Table of Contents
About Kuru
Kuru is an orthopedic shoe brand that sells footwear such as sneakers, boots, and sandals.
Ever since fifth grade, Bret Rasmussen loved shoes, which spurred his dream of creating his own footwear company in the future. In 2008, Kuru was born, leading to the creation of their signature KURUSOLE—a special type of shoe sole designed for maximum comfort and performance.
Kuru shoppers can browse through footwear tailored to specific types of foot pain, such as Kuru shoes for plantar fasciitis3 or shoes for arthritis.
With a mission to create shoes to help alleviate any discomfort when it comes to being out and about, Kuru is committed to innovating footwear for a pain-free life. To prove it, the majority of Kuru shoes are vegan!
Now based in Salt Lake City, Utah, this brand continues to make waves with their footwear by also donating to charities related to education, economic development, environmental causes, and health and well-being.
In this Kuru shoes review, I will take an in-depth look at the brand and its products, materials, features, customer ratings, promotions, and more, to help you decide if their products are worth the buy.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our mission is to help you make better, more informed purchase decisions.
Our team spends hours researching, consulting with medical experts, gathering insight from expert professionals, reviewing customer feedback, and analyzing products to provide you with the information you need.
Recent Studies About Orthopedic Footwear
Before we get into this Kuru shoes review, you might be interested in some recent studies about orthopedic footwear.
These examples suggest that the proper footwear can have significant benefits for individuals with foot conditions or those who engage in physical activities.
- This study found that customized insoles made of foam or polyurethane materials may help reduce plantar pressure and pain in individuals with foot conditions.
- This review found that footwear with a lower heel-to-toe drop and wider toe box may help improve balance and reduce falls in older adults.
- This pilot study found that customized footwear may help improve pain, function, and quality of life in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
- This meta-analysis found that customized foot orthoses may help reduce plantar pressure and prevent foot ulcers in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
- This review found that minimalist shoes may increase the risk of injury in runners, while shoes with more cushioning may help reduce impact forces and improve running economy.
Pros and Cons
Now, without further ado, let’s look at pros and cons of Kuru shoes:
Pros
- Comfort: Kuru shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort. The unique shape of the sole helps to reduce pressure on the feet and provides extra support where it’s needed.
- Arch support: Kuru shoes have a built-in arch support system that helps to reduce foot fatigue and pain. The arch support also helps to distribute weight evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of foot injuries.
- Durability: Kuru shoes are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last. The shoes are built to withstand everyday wear and tear, making them a great investment for people who need reliable shoes.
- Style: Kuru shoes come in a variety of styles and colors, making it easy to find a pair that suits your personal style.
Cons
- Price: Kuru shoes can be more expensive than other brands. However, many people feel that the added comfort and support are worth the investment.
- Fit: Some people may find that Kuru shoes don’t fit as well as they would like. However, Kuru offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, so you can return the shoes if they don’t work for you.
- Limited availability: Kuru shoes are only available online or at select retailers, which can make it difficult for people to try them on before purchasing.
Overall, Kuru shoes are a great option for people who need extra support and comfort for their feet. While they may be more expensive than other brands, many people feel that the added benefits are worth the investment.
Materials
Kuru shoes use a variety of materials to provide comfort, support, and durability. The specific materials used in each shoe style may vary, but here are some of the common materials used in Kuru shoes:
- Leather: Kuru shoes often use high-quality leather in their uppers, which provides durability, breathability, and a stylish look.
- Mesh: Many Kuru shoe styles feature mesh uppers, which allow for increased ventilation and help keep feet cool and dry.
- EVA foam: The midsoles of Kuru shoes are often made of EVA foam, a lightweight and flexible material that provides cushioning and shock absorption.
- KuruSole: Kuru’s patented technology, KuruSole, is used in the footbed of their shoes. It is made of a special blend of foams that are contoured to the shape of the foot, providing customized support and cushioning.
- Rubber: The outsoles of Kuru shoes are often made of rubber, which provides excellent grip and durability.
Overall, Kuru shoes are designed to use high-quality materials that provide comfort, support, and durability to help individuals with foot conditions or those who stand or walk for long periods.
Features
Kuru shoes are designed to provide maximum comfort and support for people with foot problems. Here are some of the features of Kuru shoes:
- Patented Sole Technology: Kuru shoes feature a patented sole technology that helps to reduce pressure on the feet and provide extra support where it’s needed. The sole is designed to be anatomically correct, providing a custom fit for each foot.
- Arch Support: Kuru shoes have a built-in arch support system that helps to reduce foot fatigue and pain. The arch support is contoured to fit the natural shape of the foot, providing extra support and stability.
- Heel Support: Kuru shoes also feature a patented heel support system that helps to reduce heel pain and discomfort. The system helps to cradle the heel and provide extra cushioning, reducing the impact of each step.
- Breathability: Kuru shoes are designed with breathable materials that help to keep the feet cool and dry. The shoes feature a mesh upper that allows for airflow, reducing the risk of sweaty feet and odors.
- Durability: Kuru shoes are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last. The shoes are built to withstand everyday wear and tear, making them a great investment for people who need reliable shoes.
- Style: Kuru shoes come in a variety of styles and colors, making it easy to find a pair that suits your personal style. Whether you need shoes for work, exercise, or casual wear, Kuru has a style for you.
4 Kuru Shoes Bestsellers
Up next, I’ll explore some of the brand’s bestsellers in both the women’s and men’s categories so you can get a better sense of the colors, support, features, prices, and more.
Kuru Atom Shoes Review
The standard black shoe, let’s face it, has been worn to death. That’s not to say that it’s an outdated look, but it’s seen as the essential go-to shoe which easily pairs with every outfit.
The Kuru Atom shoe is designed with their signature Kuru Sole and flared KURUCLOUD midsole that “combines the proven benefits of orthotics with our patented flexing action to dynamically hug your heels.”
What’s super cool about this shoe is that its insoles harness your body heat to custom mold to your feet. This promises arch support and takes away the need to ‘break in your shoes’, plus the B+ width gives your foot some room to move naturally.
With it’s breathable, patented comfort and athletic fit design, you can walk for miles. If black shoes aren’t your thing, they also offer Atom in Cloud Gray, Desert Green and White, Blue and White, and Jet Black with Lilac Accents. The Atom shoe retails for $130.
Kuru Ellie Shoes Review
The Kuru Ellie shoe is the perfect yoga shoe or slip-on to wear for a light jog on the treadmill. This footwear design has built-in arch support, a heel to toe drop for better pressure distribution, and is super breathable.
Ellie is optimal for those with Plantar Fasciitis, heel pain, bone spurs, fallen arches, and more due to the KURUCLOUD EVA midsole supporting you along the way. Plus, Ellie’s B+ width allows for your feet to fit naturally into the shoes for maximum comfort.
With its easy slip off and on design, you can quickly get up and start being active as soon as you walk out the door. There are 5 different color choices, ranging from Red Plum, Black and Gray, Blue and Gray, Black and Gray, and Blue and White.
The Ellie shoe is available in sizes 6-11 in a medium width for $110.
Kuru Quantum Review
Following the famed Chicane hiking shoe, the Quantum hiking shoe has all the same features but with a different design. Offered in a lighter, desert tan color, this shoe has bright blue laces and an added blue Kuru Logo on the side as an accent.
Designed with the same KURUCLOUD midsole and signature KURUSOLE, you get both protection and ventilation.
The Quantum hiking shoe is listed on the website as a vegan product with a D+ width and available in US size 6.5-14. Not only that, but the Quantum is also breathable and has shock-absorption capabilities to endure whatever you put them through.
Not only is their insole comfortable, but it improves your alignment and posture. Additionally, The Quantum shoe has moisture-wicking liners to keep your feet dry and happy.
Lead the pack in the next hiking trail wearing the Quantum hiking shoes for $140.
Kuru AALTO Chukka Review
The AALTO Chukka boots are the perfect mix of dressy office attire and the traditional winter boot. If you’re looking for a pair of winter boots that are both adequate to wear at work but durable enough to get you there during the winter months, these boots are made just for you.
Underneath its classy silhouette, it has all the components of an athletic Kuru shoe with its Eva midsole, TPE strobel board, and springy cushioned soles.
The Aalto Chukka is listed on the website as non-vegan, comes in a D+ width, and with a built-in KURUSOLE. This boot is available in sizes 7-13, including half sizes.
These AALTO Chukka boots are made to withstand the cold and are designed to help those suffering from Plantar Fasciitis, heel pain, flat feet, bone spurs, and more.
These winter boots come in Hickory Brown and Jet Black. Look classy, but feel covered in the AALTO Chukka boots for $132, marked down from the original $165.
Who Are Kuru Shoes For?
Kuru shoes are designed for individuals who suffer from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or heel pain, as well as those who stand or walk for extended periods.
The shoes are also suitable for individuals with a normal foot structure who want comfortable and supportive footwear. Kuru shoes feature a patented technology called KuruSole, which provides contoured support and cushioning to the heel and arch of the foot. The shoes are available in a range of styles for both men and women.
Alternatives
If Kuru shoes aren’t for you, there are plenty of other options on the market. Explore some of these brands next:
- Ortho ComfortWear: Whether preventing future foot issues or treating current ones, ComfortWear’s products and their host of benefits are for just about anyone and everyone.
- Clove: Clove is a company specializing in modern take-on shoes and socks for healthcare professionals who deserve the best care for their busy feet.
- OrthoFeetOrthoFeet: is an orthopedic footwear company that offers men and women comfort and pain relief for 20 + different ailments.
Kuru Shoes Reviews: What Do Customers Think?
I found a mixed customer response based on my research. On their website, most people have commented favorably, leaving an average of 4-5/5 stars. Most of the reviews detail that their footwear is comfortable, breathable, and great in alleviating foot pain.
“These are very light and breathable. Lots of room for the toes to spread out. Good arch support and heel support. I have plantar fasciitis and these have helped so much,” one reviewer wrote on their website for the Atom shoe.
On their Yelp page, Kuru scores a 2.5/5-star rating over 127 reviews. While some have commented that the shoes are comfortable, some have reported otherwise that their foot pain has not been alleviated and that the footwear wears down easily.
“I was recommended KURU shoes by a coworker after a painful experience with plantar fasciitis, so I bought the ATOMS. Wore them for a little over a year and already there is a hole forming where my toe is,” one Yelp reviewer wrote.
My search led me to a few Kuru shoes Reddit forums. It appears that Kuru shoes reviews on Reddit has mainly discussed that “the shoes are extremely comfortable.” While there are few comments, there are some that believe the shoes are not visually appealing, but altogether comfortable.
Are Kuru Shoes Worth It?
Are Kuru shoes worth the money? For shoes that are generally comfortable as seen in countless customer reviews, we readily recommend this brand to anyone looking to invest in quality, orthopedic shoes.
What’s especially great about their website is that with each product, there is a lengthy description of what makes the shoe one of a kind in terms of its design, what makes it comfortable, and how it is durable.
Additionally, from the customer’s point of view, it’s especially useful to browse through different types of shoes recommended to alleviate pain with different types of footwear, and shoes recommended to different professions as well. It makes it seem that each style is catered to the needs of different people.
It’s also great to know that Kuru has a program called Kuru Cares, where they donate a portion of their money to multiple charities, so you know your money is going to a good cause. Try out Kuru footwear and see if there’s a difference in your daily commute.
Kuru Shoes Promotions & Discounts
The Kuru shoe sale category on the website features limited edition and last chance shoes for a discounted price. Additionally, at the time of this Kuru shoes review I found out that they offer a rewards program where customers can collect cash points that can be used in their future orders.
They also have a refer a friend program where customers can introduce the brand to their friends to receive $10 off as a thank you gift.
Kuru also has a ‘Free Shoe Friday’ program where customers can win a chance to receive $120 worth of Kuru Cash. Keep checking the website and their social media for a Kuru footwear promo code.
Where to Buy Kuru Shoes?
You can buy Kuru shoes exclusively on their website, KuruFootwear.com.
FAQ
Where are Kuru shoes made?
While writing this Kuru shoes review, I found out that their footwear is designed in the United States and made in their partner factories in Asia.
Do any stores carry Kuru shoes?
Unfortunately, Kuru shoes are not sold in retail stores.
Do Kuru shoes have good arch support?
I found out that all their shoes have added arch support built into their design. Customer reviews have also backed this up by stating that Kuru shoes has good arch support.
Are Kuru shoes true to size?
Most Kuru shoes are true to size, but you can check within each product description. I will provide their size charts for both men and women below in this Kuru shoes review.
What is Kuru’s Shipping Policy?
Kuru provides free shipping on all United States domestic orders. For this option, most orders ship within 1 business day and arrive within 5 business days.
They also have expedited shipping for $15 and expedited overnight for $30.
For international shipping, it takes around 7-10 business days for orders to arrive. For US territories, it is $2 per order, for Canada it is $19 per order, and for all other countries it is $29 per order.
Customers can track their orders by going onto their website and inputting their order number and email address.
How do I return Kuru shoes?
Kuru has a ‘No Hassle’ policy, in which they implement 100% free returns and exchanges. All items can be returned and exchanged within 45 days of the original purchase.
Kuru footwear will ship out their exchange order and process returns within 14 days. All eligible Kuru footwear returns should be in new condition to be valid for a refund or exchange.
How to Contact Kuru
If you have questions outside of this Kuru shoes review, you can contact the company through:
- Chat online via website
- Phone: (877) 211-5878
- Email: [email protected]
- Filling out contact form on their website
If you’re not set on Kuru, check out orthopedic footwear by OrthoFeet and Oofos.
Learn about the muscle recovery benefits of compression clothing from Tommie Copper.
I have numerous foot issues, and the day I ordered my first pair, I was in so much pain, I wished somebody would cut off my feet!! So I hesitantly ordered fastest delivery, as I live in Canada, and had the shoes within 2 days. From the moment I put them on, my foot pain was completely gone. Pricey but worth every cent! Now it is all I wear….when I try to wear other brands, the pain returns. Magical shoes!