For many in Kenya, finding quality footwear is more than just a shopping trip; it is an investment in comfort, durability, and personal presentation. With various options available, from local markets to international brands, knowing how to buy quality footwear in Kenya can help you make smart choices. This guide will walk you through what to look for and where to find the best shoes to suit your needs.
Why Quality Footwear Matters
Your shoes carry you through your daily life, so their quality directly impacts your comfort and foot health. Poorly made shoes can lead to various issues, including blisters, arch pain, and even long-term posture problems.1 Quality footwear offers:
Durability: Well-constructed shoes last longer, saving you money in the long run. You avoid frequent replacements.
Comfort: Good shoes provide proper support and cushioning, reducing foot fatigue and discomfort, especially if you are on your feet for extended periods.
Health: Quality materials allow your feet to breathe, minimizing the risk of fungal infections and odor. Proper fit and support help prevent injuries.
Appearance: Quality shoes often look better and maintain their shape, contributing positively to your overall appearance.
Key Indicators of Quality Footwear
When you shop for shoes, keep these points in mind to identify quality:
1. Material Quality
The materials used are a primary indicator of a shoe’s quality.
Leather:Genuine leather is a top choice for quality shoes. It is breathable, flexible, and molds to your foot over time. Look for full-grain or top-grain leather. Synthetic alternatives, while sometimes cheaper, do not offer the same breathability or durability. When you bend leather, it should wrinkle naturally, not crease harshly. Real leather also has a distinct, natural smell, not a chemical one.
Suede: High-quality suede is soft to the touch and also durable.
Soles: Quality soles are usually made from durable rubber or leather. Rubber soles offer good grip and wear resistance, while leather soles are breathable but can be slippery on wet surfaces. Inspect how the sole attaches to the upper; avoid shoes with visible glue marks. Stitching is a good sign of durability.
Linings and Insoles: The inside of the shoe also matters. Look for natural materials like leather or organic cotton in the lining and insoles. These materials enhance breathability and comfort. Cushioned insoles with arch support are good for foot health.
2. Construction and Craftsmanship
How a shoe is put together reveals much about its quality.
Stitching: Examine the stitching. It should be tight, even, and straight, without loose threads. Poor stitching indicates weak construction.
Sole Attachment: For durable shoes, the sole is often stitched, cemented, or Blake-stitched (stitched directly to the insole). Glued soles might be cheaper but are less durable.
Heel Counter: The heel counter is the stiff part at the back of the shoe. A firm heel counter provides good support. Test it by pressing on it; it should not collapse easily.
Shank: Many quality shoes, especially dress shoes, have a shank – a rigid piece, often steel, in the midsole that provides arch support and prevents the shoe from collapsing. You cannot usually see it, but a good salesperson can tell you if it is present.
3. Fit and Comfort
A quality shoe must fit well and feel comfortable from the moment you try it on. Do not buy shoes that need “breaking in.”
Try Both Shoes: Your feet are often slightly different sizes. Always try on both shoes.
Walk Around: Walk around the store to test the fit. Pay attention to how the shoe feels when you move.
Measure Your Feet: Your foot size can change, even as an adult. Have your feet measured while standing, preferably later in the day when your feet are largest due to natural swelling.
Toe Room: Ensure you have enough space at the end of the shoe – about 1 to 1.5 cm between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Your toes should not feel pinched.
Width: The widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the shoe. Shoes that are too narrow or too wide can cause problems.
Socks: Try shoes on with the type of socks you typically wear with that footwear.
Where to Buy Quality Footwear in Kenya
Kenya offers various places to buy quality footwear. Your choice depends on your budget, style preference, and location.
1. Reputable Retail Stores
Several established shoe stores in major cities like Nairobi stock a range of quality brands, both local and international.
Backyard Shoez: Known for comfortable and stylish shoes, including heels, sneakers, flats, and boots. They have multiple physical stores in Nairobi (Kilimani, Westlands, Garden City Mall, Moi Avenue, Kenyatta Avenue) and offer countrywide delivery.
Kicks Kenya: A prominent sneaker store, offering popular international brands like Puma, Nike, Adidas, and Jordan. They have a strong online presence and a physical store in Nairobi.
DOS (Designer Outlet Stores) – Clarks Shoes: If you are looking for classic, comfortable, and durable options, Clarks is a well-known international brand with a presence in Kenya.
Josef Seibel Africa: This brand offers German-quality shoes made in Kenya, including school shoes and various styles for men and women. They focus on comfort and durability.
2. Online Platforms
Online shopping for footwear in Kenya has grown, offering convenience and a wider selection.
Sophie’s Online Shopping: Offers a range of casual, official, sandals, sneakers, and boots. They feature both local and internationally shipped items.
Urban Treks: Provides a wide selection of sneakers and casual footwear with options for same-day delivery in Nairobi and nationwide delivery.
Forstars Footwear: Specializes in various sneaker brands, including Nike, Adidas, Puma, and New Balance, offering competitive prices and delivery across Kenya.
Kenyatalii.com (Tique a Bou): While an online fashion retailer, they also stock a selection of shoes and prioritize customer service with returns and exchanges.
When buying online, verify the retailer’s return policy and read customer reviews to ensure reliability.
3. Local Artisans and Boutiques
Kenya has a growing number of local designers and artisans producing unique, high-quality footwear, often with a focus on sustainable practices.
Enda Sportswear: A Kenyan brand making high-quality running shoes with a focus on social impact and sustainability. Their shoes are designed to promote a midfoot strike and are lightweight and comfortable. They are made in Kenya.
Pine Kazi: This innovative Kenyan startup creates eco-friendly shoes from pineapple leaf waste and recycled rubber. They offer unique designs and focus on sustainability and local production.
Ocean Sole: While known for art pieces, Ocean Sole also upcycles discarded flip-flops into various products, including some footwear. They have a strong environmental and social mission.
Supporting local artisans means you often get unique designs and contribute to the local economy.
Tips for a Smart Footwear Purchase
Define Your Needs: What do you need the shoes for? Everyday wear, office, sports, or special occasions? This helps narrow your choices.
Set a Budget: Quality footwear is an investment. Setting a realistic budget helps you filter options. Remember that a higher upfront cost for a quality shoe can save you money in the long run.
Check Reviews: Before buying, especially online, check customer reviews for feedback on comfort, sizing, and durability.
Understand Return Policies: Know the return and exchange policies, especially when shopping online or from new vendors.
Consider Sustainability: If environmental impact matters to you, look into brands like Enda Sportswear or Pine Kazi that prioritize sustainable materials and production methods.
Care for Your Shoes: Once you buy quality footwear, proper care helps them last. Clean them regularly, use appropriate polishes or protectors, and store them correctly.
Buying quality footwear in Kenya is a straightforward process if you know what to look for and where to shop. By prioritizing material quality, solid construction, and proper fit, you can find shoes that offer comfort, durability, and style, ensuring your feet are happy and well-supported for years to come.
