satisfaction survey ranked Keds below average for durability.
