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Soludos versus TOMS; Are they the same shoe?

Last Updated on April 10, 2017 by Jane

First there were TOMS and now there is Soludos. Well actually there are loads of brands of these flat espidrille type shoes. Even JCREW has a version.

But the two names that seem to stick out as top favourites are Soludos and TOMS. And while they are similar there are differences down to the soles of the shoes. So Soludos versus TOMS, are they the same shoe? Which is better? Is one more comfortable than the other? We will look at all of these questions in this post.

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Soludos versus TOMS: Shop the Styles:

Soludous: Yellow Dali, Colour Block, Skinny IKAT, Bold Ikat, Lace Up. TOMS: Glitter, Techno Two tone, Lamar Heart Print, Canvas Classic in Red or Navy.

When it comes down to it the shoes are super similar at first glance. And maybe it is the canvas top that equates the two. But TOMS has a rubber sole whereas Soludos has a jute sole. What does that mean for you? If you want a sneaker like shoe that can pound the pavement go for TOMS. Want something cooler for hot days and hanging at the beach but hate flip flops? Soludos is where to look. Soludos is based on a traditional espadrille whereas TOMS is developed off the Argentine Alpargata. TOMs has WAAAAYYYY more styles, plus sizes for kids and babies.There are also desert boots, wedges and even glasses. Soludos does one shoe. Plus TOMS has their one for one campaign. You buy a pair of shoes (or glasses) and one pair is donated to a third world child.

Soludos does start at a cheaper price point. But for me all things equal I would pay more for TOMS based on their charity work alone.

What do you think? Which do you like better? TOMS or Soludos? Or do they serve a different purpose in your closet?

2014 UPDATE Soludos versus TOMS

Since originally posting Soludos versus TOMS I have owned both a pair of TOMS and  a pair of Soludos. Here is how the differences break down for me.

Soludos are quite narrow. When I first tried to get them on I really struggled and wondered if I had ordered the right size. But after wearing them around the house for 10 minutes there was lots of stretching. They are now very comfortable to wear. Still if you have a wide foot you might want to consider TOMS over Soludos.

The one thing that I don’t like about my TOMS after a year of wear is that the footbed liner never stays in; I have to adjust and make sure it is sitting properly to put the shoe on and walk properly. After a year of wear the TOMS look grungy but the sole is still intact and in good condition.

I think because of the difference in cotton fabrics (the weaves are different between the two companies) Soludos comes off looking cleaner and newer for longer. Also because the Soludos are narrower they seem to lengthen the foot and I find they look more chic. I am also loving their recent collaborations & their lace up styles.

What do you think? Which do you prefer? Soludos versus TOMS.

Jane is an over 40 style and travel blogger.

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